It's OVER!! I'm a married woman!

Dear reader(s),

Well, I'm contemplating starting a new blog without having a hidden identity. This could be a fun adventure that will keep me on the straight and narrow sans whining. But, until then, this is my baby. My little pet project that allows me to vent. I may update my two to three readers and allow the hubby to join in on the fun. Perhaps it will be invite only - the options are endless and I have all the time in the world to explore!! I'll try and keep you posted.

So, what am I going to do now that I've had my big day, opened all of my shiny new kitchen appliances and dishes and have started the long journey down Thank You Lane??? I'm going to cook and read again, that's what!! And I'm very excited! I've had not a wink of time this past year to liven my spirits with a good, new recipe and truly enjoy it without a nagging sensation that I should be working on, oh, guest lists and seating charts, so now is the time!

It's freaking freezing and unseasonably so right now. We even had a winter-wonderland preview yesterday and it got me thinking that now is the time to delve into Comfort Food Land!! First on my list is dusting off the slow-cooker and filling it with a beautiful roast! Mmmmmm. No, I won't be using my new appliances for this baby, but I'm sure going to enjoy coming home to the smell of spicy meat and sweet carrots!

I did a little exploring on Food Networks website and decided on a Paula Dean slow cooker version that sounded delicious. Paula Dean knows comfort food after all. Here's the link if you're curious - I'm too lazy to write the recipe out for you, but I'll be sure to let you know of any modifications. I've already been scheming what to add and subtract.

Next on my list? My cousin - the Domestic Diva Trainee- has been chatting up pumpkin, well, EVERYTHING and all of a sudden I NEED it all!! She attempted some pumpkin cupcakes with great success and I am in dire need of these delicious little delicacies! I'll let you know about those too, however, seeing as I think she is my only reader - well... ;)

So, what else could I do to fill up my time (besides getting a very adorable puppy - please, Please, PLEASE hubby!!! Just one! And I promise I will take ever so wonderful care of her!!!). Well, I am creating my winter reading list and any and all recommendations are welcome. I love pretty much all books with exception of those trashy, romance books. Tasteful and fun, suspense, mystery, non-fiction - I'm ready!

Of course, some day I'm going to finish knitting that darn scarf I started about four years ago. I can wrap it around my neck, but just barely enough to tie it. It's my practice piece and it sports some scars and flaws. Now that my bestie from awkward teenage years has moved back with her wonderful husband and beautiful daughter, she can keep me motivated to finish.

It's not that I didn't love planning the wedding and I'm not saying that I'm not sad it's all over. I'm ready for the future! I'm ready for some relaxation! I'm ready to be a wifey!! Hooray!

So, until next time (and since it's the off-season that may be coming quite soon) send some positive thoughts my way and I'll send some cooking/reading/knitting feedback your way!!

Love and all that good stuff,
Gidge