Succulent Garden

What had first appeared to be an overcast chilly day, turned into a warm bright Sunday afternoon. After spending a few hours reading on my deck, I decided it was about time to whip out my green thumb and attempt to plant some succulents into my collection of empty pots. Despite the spiders, thorns and sticky cactus juice, it was an enjoyable and messy experience. I just hope they stay alive!

Touch of Spring

A good friend of mine got me daffodil stems yesterday, that came with a note that said, "if you cut off my stem and place me in fresh water, I can promise you a smile and a touch of Springtime."  And that they did!  I awoke this morning to yellow buds opening up, and I smiled :)

Coffee Trio

I finally finished uploading my photos from my September 2009 trip to New Zealand. It only took me 6 months to buckle down and spend the necessary hours sorting, labeling, uploading, etc. But I am so thrilled that I am done. Next step is to make a coffee table book to print my memories.

But, as I sorted through the 700+ photos, I had to chuckle at the various coffee creations we drank. Outside the USA, coffee has a different meaning. It's a small shot of caffeine, meant for sipping, and the cherry ending to a meal. It's not the grande starbucks mug or the endless refills. In the included picture, we sat at Mondo in Christchurch early in the morning, and I was craving your standard drip coffee. In my sleep deprived grog, I was served their 'attempt' at what I horribly tried to describe (I must have sounded insane). What I was suppose to do with this trio was beyond me. But in the end, it still tasted good!

I write this as I sip on my second ice coffee this morning!

CB2 Firefly Pendant Lamp

It's been quite some time that I have coveted this lamp from CB2. A small ripped out magazine page is tucked inside my planner, tempting me at times to purchase it, despite the lack of somewhere to hang it currently, just beacuse I think it's that rad. Simple, industrial, with a modern flare. Perfect for my larger concept........

Kohler Apron Front Sink

I keep coming back to apron front kitchen sinks - I do enjoy the statement they make.  It is incredible just how many sink models and styles are out there.  After hours perusing the internet, I think I am leaning towards this stainless steal Kohler model.  

Heart Day

Valentine's Day.  A Hallmark creation that results in an overload of red and pink, topped with roses and chocolates.  As much as I do enjoy the ridiculousness of the holiday, I do think that it's the little things that are more endearing.  My attempt, I wanted to bring some schmoopiness to our breakfast by cooking over-easy eggs in heart shaped cut-outs in toast.  It didn't really turn out so well, but the effort was noted!  

Sriracha-Soy Chicken Lettuce Leaves

After an extremely busy day at work and a long rainy commute home, I wanted to whip up something quick and delicious tonight for dinner.  I pulled out a recipe I had ripped out of Bon Appetit from chef, Stuart Brioza, in an article that featured the favorite secret ingredient, Sriracha Sauce.  Being a huge fan of the spicy chile sauce, I was excited to put my own spin on Brioza's recipe.  The result, a quick and delicious meal with quite the zing!  

Sauce:

2 Tablespoons Sriracha Sauce

2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce

2 Tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice

Chicken:

1/2 cup minced green onions

3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce

2 Tablespoons Sriracha Sauce

2 Teaspoons Sugar (I used Splenda)

2 Teaspoons of Fresh Ginger (can use powder ginger)

2 Garlic Cloves, grated

1 Pound Chicken Breast, 1" cubes

Garnishes:

12 Crisp Romaine Lettuce Leaves

6 Radishes trimmed and sliced

1/2 cup fresh Mint leaves

1/2 cup fresh Cilantro leaves

1 cup Jasmine Rice

Marinate chicken, then in a large wok simmer chicken in marinade until fully cooked.  Meanwhile, cook Jasmine rice, chop garnishes and mix sauce.  Arrange garnishes on a large platter leaving room for bowls of chicken, rice and sauce.  Serve to allow guests to fill lettuce leaves and ENJOY!

*Picture from my cell phone 

Super Run in San Diego

Super Run, 5K/10K in San Diego