Making it work.

I don’t typically use this forum to write about spirituality or religion or my personal views, really, on any sensitive subject – wine and cheese and how to not be an asshole excluded, of course. It’s not that I don’t have them; it’s just that I’ve never been fond of sharing them in an unsolicited fashion.

In a lifetime social experiment, I’ve found it very difficult to listen to what people have to say about God and Jesus and Love without resisting the urge to roll my eyes and, subsequently, being very turned off. I do not think this is their fault, not all the time. And I especially do not think this is God’s or Jesus’ or Love’s fault.

Let me also point out that my sentiment holds true for the most devout Christians and the most invested Atheists.

So, without launching into a(n unsolicited) diatribe on the terrible disservice Christians do to their Savior and Atheists do to their lack thereof, I’ll share with you the thought that popped into my head during my morning shower. Ever since my husband told me about his habit of starting the day off by praying while showering (so efficient!) I have joined him in this ritual.

And no matter what kind of day I’ve had previously or what awaits me in the future, the first thing that always, always emerges from my synapses is the phrase THANK YOU.

If there’s one thing I’ve noticed as an online voyeur of Facebook and blogs, of friends and unknowns, of the wild populous around me – we’re inherently grateful. Some people claim that people use these mediums to boast, others maintain that they’re putting their best foot forward, but what I think it boils down to is that we’re all really lucky and are doing our best to keep that in mind.

So, instead of instantly jumping to the worst conclusion, whether about life or people, I’ll simply indulge my urge to be ultimately grateful. Grateful for each morning I wake up next to my perfect husband. Grateful for the weekend spent with my family in the amazing location above, the one we call “home.”

Grateful for the past, grateful that it remains the past.

Grateful for the future, grateful that it remains a mystery.

May 25

May 24

If Monday needed the mat, then Thursday more than call for a couple of brews, our pirate bucket and a pristine view of the city. Some days all those after-work plans you made can wait.

May 21

The Man & The Meal…Panko-Crusted Atlantic Cod!

My husband made fish work!

Ingredients:
- fresh fish (We like the meatier consistency of cod but have enjoyed similar results with salmon, too.)
- Trader Joe’s panko breadcrumbs
- lemon pepper seasoning
- Dijon mustard (As always, we favor TJ’s!)
- a few squirts of fresh lime

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 and cover a baking sheet in tin foil. The foil helps prevent the fish from sticking to the pan and assists in giving it a flaky texture. It also assists in the amount of scrubbing you have to do post-meal. You’re welcome.

2. In a small bowl, combine the panko, lemon pepper seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Generously spread Dijon mustard on both sides of the fish and lightly batter with the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Bake for 10-12 minutes and then boost to broil for 2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning but allow to broil to ensure that crispy, crunchy exterior.

5. Serve with a fresh spinach salad (love this dressing) and some wild rice.

6. Also, copious amounts of sauvignon blanc.

May 20

I will only reveal the location of the most adorable, intimate and authentic European bakery via a series of clues…

A Day of Deals: Chicago a la LivingSocial & Groupon!

I have never cut a coupon in my life. First, I’m terrible with a pair of scissors. Second, I just don’t care that much. But when you live in the city that gave Groupon its (slightly rocky tax-wise) start and LivingSocial has no choice but to keep up, it can be worth your while to keep a keen eye out.

We’ve been wanting to go horseback riding for the last year, so when this deal popped up a few months back, we pounced! The tickets were only $65/person when we purchased ours and I found out that they do increase, if they don’t sell out immediately, as the event draws near. Obviously our “adventure” almost doubled!

After a brief bus ride to Tinley Park, we arrived at Forest View Farms. With the sun in the sky and breeze at our backs, we enjoyed a hike before hopping aboard our hooved tour guides…and before I would be “are you that girl?” for the rest of the trip.

Jewel was a lovely horse, quite playful and a bit of a diva. She pranced, hooves high, and liked to stop for snacks when we really should’ve just stayed in line. She also decided to play in the soft terrain, gave a little buck and then “took a knee…” with me. on. her. back. My spidey senses kicked in as I nimbly slid my leg out from under her and scrambled away. I was fine and, as the saying goes, got right back on that bitch. What? Was I just going to walk her back? I don’t think so.

“Courage is being scared to death - but saddling up anyway.” John Wayne

Upon arriving back to the farm, they had 4 varieties of wine waiting for us to (more than) sample and a catered dinner that was actually quite scrumptious! We ate under a pavilion and, as the deal promised, headed home with our cheeks rosy and bellies full. Was it the most prestigious equestrian center? Nah. Was the wine up to my snobby father’s bar? Not quite. But the whole day was perfect. And, best yet, the fact that we did nothing except press the “Buy” button made it even better. Oh, also this guy…he made it amazing as he stepped on his own testicles no fewer than 7 times trying to get into the kiddie pool:

The LivingSocial adventure busses drop you off 3 blocks from where we live, making the whole experience even easier for us. And as we pulled into our beautiful city on the most beautiful night of the year, we weren’t ready to call it quits. Out came the handy dandy Groupon app and, sure enough, Patron’s Hacienda had a Groupon Now! offer (they usually do!).

I almost don’t want to tell you about this hidden gem because we like that getting a seat at their stunning patio is quite easy to do. Honestly, one of the most impressive outdoor dining set-ups I’ve seen, the wooden fences have built-in flower boxes, LED lights and each corner is adorned with hanging flowers. El in the background, reminding you of where you are and authentic choriqueso fundido and agave-sweetened margaritas top everything off just right.

Also…I love him:

May 19

May 18

I proudly present…Friday night! In all its Redbox, Trader Joe’s & Jimmy John’s glory.

Scored the ultimate reservation. Handsome man, memories of Paris and a bottle of Pinot in the Washington Square Park. Hot dog, Chicago! You sure do spring right.

May 15

May 13

May 08

Tuesday’s List of Things to Love | River North Edition

1. Zocalo | 358 W. Ontario
Where do you take friends who are from New York City? While I know Chicago may not be famous for its Mexican cuisine, what we do have to offer is the space for a fantastic evening. This tequila bar was prompt with our 9 p.m. reservation and offered a wide array of traditional Mexican dishes. I’d tell you which tequila we got in our insanely delicious “skinny” margaritas, but I don’t remember. My recommendation is to ask the servers for theirs, you’ll enjoy the authentic-accent response way more than reading it here!

2. Tiffani Kim Institute | 310 W. Superior
If there are some typos in this post it’s probably due to the fact that I just enjoyed an hour-long deep tissue massage at the Tiffani Kim Institute. A gift from my fabulous sister-in-law, I thoroughly enjoyed my thorough massage. My masseuse was the strong, silent type for which my back, shoulders and brain completely thank her. The prices are a little steeper than your typical Massage Envy-esque place but I think the quality is worth it.

3. My doorman’s insistance upon calling me Li’l Mama and giving me shit for going to yoga so much. He proudly proclaims that ours is the safest building in all of Chicago and I don’t dare argue.

4. Trader Joe’s | 44 E. Ontario
They are, by far, the best florist in the city. We bought these beauties almost a week ago. Their reasonably priced, moderately healthy food ain’t so bad either!

5. In Motion Yoga Studio | 821 W. Superior St.
Okay, so it technically isn’t River North, but it is my favorite yoga experience in the Windy City to date. I’ve been to a few of the classes and want to try them all. From the low key style of Zachary to the revved up Om Boy flow with Jenny, the vibe is exactly what you want in a yoga studio. Plus, I think they have a Groupon going on right now - check it and if you want a yoga pal, holler atchyo’ Li’l Mama.