Birthday Eats

My birthday morning began with a 14 mile hilly run that was quite interesting.  I got slightly lost, ran into a bear, my calf muscles were screaming - but hey it was unforgettable (thanks for the help Colleen).  If you told me at age 32 I'd run 14 miles at the age of 42 for fun I'd never, ever believe you.  Anything is possible.

After the run, my friends the Brousard's organized a potluck and it FAR exceeded my expectations.  Now these people understand good quality food - I was VERY impressed. 

My present today?  Duct tape flip flops from my kids.  Seriously, I love their creativity. 

Check out my new duct tape flip flops made by my kids - so sweet!

My birthday meal consisted of nothing but TOMATOES.  Wow, I'm over-run with them and I'm not complaining.  Here's a picture of one days harvest - WOW!

Greta hugging the daily harvest

First I made gazpacho soup which I love.  BTW, this tastes so much better the next day.  The recipe looks complicated, but it's actually very quick, simple and delicious.  I've been looking for a good gazpacho recipe and this is fantastic - here's the link:  Awesome Gazpacho Soup




Awesome Gazpacho Soup

 

And, I made my favorite salsa:

5 tomatoes
1/2 cup cilantro
1 onion
2 cloves of garlic
Salsa Seasoning (sold at all of our local stores)

Chop veggies, mix with seasoning and let sit for one hour.



Salsa

I'm breathing a sigh of relief since we FINISHED up our Summer 2012 Bucket List
We've had a super busy week trying to squeeze it all in and I'm very happy to be home.   Greta said Mall of America was her favorite trip, Gus picked the Packer game, and Graham LOVED Skyzone Trampoline.   I personally loved my trip to the MN State Fair and the Motley Crue / Kiss concert.  At the State Fair I consumed deep fried green beans, sweet potato tater tots, and jalapeno cheese deep fried on a stick.  Hey, you only live once! 

I went to Redbery Books tonight in Cable to buy myself a new book for my birthday.  When I was 22 I never imagined that 20 years later I'd be happy to be home on my birthday with a good book.   Sounds lame I'm sure, but it's been one heck of a week.

What are you reading?

Kristin