Tips

This week, something, somewhere, over some bite to eat made me think about my blog. Not the fodder du jour per se, but the platform itself. And the 'why do I do it?' behind it. Why have I invested more than 120,000 words, hundreds of hours and thousands of thoughts into this site? Why didn't I instead, say, write two books? Or work more? Or just slept in?

Was it worth it? Better yet, will it continue to be worth it?
My answer remains, a resounding yes.

Why? Because without this space, I don't think my writing would have progressed from where it was (it was bad) to where it is now (better.) I don't think the conversations I'm having offline would be as rich and meaningful. And I think I would still be courting a populous female following, instead of engaging a core group of consumers who I care most about. 

Without this outlet, I also don't think I would have challenged myself in the kitchen everyday, accepted new adventures, calmed worries and fears, defeated enemies, learned new skills or strove to be the best version of myself. Above all, I don't think I would have the same joie de vivre. Having a place where I determine what's newsworthy or not helps me see a day or a dinner as something other than routine - there is always an opportunity for it to make headlines.

For instance, the aptly scheduled pre-Tip Day tritip, the asparagus, the conversation, and the laughter that we shared last night were so great, that they made a dreary, Perrier-sipping evening in Naperville grand. So the meal made my blog.

I have honestly thought about that entry called 'The End.' But for now, it's still far away. To me, approaching life with an editorial eye and voice, makes you appreciate every last image, story, and memory. And I want to hold onto that for as long as possible.

In other news: It's Tip Day. Meaning I'm rich. (Not really, but my bank account looks a little better.) And yes, I will be spending my 'tip' all in one place. If only the sellers would make a counter offer. Let's get 'er done. 

Lo.

White Asparagus with St. Andre Cream Sauce

1 Tablespoon Butter
2 ounces St. Andre Cheese (or another triple cream cheese)
3 Tablespoons water
Bundle of white asaparagus
Salt and pepper
1 teaspoon tarragon, chopped

On medium heat, in a 2-inch saute pan, melt butter. Add cheese and fold in. Add asparagus and cook for one minute, coating it with cream sauce. Add water and let steam for 3-4 minutes, until the asparagus is just done. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan, serve with chopped tarragon.
(Dip bread in remaining sauce. Amazing.)

Guess Who? Guess What?

They say that time heals. It's true. Each day this week, I felt a little better - a little more at peace with my family's loss. But I also believe there are other avenues that can aid in the healing process. For starters, friends, laughter, and flowers at your desk; invitations and cards; surprise visits, big events, and of course food.

Returning to work, greeted by hugs from coworkers and friends, taking wellness walks, receiving an invite from my boss for my 30th birthday celebration, and coming back to my desk after a meeting to a big bouquet of flowers from our agency congratulating me on my promotion, helped. 

Coming home at the end of the day to beautiful sympathy cards and in particular, a very special one from SGS saying that every day this year a candle would be lit at the Grotto for Red Barry, helped.

Re-assuming my position behind the stove, on the floor that matches the one at 126, felt great, and I believe would have made Grandma and Grandpa proud. Four nights of hearty, comforting meals that did a whole lot of soul soothing, helped.

(I didn't pull out the camera this week, so apologies for my Instagramed photos.)

These recipes are all worth making
Hanger Steak with Mushrooms and Red Wine Sauce
Paccheri Pasta with Braised Saffron Chicken
Tortilla Soup and Cheese Quesadillas 

And then there were the surprises - the 'Guess Who?' And 'Guess What?' of this week that helped me focus on life.

On Thursday, Facebook started blowing up with updates from Aunt Beth, sitting on the tarmac, waiting at the gate, delayed and delayed again, getting a voucher, and overall being screwed by United/Continental en route back home in Hawaii. I offered her room and board at the Ranch, and she accepted. Peter, guess who's coming for hanger steak dinner tonight? Aunt Beth! The Aloha met Naperville, and it was grand.

Earlier this week, I got another surprise in the form of a text and then a call.  
Guess What? The second offer might just do it. 
Guess What? They accepted, I'm going to sign, and we're closing April 5
Long story, short - we put the Ranch back on the market last week, and it's under contract. So we might be moving, and apparently very soon.

While loss, absence and hurt linger, the good news on the other end of multiple lines of communication this week, helped me get back to our good life.

And apparently, it continued last night ... this in via text and tweet. My cousin, is now Major Cumpston. (BIG congratulations!)

Lo.