Deep Creek Lake

Over the weekend we went to Deep Creek Lake in Maryland with the family.  We had a great time playing lots of games, eating, and enjoying quality time with everyone. Hope you all had a great weekend!

-A&M

Hi everyone, T here! A lil backstory about me—I call DC my home but I am a Jersey girl at heart. Recently, I took a trip up to spend time with the fam for my dad’s birthday. I know a lot of people assume that going home means being spoiled by your parents for 72 hours, but in my case, not so much… my mom has mandated that I make dinner at least one night. I generally use this time to my advantage, testing out various recipes on the guinea pigs…err…family members. I was fortunate enough to make dinner on my dad’s birthday, so instead of attempting something crazy like a cassoulet, I chose to make a couple of family favorites…

I have been making this roasted acorn squash and gorgonzola pizza since my days in college. It is super easy to make but will definitely impress your diners. The sweetness and spiciness of the squash really plays well with the saltiness of the cheese and the freshness of the arugula. But reader, do be aware that if you are blue cheese adverse, this pizza is not for you. I have made this on several occasions and the blue cheese haters either loathed it or adoried it. Regardless, I LOVE and so does the fam. To accompany the pizza, I made some French onion soup ala Julia Child. This is a good and satisfying recipe if you are on a budget or low on ingredients…you basically need onion, beef stock , white wine, bread and cheese…et voila! Also, the end product is really pretty, who doesn't like pretty food? In the recipe, it says to stir onions for 30-40 min to caramelize. I really recommend that you do not skip this step. I know it’s long and tedious, and has taken me longer than 40 min to get the desired colored, but it’s absolutely necessary. Also…don’t nix the wine...because I said so.

-T

Ain't it purrrty

Winter Clothing Drive

We've had such bipolar weather here in DC, but in other parts of the world is has been unbearably cold... being Afghan, when I read this article from NYTimes  about 22 children dying in Refugee Camps in Afghanistan just from the cold made me want to help. I started a Clothing Drive just for close friends and family and the turn out was amazing! We raised over $750 and had over 100 boxes of new and gently used clothes. The Lamia Foundation helped us with the shipping and distribution of the clothes. Here are some pictures from the weekend. 

my garage packed with boxes 

everyone who helped!

Hopefully the next project is the School Supply Drive! 

-M

happy valentine's day!

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homemade hostess cupcakes

roses from the husband 

nutella crepes for dessert 

this year my husband and i didn't feel like doing much, so we ordered chinese and watched a movie in our sweats.  it was by far one of the best valentine's day ever... hope everyone had a great valentine's day with their loved ones.


-A

be my... valentine!

Today is that special day where everyone spends time with that special someone. I personally think its a waste of money! Its an excuse for presents and unnecessary let downs... but I still celebrated it.. I think having a price limit to $10-$20 makes life easier for everyone and the gift more personal.. baking that special someone their favorite treat always wins! well until next year...

Raspberry Valentine Cupcakes 

from Martha  

my baby roxy <3

-M