Oak&Toile

We had an enjoyable weekend. Strange weather, though, warm and humid? Weird. Not complaining though. Had a good conversations with husband. Part of the 'newlywed' stage, for us, is getting used to being around each other 24/7. Sometimes, you do just need some time Allll to yourself. I know I'm pretty darn selfish about "me" time, even if its a few minutes a day. And sometimes, that requires me to even just take a walk by myself. I think we've both been slack on our me time and it shows. My mom was always working, taking care of us, being a wife - I mean, not untypical of most women! But, she always made time for herself - even if it was running to the mall to get a haircut or new make-up, she did it. I think that is one of the best things she has taught me.

Anyway! I started off Saturday morning with the itch to get outside by myself. I grabbed my Ipod with Kanye West's lastest cd and set out. I've wanted to get back into running and really working out. I think I'm going to keep up with the "Couch to 5K" program. It is basically interval running and helps people get into running. I did it Saturday morning and it felt incredible to work it out (although I was sore as crap today). And while I worked out like crazy this summer - it was mostly in vain (for my wedding, I mean what bride doesn't want to look better?!). But now, I really just want to get into shape for health's sake and you know what, it is really satisfying! That's my goal for now. We're also trying to kick up the healthy eating more. That being said, though...we had some good food this weekend.

We had some friends over for pizza and appetizers Sat. night and had a great time. We (I) indulged in too much wine but it was a good time to relax with our friends. I made a Christmas jazz cd and served a super easy dip I saw on Rachael Ray. (By the way, she was getting too hyper for my taste but I think her most recent shows have calmed down).

It was 4 ingredients:
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup green olives
Grate the garlic clove, throw it and everything else in the food processor, pulse until creamy and serve! I only made it because I thought - that's too easy. It was and it was also a crowd pleaser. And I used low-fat cream cheese, served with veggies and Wheat Thins. It was eaten up quickly! I know I'll be making it again.

Things I'm enjoying right now:
I read this Jhumpa Lahiri novel last year and loved it. We finally watched the movie, The Namesake, this weekend. Like any novel to movie, there was a lot left out but I thought it was well-done. I really loved this book. She is also known for her short stories, Interpreter of Maladies.


These heat and serve rice noodle bowls are my latest lunch habit. Cheap, low in calories and flavorful - not just salty. Yum!


Finally, The Blissful Belle posted about this website, The Dairi Burger who gives Snarky reviews to teen lit series like Sweet Valley High. Thank you because I was hysterical for at least an hour this afternoon. I read probably alllll of SVH series. Her comments on the characters and their clothes? Hilarious. Brought back memories and caused me to chuckle so hard my husband made me read it out loud to him because I wouldn't quit.

Busy week ahead - good luck to you all as the holidays get closer!