So far we're off to a great December...

Whoa so many updates...

First off, let's start with the good stuff.  Abigail came for a visit!! I cannot believe its pretty much been a year, but not to fear our fashionista friend is still the same, Ohio has not changed her too much.  Question...is Ohio considered a northern state or more midwestern?  Anyways, we had a great little visit which included shopping where she convinced me that I just HAD to buy the two anthropologie dresses we found on sale and not just one, and while I was questioning my decision at the register after I was rung up, as I look at them hanging in my closet, it was worth it.  We then took a swing by Trader Joe's where Maren introduced us to the most addictive cheese puffs ever.  Dinner at Jackson's and hanging out with two very best friends afterward that I miss very much brought the visit to an end.  Love you girls so much.

Maren made some delicious cupcakes for us...

And I was able to successfully pull off some pralines! (VERY finicky little boogers, which I have tried many a time and failed, which is a constant frustration to me until I can muster up the patience to try them again.)

Changing gears...

We had a very fun little dinner party last night.  Me and Margo went a little crazy, actually it was Mrs. Grantham's fault because she gave us the Christmas china...I know so fancy right?  Sadly, I do not have any pics of the food because I realize now that hosting and cooking keeps you a little busy from taking pics.  But here is our cute little table before the herb crusted pork tenderloin, roasted potatoes and asparagus, pear salad, and brownies with peppermint ice cream were devoured.  Very tasty and so fun getting everyone together!  

After din we decided to play some cards.  Of course Margo and I became a little too much and Kemps got cut throat.  At one point Margo starts raising her voice at Jay, "I've been doing the signal for 10 MINUTES", and I remarked how much I loved this game.  It's true.  Stovie turned out to be the champ of the night, only because he has hawk eyes.  Before we knew it it was eleven thirty and everyone decided to call it a night.   

Getting back to Business

Ok kids, I know all of my avid readers have been anxiously awaiting an update, and I'm happy to report that it will soon come.  I plan on purchasing a camera in the very soon future (maybe next week?!) hey I'm a working girl now I can do things like that!  What do you think?  I'm thinking I just want a camera with pink polka dots, how cute is that?  Anyways, after the purchase I will be updating more frequently I believe.  However, I would also like to remind you all of the original intention of this blog,   I am not the only wannabe domesticated friend in my group of wannabe domesticated girlfriends.  Therefore, if anyone has their own submission material, I want it.  How convenient Thanksgiving is right on its way, I'm sure everyone will have lots of good stuff to share!!  Miss you all, have a great Thanksgiving!!

Shrimp and Corn Soup

1/2 c. veggie oil                                      16 oz can cream style corn     

1 c. flour                                                   salt and pepper

1 lg. onion, chopped                               crushed red pepper 

1 celery rib, chopped                              2 lbs. shrimp

1/2 green pepper, chopped                   6 sprigs fresh parsley

1 clove garlic

1 gallon hot water

16 oz whole tomatoes, undrained

8 oz tomato sauce

24 oz whole corn, canned or frozen

First Step:  Making the Roux

Oil. Water. Stir.  Not complicated just don't let it burn and according to Gran it should resemble the color of a copper penny.  And overall rule of thumb for a roux is the darker the color the richer the taste!

Next Step:  Throw it all together

Add the veggies and garlic to the roux, stir until softened.

Gradually add the warm water, mixing well. Little note:  I usually add the salt, pepper, and red pepper and season as I go along-  I also like to add Tony Chacheres's  and tabasco.

Add the tomatoes and corn, bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about an hour (another note:  I have never been able to wait this long). 

Finally:

Add the shrimp and parsley and simmer 10 minutes.