Now, this really is pathetic. I'm sorry to say that all three of the people who have been to my blog have been disappointed there are no updates, no new posts, no nuthin!
Well, folks, I am trying to hold down a job AND pursue my passion. Not to mention keep my perfect prince of a boyfriend (and for those of you who know him, isn't he such a special one!?) happy, and actually maintain real friendships (most importantly with buttercup, fashionslave, queenan, kp, redvelvet, neesie and lala). Thankfully, the burgeoning little biz I run w/ a close friend of mine, Xeb, so at least I get to see her quite frequently! And I haven't decided if I will continue this blog (please, don't cry) as we will be formalizing a blog on our biz' site.
Alas, I must tell you about the most fabulous dessert I have EVER made. Hmm, maybe that's a strong statement. But, I have a fondness for the red velvet cake and have ever since Steel Magnolias. Something about that deep red color plus the cream cheese frosting, yum yum yum!
And this time, it was with the help of my dear friend queenan who supplied the not-so-specific "guidelines" for pralines, and miss fashionslave who gave me the most fabulous cookbook that I've so mistakenly underutilized (my regrets for this one - seriously! -what have I been missing?? though i am making right by making you crepes this weekend, k?). The result was a triple layered gorgeous red mini cake thing, with globs of cream cheese frosting and pralines (pronounced praw-lines in some parts) in between, and a heaping of praline mousse on the top (sprinkled w/ more pralines of course). perfect prince nearly died! I went to bed with a stomach ache from eating too much, (cause you know I can't stop with a good thing) a common occurance I must admit.
Also of note, I visited my alma mater this weekend and noshed on the food of my college days. I didn't make it to armadillo grill (sadness), but I did have my favorite brueggers bagel sandwich with a He's Not blue cup. Delishioso! But, the food/drink climax of the weekend was at Buttercup's house. We'd gone for a long walk in the neighborhood (I do very much miss the 'burbs, especially the NC 'burbs, this time of year when they're all lush and springy and smelling pretty). She fixes us strawberry dacqueries (a beautiful blend of fresh strawberries, raspberry vodka, champagne, strawberry d. mix and ice with a healthy dollop of whipped cream) and we go relax on the back porch in the sun and listen to beach music. Honestly, does it get any better than that?? These are the moments when I seriously consider life in the south (again). Well, we will just have to see about that...
It is the mum's birthday this week and I am making her a big birthday cake. Contenders are coconut w/ meyer lemon - a concept Xeb and I've been talking about doing for awhile. Also might have to do a carrot cake. I've never done a carrot cake (i know! shhhh...don't tell anyone!), and I feel that this is something I need to have under my belt. Little bro is also expected to do lobster for the occasion. Delightful!! And will have to concoct some treats for the festivities on Saturday - Derby and Cinco de Mayo. Fun!
Lastly, I am reading HEAT, about Mario Batali and the like. And I was very much enjoying it - especially as Bill, the author, makes his way through the kitchen and learns all sorts of stuff that I probably will never learn or experience (although my brother Stalmo will, lucky duck). Fascinating really. Well, it's getting a little dry now. Bill's in Italy, and I'm struggling. This was Xeb's favorite part, so I'm trying to keep an open mind. Will have to give it an honest to god effort to push on through the remainder of the book. But if I have to make it through another chapter that goes into great detail about something as boring as why this man bill is obsessed with how eggs came to be a critical ingredient in pasta, I will have to pitch the book into the subway tracks at 72nd street.
Ya'll have a great weekend!
CN
