Let it snow!

There is a dusting of snow outside. Call Jim Foreman. It's sno-pocalypse! I do love looking outside and seeing the white stuff. Snow makes the long days of winter all worth it. My other favorite things about winter - Fur and Soup.

For a long time, I have been urged to put outfit combos on my blog. I'm still trying to figure out why. Yes, I have a closet room. Yes, I love dresses. But still, I feel insecure about what I wear. When I was in school, I wore uniforms. Our only self-expression was in our shoes. Otherwise, it was red-plaid jumpers, knee socks and green cardigans. When I was out of the uniform, I was a fashion challenged.  I did find my own style eventually - little bit rocker, little bit French, little bit hippie, little bit what's easy. I still love my mother for taking me to The Cramp on Broadway to buy me my first (and second pair) of Doc Martens. And yes, I wore those shoes all through out sorority life. And yes, I still have both pair.

So, here is me breaking out of my shell and posting my outfit for next Saturday. All of this is product of AllSaints. One of my favorite stores, its European fashion with the rock and roll edge. Plus, they have great draping. Rami from Project Runway would love it. I paired the Mures Sheepskin Jacket with the Elsbeth Dress in Grey. Combine will some chunky jewelry, tights and over-the-knee boots and you have "Anne-style."(Note: Z is running around in the background. He was excited about the outfit! Schnauzers are an optional accessory.)

On the cooking side, I am much more confident. First rule of the kitchen - cook books should be thrown away. I really hate recipes. I just like experimenting. Here is my "experimentation" for my newest soup. 

"Pan-Asian" Soup

* Ingredients * 

2 bundles mai fin noodles 

2 14.5 ounce cans of chicken broth

1 13.5 ounce can of light coconut milk

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 onion, sliced

2 tablespoons red pepper flakes

1/4 cup peanut butter

1 cup shitake mushrooms, sliced 

1/2 pound cooked shrimp, tails removed 

Sliced green onions 

Crushed peanuts

Pickled Ginger

* Instructions * 

1. Cook noodles by bringing water to a boil. Remove from heat and soak for 15 minutes. Set aside. 

2. Bring broth and coconut milk to boil. Add in onion and garlic. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. 

3. Add in peanut butter and red pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. 

4. Add in mushrooms and shrimp. Simmer for 5 minutes. 

5. Stir in noodles. 

6. Garnish with onions, peanuts and ginger.