tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82340814483876233212024-03-12T17:05:02.746-07:00Pursuit of HappinessPursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.comBlogger679125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-61198730469212948342010-08-04T19:35:00.000-07:002010-08-04T19:37:04.099-07:00Moving DaySo, I'm looking to move The Pursuit. New location:<br /><br /><a href="http://pursuer444.wordpress.com">pursuer444.wordpress.com</a><br /><br />All this, just to be able to post pics from my Iphone.<br /><br />Just?Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-50430208609398450912010-08-04T05:05:00.001-07:002010-08-04T05:05:45.217-07:00A Big Day!It hasbeen almost two years since our town's little, independent grocer went out of business. At the time, his demise was a shocking event for those of us who visited regularly, because he was always busy, had good stuff (gawd, the lamb was the best!), and he would do little things like keep an account and send you a bill at the end of the month. I'm told this started because in some homes the staff did the shopping, and could just put everything on account and didn't have to carry cash. I wouldn't know about such things.<br><br>Anyway, our little grocer decided to expand, took on enormous debt and promptly failed. His store, which was in the middle of town, stood empty, like an open wound for the past two years.<br><br>That is until today! Today, a new era dawns as Fresh Market is opening in the old guy's place. Now I don't know much about FM, but it has to be better than what we've been limited two during the last 24 <br>months! So, my car is positined at the station, and when I get off the train tonight at 7:16, I will be off on yet another culinary adventure. Wish me luck my little gastronauts!<p class='blogium-promo'><small>Posted from <a href="http://totocaster.com/blogium/">Blogium</a> for iPhone</small></p>Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-39450481791085905162010-08-03T17:48:00.000-07:002010-08-04T04:54:20.348-07:0081-year-old sweethearts reunite after 62 years<object style="background-image: url("http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/qIb4xQGUToU/hqdefault.jpg");" width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qIb4xQGUToU&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qIb4xQGUToU&hl=en_US&fs=1" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br><br><br><br><br>I don't know about anyone else, and I'm sure this is a sign that I have serious "issues", but I just found this creepy. Am I nuts?Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-29508553860068500182010-08-03T17:26:00.000-07:002010-08-03T17:29:52.944-07:00Yoga XJust finished another session of Yoga X. Wow! The whole routine is 90 minutes, which is really hard to fit in once a week - yes, I know that sounds crazy - but man, when I do I just can't feel better. Off now for a little dinner.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-21968154774400574782010-08-03T03:48:00.000-07:002010-08-03T04:23:05.033-07:00O'Bama DreamsSo, O'Bama is now appearing iny dreams! How's this?<br><br>I have this dream that O'bama has started a jobs program for inner city yoot. His idea is that they should work as garbage collectors in the suburbs. For some reason, I have to go see how this program is going, so I leave my house and head down to the corner o our street. Sure enough, there is a big ole garbage truck and as I approach, our pres hops out of the cab, dressed in suit, tie, overcoat and scarf. There are a couple black inner city kids on the back and he instructs them top hop off the tuck and go get the garbage. As I approach, he enthusiastically waves and say's hi, while I turn to my companion and say, "I don't know. Is this really the image he wants to craft?"Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-49037099569701949682010-08-02T18:36:00.000-07:002010-08-02T18:49:53.567-07:00Sunday Night Dinner<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpHiLFx5hny6WTkEsMHeJ79OrHeK0BaYqx6hQyLoeTKtwswSiic67tXPI0-0VSXGR35HVcEprW_vUwk48TQ9xSp-4Fk65HdJOW9-TtB-fDxxQfc0uVcGLlqELjPVJddEEBkInTad_gS8/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpHiLFx5hny6WTkEsMHeJ79OrHeK0BaYqx6hQyLoeTKtwswSiic67tXPI0-0VSXGR35HVcEprW_vUwk48TQ9xSp-4Fk65HdJOW9-TtB-fDxxQfc0uVcGLlqELjPVJddEEBkInTad_gS8/s320/014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500994777434265474" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAISTjImCLTSjhg5MAoEP0ACp14es4AIfid8JrB_2Gd7xCqAP7cHeYNZq_4lNsmD-rYVcgn93GKV6FLexKMS8Sp3h18rD78v3OOugFKkUOANl2SiIYXfaM9E7kB7o4q9zDjwuSq_3T6Y/s1600/032.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAISTjImCLTSjhg5MAoEP0ACp14es4AIfid8JrB_2Gd7xCqAP7cHeYNZq_4lNsmD-rYVcgn93GKV6FLexKMS8Sp3h18rD78v3OOugFKkUOANl2SiIYXfaM9E7kB7o4q9zDjwuSq_3T6Y/s320/032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500992946636917090" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-5FvqefHgbYeRIFkvVC5oyPP3CTd2t0R-FqaWpD9ELrJJ6tBu1xWy3HmtiI9piF70TKymObaT_srt3ihb3sMoS4-H7RXxgtF8GGr0kZf-hzstvcLoJ_p6pcavz8pM1GYUeLiD3pE7JA/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-5FvqefHgbYeRIFkvVC5oyPP3CTd2t0R-FqaWpD9ELrJJ6tBu1xWy3HmtiI9piF70TKymObaT_srt3ihb3sMoS4-H7RXxgtF8GGr0kZf-hzstvcLoJ_p6pcavz8pM1GYUeLiD3pE7JA/s320/030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500992936792975298" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />So, Sunday dinner this week was something a little light. I've been wanting to do a little gazpacho and grilled fish, and I thought, "why not tonight?" And so it was. Still working the photography thing with my new camera, but these turned out rather well. I also did one of the gazpacho ingredients, but it seems to have dropped off. I'll see if I can add it later.<br /><br />As for the fish, I did it real simple like. Started with some lovely looking swordfish, used ample salt and pepper (one of the secrets of great grilling) and did for five minutes over a medium hot fire. Usually, I'll add a little alder wood with fish, but for Sunday I kept it real simple. When the fish was done, I gave it a light brush of olive oil, oregano, parsley, lemon and garlic and served. Just perfect.<br /><br />Update: Gazpacho ingredients added. Man, that was a fine soup!Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-75100471471480597792010-07-31T06:02:00.000-07:002010-07-31T06:03:14.026-07:00P90xStarting off another round today. Day One: Chest and Back is in the books. Now off to Miss Jenny with Mrs. P for some PilatesPursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-81734686543083629352010-07-30T16:12:00.001-07:002010-07-30T16:17:20.398-07:00WTFGawd, I couldn't be more bored with politics right now. O'Bama has proven to be the second coming of Jimmah, somebody in the Repubs, bizarrely, seems to think Sarah Palin is capable of more than reciting tonight's specials at the Olive Garden, and news of both is delivered like the halftime show of a Albanian soccer game where the producer just realized he didn't have budget to copy the stupid fox nfl gameday robot thing.<br /><br />Is there any hope?Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-89531939490357218052009-05-19T18:40:00.000-07:002009-05-19T18:58:14.593-07:00The End Game?Clearly, I haven't been to most prolific of bloggers in the past year or so. This is particularly distressing since there is so much for us to discuss! I mean, really how often does one get to blog an ongoing economic crisis, a new president, the ridiculous torture controversy (raised by a few limp wristed blokes who don't know what it takes to win against an enemy that targets civilians as their core strategy. Just sayin'..) and my ongoing fabulous culinary excursions.<div><br /></div><div>So kind of a drag really. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today though I here to do you a favor.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.investorsinsight.com/blogs/john_mauldins_outside_the_box/archive/2009/05/18/the-end-game-draws-nigh-the-future-evolution-of-the-debt-to-gdp-ratio.aspx">READ THIS</a></div><div><br /></div><div>No, seriously go back and click on that link right now. This is important.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are currently in the midst of an epochal moment and a guy named "Woody" has nailed it.</div><div><br /></div><div>From his conclusion:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; ">"This essay began with a demonstration of the all-important role of the <i>evolution</i> of a nation's Debt-to-GDP ratio. The direction of this evolution is a good proxy for the future success or failure of the nation. We argued that a one-time shock (like today's US recession) that drives the initial Debt ratio way up does <i>not</i> pose the problem most people assume. <i>Long run recovery is possible, but only if policies are adopted that drive the growth rate of the numerator down, that of the denominator up, and thus that of the ratio down."</i></span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Seriously nailed it. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you're interested in more, here is his <a href="www.sedinc.com">site</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-82830064469576077142009-05-13T19:51:00.000-07:002009-05-13T20:01:58.253-07:00Smothered, Covered, Chunked and........Shot?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTH7CmlanKWjpGv0ycIHnT9WU0J5oiyo60VJyWgfxfhfFtvqhDzHWb1FvSR1ERrWDh3woS5lTr-ZOOqrwPmAW-MU6T38iyb6okuOSfENIvQkwdKlzrE1-GcYWTrmOnZM-nXWbX8aK0ld8/s1600-h/waffle.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTH7CmlanKWjpGv0ycIHnT9WU0J5oiyo60VJyWgfxfhfFtvqhDzHWb1FvSR1ERrWDh3woS5lTr-ZOOqrwPmAW-MU6T38iyb6okuOSfENIvQkwdKlzrE1-GcYWTrmOnZM-nXWbX8aK0ld8/s320/waffle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335509506012019746" /></a><br />Holy Crap! <div><br /></div><div>As everyone knows, I happen to be the world's foremost fan of the beloved Waffle House. Where I once cringed at the prospect of venturing south of the Mason - Dixon line, I now embrace the prospect. And it's all because of my discovery of Waffle House. It's genius is the pure simplicity; waffles, hash browns and a few other assorted things that you really don't need. Drive up, belly up to the bar and in less than 10 minutes you're digging into a breakfast that is the stuff of American dreams.</div><div><br /></div><div>But<a href="http://www.wltx.com/news/story.aspx?storyid=73684&catid=2"> this story</a>.....well this story is a bit disturbing. Shot by a waitress at Waffle House? Who could imagine such a thing? Sure we all heard about the Kid Rock fight at Waffle House last year, but candidly who hasn't wanted the beat the tar outta that dude? </div><div><br /></div><div>Well, hopefully this is a "one off" sorta thing, cuz I don't want to think I'll need to be packing on my next foray to Waffle House, which for the record, will be in exactly 15 days.</div>Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-24298318344208168202009-05-09T10:14:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:15:04.032-07:00I'm Back!Having successfully evaded the authorities (once again!). I'm back. Stay tuned.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-49320995802749591182009-02-28T12:51:00.000-08:002009-02-28T12:52:20.771-08:00Lying LowOn the run from the authorities. <div><br /></div><div>Will Return Soon</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-89282183286845646882009-02-06T13:05:00.000-08:002009-05-09T10:13:12.956-07:00Enoteca Turi<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFM2Ge8ebw5F_dWaM4efCUBcydAV0YD2U_eu3EXAuXMUdFGcGKkLVzlQEFwK_iquVctb5CoKtCHM7pV6wrnuH_QgOizI7Yb1aAPZRY4vxwo4UD4P-CsX77qB9FPlPZAoHIwVsojVJY4c4/s1600-h/100_2098.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFM2Ge8ebw5F_dWaM4efCUBcydAV0YD2U_eu3EXAuXMUdFGcGKkLVzlQEFwK_iquVctb5CoKtCHM7pV6wrnuH_QgOizI7Yb1aAPZRY4vxwo4UD4P-CsX77qB9FPlPZAoHIwVsojVJY4c4/s320/100_2098.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299803067782076946" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkUFSFr_YZXpHXVVfyoxALOvtjELEKQbxnR8e7fScwXy0fA2xxYqzYNwsOWlRJp3oJJxCUtnIC-EiVbZg8_d6LxaIjJN8SO_-NR7CJ1VBTZFlRLEHmiUFzhf0S2ia7e413TgEa94Iue_k/s1600-h/100_2097.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkUFSFr_YZXpHXVVfyoxALOvtjELEKQbxnR8e7fScwXy0fA2xxYqzYNwsOWlRJp3oJJxCUtnIC-EiVbZg8_d6LxaIjJN8SO_-NR7CJ1VBTZFlRLEHmiUFzhf0S2ia7e413TgEa94Iue_k/s320/100_2097.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299803063129633762" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwAgG6e9MyQf78-AwFsS8eLjmk1HMEm5bc0X0qe1Z_dvenptRa3fJ2I2q76NHV5LpocsKfwXdG5vfS2xRJn8YOCITm4DETIrSEw3FI0prH8aP9gesWWMYc0nT6LWf7pPUmOR-XkJEbgM/s1600-h/100_2096.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwAgG6e9MyQf78-AwFsS8eLjmk1HMEm5bc0X0qe1Z_dvenptRa3fJ2I2q76NHV5LpocsKfwXdG5vfS2xRJn8YOCITm4DETIrSEw3FI0prH8aP9gesWWMYc0nT6LWf7pPUmOR-XkJEbgM/s320/100_2096.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299803061866532770" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZ-C-G8IijPB_PjzWQfpc72Z_Vv9ESAzuje3CO6Z-9UnZEGPX-ePBsSkllIeQDs4mwJcRlq2k-aQ1VZ8wz2qjQ2BgcRSPa9y4qRB1TLGeAOyfcBXpSqzIFKIwwpIJzvNOviehFpQ2-JQ/s1600-h/100_2095.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZ-C-G8IijPB_PjzWQfpc72Z_Vv9ESAzuje3CO6Z-9UnZEGPX-ePBsSkllIeQDs4mwJcRlq2k-aQ1VZ8wz2qjQ2BgcRSPa9y4qRB1TLGeAOyfcBXpSqzIFKIwwpIJzvNOviehFpQ2-JQ/s320/100_2095.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299803057479036706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMF0XQ3ItnH_F_VXfz5d_834R2VV8vnD-Dmvfs5H5AD1Q-DtienfqjGmlvjbyg0fOCgz6O-v9daTAgn9pPZahF6AVLeAQPaaLk_JiiZXCU3FuY2f_AG1SK3Y0tytZuQEZx9tTSEirRHY/s1600-h/100_2094.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMF0XQ3ItnH_F_VXfz5d_834R2VV8vnD-Dmvfs5H5AD1Q-DtienfqjGmlvjbyg0fOCgz6O-v9daTAgn9pPZahF6AVLeAQPaaLk_JiiZXCU3FuY2f_AG1SK3Y0tytZuQEZx9tTSEirRHY/s320/100_2094.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299803055207799698" /></a><br />I awoke Thursday morning to another day of snow and work ahead of me. I turned on the TV and waited for a knock on the door announcing the arrival of my morning coffee. As the BBC flashed on, I found myself face to face with the grim visage of Gordon Brown, who for some reason decided to announce that we are on the precipice of a global depression. This, after announcing late last year the it was He who saved the global economy with his plan to recapitalize banks.<br /><br />So what's up with that Gordy?<br /><br />I must confess that I find these feckless pronouncements from our leaders to be most distressing. What happened to the stiff British upper lip, or the American can do spirit? Why, with an admittedly severe global downturn, have our leaders taken up the cause of cheerleading the economy into oblivion?<br /><br />And most importantly, what is this loathsome display going to do to our dining establishments?<br /><br />Well, I may not be able to save the economy, and I certainly can't give everyone a job, but as I sat there watching the vile Head of England pronounce the end of civilization as we know it I vowed that I would do my small part to put the economy on more sound footing. I would dine at <a href="http://www.enotecaturi.com/index.html">Enoteca Turi </a>that very night!<br /><br />So after a day in the office, I ventured back to my hotel, dropped my bag and instructed the taxi driver to take me to 28 High Putney Street on the double. I arrived at the restaurant at 730pm on the dot and requested a table for one. Disturbingly, I noted that only three other tables were occupied, and I silently cursed PM Brown's name. Already the knuckle dragging mouth breather was having an impact!<br /><br />Enoteca advertises itself as a family run restaurant and this certainly seemed to be the case. I was escorted to my table by a matronly sort, and on my way I noted that there were only 4 other wait staff in a place with approximately 30 tables. The menu was limited, but sufficiently varied and I placed my order; Artichoke Cardoons, Spinach and Rosemary Risotto with Chicken Livers, and Milk roasted Pork Shoulder. I also requested a bottle of sparkling water and a bottle of the house primitivo to wash everything down.<br /><br />The cardoons arrived promptly and looked delicious. I will say that the artichokes themselves, as they had been at Zaferrano earlier in the week, were a bit light on flavor. Perhaps it was the season. Having said that, the dish was quite lovely. The cardoons were stuffed with a light goat cheese and fried perfectly. They were presented in a sort of potato puree with dabs of olive oil and a small mound of crispy leaks was nestled in the center of the plate. As with all of the food here, this dish was not terribly sophisticated, but none-the-less, expertly prepared and quite good.<br /><br />Next up, the risotto came to my table on a subtle waft of rosemary. This dish is built around the time honored concept of strong herbs and organ meat, as had been my sage and beef kidney at Zafferano. If I were to quibble I would say I enjoy my risotto a tad more toothsome, but otherwise the spinach, rosemary and kidneys were quite lovely.<br /><br />The final dish, milk roasted pork shoulder was the one I was really anticipating. Milk roasted? Certainly a new concept to me! The shoulder was presented with cabbage and a puree of celeriac and apple with a paper thin slice of dried apple in each mound of puree. Completely delicious! Most interestingly, from the first bite this dish reminded me of thanksgiving, only with a nice hunk of pork instead of turkey. I definitely will try to replicate this at home!<br /><br />To round out the meal I settled on a polenta cake with blood oranges and mascarpone cream. The perfect finish to a delightful meal.<br /><br />And so my little contribution to the British dining scene ended with me as a satisfied customer, and Enoteca Turi on the "Must Get Back There" list. Oh, and the sparsely populated tables at the start of dinner that I wrote off to old Gordon's foul influence? Almost completely full by 830pm. <div><br /></div><div>Harry Truman, a leader who knew a thing or two about leading a country through challenges once said that its a recession when your neighbor loses his job, but a depression when you lose your job. Perhaps I read old Gordy wrong. Is there a vote coming up soon by any chance?!</div>Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-43613946517222419522009-02-03T07:21:00.000-08:002009-05-09T10:13:12.970-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsA619IZKmjxMlmzC3Vq01QI1PteB-rCztOPmoJNgFVW-qOncDZJAfYsvion0jkR9xL7xCt6OUqtdEqHbRaGWDPsdWQhN-GrRzWtK4wVEKShHMMcMyIfW1m7kGnALqaMZ7IjKEHnWTTA/s1600-h/100_2092.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsA619IZKmjxMlmzC3Vq01QI1PteB-rCztOPmoJNgFVW-qOncDZJAfYsvion0jkR9xL7xCt6OUqtdEqHbRaGWDPsdWQhN-GrRzWtK4wVEKShHMMcMyIfW1m7kGnALqaMZ7IjKEHnWTTA/s320/100_2092.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298592328444933458" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTUkIE4vxaZWrnyJnKIFLnK-2SRBygHLKja5NzYGuult2hQdokYt90Wzl9YB0huYvIGkLkLf6zhP60i-_lIRCiSJ_v9vlxQKfV6baDsC7aTpenplWHy2-_E92IprYCS95Guk7KkclsIA/s1600-h/100_2093.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTUkIE4vxaZWrnyJnKIFLnK-2SRBygHLKja5NzYGuult2hQdokYt90Wzl9YB0huYvIGkLkLf6zhP60i-_lIRCiSJ_v9vlxQKfV6baDsC7aTpenplWHy2-_E92IprYCS95Guk7KkclsIA/s320/100_2093.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298592312461444690" /></a><br />Quick update from London. Despite the "historic" snowfall (6 inches; the Brits are wussies!) I did manage to get out and around the crippled city. After a morning and early afternoon of meetings I hopped in a cab and told the driver to head to 19 Theobald's street. As we approached our destination the driver began looking for the number at which point I told him, "I'm going to The Fryers Delight, for a little lunch". "Ah, the Fryer's Delight! Why didn't you say so that's where all the cabbies go" was his response. <br /><br />At this very moment, I knew I had made an excellent choice.<br /><br />I paid the driver and headed in to the clean, but decidedly spartan place. The waitress was quick, and I ordered a plate of cod and chips. A little heat would have been nice, but I suppose London isn't prepared for the type of weather that us Chicagoans take for granted.<br /><br />My food arrived unbelievably fast, and it was excellent. The Cod, a big ole piece of fish was darn near cooked perfect and certainly the best fried fish I've had. The batter was nicely flavored, and provided the cod with a crispy, flavorful coating that was not the slightest bit greasy. Good temperature discipline on the fry vat was clearly a core competency! The best thing about the place is that they fry in, as they refer to it, "beef drippings" which as I understand it is the traditional Engtlish way. Even more impressive when one considers that the joint's proprietors are a couple of Italian brothers. <br /><br />Bottom line: Highly recommended.<br /><br />For Dinner I popped over to Zafferano, a Michelin two star that happens to be next door to my hotel. I didn't have reservations, but I was counting on the "historic snow" to keep business down a bit, and my strategy paid off with a table in the bar. I momentarily wondered what happened to the traditional British stiff upper lip, but then figured I shouldn't question my good fortune and took my seat.<br /><br />The amuse bouche was a traditional onion tart. Very well done, nice pastry.<br /><br />I then started my first course with a warm roasted artichoke salad with veal shins. Delightful! Although, to be honest, it would have been just as good without the artichokes as they really had very little flavor.<br /><br />Course number two was papardelle in a saffron scented sauce with pig cheeks. This dish was profound. The hint of saffron was perfect and the bits of onion among the shredded meat really made this an outstanding course.<br /><br />Course three was veal kidney with warm lentils. When the dish arrived at my table, I must say I immediately became concerned; the scent of sage was quite strong and I was afraid the chef might have had a bit of a heavy hand. This only turned out to be partially true and the lentils, kidney and sage mostly worked together in the dish.<br /><br />Wine was by the glass, as I didn't want to order a full bottle, and wasn't terribly enamored with the half bottle selections. I enjoyed a Sangiovese with the first two courses and had a very good Montepulciano with the Kidney.<br /><br />Desert was a chocolate fondant, better known to us as a molten chocolate cake with a scoop of espresso flavored ice milk.<br /><br />Zafferano was good and at 80 pounds for the above, a good deal considering the two starsPursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-1833386206823621202008-12-10T19:20:00.000-08:002009-05-09T10:13:12.977-07:00Great Moments in Photo Journalism<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5imTdahf8Az3lMkYa1gm00Yjq2Rar_AeraXb-65PF7v4_IGsS3VAlBdnugG0FUiS9tVmuk9-Aq6iOIGORAj9qowEJ34TLknh8TVirLUws7KCNK66iqC8Nx88gjMIotjxqQrmpgBUvcmo/s1600-h/121008blago.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 211px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5imTdahf8Az3lMkYa1gm00Yjq2Rar_AeraXb-65PF7v4_IGsS3VAlBdnugG0FUiS9tVmuk9-Aq6iOIGORAj9qowEJ34TLknh8TVirLUws7KCNK66iqC8Nx88gjMIotjxqQrmpgBUvcmo/s320/121008blago.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278367285818776994" border="0" /></a><br />Get the Pulitzer folks on the blower! Best picture of the year.<br /><br />Rats, indeed.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-29003471335537702752008-10-08T18:01:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.301-07:00Do You Inhale?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9S_P80DnlG-HUfQPaQkaTHFeLglwwpfjiAfCCRdqSEp1K3ZbOXQCi5vOm8e7U7gjx794dl2mNrLKNkYPmyh1wroVjAocp5aoy9Q3fTjzoJTKFZUtLBzi9PCtebm2gf-tyM9gbjfuC0-g/s1600-h/doyouinhalecouple2L.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254953171674865282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9S_P80DnlG-HUfQPaQkaTHFeLglwwpfjiAfCCRdqSEp1K3ZbOXQCi5vOm8e7U7gjx794dl2mNrLKNkYPmyh1wroVjAocp5aoy9Q3fTjzoJTKFZUtLBzi9PCtebm2gf-tyM9gbjfuC0-g/s320/doyouinhalecouple2L.jpg" border="0" /></a> Is it me or do they seem to be asking an entirely different question here? I'll bet he's hoping her oral fixation doesn't end with a desire for a scratchy throat and hoarse cough!<br /><br />In any case, I seem to have stumbled on a small little treasure. The link will pop you over to the Stanford School of Medicine's online gallery of cigarette ads through the ages. Interesting to see how an industry, quite knowingly it seems, worked to addict a generation to its killer product. Hoarse cough? Scratchy throat? Poor wind? Why these in one way or another are all turned upside down to actually sell the product that we all know caused them! Brilliant, in an evil sort of way.<br /><br />I think the Lucky Strikes are my faves. The overt use of women as sex objects is something that wouldn't pass muster these days. But then what am I saying? None of these adds would pass muster! A baby promoting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Marlboros</span>? Santa having a relaxing smoke? Its a crazy mixed up world where evil has triumphed and our culture's most benign, indeed pure, icons are used to promote the killer weed.<br /><br />Just one thing I don't get. What's the deal with the bride packing a carton of Chesterfields?Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-38676970325584708922008-10-07T17:54:00.001-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.312-07:00A PredictionIf John McCain is the definitive winner in tonight's debate, markets will have a substantial rally tomorrow. If Obama is the winner, or if there is a draw, markets will fall.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-70128277503573911902008-07-30T17:27:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.295-07:00How Do I Get Tickets To This!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvUpwdMGtRvYx5v4vshabE1gbjHlQVtyoKwT9KhE8kqAwb4QP4b9F0y0E0k5gaNA0i3y70PmeJA5TPAhMpIY8ciFChkZt1UPKLFZkR4YKGj3rQyhi4acd6IE1Jb_JdPu6LBncEHoQkD0/s1600-h/dita_von_teese_moment_5_big.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvUpwdMGtRvYx5v4vshabE1gbjHlQVtyoKwT9KhE8kqAwb4QP4b9F0y0E0k5gaNA0i3y70PmeJA5TPAhMpIY8ciFChkZt1UPKLFZkR4YKGj3rQyhi4acd6IE1Jb_JdPu6LBncEHoQkD0/s320/dita_von_teese_moment_5_big.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228969490312199378" /></a><br />Well, this should prove most interesting. It seems that Prince Charles has "accidently" booked Ms. von Teese to perform at Harrys birthday.<br /><br />What a guy!<br /><br />Besides finding the said Ms. von Teese quite alluring, I'd love to see how the royals react to her act. Anyone know how I get invited?Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-20297131102655694282008-07-20T17:01:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.317-07:00Your Daily ZenI wanted to direct my other reader to my buddy Eva's latest post. She is doing a month of gratitude, and today is garden day. <br /><br />Total zen.<br /><br />I dig this especially because it (with apologies to Eva for soiling her post with politics) speaks the truth to Algore's lie. I'm sure most will believe I'm putting too much into a simple post about gardening, but in my view, the world is a system which we are but a mere part. It seems to me that the thought that we, as simple humans, can throw this system out of balance is the height of hubris and end of the world fear mongering. A simple garden is God's evidence that this thing is so much bigger than us. <br /><br />Individually, or collectively.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-87481421972418685822008-07-10T20:02:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.322-07:00I Answer The Question: "Who Is Robert Parker"Chicago Foodies, a blog by some folks who seem nice enough asked the question, "Who is Robert Parker.<br /><br />I couldn't <a href="http://www.chicagofoodies.com/2008/07/who-the-hell-is.html#comments">help myself</a>.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-21436421574583783862008-07-10T19:46:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.289-07:00About O'Bama's Euro Fixation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjXKLrkV9v_nOTfNKLdhW42UARaJiKe__FMCYp4xcFzpGiLfXGR3gOjA4vT4Wf41UWMkFfR3HLC0028WVqfZFC4SS78yWR2SpH6ryXZEFDB8VsUol69-vZkKLNbgDZkSJxv1ldRD7W2OY/s1600-h/obama_presidential_seal.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjXKLrkV9v_nOTfNKLdhW42UARaJiKe__FMCYp4xcFzpGiLfXGR3gOjA4vT4Wf41UWMkFfR3HLC0028WVqfZFC4SS78yWR2SpH6ryXZEFDB8VsUol69-vZkKLNbgDZkSJxv1ldRD7W2OY/s320/obama_presidential_seal.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221582681635517154" /></a><br /><br /><br />I always enjoy the moment when Americans leave the U.S. for the first time and head to Europe. They love the outdoor cafes, the trams, and they feel a little self conscious about the language thing. It never fails; they always come back with this dewy eyed "Europe is just the best!" sort of attitude.<br /><br />Of course the spell wears off after a couple of trips when they realize that European society isn't quite as great as initial experiences led them to believe. Class mobility is extremely limited, governmental intrusions into every day life are much greater, and all those multi-lingual Europeans? Well, to a large degree it is the educated class only. If daddy was a security guard, or if you didn't do so well on those boards when you were 12, there is a good chance you didn't get the education that others received.<br /><br />To me, O'Bama reveals an innocence and lack of cultural sophistication that is frankly, surprising given his supposed international background. So while I can agree that it would be nice for American kids to learn a second language, and indeed both my children are, it is hardly necessary. I've traveled the world on business my entire career. Negotiated deals, had people on multiple continents report to me while I was working for a European bank. Don't speak nuttin' but good ole American.<br /><br />Presidential timber? The kid just doesn't have it. Perhaps McCain could make him Secretary of Education.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-56904474312475415222008-06-26T18:38:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.327-07:00"Load Up On Guns"<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/02ps-5lbMLU&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/02ps-5lbMLU&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />In celebration of today's Heller decision.<br /><br />Oh, and the great seal lasted one day. When are you people going to wake up to this guy? See post below.Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-58884725456803050052008-06-21T07:11:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.284-07:00Aren't We Rushing Things?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eJw-2cafKyUj6RCy7sgAanMUFXdud2YnMsa4DEh7E3mB7ohm1WX2fBiBk6BiWr5iE86viA6wcWcPe4e1B9jT-6uk89zfdk10qvw3kS9WI8Z4d3jNw6DjkDNsRWRObhozTkWV9PBbJoc/s1600-h/obama_presidential_seal.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eJw-2cafKyUj6RCy7sgAanMUFXdud2YnMsa4DEh7E3mB7ohm1WX2fBiBk6BiWr5iE86viA6wcWcPe4e1B9jT-6uk89zfdk10qvw3kS9WI8Z4d3jNw6DjkDNsRWRObhozTkWV9PBbJoc/s320/obama_presidential_seal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214339903076392098" border="0" /></a><br />Perhaps the single trait I find most disturbing about our friend Mr. Obama is his arrogance. I'm aware that all politicians have an over inflated sense of self importance, but Barak's preening is just a bit much for my tastes. Others, with less exposure to my state's junior senator haven't perhaps experienced the full metal Barak yet.<br /><br />This picture, I think, is just a glimpse of things to come. What's the over/under on how long until the new seal is retired?Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-72111826162887664552008-05-17T20:26:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.278-07:00Pursuit's 18 Hours of Smoke<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Xzv8WQ6CtctJliYWg3ZjXYBeMOItyIwnPmklKM552WegalKRp0x7JGZlBFUfVXOrJsHFkjCqJTsiJcR37eeuJa2aI2WKDpdIchZTIVpCBzR-q805eZK2u40DkT5tBvp2BDoUdY53ESk/s1600-h/100_1686.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Xzv8WQ6CtctJliYWg3ZjXYBeMOItyIwnPmklKM552WegalKRp0x7JGZlBFUfVXOrJsHFkjCqJTsiJcR37eeuJa2aI2WKDpdIchZTIVpCBzR-q805eZK2u40DkT5tBvp2BDoUdY53ESk/s320/100_1686.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201554776664476914" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeO5Q2NH7I02-nmG7wtG3c-PHycXcCqolDBREirD7FU2lobMx-HTwX2n_YZ0g6IrmzDLC25X2jWtDhox3REKbIfR3XJnHdy9feyxZ0yjKA9etVeC_ygMR_oMRI7A3X5FsD12KyUWmumA/s1600-h/100_1689.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeO5Q2NH7I02-nmG7wtG3c-PHycXcCqolDBREirD7FU2lobMx-HTwX2n_YZ0g6IrmzDLC25X2jWtDhox3REKbIfR3XJnHdy9feyxZ0yjKA9etVeC_ygMR_oMRI7A3X5FsD12KyUWmumA/s320/100_1689.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201554780959444226" /></a><br />Ok, slightly less than 18 hours, but the meat was talkin' to me and, as everyone knows, you got to listen to the meat brother.<br /><br />Brisket 14 hours, shoulder 16. Pics above. I'm havin' some more wine and crashing.<br /><br />Life is good baby!Pursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8234081448387623321.post-52490969187203402772008-05-17T16:57:00.000-07:002009-05-09T10:13:13.272-07:00Pursuit's 18 Hours of Smoke: 6:30pm Update<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjs204-z518jqx66FR60II4AdE_WP7hHG2q0N-S7rJCcIgZot6tdhpPxqUvtpF-Im2vgCuMVyLG1Iwhu3z9274DSENiSC_PvGQRmHh7f935ieZWTF4M6ko9qzxo3t1oCvWjs6Bg3LcldA/s1600-h/100_1684.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjs204-z518jqx66FR60II4AdE_WP7hHG2q0N-S7rJCcIgZot6tdhpPxqUvtpF-Im2vgCuMVyLG1Iwhu3z9274DSENiSC_PvGQRmHh7f935ieZWTF4M6ko9qzxo3t1oCvWjs6Bg3LcldA/s320/100_1684.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201500677256416466" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYo_mylsMB20_tiUw-u4k_8GmtrdZY5qppDr4GOpgk8IfU5IoOE_YVJPbzqjvnt5mkkok_a_unASrR7Dw0zSE01kTuS66fp6FVgJk90MU9d5YIuqJhpxMN8Z6YVQnW_H41w-taBEwicaQ/s1600-h/100_1685.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYo_mylsMB20_tiUw-u4k_8GmtrdZY5qppDr4GOpgk8IfU5IoOE_YVJPbzqjvnt5mkkok_a_unASrR7Dw0zSE01kTuS66fp6FVgJk90MU9d5YIuqJhpxMN8Z6YVQnW_H41w-taBEwicaQ/s320/100_1685.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201500685846351074" /></a><br />'nuff saidPursuithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00895768243425149909noreply@blogger.com0