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11. Seared Foie Gras served with a lemon popover, lemon cream, blackberries and micro-greens: the biggest piece of foie I have ever seen on a plate. Perfectly seared on the outside, leaving the interior unctuous and creamy. The lemon popover was a great compliment to the richness of the foie. A piece of candied lemon slice and the blackberries added a sweet aspect that finished the plate on a high note. big plate: warm appetizer
12. Morello Cherry and Grapefruit sorbets. No need to tell you all that Si had the grapefruit and I had the cherry. I don't do grapefruit.
13. Kobe with creme fraiche potatoes, sherried button mushrooms, romanesco broccoli and demi glace. Perfectly cooked little cubes of Black beef from about 60 miles outside of Kobe. Good. But I am still not sold on Kobe. It's beef…it's good…don't know why it's so expensive. I've had better American grass feed beef here. My opinion. I'm sure other's prefer Kobe. The potatoes were my Achilles heel. Served in a small copper pot….warm, creamy, rich….I ate them all. Did not share with the husband. It's okay…he isn't crazy over whipped potatoes like me. Big plate: meat course.
14. A lemon puff of air. I know what you are thinking…lemon air? Yep. CB has really taken to using the progressive culinary methods such as sous vide, liquid nitro, etc. This was fresh lemonade, that was foamed and then flash frozen with liquid nitrogen. You just put it on your tongue an then POOF!…gone…all you are left with was an immense lemon flavor. Great palate cleanser.
15. Root-beer meringue: a small dollop of meringue with a root-beer candy base. put onto the tongue, it dissolved and left you with the essence of root-beer…then turned into pop rocks in your mouth.
16: Black Truffle Fondue served with popcorn, brioche toast points, celery, potatoes, and dried fruit. Need I say more. We will attempt to recreate this at our next dinner party. You can make a meal out of it. Again….fabulous twist on a cheese course.
17: Mini lollipops, hand made: bubble gum and sesame banana flavor.
18: Fresh berries with zabaglione. Sounds plain…it wasn't. They placed mound of tender berries in a large white bowl, and poured the zabaglione over…then they followed with liquid nitrogen (table-side) and what you had left was a quasi berry ice cream. Topped with fresh roasted cashews (they were still warm). It was an amazing desert.
19. Raspberry chew, chocolate fudge cake and white chocolate with peanuts and cinnamon. One bite of each.
20. Strawberry numb: a spoon of red powder comes out. You place it on your tongue and it dissolves. You have a strong strawberry flavor left in your mouth…then…you feel something….all of a sudden it's like there is a electricity on your tongue..in a good way. Your entire mouth begins to tingle. Si didn't get it…but I did. it was like electricity on your tongue. so interesting. They mix the strawberry with the stamen of a West African flower and it's causes the sensation.
Then there were some other tastes that I forgot to write down. I know for one we had a pork rillette. So incredibly rich. We had just a small serving. It is on the a la care menu and comes in a hefty portion. I don't know how one could it that much of it.
By the end of our meal, the restaurant was empty. CB and the other chefs had taken to our enthusiasm and watched us eat. Lots of great discussion on new culinary methods, the use of chemistry in the kitchen, local products and how hard it is to open a restaurant at the age of 30. It really puts into perspective how hard Chef Craft of Niche has worked and how accomplished he is…and he's not even 3o yet!!
Kevin Binkley makes visiting my in-laws that much more fun. Knowing that when we visit, we can dine at his restaurant my entice us to travel to AZ more often. 😉
Just not in the summer. It's too darn hot.


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Everyone tells you this so many times throughout life. There is always something or someone reminding you to listen to that voice within--- as if you have all the answers to your questions and dilemmas right inside, if only you paid attention to it. If we know this, why do we still get lost on what's the right thing to do? Why do we need to seek counsel from friends, family, trusted advisors on how to make the right decisions for our lives? Is it the fear of it not working out the way we expect, that causes us to hesitate? Is it the unwanted consequences we know are soon to come if we choose to follow our heart? Is it the reactions from others that we will have to bare once the decision is made? Is it the fear that if we listen to what is inside, we won't actually get what we want? At one point or another, it's all of these things and more. The fear of messing up something that's okay or good but doesn't feel quite right, haunts us. Not knowing what the future holds, frightens us. Believing we can't have what we truly want, discourages us. For example, how do you know real love truly exists if you've never experienced it? You have heard it in songs, seen it in movies and nearly touched it in books, but you've never felt it. You've never even seen anyone else feel this thing called love. Lust, yes but love, never up close. You know love exists because you believe that it does. Ultimately, that alone is enough to hold onto the idea that true love is out there for you. This is the same kind of thinking that has people longing for a career doing something they love. Unfortunately, that is where most of our hopes and dreams stay-- in our thoughts, in our daydreams, in our mind, but not in our reality. That's a tough pill to swallow, but it is true. Majority of people take the most convenient route instead of the truest.
Majority of people accept whatever kind of job they can get instead of invest in their talents.
Majority of people find someone who looks good on paper, instead of waiting for someone who makes their heart sing. Majority of people find it hard listening to their heart but desire to hear it just as much.
There is no formula or remedy to following your heart. As I said in the beginning, we all have the answers that lead us to our truest desires. The only question is are we willing to do it?

subset: commoncrawl


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In my last post, I went over how to jazz up some common design trends and make them unique to your brand. I'm diving back into today with some common design trends that I see ALL OVER Pinterest. Especially for wedding pros and boss ladies, these trends are HOT. But I'll show you how to make them distinctive so that you and your brand stand out.Read More
I'm starting a new blog series called "Branding for...". In these posts, I will highlight a creative industry and zero in on some key how-to's for:
• Communicating your mission
• Translating your passion into a unique brand identity
• Inspiring your dream clients to work with you
• Creating a winning website
• Finding the "joy" job (you know, the client and project that ignites your passion!)
Let's dive in, shall we?!Read More


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Location of TEXAS in USA :
Texas is the second-largest U.S. state by both area and population, and the largest state in the contiguous United States. The name, meaning "friends" or "allies" in Caddo, was applied by the Spanish to the Caddo themselves and to the region of their settlement in East Texas. Located in the South Central United States, Texas is bordered by Mexico to the south, New Mexico to the west, Oklahoma to the north, Arkansas to the northeast, and Louisiana to the east.
Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest in the United States.
Texas is nicknamed the Lone Star State to signify Texas as an independent republic and as a reminder of the state's struggle for independence from Mexico. The "Lone Star" can be found on the Texas State Flag and on the Texas State Seal today.
Due to its size and geologic features such as the Balcones Fault, Texas contains diverse landscapes that resemble both the American South and Southwest. Although Texas is popularly associated with the Southwestern deserts, less than 10% of the land area is desert. Most of the population centers are located in areas of former prairies, grasslands, forests, and the coastline. Traveling from east to west, one can observe terrain that ranges from coastal swamps and piney woods, to rolling plains and rugged hills, and finally the desert and mountains of the Big Bend.
The term "six flags over Texas" came from the several nations that had ruled over the territory. Spain was the first European country to claim the area of Texas. France held a short-lived colony in Texas. Mexico controlled the territory until 1836 when Texas won its independence, becoming an independent Republic. In 1845 it joined the United States as the 28th state. The state's annexation set off a chain of events that caused the Mexican–American War in 1846. A slave state, Texas declared its secession from the United States in early 1861, joining the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. After the war and its restoration to the Union, Texas entered a long period of economic stagnation.
One Texas industry that thrived after the Civil War was cattle. Due to its long history as a center of the industry, Texas is associated with the image of the cowboy. The state's economic fortunes changed in the early 1900s, when oil discoveries initiated an economic boom in the state. With strong investments in universities, Texas developed a diversified economy and high tech industry in the mid twentieth century. With a growing base of industry, the state leads in many industries, including agriculture, petrochemicals, energy, computers and electronics, aerospace, and biomedical sciences.
Postcard sent by Steven, as "RockChalker"
Postcrossing - Reference US-794672
It is one of the most recognized nicknames of any state.
It comes from the symbolism of the star on the 1836 flag of the Républic


text: Before you buy HR software, you should understand that your organization isn�t like everyone else�s. It�s doubtful that a general one-size-fits-all solution or what you might see in a brief demo will actually fit your needs. Besides, how can you develop a competitive advantage if you�re using the software the same way as everyone else?To avoid being duped by pretty demos of software with no substance and find a partner that can meet the hidden complexities that exist in your unique processes, you need to ask the right questions. Download to learn more!


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Hot dogs
Summer ends, financial systems collapse: Is there a better time to eat hot dogs? Here are five fine ones:
1. The Chili Man's, uptown. A big side of attitude accompanies a grilled dog with Vic Werany's own-recipe chili and condiments. He's only there – at South Tryon and East Fourth streets – Wednesdays and Fridays, though.
2. Mooresville's Big League and Poppa's. Two fine spots within a few miles of each other. Do not miss the terrific sweet potato fries or the "Two Dog Nights" at Big League (Monday and Tuesday, 4 to 8 p.m., you can get two-for-one dogs). Poppa's has more of a rock 'n' roll vibe and quick service that rocks, too. Big League: 235 Medical Park Road, Mooresville. Poppa's: 510 River Highway.
3. Matt's Chicago Dog in Cornelius and uptown. These have a nice pop, and although you don't have to get them Chicago-style – that's with relish, onions, tomatoes, yellow mustard, kosher pickle, sport peppers and celery salt – you owe it to yourself to try. 19732 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius; and 435 S. Tryon St.
4. Green's Lunch uptown. Call me a sucker for history, but you can't beat grabbing a dog at the counter amid a courthouse-savvy crowd and photos of the city as it was. 309 W. 4th St.
5. Katz New York at the Arboretum Office Park (across Providence from the shopping center). This deli offers my favorite dog of all, simple and beautiful, with a bursting quality and great slaw on the side. 8045 Providence Road.


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Kings & Prophets 5 - Workbook (NASB) - 2 Lessons
Kings & Prophets 5 - Workbook (NASB) - 2 Lessons
Where Are You Going?
Have you ever tried to run away from God? Can a mere man hide from the presence of an all -knowing, all -powerful God? God used a reluctant prophet to tell an evil city of His compassion for them. When God calls you to deliver a message to someone you don't love, will you run, or get angry, or comply? Would it take a great calamity, an earthquake, or flood for God to get your attention?
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November 28, 2018
S2 Episode 22: Gross, Subtle, Causal
The three natural states are described metaphorically in Hinduism as waking, dreaming and deep sleep. But what is the practical value of becoming familiar with these states, even proficient? One possible answer that Thomas suggests is Freedom and Love. Join this guided tour and see for yourself.
Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | RSS


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House Republicans Criticize Obama Timeline
Mr. Obama announced last night that he would begin removing troops from Afghanistan in July of 2011. That's a move that Republicans say will make the surge less effective.
"It never makes sense to tell the enemy when your commitment to fight will run out," said House GOP Conference Chairman Mike Pence (R-IN), at left, after members met this morning to discuss the president's new strategy.
Republicans also questioned the president's true commitment to winning the war and criticized his speech last night for not focusing enough on commitment to success.
"Republicans want to know, is the president serious about fulfilling this mission?" said Rep. Howard "Buck" McKeon (R-CA), the top Republican on the House Armed Services Committee.
Republicans would not say, however, that they would vote against any bill to fund the new strategy. House Minority leader John Boehner said he wants answers to numerous questions, like how the exit date would work and what can be accomplished over the next year and a half, before Republicans can support the president's plan.
The other sticking point for the House GOP? Democratic proposals to pay for the increase in troops with a war tax. "House Republicans are adamantly opposed, especially during this difficult economy, to passing a tax increase on the backs of our soldiers," Pence said.
Another option for paying for the Afghanistan surge, which Republicans actively support at this time, is using unspent stimulus funds to offset the cost.
Republicans say they will listen carefully to the Capitol Hill testimony of Defense Secretary Robert Gates this week and General Stanley McChrystal next for the answers to their many questions about the new policy.


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This article is a filled-out version of a Digging Deep column in the Richmond News, and it includes some time-saving links. It is further filled out by several related articles you can reach on this blog.
The City of Richmond project to enhance the Garden City Lands is gaining momentum, so it's time for a shared challenge. Let's bring the Lands, our central park, to the top echelon of the world's parks.
The community has always wanted to help steward the Lands with ALR values for agriculture, ecological conservation and open-land park recreation for community wellness. The land has stayed ready too, although the central dike-trail that's been started is well-positioned in the north half and poorly positioned in the south half.
In this window of opportunity, what will it take to salvage success?
- Focus on the goal of an ALR central park that celebrates the ALR.
- Ensure full benefit from the Garden City Conservation Society, with its insight and commitment. It exists to help like this.
- Ensure accessibility. Design the infrastructure—such as dike-road trails—for wheelchairs, mobility walkers and strollers.
- Ensure ample capacity. That means, for example, wide-enough trails for the highest anticipated use, looking far ahead. It might also mean a long and narrow parking area on the Lands beside No. 4 Road.
- Be radically inclusive. Take the perspectives of people living with poverty, social anxiety, security concerns when near woods, need for nearby washrooms, etc. (Helpful action will tend to benefit all users.)
- Encourage all sorts of agriculture. For example, permaculturists might love to use hügelkultur to make a hard-to-irrigate part bounteous. Also, foresee how much land will be needed for community gardens in the future (ten hectares?), and ensure that interim uses will improve the soil.
- Use dike-road trails around the restorable sphagnum bog on the east side to enable bog-specific steps. Save the southwest fen, a distinct and thriving ecosystem with native pollinators. Also consider a bird-oriented feature like the Terra Nova Natural Area.
- Act promptly toward a range of bog restoration methods, including those of Canadian peat moss associations and the Camosun Bog Restoration Group.
- On the north edge, re-establish a mixed urban forest by transplanting trees that would be lost with demolitions. Also honour the perseverance of the Lands' pioneer trees—the truncated shore pines and crabapple trees.
- Protect the green viewscapes and salvage the lost ones. (A viewscape takes in everything from a viewing point all the way to distant features such as mountains.) As it is now, people get angry when they look north across Alderbridge at the destruction by construction.
- Make the Lands an exemplary hub in Richmond's Ecological Network Management Strategy, an outstanding plan to put into action.
- Live up to our role as a model for the world. (IESCO, a UN affiliate, selected us as an International Eco-Safety Demonstrative City in 2010.)
Readers, this will be the heart of my feedback at Let's Talk Richmond. Download the current Garden City Lands PDF there and see pages 4 and 11. Maybe google my "Natural resources versus waste" blog for insights. Beat the feedback deadline, June 12.


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