Kitchen and Living Room Combined Designs

The BEST Chocolate Buttercream

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Aijxnvf_4S0rTKse_AMYa_f-hhj4RlkmWwtGc8YgIV8PTnVgC-wLyDMPKv8nVkswagqKiKtpDWHfmwSccsIEvIoA0vdqa4qZi7e8GlihdWZB79JfOKgcdv6RxTSFYAbOYEuZFcMaJco/s1600/chocolate-cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Aijxnvf_4S0rTKse_AMYa_f-hhj4RlkmWwtGc8YgIV8PTnVgC-wLyDMPKv8nVkswagqKiKtpDWHfmwSccsIEvIoA0vdqa4qZi7e8GlihdWZB79JfOKgcdv6RxTSFYAbOYEuZFcMaJco/s640/chocolate-cake.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fthe-best-chocolate-buttercream.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jZRYPZovQpI%2FUagK7qveMxI%2FAAAAAAAASgo%2FOPF5Ceun1NY%2Fs640%2Fchocolate-cake2.jpg&description=The%20Best%20Chocolate%20Buttercream"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Gn36ds-YS1Uhhb3yOOVEoI12DTIe5ftbSo4w_4xWHbDXmx62-HOTLxeaTUm4G5hqEXEfvzDMkwA1tCWYN7s0FAJhTyAFy8DTfRzYSYWI3hL7N5hJWhY8L6IqIbuRTBrzzIHUzuRI9d4/s1600/chocolate-cake2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Gn36ds-YS1Uhhb3yOOVEoI12DTIe5ftbSo4w_4xWHbDXmx62-HOTLxeaTUm4G5hqEXEfvzDMkwA1tCWYN7s0FAJhTyAFy8DTfRzYSYWI3hL7N5hJWhY8L6IqIbuRTBrzzIHUzuRI9d4/s640/chocolate-cake2.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>Mike doesn't like frosting - isn't that the most annoying thing ever?  He's always telling me to only put a little bit on cakes and cupcakes.  For those of us who have coveted the "corner" pieces of birthday cakes, this request is hard to comprehend (or obey).  When I find an icing or frosting that Mike loves, I know I have struck gold - as I have with this chocolate buttercream.  It is not too sweet, not too chocolately and gloriously creamy.<br />   <br /><i>The Best Homemade</i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Buttercream </span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fthe-best-chocolate-buttercream.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jZRYPZovQpI%2FUagK7qveMxI%2FAAAAAAAASgo%2FOPF5Ceun1NY%2Fs640%2Fchocolate-cake2.jpg&description=The%20Best%20Chocolate%20Buttercream"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />1 cup of chocolate chips<br />1/4 cup of milk<br />1/4 cup of cocoa powder<br />4 cups of powdered sugar<br />1 teaspoon of vanilla<br />12 tablespoons of butter, softened<br /><br />In a small bowl, pour milk over chocolate chips.  Microwave for 30 seconds, stir until melted.  Repeat if necessary.  Place melted chocolate in a bowl with cocoa and vanilla, mix.  Add powdered sugar slowly.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8k1LTPCeDjMm_vA1EqG97UxMQyuOXsFD45GYdek6lkSa-Rd8YRXouc_l1pLX3i5qNIhIBS8-IeW92cb9Muqjm0KSDJ4YSSNgNkWytLds32DUwcm8WM-g9Xa4u0s-0eEgOhf1Q9L7bccw/s1600/IMG_0844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8k1LTPCeDjMm_vA1EqG97UxMQyuOXsFD45GYdek6lkSa-Rd8YRXouc_l1pLX3i5qNIhIBS8-IeW92cb9Muqjm0KSDJ4YSSNgNkWytLds32DUwcm8WM-g9Xa4u0s-0eEgOhf1Q9L7bccw/s640/IMG_0844.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Whip together for a couple of minutes until well combined.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUrtcxqwa3t3hmTiixb2xE3oZ3RHw3-AqoWvcwjEnMzS7kJUUxZW10SgpaUnIY1u_fCS0E9e3PHbGBqVCzwN-V5HgfvQZGb5E5llNHaNVlfiiMVawbnUMF7ujeRy16DdlVGcesI9MkME/s1600/IMG_0861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUrtcxqwa3t3hmTiixb2xE3oZ3RHw3-AqoWvcwjEnMzS7kJUUxZW10SgpaUnIY1u_fCS0E9e3PHbGBqVCzwN-V5HgfvQZGb5E5llNHaNVlfiiMVawbnUMF7ujeRy16DdlVGcesI9MkME/s640/IMG_0861.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Add butter in 2 tablespoons at a time until incorporated.  Whip for 2-3 more minutes. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfov7GwdGaLrKFayX5VaaUm6D0Dfy1S016OKblRyOGH7GxhDfx2PIyElZv-9rBTDkc7ainZVrwLRdL48__4GL5KDpelU9s2ENY9z_nDKZ-nQLbWLrGQuh2JbGkbTluulqDpDjyEUbHe2A/s1600/IMG_0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfov7GwdGaLrKFayX5VaaUm6D0Dfy1S016OKblRyOGH7GxhDfx2PIyElZv-9rBTDkc7ainZVrwLRdL48__4GL5KDpelU9s2ENY9z_nDKZ-nQLbWLrGQuh2JbGkbTluulqDpDjyEUbHe2A/s640/IMG_0868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Add more milk or powdered sugar to achieve desired consistency. <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fthe-best-chocolate-buttercream.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jZRYPZovQpI%2FUagK7qveMxI%2FAAAAAAAASgo%2FOPF5Ceun1NY%2Fs640%2Fchocolate-cake2.jpg&description=The%20Best%20Chocolate%20Buttercream"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

The BEST Chocolate Buttercream

Mike doesn't like frosting - isn't that the most annoying thing ever? He's always telling me to only put a little bit on cakes and cupcakes. For those of us who have coveted the "corner" pieces of birthday cakes, this request is hard to comprehend (or obey). When I find an icing or frosting that …

30May2013

Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp with Pesto Pasta

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD8qZMvuKFuIeesKakxPljHOTbG3rXl9h8O0JQA1OcN44TmaSGmnAhQ0yvkq0Loc3xPuYWnj29bql6YCWZ7Y41cShqXkNcAFQttRZxI5iUa1rMkvlEHKQi1siNd8ltucR7kwiJU8YE-K4/s1600/pesto-shrimp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD8qZMvuKFuIeesKakxPljHOTbG3rXl9h8O0JQA1OcN44TmaSGmnAhQ0yvkq0Loc3xPuYWnj29bql6YCWZ7Y41cShqXkNcAFQttRZxI5iUa1rMkvlEHKQi1siNd8ltucR7kwiJU8YE-K4/s640/pesto-shrimp.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>When you think of backyard entertaining, burgers or steaks are usually on the menu.  If the crowd is right I like to take a fresher approach and serve pasta with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/06/homemade-pesto-sauce-fresh-basil-pesto.html">Homemade Pesto Sauce</a><br />and <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/06/lemon-basil-grilled-shrimp-kebabs.html">Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp</a>.<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Flemon-basil-grilled-shrimp-with-pesto.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ibHVyd6w1lg%2FUaVe2aeiaZI%2FAAAAAAAASgU%2FRfu35eIXVxU%2Fs640%2Fpesto-shrimp.jpg&description=Lemon%20Basil%20Shrimp%20with%20Pesto%20Pasta"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />I served this same shrimp as an appetizer last year at my Ladies Night Patio Party, and the year before as <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/grilled-herbed-shrimp-asparagus-corn.html">an entree with grilled corn on the cob and asparagus</a>.  <br /><br />You can use any pesto for the pasta that you like - it is so much easier to make than you'd think!  The basil in my garden is not quite ready to harvest, so I bought a huge bunch to use at Trader Joes for just a couple of dollars.  I like the put the hot pasta in a big bowl straight from the pasta water and toss it with the pesto - the heat takes a little bit of the edge off of the fresh basil and raw garlic.<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Flemon-basil-grilled-shrimp-with-pesto.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ibHVyd6w1lg%2FUaVe2aeiaZI%2FAAAAAAAASgU%2FRfu35eIXVxU%2Fs640%2Fpesto-shrimp.jpg&description=Lemon%20Basil%20Shrimp%20with%20Pesto%20Pasta"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />Recipes :<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/06/homemade-pesto-sauce-fresh-basil-pesto.html">Homemade Pesto Sauce</a><br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/06/lemon-basil-grilled-shrimp-kebabs.html">Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp</a><br /><br />Do you have any grilling favorites other than the standard steaks and burgers?  I'm needing inspiration... the new grill needs to be put to use! <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp with Pesto Pasta

When you think of backyard entertaining, burgers or steaks are usually on the menu. If the crowd is right I like to take a fresher approach and serve pasta with Homemade Pesto Sauceand Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp.I served this same shrimp as an appetizer last year at my Ladies Night Patio Party, and…

28May2013

Cape Cod Weekend | A Classic New England Clambake & Emma on the Beach

<br /><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCYqMKQpX7-ttXAI39KBmoVtQXJ1PxCG91aWwiabxFg3eY1f7d4iTBBcWi5QIqfNS6avtoUDOCPYBLH49fY3E70HWmspuysMnCnubK__1XIJXNgAPm-Yv9Rwm9waQoWUmLHpKFHuzHfWC/s1600/IMG_6909.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCYqMKQpX7-ttXAI39KBmoVtQXJ1PxCG91aWwiabxFg3eY1f7d4iTBBcWi5QIqfNS6avtoUDOCPYBLH49fY3E70HWmspuysMnCnubK__1XIJXNgAPm-Yv9Rwm9waQoWUmLHpKFHuzHfWC/s640/IMG_6909.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />**I'm re-sharing this post from our trip last Memorial Day Weekend to Cape Cod.  This year in our Cape Cod-style house we've hosted two parties and will have attended two others by the weekend's end of both new and old friends.  While I miss our vacation lifestyle with weekend excursions to fabulous New England locations, I love being settled into our new house in our "home" city.<br /><br />Emma's on Summer break this week, so my blogging might be sparse... but I'll be sure to take a lot of photos of our projects.  I hope you're having a great weekend!  <br /><br />Jenny<br />.....<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzrWhvpjI14B5mt5Zgmlbj4bmOPc1omH4wjOJ9CvG9JN1iDTk_efvdkBqdRacUgRLcnKThpJ7onwcZgZq8fSgqVTGfoIS_rii65DRyUd490_cOiqWZhJTkPkaBdo3C2sqGWqpkQMyUESa/s1600/IMG_7062.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzrWhvpjI14B5mt5Zgmlbj4bmOPc1omH4wjOJ9CvG9JN1iDTk_efvdkBqdRacUgRLcnKThpJ7onwcZgZq8fSgqVTGfoIS_rii65DRyUd490_cOiqWZhJTkPkaBdo3C2sqGWqpkQMyUESa/s320/IMG_7062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Last year when we first moved to the Boston area, we drove out the Cape to see what it was all about.  We came across the beautiful Chatham Bars Inn on our driving tour- it was picture perfect Cape Cod.  It went right to my list of 'musts' during our stay in New England.<br /><br />On Thursday last week I got the itch to get out of town.  I needed that feeling of freedom.  That mind clearing, its the weekend, free from the computer, free from laundry, give me a cocktail feeling that only a vacation can give you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSNE-lqrkEUvjFOFxl_iIVoYf1QDAad80tEJ-CB_hWHKFopLAM11zf4uDIHl3Eon0GiTB3JVOC_ttk9BhLuLnOx68Vv4TDymRMyq_ELR7upyIttlXgNu9I-ZQQO92galPS0x-BrX_11dy/s1600/IMG_7056.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSNE-lqrkEUvjFOFxl_iIVoYf1QDAad80tEJ-CB_hWHKFopLAM11zf4uDIHl3Eon0GiTB3JVOC_ttk9BhLuLnOx68Vv4TDymRMyq_ELR7upyIttlXgNu9I-ZQQO92galPS0x-BrX_11dy/s640/IMG_7056.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />After a two hour drive we were transported to the grand and stately Chatham Bars Inn.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKU9IFDFleNx9FWa70ifheZlz1McZVqtLgoaF9xAKM-HxOFjBEvAxqsOg54bgRf3WFj161MHdsyYBbaV3-7QQJ3L9Tzmwy_NdROS76yhihyncncCUzdSjBG25DxDrmZgyqaopiP2pcyi-/s1600/IMG_7057.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKU9IFDFleNx9FWa70ifheZlz1McZVqtLgoaF9xAKM-HxOFjBEvAxqsOg54bgRf3WFj161MHdsyYBbaV3-7QQJ3L9Tzmwy_NdROS76yhihyncncCUzdSjBG25DxDrmZgyqaopiP2pcyi-/s640/IMG_7057.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />The moment we entered, I was taking design notes the entire time, noting fixtures, upholstery choices, drapes, the subdued color palate and the refined, yet comfortable feeling the rooms had.  I was thinking, "I would love for our future home to feel like this..." Then the inevitable day dreaming of our future 'perfect' home/life begins.  My mind starts racing- how I long for a stately home to fill with unique finds, comfortable furnishings and pieces full of character... budget?  What budget?  Ah, what a lovely life that would be.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOow2hycpWEQMQ6qDBLzJpFg-35FC3LLlQuSF41kUwIL4q4Cz72y628n7td-QiYKil3pBlRVkf4fOO2rpgHMFRFZOgsx9zFiTCgcvddfxzZeZemAWmd4zekIqKHPrmhlwRA4OuyQtrPe2P/s1600/IMG_7038.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOow2hycpWEQMQ6qDBLzJpFg-35FC3LLlQuSF41kUwIL4q4Cz72y628n7td-QiYKil3pBlRVkf4fOO2rpgHMFRFZOgsx9zFiTCgcvddfxzZeZemAWmd4zekIqKHPrmhlwRA4OuyQtrPe2P/s640/IMG_7038.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />  <br />Then we step out onto the beach.  Restored.  My crazy head stops its babbling and I breathe.  Fresh. Ocean.  Air.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eGGdn0LvL9WMyz4Ef9xGM-pE4uxatvOZxle7oj16aRoQXbst8ZfUoWwNqm7fj1x_hdfnu-3CZvZcMjKXhp-f9AY5wo2AJqg2Ledg0RQ_vdS1reP79C57UISdOqtTIerJYtshdPf7bsI3/s1600/IMG_6919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eGGdn0LvL9WMyz4Ef9xGM-pE4uxatvOZxle7oj16aRoQXbst8ZfUoWwNqm7fj1x_hdfnu-3CZvZcMjKXhp-f9AY5wo2AJqg2Ledg0RQ_vdS1reP79C57UISdOqtTIerJYtshdPf7bsI3/s640/IMG_6919.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I watch Emma smile at the wind in her face.   All of those thoughts about needing, wanting, waiting for more seem distant, almost insane to think that they would make us... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH1S9101WSojesfLYEr0To89LRl95Z_Se2ZVa0vjqQECE2bqcGoqBAVfoKh6SymlMiq71Mb9-3W70INYq0IbxIZxSKBf6oIwPUe2Rr_pfvZOAWSJvJpp7RyV30BVjQcgM5IIK6tyGZ4OD1/s1600/IMG_6921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH1S9101WSojesfLYEr0To89LRl95Z_Se2ZVa0vjqQECE2bqcGoqBAVfoKh6SymlMiq71Mb9-3W70INYq0IbxIZxSKBf6oIwPUe2Rr_pfvZOAWSJvJpp7RyV30BVjQcgM5IIK6tyGZ4OD1/s640/IMG_6921.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Happier.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-b_Ech6KSzFEfsg76SlnONdwJ__i6-5OXVvu5mLMZwhEtVeKuupKBFxUGkNPY6hWsu-Isno-dnJIhjkV6UUuRhDPbz91HuOxAdH_EJGKG7Mtge_Zx2HZLPkD-i2W4LoiHrOYb8MddlqiN/s1600/IMG_6902.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-b_Ech6KSzFEfsg76SlnONdwJ__i6-5OXVvu5mLMZwhEtVeKuupKBFxUGkNPY6hWsu-Isno-dnJIhjkV6UUuRhDPbz91HuOxAdH_EJGKG7Mtge_Zx2HZLPkD-i2W4LoiHrOYb8MddlqiN/s640/IMG_6902.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />I think God for vacations...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlIR0kKe1le8sC8rZ-vzVwp9OCw2s6UhBKHBU5nNXRqRwRdTqWpxkW2DHZ_YPagk93BJaI6GKLP1rkUaZvwqbKV8yfym_fCBu6-oJbu37JOZ8LZKGHMpICiilfkIbbOw4oa6zWLJWS-yq/s1600/IMG_6928.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlIR0kKe1le8sC8rZ-vzVwp9OCw2s6UhBKHBU5nNXRqRwRdTqWpxkW2DHZ_YPagk93BJaI6GKLP1rkUaZvwqbKV8yfym_fCBu6-oJbu37JOZ8LZKGHMpICiilfkIbbOw4oa6zWLJWS-yq/s640/IMG_6928.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />...that remind us to breath.  And smile.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rYCWKO9wcP1H6fFfvWu-MMx1m863aEK228V2pbXZIrPsrHAoiqlXDjSNHNxRNsE96eiBoFK_uDGle7DOtTjs_ndon_BuHBslYE8rzAayuBL-atd5Hoylyu2XpdTsOAbJBAV6k7R1zcqA/s1600/IMG_6934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rYCWKO9wcP1H6fFfvWu-MMx1m863aEK228V2pbXZIrPsrHAoiqlXDjSNHNxRNsE96eiBoFK_uDGle7DOtTjs_ndon_BuHBslYE8rzAayuBL-atd5Hoylyu2XpdTsOAbJBAV6k7R1zcqA/s640/IMG_6934.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Maybe  that is what vacations are for.  To get rid of the if, when, if only,  then, then our lives will be perfect state of mind.   They  wake us up- you're already there. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFMPaebzJQ4bJmMCsDLvzvWpI6Y0ALOUY0fL7tkQSvx5-vbMu7bNqlyr_D-WP9Dj0MUdwi8TPNvszMQOTSYGP8yE5R9NpAyiCxkmhz9tcGU-1kDcLaannpyuYZY6V3PHlIpTDZqnAYbB1/s1600/IMG_6962.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFMPaebzJQ4bJmMCsDLvzvWpI6Y0ALOUY0fL7tkQSvx5-vbMu7bNqlyr_D-WP9Dj0MUdwi8TPNvszMQOTSYGP8yE5R9NpAyiCxkmhz9tcGU-1kDcLaannpyuYZY6V3PHlIpTDZqnAYbB1/s640/IMG_6962.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy the ride.  And so we did...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21kmoIo0NDCWTcFVgaLl71bQPdqslKz88KgpfVr3ymMqe1MxXk53sggu-hpbbJGfedSjB65UsLCMdsgLAUcHqWvlyHV-PxE-dFPY1aAFFM3ddluCU1ocEFIzL-4iwKaD8LNAyDwvSBudF/s1600/IMG_6960.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21kmoIo0NDCWTcFVgaLl71bQPdqslKz88KgpfVr3ymMqe1MxXk53sggu-hpbbJGfedSjB65UsLCMdsgLAUcHqWvlyHV-PxE-dFPY1aAFFM3ddluCU1ocEFIzL-4iwKaD8LNAyDwvSBudF/s640/IMG_6960.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />At our first official clambake.  Clambakes hold a special place in our hearts.  You might remember that Mike and I have <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/06/entertaining-clambake-2010.html" target="_blank">hosted a clambake at our house</a>  for the last 3 years... in our old backyard, back in the Midwest.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9KZTxCQBFU7EijNs6IrrNgFUVI-4M1E6dQEGd3nroULVYLRzk7SvCrTtwkol5dUqMTihj5g66zokddl7xNMc5jSKvmwo7XeGjdIAdgsdTLpx8y19ToHKh98SH1nJGBUG5KWQN1QyrCAJB/s1600/of=50,590,442_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9KZTxCQBFU7EijNs6IrrNgFUVI-4M1E6dQEGd3nroULVYLRzk7SvCrTtwkol5dUqMTihj5g66zokddl7xNMc5jSKvmwo7XeGjdIAdgsdTLpx8y19ToHKh98SH1nJGBUG5KWQN1QyrCAJB/s320/of=50,590,442_20.jpg" width="320" /></a> It was our tradition.   Actually, it was my tradition... Mike was a only guest at my first clambake.  <br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/search/label/clambake" target="_blank">Clambakes</a> throughout the years... <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1pKqm7uhTJuaoxgCkGDXii1mkj7VxWbGJgYtnLrSXwczCL8Uj4HaNAJ8P5s2vkArEOUawUCFij6BlxQI5dRYwGj06dXRYDDY3ACNhfVhLdAJozpcbQdLFBO5WE9piyJAtbZxN2mVBeOo/s1600/Clambake+group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1pKqm7uhTJuaoxgCkGDXii1mkj7VxWbGJgYtnLrSXwczCL8Uj4HaNAJ8P5s2vkArEOUawUCFij6BlxQI5dRYwGj06dXRYDDY3ACNhfVhLdAJozpcbQdLFBO5WE9piyJAtbZxN2mVBeOo/s320/Clambake+group.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdt1QY9oaHyrzud6lz4iGzcm-cw7RzDm5jgj7dVtraIYRKn0Z6LkiV-RDi43nwUVfSQxkgt314COLIStrwQDZHgRcRgp9_tAzIpx9UJCf2iip2p4Dg1PGOxVB3ZhTzOU5_sTEt4mJwuA/s1600/232323232%7Ffp-87%3Enu=323-%3E-%3C5%3E2;8%3EWSNRCG=3377786286338nu0mrj.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="213" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488596443053478322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdt1QY9oaHyrzud6lz4iGzcm-cw7RzDm5jgj7dVtraIYRKn0Z6LkiV-RDi43nwUVfSQxkgt314COLIStrwQDZHgRcRgp9_tAzIpx9UJCf2iip2p4Dg1PGOxVB3ZhTzOU5_sTEt4mJwuA/s320/232323232%7Ffp-87%3Enu=323-%3E-%3C5%3E2;8%3EWSNRCG=3377786286338nu0mrj.jpeg" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2g8muI6kkwZjPd0sm9hb7MdVb9omuPsrEXkEgZ_cksgr3Z0EzgTrF1wr34F83NmuF-8kjgaKbUoahfZBzPer3booK6NKgnJXDRilo19ZxfGGz1JoA1JhGzijSkl99ZGin2HWE1_kqBdfT/s1600/IMG_6953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2g8muI6kkwZjPd0sm9hb7MdVb9omuPsrEXkEgZ_cksgr3Z0EzgTrF1wr34F83NmuF-8kjgaKbUoahfZBzPer3booK6NKgnJXDRilo19ZxfGGz1JoA1JhGzijSkl99ZGin2HWE1_kqBdfT/s640/IMG_6953.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />The Clambake of 2012.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8qO-I7IpengYtSVMTngU9dlnAJxET-bvijOl8vW3CJOJf6e32HHtNn5-BxzqfZZvWtEt5PoPl7ck4POiaPlrSzJUSEvHIgLRAGzCnzVO9a1kHnm5jX59lBsY9IAEKOaCZOt_A2qKnWJE/s1600/IMG_6974.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8qO-I7IpengYtSVMTngU9dlnAJxET-bvijOl8vW3CJOJf6e32HHtNn5-BxzqfZZvWtEt5PoPl7ck4POiaPlrSzJUSEvHIgLRAGzCnzVO9a1kHnm5jX59lBsY9IAEKOaCZOt_A2qKnWJE/s640/IMG_6974.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />It was almost surreal as we sat there feasting in the sand during sunset with living music playing, a bonfire roaring and lanterns lit.  We missed our friends that made those backyard clambakes so great, but loved celebrating our first clambake with Emma.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0M7EX0Pv6Dwx7Fc38jxbeuPdshjZi0CP16Xt6S4gv7p_NM0H7GNvv7Je07dLyklY-FNl5Ze3aWlvCcPBRTvXx5eAb71KRejWMir2eeqCxcXGrRsh0XjuruTtB6Buimaz-IppebT0RNAA/s1600/jenny+emma+at+clambake.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0M7EX0Pv6Dwx7Fc38jxbeuPdshjZi0CP16Xt6S4gv7p_NM0H7GNvv7Je07dLyklY-FNl5Ze3aWlvCcPBRTvXx5eAb71KRejWMir2eeqCxcXGrRsh0XjuruTtB6Buimaz-IppebT0RNAA/s640/jenny+emma+at+clambake.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Surreal.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7CwZhdSKEO1W659utUL2eIBZtLob-171PjqNl3D_CM9G8ZJpZ5dD7mTwcsiYR99-wiiCeVi8V7kCH34fH9e3zONB1pg4qD8RFvYpGP-bS0CG2HFKTq4n0FfztqndHeZJAni6_Ez1_GUi/s1600/IMG_6970.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7CwZhdSKEO1W659utUL2eIBZtLob-171PjqNl3D_CM9G8ZJpZ5dD7mTwcsiYR99-wiiCeVi8V7kCH34fH9e3zONB1pg4qD8RFvYpGP-bS0CG2HFKTq4n0FfztqndHeZJAni6_Ez1_GUi/s640/IMG_6970.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Snuggled, getting ready to drift off...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRk7tRaHX6N_U5QuowtjYboJ8GqosxjtuNvqL1-39Axh5s1O2V_uXUl4efZwCMSRfoYOHl5CVgjfaaTzcw-TjNtQ1czMVDs-pqao4N3WohyMsyRsF4QjpZQuX9eYvjWY-3vYbIpxcmtTLu/s1600/IMG_6996.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRk7tRaHX6N_U5QuowtjYboJ8GqosxjtuNvqL1-39Axh5s1O2V_uXUl4efZwCMSRfoYOHl5CVgjfaaTzcw-TjNtQ1czMVDs-pqao4N3WohyMsyRsF4QjpZQuX9eYvjWY-3vYbIpxcmtTLu/s640/IMG_6996.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Enter: Daddy  <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3dEfa0p9FxUV_bZTmd4LhTj7oWtOqlf1pEEy6tc11vvb7_IrtrEe7SkVBBXGGULxLKYNtviHvG_ab5_SpcfhyphenhyphenHzOiW1JrBXRfhEifLFICYKMCbwpy7uE01LOZXc-fjf8HYNyuNQEeLvG/s1600/IMG_6971.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3dEfa0p9FxUV_bZTmd4LhTj7oWtOqlf1pEEy6tc11vvb7_IrtrEe7SkVBBXGGULxLKYNtviHvG_ab5_SpcfhyphenhyphenHzOiW1JrBXRfhEifLFICYKMCbwpy7uE01LOZXc-fjf8HYNyuNQEeLvG/s640/IMG_6971.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />And time for s'mores.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GiSs47bsCE4anMDAofY96uXzw0IvmxVMotpKZnZ7xrelqKpEV0ZDDSIMCjuOTIIe35qrD9_MTnAACe6uYyZ60qPWcpVPLFd3XoheKiD_x3Z2UVsvzju58uzCf5j_GdeIwUd93OWpyOHW/s1600/IMG_7002.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GiSs47bsCE4anMDAofY96uXzw0IvmxVMotpKZnZ7xrelqKpEV0ZDDSIMCjuOTIIe35qrD9_MTnAACe6uYyZ60qPWcpVPLFd3XoheKiD_x3Z2UVsvzju58uzCf5j_GdeIwUd93OWpyOHW/s640/IMG_7002.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />The view as we walked back to our cottage.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qq-jWB7wsYKkL3J5Hn9EhTTSF6H_kopFYdsYuKTynbOXoSXjhxIao116coRw_c8jvyLRKDbJ0CIsIbXWkPOtxA1-zBmWMXyMRqrbQy3Yj0dRhc_qiam-YFZH9Hp9WOh9lbgELcKDUFOX/s1600/IMG_6999.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qq-jWB7wsYKkL3J5Hn9EhTTSF6H_kopFYdsYuKTynbOXoSXjhxIao116coRw_c8jvyLRKDbJ0CIsIbXWkPOtxA1-zBmWMXyMRqrbQy3Yj0dRhc_qiam-YFZH9Hp9WOh9lbgELcKDUFOX/s640/IMG_6999.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /> A great weekend.

Cape Cod Weekend | A Classic New England Clambake & Emma on the Beach

**I'm re-sharing this post from our trip last Memorial Day Weekend to Cape Cod. This year in our Cape Cod-style house we've hosted two parties and will have attended two others by the weekend's end of both new and old friends. While I miss our vacation lifestyle with weekend excursions to fabulous…

27May2013

New Tile

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxpTO554vN3QEM4mbrQ-3FQAhd9RirTBxBwKiHxvNREWds4VBXqvetKQIIkiTMjYbyO02pyFvnvOmIR2iypnhn2j9aFq9nmaYjz-h0yL6IXDQh3zcSF_yilquOMpXb3vDaWLnoNU7y4Y/s1600/IMG_0451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxpTO554vN3QEM4mbrQ-3FQAhd9RirTBxBwKiHxvNREWds4VBXqvetKQIIkiTMjYbyO02pyFvnvOmIR2iypnhn2j9aFq9nmaYjz-h0yL6IXDQh3zcSF_yilquOMpXb3vDaWLnoNU7y4Y/s400/IMG_0451.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got new tile today...from Roma Tile in Watertown.  The other tile store wouldn't</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">take back the other floor tile because it was "special order."  That was news to me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And there's nothing on their invoice to state a special order could not be exchanged</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">or returned.  I may pursue it but thankfully the cost isn't a huge deal in the scheme</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">of things.  I'll probably donate it to a charity when I donate my kitchen appliances.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_bKbuiTsrK30EgsQehkY9rDE6_tc4o1u_gb38mReUkUGseA4IKciuAInxkhwgjILqOzIAaCKXWXLN53dcDDgRv6JcbjsAfwUcvdBOY1gZ52t0hNvsXEh-DEpd_H89uLajRHhyJLRBgY/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="529" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_bKbuiTsrK30EgsQehkY9rDE6_tc4o1u_gb38mReUkUGseA4IKciuAInxkhwgjILqOzIAaCKXWXLN53dcDDgRv6JcbjsAfwUcvdBOY1gZ52t0hNvsXEh-DEpd_H89uLajRHhyJLRBgY/s640/IMG_0456.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The people at Roma were much more helpful and gave me samples so</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I could see everything in my house which makes all the difference in the world.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new floor tile is Sant'Agostino Ferro, a ceramic tile from Italy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The color is called black but it's a dark gray with subtle striations of lighter</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">gray and a tiny but of rust.  I got it in 6-inch by 24-inch pieces which I'll</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">stack in a grid pattern.  And it was a very reasonable $8.95 per square foot.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Although it could lean to a very modern setting...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpfeC239GcmzNWw36f6ozmknmBBA42wKNrHAsLQqHzLPsV-5_BkQeztQT4fuyQiaW_FVsZ6nX39V4vuxG_KqGuJiTeJzTsSiSS9YTXVaWlRKHuLCxjMaJp-Rmah7FQ1UbnjB1I2rAVDw/s1600/grayflannel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpfeC239GcmzNWw36f6ozmknmBBA42wKNrHAsLQqHzLPsV-5_BkQeztQT4fuyQiaW_FVsZ6nX39V4vuxG_KqGuJiTeJzTsSiSS9YTXVaWlRKHuLCxjMaJp-Rmah7FQ1UbnjB1I2rAVDw/s400/grayflannel.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...I think it has very traditional soapstone associations.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I actually also see it as foundation of gray flannel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The white subway tile will be a crisp white cotton shirt. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And with a Greek key belt.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm much more comfortable with this choice.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNT9EHMqj-XDHfoFaD0zi_jsJJ-0NbJl8Fcuwx20PaT5EiWRDU9-L7JUPc6zP6mNKz_YM4BJZDPohQ3H2XmAxgCiwACBy7tjqqgLuasctrQPizRce41tkkBuhXYTYmWsH5ScLVlg3Vpk/s1600/IMG_0441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNT9EHMqj-XDHfoFaD0zi_jsJJ-0NbJl8Fcuwx20PaT5EiWRDU9-L7JUPc6zP6mNKz_YM4BJZDPohQ3H2XmAxgCiwACBy7tjqqgLuasctrQPizRce41tkkBuhXYTYmWsH5ScLVlg3Vpk/s640/IMG_0441.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The plumbing and electrical work have begun and I hope to have</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the inspections completed next week so we can start closing up the walls.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I thought the beams in the ceiling just outside the bathroom were worth showing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not only are they gorgeous but there's some markings carved into them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm not exactly sure what they mean but I think it's some method of keeping</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">track of which beams go where or some kind of checks-and-balances system to</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">ensure that all joists were pegged in to the main beams.  There are very </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">few of these big major beams and as much as I love them, their placement</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">just didn't make sense leaving them exposed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Bah_70t8xHLY8M6JFuRoYmlRkxcnhDbSbkTE9yKfl79qka7mkN_jB27kGiyTKWqOHzW5ALx2AtHhPuqde4VjcHR4jgp6wgqxzhv-w8XDSi-1BfoWDWojW4aFXwFlBqVzGp56P01Pk7E/s1600/IMG_0448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Bah_70t8xHLY8M6JFuRoYmlRkxcnhDbSbkTE9yKfl79qka7mkN_jB27kGiyTKWqOHzW5ALx2AtHhPuqde4VjcHR4jgp6wgqxzhv-w8XDSi-1BfoWDWojW4aFXwFlBqVzGp56P01Pk7E/s640/IMG_0448.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, finally, thank you all for your well wishes for Angus!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">He just had his follow-up visit to the ophthalmologist and he's</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">healed very well.  The surgery cost about the same as a </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Shaw sink and Rohl bridge faucet but it was well worth it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the happy boy this morning.  He's one handsome dude.</div></div>

New Tile

I got new tile today...from Roma Tile in Watertown. The other tile store wouldn'ttake back the other floor tile because it was "special order." That was news to me.And there's nothing on their invoice to state a special order could not be exchangedor returned. I may pursue it but thankfully the c…

26May2013

Grilled Romaine Lettuce | Summer Grilling

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Gx-RHDmutsmQNFOrb8s4WcTlMIH0rq68xD-SGrojoft6Z5MXM_pcorqrRNFfV9gcwrcu5nc6nTE20zw0tFVcWJw7Mvgw4XNfZ4BgttyHsy-FuI3-HjqOlZqqFmtbZc_j_KxqQP0sIdA/s1600/IMG_0805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Gx-RHDmutsmQNFOrb8s4WcTlMIH0rq68xD-SGrojoft6Z5MXM_pcorqrRNFfV9gcwrcu5nc6nTE20zw0tFVcWJw7Mvgw4XNfZ4BgttyHsy-FuI3-HjqOlZqqFmtbZc_j_KxqQP0sIdA/s640/IMG_0805.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fgrilled-romaine-lettuce-summer-grilling.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-7qN_vH74P4U%2FUZ5BlJCSngI%2FAAAAAAAASf8%2FqLx2YR99SgQ%2Fs640%2Fgrilled-romaine.jpg&description=Grilled%20Romaine%20Lettuce%20Salad"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />When I was in college I worked at a Micro-Brewery (Flatbranch for my fellow Mizzou folks...) and there they served a grilled romaine salad.  As this was around 13 years ago, I know that grilled salads are not new to most of you... but I had never actually tried one until a few weeks ago.  We had dinner with my brother and his Claire at one of our local favorite spots - <a href="http://gramanddun.com/">Gram and Dun</a>.  (It is a sort of chic comfort food type place with great drinks.  You might remember, last year I shared my version of their <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/02/shrimp-in-chorizo-white-wine-tomato.html">Chorizo & Mussels</a>.)  Along with the mussels (again!), I ordered their grilled salad that I've been anxious to recreate.<br /><br />My version starts with a basting liquid with rosemary, lemon and garlic that you brush over before and after grilling.  After the grill, I squeezed with fresh lemon and topped with parmesan cheese.  Sooooo good.  The slight grilled rosemary flavor is really special with the freshness of the lemon and lettuce. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCP_qmyBn4cmsUK0AkGi6kAZQ-KBwqUXvwfearueYi67myuvP-Avdc23mXOuLemCtDLYHPG33egVQsbKmGJ5ene7j6LUUCnIvIBh2dSh5OQ77KNnSQf8LJjZqk0ZULQyUl84aNwgAifk/s1600/grilled-romaine.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCP_qmyBn4cmsUK0AkGi6kAZQ-KBwqUXvwfearueYi67myuvP-Avdc23mXOuLemCtDLYHPG33egVQsbKmGJ5ene7j6LUUCnIvIBh2dSh5OQ77KNnSQf8LJjZqk0ZULQyUl84aNwgAifk/s640/grilled-romaine.jpg" width="426" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Grilled Romaine Salad</i></span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fgrilled-romaine-lettuce-summer-grilling.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-7qN_vH74P4U%2FUZ5BlJCSngI%2FAAAAAAAASf8%2FqLx2YR99SgQ%2Fs640%2Fgrilled-romaine.jpg&description=Grilled%20Romaine%20Lettuce%20Salad"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />1/2 cup of olive oil<br />1 lemon, juice & zest <br />1 tablespoon of rosemary, minced<br />1 teaspoon of garlic, minced<br />sea salt<br />cracked pepper<br />....<br />2 small-ish heads of romaine (I used the pre-packaged hearts)<br />1 lemon, quartered<br />1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, fresh grated <br />cherry tomatoes <br /><br />Start grill or prepare coals.  While the grill is heating up...<br /><br />Wash and dry the romaine lettuce.  Cut in half length-wise.  Mix together the oil, lemon zest and juice, rosemary, garlic, salt and pepper.  Brush mixture on the cut side of the lettuce.  <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSzx4dzAqHN1590UfZQRhfveQ1mF_IbJVI_8XyE6acNIDL87HKBmdSoz0eXt4cIhKCu2YltnzwxfIzCigRmjcvGKzMvfatjqWGEEz-UN2xlU2Xpt5suLAle7Hdh6o2GHORlKeY0YzaMc/s1600/IMG_0785.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSzx4dzAqHN1590UfZQRhfveQ1mF_IbJVI_8XyE6acNIDL87HKBmdSoz0eXt4cIhKCu2YltnzwxfIzCigRmjcvGKzMvfatjqWGEEz-UN2xlU2Xpt5suLAle7Hdh6o2GHORlKeY0YzaMc/s640/IMG_0785.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Grill lettuce, cut side down for 2-4 minutes (depending on the temp of your grill) just until grill marks appear.  Remove from grill and brush again with liquid.  Top with tomatoes, squeeze of lemon and parmesan cheese. <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Grilled Romaine Lettuce | Summer Grilling

When I was in college I worked at a Micro-Brewery (Flatbranch for my fellow Mizzou folks...) and there they served a grilled romaine salad. As this was around 13 years ago, I know that grilled salads are not new to most of you... but I had never actually tried one until a few weeks ago. We had din…

24May2013

Grilled Tomato, Goat Cheese, Fresh Sweet Corn & Basil Appetizer

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzwHu57m_tlOcPXOX4WhegoUblrdyi6jlEd4gaFUBQV_RXDwJTGpn9pnhW-Qt0zU_OPNfyV9vAnp1Y6ziEUOUPboMa0-e07L0YPQEncghOOaeQ8LKsaVObiZiLMi-l1Ji8RQfVvdLRm1E/s1600/goat-cheese-tomato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzwHu57m_tlOcPXOX4WhegoUblrdyi6jlEd4gaFUBQV_RXDwJTGpn9pnhW-Qt0zU_OPNfyV9vAnp1Y6ziEUOUPboMa0-e07L0YPQEncghOOaeQ8LKsaVObiZiLMi-l1Ji8RQfVvdLRm1E/s640/goat-cheese-tomato.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fgrilled-tomato-goat-cheese-fresh-sweet.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-R015nSnHa_A%2FUZ4kYS8Vh6I%2FAAAAAAAASfI%2FxeqaBVRLUdc%2Fs640%2Fgoat-cheese-tomato.jpg&description=Grilled%20Tomato%2C%20Goat%20Cheese%2C%20Fresh%20Sweet%20Corn%20%26%20Basil%20Appetizer%20"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />I'm always looking for new fresh ways to serve our favorites - Tomatoes, Sweet Corn & Basil.  During the summer we get tired of just sliced tomatoes and corn on the cob - somehow - though it seems impossible right now.  This little appetizer is an amazing combo of everything we love.  Grilling the tomato adds a slight smokiness, and warms the goat cheese, offset by the cold and crunchy sweet corn kernels and fresh basil.  Though I don't always serve plated starters when we have friends for dinner, sometimes I come across something so special, it is worth washing the extra dish.  You can also serve this as a traditional shared appetizer if you cut it into wedges and serve it with grilled bread... which I think I'll do for a party this Friday.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilyOQQ7qxaNflZwBl1WsINRSFelqaPrEyWHNpLJ3koVWVwcdPUKb81tq7wZb7SbJD7nlVR-mdZ6McBVNRHONdZco3hVjQtCZH5HzLJuPdiQAmdfo-0pNaPojhUsgtmGhwj_y2Qy-bKDvM/s1600/IMG_0825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilyOQQ7qxaNflZwBl1WsINRSFelqaPrEyWHNpLJ3koVWVwcdPUKb81tq7wZb7SbJD7nlVR-mdZ6McBVNRHONdZco3hVjQtCZH5HzLJuPdiQAmdfo-0pNaPojhUsgtmGhwj_y2Qy-bKDvM/s400/IMG_0825.JPG" width="290" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><i>Grilled Tomato, Goat Cheese, </i></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Fresh Sweet Corn & Basil Appetizer </i></span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fgrilled-tomato-goat-cheese-fresh-sweet.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-R015nSnHa_A%2FUZ4kYS8Vh6I%2FAAAAAAAASfI%2FxeqaBVRLUdc%2Fs640%2Fgoat-cheese-tomato.jpg&description=Grilled%20Tomato%2C%20Goat%20Cheese%2C%20Fresh%20Sweet%20Corn%20%26%20Basil%20Appetizer%20"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />4 thick slices of tomato - firm enough to grill<br />1/2 cup of olive oil<br />2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice<br />1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar<br />1 clove of garlic<br />1/2 teaspoon of sea salt<br />1/2 teaspoon of cracked pepper<br />4 ounces of goat cheese<br />1 ear of sweet corn, kernels cut off<br />2 tablespoons of basil<br /><br />Place the 4 slices of tomato on a pan or plate ready to go to the grill.  In a small bowl make the brushing liquid by stirring together oil, lemon juice, vinegar garlic salt and pepper.  Brush on both sides of the tomato.<br /><br />Grill tomato for 2 minutes, then flip.  After flipping, top tomato with goat cheese (a little goes a long way...) and more of the lemon garlic oil.  Grill for 2-3 more minutes until the goat cheese is warm and soft.  Remove from the grill.  Plate and sprinkle on fresh corn cut from the cob and basil.  Drizzle on more of the lemon garlic liquid.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVyKO9nY34EmFqZQRxhW3gVZKwch9-nGECrCLkr2g3z-IxQSptf7MldVlvKFwsMQZGuMTIxgpj6iLMArDMe9kK3d1pUi6GZFFOcBDl1zHcIiEqHeycMLkodYWYIBQpThr9Uzhf4jW-RSA/s1600/IMG_0841.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVyKO9nY34EmFqZQRxhW3gVZKwch9-nGECrCLkr2g3z-IxQSptf7MldVlvKFwsMQZGuMTIxgpj6iLMArDMe9kK3d1pUi6GZFFOcBDl1zHcIiEqHeycMLkodYWYIBQpThr9Uzhf4jW-RSA/s640/IMG_0841.JPG" width="640" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Grilled Tomato, Goat Cheese, Fresh Sweet Corn & Basil Appetizer

I'm always looking for new fresh ways to serve our favorites - Tomatoes, Sweet Corn & Basil. During the summer we get tired of just sliced tomatoes and corn on the cob - somehow - though it seems impossible right now. This little appetizer is an amazing combo of everything we love. Grilling the t…

23May2013

The BEST Brownies... Truffle Brownies | LG EasyClean Oven Range

The BEST Brownies... Truffle Brownies | LG EasyClean Oven Range

Last month, I shared one of my "Messy Recipes" (a recipe book or card that was splattered with ingredients from being used over and over again) from my little blue book that was my journal during my catering days - it contained all of my favorite recipes that I made over and over for my clients. We…

22May2013