It's been a while...

It's hard to believe that someone can write a blog every day.  Seems a little daunting to me, not to mention taking up time - I guess after I get used to it, writing daily will become just another thing I do every day.

I don't usually get involved with political banter but could you even believe Rick Perry in last night's debate, talk about "stepping in it" as he so eloquently put it.  Know your f^@#ing platform for Christ's sake.

As part of what I do each day, I take personal inventory and try to improve on my thoughts and actions.  Sometimes it's easier said than done though. I guess this is as good of a place as any to record what I've done throughout the day and how I've tried to improve...

Today I got up early, helped with getting lunches and breakfasts prepared then left early for what I thought was an MRI appointment.  After checking in and waiting for about an hour the lady (who was very nice I might add) says to me "John, do you know you're really early for your appointment?"  Turns out the appointment was for 12:30 PM, not 8 am as I had written it down...damn, part of the morning wasted!  I rescheduled for 7:15 AM on the 18th  Quite early but if I have to fast, the earlier the better - right?

They say I might have cancer.  That there are cells which are reproducing too fast and either the liver is doing a GREAT job at regenerating itself, or those cells are cancerous - I'm going with the former explanation!  Anyway, that's the reason for the test.  I have way too much to do right now to slip backwards on the recovery to better health...HOLD ON, LET'S GO!

I guess now is the time to get shit done around the house while I'm there, no more just hanging around.  I did start "working out" over last weekend.  I was a little sore, but nothing earth shattering.  I did a lot of bicep curls, forearm curls, triceps and lat work out along with sit ups and push ups.  If I can continue doing that while I watch tv, I'll be stoked.

Absolutely swamped @ work, have way too much shit to do and take care of.  I'll write later...

UEA

Since moving here to Utah, I haven't really understood what UEA weekend is, or why they have it.  I've heard that it had something to do with the opening of the deer hunt, and kids needed to be pulled out of school without any punishment so they (schools) took the end of the week off; but what about those guys at work who don't have kids living at home who all of the sudden disappear for a long weekend during the middle of October?  I guess I should invest in a couple of guns/4-wheelers/camper trailer/etc. so I can take advantage of the "religion" that is the deer hunt...don't get me wrong, if any of you know Julie's grandfather and family you'll know it is indeed a religion - complete with the sacramental wine/sherry and all of the trimmings.  Now that's the way to hunt and camp!
This weekend is the preparation for my chili.  Every year I make chili for Halloween.  With 9 pounds of meat and not a bean in sight, it's a pretty hearty chili.  Consequently, friends, family and neighbors come not only for the candy but for the chili with crusty sourdough bread.  Luckily this year we have a weekend right before Halloween, so I can spend Saturday and Sunday prepping, browning, and cooking.  It's always better after it has been sitting a day anyway, so that will be perfect!
I also need to find the recipe for my Bloody Mary Mix.  Although I'm not partaking of the special additive any more, it is still quite the beverage on it's own.  Add some celery, stuffed olives and a couple of pieces of Giardiniera and you're good to go - not to mention a shrimp or so...

Day Two

No, not all of my posts will be titled with the day, but that's about all I have for now.
With all of the Foodie activities going on, it surprises me we aren't taking advantage of events like the "Head to Tail Feast"...I have to get more informed and up to date on this stuff.

On the subject of great eats, don't miss out on Octoberfest up at Porcupine Grill.  The Beef Stroganoff over spaetzle is amazing (almost compares to mine, if I do say so my damn self), and the Schnitzel is really tasty as well.

I guess for now, I'll chronicle my lunch activities until I have more to add:
Hagerman's Bakery (114th South 7th East) is always a good, go to place for lunch.  Their soups are good and the sandwiches are amazing with the variations in the jalapeño jelly they put on them.
Had lunch at Leatherheads (Right next to the VF Factory outlets) the other day...had a craving for wings and these did the trick! Meaty but not too big, great sauce and not over-done.  Had the special of the day - Philly sandwich with a salad (house vinaigrette) - great sandwich with the Au Jus from the French Dip...all in all a good meal.
Yesterday, I had a Gyro and some deep fried zucchini and mushrooms from Greek Souvlaki - when you want Greek food, you really can't go wrong with this place.
I have been trying to keep my sodium intake down, while increasing calories - not really as easy as I thought.
Did have Julie's meatloaf and garlic mashed potatoes for dinner last night though...I won't eat anyone's meatloaf but hers and might I say DAMN! this was probably her best work yet!  Way to go Hon!
Looking for good Mexican food around this end of the valley...I'll have to do a little investigative work and let you know...

Originally written 10.20.2011 11:00 AM

Here we go...

I really never thought I'd create a Blog, or post anything on one for that matter; however, with the recent changes and improvements I have made to my life I thought "What the Hell, I have a few things to share".

As a self proclaimed Foodie (OK, so others say I am as well), I have come upon some amazing food, recipes, and culinary experiences.  This just might be a perfect forum to discuss them.

As time progresses, I'll take this opportunity to share what I've found and maybe others can enjoy life's bounty along with me.

Please be patient, stay with me and ENJOY!