Poverty, Debt, and Snuff

Thank you, Mr. Blumenthal, for your genuine concern after the welfare of us Connecticut Yankees, and in fact all of America's people. Thank you, in these trying times of world economic toil, strife in far away lands, growing disparity among races and classes and creeds, for your laser like focus on the issues of the day. For what do I call out your name and raise it above all others on this thanksgiving weekend?

Withdraw of troops from Iraq? Nope.

Working to narrow income inequality? Nope.

Securing Federal Funds for Irene Disaster? Nope.

Making sure that the Baseball Player's Union made a soft agreement in their recent contract negotiations to not have tins of chewing tobacco visible in player's back pockets on game days during the time period that fans are allowed in the ballpark? Yes!!

Good Work, Dick.

You're making this a better world every day.

Conn's Blumenthal praises smokeless tobacco rules

Sweet and Sour Chicken Slam Dunk

I had a thought: what if I used the batter for the fish tacos on chicken, fried it in the wok, and tried to make that glowing orange sweet and sour goop that the Chinese food joints always serve? Well, you'd get something like this:

I can't tell you exactly how wonderful it was. It turned out to be even better than the store bought variety. The pineapple and peppers were nice and fresh.

The chicken had all the flavor you remember but it was clean and crisp.

Delicious. The only way for you to try, I suppose, is for you to come over an have it with us.

Everyone is welcome, just give us a day's notice and make sure you leave some for Robby.

He gets nervous if he thinks there's not enough for him!

Yap Yap Yap: Baby Talking Here

Here's a peek at a Saturday conversation with Robby:

I know what he's saying.

Best meal you've ever made, she says.

Fish Tacos. Pico de Gallo. Lime Aioli. Perfection.

Fried Codfish, to golden brown. Shredded cabbage and red onion.

Christina didn't say anything for the first 3 bites. Robby bounced away in the neglect-o-tot, patiently awaiting the verdict."This could be the best meal you've ever made," she says.

"Bobby: You want the world's best fish tacos and a beer? Treat yourself!"

Can it get any more beautiful?

Want to see what I came home to last night? One of the most beautiful things you'll ever see:

Told you so.

Happy Birthday Pop-Pop!

Hey Dad:

Robby, Chritsina and I want to wish you a happy 60th Birthday!

Click here to view it at Ashford Living's youtube channel
http://youtu.be/SXr5z-T01r8
And here's to many more!

We love you and can't wait to see you for Turkey Day.

Thai Spicy Red Sauce Green Bean Bowl Tasty

I know we've been spending an inordinate amount of time focusing on non-food related stories over the last few weeks--what with Baby D growing like a weed and all.

So, I took a few minutes last night before the first soccer game of the season (Go Turtles!) to document another Stir fry spectacular. This one was very flavorful and well put together.

Thai red curry paste mixed laid the foundation (chilies, garlic, fish sauce), and the meat of the situation was pork. Topped with green beans, it made for a well rounded dish.

It wasn't nearly as spicy as I had hoped, so the next time through I think we'll add additional peppers.

Paired with sticky rice, it was a hit.

We won by way of forfeit, in case you were wondering. We still managed to to wear ourselves out scrimmaging and sent one guy home with a twisted ankle. Before even playing a real game.