On Saturday I attended my first ever zombie walk with the boys. Steve donned his Caeser costume with all 23 knives embedded and I opted for the rather unimaginative but not too labour intensive Wonder-Woman. I was amazed at the number of zombies, easily close to 1000 and the march commenced promptly at 2 in a very orderly manner. There were some very creative costumes, particularly a gaggle of "zombie golfers" one who had a golf ball embedded in his cheek the other a gal skewered through with a golf club. The weather was extraordinarily warm and clear. A beautiful fall day! After enjoying this event we headed home to greet the trick or treaters. We got a lot of kids, many of whom were a little long in the tooth for candy wrangling but never mind. Some great costumes particularly a gal with an absolutely incredible big bad Wolf which she had MADE! I LOVE homemade costumes!! Some friends popped over and we toddled down to the local community bonfire which was so beautiful with the full moon overhead. Steve and I are finding our allegiance is shifting from James Bay to Fairfield. Fairfield seems to have a genuine pleasing sense of community. Even our neighbors popped by with their little girl (about 2 trick or treat bag in tow) and introduced themselves. Very sweet!
We capped everything off with a movie. The boys opted for "Thirty Days of Night" which is a superbly atmospheric almost unbearably intense vampire thriller. A rare, smart script - beautiful visuals! This is one of those movies that came and went and nobody saw it which is a crying shame when you think of the success of horror movies such as the Saw franchise which are sadistic and actually awful. Then a work of art like this appears and nobody hears of it. Too bad, its got everything horror fans want and everything movie lovers like at the same time. A non-hokey script, terrifying suspense, an involving story etc.
Sunday the boys were saddled with terrible headcolds. Steve and I still managed to go to Goldstream Park to see the Salmon spawning. This spectacle never fails to awe me and I love the smell of those gorgeous huge cedar trees. We popped home and I made an Asiany easy dinner, pork tenderloin in hoisin sauce, steamed basmati rice and broccoli with sesame oil, ginger and chile.
In a nutshell it was a swell weekend. I continued to read David Gilmour's book. Its really moving and elucidates the bond between father and son without overdoing the sentiment. I used to think Gilmour was a bit of an asshole but I have revised my view. He writes with such tenderness and humanity. I look forward to devouring many more books this winter, and of course, more movies too!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Foo
Last night Steve and I were celebrating our 6 month anniversary. Since we are both saddled with your garden variety flu bug we opted for take out from a new joint called Foo which, in principle appears to be mimicking the perenially successful Noodle Box. Some folks want comforting blandness when they are under the weather, I am a gal who craves chili and heat!
We tried three dishes to share opting first for chicken soup with soy and ginger. I wanted this to try and placate my virus. We opted to share the Indonesian Fried Rice (with pulled pork and pineapple) and an intriguing starter dish referred to as Vietnamese caramel chicken. Excitedly we took the ample bag of nosh home with us. Everything is priced reasonably - our three dishes combined came to 23 bucks.
Steve and I agreed that the soup and Indonesian Fried Rice were adequately prepared but uninspiring. The soup was a tad heavy on the soy and VERY salty. However the caramel chicken was rhapsodically wonderful. Sweet, spicy morsels of fork tender chicken with crunchy bok choy and some very flavorful fried rice. For this dish alone I would go back to Foo, the crunchy soft texture of the chicken and salty sweet flavor was sublime. This reminded me of why I am so crazy for Vietnamese fare, its that sublime combination of freshness and amazing textures. You never feel all gross and grease laden after eating it.
I am eager to go back to Foo to try their other dishes. Their pakoras (as reported by another blogger) are purportedly delicious. Foo has other Indian fare on the menu such as butter chicken and paneer dumplings. The dishes range all over the globe but the menu is not overladen with choices. Staff are courteous and seem enthusiastic. There are daily specials in addition to the regular fare (which includes pot stickers, red thai curry and short rib chow mein to name a few).
I think Foo will be a welcome addition for those of us who want a quick bite before the movies or take out that is creatively prepared and isn't overly greasy or heavy. The caramel chicken dish alone is reason to visit this spot again! I look forward to another visit soon to try the other mouth watering options!
We tried three dishes to share opting first for chicken soup with soy and ginger. I wanted this to try and placate my virus. We opted to share the Indonesian Fried Rice (with pulled pork and pineapple) and an intriguing starter dish referred to as Vietnamese caramel chicken. Excitedly we took the ample bag of nosh home with us. Everything is priced reasonably - our three dishes combined came to 23 bucks.
Steve and I agreed that the soup and Indonesian Fried Rice were adequately prepared but uninspiring. The soup was a tad heavy on the soy and VERY salty. However the caramel chicken was rhapsodically wonderful. Sweet, spicy morsels of fork tender chicken with crunchy bok choy and some very flavorful fried rice. For this dish alone I would go back to Foo, the crunchy soft texture of the chicken and salty sweet flavor was sublime. This reminded me of why I am so crazy for Vietnamese fare, its that sublime combination of freshness and amazing textures. You never feel all gross and grease laden after eating it.
I am eager to go back to Foo to try their other dishes. Their pakoras (as reported by another blogger) are purportedly delicious. Foo has other Indian fare on the menu such as butter chicken and paneer dumplings. The dishes range all over the globe but the menu is not overladen with choices. Staff are courteous and seem enthusiastic. There are daily specials in addition to the regular fare (which includes pot stickers, red thai curry and short rib chow mein to name a few).
I think Foo will be a welcome addition for those of us who want a quick bite before the movies or take out that is creatively prepared and isn't overly greasy or heavy. The caramel chicken dish alone is reason to visit this spot again! I look forward to another visit soon to try the other mouth watering options!
Friday, October 30, 2009
The Film Club
The Film Club
Category: Movies, TV, Celebrities
I have begun reading David Gilmour's memoir "The Film Club". Gilmour, a CBC journalist and movie critic sets out to home school his son via his love of world cinema.
I am only two essays into this marvelous book which, at its core, is really a about father son relationships (and the tribulations of growing up and becoming self actualized). Gilmour makes the unorthodox choice of allowing his son to drop out of high school on the condition he watch three movies a week of his father's choosing. As discussions ensue between father and son after each lovingly chosen movie the bond between them deepens.
Can't wait to finish this book and resume my own movie nights with cherished friends.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/gilmour.html
I love discussing everything about the movies, not just the aesthetic beauty of what is on screen but why some movies still captivate after decades of repeated viewing. I cannot
Category: Movies, TV, Celebrities
I have begun reading David Gilmour's memoir "The Film Club". Gilmour, a CBC journalist and movie critic sets out to home school his son via his love of world cinema.
I am only two essays into this marvelous book which, at its core, is really a about father son relationships (and the tribulations of growing up and becoming self actualized). Gilmour makes the unorthodox choice of allowing his son to drop out of high school on the condition he watch three movies a week of his father's choosing. As discussions ensue between father and son after each lovingly chosen movie the bond between them deepens.
Can't wait to finish this book and resume my own movie nights with cherished friends.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/gilmour.html
I love discussing everything about the movies, not just the aesthetic beauty of what is on screen but why some movies still captivate after decades of repeated viewing. I cannot
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Canoe pub
Last weekend after some serious retail therapy I needed to give my tootsies a rest and slake my thirst. Decided to head down to one of my fave watering holes, Canoe Pub.
I ordered a Pimm's cocktail, which is a deviation from my usual preferred brew. I was in the mood for something lighter. This unusual concoction of ginger beer, 7 up, orange, lemon and cucumber was refreshing and delicious - this is going to be my summer bevvy of choice, heavy addiction factor for you ginger lovers out there!
I was torn between ordering the Thai Beef salad or the Salmon confit salad and after much deliberation chose the latter. What I got was a gorgeous filet of olive oil poached bc salmon with oven dried tomatoes, fresh spinach leaves, potatoes, pancetta, tapenade and the whole thing was dressed with the most heavenly lemon vinagrette. The whole thing was healthy, visually appealing and wholeheartedly delicious. The portion size was moderate (though the salmon fillet was a very generous size). If you are really starving I'd suggest an appy also. I ended the meal with the Canoe brownie which had an appealing texture but wasn't quite as densely chocolatey as I prefer. Then again, I am very fussy about my brownie! It has to be fudgy, NOT cakey and it has to taste of dark chocolate. However the rasberry coulis drizzled over top of it was very yummy. Canoe also brews a delicious cup of java. My suggestion would be if you have lunch at Canoe and are still craving dessert after to head to Sweet Memories on Government and have one of their legendary ice cream cones.
Canoe pub is bright and airy with high ceilings and a fantastic outdoor patio. Prices are a little higher than the usual pub fare. My salad was 17 dollars but Canoe endeavors to source most of their ingredients from up island and this always wins brownie points with me! I think its worth the extra bucks. Service is always personable and friendly. Its a favorite hang out with me! Give it a try, their nachos and burgers are great and the mediterranean vegetable pizza is another fave.
I ordered a Pimm's cocktail, which is a deviation from my usual preferred brew. I was in the mood for something lighter. This unusual concoction of ginger beer, 7 up, orange, lemon and cucumber was refreshing and delicious - this is going to be my summer bevvy of choice, heavy addiction factor for you ginger lovers out there!
I was torn between ordering the Thai Beef salad or the Salmon confit salad and after much deliberation chose the latter. What I got was a gorgeous filet of olive oil poached bc salmon with oven dried tomatoes, fresh spinach leaves, potatoes, pancetta, tapenade and the whole thing was dressed with the most heavenly lemon vinagrette. The whole thing was healthy, visually appealing and wholeheartedly delicious. The portion size was moderate (though the salmon fillet was a very generous size). If you are really starving I'd suggest an appy also. I ended the meal with the Canoe brownie which had an appealing texture but wasn't quite as densely chocolatey as I prefer. Then again, I am very fussy about my brownie! It has to be fudgy, NOT cakey and it has to taste of dark chocolate. However the rasberry coulis drizzled over top of it was very yummy. Canoe also brews a delicious cup of java. My suggestion would be if you have lunch at Canoe and are still craving dessert after to head to Sweet Memories on Government and have one of their legendary ice cream cones.
Canoe pub is bright and airy with high ceilings and a fantastic outdoor patio. Prices are a little higher than the usual pub fare. My salad was 17 dollars but Canoe endeavors to source most of their ingredients from up island and this always wins brownie points with me! I think its worth the extra bucks. Service is always personable and friendly. Its a favorite hang out with me! Give it a try, their nachos and burgers are great and the mediterranean vegetable pizza is another fave.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Pink Bicycle
I recently tried the new burger joint in Victoria called Pink Bicycle with a tasty outcome! The space is airy and funky with hardwood floors and modern décor. On first visit I tried the classic beef burger with the addition of caramelized onions and garlic mushrooms. The patty was moist and flavorful and not over-seasoned. Buns are provided by bon Bon’s bakery right next door and they are a good accompaniment to the burger. The homemade onion rings are delightful – the batter yields a satisfying crunch. Service is attentive and polite. Pink Bicycle sources the majority of its ingredients from the bounty of Vancouver Island with yummy results. On my second visit I tried the lamb burger which came with a generous delicious topping of outstanding blue cheese – I failed to detect the apricot chutney that was supposed to be on there but enjoyed the burger nonetheless. Again the patty was of ample size, moist and seasoned enough to bring out the flavor but not too much to overpower the meat. A refreshing salad of local greens accompanied my burger off-setting any heaviness. I washed it all down with a lovely Vancouver Island Pilsner ale.
Pink Bicycle will definitely be a regular part of my dining out repertoire because, dog gone it, sometimes a girl just craves a good burger! There are tempting veggie burger choices for those that don’t do meat. There are also some amazing salads like the poached pear spinach salad. For dessert is the epinonymous pink lemonade cheesecake. I am not a cheesecake person but my friend declared it delicious.
Pink Bicycle will definitely be a regular part of my dining out repertoire because, dog gone it, sometimes a girl just craves a good burger! There are tempting veggie burger choices for those that don’t do meat. There are also some amazing salads like the poached pear spinach salad. For dessert is the epinonymous pink lemonade cheesecake. I am not a cheesecake person but my friend declared it delicious.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Quentin Tarantino's Girlfriend
Last night I was chatting with a friend on the phone and we were discussing Quentin Tarantino's girlfriend. We weren't sure if he currently has one. Mira Sorvino doesn't seem right. He needs someone quirkie Someone who will get his whole rapid fire speech patter liberally punctuated with "you knows" and "all rights". Someone who understands he's like a manic golden retriever or a vaguely annoying yet endearing older brother. Anyhow, I don't know if he has a girlfriend or not. Amanda Plummer might be good. A girlie version of Crispin Glover might work.. Does one exist?. A Judy Holliday type would be perfect if there was a modern incarnation. I'll ruminate on this some more. I am sure its important in the grande scheme of things...
Watched a documentary on public TV about the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. All that remarkable human endeavor. Why is there such a dirth of beauty in modern architecture? I would have loved to have been a Victorian lady in a big hat, riding a ferry to New York and seeing the bridge light up for the first time on the water. Wouldn't that have been marvelous!
I like the word "hippocampus". Like a noggin full of cute baby hippos or a bunch of hippos lounging on a university campus smoking weed and talking about Nabokov.
Ok, thats it for now.
N
Watched a documentary on public TV about the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. All that remarkable human endeavor. Why is there such a dirth of beauty in modern architecture? I would have loved to have been a Victorian lady in a big hat, riding a ferry to New York and seeing the bridge light up for the first time on the water. Wouldn't that have been marvelous!
I like the word "hippocampus". Like a noggin full of cute baby hippos or a bunch of hippos lounging on a university campus smoking weed and talking about Nabokov.
Ok, thats it for now.
N
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
World Leaders I Have Loved
Y'know, I was thinking of Boutros-Boutros Ghali today because his name is just so much fun to say over and over again. Seriously, you should try it! For example, I wonder if Boutros-Boutros Ghali likes oatmeal? I wonder if Boutros-Boutros Ghali likes to shake his money maker? If G. Gordon Liddy married Boutros-Boutros Ghali, then divorced him to marry Kenny G., wouldn't he'd be G. Ghali G? What about in the throes of passion? It'd be a mouthful wouldn't it?
That's all for now.
N
That's all for now.
N
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Review Lady Marmalade Restaurant
Hiya! Heads up for you Victoria folks that I have found an, addictive brunch/lunch destination nestled downtown on Johnson Street. Its the perfect place to stop for sustenance before hitting the thrift shops.
The joint is called "Lady Marmalade". My friends have been recommending it for awhile and I finally managed to toddle down there on a sleepy Saturday morning. Lady Marmalade has funky decor, friendly service and mouthwatering menu items such as rasberry chocolate french toast, savory spinach cheese waffles and benny with avacado, brie and bacon. Loads of vegetarian options too for those that don't do meat.
My benny (with avacado, brie and bacon) had lovely silken lemony hollandaise and the eggs had the beautiful rich yellow yolks that only come from well fed free range chickens. I had some chipotle hot sauce to dunk my pan fries into (which were very tasty) and they give you a gloriously crisp palate cleansing green salad to cap things off. Tasty coffee. They also have a tempting array of sandwiches. Definitely going back, this is going to be a regular haunt!
Below is the link to the restaurant website:
http://www.ladymarmalade.ca/
The joint is called "Lady Marmalade". My friends have been recommending it for awhile and I finally managed to toddle down there on a sleepy Saturday morning. Lady Marmalade has funky decor, friendly service and mouthwatering menu items such as rasberry chocolate french toast, savory spinach cheese waffles and benny with avacado, brie and bacon. Loads of vegetarian options too for those that don't do meat.
My benny (with avacado, brie and bacon) had lovely silken lemony hollandaise and the eggs had the beautiful rich yellow yolks that only come from well fed free range chickens. I had some chipotle hot sauce to dunk my pan fries into (which were very tasty) and they give you a gloriously crisp palate cleansing green salad to cap things off. Tasty coffee. They also have a tempting array of sandwiches. Definitely going back, this is going to be a regular haunt!
Below is the link to the restaurant website:
http://www.ladymarmalade.ca/
Review Little Thai Place
Lately I have been eating out a bit more often and had the luck to be introduced to another addictive restaurant "The Little Thai Place". I chose a dish that consisted of fresh mounds of bean thread noodles with sprouts, cilantro, meat and shredded veggies - I am not sure I can discern the other flavor components in this dish (which was called "boraan" something, its a new dish they offer, the waitress assured me it would be tasty and she was right!). This was sustaining and, I think probably quite wholesome. My friend(s) had a beef salad, the ubiquitous crunchy spring rolls and a lovely yellow curry. Everything was tastefully/lovingly presented and at around 10-14$ an entree, very reasonable (portions were generous). They do take out and delivery too! The great thing about Thai food is it feels like you are eating something really decadent but its actually light, healthy and sustaining. I had nearly forgotten the addictive flavors and plan on cooking these types of dishes more often at home. Recommended!
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