Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Soothe the heart through the stomach...

So I recently experienced the loss of a very, very beloved pet and I can't handle it. I am in denial, I'm angry, and I'm absolutely shattered.

That said, I am trying very hard to keep myself busy and not dwell on sad things. One way I've tried to do keep myself going is cooking. I have always found cooking to be extremely enjoyable; I love the freedom and creativity of the process, especially when the results are good. So yesterday I endeavored to invent my own stir fry recipe from the things I had on hand and whatever I could pick up at the grocery store with minimal expense and ease.

The result is below, my very own Ginger Beef and Peanut Stir Fry. While the vegetables and meats can be varied at will, the sauce if what really brings the whole dish together. Super Boy and I really enjoyed making it together and, of course, devouring nearly the entire pan.

It may not make everything better, but I'd like to think that, in a small way, the heart can be soothed through the stomach. Prayer and faith can help, but love (in any form) is truly the strongest bond of all. 

Ginger Beef and Peanut Stir Fry
¾ lb. lean beef, thinly cut (leftovers work well)
1 tbs grated ginger 
2 tbs peanut butter
2 tbs soy sauce
1 tbs brown sugar, not packed
2 tbs olive oil (For sautéing)
2 carrots, chopped into sticks
1 zucchini, chopped into sticks
1 small onion, cut into large pieces
1 bell pepper, sliced into ribbons
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (small) beef/chicken/ vegetable broth
Dash pepper (go a little heavier if you like it) 
8 oz. angel hair, cooked
Chopped peanuts, for garnish
Directions
  1. In a bowl, combine the broth, soy sauce, peanut butter, ginger, sugar and pepper until smooth; set aside
  2.  In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry the beef, onion, carrots, zucchini, peppers, and garlic in oil for about 8 minutes or until meat is no longer pink. If using leftovers, add the already cooked beef to the pan halfway through the vegetable cooking time.
  3. Stir the broth mixture and add to the pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened.
  4. Add cooked noodles and toss until well mixed.
Notes: All of the ingredients in this recipe can be increased or omitted at will; it is very adaptable and can be altered to suit individual tastes. Vegetables can be improvised and changed at will. Just make sure everything gets cooked through.  Meats can also be substituted, just make sure they are well cooked accordingly.


Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Moment of Joy


































This is a stained glass window from St. Margaret's Chapel in Edinburgh Castle. The chapel is the oldest structure in Edinburgh, a small one room building just big enough for the royal family to gather in prayer. I was struck at how beautiful the stained glass windows were, especially this one, but when I took the photo I didn't have high hopes of the dim lighting allowing me to get a good shot. Lo and behold! This picture turned out to be one of the iconic shots of my trip.

In addition to it's beauty, this image of St. Margaret seems to exude a sense of peace and calmness. Something I need right about now...

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Moment of Joy



Actually, many moments of joy, all thanks to my sweet birdie.

Love you forever, Sammy bird.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Moment of Joy


I lived here, in this castle, when I spent part of the summer of 2007 in England and Scotland. Well, it's not a castle, really, but a manor house with a conservatory, park, music rooms, ballrooms, great halls, libraries...
simply put, one of the most amazing experiences of my life.

And for a little extra joy... this was the view from the gorgeous window seat in my bedroom.

Damn, I'm lucky!

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Moment of Joy

Inspired by several awesome photoblogs, I've decided to take a crack at it myself. I can't always post a whole article, but I'd love to share these photos with you. Moment of Joy is my little way of sharing images that just make me happy, from any number of sources and venues. I hope they make you happy, too!





This first edition of Moment of Joy features one of my favorite pictures ever. This is Edinburgh at about 9 or 10 pm, just after I left a tour in Mary King's Close. I traveled there two summers ago for a college course and was amazed at how early the sun rose, how late it set, and how utterly gorgeous this city was, especially the colorful, modern, funky storefronts topped with century old buildings. Just thinking about that trip makes my heart soar. I think I am a misplaced Scot at heart!

The Prodigal Grad Student Returns

Finally! I am done for the semester! Yes, I know I have been very lax in updating, but never fear, you will get all kinds of insights and gossip on the world of the PhD student over the next few weeks. It's been a ride, and this is just the first pause I get before I plunge right back into it, a cycle that will repeat over and over again for at least 5 years.

But right now, I want to direct your attention to the bottom of this blog. See that "Let's Say Thanks" widget? It's a great program brought to you by the people of Xerox. The company has collected some great artwork from kids all across the country and they are turning them into postcards for the troops. They have a website outlining their project and a facebook group you can join, too. All you need to do is follow that widget to their homepage, where you too can send your own greetings and thanks to those who serve. Trust me; this is a great holiday treat for those who can't be home to celebrate with family and friends. So take a minute (even less, take 10 seconds) to send one to a stranger who cares for you and your freedom.

Isn't it time you care back? Send a "Let's Say Thanks" card.