Happy Father's Day!

We had a very special and eventful Father's day weekend. My parents came into town on Friday, so Darin and I had a date night. We had some drinks and appetizers at 54th street Bar and Grill. It was nice to have some time together. Then on Saturday morning, all of us went to Deanna Rose Farm. My parents had never been there and were amazed at all of the fun and activities available for families. If my parents had more time they might consider building or owning something very similar. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa.

So Saturday evening, Darin and I had another date night in honor of Father's Day. We had reservations at Capital Grill on the Plaza, one of our favorite places to dine. Our favorite course is dessert and the coconut cream pie is a must!

Sunday we woke up and the kiddos were delighted to have Dad's pancakes. They are such a hit and Darin makes special pancakes as requested. We love you Darin!

smoking

Last weekend I tried a new approach to smoking pork tenderloin.   It worked out great. 

I took the loin and instead of cutting it to stuff it, I opened it up like a pinwheel. It basically unrolled to fit onto a cookie sheet. Once flat I added my favorite cheddar and bacon brats (2 of them). I took the casing off the brats, flattened out the meat and then added it as a layer on top of the loin. I then added some yellow mustard, garlic, some baby food applesauce, ground peppercorns, chipotle flakes and then rolled the loin back into a loaf. I then added a rub to the outside of the loin and wrapped it in smoked bacon to hold it together.

I let it sit for 3 hrs in the fridge and then put it in the smoker for 3 hrs at 240. It came out perfect. Kids (1 yr old and 3 yr old) couldn't stop eating it. The meat was tender and had great taste.
 
I think my next project is to either smoke prime rib or try making a smoked cream of tomato soup.

Crazy Hair Day at school

Team didn't want their picture taken

Parker wanted Red Hair

Still wants red hair

All giggles

looking for trouble

New Closet

The last few weeks we have been in the process of tearing out our old closet, having a new one put in and then putting back all our stuff (and getting rid of things at the same time). You can see our transformation... and all our stuff.