7/9/13

watermelon sorbet

Confession: I have spent so little time in our new kitchen this summer that I still have to open multiple drawers and cabinets to find things!  This is partly due to the fact that I am studying and have no brain power left at the end of the day to decide what to make, but it is also because I have a great husband who has taken over kitchen duties for me.  This is relevant to you, dear readers, because it means the recipe posts have been nonexistent.  I apologize and promise to be back soon!  

While I can't say that I am feeling like a whiz in our new kitchen, I can safely say this is the best homemade sorbet you have ever tasted.  I promise it is worth the pain of dusting off the ice cream maker.  Give it a try this summer with whatever fruit variety you have on hand and prepare to be addicted!  

A gentle reminder: put the freezer bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer in advance!


Watermelon Sorbet
recipe from: http://www.asweetpeachef.com

Ingredients:
  • 1 1/4 c. sugar
  • 1 1/4 c. water
  • 6-7 c. fresh seedless watermelon chunks (about half a watermelon)
  • 3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (about 3 1/2 medium limes
Directions:
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring sugar and water to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer until sugar is completely disolved (do not stir.)  Place in a bowl to completely cool.
  2. Put watermelon chunks and lime into blender or food processor.  Pulse to chop melon and process until watermelon is completely pureed.  Press watermelon through fine mesh strainer to remove seeds and any extra pulp.  
  3. Combine watermelon with cooled sugar.  Chill in refrigerator for 1 hour.
  4. Pour watermelon mixture into the freezer bowl of your ice cream maker.  Mix until sorbet has thickened, about 25-35 minutes.  (The sorbet should have a texture similar to soft serve ice cream or yogurt.)
  5. You can serve immediately or place in an airtight container in the freezer for about 2 hours to firm.
Enjoy!
xo,



7/8/13

thought for the week: living


We all do it.  Sometimes life just gets too hectic and too crazy and we go into cruise control.  We exist without really living and without really appreciating the wonderful (yet hectic and crazy) pieces of the day.  

I have been EXTREMELY guilty of existing this summer.  Anyone who has spoken to me will tell you that my mantra is "August 1."  I have been putting off exercise, cooking, decorating, and seeing friends.  If that's not just existing, I don't know what is!

While a certain amount of focus is a necessary evil of this bar exam process, I have decided that I can't let it continue to rule my everyday existence.  I will certainly still spend the majority of my days (and nights) studying, but I am also determined to enjoy the little parts life that come daily.  Somedays living might mean taking the pup for an extra walk to enjoy the new neighborhood.  Other days might mean whipping up a batch of my favorite chocolate chip cookie dough and indulging in some HGTV.  Sometimes I might get really wild and have dinner out with Josh or friends.  Whatever living means on a particular day, my goal is to enjoy each day, not just exist until August.  

I started this weekend with a run on Saturday and Sunday and the soreness of my legs is a good reminder to keep living.  What do you do to enjoy your days and really live rather than just exist?

xo,


7/3/13

happy 4th

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Happy 4th of July Friends!  Wishing you a day of sparklers, flags, fireworks, and of course watermelon...lots and lots of watermelon.  
Whether your plans involve a cookout, beach time, or watching fireworks with your family and friends, take a moment to be thankful for the many freedoms you enjoy every day of the year.   Happy 4th!

xo,