July 2nd, 2009

Who Should Jillian Pick?

We’re down to the final 4 on The Bachelorette!  Monday night was a huge surprise with the return of Ed; however, no family meeting could prove to be a deal breaker.  It seems like most seasons there is a clear favorite (or at least a clear best choice), but this season is tough to call.  We’re between Kiptyn and Ed – who do you think Jillian should pick?  Wes, Ed, Kiptyn, or Reid?

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July 1st, 2009

Shrimp and Grits for the Waistline Conscious

Dear elaney,
I’m from Georgia, and I just love Southern food, but I can’t cook like eGrandmum and still look cute on the beach!  Any ideas?
Love,
Hungry in Henry County

Dear Hungry, Try these Shrimp and Grits!  Only 283 calories, 7 fat grams per serving.  And delicious.  Thanks KK for the tip!  xx, elaney

ShrimpandGrits
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3/4 cup grits
1/2 cup Boursin Light cheese
2 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
1 bunch scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound peeled large shrimp
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
salt and pepper

Bring broth to a boil in a medium sauce-pan over high heat. Stir in
grits; reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 7 minutes, stirring
occasionally. Stir in Boursin cheese until combined; cover and set
aside.

While grits are cooking, heat oil in a large nonstick skilllet over
medium-high heat. Add scallions, garlic, and shrimp and saute for 2
minutes. Then add tomatoes and cook 2 more minutes, or until shrimp
turn pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Divide warm grits among 4 shallow bowls.

July 1st, 2009

Favorite Things #18

A Favorite Things listing is loooong overdue, and Votivo Candles are the lucky winner.  Not much for the “scented candle” (Bath and Body Works in 7th grade put us a little over the edge there), Votivo Candles are fragrant enough to make you lay your head down, smile, and fall asleep.  A great little hostess gift or birthday present, the Red Currant version the one that tickles our fancy.  “An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips,” and in all honesty, so are these candles!

votivo-red-currant-01

June 30th, 2009

elaney dot wordsmith

“elaney, your car looks damanged, but not totaled.  Is that how all your relationships end up?” -eBoss, watching my car being lifted from the parking lot pile up

IMG_0625  IMG_0626

June 30th, 2009

Beach Read Run Down

Ever have a day where you feel like you can’t catch a break?  Perhaps a little escapist reading will do the trick!  Fourth of July weekend is upon us, and you need some good reading for the lake / beach!  This summer’s best beach reads:

Love the One You’re With, Emily Giffin

0312348673_01_LZZZZZZZLittle sad for our tastes, but it is set in the ATL which makes for a fun change.  Similar to her other books – very relateable characters, little weak on plot – all and all, it’s fun to read.  Final word – borrow, don’t buy.

 Misery Loves Cabernet, Kim Gruenenfelder

n307546Not since the First and Second Assistant have we fallen so in love with a crazy heroine!  MLC is the story of Charlie and her friends and family navigating the crazy LA dating world.  Suuuuper witty and clever.  Fun read!  Can’t wait to read her first one…Total Waste of Makeup.

 Secrets of a Show Addict, Beth Harbison

Secrets_of_a_Shoe_Addict-120706821784114Have not read this one, but can’t wait too!  Second novel from the author, it’s the story of four ladies bought together not by shoes, but by their debt.  Reviews call it fast-paced and fun!

June 30th, 2009

elaney dot wordsmith

3:30 pm – via phone
elaney:  “Hi, I’m going to need to rent a car.”
Enterprise Car Rental:  “Sure, what kind would you like?”
elaney: “Oh I don’t care – maybe something with XM radio?!”

Later that day…at the Enterprise on Piedmont
Becca, Enterprise Assistant Manager: “elaney, we’ve got a great car for you!!”
elaney:  “Oh thanks – y’all have been so helpful.”
Becca: “It’s a…Hummer!”
elaney: (sighs).

And scene.

hummer - eclipsing my house
hummer eclipsing my house…