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“It’s funny how you can try an ingredient or dish multiple times and not like it, then suddenly you have it in a new way that’s eye-opening. I was pretty sure I didn’t like Japanese sweet red beans (azuki). I’ve tried them many times and never really understood the obsession (it’s in EVERY DESSERT HERE!).
Then we had a delicious meal at our friends’ house, and they served a scoop of matcha ice cream with a few tiny mochi rounds and a spoonful of azuki for dessert. The combination of flavors and textures was a revelation! The azuki added just enough sweetness to cut the bitter matcha, while matching its earthiness. And the mochi provided something satisfying to chew while the creamy ice cream melted in your mouth. I finally understand why people like it so much. I’m still not sure about the paste form (anko), but I’ll keep trying it.”
*This cold weather has me craving chowder. This one with chipotle chicken is right up my alley, but smoky shrimp sounds pretty fantastic too. I’m a huge sucker for Thai flavors, and I love that the creaminess in this chowder comes from coconut milk instead of real cream (plus: crab!).
*A really amazing table makeover that perfectly captures the concrete trend in interior design.
*WHAT? How do I see this? Added to the bucket list.
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“Everyone says this, but it’s true: you don’t know how much stuff you have until you move. I have entire outfits I don’t recall purchasing. Camera lenses and old film all over the place. DON’T ASK ABOUT THE WASHI TAPE COLLECTION. I just don’t know what to do with it all. Predictably, now that I know I own it, I really really “need” it. (I’m rolling my own eyes at myself here.)
I shared an Instagram photo a few days ago about moving through all my beauty samples under the hashtag #sampledout and I would love for y’all to participate. One, because I love beauty product reviews, especially from friends. And two, well, I just kind of want to know that you need a hashtag and bursting bathroom storage to motivate you a little too.”
* Draw Me A Song. I’ll take one of each, please!
* A Mini Chocolate Layer Cake that’s just perfect for two.
* Loving this DIY Ombre Perpetual Calendar. So sweet AND smart!
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One year ago: Parmesan breadcrumbs stuffed artichokes. One of my family’s generations-old Italian recipes and one of my absolute favorite treats! xo, A
Two years ago: Mexican chocolate bread pudding. Creamy. chocolatey, cinnamon-y. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
Our DIY Origami Heart Garland was included in sortra.com’s 20 Brilliant DIY Valentine’s Day Decorations.
Awww, thanks so much for including my mini chocolate cakes! Happy V-Day to you two 🙂
Carla! I need to use up all my samples from random subscription boxes. I also need to do a “what I used up” blog post, saying whatI liked/disliked about the product. Less is more! I need to remember that. But I don’t want to give away all my beautiful dior stuff lol
I’m happy to report you inspired me to start using my samples! Hope you ladies had a great weekend!