Blogging Indian

On occasion I check out http://www.adinnerparty.blogspot.com . Well, today I was not disappointed! She gave some fabulous recipes for a Vegetarian Indian Feast that I think sound divine. The funny thing is she starts out saying when she has guests over she usually cooks something with meat, I have recently realized that I tend to cook vegetarian when people come over; not purposefully vegetarian as if to portray that I am against meat, but rather I find the dishes to be a little more exotic and flavorful as vegetarian dishes tend to rely more on interesting spices, shapes and color than when you depend on meat to the be the main thing. Anyway, the Indian Feast menu included:
Mango with spicy salt and sugar
Chutney and goat cheese with aloo paratha
Yellow dal
Indian baked rice
Indian spiced cauliflower and potatoes
Raita
Chai tea

She has yummy looking photos too (not that you would eat the photos themselves, but rather the food in the photos). I plan to make these dishes very soon and will let you know how they turn out. Anyone have a good recipe for homemade Chai Tea?

2 Years Ago Today

This is where I was two years ago today! Thanks Micah for loving me, even when you make me gain weight! (okay so maybe that is the baby's fault, but you still have a part in that too!) I love you babe and look forward to the rest of our lives together. ALL.

Valentine's Day Surprise Revealed

So, I mentioned I would tell you all later what my small surprise was for Micah on Valentine's Day and that long-awaited promise has finally come! It ended up being sadly anti-climactic, and we had a guest in town with us for Valentine's and Micah invited over my brother and his girlfriend. While I LOVE company, I was not necessarily expecting a small party on Valentine's Day, but I went ahead as planned. When I finally told Micah my plan shortly after he told me everyone was coming over, he said "oh, you don't need to do that," to which I replied in a more than slight deflated way, "I went to three grocery stores today for this; it is happening."
I surprised him with what was going to be wine for him (sparking juice for me and baby), cheese, fruit and cracker tray and chocolate fondue with an assortment of deserts and fruits, accompanied by a lovely fire and tea-light candles all over fireplace wall.

Well, I think only me and our out-of-town guest ate the fondue, so I can't entirely say it was well worth the effort as a Valentine's surprise for my valentine, but it is the thought that counts right? Let me tell you too- it was fancy! I had sheep cheese, a specially aged cheddar, and a fig and almond cake for the cheese platter, and then lemon and almond mini biscotis, angel food cake, strawberries, and bananas for the fondue platter. Hopefully my anniversary food will go over a little better.

Homemade

I recently discovered this web-site that I thought I would share with you today. If you are a crafty person (like I dream of being but am not quite), you can list your items for sale on this web-site. The website is http://www.etsy.com/ and they have really creative, unique, beautiful, and often fancy items; everything from bath products, baby products, dresses, buttons...

Here is one I was particularly amazed at.

Please don't mistake my amazement as a willingness to purchase, as unfortunately the image of the Indian on the bust removes that possibility for me (along with the price-tag), but I think it is a brave creation.

My Latest Blog Inspirations

Micah is working all day tomorrow, so we won't be doing anything big for Valentine's Day, at least that he knows of (insert wink here)! In case he reads this, I can't spill the secret just yet. But, I did want to share some fancy ideas with you in the meantime from ideas I gathered and have since evolved in my own head from other fun blogs I like to frequent.


The above are meant to be gift tags, but I thought if they were made a bit larger you could make custom door tags as a gift to your sweetheart. They could contain secret codes which I won't try to make up here, or they could be rather straight to the point "yes, I am in the mood." (That kind of message serves almost as "coupon" too which could be seen as an extra valentine's bonus!)
I recently posted about my ruffled panties as a toddler, to which one of my friends just mailed me a pair of ruffly panties in homage. She is also the friend that knows that "panty" is one of my least favorite words, up there with "convergys". (don't ask me what that is, I just see it on a building and I don't like it). But, these panties are adorable. I don't actually know what they were intended to be, but I thought they would be a great drawer sache' if filled with potpouri for an intimates drawer and would be a perfect gift to girlfriends on Valentine's day.
Okay, so I am now done talking about Valentine's day and am just completely on blog inspirations. A local artist in Tulsa handstitched stuffed felt in various shapes (birds and hearts mostly) onto small painted canvas'. The pic above is similar as is the pic below which comes from my dear friend and fellow-blogger- Kristena.
I have been struggling to come up with art for the hall-bathroom so I decided I would do something similar to these and the canvas idea. I first am going to re-paint the bathroom to a gray before I work on any of the art. So, pics will be forthcoming when I actually get around to this project. For my last blog inspiration (and I need your input on this one!)...

I am almost at the half-way pregnancy point! Or I will be in about 2 weeks. This was her half-way point photo. Any ideas for me? I have been taking pictures every month in the same place and in the same outfit to show the progression of growth, but I would also like to take some fun ones like this at different landmarks like the half-way point, when we find out boy or girl, some with Micah... So, any ideas?

Fancy that!
(thanks to Crista Bacca for the log-off line)

A New Look

I have to resist the temptation to use the word "fancy" in every title for my blog postings, but as you can see I did today! My brother also commented that I should work on some sign-off phrase, so stick around and after a while let me know your favorite.

I recently cut my hair and dyed it dark. To save money while we are trying to make major progress paying off our car and of course save up for baby furniture and items, as well as reduce the amount of chemicals I use on a daily/ monthly basis I am not bleach blonde anymore. In fact, that hair color only lasted for about 6 weeks total, and I loved most every minute of that blondness. Anyway, my hair is dark, with bangs, and well, pretty different than before. I like it for the most part, but I do think I will go back blonde post baby.

My hair inspiration was Jessica Alba. I am not really a fan of her as an actress, but her hair was cute.

Along with my new hair look, I have another recent change. Instead of looking just extra tubby from the holidays that just passed, I am finally starting to look a little more prego! I am not enough to where anyone that does not know my current state, asks me if I am pregnant or "how far along are you!?" or is randomly touching my belly, but I know I will be there before long. I will be trading in one discomfort for the other- looking chubby to stranger belly touches.

Make it a fancy day!

New Blog Inspiration

I read other people's blogs (which is why I started one) and a recent one I was directed to by a Ms. Heather, gave me two inspirations that I am turning into my own:

1. My first inspiration is from this blog posting- the author writes a letter to her daughter every month, and this was her 60th "newsletter" (or her daughter's fifth birthday). I was inspired by this because I thought it was such a neat way to say all the things you internalize about your children that they probably never realize until they are parents themselves. In the past few days I have been thinking that I really need some sort of book right now that tells the stories of how I told our coming child's grandparents that he/she was on the way, and how me and "Daddy" (in quotes because we aren't quite used to it yet) felt when we found out we were pregnant which was hyperventilating for me - on second thought, maybe I will leave that part out. So, I think I am going to start this and write a little note or letter to my soon-to-be child. And, not to be neglected- possibly my husband as well. It is only fair that after a lifetime together, he should have books telling of my constant adoration, admiration and love for him too- although he doesn't read books so that might be a waste of time. I will have to think on that one.

2. Micah and I don't take enough pictures together. In fact we have been really bad about it lately in spite of the fact that we bought a new fancy camera. So, since this is our anniversary month, I am going to make a point of taking a new photo of him or us together every day at least through the end of February. Since this site is dedicated to the everyday things I find fancy, I think I will take this month to fancy my husband, who is with me everyday. (please don't get mad at me for not taking photos from this Friday to Monday though as I am on a business trip and will be separated from him). Of course, I will share these pictures with you too - you may also see a huge belly in some of them.

A "new to me" TV stand

Micah smartly purchased a HD television and stand before ever meeting me knowing that one day when he got married, purchasing that impractical of an item may just not be possible. (fortunately, it is paid off now). The television was sitting on a black and metal three tier stand, which was fine but it also showed all the cables and chords and dust. But then I was inspired by a piece of furniture I saw at Forever 21 that was a bright blue lacquer painted table with ornate details and so began the hunt. I found this 1920's buffet on Craig's List for $50. It was missing some handles and trim work and was also not completely even anymore.

It used to be three long drawers extending the length of the piece until I passed it off to my grandfather. He replaced and repaired some of the original wood, and he also made the middle cupboards, and the sides 3 skinny drawers on each. I then had a really hard time finding the right paint color (of which it still isn't perfect in my opinion), and replaced the handles with some glass ones from Lowe's. And, now I have a statement piece for our living room! It really is one of the first things people comment on whenever they come over, and if we weren't so lazy, the drawers would be a great place to hide the clutter of multiple remotes.



Since this project, I have decided I really like the look of painted wood and now that I am going to be planning a nursery soon, I may start looking on Craig's list again for some paintable items!

Purse Hangers

So, I was looking for some fancy inspiration and Bridget came to the rescue. She recently picked up a purse hanger! You keep this item in your purse and when you go to restaurants, cafes, bars, public restrooms, etc. you set the decorative part on the top of the table, and hang your purse on the bottom hook. This marvelous invention keeps your items from resting on the dirty floors and also keeps it close to you. I was really mad last time I picked my purse up and the bottom was soaking wet- apparently the inventor must have had a similar experience.

They come in a variety of colors and styles, but here was one picture I found online. You can find them in a variety of stores too. So, enjoy clean purses everyone! I wouldn't really recommend this for any males, so sorry if you are a male reader.

A Fancy Excuse

I don't know how to imbed videos into my blog, so I am giving you a link to view this one. I hope it sheds some light on this terrifying condition that seems to be sweeping the nation. Click here to view the video on the contagious obesity virus (it has already affected Jessica Simpson apparently).

Didn't quite get around to it

Okay, so maybe I was too ambitious in my double post day announcement yesterday as you could see the second post didn't quite make it up, but here it is!!! I know that means you are really anxious to see it. Today's post is about something truly fancy- Fancy Nancy.

My dad bought me this GREAT book for Christmas. It is obviously meant for little girls, around 8 years old, but knowing my affinity for fancy things it also suited me quite well. If you have any little girls in your life, I would highly recommend this book! Here is one of my favorite parts, be sure to read the page on top right.

It says, "My family and I like to eat with our pinkies up and call eachother 'darling'."

Here is me demonstrating the pinky finger in my fancy robe after I had read the fancy book.

This books comes with lace, a crown, stickers, hair pins with butterflies and many other fun items!

Double Recipe Day!

So, I have been saving a post for a while, not because it is extra special just because I have not had the time to put it up. So, I thought I would make it a double post day and you will actually get three items! Wow- if only maternity clothes had bargains this good.

I saw this video online and it is a recipe for Steak & Bacon Blue Cheese Wedge Salad. It looks and sounds great. Watch the video by clicking here and get the full recipe.

Now, I will share a recipe I made for friends last weekend. My darling husband wanted us to cook instead of go out, and he even decided what dinner should be. Once again, I don't actually have a name for this recipe and it is only in my head so this will be my attempt at writing it down for you, and my new name for it - well, please send some suggestions.



Lay out 4, 18in. pieces of parchment paper.
Wash and snap the bottoms of 1 bunch asparagus
Cut approx. 3 zuchini in thick diagonal strips that will lay flat
Wash and thick slice 2-3 portabello mushrooms
Salt and Pepper 4 white fish steaks (mahi-mahi, halibut)
Cut 1 red onion in large chunks

Layer all the items in the order listed above in the middle of the parchment paper. Then create a seasoning mix to your taste. I always include garlic, shallots, salt and pepper, and in the pictures shown, I also used zest of 1 orange and half a jalapeno. Mix your seasonings together and then divide evenly over the 4 piles of parchment delight. Dot with butter, fold the parchment paper over to one side and roll the paper up so that it is touching the ingredients in the middle and tight that it will not come undone. Smear some butter on the top of parchment paper in the center. Place on baking sheets and bake at 375 for about 30-40 minutes. You know it is done when the butter on the top of the parchment paper has turned a dark golden brown. Open and serve! (be careful though as major steam will come out when open the paper. Here is what it looks like cooked.

3 Year Old Craft

So, this idea is not three years old, but actually the intended audience of this craft is three years old. Micah and I recently had a slumber party with some dear friends of ours, and the following morning their three year old pulled out a bag of beads and pipe cleaners. She threads the beads and then can create her own necklace, rings, bracelets, Christmas Tree decorations, crown, etc. It was great fun and kept her entertained for long periods of time. I am thinking about purchasing this for my niece for her birthday even though she is 5. I have a feeling this can entertain girls of many ages!

And, not to be completely left out, here is a picture of the darling younger brother.

Brisket

This is one of my all-time favorite meals. Salty, fall-apart brisket with mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. We had this delicious meal over the holidays so I thought I would share it with you. You can make the sides whatever you like so I am just going to give you the recipe for the brisket.

approx. 8 lb. brisket
1 small bottle of Liquid smoke
Soy Sauce - approx. 2 cups soy sauce
Fresh Crushed Garlic - 5 cloves
Lemon Juice - approximately juice from 3 limes
Beef Broth - 2 - 3 cans

Remove lid about half-way through cooking. Cook in a pre-heated oven at 400 for 20 minutes and then 350 for approximately 3-4 hours. The liquid should mostly cover the brisket at the start of cooking and will reduce down a bit over the duration. Also, make the liquid in a pitcher or bowl before putting over the brisket so you can try the sauce before mixing with the raw meat to make sure you like the flavor and adjust accordingly. Enjoy!

A Year in Review

As it is now the first week of 2009, I thought I would do a brief review of last year, and also give you all an idea of a way to start out this year:

From top left to right, some of my highlights of 2008 are -

• Going to Uganda with my husband on a missions trip
• Going to a One Republic concert in St. Louis with friends (us under the arch)
• Good food!
• Find out we are going to have a surprise baby!!!
• Home renovations and decorations continue
• Micah and I's first ever non-school race- the 15k Tulsa Run
• Two of my best friends getting married
• Trip to Chicago
• Work- I did alot of that
• Stopping through New York on our way to Uganda
• Welcoming many new babies this year to friends and family
• This was taken at New Years 2008- the very start of last year! I love being married to Micah.

Last year was great- it had crafting, love, new friends, new family members, many babies, a couple of weddings, alot of really yummy food and drinks, wonderful travel experiences, and some fulfilling work moments too. As I look forward to 2009, I was challenged last night to not only set goals and resolutions for myself for 2009, but to look at the closest person in my life (who for me is my husband Micah) and to offer something that I would like to see come about in his / her life too. Often in life it is easy to become "me" focused, and this is one way of trying to keep others centered, and make sure you are helping others find greatness, fulfillment, and yes, even fancy things in life. It was a fun exercise and prompted good discussion later. So, maybe as you think about your New Year's resolutions, add one or two in for some other people you know that maybe you can help them reach! I wished for great depth and passion for Micah; that he could find more of the richness that life has to offer. (I would plan to start that goal with poetry, but not sure that is really up his alley)

Happy 2009 everyone!