hello, old friend.

Why, hello there, old friend. I could say I've been meaning to write, dying to write, missing this space terribly, but the truth is, I've really enjoyed a break.  This past semester, I found my plate quite full.  Yet, not of delicious and delectable homemade treats from my kitchen, sadly.  Sure, there have been yummy things here and there.  But, mostly my plate has been full with other things.  Things needing full attention.  Although I love the challenge of graduate school, I am happy to find myself back in this place.  So, onward, dear friends.  And, I certainly hope, upward.  


My new favorite thing in the world is the grill in Schaeffer's backyard.  He and I spend many nights grilling away and eating in the two adirondack chairs in the back.  He is a grill master!  I prepare the food, and he cooks it up.  Until, of course, he inevitably needs me to check if it is done.  We're quite the team.  In fact, some sparkly things have occurred since I last wrote.  Yes, Schaeffer and I are going to be full time partners...and he even got down on one knee.  Can you even imagine?  I'm over the moon.  

Super awesome grilling action.

Menu:
Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Grill-fry (#203)
Quinoa
Grilled peaches à la mode (#204)
This is a recipe by yours truly, so enjoy:
Toss together the following ingredients in a bowl, preferably with your hands.  Because it is fun.
1/2 lb shrimp (shelled)
4 tbsp Szechuan sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 minced garlic clove
1 sliced bell pepper
4 oz green breens
1 sliced medium yellow onion
1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
Put the entire mixture on a pan that is safe to use on the grill.  Schaeffer's momma gave us one, and it is awesome.  Saute it all right on the grill until the shrimp is cooked and a bit crispy.  Pour it over the quinoa, rice, or whatever else you'd like. 
Immediately place a few peach halves on the grill to cook while you're eating your delicious dinner.

Ahh....summer meals.  N'est-ce pas?

The thing about peaches is that they are simply amazing.  It is nothing less than absolutely wonderful that you can place a peach over heat and watch it turn from something to delicious to something melty and warm and delicious.  I've never grilled peaches before, and the joke is on me.  Grilled peaches + vanilla ice cream = the way I want to end every meal from here onward.  

I even gave him two halves.  Must be true love.

It is good to be back.  Have a wonderful evening.  
96 to go...