You'll Never Guess What I Found

I didn't even know this place existed until I literally walked into it. The only reason I walked into it is because I was walking in front of it, and couldn't believe my eyes when I did a double take and noticed what kind of shop I almost passed up. This is my kind of place, but I had no clue of its arrival. I went in of course, my curiousity was maxxed out. Right on cue, in this weekend before Christmas, I found something magical. The reason for my secrecy is due in large part to the fact that gifts were purchased at this unique boutique. Reply on the comment section to guess what I have discovered and I will leave you with this one hint...This is a food blog as you well know, so chances are good that my findings are indeed edible.

First You Make A Roux

It's the most wonderful time of the year. No, I'm not talking about Christmas, I'm talking about gumbo. Cold weather is gumbo weather. Well, it's a little optimistic of me to say cold weather. It was cold this weekend so I took advantage of one of our random, wintery cold fronts and made some chicken and andouille gumbo. While I could go on and on about the freshness and great smoky flavor of Jacob's andouille sausage, I wanted this post to showcase the roux. As we all know, this is where a good gumbo starts. Although I could talk about making a roux, Lauren and I thought watching it being made would be more fun. Enjoy the cool weather and make yourself some of dat dere gumbo, cher.

Ode To Eggnog

The first time I ever tasted eggnog I couldn't stand it. It was similar to what I call the "sushi experience". The first few times you try it you wonder why anyone would want to consume this. Soon after there is a breakthrough. You either realize you hate it, OR you wonder how did I live this long without it. I am definitely the latter and quite frankly I could not imagine the holiday season without it. I enjoy it so much that I wanted to write a tribute to this beloved beverage on the blog and I was even considering changing the name to the Nog Blog. However, I came to and felt like that would be a little weird, so I stole an ode from someone else. Hope you enjoy and have another glass of eggnog, because it's the holidays and we're all going to gain a couple of extra pounds anyway. Next month: Exercise tips!



Ode to Eggnog


Oh how I love thee,
My favorite holiday treat,
All thick and rich
And so syrupy sweet!

With a little rum or brandy,
And a pinch of nutmeg too,
I'll be full of Christmas cheer
To last the whole night through!

Everything seems more festive
With this beverage in my hand;
If you, my friend, have inlaws,
I'm sure you'll understand!

All the things that once annoyed
Have all been drowned out now,
'Cause I've had all the eggnog
That my bladder would allow...

Though I feel a little woozy,
Now that I have had my fill;
I hope that all this eggnog
Doesn't cause me to be ill!