Anticipation

Today I go back to school for my third class in the sustainability certificate program. I have a morning meeting time in the sociology department this time around, which is a nice change from the evening courses that often left me feeling exhausted at the end of the day. I got my grades back from winter quarter and overall am pleased -- an A in the urban planning course and a B+ in economics. I think I'd normally be a little disappointed with a B+, but given my struggle to keep my head above water (due to my utter lack of economics prerequisites), the grade seems just about right. So, moving on.

While I'm excited to start my class this morning, the real treat is waiting for me on the hold shelf at the public library. A couple of weeks ago, I stumbled on a recipe for roasted chicken with caramelized shallots that was adapted from this cookbook. The chicken not only looks incredibly tasty, but is also a simple one-dish operation that you just stick in the oven. As many of you know, I love just about anything that can be roasted or braised for hours, so it's almost guaranteed to be a hit.

After sifting through the table of contents online at Amazon, I realized that it's been ages since I perused the cookbook section at the library. I feel truly spoiled that we have such a great public library system here in Portland and really should start taking advantage of it again. So, I went online and reserved the book (and then completely forgot about it). This morning in my email inbox I had a little reminder to come and pick it up! I can't wait to swing by the library on my way home from class and carefully select which meal I'm going to make first. I may also have to make a trip up to the second floor where all the other cookbooks live. I'm trying to create an arsenal of delicious, but not very complicated recipes that I can turn to once the baby arrives -- I have a feeling that cooking elaborate meals will not be on the agenda once mid-August rolls around.

The French Farmhouse Cookbook is perfect for this weather, since it's been terribly cold and rainy for the past few days. A simple hearty soup or roast chicken dish is just what we need to stay warm!