Writer’s Block: Grapefruit & Super Bowl Ads

Be the change you wish to see

What do you say when you’re not quite sure what to say? You say whatever it is you feel, I suppose. That’s the funny thing about writer’s block. It can be so overpowering, so overshadowing, but in reality it has no place. There is always a story to tell. It’s only a matter of finding the story.

Perhaps that’s the journalism education sneaking out, but just like striking up a conversation with the stranger standing next to you in line, you really never know where conversation may lead until you open it up. So while I believe there might not be any sort of groundbreaking thoughts in the following random musing, you never know who’s listening (reading) and who might connect with them.

Here’s what’s on my mind tonight:

- Winter has never made it onto any sort of “favorites” list of mine, but winter citrus, now that’s a different story. I just finished a grapefruit and it just proved in-season fruit kicks major butt. I also eat grapefruit in my (family’s) own special way. Peel it like an orange and get more fruit. It really just makes sense.

- Country music makes me miss summer reallll bad. I don’t know what it is, but I think the twang and stories sound better in sunshine with a cold beer in my hand. At least that’s what country songs make me feel like doing. In any event, I’m already counting the days until I slip on my cowboy boots and see Jason Aldean at Wrigley Field in July.

- I wish I could play the piano like Alicia Keys. I can read music. I should work on that.

- I can’t stop thinking about this Super Bowl ad, especially since I’ve been reading The Omnivore’s Dilemma. Do yourself a favor and learn where your food comes from, it’s eye-opening. Then go find a responsible, sustainable farmer and thank him or her.

- Have you ever tried Naked Juice? I’m currently obsessed with The Green Machine and Power-C smoothies. So many nutrients, so little time. Makes me feel a part of this juicing trend without having to buy a fancy juicer.

What’s on your mind today?

Play (& Eat) Something Country

Saying I love country music is like describing the Empire State building as tall – the words just don’t suffice. Think about it.

Did you think about it? Good. Now you can begin to understand just how excited I was to go to the Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan concert this past weekend. And let me tell you… they did not disappoint! Both were charismatic performers and sounded like the real deal. No lip-synching here (take that Top 40!). If you ever get the chance to go see them, I highly, highly recommend it – these men know how to rock.

While it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what I like about country music, I think it has something to do with the lifestyle/ideals that go along with the music. Songs about hardworking people, loving people and people living their lives the best the know how, being the best people they can be… while drinking a few beers. Pass the red solo cup.

Though I’ve yet to spend much time in the southern United States, I’m surely infatuated with them. The food, the hospitality, the slower pace of life – it all sounds divine. And since this is a blog focused on food, let me share one of my most favorite southern treats with y’all. The red velvet cupcake!

My personal favorite (to make) is this recipe from Paula Deen – thought I add a little more cocoa powder to mine. The cream cheese frosting is absolutely to die for and really makes the cupcake — so don’t skimp on it!!

Red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting

Yum!

Musical Inspirations (in the Kitchen)

Today’s post is a bit unconventional for this blog, but who says there has to be such rules? Not me.

First, let me begin with a short tale about how I came to this idea and why I want to share. Music has and always has been an important aspect of my life. I grew up dancing competitively – which has given me an arsenal of random music knowledge, I took piano lessons for a number of years and I hate sitting in silence, so my radio/iPod/iTunes is never off.

Music has inspired so many elements of my life and helped me create so many memories which started me thinking about the music I listen to while I’m cooking in my kitchen. I tend to lean towards one of (arguably my most favorite) my favorite genres, country music. For me, this music takes me to a place much more rural than I’m used to, with a sweet tea in my hand, a good book or a good conversation. I may even argue, it takes me away to a simpler life where the stress of the day disappears completely. In find that music and cooking have that in common for me, making them two of my favorite things.

Just another way I believe that inspiration for all facets of life comes from all over and you never know where you may find it. Make sure your eyes are always open and your ears are always alert.

p.s. – In case you are interested, I’m currently listening to Jason Aldean’s Live Sessions on iTunes– the perfect smooth, southern drawl.