Tis the Season...

to head out of town! My love arrived in town on Friday and we're heading up to his mom's for a few days before coming back home to celebrate the season with my family.

I just wanted to wish all my fellow bloggers a very Merry Christmas!

Grandad's Pick: Mince Tarts.

Grandad loves Mince Tarts and Nanny really wasn't into baking them for him this year! I used the same pastry recipe as Dad's butter tarts, and filled them with premade mincemeat. Grandad thouroughly enjoyed them!

Wordless Wednesday.

Parasailing in Cancun - 2007 - Best week ever!

Dad's Pick: Butter Tarts.

My dad loves Butter Tarts so naturally, he wanted me to attempt to make them. When I asked him what made good butter tarts, he said "they need to be creamy." As someone who doesn't enjoy this particular baked good, it's hard to know what exactly he means by creamy. I figured I had to start somewhere, so here we began. They got two thumbs up, although I have yet to get feedback as to whether they are, in fact, creamy.




Butter Tarts
makes approx. 16

Ingredients:

Filling

1 cup raisins
1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs, lightly beaten

Pastry

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 Tbsp. icing sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup shortening
1 Tbsp. white vinegar
2 Tbsp. ice water
1 egg

Method:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

To make the pastry, sift flour, icing sugar, and salt into a large mixing bowl. Pinch shortening into small cubes and rub lightly into the flour mixture until broken into crumbly pieces. Whisk vinegar, ice water, and egg with a fork in a separate bowl. Pour around edges of flour mix and pull together to form a ball. Flatten into 2 disks and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Roll out to 1/8" thick and cut 4" round. Form circles into small muffin pan.

For the filling, combine raisins, butter, sugar, syrup, and salt in a heavy saucepan. Heat on the stove at low heat until butter is melted and the mix is warm. Remove from heat. Add vanilla and eggs. Fill the muffin pan 2/3 full. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Childhood Desires.

I always received amazing presents from Santa my parents, but regardless of how blessed you are, there is always something you didn't get. While shopping down in the States on Sunday, I was ridiculously excited when I came across the Candy Land game. I never had it as a child but always wanted it! Now as a 24 year old adult, here I am purchasing a game for those 3+. Go figure.

I remember my favourite toy, which I received from Santa, was an Ariel doll. She sang and was the greatest thing ever, at that time. I noticed that year, that my Santa present was wrapped in the same paper as another gift under the tree, so I think my believing Santa started to falter around then. He did good on his last year though!

Was there a toy you desperately wanted as a child? Have you fulfilled your want? What was your favourite present ever as a child?

Mom's Pick: Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.

Mom requested Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies which got my Christmas baking off to the right start! They are delicious!




Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies
Makes approx. 20

Ingredients:

1 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour
1 cup chocolate chips

Method:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Mix butter, sugar, vanilla, and flour until it forms into a ball. Add chocolate chips. Roll into 1" balls and bake for 10-15 minutes.

Enjoy!

Christmas Yummies.

I used to be the Grinch. I was the little girl who yelled "Christmas is officially OVER!" as soon as I'd unwrapped my gifts. I couldn't feel the festive spirit - but that has all changed.

There is something about being able to decorate your own space regardless of how small it may be. Baking in your very own kitchen also adds some inspiration and spirit of Christmas. Having someone to love and enjoy the holidays with makes all the difference too. I couldn't be more excited to have Dan come home for Christmas so we can spend a reasonable amount of time together enjoying one of the best times of the year.

Classes are over, presents are wrapped and now I'm spending my time trying to busy myself which really isn't that difficult of a task. I have the Christmas baking bug. Right now, I'm catering to family requests. Last night I baked Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies for my mom and Butter Tarts for my dad. From what I've heard, butter tarts are a Canadian thing. To my American lovelies, do you eat them? I'm not fond because I don't like raisins, but they're a big hit with the raisin lovers!

Tonight I'm going to be baking Mincemeat Tarts for my Grandad and later this week will be making Oreo Rice Krispies Squares for my sister. All of this baking will help time fly before my love comes home!

Watch for some yummy posts this week!

What are your favourite holiday treats? Any suggestions for things to bake?

MIA.

Wow. I seriously never thought I would neglect my precious bloggy this bad.

It's almost mid December. Can someone tell me how this happened? No complaints from this girl. Only one week until Dan comes home! I couldn't be more excited to spend three weeks of uninterrupted time with him.

I finished my last final today and I am thankful classes are over for Christmas! January 4th is going to come way too quick but I only have two more semesters to go!

It's time for me to hit the hay and get some beauty sleep before work tomorrow. I just wanted to stop in and let you know that I haven't forgotten you and I'll be around more, I promise.

Lazy Saturday.

First of all, Happy Birthday Dan!!! He's stuck in the field for five days, but I still have to send him some birthday love!

I'm seriously not feeling work today. I wrote up my answer to a discussion for school about monitoring employees internet access at work awhile ago. Ironic, huh?

I'm also sort of annoyed. Most of you know by now, that I'm heading to Thailand in June to volunteer in a baby home. A couple people have said "why wouldn't you just volunteer at home. People here need help too." Hearing this is somewhat counterproductive. I'm really not trying to take it personal, but I feel like saying to them, "oh, so where is it you volunteer again?" fully knowing they don't at all. Honestly, I work my butt off, go to school, and I'd really like to do a little good while vacationing somewhere I love. What's so bad about that? So, to the people who think they need to offer me your opinion? Don't.

Here is a photo of me in Thailand. Man, I love that place.

In other news, finals are coming up in a few weeks and I'm ridiculously excited for this semester to be over! Major studying begins Monday!

Five for Friday.

1. You thank me for every little piece of mail I send, even if it's just a silly card.

2. You stick up for me.

3. You told me you didn't want to be selfish, but you want to spend as much time with me as possible over Christmas.

4. You take care of me even from far away.

5. You made me the most delicious breakfast when you came home a couple weeks ago and I know you secretly loved that I took a picture to use for my Five for Friday. It was so yummy.

Postcard Swap!

In general, I have just sucked at life lately. I mean, I'm happy...but not so my posting has been taking the brunt of it. I swear I'll get back into the swing of things! Thankfully this semester is almost over, and I'm less than a month away from having Dan home for a whole three weeks.

Amidst all of that, I signed up for Jess' Postcard Swap! I love her fun blog events! So fun. Anyway, I received my postcard this week! Seriously, who doesn't love mail that isn't someone wanting your money? It is wonderous.

I was lucky enough to receive a postcard from my dear friend Abby! She lives in Baltimore, and that is where my postcard is from. I love it! Thank you, Abby!

If you really love receiving postcards in the mail, I highly suggest you join Postcrossing. I joined at the beginning of the year as part of my 101 in 1001 (which failed, by the way) but I still participate randomly when I come across some fun postcards!

First Award!

Good morning lovelies!

I received my very first award for this blog from a new blogger friend, Kelsey - The Stylish Blogger Award!

Isn't it cute? It reminds me of SATC! Upon receiving this award, I'm supposed to tell you seven things you don't know about me! I'll follow Kelsey in making those facts style related!

1. I adore scarves. In the winter, and even cool summer days, you will find me wearing one. My favourites are made from wool, but I also love my light summer scarves from Afghanistan.

2. My favourite clothing staple this season is my faux leather jacket from Guess. It's adorable and one of the best quality faux leather jackets out there, in my opinion!

3. One item I have to splurge on is good quality jeans!

4. It is fashion over function when it comes to shoes! On one of my first dates with Dan, he took me to the beach where I wore these adorable four inch heels. He probably doesn't even remember, but I had to impress!

5. I wore flip flops up until last week. Aside from the sun, they're my favourite part about summer! I'm looking forward to stocking up when I go back to Thailand!

6. I have an obsession with colour matching. It's dangerous.

7. I secretly wish I could live in New York (actually, I'd rather London) and be a fashionista like Carrie Bradshaw wearing the latest and greatest!

I feel like I have a million exciting things to share with you all! I have been in somewhat of a posting funk lately, but I need to get out of it! I hope you're all having a fabulous week!

Wordless Wednesday.

Wordless Wednesday.

Where have I been?

Well, blog friends, I guess it's about time for a real update.

For the past two weeks or so, I have been beyond consumed with studying for midterms. The studying has proved successful and now I'm going to enjoy the last six weeks of classes before finals and then Christmas break!

I'm currently enjoying a week with my love! He had some leave he had to take, so I have him for a whole week! Time feels like it's going way too fast, but I'm very thankful that I'm able to take some time off to spend with him. I'm a very happy girl right now!

Thai donations are also coming in full swing! My Uncle Mike and Auntie Helen made a $100 donation which was incredibly generous! Thank you both so much! The spare change jar (or vase...haha) at work filled up for the first time today, so it has been emptied so I can tally it up and start again! Look for the photo in my Wordless Wednesday post tomorrow!

Happy November!

Wordless Wednesday.

No more thank you. Only six hours to go.

Five for Friday.

1. You'll be here this time next week. I cannot tell you how excited I am.
2. Thinking about seeing you makes me unable to focus on things I should be focusing on - like studying!
3. I'm excited that the next time I talk to you, I'll be seeing you shortly after! Still not liking the field...
4. Almost three months down.
5. Oh, and you'll be here this time next week. See #2. I cannot focus!

My list is really disappointing this week because I am SO distracted! Bye bye upcoming week! I want you gone. :)

Wordless Wednesday.

It's quite a bit less than this now!

Happy Sunday!

It is a beautiful fall day here today! It's chilly but sunny. We are very lucky!

I thought I'd update you all on the two crates of bottles I received earlier this week. I spent a couple hours bagging and sorting them and then an hour and a half at the bottle depot yesterday afternoon (thank you for your help, mom!) to discover that all of those little gems were worth 93 dollars and 30 cents!! Thank you again, Mark and Doreen!

I am receiving so many wonderful donations, that I think a weekly donation post will turn into a blog ritual. Look for more exciting news coming up this week!

Five for Friday.

When you come home I can't wait to...

1. Cook for you! I'm going to thoroughly enjoy throwing away my "meal for one" go-to dinners that I make and have some inspiration in the kitchen again!

2. Celebrate your birthday - early! I already know where we're going for your birthday dinner. :)

3. Spend an entire day (or multiple days!) with you just being us!

4. Cross off the three month mark on the calendar and have my countdown at zero (at least for a week)!

5. Be truly, 100% happy because you're with me.

Absolutely amazing news.

How could I not feel like the luckiest girl in the world right now? Honestly. I am so blessed. I swear I'm still living on cloud 9 knowing Dan will be home in two short weeks and then today I received a very special delivery!

The baby home that I'll be volunteering at in Thailand is in desperate need of diapers, formula and all necessities for babies so in order to do all that I can, I thought I'd fundraise! I sent out an e-mail last week to all of my family and friends telling them about my trip and my fundraising initiatives by holding a bottle drive. I have received change and bottles from many people throughout the past week and I am so gracious!

Amongst the people I e-mailed, were Mark and Doreen, business partners of my dad. Doreen responded to me upon receiving my e-mail telling me they had ten garbage bags full of recycling and Mark would bring them to me at work! I was elated - ten garbage bags?! That's amazing. Well, friends, look at what Mark dropped off today.

Seriously. They rock. Having their support and the support from everyone who throws some change my way, or the odd bottle, will really make a difference. I am so appreciative of their support and so lucky to have such wonderful, generous people in my life.

Thank you to Mark and Doreen, and everyone who donates for helping me in my dream.

Happy Day.

Today I'm ridiculously happy because I just found out that in a couple short weeks I'll receive a visit from my favourite! I can't wait. He'll be in the field until then, but I'll be busy with midterms so Dan time will be here before I know it! Yay!

Wordless Wednesday.

My study hang out.

Happy Thanksgiving!

This weekend I'll be busy celebrating Thanksgiving (the Canadian version!)

Many people might wonder why on Earth we don't have the same Thanksgiving Day as the United States. Well, our harvest comes earlier in the year! Originally, the Canadian Parliament set aside November 6th for annual Thanksgiving observances in 1879. In 1957, the date was shifted to an earlier day, the second Monday in October.

I hope all of my Canadian friends have a very happy Thanksgiving filled with lots of family, love, and yummy food!

Five for Friday.

I miss...

1. Talking with you. I don't like "the field" and I'm over it.
2. Driving in "Molly" with you. (That's what I named your truck, just in case you forget.)
3. Cooking for you.
4. Holding your hand.
5. Seeing you all the time. This sucks big time.

ps. I'm a downer today.

Wordless Wednesday.

First tuk tuk ride in Thailand with Stacey!

A Review: lululemon athletica

It needs to be done. A review on my favourite company. I have a slight obsession. Okay, maybe more than slight. I buy one type of workout clothing and one type only - Lululemon.

Lululemon can be found virtually everywhere these days. They sell their technical work out gear at over 100 stores in Canada, the US, Australia, and Hong Kong. They also ship worldwide. The company was founded in Vancouver, B.C. (Yeah!!) in 1998 and has been growing non-stop ever since!

I own a few pairs of their pants, crops, shorts, hoodies and skirts - even an overnight bag too! Wearing their clothing is like wearing a second skin. You know those days where you just don't feel like pulling up a pair of jeans? Lululemon's Groove Pants are there to save you! Maybe you're travelling to the other side of the world? Your Groove Crops will keep you comfortable!

Now that I'm running quite frequently, I've been looking to test out some different pieces from their line. Lately, I've been running in their Speed Short. They are beyond comfortable. My who favourite things about these shorts are 1. They don't ride up. You won't have to adjust them while working out. Pull them down, pull them up - you name it- you won't have to do it. 2. They have a zippered pocket for keys, money, etc. I am usually running to work, so having a place to put my house key is a huge bonus!

Last week, I bought a running skirt! I bought their Revitalize Skirt in black. I can't wait to try it while running to work tomorrow morning. I did try it on and it's so cute and comfortable. You could really wear this anywhere pre or post workout! The elastic on the liner has grip action to keep the shorts in place.

A not so secret tip? Check out their "we made too much" section of their site for some amazing deals! The selection changes rather frequently as they sell out of some products and add others so check back often!

Not only are you purchasing an amazing product but you also receive one of these adorable reusable bags with any purchase!





If you're not already a Lululemon fan, I suggest you try their products. I have no doubt you will fall in love!

Something Greater - Part Two.

Today is Sunday. The same day I declared Business Law day earlier this week. Well, I haven't yet looked at my Law text or study guide so I may as well continue on my journey of procrastination and tell you my plans to date for my volunteer trip!

1. I'm definitely going to Thailand.
2. I'm going to spend my time working in a baby home.
3. I have a volunteer buddy!

As number one states, I am definitely going to volunteer in Thailand. It looks like I'll be leaving at the beginning of June and I'm thinking I'll stay for a month. I have thought about volunteering for two weeks and then traveling down south to go see those amazing Thai beaches again! There were a few islands I haven't seen, so I would like to visit at least a couple of them. I'm going to leave it somewhat open (at this point at least) so I can do exactly what I want!



The orphanage I will volunteer at is called Pakkred Babies Home near Bangkok. I would share the website with you, but it is in Thai so it won't be much good to you. If you google the home you can find more info. They take in babies and children up to five years old that don't have a home. Many of these children are adopted by Americans or British parents so they encourage visits from foreigners (or "farangs" as us Westerners are known as in Thailand!)


Some of the most exciting news I have to tell you! I'm not going alone. I originally asked Dan to come with me on this journey. Unfortunately, the night I asked him to come he was being rather distant and wouldn't commit. This made me slightly angry (okay, maybe more than slightly) and he ended up telling me he was going to Afghanistan. I understood. It's a calling he feels within himself so he must go. I have yet to talk to him about this adventure since he was in the field all last week and this coming week. I'm looking forward to telling him on Friday or Saturday when he's finally done. I didn't think of asking anyone else to come with me and figured I would meet people there and make friends just like last time. But, what if one of those wonderful people I met last time had the urge to go back? Guess who is coming with me? Stacey! I mentioned her in my last post and really all throughout my blog that I kept while I was there.

After reading my previous post, Stacey told me how excited she was to hear of my adventure. We sent a few messages back and forth, I asked her if she'd like to come, and as it turns out, it is something she has always longed to do as well!

Fun facts about Stacey:

1. Her birthday is July 3rd which just so happens to be mine.
2. Her fiance is named Dan.
3. Her Dan is also in the military! They just happened to be from the United Kingdom.
4. Clearly she loves Thailand just as much as I do!

It really is a match made in heaven. Do you want to know the strangest part? The night before I chatted with Stacey about all of this, she was in my dream. I don't remember why or what she was doing there, but while talking with her, it jolted my memory that I had "seen" her recently.

That is all I have to share with you for now. I will definitely keep you all updated on my trip as I make plans!

So long...

...first two months! It's nice to see you go! Can't wait until Christmas!

Five for Friday.

I love that...

1. You text me from the field last night even though we fully expected not to have communication due to lack of reception. I don't even know if you got my text back but I hope you did!
2. Every time we talk you tell me to say 'hi' to everyone. I usually forget to pass the message along. But, when I do remember, I do admit to forgetting and tell them you say hi all the time.
3. You want to go on some sort of vacation when you're home for Christmas regardless of how short it might end up being.
4. You text me at a ridiculous time in the morning on Monday before you went out to the field just in case you didn't have reception. :)
5. You listen to my crazy stories, rants, and excitement over the silliest things!

ps. We're almost two months down!
pps. Stay tuned for more details on my volunteer trip next week!

Wordy Wednesday - Something Greater.

I'm sorry I haven't been around a lot lately! School is back in full swing and when I'm not working, I'm reading textbooks and writing papers for class. I have been pondering something lately and feel passionate enough to share it with you.




First of all, I love my life. I love my job, I love being busy with school, I love everything. With that being said, I feel like there is a greater purpose for my life. I don't feel like I was put on this planet to just work, go to school, and in general, be a good person. I want to help create change. I can feel it in my heart, in fact, when I think about it I'm somewhat overwhelmed with emotion. I just can't quite figure out where exactly I'm supposed to be taking these feelings.


My trip to Thailand in 2009 (Did you miss it? See my Thailand blog here.) was originally supposed to be a volunteer trip. Somewhere amidst the planning, I decided I just needed Ashley time and I was going to spend that month living for me. Honestly, it was absolutely amazing and I wouldn't change that trip for the world. I met some amazing people who remain in my life today - most importantly Stacey (hello my most precious British friend!) who was my roommate for the month and somehow put up with me. My heart still calls to Thailand. If you've been there, you might understand my pull to go back. But this time, it needs to be for different reasons. This is something I feel I need to do within the next year while I'm free to roam (you know - no mortgage, kids, or serious life commitments aside from Dan.) I will be planning within the next few months so stay tuned for more details!


Have you ever volunteered overseas? If so, where? If not, what would be your choice of country to volunteer in and what would you do?

Five for Friday.

I love...

1. How gentle you are with me.
2. That you are good at fixing things.
3. The annoying fact that you are right most of the time.
4. That you always encourage and believe in me.
5. To hate how you're good at everything. :)

Wordless Wednesday.

How do you know you spent too much time working on homework in one evening? Your Victoria's Secret "Pink" logo from your PJ's can be seen in our couch. Look closely!

Five for Friday.

1. I love that you e-mailed me a 'Five for Friday' from you.

2. I miss how your presence alone makes me feel better about things that are bothering me.

3. I miss your smile.

4. I love that you called me early in the morning to have a skype date before I left for work. It made my whole week!

5. I miss having you rush to give me a hug and a kiss as soon as you walk through the door.

ps. We're a third of the way until we see eachother again at Christmas!

Bake-N-Blog Unveiled!

I was pretty darn excited to take part in the Bake-N-Blog Jess, over at Jesstagirl and Her Officer, was hosting! Having a reason to bake cupcakes is not necessary but it definitely provided me with some motivation. Each participant chose a cupcake from Ming Makes Cupcakes and they all look fantastic!

I decided to make the Flourless Beet Chocolate Cupcakes with Whipped Cream as mentioned previously. These cupcakes are absolutely delicious. They are chocolate-y, rich and amazing. I have never eaten something so moist. Betty Crocker has nothing on me now. I wish I could just sit and eat all twelve. I wasn't alone in my enjoyment. They received rave reviews from everyone who was lucky enough to try one...or two!

Cupcakes really are love. See how these wonderful little cuppy cakes were created:

Puree beets in blender until smooth. Measure 1/2 cup and put aside.

Then, melt 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips and 3/4 stick of butter using a metal bowl set in a pan of simmering water on low. I used Trader Joe's Semi-Sweet Chocolate Callets and would highly recommend using these. When melted, take off heat and let sit for a few minutes. Afterwards, add the 3 egg yolks and the 1/2 cup pureed beets.

Now, if you're me, this is the point where you realize that you left your eggs at the self checkout. Oopsies. What to do? Call mom, who was with you when shopping, while in a panic and say "did you pick up the eggs?!" At that point, you hear something that sounds like "no" and your phone cuts out. By the time you call your mom (who just so happens to be the best mom ever!) back, she is on her way to the grocery store to buy you another dozen. Sweet, right? Luckiest little baker ever.

While stirring the now melted chocolate, and incessantly licking the chocolate covered spoon, I realized I missed an incredibly important step in the whole baking experience. Wine.

Mom came to the rescue and I added my egg yolks and beets to the melted chocolate goodness!

In a metal bowl, I beat the 3 egg whites until soft peaks formed. Then, I gradually added the 1/4 cup of sugar and continued to beat.

Once the egg white mixture is still and glossy, whisk some of it into the chocolate mixture, and then back into the whites while stirring.

Fill the cupcake liners. Bake at 275 degrees for 35 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean.

While your cupcakes are baking, put a clean metal bowl along with wire whisks into the freezer to prepare for the whipped cream preparation!

Beat 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream until light and foamy. This will take approximately 3 or 4 minutes. If you'd like some direction on how to whip cream effectively, this may help.

Now, this is a very important step so listen carefully. Lick the delicious whipped cream off of the whisks. You must. Ming obviously didn't feel it was necessary to outline this in her recipe, but really, it's vital.

Mmm, the cupcakes are baking. I was surprised at how voluptuous they were considering they lacked flour. They did fall a little once out of the oven, but not much.

Now, keep calm and have a cupcake!


Enjoy and happy baking!

Corn Bonanza Fail.

You may remember my intentions of making those four corn on the cob recipes? Well, I think it's become quite clear that they failed. I made two of the recipes and ate soooo much corn. I eventually was over it. I really wanted to finish the recipes since I said I would but lets face it - it's just not going to happen!

Stay tuned for the Flourless Beet Chocolate Cupcakes I'm making for Jess' Bake-N-Blog! They will be unveiled on the 15th! Who needs corn when we have cupcakes?

Speaking of corn and cupcakes - take a look at these little gems!

Five for Friday.

1. I love how you're always on my mind.

2. I love how you make me excited for the future.

3. I love that you're an amazing cook! I always enjoy the nights that you make dinner because it's absolutely delicious! I also love the way you're so serious about it because you want it to be perfect!

4. I love that you appreciate all the little things I do for you.

5. I love that other people can see your face light up when you look at me.

Wordless Wednesday.

Ahhh, day dreaming...

53 Years!

Look at this precious couple! Today, my Nanny and Grandad are celebrating their 53rd Wedding Anniversary! They have definitely been through ups and downs but worked together through all of it. They have invited me to come out for dinner with them tonight and celebrate! I'm definitely looking forward to spending this evening with them!

Five for Friday.

1. I am elated that my love and adoration grows each and every day, even when you're far away.

2. I love that you call me at the end of your work day regardless of how late it is for you, the early hour you woke up at, and the various other elements you faced throughout the day.


3. I miss seeing your overnight bag on the floor where you always put it.

4. I miss telling you all the mundane details about my day. You always take interest even when they seem really silly!

5. I love that you're reading my blog and learning even more about me. If you're reading this right now - I love you and you're the absolute best. Thank you for making 'Five for Fridays' so easy!

Wordless Wednesday.

Travel.Voyage.Viaggio.Reise.

trav·el [trav-uhl]

I have the travel bug. In fact, I always do. I've traveled alone and while it was fun, there is nothing like sharing another city or country with the one you love. Dan and I have been talking about taking a vacation to Mexico or another warm destination when he gets leave around Christmas. While searching online, I've been looking for all-inclusive vacations to different places in Mexico such as Cabo San Lucas and Cancun. I can't help but look further though. Why not Bali, Indonesia? What about every other exotic, far away destination? I just want to go absolutely everywhere regardless of the fact we can only be away one week.

We've been lucky enough to take a few vacations in our time together. In 2006, on Dan's R&R, we spent 5 days in Barcelona after we had first started getting to know each other. We went to Cancun in the winter of 2007, stayed at a gorgeous hotel and had an absolutely amazing time. We've taken many short jaunts to Tofino, Seattle, and even Las Vegas. I can't wait to explore more countries together and take more trips whether they be short or long.

My dream is to one day go on a fabulous getaway with Dan to Santorini, Greece. How could you not enjoy absolutely every moment with these gorgeous surroundings? It's definitely my number one destination for a romantic vacation!


So, what is your favourite vacation you've ever taken with your love and where is one place you would absolutely love to discover together?

Five for Friday.

I respect you because...

1. You are an incredibly hard worker and will always go above and beyond your call of duty. This applies to every aspect of your life.

2. You do everything in your power to keep everyone in your life happy.

3. Family and friends mean the world to you.

4. When I'm upset or sad you reach out to me and try and fix the problem.

5. You show me love.

Wordless Wednesday.

Looking up from your sunroof and seeing this man is not okay. I couldn't see the whole billboard - just the man!

Bake-N-Blog!

Happy Monday fellow bloggers!

My friend Jess, over at Jesstagirl and Her Officer, is holding a Bake-N-Blog (more details here) which I'm going to participate in!

Basically, each blogger will pick which cupcake they'd like to make from a specific list. In this case, we're choosing from Ming Makes Cupcakes. They all look absolutely divine! How can you not love these precious little things? I've decided to go out on a limb here and bake the Flourless Beet Chocolate Cupcakes with Whipped Cream.

Yesterday I went to a local health food store called Nature's Fare and bought some little chocolate zucchini bites. I don't remember what brand they were, but they were delicious! I'm currently feeling pretty confident about mixing my vegetables with chocolate. Just yesterday I was talking to my mom about how I wanted to eat more beets so what perfect timing!

If you're wanting to participate head over to Jess' blog and comment on her post! It will be fun! Stay tuned for my post showcasing the chosen cupcake on September 15th! (Oh, and the corn festivities will be continuing this week for my final two recipes!)

Day 2: Avocado and Corn Salsa

Last night, I prepared my second corn recipe. Oh my goodness. There are no words to describe how much I enjoyed this. I'm so glad I tried this recipe. Thank you Michael Smith of Food Network for your delicious Avocado and Corn Salsa. The only part that saddened me was that I didn't have chicken enchiladas in the oven or refried beans. Next time I make this, that is a must. I ended up cooking the Mushroom Pork Chops from the recipe on the back of the Campbell's can to accompany it. My mom made it quite frequently when I lived at home and I had a serious hankering for it. I'm fully aware that these two things don't really "go" together but that is one of the beautiful things of cooking for you and only you!

The recipe made about two cups worth - maybe more. I can't wait for lunch again tomorrow. I have a can of refried beans in the lunch room at work so I'm seeing a simple, fresh, and amazing meal in the making!



You need to try it. Really. It is salsa but I ate it with a spoon. Who needs tortilla chips?

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 avocado, pit removed and flesh chopped
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sea salt
• Dash hot sauce

Directions

1. Toss all the ingredients together and either serve immediately or refrigerate overnight.

Ta da! Simple and delicious!

Five for Friday.

I'm sad because...

1. We can't spend Sunday mornings cuddling, going to the Farmer's Market, and making dinner together.
2. I had to BBQ alone again this week.
3. We don't get to do fun things on Saturday nights like normal. It makes me sad seeing other couples enjoying their evening together when I can't spend my night with you.
4. I miss watching Big Brother 12 with you. I kind of can't wait for it to be over because it's just not as fun being able to talk about it with my best friend.
5. My life feels lonely without you in it. I know you're still "in it" but without you physically here, I'm lonely even if I don't act like it most of the time.

But, I am ridiculously happy that we're almost three weeks through this madness! I have faith the time will pass quickly and it will be December and you'll be home for a visit!

Day 1: Cheese on the Cob!

Since I had all of the ingredients (or thought I did!) I decided to start with Cheese on the Cob by Paula Deen. My rendition of this recipe was delicious!

I came to my spice cupboard and do you think I had chili powder? Nope. Just every other spice imaginable! I was not interested in heading to the grocery store so I substituted with a sprinkling of paprika, cumin, and a swirl of Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce (love that stuff!) I also neglected to read the recipe right and regardless of having both grated and shredded Parmesan, I used the grated. If you look at the recipe you'll see it says shredded. Whatever, it was amazing! I'm so glad I BBQ'd two cobs with this recipe!




Here is the original recipe:

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 5 ears corn, husks and silk removed
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan
• Chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
  
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Prepare grill.

Brush a thin layer of mayonnaise on corn. Sprinkle the corn with cheese, chili powder, salt and pepper. Wrap each corn with foil and place on the grill. Turn occasionally and cook for about 10 minutes (until kernels begin to brown). Serve warm.

You can always make the same substitutions (ahem...mistakes!) that I made too and I promise it will be delicious! Enjoy!