jmcguire's blog

I'm relaxed and rejuvenated after an absolutely lovely weekend in Tahoe, CA.  The rocky peaks in contrast to the sparkling waterfalls and lake actually reminded me a little of the Hawaiian mountains and ocean.  I was excited to show Lloyd, but my camera did no justice to the scenery.  I've officially decided to start looking for an upgrade.

Many of my lunches are dictated by the spare ingredients we have in the fridge.  Today, there was close to a full head of chopped cabbage leftover from garnish for tacos we made the other day.  So I sautéed it with sesame oil, salt, pepper...and voila...a big plate of cabbage.  That certainly wasn't going to suffice, so I tore open a pouched lemon pepper tuna steak, heated it through, and all of a sudden, had a meal.  Super easy and nutritious.

Just as I was saying I missed my family two weeks ago on my birthday, I found out I would be taking a last-minute trip to my home state of Texas for work.  The Legislature is considering an unsettling bill that would require warning signs by fish in grocery stores, so I flew in to give testimony about my concerns.  I got pressed on the health benefits of seafood, especially during pregnancy, and gave the best science-based answers I could.  It was my first experience with state government, and I soaked every minute up like a sponge.  Policy is

Today is too busy.  I booked a last minute flight to Texas (leaving tomorrow!) for a work trip that popped up, and tonight we're having company for a belated birthday/Cinco de Mayo party.  Everyone is bringing their favorite Mexican treats to share - delicioso!

I am home in Hawaii after a couple hiccups along the way.  My cell phone broke and my checked luggage went missing.  But now I am back up and running - I have my home phone to tide me over until I get a new cell phone, and my luggage was found and delivered right to my door.

This week I'm lucky to be staying with two sets of good friends here in Washington, DC.  I'm very grateful for their hospitality and really enjoy the chance to catch up.  Not surprisingly, my appreciation manifests in food!  Monday night I took the first couple I stayed with to dinner at Olazzo in downtown Bethesda.  I chose the linguine with clams and white wine sauce.  It was the perfect light meal for a warm spring night. 

Who would have ever thought that my trip back to Washington, DC this week for work would require more summery clothes than I am used to wearing in Hawaii?  It is smoking hot and sunny in the city and I'm loving it while it lasts.  Thunderstorms are expected started Wednesday through Saturday when I leave.  But sunshine awaits me back in Hawaii!