the essence

Apparently I relax by making yummy things.

Megan blogged about some French Bread she made last week. I've had a recipe for French Bread for 7 years but I've never made it but, for whatever reason, I was inspired to make Megan's recipe today. Oh. My. Mouthwatering.

After the first rise - it buried the mixer!





Delicious plain but also excellent for faux Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. (Faux because I like peppers and think American "cheese" & Cheez Whiz are yuck!) Once you've put everything on the bread wrap it in aluminum foil for about 5 minutes...it makes the sandwich that much better!



I was also, very suddenly, struck with the notion to make homemade Kahlua. I think it turned out fabulous (from what I can tell) but I'm anxious to get a real taste of it! I only made a quarter of the recipe. However, I forgot to cut down the simmering time & as the concoction cooled I ended up with a lump of coffee sugar. So, it was back to the stove with some added water.

After the first bit of simmering, before my mistake was realized



This bottle held red wine vinegar just a few weeks ago. And Ray scoffs at me for keeping empty bottles around...



I also did something extremely trendy and painted my toe nails this rather garish yet slightly addicting neon orange. (Notice all of the mistakes? I suppose that's what I get for painting my nails in a dark room while trying to watch tv...)



Neon is so in style now but I usually try to stick to things that are a little more "classic" stylish rather than overly "trendy" stylish. So, this is about as into this fad as I'll get.

I must admit it is rather fun.