Deep Freeze

Anti ICE

January in Florida is, as you can guess, pretty great.

This year though we’re having super cold snaps (when I woke up today, it “felt like” 32 degrees) because the rest of the country is in a deep freeze. My hot chocolate game is back in business.

Also, in this era of my life, I’m spending a week each January in Newport, Rhode Island while getting my MFA. As a knitter, I get a thrill packing for my January trip up north. I get my stepladder to reach the box on the top shelf where all of my scarves, mittens, earmuffs and sweaters hibernate all year.

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Before I leave on solo trips, I like to make some food for G so he doesn’t have to worry about feeding himself for a few days. The kitchen is not his favorite place.

I made a Korean-style brisket with kimchi slaw from Melissa Clark’s Instant Pot cookbook. I got to have a delicious farewell dinner and G had leftovers.

I also made a huge batch of chicken stock and filled eight freezer containers (a Christmas gift!) When I returned home, I raided the freezer to use homemade stock for a pot of chili, a mushroom gravy, and a bowl of ramen noodles.

While in Newport, I went out to eat a few times instead of spending all my time in the dining hall.

Bar’Cino is now a fave.

I shared mushroom ravioli and an arugula salad with my friend, Reid. On the second visit, she ordered that ravioli for herself (smart girl) and I ordered a grilled pizza with sausage, roasted kale, and dollops of lemon ricotta.

Reid took this photo of me and I think she caught my true self. Pizza = joy.

Back home, bundling up, and hoping you’re safe and sound.

I care about you. Please don’t forget to eat your greens.