Monday, March 31, 2008

Poor doggie

This Seattle Times story about the injured sled dog from AK is sad - hopefully the Seattle doctors can help him. It made me think of Larissa's passel of pups in Alaska - she has a great photo album!

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Gabe Merkin's banana bread

I have vivid memories of driving home from winter swim team practice, with my mom listening to Dr. Gabe Merkin's health talk show on am radio (I think Mrs Stoughton probably listened to him too?)

Anyway, I found an old recipe in my notebook for Gabe Merkin's banana bread. I made it this morning - not only is it healthy, it's really good! No eggs or oil, and you don't even miss them.

6 ripe mashed bananas
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup sugar (I used a cup of evaporated cane juice crystals)
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup raisins

(I also dumped in a cup of oats and some wheat germ)

Mix the mashed bananas with the vanilla and sugar. Mix the dry ingredients separately, then add the wet to the dry.

Bake in a greased bread ban at 350 for 45 mins to an hour.

The banana bread is really delicious with a dollop of Greek Gods honey yogurt. Yum!

Grand Canyon IMAX

John and I saw the Grand Canyon Adventure IMAX film last night at the Pacific Science Center. It's really cool - definitely check it out when it hits your cities. It's in 3-D (makes for some awesome whitewater scenes!) The last time I saw a 3-D movie I think I was ten, and the technology has definitely improved.

The music is by Dave Matthews and it is narrated by Robert Redford. Along with the beautiful scenery and the experience of being "on" the river, there's the story of the Colorado and the water crisis facing the Southwest. It strikes a good balance and isn't too wonky or overbearing with info and depressing news. At the end they talk about good solutions for the river and the communities that depend on it.

It's my dream to float the Grand, and this makes me want to do it even more!

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

The best jeans

I was so excited to discover jeans that fit well and look nice, I just had to share. These jeans are awesome. Best pair I've ever had. I highly recommend them!

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Kudos to Dr. Chrissy!

In honor of Chrissy, who recently defended her dissertation (passing with distinction!) here are some photos I found last night. A little trip down memory lane!

Graduation!


Amy and Chrissy at graduation (was this some after party/lunch at the Rio?? I forget.)


On the back of this photo, in Joy's handwriting it says, "The first football game at Watkins Mill High School. Score: Smithsburg, 22. Wolverines, 0." This photo really cracks me up. Look at Bobby! And Emily Green!



Getting ready for prom (?) in Joy's room.

Thursday, March 6, 2008

Gearing up for a girly weekend

John is in Eugene for work (the big environmental law conference is this weekend), so I'm planning some girly activities for the weekend. On Saturday afternoon I have some neighbor friends coming over for tea and treats. Sunday I'm headed to a friend's baby shower. I've been wanting to check out Georgia Blu, an adorable kids' boutique in our neighborhood, so now's my chance to buy a gift there.

I'll also be painting my toenails, as my mom suggested.

The last time John was away for work I watched Out of Africa, Persuasion, When Harry Met Sally, and Sex and the City. Need to rent some new chick flicks for the weekend! I love Netflix!

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Thank you, Bobby

My colleagues often ask me why I'm laughing out loud in my office. It's usually because my brother has sent me some random email, like this link he sent today.