Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Words of wisdom.

Your dreams will never come true in the way you had expected they would. You just have to follow your heart and do what you feel in your heart to be right. And the way will be made on it's own. Almost magically. "When you really want something the whole world conspires in helping you to achieve it" - Paulo Coelho, Alchemist

Learn to accept this and life will become effortless and fulfilled. Isn't it funny how life has it's way of forcing even the straightest laced people to be spontaneous?

J.

The weekend in review.

Summer is great in Minnesota. I like to think that we win awards like 'Best Outdoor City' or 'Most Active State' because of all of our weather related pent up energy and desire to get out and do something... 

Anything.

So, even if you aren't a very outdoorsy, active person MN has something for you. Here is a little photo journey/trip report of my weekend (and Monday night).

Starting with Saturday. Rain was predicted, but held off for most of the morning and early afternoon. I caught up with a few of my favorite gals while enjoying cocktails and sitting on their dock. Low key, but hey. I was outside on a nice day with good company. No complaints.

Sunday brought me to St. Paul with some lovely gals. We did a little joy driving, which is pretty much required when in St. Paul, thanks to it's beautiful old charm feel and houses that walked right out of your dreams. I saw a picture of Harriet Island half underwater, so we decided to check that out before lunch. Once we did a good walk up and down the trail we went in search of a patio. My go to is always Patrick McGovern's, but we opted to mix things up and try something new. Now, I know my patios, but I always fear the crowds that go hand-in-hand with them. We ended up at The Liffey and were pleased to fill our bellies with good food and drinks there. The patio is pretty awesome too. :)


On the non-flooded side of the hill at Harriet Island.





And lastly Monday night was spent family style, with my main man's side. The Twins failed to bring home a win, but we managed to enjoy ourselves just fine. I love me some game food. In the few hours we spent here I put down a few brews, bloody Mary (topped with a hamburger slider!), and hot dog. 



Take me out to the ball game, baby. 

J.

Foodie craving.

July, means the Fourth of July. The Fourth of July is a well celebrated American holiday. Holidays mean food. Good food. Food that makes you forget about your healthy eating. So, in the spirit of the Holidays, I may just have to whip up a batch of these little treats. 

I found the recipe and of course this lovely photographic proof of their amazing-ness on Paint Chips and Frosting's website. The recipe seems reasonable, with not too many ingredients, many of which may already be on your shelves. I have posted a grocery list below, but be sure to head to their page for all the 'dets'.

Mini Grasshopper Cheesecakes

Grocery List:
8 oz. cream cheese block
Eggs (2)
Sugar (1/2 cup)
Peppermint extract (1 tsp)
Green food coloring
Grasshopper cookies (30)
Andes candies
Chocolate chips (1 1/4 cups)
Cream or Milk (1/2 cup)

How bad could they be? Whatever, I'm worth it.

J.