Date ideas

A Fountain Frenzy!

by Sarah Novak on March 30, 2013

_MG_2915

Today we took a family field trip into downtown Lima to see Parque de Las Reserva (or the “Fountain Park” as it’s called when you can’t remember the Spanish name).  We’ve been meaning to get here forever but something’s always gotten in the way.  Today, we finally made it and were rewarded with the most glorious day ever!

_MG_2880

First, a bit about the place.  The park is comprised of 13 unique fountains.  It’s open from 3-11 PM Wednesday through Sunday and only costs a little over a dollar to get in.  Some fountains are for viewing only and others are open for kids to play in.  After dark, all of the fountains light up and the largest has a fountain show with lights and music (similar to the Bellagio one in Las Vegas).

_MG_2859

We only stayed from 3-5 PM, so we’ll have to venture back at night some other time to see the light show.  Despite missing the big draw, we had an absolutely marvelous time.  Besides food, parks are the other thing the Peru does consistently well.  They’re always well-manicured, spacious, litter free escapes from the city.

_MG_2925

We have a small fountain by our house and each and every time we pass it Nia screams with delight.  We knew that 13 gigantic fountains would guarantee some pee-your-pants excitement from her (ha ha – baby joke!)

_MG_2907

The kiddo loved each and every one.  She was sooo eager to jump in them and finally got her wish at the end of our visit when we arrived at the kid’s fountain.  I’m sure you’ve all seen these before, the ones where the water changes heights and shoots out and surprises you.  That’s exactly what it was, but like quadruple the size of normal ones.

_MG_2945

I wanted to be brave enough to go in with Nia, but I chickened out and Nick had to take her in (I’m not too keen on water unless it’s 100 degrees) 

_MG_2953

Nick desperately wants us to blend in public, but unfortunately he ended up with two loud-mouthed, attention-loving blondes.  Blend is one thing we do not excel at.  He was mortified by all the attention, but we ate it up.  2 vs 1, girls win!

_MG_2923

Some days, parenting kicks my butt.  Other days it is effortless and magical, full of good memories & meaningful connections between the 3 of us.  Happily, today fell into the latter category.  I know “Fountain Day” will stay seared in my memory for a long time to come. . . I love my little family!

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

Choco-Mania!

by Sarah Novak on January 22, 2013

January has been plum full of visitors! My sister Jenna was here from January 2nd to the 12th and then my dear college friend Rachel arrived on the 12th and stayed until the 21st. Talk about non-stop hostessing! Oh, and did I mention that my in-laws arrive in 4 days for a month-long stay??? I love having visitors but I’m not going to pretend that it isn’t exhausting, especially now that I have the baby to tend to also…

Jenna and Rachel had very different ways they wanted to spend their time.  Jenna was all about adventure experiences, tanning and Nia time.  Rachel, on the other hand, was all about the Lima food experiences.  We did our best to satisfy her wish. 

She tried her first Pisco Sour and Ceviche at Gaston Acurio’s La Mar Cevicheria, took a cooking class with Nick at SkyKitchen and cinsisted on the truffle-making class at the Choco Museum. 

IMG_2585

I was a huge fan of the Bean to Bar Class I had taken with Jenna the week before and couldn’t see what the Truffle-making Class had in store for us!  What was great about taking both classes was that they each covered different things.  In this class, we learned how to temper the chocolate (stabilize it) and make the ganache filling that goes inside a truffle. 

Tempering is a process of heating the chocolate to 43 degrees Celsius, cooling it to 28 degrees Celcius and then bringing the temp up one more time to 31.5 degrees Celcius (careful, if you go over 32 degrees Celsius you’ve overcooked it and have to start the tempering all over again – guess if we might have done that???)

IMG_2590

When cooling the chocolate down to 28 degrees Celsius, it’s best to do it by spreading it out on a marble slab, although you can also do it in the fridge if you’re lacking marble.

IMG_2591

The process involves repeatedly spreading the chocolate and then collecting it again, taking temperature readings throughout.

IMG_2600

Here I am using a fancy-pants thermometer to test our chocolate (we had to put it in the fridge because it wasn’t getting cool enough on the marble with the sun shining in).  A candy thermometer works just as well.

We had previously made our ganache to go in the center of the truffle. Ganache consists of 2/3 chocolate + 1/3 cream and whatever you want to flavor it with (in our case, crushed coffee). You heat the cream to boiling with the crushed coffee in it, then pour the cream/coffee mixture into the warmed chocolate, capturing the coffee bits in a strainer. Next step is to let it cool for 5 hours and then mold it into balls for the center.

IMG_2603

We had the good fortune of making both ball truffles and molded candies with ganache centers.  In the photo above we’re coating the mold with the chocolate so that it will form a hard shell around the ganache.  For the molds, you don’t let the ganache cool for 5 hours, you simply use it while it’s in a lukewarm, pliable state.  Once we had filled the chocolate-coated mold with our ganache center, we sealed it up by putting another chocolate layer on top.

IMG_2621

Once cool, we had to pop our molded candies out of their shells.

IMG_2622

We also convinced them to let us paint them using this wicked-cool silver and gold candy paint.  Check out those pyramids!  Pretty sure we were just supposed to dust the candy, but it looked so pretty caked on…

IMG_2624

The final step for the Truffle balls was to dip the hardened ganache centers into the warm chocolate and tap them off, creating a smooth chocolate coating.  We then were free to decorate them with a variety of toppings.

IMG_2614

Look at my beauties below.  The toppings I chose are, from left to right: Quinoa (a Peruvian grain), Sea Salt, M & M’s, Chili Powder, Coffee Bean, & Coconut!

IMG_2618

Not gonna lie, I am insanely in love with this place.  Where else can you do a 2 hour fun workshop and then get to take home 12 pieces of AMAZING hand-crafted chocolate!  I’m thinking about doing a Valentine’s Day class next.  Any takers?

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

SmallWorld: Our Current Obsession

by Sarah Novak on October 18, 2011

Patience has never been one of my strong suits and honestly, these last 10 days have been downright torturous for me as I await Baby Nia’s arrival.  So much open space on the calendar and nothing to do but stare at my belly and will her to come out…

Sensing my growing distress, Nick came up with a brilliant idea at the end of last week.  He charged me with finding us a new 2 player strategy game to keep us occupied until she arrives.  I immediately took to the idea and started researching.  Since we intended to play it a lot over the next few months, I knew it must have a good combination of strategy, complexity and variability – namely, each game needed to feel new and exciting to keep us interested.  With that in mind, I took to the Board Game Forums.  I came across BoardGameGeek.com, BoardGameReviews.net and State of Play, a blog by the editor of Games Magazine.  From there, I found out that Games Magazine published a Best of Awards each year and perused that list.  I didn’t have to look far, because I clicked on the 2010 link for Game of the Year and was immediately enchanted with SmallWorld.

One of the things I appreciated most about it (and that got major thumbs up from reviewers) is that there are 4 different boards to accommodate 2-5 players.  What that ensures is that the board isn’t too big or too small for the number of people you have playing, keeping the challenge at an appropriate level.  The board above is the 3 player board and the one below is for 5 people.

The game has a bit of a RISK feel to it, as the objective is to build and expand your overall territory, collecting victory coins for holding land as long as possible.  You do this by deploying your fantasy race to acquire territories.  Unlike RISK however, there is no dice rolling for each territory acquisition, which makes it go much quicker.  Typical play for this game is anywhere from 40-80 minutes.

However, that’s where the similarities to RISK end.  Each game changes in variability due to the combination of Race and Special Powers that you select.  Strategy comes into play when selecting each randomly assigned combo.  Take the Race cards for example (on the right side of the picture above).  Each one has both a unique feature AND a number of representative tokens to conquer with (noted in orange).  Depending on what’s going on in the game at that moment, you may be more in need of sheer token numbers OR the special feature of that race (like collecting extra victory coins for certain holdings if you’re behind in coins).

That doesn’t even take into account the additional Special Power (represented by the cards on the left of the picture above).  Each Special Power has a unique capability to help you.  You may get to place markers that make your territory unconquerable or be able to conquer a territory for a reduced number of tokens.  Again, the fun comes in seeing which pairings come together and deciding the appropriate moment in the game to use them.

At this point I should throw out the one other caveat that makes this game exciting.  At any point during play, you can determine if you have over-extended your race and put it into decline.  This allows you to select a new Race/Power combination on your next turn and begin a new offensive move.  Additionally, you get to keep your declined race on the board, although it loses any Special Powers associated with it as well as the ability to attack with that Race.  You do however still collect Victory Coins for the territories those pieces occupy, adding another fun strategy element to the game.

Below is a picture of the various Race tokens that get used in play on the board.  The number you get to deploy is based on the combination of orange numbers on the cards (see above).

I know that may have sounded like an overwhelming description… and yes, we referred to the instructions non-stop for the first game but by Game 3 we had it all figured out and were thoroughly engrossed.  So engrossed in fact that we’ve played 7 times in 3 days and already ordered 2 new expansion packs to increase the variability of the game.  Does that make us obsessed?  YUP.  And we’re A-OK with that because we are desperately in need of good distractions as we wait for Nia’s arrival.

Ready to get your own game?  Head on over to AMAZON to order your own and get playing!  You’ll thank me, I promise.

I’d also love to get some comments on what other favorite strategy games you LOVE, especially if they’re good for 2 people!

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

{ 2 comments }

Date Night with TED

by Sarah Novak on April 18, 2010

For the last few years I’ve been hearing about these things called “TED” talks popping up in conversations and occasionally being circulated via Facebook and other social networking mediums.  I’d watched a few of the videos and knew they were high quality, but had never  taken the time to check out the site and understand the concept behind TED.

So today I thought I’d share a little background on it for those who are also unfamiliar.  Quite simply, TED is a non-profit devoted to sharing “Ideas Worth Spreading.”  Starting back in 1984, they created a conference that brought together people from the fields of Technology, Entertainment and Design.  Over the years more disciplines were integrated and the event expanded from one conference to four.  Of utmost importance at the conference is the fact that all talks must be recorded under a Creative Commons License, so that they can be freely shared across the internet.

Here’s a blip from their website that summarizes what they do:

“We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and ultimately, the world. So we’re building here a clearinghouse that offers free knowledge and inspiration from the world’s most inspired thinkers, and also a community of curious souls to engage with ideas and each other.”

To get a taste of what a TED Talk looks like, check out this 3 minute talk from Bobby McFerrin:

The Implications of Finding TED

Nick and I both love learning about random things, so discovering TED was a major find in our world.  In fact, we spent our entire Friday night watching Ted Talks that ranged from anywhere between 3 to 20 minutes.  We had a blast rotating back and forth, each choosing subjects that were of interest to us.  In the 90 minute span we would typically spend on a movie, we learned about:

  • A family escaping the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia,
  • Dan Pink talking about what motivates people,
  • Malcolm Gladwell talking about innovations in Food science, and
  • Jill Bolte talking about what happened to her brain function when she suffered a stroke.

All were equally captivating and when you add a little popcorn to the mix, you’ve pretty much got a perfect date night!  I recommend that you give it a try on your next designated “night in”.  I think you’ll find it a welcome change-up from the norm!

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

{ 8 comments }

Cheap Date Ideas: Summer Concert Season is underway!

by Sarah Novak on June 1, 2009

basilica

Seriously, there is no better time than June and July in Minnesota.  Not only do you have the great outdoors to romp in, but there are great concerts every weekend (that cost little or next to nothing to get into).  My hands-down favorite is the Basilica Block Party, which I had been involved in for the last three years.  I am VERY SAD to be missing it this year (tear)!  This is easily the best line-up they’ve had in 5 years.  Not only will there be a reunion concert by the Jayhawks, but performances by Mat Kearney, Matt Nathanson and Counting Crows (to name a few).  This year should not be missed!  Get your tickets now.  I am certain it will be sold-out by the night of.  For those of you who are curious about the summer music scene but have not yet attended, here are a few of my top picks:

  1. Basilica Block Party, July 10-12th, Minneapolis Basilica, www.basilicablockparty.org
  2. Grand Old Day, June 7th on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, www.grandave.com
  3. 24 Hours of Music, This has been a favorite of mine for years that Macy’s has sponsored at Orchestra Hall/Peavey Plaza, but details about it are strangely absent online…. budget cuts perhaps?
  4. Sommerfest, July 18th-31st, Orchestra Hall, indoor and outdoor concerts abound with this festival.
  5. Aquatennial Block Party, July 17th, on Nicollet Mall, Free, www.aquatennial.com, The Gin Blossoms performing
  6. Minnesota Fringe Festival, through August 9th, various venues, Not technically a concert, but very definitely a unique performing arts festival.  www.fringefestival.org

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

{ 0 comments }

A Moroccan Feast!

by Sarah Novak on March 15, 2009

bastilla
I arrived in DC late Friday night and Nick treated me to a fun new cuisine I had never sampled before – Moroccan!  Wow.  What a feast!  We ate at Taste of Morocco in DC, one of the best know venues in town for that type of cuisine.  We each sampled a tasting menu for $25 a person consisting of 6courses:

  • Harrira or Lentil Soup
  • Royal Salad (a mix of 3 different cold salads – eggplant, carrot and cucumber)
  • Chicken Bastilla
  • Chicken and Lamb Tagine
  • Moroccan Mint Tea
  • Moroccan Pastries

I was simply blown away by the deliciousness of this cuisine.  I can’t remember liking something this much in a VERY long time.  The tastes were an interesting mixture of savory and sweet.  Particularly perplexing but OH SO FABULOUS was the Chicken Bastilla.  Pictured atop, this phyllo-pastry is stuffed with a marinated chicken, almonds, parsley and onions and topped with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.  I know it sounds disgusting, but the combination is HEAVENLY.  One of the most unique, memorable dishes I’ve tried in the last year.  The soup was my other favorite of the meal, followed by the Tagine.  Everything had this interesting mix of savory and sweet.  Bread had a unique sweet finish.  The Tagine had raisins with the lamb, etc. As if the food wasn’t delightful enough, we also were treated to a 30 minute Belly Dancing Show while we dined.  2 hours later we left with a full belly and a big smile on our faces.

Please try out some local Moroccan cuisine in your city.  For Minnesotans, your best options are Mairin’s Table and the Marrakesh Cafe in Minneapolis.  Expand your horizons and treat your tummy – all in one!  And don’t forget to order the Bastilla!

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

Feed My Starving Children

by Sarah Novak on February 26, 2009

fmsc_logo

This month I had the opportunity to do a night of service at Feed My Starving Children.  I had been there in the past, but forgotten what fantastic work they do.  This is yet another fabulous MN-based non-profit, founded by a businessman after he saw devasting hunger on a mission trip to Honduras.  The organization has grown to 4 sites in: Brooklyn Park, Eagan, Chanhassen and Chicago.  Each shift is an hour and a half long and will have anywhere from 50-90 volunteers.  There are two shifts per night, so it can easily fit into any schedule.  During the hour and a half you will pack meals for children in over 60 different countries.

What’s unique about FMSC is that the dry food mix was designed by scientists at Cargill and General Mills to meet the nutritional needs of a 4-8 year old malnourished child.  Each pack of food only needs to be mixed with water and contains 20 different vitamins and minerals to meet a child’s nutritional needs for one day.  This is a great date night or family activity as well – any kids over third grade can participate.  It’s very hands 0n- the time flies by!  Click here to sign-up for an upcoming volunteer shift!   They have a big goal of 70 million meals to pack in 2009!  Please consider helping them reach this goal.

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

Restaurant Week: March 1st-6th

by Sarah Novak on February 25, 2009

silverware

Okay folks.  It’s time to go out on the town for one of the best deals of the year!  Restaurant week is an annual event where local restaurateurs showcase their finest offerings at remarkably low prices.  Here’s how it works: Lunch fare will showcase 2 courses for either $10 or $20.  Dinner fare will showcase 3 courses for either $15 or $30.  Each restaurant has different menus and reservations MUST be made in advance at Open Table.  Click HERE to see participating restaurants and their featured menus.  These are definitely some of the hottest dining tickets in town, so please seriously consider having a fun night out!

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

Restaurant Review: Flame

by Sarah Novak on February 8, 2009

Photo by Star Tribune.com

Photo courtesy of Star Tribune.com

This is NOT your typical mall restaurant.  Located in Rosedale Mall on the upper level between AMC and Herberger’s, Flame changes it up a bit and surprises you with its trendy decor and reasonable prices.  I should know, I dined here on both Monday and Friday!  First thing to note: Happy Hour is Monday through Friday from 4-6 PM with $3 wines, $4 apps and beer specials too.  Thursday night is also ladies night, with drink specials for women. 

Now on to the important stuff.  The decor rocks- make sure and check out the bathrooms!  The fire all over gives it a warm, intimate feel.  If the Winter Carnival Vulcans were going to start a restaurant, this would be it!  The food spans a variety of categories: burgers, wraps, pasta, etc.  Their specialty is anything flame-grilled (duh!).  The skewers are top-notch, in addition to the chicken and 8 hour potroast.  Entrees were generally within the $9-16 range, making this a pocketbook-friendly night out as well!

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

Don't Delay… Get to the Brave New Workshop

by Sarah Novak on February 7, 2009

ist2_2736986-boy-meets-girl

Over the weekend I had the chance to visit the Brave New Workshop to see their show about dating, romance and everything in between.  I’ve a huge fan of the BNW and have seen 10-12 shows over the years.  This was hands-down the most side-splitting, relatable show I have seen yet.  The acting was spot on and I guarantee there will be at least one moment where you will shrink down in your seat a bit because you realize that the person onstage is portraying behavior you have exhibited in the past! 

As I mentioned before, the show is a series of 20-25 short skits.  Usually I like about 75% of them, but this time it was hard to pick one that didn’t hit the mark.  YOU MUST SEE THIS SHOW.  Couples, singles – it’s perfect for everyone (except maybe children) as there were quite a few slang terms and pictures of genitalia.  They’re still in previews right now, so you have plenty of time to see the show.  Click HERE to buy tickets!  When you go, make sure to watch for these superb skits:

1.  Match.com vs. Cupid
2.  The “Dream” Scene
3.  Love poem

Post Footer automatically generated by wp-posturl plugin for wordpress.

← Previous Entries