Xmas cinnamon rolls

Most Snow in My Life

Backyard Snow Brawl

Bravo’s Chicken Scallopini

My wife requested I cook something for her this Valentine’s Day. Her all time favorite dish is Bravo’s Chicken Scallopini, so I gave it my best shot. She liked it, and I gained a new appreciation for her. Cooking is tough, and she does it almost every night for our family. We’re so lucky to have her!

Backyard Jedi in Training

Hario Dome Hand Coffee Grinder

A French Press has long been my go to brew method for coffee, but I’ve always used pre-ground beans. I’ve wanted to try grinding fresh roasted beans at home for a couple years now, and yesterday I decided to order my first grinder. After researching a bit, I learned enough to know conical ceramic burr grinders were preferred over blade grinders or steel burr grinders because they result in more consistent sized grinds and manage heat during the grinding process. Hario is a brand I’m familiar with from ducking into the occasional proper coffee cafe, and I wanted a grinder that I could hand crank. Since my press has wood accents, I opted for a grinder to compliment it. The Hario Dome Hand Grinder fit the bill and has been a pleasure to use this week. The hopper is simple enough to load a small batch of beans in, and the mechanical nature of the burr grinder size adjustment is simple and reliable. The Hario Dome can store 35 grams of ground coffee and travels very well! And it makes a delicious cup of coffee!

making bread

During COVID-19, Holly has been encouraging me to begin learning to make a few things in the kitchen. This morning she taught me to make homemade bread!

I haven’t ever devoted much time to learning my way around a kitchen, and my culinary skills are nearly non-existent, but she has gracefully enticed me to join her and begin to understand the basics. Together, we’ve made three items now, and each time we collaborate my interest continues to grow.

It’s especially nice to have such a beautiful teacher, and I’m enjoying spending time with her in a new way!