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For the past three years I have participated in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) in November, and this year will be no exception. It's a great way to try to jumpstart the creative process, and get into good, regular writing habits. But like any good thing, there is another side to it too.
In the past, the pressure to put out words has affected the quality of words I put out. I noticed it my first year doing this, and that helped me try to combat it in my second. And I did with a little success, but only after I eased up on the rules. Instead of working on a single novel I allowed myself to work on a series, because at the time I was working on a collection of novels, which was more or less one big story told over different novels (think Harry Potter, only the content was nothing like Harry Potter).
The third year, I was better still but I had eased up on the rules even further. My new rule was that I could work on any manuscript, as long as it was longform. So it could be a memoir, a novel, basically anything that spoke to me. I know you aren't supposed to write more than one book at a time, but I am terrible with this – call it commitment issues.
This year, I think I'm going to keep the rules where I set them last year. I am somewhat tempted to count any creative writing that is up for publication because I write personal essays for publication that are usually around 3,000 words each, but I don't think I'm going to do that because I see November as a time to really try to finish a manuscript – and I'm not putting together a book of essays, so they shouldn't count.
I have had such a major dry spell this year, I'm excited and really hopeful that this year's NaNoWriMo will get me going (and that I'll actually hit the goal this year, without sacrificing quality).
Any writer or person who feels they are not a writer but have a story they want to share, literary dabblers and avid readers – November is the month to try. 50,000 words by the end of the month. You'd be surprised what you come up with when you're in the habit of writing each and every day. I encourage everyone to give it a shot, but make their own rules. Do what works best for you instead of the traditional idea (unless that is what works for you). Quality over quantity – always. 😉


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Details » Our Insane Lives
- Url: http://sarahandtokyo.informe.com/
- Category: Art & Literature
- Description: Where to collect all our thoughts
- Members: 108
- Created On: Jan 27, 2011
- Posts: 184
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User Comments:
1. | Jun 28, 2014
By jim brady March 28, 2011 - 8:19 amFred is correct that I erred omititng Bergman's Trout, I still enjoy Ray's writing. He reminds me that the fish don't change, it's the fisherman and whatever technique presently in vogue that change.I am not familiar with Montgomery's Many Rivers to Cross, its sounds interesting and appeals to my love of the West. Thanks, Lee.Leslye's contributions are also unknown to me, I will put them on my list to seek out.As regards Schwiebert's large body of work, I greatly prefer his stories to the technical stuff, while admitting I have put it to good practical use. If anyone has actually caught a fish on his Iron nymph, from Matching the Hatch, please chime in. I never did.
2. | May 17, 2014
Interesting topic even more interesting is oberivsng the reactions some teens have when it comes to child birth. At this age(teens), having a child should be the last thing on our minds, first before anything should be our education. I see teenage mothers/fathers or mothers/fathers-soon-to-be all the time walking the halls of VHS and I pity them. Either they purposely wanted a child for some bizarre reason or they made some bad choices when it came to contraception. Those are 2 types of teenage pregnancies, now here are the 2 types of teenage parent: either a ghettolicious hot mama and papa whom after high believe to live(mooch) off their parents and/or grandparents until the day they die or decide to contribute to society. Teen Parent number 2 is: the hopeful, ambitious, and smart student who dreams of doing something his/her life and yet one day decided to experiment with sex and ignorantly f%$^ed their lives up. In conclusion, if you are dumb enough to make such a decision such as unsafe sex then you don't need a parental chat you need a reality check, loser. ;]PS; thank you Beth for such a good topic.
3. | Jan 10, 2014
Hi thereTook my ICND2 today and scored 917. I Used CBTnuggets Wendel Odem exam guide 2nd ed. Then this weeeknd spent time with p4s 2.77It works. Thanks. But here is a tip for real life people Do the work first with Your Videos and Books then finish it off with p4s.Thanks againRegardsCisco
4. | Jan 9, 2014
Well..according to Mr. dude, the icnd2 Actualtests and Testking are not updated, even if they cheagnd their date of update. That means they are trying to fool the buyers, which the dump companies often do to increase their sales.P4S is also not updated for icnd2 exam. You can check their website. I think they've gone to sleep mode after july31st.The only one dump left is testinside and i don't think they are updated too. In fact all dump makers are pretty much dead nowadays. They all are copying each other...
5. | Dec 9, 2013
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6. | Dec 4, 2013
Hey, Adam, don't you think the freshwater angrles of SJ would be better served by the State eliminating the trout stocking and focusing instead on enhancing the habitat and numbers of those species more natural to the region, like bass, crappie, and pickeral? Trout (and trout stamps) don't fit in slow-moving, warmer blackwater, except that the State can make a few extra bucks by convincing spring and fall Saturday angrles that they're really fishing with fly-rods and nymphs in the fast moving streamwaters of upstate New York.
7. | Dec 4, 2013
InnaFarrington:*girl*:Aleksander also not only the most charming,also he is the less-conflictю*Aleksander*:Many artitss make complainings that everything is not in the way they ordered.But in such a big show singers should adapt,not the organizers.For example we ordered a bright day' ,and they made a beutiful night [lightening].
8. | Nov 10, 2012
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9. | Nov 7, 2012
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subset: commoncrawl


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Super Junior (Korean: 슈퍼주니어; Syupeo Junieo) is a popular South Korean idol group. Formed in 2005 by producer Lee Soo-man of SM Entertainment, the group comprised a total of thirteen members at its peak. Super Junior originally debuted with twelve members, consisting of leader Leeteuk, Heechul, Han Geng, Yesung, Kangin, Shindong, Sungmin, Eunhyuk, Siwon, Donghae, Ryeowook and Kibum. Kyuhyun joined the group in 2006.
Know as "Kings of the Hallyu Wave", Super Junior launched into international recognition following the release of their best-selling single "Sorry, Sorry" in 2009, the title song of their most critically successful album Sorry, Sorry and was the best-selling K-pop artist for three years in a row.
Over the years, they have been divided into smaller subgroups, simultaneously targeting different music industries and audiences. Largely due to Super Junior's success as entertainers, other Korean entertainment managements began to train their music groups in other areas of entertainment, such as acting and hosting.In addition to their commercial success, Super Junior has earned fourteen music awards from the Mnet Asian Music Awards, thirteen from the Golden Disk Awards, and is the second singing group to win Favorite Artist Korea at the 2008 MTV Asia Awards after JTL in 2003.In 2012 they were nominated for "Best Asian Act" in MTV Europe Music Awards showing one more time their popularity around world.
In December 2009, Hankyung departed from the group after filing a lawsuit against their agency SM Entertainment.Hankyung subsequently won the lawsuit in December 2010,though his departure from Super Junior was not made official until September 27, 2011, when S.M. Entertainment finally released a statement to that effect.Heechul enlisted for his mandatory military service on September 1, 2011. Kangin was absent from the group for their fourth and fifth album promotions, but completed his service in April 2012, and rejoined the group for their sixth album in mid 2012, however, the absent three members are considered as part of the group regardless. Leeteuk enlisted for his mandatory military service on October 30, 2012. As of 2012, Super Junior has nine active members: Yesung, Kangin, Shindong, Sungmin, Eunhyuk, Siwon, Donghae, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun.


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Kawhi Leonard's Return – A Gift Like No Other
December 13, 2017
The sheriff is healed and ready for his return. The long anticipated return of Spurs superstar Kawhi Leonard will come to a conclusion tomorrow, December 12th, when the Spurs take on their rival, the Dallas Mavericks. Kawhi Lenord has not played once this entire NBA season due to a quad injury he suffered in the offseason. This injury was completely unknown to the public and in typical Spurs fashion, the Spurs didn't disclose any information on the injury. This left reporters, fans, and the entire NBA waiting anxiously to know when Kahwi Leonard would return from his injury. Even though their best player has been out the whole season, this has not slowed down the San Antonio Spurs from starting the season blazing hot. Currently, the Spurs have an impressive record of 19-8 which is good enough for 3rd in the Western Conference. In order to achieve this great start to the season, the Spurs have enjoyed the re-emergence of vintage LaMarcus Aldridge, who has averaged 22.7 points per game along with 8.1 rebounds per game, and marquee offseason acquisition Rudy Gay, who has averaged 12.4 points per game. Even though the Spurs have managed to do extremely well without their superstar, the return of Kahwi Leonard is definitely an early Christmas present for the San Antonio Spurs.


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Roy Keane was talking out of his backside this week.
The former Manchester United midfielder turned rent-a-quote pundit believes if Liverpool secure Champions League qualification the achievement should be greeted with a collective shrug of the shoulders at Anfield.
"When I see clubs like Liverpool and Man United celebrating getting into the top four, I cringe at it, I really do," he said.
"Do you think that Real Madrid and Barcelona would be celebrating getting fourth? Come on, get a grip."
Keane clearly hasn't been paying attention because if he had he would know that a top-four finish this season would be a big deal for Liverpool on many different levels.
Since the Reds narrowly missed out of the Premier League title in 2008/09 they have ended up seventh, sixth, eighth, seventh, second, sixth and eighth. Just once in the space of seven seasons have Liverpool finished higher than sixth with fans having to put up with far too much mediocrity.
The only Champions League campaign since Rafa Benitez's reign came in 2014/15 when a sense of joy quickly turned to despair at the sight of Brendan Rodgers fielding a weakened team at the Bernabeu en route to the Reds failing to progress from an average group.
The five-times champions of Europe returning to the top table would be something to raise a glass to. A proud tradition will have been restored with Kopites dusting off their passports and plotting trips to the continent's footballing cathedrals.
Proper European nights would be back under the lights at Anfield. It's been far too long since that anthem echoed around L4.
As well as the prestige, there's the huge financial benefits of competing at that elite level. Champions League football would bring an expected £60million windfall.
Being in or out of the competition will have major implications for the club's summer transfer plans - both in terms of the money available to Jurgen Klopp and the calibre of player he will be able to attract.
Try telling Klopp that a top-four finish doesn't merit a flurry of fist pumps in front of the Kop.
If Liverpool hold their nerve over the coming weeks it would be the realisation of the target the club set before a ball was kicked back in August.
It was the owners' lack of faith in Rodgers' ability to deliver a Champions League spot which prompted the managerial change 19 months ago. For Klopp to achieve it in his first full season would be all the more commendable considering what he's been up against.
Just look at the table. With three games to go, Liverpool are third - looking down on Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.
Pep Guardiola spent £180million following his arrival at City last summer with Jose Mourinho not far behind with a £160m spree. Arsene Wenger's £96m outlay was supposed to ensure Arsenal made the leap from top-four regulars to title contenders.
Yet they have all been outshone by Klopp - a manager with considerably less depth to his squad who has had to cope without key men such as Sadio Mane, Jordan Henderson, Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho for crucial periods.
Liverpool's swagger of autumn may have long since disappeared but in the face of adversity Klopp has found a way to keep their challenge alive.
Is simply being back in the Champions League the height of the club's ambition? Of course not. Klopp wants glory, he wants silverware.
But a top-four finish would be an important stepping stone to making that a reality. And no matter what Keane says, it really would be worth celebrating.


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Data 101 Series: Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Data Tracking and Goal Setting
Recorded On: 12/13/2017
Session Description
One of the most complex pages to our awards program is the Climate page. Many health systems do not yet understand how to utilize tools such as ENERGY STAR Portfolio manager to track their Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and only 22% of award applicants reported doing a GHG audit as part of a baseline process.
Join us to learn more about how to start tracking GHG emissions to create a baseline and available resources to help do your work. Daniel Kreeger, the Executive Director with the Association of Climate Change Officers, will share how other sectors have tackled this, and then Lauren Koch will review the different scopes, how to find the necessary data, and share examples of how other health systems have set goals toward GHG reduction.
Learning Objectives
- Educate Practice Greenhealth membership on how to fill out the GHG table on the award application.
- Learn about existing resources to help you track this complex data set.
- Learn why reducing GHGs are important to meeting the mission of health, and how to sell that to your leadership.
Standard Fee: $79
Practice Greenhealth Member: Free
Practice Greenhealth Subscriber: Free
Lauren Koch, MENR (Moderator)
Health Care Without Harm Climate and Health associate director
Lauren Koch, MA, MENR, holds a dual masters in environment and natural resources/public policy and administration from Ohio State University and is the associate director for Health Care Without Harm's Climate and Health program with a focus on mitigation and resilience initiatives.
Daniel Kreeger
Executive Director, Association of Climate Change Officers
- Standard Fee - $79
- Practice Greenhealth Member - Free!
- Practice Greenhealth Subscriber - Free!


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Tribuna to present American Dream Awards
DANBURY — A professional fighter, a local businessman and a doctor treating the sick worldwide are among the recipients of this year's American Dream Awards given out by the Tribuna Newspaper.
Beginning in 2014, the Danbury newspaper, published in English, Spanish and Portuguese, started recognizing immigrants or children of immigrants for their hard work and the struggles they faced in achieving their American Dreams.
This year, five awards of $2,000 each will be presented at a gala on May 14. Those winners, chosen from 54 applications, will be announced at the gala.
"All honorees either embody, celebrate, or support key elements of the lives of immigrants in our communities: Hard work, perseverance, pride, civic engagement, and a deep connection to those in peril in other nations," Tribuna publisher Celia Bacelar Palmares said in a statement.
Palmares, a Brazilian-American, migrated to the United States over two decades ago, working as a house cleaner before becoming the founder and publisher of Tribuna.
In addition to the five cash awards, the Tribuna has also chosen Anthony Rizzo, founder of Rizzo Electric, one of the largest electrical contracting firms in Connecticut, as this year's recipient for the American Dream Lifetime Achievement Award.
Four American Dream Leadership Awards will also be presented to:
Glover Teixeira, a Brazilian native, Danbury resident and UFC fighter, for his work in and out of the octagon and his inspirational personal story, which took him from landscaper to professional athlete.
The City of Danbury, for the creation of the Heritage Plaza, celebrating Danbury's history and cultural diversity.
The Hispanic Federation, for its work in fostering a non-partisan dialogue around crucial issues affecting the Latino community in Connecticut.
Dr. Majid Sadigh, the director of the global health program at the Western Connecticut Health Network, for his work in Liberia as part of a team of healthcare providers working to fight the Ebola virus.
"The American Dream Awards are important to remind ourselves of all that we have in common, whether you came from Italy like Mr. Rizzo, or from Brazil like Glover. we all share the same love and respect for a country that has embraced us and provided opportunities to us that would not have been possible elsewhere in the world," Palmares said in her statement.
The gala, which will be decorated in red, white and blue in honor of Memorial Day, will start at 6 p.m. at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. To date, $46,000 has been given in scholarships, awards and donations to the community through the event.
Tickets are $85 per person and include cocktail hour, three-course dinner, soft drinks and coffee service, along with the awards ceremony and live music. For alcoholic beverages, cash bars will be available. Ticket sale proceeds will benefit the Western Connecticut Health Network Foundation.
For tickets visit www.tribunaamericandreamawards.com. For more information, call (203) 730-0457.


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Fish of the month
Cuttlefish and Chorizo Stew
Cuttlefish taste like a cross between octopus and squid: They are fuller flavored than calamari, but not nearly as rich as their rivals the octopi.
1 large Cuttlefish
200g Chorizo
1 Red Pepper cut into 2cm dice
1 Red Pepper
1 Onion chopped
2 teaspoons Tomato Puree
3 Plum Tomatoes deseeded and chopped
2 Cloves of Garlic chopped
1 250ml Passata
150ml White Wine
250ml Fish Stock
Olive oil
Half tsp Chopped Flat Leaf Parsley
Sweat off Onions, Garlic and Chorizo in Olive oil until onions are soft then add Cuttlefish cook for 8 min, add white wine and cook for a further 5 min reducing the wine. Now add diced peppers and Tomato puree, cook for a further 5 min. Add Passata and bring to boil then simmer for another 20 to 30min or until Cuttlefish is tender. 9) If sauce is a little thick add a little fish stock and to finish add diced tomato and some chopped flat leaf parsley, season and enjoy.


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The future of search is Voice. We use Amazon Alexa and Google Home to help your business grow.
Everyone needs a podcast. Move Sounds Uses audio to get in front of a new audience.
Move builds social advertising campaigns with real cut-through, helping you achieve your business goals.
The last four or five years have seen things like podcasting and smart speakers go from be...
We are living in very testing times. The corona virus means that most of us are being forc...
You might feel like voice is everywhere these days. Let me assure you, it's not just yet...
Case Study : Cambridge Audio
Our Search campaign resulted in tens of thousands of video views
Case Study : King's College London
Using social advertising, we increased the number of applicants by 65%


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Safer London are looking for dynamic, experienced, innovative, practitioners and managers to be part of the solution in addressing gang and youth violence in London.
If you think you're up to the challenge of empowering young people to make positive and sustainable changes in their lives our LGE service needs to hear from you.
"Safer London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment."
Support Worker – Youth Violence
The support worker role is to provide transformational and trauma based support to young people aged 16 – 25 involved, affected or exploited by gangs across London. The role will be expected to work well with others and demonstrate clear and effective communication with stakeholders, partners and service users. Experience of working in multi-agency setting and experienced at delivering person – centered and trauma based support is a core component to the skills required for this role.
To learn more about the role and apply please complete the application form and send [email protected]
Closing date – midnight, Sunday 4th November 2018
Interview dates – W/c 12th November 2108
Please note this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised as and when suitable candidates are recruited.
Previous applicants need not apply.


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Category Archives: East Indian/Thai
Butternut Squash Coconut Curry
Imagine my surprise at finding more butternut squash at our Favourite supermarket, Superama, here in Mexico. It is highly unusual, so much so that I bought all seven of them! They were hidden among the pumpkins which had just arrived. Those of you who live in northern climates will easily find these everywhere this time of year. Pinterest to the rescue with this recipe…
Butternut Squash Coconut Curry
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled, deseed and diced
- 1-2 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 14-ounce can coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth, or 1 vegetable bouillon plus 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper, optional
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan on medium-high. Add onion, garlic and ginger.
2. Cook until onion is soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, paprika and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in squash, coconut milk, vegetable broth.
5. Bring to boil, Cover and reduce to a simmer on low heat.
6. Cook for 15 minutes until squash cubes are tender but not mushy
7. Stir in pepper, salt and cilantro.
Delicious served with rice.
Canadian Thanksgiving, Eh?
Since there might be a few new followers, I am noting a few of the recipes on the site which you might want to incorporate into your Canadian OR American Thanksgiving dinners. Hoping you might find some ideas before you head out to buy groceries…LOL
Look for these and other recipes in the GO box –
Good Eats Roasted Turkey or
Spice Rubbed Turkey or
Slow Cooker Rosemary Garlic Crusted Roast Beef (for those who are not into turkey)
Thai Style Chicken and Pumpkin Soup
Fragrant Fall Red Cabbage (side dish)
Pumpkin Crunch Cake (much better than pie!)
Happy Thanksgiving my friends!!
15 Minute Thai Basil Chicken
When life gives you lemons…oops…a great Thai basil plant, one makes more Thai food, right? This 15 minute recipe was incredible. You do not have to use Thai basil, but the taste will be a little different. In place of the Thai chilies, I used a few drops of Sriracha sauce.
Prep Time: 6 mins Cook Time: 9 mins Yield: 4 servings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 8 ounces green beans
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, coarsely chopped
- 4 sliced shallots
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 minced Thai chilies, or to taste
- 1 cup very thinly sliced fresh Thai basil leaves
- Jasmine rice, to serve
Heat the oil in a wok or heavy, high-walled skillet over high heat. As the wok is heating up, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar until well-combined. Set aside.
Add the bell pepper and green beans to the hot wok. Stir-fry for one minute. Add in the chicken and stir-fry, breaking apart as you go, until beginning to brown, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the shallots, garlic, and Thai chilies. Cook until fragrant, about 1 more minute. Then, pour in the prepared sauce. Continue to cook until the sauce begins to glaze onto the meat, about 1-2 more minutes.
Stir in the Thai basil leaves and cook until the chicken is completely cooked through, the basil is wilted, and the liquid has mostly evaporated. Serve warm with rice.
Red Thai Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
We likely all grew up with cauliflower smothered with Velveeta cheese. I was never quite sure that I didn't like the cheese best? As my taste buds have matured I was willing to give roasted cauliflower a chance. I also like Thai foods. Grand slam for this recipe. You can certainly adjust the amount of Thai red curry paste you like, but as is the recipe is not all that hot. Give it a try and stop looking at that whole cauliflower and thinking CHEESE!
Red Thai Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
- 1 whole cauliflower head
- 1 Tbsp red curry paste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (plus a little extra to coat pan and for little pieces)
- salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees F
- Remove the leaves of the cauliflower and then wash
- Place the whole cauliflower head on a cutting board, with the stalk of the cauliflower facing up; then slice with a large, sharp knife into about 1 1/2″ thick slice, aiming to get 4, but if it's a small head, you'll get about 3. It isn't a perfect science. Expect small pieces to break off (save these).
- Coat the bottom of a large cast iron skillet or sheet pan with a little olive oil
- Place your "steaks" on the pan
- Mix together the red curry paste, olive oil and a little salt and pepper (based on your preferences – I go heavier on the pepper and wait until I taste later to add salt).
- Coat the cauliflower steaks on the side facing up (only) with the red Thai curry/oil mixture and then pop into the oven for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, take the smaller pieces and put them into the bowl, add a drizzle of olive oil and a little salt and pepper.
- After the 20 minutes, ip the "steaks" and add the small pieces
- Roast for another 10-15 minutes or until soft in the middle and slightly charred. Enjoy!
Steamed Mussels in a Coconut Curry Broth
Its not too late to do your Nw Years Eve shopping is it? Your guests would love these coconut curry mussels with fresh baguettes for dipping into the sauce. If you need a veggie dish, go for the steamed broccoli…
- 2.5 pounds mussels (I prefer Prince Edward Island mussels)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 sweet onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk (lite version is fine too – just won't be as rich)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken (or seafood) stock
- 2 green onions, sliced
baguettes or bread for serving (or fries!)
Keep the mussels refrigerated until you're ready to use. Once ready, place them in a large bowl of ice cold water. Scrub the outsides of the mussels and remove the string (or "beard") by using a towel or paper towel to pull it out. Discard any mussels that have opened already. Keep the mussels in the ice water.
Better still, buy the frozen ones which are already cleaned..just add them in where required in the recipe.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil. Once it's melted, stir in the onions, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir and cook for 5 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the curry paste and continue to stir until it's distributed throughout the entire pan of onions. Cook for 5 more minutes. Stir in the coconut milk and stock, stirring until it's smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to medium low. Add the mussels and toss. Cover the skillet and cook just until the mussels open, about 5 to 6 minutes. Garnish with the sliced green onions. Stir the mussels well so the broth makes it into the shells. Serve immediately with baguettes or thin fries.
Green Mango Salad
Our neighbours introduced us to Green Papaya Salad, a favourite Thai salad with crisp vegetables. Alas, no green papayas to be found. Why not Green Mango Salad? The green refers to the unripeness, not the outside colour. Stefano Faita, one of my fav Canadian chefs and CBC personality had published this recipe…great colour! FYI…you could use firm nectarines in place of the mango.
As always, my changes are shown in red.
Green Mango Salad
2 large to 3 small green or under ripe mangoes, julienned
1 carrot, julienned (substitute 3 red radishes)
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 red pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup each mint leaves and Thai basil
1 tbsp. sweet spicy chili sauce
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. fish sauce, or to taste
3 tbsp. vegetable oil
Mint or Thai Basil, for garnish (optional)
Add green mangoes, carrot or radishes, red onion, red pepper, mint, Thai basil and chili sauce to bowl. Toss to combine.
Combine lime juice, sugar, and fish sauce and vegetable oil in small bowl. Stir to combine. Toss with salad. Taste and adjust seasoning to taste. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Spicy Shrimp Pho
First had this Vietnamese noodle soup in San Francisco, The portions they served were a little large, but awesome.
Spicy Shrimp Pho (http://chefsavvy.com/spicy-shrimp-pho/)
Prep time 10 mins Cook time 20 mins Total time 30 mins Serves: 4
- 4 ounces whole wheat thin spaghetti (I substituted rice noodles for a less heavy Pho)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon jalapeno, minced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, sliced thin
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 cup button mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 12 ounces large shrimp, uncooked
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- Cook spaghetti until al dente (or prepare rice noodles according to package)
- Meanwhile add oil to a large pot or dutch oven.
- Add garlic, jalapeno and green onions. Saute for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock, fish sauce and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in mushrooms and shrimp. Simmer until the mushrooms are tender and the shrimp is fully cooked.
- Take off of the heat and stir in pepper, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Divide the noodles among the 4 bowls and pour the soup on top.
- Garnish with extra lime wedges and cilantro if desired.
Thai Style Chicken Pumpkin Soup
Just in time for your Thanksgiving dinner! Make ahead and refrigerate. Serve as your first course!
Thai Style Chicken Pumpkin Soup
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 T. minced fresh ginger
- ½ to ¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 15 ounce can pumpkin
- ½ cup mango nectar
- ½ cup fresh lime juice
- ½ cup peanut butter (or more)
- 1 liter low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Heat oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook about three minutes, stirring frequently. Add onion, garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 to 2 minutes longer.
Transfer chicken to crock pot. Add celery, carrots, pumpkin, nectar, lime juice, peanut butter, broth and water. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours,
After the time is up, stir in the following –
3 Tablespoons rice vinegar
¼ cup chopped cilantro
Mix ½ cup heavy cream and 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch together.Stir into soup and turn cooker to HIGH for 10 minutes or less until soup thickens.
Serve over white rice which has been previously cooked. Sprinkle with more chopped cilantro and chopped peanuts.
Source – Crock-Pot Best Loved Slow Cooker Recipes.
Thai Salmon in Foil
Since I had already prepared my Thai Jicama Salad, I needed something to go with the salmon I had thawed. Pinterest to the rescue again!
Thai Salmon in Foil
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
The flavors are sealed right into a foil packet with no clean up! The salmon comes out so tender/juicy. Sure to be a family favorite!
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha, optional if you want more heat
- 2 pounds salmon
- 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
- To make the sauce, whisk together chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, fish sauce, ginger, lime juice and Sriracha in a small bowl; set aside.
- Place salmon onto prepared baking sheet and fold up all 4 sides of the foil. Spoon the chili sauce mixture over the salmon. Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon, covering completely and sealing the packet closed.
- Place into oven and bake until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with peanuts and cilantro, if desired.
*Baking time may need to be adjusted depending on the thickness of the salmon.
This delicious recipe brought to you by Damn Delicious
Morrocan Shepherd's Pie
What to do with ground lamb? Meatballs…maybe. Burgers…another maybe. In the end I came across this pie recipe on Pinterest…not a surprise. It was fantastic! You will never make a traditional shepherds pie after you try this one.
Moroccan Shepherd's Pie With Sweet Potato (Our Four Forks)
Prep time 30 mins Cook time 40 mins Total time 1 hour 10 mins Serves: 4-6
- 1 lb. grass-fed ground lamb or beef (omit for vegan)
- 3 cups cooked chickpeas (or 2 15 oz. cans drained) (optional for meat version)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger root
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 2 cups chopped plum tomatoes (about ¾ 28 oz. can, drained)
- ½ cup stock (vegetable, chicken or beef) + salt to taste
- ½ cup currants or raisins
- ½ bunch cilantro, stems removed, chopped
For the mash:
- 1 lb. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (use white if you don't have any sweet potatoes) OR…use the instant Idaho brand potatoes and just add the spices…
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons non-dairy milk (more if needed)
- Brown the ground meat in a large skillet over medium high heat.
- Remove meat from skillet and set aside.
- Add olive oil to the pan along with the onions, garlic, ginger, spices and salt and cook for 8-10 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Return the meat to the pan (if using) along with the honey, tomatoes and stock.
- Bring to a boil and simmer until the sauce is thickened, about 10 minutes more.
- Add chickpeas (if using), currants, and chopped cilantro, stir and remove from heat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For the mash:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Drain well and add the olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, salt and milk.
- With a hand blender (or potato masher), blend until they reach a creamy consistency.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fill a 13 in x 9 in casserole dish with the filling and spread the mash on top.
- Bake for 40 minutes until the topping is beginning to brown.
- Garnish with extra chopped cilantro, if desired.


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MSC Cruises To Develop Caribbean Island Experience
MSC Cruises has confirmed it will develop a new marine reserve island experience in the Caribbean. The Geneva-based cruise line has signed a 100-year lease agreement with the Bahamas for the new Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. At 95 acres in size, the island will be the biggest development by a cruise company in the … Continue reading
MSC Lirica To Shanghai In 2016
MSC Cruises has unveiled plans for the line's first sailing to China, with the revitalized MSC Lirica calling in Shanghai on 1 May 2016 following a transcontinental repositioning sailing. The ship, which will be fully renovated and stretched in November 2015 prior to deployment, will depart Rio de Janeiro on 3 March 2016 on a … Continue reading
MSC Cruises Announces Cuba Season
Italy-based MSC Cruises, the world's largest privately-owned global cruise line, announced details of its upcoming Cuba season today. From December 2015, the 2,120-guest MSC Opera will homeport in Havana to offer guests 16 Caribbean cruises, replacing the ship's original winter 2015-16 schedule in the Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco. Cuba, Jamaica, Cayman Islands and Mexico The … Continue reading


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Braeloch Brewing officially opens in Kennett Square
By Richard Gaw
By Richard L. Gaw
Staff Writer
After prolonged delays that whetted the anticipation of a curious public, and following several soft openings this winter, the doors of the long-awaited Braeloch Brewing in Kennett Square finally swung officially open this past weekend, and the crowds flowed faster than the beer did.
From Friday afternoon to Sunday evening, the new brewpub's parking area was filled in all directions, which subsequently turned Birch Street into a jammed matrix of vehicles and excitement, as hundreds of customers filled the renovated building to capacity. Once inside, customers bellied up to the bar to sample the Blue Hen Gold, Kennett Brown Ale and the 33rd Marc, sample tasty treats from food trucks outside and hear live music all weekend long.
At the entrance of the brewpub, a sign read, "Welcome home."
"The emotions we've had have been excitement, fear, anger, frustration and back to excitement again," said Kent Steeves, who owns the brewpub along with his wife, Amy, and Matt and Kathy Drysdale. "It's been a long journey. We signed a lease on this building 22 months ago. It's an old building, so we knew we would have challenges here, but it's been worth the wait."
Although March 1-3 served as the official opening of Braeloch Brewing, it wasn't the first time the brewery has welcomed visitors. Ten by-invitation-only soft openings were held in February, which allowed 30 invitees at each event to sample beer, take tours of the brewery, meet the owners, bartenders and servers, and mingle with other guests.
"On the night of the first 30-person soft opening, my stomach was in knots," said Kathy Drysdale. "We kept asking, 'Have we done everything right?' After the first night, we thought, 'We've got this.' Each night got a little easier, and we got a little more confident. Now we have to transfer that confidence from 30 people and apply it to serving hundreds of people, and that's a big transition."
While giving a lot of credit to his wife Amy and the Drysdales, Steeves also recognized many others who helped lend some "elbow grease" that converted a 9,000-square-foot brick warehouse built in 1903 into a space that features a 4,000-square-foot tap room area and a brewing room. He thanked his two daughters, who now live in Charlotte, N.C., and the Drysdale's daughters.
"So many people committed to paint, even on the hottest, nastiest of days," Steeves said. "If they gave us ten minutes, we took it, because they knew they would become part of the fun. That was priceless."
Steeves also thanked his brother, Brett, who designed the brewery's 78-foot-long signature bar, which weaves its way along the far-right wall.
"It's got corners and it's got curves, and if you want to have a conversation with one person, you can do so, but if you want to add a third person into the conversation, you can do so. It's become a facilitator of that family feeling that we want to bring here."
Steeves said as a brewer, he feels the pressure to live up to the high standards set by those brewpubs that have preceded Braeloch in the southern Chester County area, like the Kennett Brewing Company, Victory Brewing Company, Two Stones Pub and the Levante Brewing Company, to name a few. As an owner, Steeves and his partners are on a fast track to complete the outdoor beer garden, turn the brewery's kitchen over to a restaurant group; and complete several other cosmetic changes.
"Once you open, everything switches over from 'How much money do we have left to spend?' to 'What are we going to do next?'" he said. "People who have walked through this door have told us, 'This place is amazing,' but to us, we're not finished. We have to keep this journey going. This weekend will give us a moment to breathe a little bit, but we're about to go right back in and do more."
The official opening of Braeloch Brewing nearly coincides with the rebirth of the Creamery of Kennett Square, which reopened last November to great fanfare, as well as a new infrastructure and a hatchet-tossing venue. Steeves said that the opening of Braeloch creates a "collaborative effort" between the two businesses.
"There were a large number of people at our soft openings who came here, went to the Creamery and came back here," he said. "A rising tide raises all boats. The Creamery is not a craft brewery like we are, but they're achieving the same thing that Braeloch will do – to provide a wonderful place for people to go."
The roots of Kennett Square's newest brewery trace back to the home that Steeves' parents purchased three decades ago in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. In a short time, the home became a serene refuge for everyone who entered there, and when each visitor arrived, he or she was met with a welcoming sign that hung on a lamppost that read, "Braeloch." While its literal translation is a Scottish term that stands for "hill by a lake," the word came to define for the Steeves' a spirit of energy that can be found when people gather in conversation and camaraderie.
"It's all about family," Steeves said. "Those are the precious times in life, and it's hard to count those out, because you don't know until you lose them just how important they are to you. We knew that's what we wanted to bring here."
Braeloch Brewing is located at 225 Birch Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348. To learn more, visit www.braelochbrewing.beer.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email email@example.com.


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World's Best Beaches in St. Petersburg!
Gulf Beaches – St. Petersburg has some of the finest beaches in the world. There's blue skies and endless days of sunshine. 35 miles of white, sandy beaches stretch offshore. Owning a home or a condo in St. Petersburg close to one of these magnificent beaches is a wise investment.
St. Petersburg Municipal Beach
St. Petersburg Municipal Beach – this barrier island is 7 miles long and is comprised of five miles of white sandy beach and the Don Cesar Beach Resort where people come from all over the world to visit. St. Pete Beach is filled with shopping, evening entertainment and every type of water sport. The city's founding fathers purchased the Treasure Island beach outside its city limits to ensure that residents would have direct access to the Gulf of Mexico for years to come. The beach has full shower facilities, a snack bar, volleyball courts, and a beach wheelchair for handicapped visitors. The beaches around this area are so clean that they have won awards from the Clean Beaches Council for the second year in a row.
Ft. DeSoto Beach
Ft. DeSoto Beach – a beach that has been ranked number one in the United States, Fort De Soto Park boasts 900 pristine acres and seven miles of sandy beaches. A total of five islands, the park features a fort built during the Spanish-American War on the biggest of the islands called Mullet Key. Fort DeSoto, named after a Spanish explorer, was built in 1898 in an effort to protect Tampa Bay during the war. The fort also was occupied during World War I and during World War II for a short time. The fort never fired on an enemy. In the late 1940s, the fort was sold to Pinellas County but the park wasn't dedicated until May 11, 1963. Two piers for fishing, camping areas, bathrooms and covered picnic areas are available. Fort De Soto Park also offers rental facilities for canoes, kayaks and bicycles as well as a biking and skating trail. There are many luxury homes and condominiums within a short bike ride or drive to Ft. DeSoto.
Shell Key
Shell Key -This undeveloped barrier island is famous for shelling, sunbathing and bird watching opportunities, not to mention beautiful sunsets. Many boats from St. Pete Beach and John's Pass offer sightseeing rides that take guests to Shell Key for sunbathing and dolphin watching near the island. Visiting Shell Key should be on your list of things to do. It's also considered one of the five most important areas in the State for migrating and nesting endangered sea and shore birds.
Egmont Key
Egmont Key – This island is comprised 440 acres and is the home of the last government-manned lighthouse in the United States. Built in 1858, Egmont Key was a Navy base during the Civil War. It was also a camp for Seminole Indians captured during the Third Seminole war. Several area boats will bring you on a snorkeling excursion to this island. You can snorkel around the entire island finding unspoiled grass beds and ruins of gun batteries from the fort, or just enjoy the sandy white beach. When you own property in St. Petersburg, you will never run out of new and exciting places to explore.
Pass-A-Grille Beach
Pass-A-Grille Beach – was among the first barrier islands to be established on Florida's West Coast. For this it is registered National Historic District. This area has no condominiums or high-rise buildings, keeping it a private and quiet piece of old Florida. People come from all around to watch the sunset at the area's public access beach. The beach is pretty long, it starts at 1st Avenue to 22nd Avenue along Gulf Way and offers public parking. This beach is a stunning example of all the Florida has to offer. It's white, sandy beaches and peaceful laid back atmosphere has long been considered one of the best of the west coast beaches.
Popular Parks of St. Petersburg
There are approximately 125 parks in the city on 2,500 broad acres, including a 7 mile pristine downtown waterfront. Listed below is just one of the many parks you can enjoy if you relocate to the St. Petersburg area.
Boyd Hill Nature Park
Boyd Hill Nature Park – 1101 Country Club Way South, St. Petersburg, FL. A unique nature preserve sprawling across 245 acres of terrain, with marshlands, lake shores, and forests. Wildlife including birds to alligators reside in the area. There are also boardwalks and nature trails. A good way to escape the bustling development of the city without being too far away from civilization. Boyd Hill Nature Park has more than three miles of trails and boardwalks to explore on a trip to Pinellas County.