Hello all of you wonderful people. I hope that you’re having a great weekend!
Today I debut a new blog layout. I liked the former one, but I think this one is more user-friendly. Let me know what you think of it. This blog is still young; so there’s time for it to try on different ‘looks’… (I promise, though, that it won’t become like a teenager who is indecisive about clothing, changing outfits 5 times a day!)
Last night I was so exhausted. I had big plans for dinner of making a fancy meal. When I decided I was too tired for that, I thought it might be easier to go out to eat. But then, I realized that it might be quicker just to cook from home! So I whipped up some artichoke asiago ravioli & broccoli. Then, for ‘dessert’, I tried a pumpkin ale (or 1/3 of one, to be precise.) I very rarely drink… I’m just not usually a fan of the taste of alcohol. I thought this ale might taste more ‘pumpkin-y’, but the flavor was extremely subtle. It was difficult to detect the spices the label announced as well: I had to concentrate really, really closely to try and taste the allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla (or whatever spices were listed on the bottle).
I slept too late to squeeze in an early-morning run/walk, but I ended up getting some good exercise as my husband and I walked and walked and walked to the location of a tailgate party! It was my first one – I’d never been to a tailgate party before. It was super fun to see all of the people setting up their temporary ‘backyards,’ each with its own vibe. There were some great scents wafting from the barbeques (why does meat have to smell so good?!)
In the true spirit of tailgating, the back of our host’s vehicle became the kitchen counter and coffee table as the hatchback was lifted up to display all of the offerings. Happily for me – there was a beautiful selection of fresh fruits and vegetables.
That’s always my favorite appetizer, although I also enjoyed munching on some addicting pico de gallo chips!
We weren’t going to the football game, which gave us more time to hang out and enjoy lunch. Our host grilled us up some excellent veggie burgers. I’d forgotten how much I like the Dr. Preager’s brand. In fact, I didn’t miss the meat at all!
Last night in my incredibly sleepy state, an idea for a dessert popped in my head. I think that I’m going to try and make it later today or tomorrow. Here’s a hint: it combines 2 aspects of different seasonal favorites…
Here’s 2 questions for you: When you’re really tired, do you cook, or go out to eat? Have you ever been to a tailgate party?
Crisp and Verdant 