Girls Girls Girls

Yesterday was Prez's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY PREZ!

Prez and I have big birthday plans that didn't include going out last night, but then we found out our friend Fear-of-Fish was going to be in town. This was a big deal because Fish is hardly ever in the country, let alone in San Diego. In fact, just last week Fish was in the Phillippines! And since she's missing our big birthday bash, Prez thought we should get together for a little birthday celebrating last night.

We went to Piatti, which both Prez and I love. Because we both have great taste. But I don't see Fish very often. In fact, I haven't seen her in a couple of years I think...we tried to figure that out last night. And while Prez is used to me busting my camera out while we eat, I didn't know how Fish would deal with it. So no pictures. Instead, I'll illustrate.

But I'm not a good draw-er. So bear with me.

First we spent a lot of time pouring over the menu.

Then our wine showed up.

And we talked about television shows. Since Fish is one of the few people I know who watches as much television as I do. And most of the same shows. In fact - Fish and I used to barricade ourselves in the sorority tv room so we could watch Buffy together. Yeah, we go way back.

Then we dished the dirt about our mutual friends.

Then Fish filled us in on her most recent travels.

And then the food came and there was no talking.

Then there was more talking. A lot more talking. And then Thatboy called, asking if I knew it was 10pm - and didn't I have to work the next day? So we headed back to Prez's place for some cupcakes.

And then Fish realized she still had to drive waaaaaaaaaaaaay back to her hotel. So we called it a night.

The end.


Poor Thatboy was stuck at home by himself, to fend. He's got more of that ahead of him. Usually I like to leave him with something that is easily heat-up-able. Like lasagna. Or soup. Things that he can put in the microwave. We both love split pea soup- but much like me not being a good draw-er, I'm not very good at making split pea soup look appetizing. So this is another one you'll have to take my word for. It's good. Really good. Good enough to keep Thatboy from making a Taco Bell run last night.

Split Pea Soup (From the Fannie Farmer Cookbook)
1 1/2 cups dried split peas
2 inch cube salt pork
1 onion, chopped
3 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp flour
2 cups milk
salt
ground pepper

1. Soak the peas overnight in water to cover.
2. Add enough water to the soaking liquid to make 2 1/2 quarts.
3. Put the peas and liquid in a large soup pot and the salt pork and onion.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered for 1 1/2 -2 hours or until the peas are soft. Discard the salt pork
5. Put through a strainer or vegetable mill or puree the soup in a blender or food processor. Melt the butter in a small saucepan, stir in the flour, and cook over low heat for a few minutes.
6. Add the milk, stirring constantly, and cook until smooth and thickened. Stir this sauce into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste.