tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72781823391578728512024-03-05T22:44:54.065-05:00Nerds with ApronsThe domestic pursuits of analytical mindsDPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-67900808012534826862013-09-17T11:18:00.002-04:002013-09-17T11:18:27.727-04:00Baltimore Road Trip ExtravaganzaLiang and I had an adventurous trip to visit some friends who have moved to Baltimore for a medical residency. The drive out wasn't too bad at all (after we got out of Pittsburgh traffic of course). When we got in our friends showed us around their new house, which is super adorable! And OH the rooftop deck :D <br />
Up on the deck they pointed out all their neighbors they've met and told us a little about their neighborhood community, which sounded SO amazing. Apparently, the area they live in is known for the roof top decks - so much fun! I was so happy to hear that they found a nice neighborhood they could fit right into and make fast friends :) and all the activities Mansi is involved with, that girl impresses me to no end! I do not know where she gets the energy, but I could use a serving of it :D<br />
<br />
After the grand tour we walked to Nacho Mama's, where I got to experience a pulled pork quesadilla (which is mouth watering, trust me)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHf0PCPHoSqNgXdQMKeWU5ShLWkL_4Wo_Shhyphenhyphen6q-pZjQK-yFGV8Es9QIMdhoc985pDxtbeP6ExIltLiWa67YZmUR0nOxaPsdwvqv6jbztMTRkXNplvSYPBuKvad-dF8TcHdYIdNn5vPGFy/s1600/photo+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHf0PCPHoSqNgXdQMKeWU5ShLWkL_4Wo_Shhyphenhyphen6q-pZjQK-yFGV8Es9QIMdhoc985pDxtbeP6ExIltLiWa67YZmUR0nOxaPsdwvqv6jbztMTRkXNplvSYPBuKvad-dF8TcHdYIdNn5vPGFy/s320/photo+(7).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Giant, no?</div>
<br />
This puppy not only had the pulled pork, but jalapeno mac n cheese and a couple cheeses within it's crispy tortilla topper. It was a monster, as you can see. To wash it down we were going to try a hub cap margarita, but we arrived after the cut off time to order one. So, instead we ordered the locally popular National Bohemian beer (90% of distribution is in the Baltimore area), otherwise known as Natty Bo. This may be the most fun and interactive beer I have had in a while. Why? Because the cap provides hours of entertainment for drunk people trying to work out the puzzles, plus there's a guy on top with an awesome mustache! haha<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EPsxbCcOPsTmknEyDKSoCC6sNXlCjIBglP09RJZgYaBA72olZYO5FPQ-ZfAld65cQhlajF4HsuhvS0vfz145UFL_SE5-anUatXqdwgPXVL-mt9hqMa2bPTtxt16wJcluCQwyQhqx3uRf/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EPsxbCcOPsTmknEyDKSoCC6sNXlCjIBglP09RJZgYaBA72olZYO5FPQ-ZfAld65cQhlajF4HsuhvS0vfz145UFL_SE5-anUatXqdwgPXVL-mt9hqMa2bPTtxt16wJcluCQwyQhqx3uRf/s320/photo+(6).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am digging the 'stache</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The beer was tasty for a light beer, plus it gets bonus points for being fun. The next morning we got up and went to a local park to walk around and find a place to do our book club. We found the perfect place to enjoy looking at a whole bunch o' ducks (plus a few geese), and shade for my sake haha. It was so nice to be able to enjoy each others company since we hadn't seen them in so long. As I've never been part of a book club before, I wasn't sure what to talk about. But Mansi had discussion questions and I feel more prepared to better participate in the next meeting. Later, we headed out to Little Italy where we had some brick oven pizzas (mouth watering...) and then onto a gem of a place called Vaccaro's. Can I just say the array of Italian desserts was amazing. We got a mix of cookies, a piece of Tiramisu cake, and a chip and dip (cannoli shell chips and cannoli filling) to share. Next visit I will definitely be buying an assortment of cookies and cannoli. <br />
<br />
The Harbor was a happenin' place! All kinds of vendors and people. A neat guy was painting beautiful pictures on all kinds of items, like cardboard and planks of wood. Very artsy :) <br />
I was amazed at the size of the Barnes & Noble at the harbor. The old building was more charming and had more character it seemed like to me than the newer more modern buildings (that's just me).<br />
<br />
That night we got to eat at what Liang was hunting for, and I had heard so much about, blue crab!!!! I have never had it before, but boy is it involved eating haha. I will say that eating with a mallet was way more fun than it should be. I had fun, but it was Liang who destroyed the crabs with superior focus, so she should get all the credit for this table of devastation! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwwRyBDYmxHeESN3HTQ9kqxvPekA4N1ZhJMU410Kv8VOHjrketDsnS0MNFhB8h6N8wiGLCDcwDe82Rghx8fYAJVc27bj8DsmksykFUrriIkTyy_sNB89e1fkm3v3iNhte88j11j3uCGt9X/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwwRyBDYmxHeESN3HTQ9kqxvPekA4N1ZhJMU410Kv8VOHjrketDsnS0MNFhB8h6N8wiGLCDcwDe82Rghx8fYAJVc27bj8DsmksykFUrriIkTyy_sNB89e1fkm3v3iNhte88j11j3uCGt9X/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm glad I got to experience that, with a professional :)<br />
<br />
The next morning we got up and went to a famous breakfast place, Blue Moon Cafe, and (very patiently) waited in line so we could experience the food that everyone has been talking about. I got the captain crunch french toast, which is topped with whipped cream and fresh cut fruit. I didn't even need syrup - it tasted so good (thinking about it is making my mouth water just a little bit!) Liang got her fill of crab by ordering the Maryland Eggs Benedict, which is Eggs Benedict with lump crab meat. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcZK41VsawUy77yK_6s6Z3yG5xbW2jpeMMqndjLUgFad3cU73XQJy4Ez6T5v-ZBqT_KTiimte2giPCTaC8XQuVSZOIvCuNTwz9qQASzjwEtXa7Q11dOdnajHjXcLHN4kUpcAZ7SdDitQj/s1600/photo+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcZK41VsawUy77yK_6s6Z3yG5xbW2jpeMMqndjLUgFad3cU73XQJy4Ez6T5v-ZBqT_KTiimte2giPCTaC8XQuVSZOIvCuNTwz9qQASzjwEtXa7Q11dOdnajHjXcLHN4kUpcAZ7SdDitQj/s320/photo+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delicious :)</div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Soon after breakfast we headed out back to Pittsburgh, but the drive wasn't too bad on the way back either. Once we returned, Michael took a picture of us to remember our happiness at the end of our voyage (I must have been tired with my eyes closed and all hehe). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqSvs9SZUEjZUSQSzh-HzJMJbg0pXOL6nG0kdblJPaBCGmm_xFTfW34t5G2aaHRwAh4DFKUg4UylO4wlqiTpRR-6sLMya_d-nkdbfmI-jN5abTcktaBO7GVEkfNUx-kxWerjEYE-Sknx2/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqSvs9SZUEjZUSQSzh-HzJMJbg0pXOL6nG0kdblJPaBCGmm_xFTfW34t5G2aaHRwAh4DFKUg4UylO4wlqiTpRR-6sLMya_d-nkdbfmI-jN5abTcktaBO7GVEkfNUx-kxWerjEYE-Sknx2/s320/image.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Our trip was fantastic and I can't express enough how awesome it was to see our friends and hear about how they're doing. I can only hope next year rolls around and that David and I do half as well in adjusting to our new city as well. We already have our next traveling book club meeting tentatively planned, so when they come visit us, Liang and I will have our work cut out for us to make the trip as much fun as we had, but we can't wait!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-86350512027705953302013-05-06T22:07:00.000-04:002013-05-06T22:07:25.098-04:00Marathon Relay 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8715262735/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0323 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0323" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7354/8715262735_b8c1e9e429.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This year, we decided to do the marathon relay! The sun was out, all of Pittsburgh was out to cheer the runners on, and we finished the marathon in 4:07:51!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks to all our family and friends who came out to support us! </span><br />
<br />
<br />DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-27891379573134427892013-02-17T19:08:00.000-05:002013-02-17T19:08:38.258-05:00Iron Chef PittsburghDavid and I love cooking shows, which is why I enjoy Food Network so much! Liang and I recently did an experiment and all I could think of while we were doing it was a running narration of an Iron Chef episode. So as <strike>crazy</strike> different as that may be, I thought I'd share with you our experiment but embellish it with what was going through my mind as we were working :)<br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
Ohayōgozaimasu! (Good Morning!) Welcome to Iron Chef Pittsburgh where we have an interesting food challenge here at Liang's Kitchen Stadium, where tensions are running high. The two chef's are waiting patiently for the secret dish to be revealed to them. The challenger is chef Pillsbury and the reigning iron chef that will be challenged is iron chef Liang. A hush falls over the kitchen arena as the secret dish is revealed. The secret dish for this challenge will be . . . <strong>BATTLE CINNAMON ROLLS! </strong><br />
<br />
So now Pittsburgh, with an open heart and an empty stomach, I say to yinz in the words of my uncle:<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtVZfmowejXQ87yMmFgygJvzOQHeDvuYFizggnH0BAxafzTzIznsnOG9kyvj83jiEMfZfMoLHvaczs0rZ2jk6EqvIsMHgXn5blWPYCIR8L4VasLHppeUrZZL8jZVy3gWH11ZoHS7GCOwoV/s1600/iron-chef-america-chairmain-marc-Dacascos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtVZfmowejXQ87yMmFgygJvzOQHeDvuYFizggnH0BAxafzTzIznsnOG9kyvj83jiEMfZfMoLHvaczs0rZ2jk6EqvIsMHgXn5blWPYCIR8L4VasLHppeUrZZL8jZVy3gWH11ZoHS7GCOwoV/s320/iron-chef-america-chairmain-marc-Dacascos.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">"Allez Cuisine"!</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div align="left">
As the clock starts, the chefs rush to start their baking. Challenger chef Pillsbury has an advantage as she furiously begins to peel open the tube of her refrigerated cinnamon rolls and slamming it against the table's edge in an attempt to open it. It seems she will be relying on the refrigerated variety of cinnamon rolls that Pillsbury is so famous for. </div>
<div align="left">
OH! It seems she's having difficulty getting the tube open. On the second try she gets it open. Messy business using tubed rolls, as it can be difficult to get them open. </div>
<div align="left">
But iron chef Liang isn't fazed and as she smiles, she revealed that she too was prepared for this challenge by pulling out a risen yeast dough for her rolls. What a turn of events! This battle just got interesting with a baking powder based rising dough vying against a hearty and flavorful yeast dough. Both chefs bend over their work intently as sugar and cinnamon flies through the air. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
Now is a good time to introduce the judges for this challenge. First we have David, who is a well rounded experienced food critic. His expertise for the most part lies in enjoying anything that comes out of the home kitchen. Our second judge is Michael, who is also an experienced food critic who also enjoys home cooking, but who has had more experience with international cuisine. These judges will be tough to please with their combined experience, but both of these chefs are known for pleasing the crowds. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
Back to the kitchen arena. Chef Pillsbury has arranged her rolls in the pan expertly to allow them to expand just right while baking to create the most tender rolls possible. While using these prepared cinnamon rolls will always result in consistent results, it's difficult because there isn't much opportunity to improve the flavor. So, chef Pillsbury is relying on pleasing the judges with the tried and true flavor that these rolls come packaged with. Things are looking good for her in this regard since since these have been a popular convenience breakfast food since they were created and made available in grocery stores across the country. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qCNcaB4z_hMtMbUZPY6JxgJv4mLXNSVwBTXVTDmr3VjGjDwrZPhuhBTtCkl5F7BCgkFwfMQtNgQtkS_hVYuG4Fgxx2wbfgFvM6wKsSE3hUaQCW2MTz2ef9WP0qnt9Xp5Rh6oRxXRM6Zu/s1600/IMG_5954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qCNcaB4z_hMtMbUZPY6JxgJv4mLXNSVwBTXVTDmr3VjGjDwrZPhuhBTtCkl5F7BCgkFwfMQtNgQtkS_hVYuG4Fgxx2wbfgFvM6wKsSE3hUaQCW2MTz2ef9WP0qnt9Xp5Rh6oRxXRM6Zu/s320/IMG_5954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
Iron chef Liang has more work cut out for her since she is taking the longer route and using a yeast based dough for her dish. This is risky business for her in this challenge, as it takes longer to prepare and requires a rising time before baking. However, this strategy could pay off for her in the end by resulting in a bakery fresh roll packed full of yeasty flavor giving her an edge in this taste competition. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HrJR6tFz5geN7Jfl7SPwTdKYG1HASFjE92aRsAeZstZF74EQgt7sHl1TQdQSg8BF7pYd9p8mMf1p2IXP2H1DgRwDUT32hUCn-8TGKZHXhYBRycbnW_B2r4uBrzbFXzb9BneDUz1S89ZF/s1600/IMG_5950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HrJR6tFz5geN7Jfl7SPwTdKYG1HASFjE92aRsAeZstZF74EQgt7sHl1TQdQSg8BF7pYd9p8mMf1p2IXP2H1DgRwDUT32hUCn-8TGKZHXhYBRycbnW_B2r4uBrzbFXzb9BneDUz1S89ZF/s320/IMG_5950.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglgWRYMpYO_NfqF7amRv5XUaGQTeMbGhdTeKnWWzXzFea1IKnFD74YoAWsrRhspVtQhjPrn8R86I8ee0a_Czf0_1XdVDubnoach5TAE6SYkYsT0sFxDxhqGleD1nlIZGYKKimaUcmtozSV/s1600/IMG_5951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglgWRYMpYO_NfqF7amRv5XUaGQTeMbGhdTeKnWWzXzFea1IKnFD74YoAWsrRhspVtQhjPrn8R86I8ee0a_Czf0_1XdVDubnoach5TAE6SYkYsT0sFxDxhqGleD1nlIZGYKKimaUcmtozSV/s320/IMG_5951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
An interesting thing about cinnamon rolls, there is a version of it referred to as the Honey Bun. It is essentially a cinnamon roll that is fried instead of baked, but with a fun twist of being a popular food item for jails and prisons. Since typical prison/jail food is pretty bland, these are delicacies for prisoners! (Way to go Wikipedia!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The ovens are heated and the rolls are baking! Now this competition is nearly out of their hands. Chef Pillsbury can now sit back and relax while her rolls bake since they come with a pre-made packet of glaze. However, iron chef Liang has to create a glaze to compliment her rolls, so she sets to work with a bowl and a whisk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The rolls are out of the oven! Chef Pillsbury seems pleased with her rolls, they look like they usually do (left picture below). Iron chef Liang's rolls look over sized and just like the bakery ones, plump and full of flavor (right picture below). We will see how the judges like the rolls :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSVnHbZFcZhctPoVn-NSvean5998TOLnmHSiV4VDGwafpm0X2lFrxsQXSQVKMVJs5xu9c_RI1ZjywhwavzUvFohhbzfZZXCvd1wWQB6JHl7GsAro5sdGX-sY0PO719a79x4iVKHVP4evG/s1600/IMG_5956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSVnHbZFcZhctPoVn-NSvean5998TOLnmHSiV4VDGwafpm0X2lFrxsQXSQVKMVJs5xu9c_RI1ZjywhwavzUvFohhbzfZZXCvd1wWQB6JHl7GsAro5sdGX-sY0PO719a79x4iVKHVP4evG/s200/IMG_5956.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOY5UHeIYP0PR3sakNzG0UxKCLQLpIi4YTIT4_7exr0tL9RptJGtHhRvoTL_sUOIjSu0YkkXTnwQaqeEMHEy_Jt0fmvsaBizuiRlQujb915gbcfChFRYE-lp9o4sckKo1df2Y4t6kxu20o/s1600/IMG_5955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOY5UHeIYP0PR3sakNzG0UxKCLQLpIi4YTIT4_7exr0tL9RptJGtHhRvoTL_sUOIjSu0YkkXTnwQaqeEMHEy_Jt0fmvsaBizuiRlQujb915gbcfChFRYE-lp9o4sckKo1df2Y4t6kxu20o/s200/IMG_5955.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Both judges are keeping a poker face while tasting. After the evaluation they have come to an unanimous decision. With bated breath the chefs await the ruling. The winner is, coming out with a perfect score . . . . . . . . . <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>IRON CHEF LIANG!!!</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Chef Pillsbury congratulates iron chef Liang and gracefully accepts defeat. The kitchen stadium's reigning champion seems to have pulled off another win!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In an interview after the judging, both judges agreed that chef Pillsbury's cinnamon rolls came out with a consistent flavor like they always have, but that iron chef Liang's rolls came out with a pleasing tender flaky texture that had a delicious flavor that melted in your mouth. They also revealed that they both felt that chef Pillsbury's rolls had a chemical aftertaste that was displeasing to the palate, which (let's be real) is a result of using dough in a TUBE.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKgrsmNeR1nCmsZ7LiTea_afpYBIvLLRLLlMJdVTg0Tk6V2OzoZxiAFSFvVpJZI1NgM_fs9fROaH1nyaTm2jBRUXsgu7Y1K3VpGbKInpPRFHtbwYh7gH-UKprsK1KbmtAKnn4VK8Y9NuM/s1600/IMG_5958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKgrsmNeR1nCmsZ7LiTea_afpYBIvLLRLLlMJdVTg0Tk6V2OzoZxiAFSFvVpJZI1NgM_fs9fROaH1nyaTm2jBRUXsgu7Y1K3VpGbKInpPRFHtbwYh7gH-UKprsK1KbmtAKnn4VK8Y9NuM/s320/IMG_5958.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There you have it folks, it seems a homemade yeast dough, plenty of brown sugar and cinnamon galore will always come out on top when compared to a tube of rolls you bring to the arena from the refrigerated section of your friendly neighborhood grocery store. But fair warning fellow Pittsburgher's, if you have <em>'the sugars'</em> this may not be the food item for you. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtVZfmowejXQ87yMmFgygJvzOQHeDvuYFizggnH0BAxafzTzIznsnOG9kyvj83jiEMfZfMoLHvaczs0rZ2jk6EqvIsMHgXn5blWPYCIR8L4VasLHppeUrZZL8jZVy3gWH11ZoHS7GCOwoV/s1600/iron-chef-america-chairmain-marc-Dacascos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4KoxdmKIy5rTByT-cZA9TEjjr7n-q7UT4pxkJ5nSPjp4A-8E64QFs-46ve20z6NYVVtRaPQJuwWefeWuliDTe6Llpb3s-eT7br6hyc18epQ6agOcu6iNO0P8JfqzlNyuD52NOr_0BlV4F/s1600/IMG_5949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-73032512897911374522013-01-07T22:02:00.004-05:002013-01-07T22:02:49.717-05:00Tis the Season, or it Was AnywaysWell I have been negligent in my blogging this Christmas season. I guess I got caught up in all the things that go into the Christmas season. I participated in baking cookies for local nursing homes again this year and can I let you in on a nasty secret I've discovered? Ovens all around the world have been lying to all of us for years. <br />
<br />
Let me start at the beginning. I sat down and figured out everything I wanted to make, made a list of ingredients and bought those ingredients. When I finally mustered the gumption to start this baking bonanza I went to my oven and started preheating it. Six minutes later the oven cheerfully beeps at me letting me know it was hot and ready to help. LIAR!<br />
<br />
Apparently those 6 minutes of "preheating" are really my ovens way of telling me "thanks for giving me some time. I've thought about it and I've decided I will warm up for you, but it's going to be another 30 minutes before I'm at temperature." Thank goodness for my oven thermometer, otherwise I may have had some undercooked cookies and ended up with the collywobbles (Brave anyone?)<br />
<br />
Despite my unwilling and hesitant oven, I made over 10 dozen cookies/biscotti before Christmas, along with all the blueberry jam and apple butter I gave out this year! (see picture below, but imagine stacks and stacks of jars) I was very happy, and I hope the recipients were as well :)<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSA1oSQEpIxXunknrn3bqOxHI9_trcB8SDf6QR2BfSR3mga8GWVJVrbUwBR6sc9UWHcngfUI4iGEISpNFsRh2jhFkIqkZimlhIjVZeu6xO33INtnLRuBf2uHreq6zSdkMQ8wKOylSvv1xU/s320/076.JPG" width="320" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Also, before I finish this much belated post I have to say just how great I think Liang's post is about 5 years and counting. It's all too rare to see a couple reach that point and I am so happy to see them going strong! David and I definitely feel lucky to have both of them in our lives as close friends, and we can only hope to be as happy as they are come our 5th year wedding anniversary. There's an Irish saying that I thought they'd both appreciate:<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
May those who love us, love us</div>
<div align="center">
and those who don't love us, may God turn their hearts</div>
<div align="center">
and if He doesn't turn their hearts, may he turn their ankles</div>
<div align="center">
so we can recognize them from their limp.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
:) I've always found great wisdom in that one hehe. <br />
<br />
But on a more serious note, I just want to toast to them (with my hypothetical adult bev) and say here's to you both! May the next 5 years be just as wonderful and joy filled as these past 5 have been!Slainte!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-68572776592503436112012-12-31T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-31T06:00:03.088-05:00Five and counting<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8313838407/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG_0234 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0234" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8223/8313838407_70bfe33d7e.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken by David Svilar, copyright 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been a long road together, as relationships often are, but I'm glad to report that on this day, we're celebrating 11 years and 7 months since we first shyly clasped hands as bright-eyed youngsters and started on this journey of life together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Exactly five years ago, the journey shifted to a different and new phase--some might say a more serious phase--but the truth is we've been traveling the same road all along. The marriage certificate was only a formality and symbol of the commitment we already made to each other long before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So here's to the innumerable years ahead, hands still clasped tightly, of walking on the road together. Hopefully somewhere along the way there might be an extra hand, or a few hands, to join our family. But even if not, hey, we know we'll always have plenty of furry paws and plenty of friends to share the road along the way. And of course, we'll always have each other.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy five years, my chuck.*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8313917097/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG_0408 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0408" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8072/8313917097_ab5f49df0d.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken by David Svilar, copyright 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Macbeth, anyone?</span>DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-85135694564720720122012-12-23T11:53:00.000-05:002012-12-23T11:55:58.280-05:00Ramen in Pittsburgh: Taste Test at Last!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8299886663/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="ramen 3 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="ramen 3" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8299886663_b4eaa16750.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
After months of waiting and two failed attempts to eat at the newest Asian-cuisine addition to Pittsburgh, we <i>finally</i> scored our bowls of noodles last night!<br />
<br />
I ordered a miso-base ramen that had one large chunk of stewed (chashu) pork and a bunch of bean sprouts. I also added a soft-center egg. It was great. The noodles were chewy and plentiful, the egg yolk was wonderfully unctuous, the meat was tender and very generously sized, and there was plenty of soup to slurp.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8299886985/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="ramen 2 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="ramen 2" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8363/8299886985_3ff1be77ab.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Michael opted for a soy sauce based soup with wontons. He had five wontons, a decently sized piece of tender white meat pork, and plenty of slightly pickled bamboo shoots. He enjoyed it and gives it 3.5 truffles out of 5 truffles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8299886389/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="ramen by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="ramen" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8498/8299886389_c754583103.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So would we go back and recommend it to others? I would say yes and yes, but with an asterisk. We wouldn't necessarily frequent it very often as a random weekend dinner, as it is indeed a bit pricey ($9-10) for an-only-slightly-better bowl of noodle soup than we could make at home with frozen ramen kits from the Japanese grocery store (~$4, serves 2).<br />
<br />
But it would be a fun experience with friends, good amount of food for the price, and they have some wild crazy ramen choices that you can't get from the grocery store (e.g. kimchi ramen, curry ramen). Unlike many Yelp reviewers, I think the amount of meat they give you is really quite tasty and generous (obviously those reviewers haven't eaten at noodle establishments in Asia where they only give you a few super thin slices of meat per bowl of noodles). And it really isn't that much more expensive in price than noodle bowls at other Asian restaurants, like Vietnamese pho. <br />
<br />
Next time, curry ramen!DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-35347106395883753362012-10-26T15:47:00.000-04:002012-12-20T17:01:53.665-05:00No Whey - We Made Cheese!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8165268218/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="photo(1) by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="photo(1)" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8203/8165268218_ac7bdd669d.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I will admit, my title made me laugh which means you now know my big secret - I'm pretty lame :)<br />
But I am getting off topic, so we had quite the adventure the other day: early Christmas present, delicious food and intriguing spreads! Liang came over bringing her surprise which turned out to be the neatest thing - a cheese making kit. Not only was it a magical dairy transformer package, but it was a MEGA magical transformer kit because it lets you make several different kinds of cheeses! But Liang had more in store for me because she pulled out 2 quarts (her purse was like Mary Poppin's bag I swear) of goat milk and a huge grin on her face when she informed me that we were going to make cheese! Yum. Again she reached into her purse and pulled out 2 more goodies, a fig butter and an olive tapenade that would pair wonderfully with the cheese. I kid you not, I was drooling. <br />
<br />
We set to work sterilizing everything, heating up the milk and adding the citric acid when needed, cheese salt, and brought everything to temperature. The only time we faltered was when we were ready for the curds but we weren't sure how fine was okay to work with. Needless to say a few extra pinches of citric acid later we decided to take our chances and let it drain through the cheesecloth and see what we got. It was a bit tricky lining the colander with the cheesecloth and pouring in the curds and whey but we managed it - slowly! After draining we put it in the little draining mold the kit came with and placed the sack-o-cheese curds we had created into it and topped it with a can of pinto beans to weight it. Finally after 30 excruciatingly difficult 30 minutes we were able to unveil our creation. We peeled off the cheesecloth from the sides and revealed a beautiful and perfect 1/2 lb goat cheese.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8165268032/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="photo by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="photo" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7263/8165268032_3f9146aab5.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
You can be sure that we savored this little white block of heaven with the tasty fig butter and olive tapenade. I know I definitely ate more than I should have, but I figure dairy is good for me because it helps ward off osteoporosis - so I was <i>really </i>investing in my future by indulging in this delightful treat hehe. YES I am aware that I'm deluding myself but I am perfectly okay with that :) That is my story and I am sticking to it (besides, that's why we run during the week, right?) Now don't get carried away, we didn't eat the WHOLE 1/2 lb of cheese (geez!) Most of it is saved for David's party this weekend, so maybe you'll get a chance to try it!Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-90384506411333998362012-10-15T12:29:00.000-04:002012-12-20T17:02:03.858-05:00Kanelbulle!!Since our recent visit to the Fall Foliage Festival all I have been able to think about is treats that I love to eat when the weather turns. And since I love to eat said treats so much I have to try and make them a little healthier at least to justify my gorging on them :) So I thought I would share one recipe I make that I REALLY enjoy (and I think Liang and Michael have too) and look forward to making soon. Unfortunately, I have been too busy to make this just yet - but I will be doing it soon! (I have a hankering for them so it has to be soon ha ha)<br />
<br />
I was curious and found a fun fact about cinnamon rolls - the first cinnamon roll was baked in Sweden on October 4th, and there it is now known as National Cinnamon Bun Day. These delicious buns are called "kanelbulle" there, but they are known as delicious everywhere I know. <br />
<br />
<b>Cinnamon Rolls</b><br />
<br />
I would like to say these are at least a tiny bit healthier (or maybe its my personal bias) and certainly tastier than their store bought brethren that come in a can that you have to slam against a counter to get to pop open. These puppies are more like when you wake up from a dream and you smell delicious bread baking in the oven, the caramelizing sugar, the yeasty bread smell . . . sorry I'm starting to salivate a little . . . well I didn't wake up to this today, but you can imagine what I'm talking about. <br />
<br />
**These rolls freeze wonderfully, and can be reheated in the microwave or oven. You can also prep the dough the night before, just make sure it comes to room temperature before you proceed. <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>3 1/4 tsp dry active yeast (about 1 1/2 packages)</li>
<li>1/4 c warm water</li>
<li>1 tsp sugar</li>
<li>1/2 c shortening</li>
<li>1/3 c sugar</li>
<li>1 1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li>1 c milk</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>4 1/2 - 5 c flour, sifted (I use bread flour)</li>
<li>melted butter</li>
<li>brown sugar</li>
<li>cinnamon</li>
</ul>
1. Add warm water, sugar and yeast together and let sit 10 minutes, or until frothy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h_rfevF2WeaFqt3Rzva6O-A1m62xIWFWLCbUOX77BVPjzA0SNGMLifnqE_FJDKpWNkUW0mvun1Xc1dtxIfFmdwEYeRQjkV4j0YtBfhDq9yKD51yN4C5NMip5wvWPyfwGuQodej2MYr1V/s1600/Cinnamon+Rolls+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h_rfevF2WeaFqt3Rzva6O-A1m62xIWFWLCbUOX77BVPjzA0SNGMLifnqE_FJDKpWNkUW0mvun1Xc1dtxIfFmdwEYeRQjkV4j0YtBfhDq9yKD51yN4C5NMip5wvWPyfwGuQodej2MYr1V/s320/Cinnamon+Rolls+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
2. Scald the milk; pour over the shortening. Add sugar and salt and then let cool to tepid. <br />
3. Add the yeast mix and beaten egg to the tepid liquid. Then add 4 cups of flour adding one at a time beating after each addition. <br />
4. Dough should be soft yet firm enough to handle. Knead it until it's elastic and smooth. Avoid using too much flour because the finished product will be a dry, tough bread. Turn into a well oiled bowl and let rise 1 1/2 hours. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlRH_foLNJKkFti9ygNL6a7Fiuqq_qSsPCHzeB3oXpbtfo4hJ-pflK_eZPrg6WxnnoFw8FJv1isVpfuT6nbeHKTSu6MWH9dXNU4DS2xHhdUyauxnwP42m8u6jis1VLw_cxWtu2YooO7Va/s1600/Cinnamon+Rolls+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlRH_foLNJKkFti9ygNL6a7Fiuqq_qSsPCHzeB3oXpbtfo4hJ-pflK_eZPrg6WxnnoFw8FJv1isVpfuT6nbeHKTSu6MWH9dXNU4DS2xHhdUyauxnwP42m8u6jis1VLw_cxWtu2YooO7Va/s320/Cinnamon+Rolls+6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
5. Press dough down and divide into a workable size. Roll dough into a rectangle. Cover with some melted butter and then layer on a generous layer of brown sugar (a good one is 1/4" or more thick of sugar). Sprinkle on the cinnamon to preference and roll up jelly roll fashion. <br />
6. Cut off slices from the roll that are approx. 1 1/2" thick using unflavored waxed floss (trust me this is easier than trying to cut with a knife). Place the slices in a greased pan, giving them all a little room because they are going to rise!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzGRPBIkJLmwkPJ7ERqrN1EmWBCrYttoVRC-SN0RrT9q6boQ5VERYrpnWZ1kNYiA3q8slgupy6UyZWB40HEi3Oh23mw9wpBrTwpMISZJRnwRzqQxB7tD9OnYufE34m39CLCSNmx9M-y4E9/s1600/Cinnamon+Rolls+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzGRPBIkJLmwkPJ7ERqrN1EmWBCrYttoVRC-SN0RrT9q6boQ5VERYrpnWZ1kNYiA3q8slgupy6UyZWB40HEi3Oh23mw9wpBrTwpMISZJRnwRzqQxB7tD9OnYufE34m39CLCSNmx9M-y4E9/s320/Cinnamon+Rolls+7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
7. Let them rise until they fill the pan generously, about another 1 hour. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAPUulkGjbqg5Uco7KpBmbcj8MgTw-H1g6OVyAjmh_9Riyif6RvJCXGaqWXqo3l-uk5UTAl46DmKAcBm9hgDQQ3zy91UGGvSSDDxRQnEzFjt6PZGCajZ0QgQM72tnwH9GGPb6kwnp_qoqT/s1600/Cinnamon+Rolls+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAPUulkGjbqg5Uco7KpBmbcj8MgTw-H1g6OVyAjmh_9Riyif6RvJCXGaqWXqo3l-uk5UTAl46DmKAcBm9hgDQQ3zy91UGGvSSDDxRQnEzFjt6PZGCajZ0QgQM72tnwH9GGPb6kwnp_qoqT/s320/Cinnamon+Rolls+8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
8. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden on top. If they get too brown, cover them with a piece of foil until they're done. Don't over bake them!<br />
9. Remove immediately from pan by inverting them onto a plate and then use another plate to right them. OR you can just serve them out of the pan to people :) Now for the glaze!<br />
<br />
Glaze:<br />
<ul>
<li> 1 c powdered sugar</li>
<li>1/2 c (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature</li>
<li>1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li>
</ul>
1. Mix cream cheese, sugar, butter and vanilla in medium bowl until smooth. Spread the glaze on rolls after they've cooled to just warm - unless you really like your glaze runny, then have at it!<br />
<br />
I have had customers at my work beg me to bring it in every week since I first made them, so you can be assured they're at least good enough to give a chance. (Of course I don't make them every week, otherwise I'd NEVER finish a 10K race Gangnam style or not...)Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-11393932653497104412012-10-15T08:07:00.002-04:002012-10-15T09:26:49.085-04:00Bedford Fall Festival 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8089910777/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5256 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5256" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8187/8089910777_8e12eb83ee.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A few weeks ago, we trekked out to Bedford to attend the 48th annual Bedford Fall Foilage Festival. We really lucked out on the weather, and it ended up being a cool 50-some degree cloudy day that held off on the rain until we were leaving. Score!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">So we wandered around for a few hours, taking in all the sights and tastes, and loading up on treats to haul back for our husbands' enjoyment!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8089912856/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5258 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5258" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8332/8089912856_a67ed9af00.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Of course we had to get some fair food! Liang got a buffalo burger with peppers and onions, which she wolfed down too quickly before a picture could be obtained. Shannon enjoyed a gigantic and tasty gyro (pictured above) and we shared the humongous order of cheese fries. We'd originally planned on getting some sweets like funnel cake, but after all that food, we found ourselves too stuffed for dessert!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">So we collected dessert to bring home instead. We picked up some cinnamon roasted almonds (there were stands everywhere and they smelled so good!), fudge, caramel corn, and apple dumplings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8089912684/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5260 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5260" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8047/8089912684_133b3ae50f.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Also we found the fresh cider press! Shannon had promised to take a gallon home, so we waited in line patiently as these guys worked at a furious pace at this old-timey cider press. You can see the pile of apple mush on the pickup truck in the background. While we waited, we sipped on some hot spiced cider they were selling by the cup on the side. So tasty and warming on the chilly day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8089943318/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5264 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5264" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8470/8089943318_048c20f902.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We can't wait to go back next year! It's such a large event, full of interesting sights and yummy food!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">And lastly, Liang's trophy finds on this trip:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/debakingpsychopath/8089910173/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5273 by DPLK, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5273" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8089910173_a74597a3ea.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cookie cutters! Especially the BUFFALO cookie cutter! Woohoo! You can bet you'll be seeing some cut out cookies in the near future with some of these beauties!</span>DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-74907112216314492792012-10-07T21:52:00.000-04:002012-10-08T16:24:04.052-04:00Evidence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6wwBddMJgGw4vWJxxov6TMomu1iKA_sQlPBtGrrrv_xdCfZwP7SRuNXaELwv8o9M7EtP_kS-2AvyhXAQMNqJUEvunl2QAV5vxZL8nevFcaEYIBhLPBPAz425pAgzWGf2olOUCuSa4F4M/s1600/IMG_0439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6wwBddMJgGw4vWJxxov6TMomu1iKA_sQlPBtGrrrv_xdCfZwP7SRuNXaELwv8o9M7EtP_kS-2AvyhXAQMNqJUEvunl2QAV5vxZL8nevFcaEYIBhLPBPAz425pAgzWGf2olOUCuSa4F4M/s400/IMG_0439.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">This is what happens when I have yarn out at home: cats chewing on yarn, ignoring all other indignities, including being wrapped in a scarf. </span>DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-85716444949761806842012-10-06T13:35:00.003-04:002012-10-08T16:23:51.909-04:00Arts & Crafts<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">No longer is this reserved for summer camp or an easy A in school. At this point in our lives, Liang and I and have found craft time as a stress free time to spend together enjoying an entertaining podcast (or two hehe) and a creative outlet for the weeks stresses. Also, Liang has been able to claim refuge in my apartment to protect her yarn from her cats. I haven't been able to witness said cats stalking their prey (the yarn), but from how it's been described this is what I imagine they look like. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgWVQGfztEOVqiEYnuUtMF49gD6tv4IwbqGDuDjpJOjzI0kS9r1z0uRqCqLkcKYny9uUx8QZWTErVjlr3CMHHVZbU2cLXf_9PPyKxicGefeP3toWLFgpdjX0nF_94hmk6jl8JU7kV3osG/s1600/updates_37_3414819527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgWVQGfztEOVqiEYnuUtMF49gD6tv4IwbqGDuDjpJOjzI0kS9r1z0uRqCqLkcKYny9uUx8QZWTErVjlr3CMHHVZbU2cLXf_9PPyKxicGefeP3toWLFgpdjX0nF_94hmk6jl8JU7kV3osG/s400/updates_37_3414819527.jpg" width="327" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Random picture from a Google search</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I can see it in his eyes - he's just waiting for his owner to drop their guard so he can attack the yarn! At least that's how it plays out in my mind. Apparently there's no negotiating with these yarn terrorists - our only choice was to hide :)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">Liang's blanket is going to look so good, judging by the soft and pretty squares she's made so far. I just want to bury my face in the blanket (but I won't - I promise). So, I needed to pick up an artistic hobby, so I decided on quilling (or Paper Filigree). Basically, as long as I can roll paper strips and manipulate the coils into different shapes I am golden. So far I have been able to create some pretty neat looking cards and I'm enjoying it so I feel like it's a win. Although, I'll have to start using them as the cards I send to family for occasions, otherwise I'll just be a weird lady with a bunch of unused cards in their house. . . yeah, I better start doing that. If I'm going to be that strange lady on someones street, I want to collect something much more strange than cards, because I figure if you're going to do that you may as well be interesting. </span></span>
Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-18850795602836650282012-10-04T20:26:00.000-04:002012-10-05T10:07:22.884-04:002012 Great Race!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70Sul5C3vfZojx3wZHlsSJfWmV7FMDiVy271tpz2yvao6scBS5QglIsSIaM9XmL8K55yfuDwoJWeiQlWMm7s3_V0njselxFPA2UdNz8iQ1p9f60M7iHqfnT_qXHDUnQmejVtvp9Lp36Ow/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70Sul5C3vfZojx3wZHlsSJfWmV7FMDiVy271tpz2yvao6scBS5QglIsSIaM9XmL8K55yfuDwoJWeiQlWMm7s3_V0njselxFPA2UdNz8iQ1p9f60M7iHqfnT_qXHDUnQmejVtvp9Lp36Ow/s400/photo.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pre-race (still clean)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">Well, we ran the Great Race this year! After our respective half-marathons in May (one of us ran the Pittsburgh one, the other did the Cleveland one), we have been doing short races to keep ourselves motivated to keep a training regimen going. Can't let that hard-earned muscle mass atrophy away!</span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">All in all, we haven't been training too hard, but we figured 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) is COMPLETELY doable compared to a half-marathon (13.1 miles)!! So other than making sure to get a few short running workouts in each week, and keeping a close eye on types of foods before the race (less caffeine, less fiber), we sort of winged it.</span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FXrJl54PALEsCsjlAH6njXqqnP8LuaGPmcHTJoyNcEZn79cEX4XCGaRqoRQgvKIz1vQM25VUw8-gMC8LeZ5aBul-4BSLdgtI1mzLFM3Hy2ONyE_Kd6yLZQpTeJQslAvDwIMfiYUVLFfL/s1600/cap'n+america.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FXrJl54PALEsCsjlAH6njXqqnP8LuaGPmcHTJoyNcEZn79cEX4XCGaRqoRQgvKIz1vQM25VUw8-gMC8LeZ5aBul-4BSLdgtI1mzLFM3Hy2ONyE_Kd6yLZQpTeJQslAvDwIMfiYUVLFfL/s400/cap'n+america.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Captain America joined the
10K fun! (blurry due to taking the picture while running) Spectators of
all ages were SO excited to see him!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">The course was not too bad-- a steep hill in the beginning, but
otherwise a steady downhill with a few small inclines as we went from
Frick Park all the way downtown to the Point. However, at about mile 4-5
as we are running on the Boulevard of the Allies ramps towards
downtown, there are always spectators standing there yelling "It's all
downhill from here! You can do it!" While we appreciate the
encouragement, Liang had learned (the hard way) when running the same
stretch at the end of the half-marathon that IT'S ALL LIES. Indeed it is
generally downhill from that point to downtown, but ramps go up and
down as you run in, and when you're running that at the end of a race, even a small bump still
feels like a significant incline.</span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">About 2/3 of the way through the race, it started raining steadily. We were soaking wet by the time we arrived downtown!</span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOf5JyhoJDd_hnSk_iGrKvKCnKVj0-X-ktM6LsEBsXG2xl4IPFZsixVY99gzR9T5ctG8XctFsxZKo1zREWgVRCViLFxVVwASYSswQH_174nKOH6KZxxXVPg3pTuHeFLU3fdzBevwYOsFj/s1600/IMG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOf5JyhoJDd_hnSk_iGrKvKCnKVj0-X-ktM6LsEBsXG2xl4IPFZsixVY99gzR9T5ctG8XctFsxZKo1zREWgVRCViLFxVVwASYSswQH_174nKOH6KZxxXVPg3pTuHeFLU3fdzBevwYOsFj/s400/IMG_0455.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: David (husband of Shannon)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">And last but not least, here are our results:</span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Liang -- 01:00:04 (9.6 min/mile)</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shannon -- 00:54:24 (8.7 min/mile)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We are super happy with our times! This was Shannon's first 10K race, and she ran it Gangnam Style all the way! (No, really, she listened to the song on repeat throughout the race...she may be on to something there!) This was Liang's second 10K race, and she beat her 2011 time (1:03:26) by over 3 minutes! </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Go us!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNab0Q6co1o_9gfAHfmX8fzURnYkOq3Lz3ZHWXJc5EM9tF6kgtr4l-9RbUobtbrU9sx8OQkgM_FuFBWMZU7CMCOQ6EBk0uvl-CcxnmvGAZtHVj3WewbsuOfuxMXl0LYTVRFPqw4orvA4Y5/s1600/IMG_0462.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNab0Q6co1o_9gfAHfmX8fzURnYkOq3Lz3ZHWXJc5EM9tF6kgtr4l-9RbUobtbrU9sx8OQkgM_FuFBWMZU7CMCOQ6EBk0uvl-CcxnmvGAZtHVj3WewbsuOfuxMXl0LYTVRFPqw4orvA4Y5/s400/IMG_0462.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: David (husband of Shannon)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-91996963474998583402012-09-26T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-26T09:00:18.948-04:00The 2012 Ig Noble Awards<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's that momentous time of the year again: the unveiling of the Ig Noble Awards! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Yay for funny science!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">From the <a href="http://www.improbable.com/ig/winners/#ig2012" target="_blank">announcement page of the 2012 awards</a>:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>"PSYCHOLOGY PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://ou-nl.academia.edu/AnitaEerland">Anita Eerland</a> and <a href="http://www.brain-cognition.eu/index.html?personal.php?id=Zwaan">Rolf Zwaan</a> [THE NETHERLANDS] and <a href="http://www.mpi.nl/people/guadalupe-tulio">Tulio Guadalupe</a> [PERU, RUSSIA, and THE NETHERLANDS] for their study "Leaning to the Left Makes the Eiffel Tower Seem Smaller"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">REFERENCE: "<a href="http://pss.sagepub.com/content/early/2011/11/23/0956797611420731.abstract">Leaning to the Left Makes the Eiffel Tower Seem Smaller: Posture-Modulated Estimation</a>," Anita Eerland, Tulio M. Guadalupe and Rolf A. Zwaan, Psychological Science, vol. 22 no. 12, December 2011, pp. 1511-14.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Tulio Guadalupe. [NOTE: Two days after the
ceremony, Anita Eerland and Rolf Zwaan will marry each other, in the
Netherlands.]</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>PEACE PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://www.skn-nd.ru/products_en.html">The SKN Company</a> [RUSSIA], for <a href="http://www.skn-nd.ru/history_en.html">converting old Russian ammunition into new diamonds</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Igor Petrov</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>ACOUSTICS PRIZE</b>: <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/qurihara/top-english">Kazutaka Kurihara</a> and <a href="http://mobiquitous.com/">Koji Tsukada</a>
[JAPAN] for creating the SpeechJammer — a machine that disrupts a
person's speech, by making them hear their own spoken words at a very
slight delay.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://arxiv.org/abs/1202.6106">SpeechJammer: A System Utilizing Artificial Speech Disturbance with Delayed Auditory Feedback</a>", Kazutaka Kurihara, Koji Tsukada, arxiv.org/abs/1202.6106. February 28, 2012.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Kazutaka Kurihara and Koji Tsukada</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>NEUROSCIENCE PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://www.psych.ucsb.edu/people/visit-researchers/bennett/index.php">Craig Bennett</a>, <a href="http://psychology.vassar.edu/bios/abbaird.html">Abigail Baird</a>, <a href="http://www.psych.ucsb.edu/people/faculty/miller/index.php">Michael Miller</a>, and <a href="http://www.dartmouth.edu/%7Epsych/people/faculty/wolford.html">George Wolford</a>
[USA], for demonstrating that brain researchers, by using complicated
instruments and simple statistics, can see meaningful brain activity
anywhere — even in a dead salmon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">REFERENCE: "<a href="http://prefrontal.org/files/posters/Bennett-Salmon-2009.pdf">Neural
correlates of interspecies perspective taking in the post-mortem
Atlantic Salmon: An argument for multiple comparisons correction</a>," Craig M. Bennett, Abigail A. Baird, Michael B. Miller, and George L. Wolford, 2009.<br />
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://www.jsur.org/ar/jsur_ben102010.pdf">Neural
Correlates of Interspecies Perspective Taking in the Post-Mortem
Atlantic Salmon: An Argument For Multiple Comparisons Correction</a>,"
Craig M. Bennett, Abigail A. Baird, Michael B. Miller, and George L.
Wolford, Journal of Serendipitous and Unexpected Results, vol. 1, no. 1,
2010, pp. 1-5.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Craig Bennett, Abigail Baird, Michael Miller, and George Wolford</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>CHEMISTRY PRIZE</b>: Johan Pettersson [SWEDEN and RWANDA]. for <a href="http://www.skanskan.se/article/20111216/TRELLEBORGVELLINGE/712169821/1014/-/mysteriet-med-det-grona-vattnet-lost">solving the puzzle</a> of why, in certain houses in the town of Anderslöv, Sweden, <a href="http://www.thelocal.se/37994/20111217/">people's hair turned green</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE THE CEREMONY: Johan Pettersson</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>LITERATURE PRIZE</b>: The US Government General Accountability
Office, for issuing a report about reports about reports that recommends
the preparation of a report about the report about reports about
reports.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-480R">Actions Needed to Evaluate the Impact of Efforts to Estimate Costs of Reports and Studies</a>," US Government General Accountability Office report GAO-12-480R, May 10, 2012. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>PHYSICS PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://math.stanford.edu/%7Ekeller/">Joseph Keller</a> [USA], and <a href="http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/user/gold">Raymond Goldstein</a> [USA and UK], <a href="http://sites.google.com/site/patrickbwarren">Patrick Warren</a>, and <a href="http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/physics/staff/academic/rball/">Robin Ball</a> [UK], for calculating the balance of forces that shape and move the hair in a human ponytail.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://prl.aps.org/abstract/PRL/v108/i7/e078101">Shape of a Ponytail and the Statistical Physics of Hair Fiber Bundles</a>." Raymond E. Goldstein, Patrick B. Warren, and Robin C. Ball, Physical Review Letters, vol. 198, no. 7, 2012. <br />
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://epubs.siam.org/doi/abs/10.1137/090760477">Ponytail Motion</a>,"
Joseph B. Keller, SIAM [Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics]
Journal of Applied Mathematics, vol. 70, no. 7, 2010, pp. 2667–72.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Joseph Keller, Raymond Goldstein, Patrick Warren, Robin Ball</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>FLUID DYNAMICS PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://www.engineering.ucsb.edu/%7Erkrechet-lab/files/people/PI/index.html">Rouslan Krechetnikov</a>
[USA, RUSSIA, CANADA] and Hans Mayer [USA] for studying the dynamics of
liquid-sloshing, to learn what happens when a person walks while
carrying a cup of coffee.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://pre.aps.org/abstract/PRE/v85/i4/e046117">Walking With Coffee: Why Does It Spill?</a>" Hans C. Mayer and Rouslan Krechetnikov, Physical Review E, vol. 85, 2012.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Rouslan Krechetnikov</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>ANATOMY PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://www.emory.edu/LIVING_LINKS/dewaal.html">Frans de Waal</a> [The Netherlands and USA] and <a href="http://www.emory.edu/LIVING_LINKS/pokorny.html">Jennifer Pokorny</a> [USA] for discovering that chimpanzees can identify other chimpanzees individually from seeing photographs of their rear ends. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://www.emory.edu/LIVING_LINKS/pdf_attachments/FacesBehinds2008.pdf">Faces and Behinds: Chimpanzee Sex Perception</a>" Frans B.M. de Waal and Jennifer J. Pokorny, Advanced Science Letters, vol. 1, 99–103, 2008. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE CEREMONY: Frans de Waal and Jennifer Pokorny</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>MEDICINE PRIZE</b>: <a href="http://www.clinique-alma.com/specialitesfr.php">Emmanuel Ben-Soussan</a> and <a href="http://www3.chu-rouen.fr/internet/annuaires/Default_Service.asp?listeserv=Oui&nomdomaine=DIGE">Michel Antonietti</a> [FRANCE] for advising doctors who perform colonoscopies how to minimize the chance that their patients will explode.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/13/5295.pdf">Colonic Gas Explosion During Therapeutic Colonoscopy with Electrocautery</a>,"
Spiros D Ladas, George Karamanolis, Emmanuel Ben-Soussan, World Journal
of Gastroenterology, vol. 13, no. 40, October 2007, pp. 5295–8.<br />
REFERENCE: "<a href="http://journals.lww.com/eurojgh/Abstract/2004/12000/Argon_plasma_coagulation_in_the_treatment_of.13.aspx">Argon Plasma Coagulation in the Treatment of Hemorrhagic Radiation Proctitis is Efficient But Requires a Perfect</a>
Colonic Cleansing to Be Safe," E. Ben-Soussan, M. Antonietti, G.
Savoye, S. Herve, P. Ducrotté, and E. Lerebours, European Journal of
Gastroenterology & Hepatology, vol. 16, no. 12, December 2004, pp
1315-8.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
ATTENDING THE THE CEREMONY: Emmanuel Ben-Soussan"</span></blockquote>
DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-64609878698183543002012-09-23T19:42:00.000-04:002012-09-23T20:24:10.798-04:00Barrels of Apples!<h2>
</h2>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">When Liang suggested this joint blog I got very excited because I love experimenting with our bakery items and sharing our experiences. So, I racked my brain
trying to think of a post for this joint effort, and kept drawing a blank. Then
I realized I was really hungry and lo and behold in my shelves I saw my
recently canned applesauce and chicken stock. I had my answer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHaNfEXxMAHAdABHs-aI1czoZrG1oErNl_NSh0bTYSxCB1Lb3TvQ_QFKwfM82T8GPtsTlrLF4X0lRz0ShnxWV9fHsYmNEUCVNVX1aCRDEupp9wwgGG8gRJFhZmoco72Qmtk7XEBDuUzUi/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHaNfEXxMAHAdABHs-aI1czoZrG1oErNl_NSh0bTYSxCB1Lb3TvQ_QFKwfM82T8GPtsTlrLF4X0lRz0ShnxWV9fHsYmNEUCVNVX1aCRDEupp9wwgGG8gRJFhZmoco72Qmtk7XEBDuUzUi/s320/021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">During a recent (and
much anticipated) visit to Soergel’s orchard with Liang and both of our
husbands, we were walking around their store looking (and smelling) the
delicious apples and suddenly I realized I was lusting after a whole bunch of
apples. I mean a whole BUNCH of apples. A half bushel of apples is very nearly
a barrel of fun! So a half bushel of apples in the apartment later, David asked
what I planned on doing with all of these apples. Applesauce of course! In an
excited flurry I ran and got my pressure canner out of storage. I then set off
on an exciting adventure of cooking down apples with a couple of cinnamon
sticks, filling my jars and pressure canning them into perfect preservation.
Using the majority of the apples from my half bushel I was able to get 7 quarts
of deliciousness. After completing the ‘sauce and setting aside a bowl of
apples for eating, I realized my canning high needed riding out, so I set off
on the next project: homemade chicken stock.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">David and I have
fallen in love with using real chicken stock in recipes. After using homemade
chicken stock I can’t go back to using store bought broth unless it’s a dire
emergency. And by dire emergency what I really mean is never. I remember
watching Michael Symon on the Food Network and he said that if you don’t have
real chicken stock opt for water because the store broth isn’t worth it. So,
after making a roasting chicken for dinner one night that week we froze the
bones, along with various vegetables and had everything ready to make some
golden deliciousness in a jar. Now I just had to decide a recipe to follow, and
since we have been watching a lot of Jacques Pepin on DVD I felt like that was
the winner. You can see the finished products in the picture below, the
applesauce on the right and the stock on the left. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6-1DWHYRYWzMoVjo2M3-HeWv72T9wL78XYyj6uZVTiZrugUoIGcCaFAXMwf_kNpQYV7pPaQsgxVH-ywyskYtnwQF4JLLTjYmNZTkTdB9LS5feH8c36DDIYhry21sXxfJKYAOFEir-4eE/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6-1DWHYRYWzMoVjo2M3-HeWv72T9wL78XYyj6uZVTiZrugUoIGcCaFAXMwf_kNpQYV7pPaQsgxVH-ywyskYtnwQF4JLLTjYmNZTkTdB9LS5feH8c36DDIYhry21sXxfJKYAOFEir-4eE/s320/025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Can I just say that I
love Jacques Pepin’s style of cooking not only because of his practicality, but
also because he works to get the most out of each ingredient to create a
masterpiece out of simple components. So this is his method of making stock,
but with my own adjustments so I could make enough to can it. The recipe below
is adapted from Jacques chicken stock recipe in his cookbook “Chez Jacques”.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Chicken Stock for
Canning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Makes
approximately 12 qt stock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1 chicken carcass (neck, wings, etc.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Enough cold water to cover the bones in
each pot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2 Large pots<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4 medium onions cut in halved and peeled<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4 tsp dried thyme<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2 bay leaves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2 small leeks, or the green tops of the
leeks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4 ribs celery<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">6 carrots<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1 ½ tbsp whole peppercorns<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1 or 2 peppers (type is up to you)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
had to split this up into 2 large pots. So I split up the ingredients as
necessary into each pot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Bring
the bones in the water to a boil and as soon as its boiling, reduce the heat to
maintain a gentle boil. Let boil uncovered for 10-15 minutes before adding the
other ingredients. Skim any scum that comes to the surface off and discard. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Now
add the vegetables and seasonings. Return it to a gentle boil and let go for 2
hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Strain
through a colander, and then through a fine mesh strainer to filter out any
pieces. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">You
can cool it overnight in the fridge and then skim off the fat to completely de-fat
the stock, or just immediately can it if you don’t mind having the chicken fat
remain in it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If
you plan on canning the stock, take the quart containers and run them through
the dishwasher to sanitize them while the stock is boiling. When you’re ready
to can it, start a pan of water on the stove and sanitize the lids and rings
for about 5 minutes before using them. Fill the pressure canner to the 3 quart line
in the bottom. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">7. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Fill the jars leaving 1” head space. Carefully
wipe the tops of the jars with a damp cloth. Tighten on a lid with a ring and
place in the pressure canner. When it’s full carefully put on the lid and place
on the stove top. This will require the 10 lb pressure gauge and you will need
to process 25 minutes. Follow the pressure canner’s instruction guide.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">David was exciting
about our impending ‘gastronomical’ experiences that awaited us, and I have to
admit that I found myself salivating thinking about it! So many options! Soup,
stews, and baked goods! I have to start planning for next month’s meals …</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</div>
Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01819256782970495818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-63600767446910300372012-09-22T09:10:00.002-04:002012-09-22T09:12:05.799-04:00Countdown to the Hobbit!!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://mycountdown.org/fullpage.php?cp3_Hex=0F0200&cp2_Hex=348E04&cp1_Hex=F9F9FF&ham=0&img&hbg=0&hfg=0&sid=0&fwdt=150&lab=1&text1=the%20opening%20of%20The%20Hobbit%20movie%20part%201&text2=The%20Hobbit%20-%20An%20Unexpected%20Journey,%20December%2014,%202012&group=My%20Countdown&countdown=My%20Countdown&widget_number=3010&event_time=1355515200&timezone=UTC" target="_blank">83 days and counting</a> until The Hobbit (Part I) hits theaters on December 14, 2012!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">To say I am excited would be a gross understatement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The second trailer came out just a couple days ago. Gave me goosebumps, like all good trailers should!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/b1SJ7yaa7cI" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Who else is excited about The Hobbit movies?? </span>DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7278182339157872851.post-7549049178147105042012-09-22T08:53:00.002-04:002012-09-22T09:16:54.114-04:00Welcome!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hi! We're Liang and Shannon, two twenty-something BFFs who are a wee bit nerdy and love to do crafty and food-related activities completely unrelated to our day jobs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We decided to join forces to create this blog as a written record of our personal accomplishments and obsessions, and to share with each other and our family and friends all the wonderful things we discover along the way. We will try to encourage our long-suffering husbands to contribute occasionally, as they can be just as nerdy and apron-wielding!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Our prior history of collaboration has been very fruitful, a few examples of which are shown below: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1Usbd_9BGip5Rw4Zd9iu8tj0rdzTtT2qHs7zhoRqnTsdbiMiUHqKpqGrNV0garPh1gmEl3_sY87NcGHThQxpJ6Q2XjBusFE9IhYCgw4MJ6rF55mG-INGdVtfhkE1LLwKJEEqCdU7GxFo/s1600/IMG_2307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1Usbd_9BGip5Rw4Zd9iu8tj0rdzTtT2qHs7zhoRqnTsdbiMiUHqKpqGrNV0garPh1gmEl3_sY87NcGHThQxpJ6Q2XjBusFE9IhYCgw4MJ6rF55mG-INGdVtfhkE1LLwKJEEqCdU7GxFo/s400/IMG_2307.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday cake for Shannon's husband</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ygpcffBNBvwJyUKQteZpVbrJoMFF_AshX391JiKZBxFuN5ZZqnRjb4c-r56B79sU0uGXipYMuIi7qvtsGjGkoP4j7-O6IsKURDwOBNzNFtfAan466QMlr76ARPpnjxtcty7kbPLyBGce/s1600/IMG_3873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ygpcffBNBvwJyUKQteZpVbrJoMFF_AshX391JiKZBxFuN5ZZqnRjb4c-r56B79sU0uGXipYMuIi7qvtsGjGkoP4j7-O6IsKURDwOBNzNFtfAan466QMlr76ARPpnjxtcty7kbPLyBGce/s400/IMG_3873.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peach marmalade and blueberry jam making</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimWbx1Kzv3WOTbXWnkfPhBxDWF8K40goC2AU6Igcq1Xmi6UmkAX_QvqFSLG11kukqmuzYej2xc0vh6Q0SLRfHV00m5iGfyOXcUrNZNzgnBpiQK0pxTn4TooI2-JqQQY62VYPYQzo-uxVj/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimWbx1Kzv3WOTbXWnkfPhBxDWF8K40goC2AU6Igcq1Xmi6UmkAX_QvqFSLG11kukqmuzYej2xc0vh6Q0SLRfHV00m5iGfyOXcUrNZNzgnBpiQK0pxTn4TooI2-JqQQY62VYPYQzo-uxVj/s400/IMG_2535.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas cookie extravaganza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We've also trained for a half-marathon together and gotten each other hopelessly addicted to new books. We hope you will join our conversation about food, life, fun things, and yes, sometimes (very) nerdy pursuits.</span>DPLKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064113895504433149noreply@blogger.com0