<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<?xml-stylesheet type="text/xsl" media="screen" href="/~d/styles/rss2full.xsl"?><?xml-stylesheet type="text/css" media="screen" href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~d/styles/itemcontent.css"?><rss xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" version="2.0">

<channel>
	<title>eating bender</title>
	
	<link>http://www.eatingbender.com</link>
	<description>a voracious appetite for food, writing &amp; life</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 14:03:21 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2</generator>
		<atom10:link xmlns:atom10="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/eatingbender/WMOm" /><feedburner:info xmlns:feedburner="http://rssnamespace.org/feedburner/ext/1.0" uri="eatingbender/wmom" /><atom10:link xmlns:atom10="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" rel="hub" href="http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com/" /><item>
		<title>It Takes Two To Tango Sur</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 23:40:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dinner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birthday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BYOB]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chicago BYOB]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurant Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tango Sur]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16239</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Pretty much anyone you ask who has been to Tango Sur raves about the food and laments over the long waits (&#8220;but it&#8217;s worth it!&#8221;). An Argentinian BYOB known throughout Chicago, people come from all over the city at all hours of the weekend to try their amazing dishes &#8211; and drink plenty of wine. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Pretty much anyone you ask who has been to <a href="http://folklorechicago.com/tangosur/index.html" target="_blank">Tango Sur</a> raves about the food and laments over the long waits (&#8220;but it&#8217;s worth it!&#8221;). An Argentinian BYOB <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/tango-sur-chicago" target="_blank">known throughout Chicago</a>, people come from all over the city at all hours of the weekend to try their amazing dishes &#8211; and drink plenty of wine.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/tango-sur/" rel="attachment wp-att-16273"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16273" title="Tango (Sur)" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/TangoSur-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vxla/6159259465/sizes/z/in/photostream/" target="_blank">Source</a></p>
<p>Last week, I asked a group of Tango Sur veterans to come with Bobby and me and made a &#8211; gasp &#8211; reservation! It&#8217;s something you can only do when there are six people or more. Otherwise, it could be up to three hours before you get seated. We all showed up just in time for our 7:00 p.m. slot.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16272" title="DSCN1803" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1803-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Clockwise: Bobby, me, Kelli, Jill, Andrew, Lauren, Kyle and Alex</p>
<p>We got the meal off to the right start by opening a couple bottles of red wine to share.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1787/" rel="attachment wp-att-16264"><img class="wp-image-16264 aligncenter" title="DSCN1787" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1787-600x449.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="449" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://pursuingourpassion.com/" target="_blank">Jill</a> also recommended we start with the Provoleta, an appetizer of Argentine provolone cheese cooked on the grill with olive oil and roasted peppers. It&#8217;s served with unlimited amounts of bread and tasted amazing &#8211; warm and, well, <em>cheesy</em>, with a bit of kick from the red peppers.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1788/" rel="attachment wp-att-16265"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16265" title="DSCN1788" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1788-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Another appetizer recommendation courtesy of <a href="http://lesmeilleureschoses.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Alex</a> were the empanadas. We all shared one of each flavor: lamb, beef, chicken, ham with cheese and spinach with cheese. These were great! I was able to try the beef, chicken and spinach with cheese. The latter was my favorite, but they all had a deliciously flaky crust and flavorful middle.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1789/" rel="attachment wp-att-16266"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16266" title="DSCN1789" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1789-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>For our entree, Jill and I shared the Lomo, a filet mignon cooked on the grill and served with salad.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1790/" rel="attachment wp-att-16267"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16267" title="DSCN1790" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1790-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Unfortunately I couldn&#8217;t get my pictures of the Lomo to turn out, but it was perfect. A little undercooked for me &#8211; I&#8217;m a crazy medium-well girl &#8211; but I saved a portion for leftovers the next day. With a little extra cooking time, it was easily one of the best steaks I&#8217;ve had.</p>
<p>I did, however, get a picture of Alex&#8217;s dish, the Bife Vesuvio, a grilled (range grown) prime steak sliced and filled with spinach, mar del plata cheese and garlic in a white wine sauce, served with Argentine style potatoes. These were the same potatoes that were served with my dish.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1793/" rel="attachment wp-att-16268"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16268" title="DSCN1793" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1793-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Our stomachs were content, to say the least. Jill was kind enough to bring champagne for my birthday, so we all shared in a glass of bubbly to wash down our fantastic meal.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1800/" rel="attachment wp-att-16270"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16270" title="DSCN1800" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1800-449x600.jpg" alt="" width="449" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Then they surprised me by telling the waiter it was my birthday! It was a great serenade, as evidenced by the cheesy grin captured by Lauren. Love Bobby&#8217;s expression in the background. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/img_0532/" rel="attachment wp-att-16274"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16274" title="IMG_0532" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0532-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>The flan they brought out was the icing on the cake, so to speak.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1799/" rel="attachment wp-att-16269"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16269" title="DSCN1799" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1799-600x449.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="449" /></a></p>
<p>We had a great time, and now Bobby and I can officially say we&#8217;re Tango Sur veterans, too.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/dscn1801/" rel="attachment wp-att-16271"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16271" title="DSCN1801" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1801-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>We&#8217;re already excited to go back again! The atmosphere is dark and cozy, which would make it perfect for a date night. Not to mention there are still so many great dishes we need to try!</p>
<p><em><strong>Have you ever been to a BYOB &#8211; or Tango Sur, for that matter? If so, what did you think?</strong></em></p>
<p><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/14/it-takes-two-to-tango-sur/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>17</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Mama B.</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/13/mama-b/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/13/mama-b/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 13 May 2012 23:15:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mama Bender]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mother's Day]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16241</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Happy Mother&#8217;s Day! I love any time I get to spend with my mom. This time of year is extra special because I was born on the Saturday before Mother&#8217;s Day, and sometimes my birthday even falls on the holiday. It makes it doubly fun to celebrate when my mom is the reason I&#8217;m here [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Happy Mother&#8217;s Day!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/13/mama-b/img_0534/" rel="attachment wp-att-16242"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16242" title="IMG_0534" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0534-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>I love any time I get to spend with my mom. This time of year is extra special because I was born on the Saturday before Mother&#8217;s Day, and sometimes my birthday even falls on the holiday. It makes it doubly fun to celebrate when my mom is the reason I&#8217;m here in the first place. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' />  (Bonus: My brother&#8217;s birthday falls on Father&#8217;s Day this year, so they will have a father-son, moment, too!)</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Today is less about the meals and more about the mama.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/13/mama-b/jk_with-mom-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-16244"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16244" title="JK_With Mom" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/JK_With-Mom1-600x408.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="408" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Our hair colors have changed over the years. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Mama Bender has taught me so much. She is the perfect example of a mother who is always going above and beyond for her kids. Whether it was helping to plan school parties or planning a picture-perfect <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/wedding/" target="_blank">wedding</a>, taking me out to the driving range or winning our fair share of mother-daughter golf <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/" target="_blank">tournaments</a>, she has always inspired us to excel while above all being kind to others and treating every individual with the respect that they deserve.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Mama B exemplifies what it means to live with ambition, passion, spirit and love. Her values of honesty and integrity, of courage and generosity, are ones that I have embraced and can only hope to carry out with a quarter of her grace and fortitude.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As I grow older, I continue to be amazed and impressed by just how much she does for all of us. Of course, she&#8217;ll claim she hasn&#8217;t done enough, or that she could do more, but I think everyone who knows her would agree that her effort goes far beyond any normal expectations. She truly puts the &#8220;extra&#8221; in extraordinary with every project she undertakes and every goal she sets out to achieve.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Happy Mother&#8217;s Day, Mama B. I love you very much and am so grateful for the memories we continue to make together as mother and daughter. Thank you for the excellent birthday present.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And a very happy Mother&#8217;s Day to all the moms out there! <em><strong>What are you doing to celebrate?</strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/13/mama-b/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>10</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>A Quarter Century</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 19:42:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dinner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pizza]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[POP phone]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16218</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Yesterday was an excellent day. I turned 25 and my phone turned back time. That, my friends, is a POP phone &#8211; very business appropriate. I first came across it in a SELF Magazine fashion spread with Emmy Rossum. Basically, you attach it to your cell phone or anything with a headset plug in and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Yesterday was an excellent day. I turned 25 and my phone turned back time.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/img_0523/" rel="attachment wp-att-16223"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16223" title="IMG_0523" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0523-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>That, my friends, is a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Native-Handset-iPhone-Android-Phones/dp/B003DKL4JA" target="_blank">POP phone</a> &#8211; very <a href="http://www.popsocialmedia.com/" target="_blank">business appropriate</a>. I first came across it in a <a href="http://www.self.com/beauty/2012/02/emmy-rossum-wears-the-best-slideshow?slide=2#slide=8" target="_blank"><em>SELF Magazine</em> fashion spread with Emmy Rossum</a>. Basically, you attach it to your cell phone or anything with a headset plug in and are then able to hear out of it and talk into it. I am nothing if not nostalgic for retro technology (<a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/02/15/true-food-kitchen-telephone/" target="_blank">remember my Clueless phone?</a>) so naturally, I LOVED it.</p>
<p>The ever-awesome <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/07/18/samslam/" target="_blank">Sam</a> decided it would make a great birthday gift. Thank you, Sam! I&#8217;ve already been using it on my calls today and can&#8217;t help but smile wondering what people would think if they saw me walking down the street with it. Only a matter of time.</p>
<p>I also went on a birthday run. The weather was gorgeous, one of those days where it&#8217;s a bit chilly but the sun is shining and warm. Spring and fall are my favorite seasons in Chicago. Summer is great, but humidity-free heat is better.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/img_0522/" rel="attachment wp-att-16222"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16222" title="IMG_0522" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0522-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>When I got back, Bobby surprised me with an amazing card and gift, plus plans for a delicious dinner. Our beloved pizza was on the menu. The usual: chicken sausage, spinach, red pepper, mushroom and CHEESE.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/dsc_0024-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-16220"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16220" title="DSC_0024" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_00241-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p>It was extra delicious on a Wednesday night.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/dsc_0030/" rel="attachment wp-att-16221"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16221" title="DSC_0030" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0030-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p>Especially when we decided to pair it with some wine: <a href="http://www.wine.com/v6/wineshop/Detail.aspx?product_id=111267&amp;state=IL" target="_blank">Columbia Crest H3 Merlot</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/dsc_0020-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-16219"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16219" title="DSC_0020" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_00201-398x600.jpg" alt="" width="398" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>We also watched several episodes of <a href="http://www.cbs.com/shows/how_i_met_your_mother/" target="_blank">How I Met Your Mother</a>. It was a very relaxing way to celebrate a quarter of a century. I don&#8217;t really feel much older, but it&#8217;s still fun to say. I&#8217;m not sure what the next year will bring. Perhaps I&#8217;ll make a <a href="http://pursuingourpassion.com/2010/05/07/23-in-23/" target="_blank">25 in 25 list</a> and see what happens. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>The weekend is almost here! <em><strong>What are your plans?</strong></em></p>
<p><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/10/a-quarter-century/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>38</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Book Review: Insurgent by Veronica Roth</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/07/book-review-insurgent-by-veronica-roth/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/07/book-review-insurgent-by-veronica-roth/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2012 02:06:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[book review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Divergent Trilogy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Insurgent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Veronica Roth]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16188</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I&#8217;m so excited to talk about Insurgent! You may recall my review of Divergent a few months ago woah, way back in September? Honestly, where does time GO? Anyway, this is the next installment of Veronica Roth&#8217;s trilogy, and when it was released on May 1, I couldn&#8217;t wait to get my hands on it. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>I&#8217;m so excited to talk about <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Insurgent-Divergent-Trilogy-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062024043" target="_blank">Insurgent</a>! You may recall <a href="http://eatingbender.com/2011/09/02/book-review-divergent-by-veronica-roth/" target="_blank">my review of Divergent</a> <del>a few months ago</del> woah, way back in September? Honestly, where does time GO?</p>
<p>Anyway, this is the next installment of <a href="http://veronicarothbooks.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Veronica Roth&#8217;s</a> trilogy, and when it was released on May 1, I couldn&#8217;t wait to get my hands on it. Big thanks to Bobby for making that possible. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/07/book-review-insurgent-by-veronica-roth/insurgent/" rel="attachment wp-att-16189"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16189" title="Insurgent" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Insurgent-396x600.jpg" alt="" width="396" height="600" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3N6OvRMhZ8/TnR04WVF3QI/AAAAAAAAAtM/oHTGOO2KVYI/s1600/314772_281427445217498_151780294848881_1152897_737238917_n.jpg" target="_blank">Source</a></p>
<p>Insurgent picks up right where Divergent left off. In fact, there is very little &#8220;recap&#8221; like what you might find in other book series where they try to rope the brand new reader in by explaining what happened in book one in the opening pages. I really respected Veronica Roth&#8217;s decision to leave this part out. Of course, there are plenty of details from the first book woven into the second, but by not having a full-blown summary, the reader is able to jump right into the action.</p>
<p>I won&#8217;t go into too many details about plot, especially for those of you who haven&#8217;t read Divergent yet. But I will say that I think Insurgent was right on par with Divergent in terms of how much I enjoyed it, and even stronger in terms of the writing and overall story.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>In Short</strong></span></p>
<p>In short, why haven&#8217;t you read Divergent yet? <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' />  Only kidding, of course, but I do highly recommend starting with book one before picking up a copy of Insurgent. As I mentioned in <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/09/02/book-review-divergent-by-veronica-roth/" target="_blank">my last review</a>, this is essentially a dystopian series (think: Hunger Games) that takes place far into the future.</p>
<p>And not just any future&#8230;a Chicago future! Insurgent has a lot more detail with regard to Chicago landmarks. I could picture where everything was in relation to the Sears Tower, Merchandise Mart and Millennium Park. Granted, most of them are described as hollowed out versions of what they are in the present, but it was cool to feel like I could imagine the scene, the weather and everything else that is familiar because I call it home.</p>
<p>As is the case with the first book, there is plenty of action, drama and jaw-dropping revelations. Plus, the romantic storyline continues &#8211; <em>without</em> a love triangle! &#8211; which is always fun.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>The Details</strong></span></p>
<p>One of the things I think Veronica Roth does best in her second book is her character development. We learn an amazing amount of new and important facts about the main characters that impact the choices they make and their interaction with others. This is especially true in the character of Tobias (Four), but also exemplified through the protagonist, Tris.</p>
<p>After enduring quite a lot more than the average 16-year-old in book one, Tris has even more to grapple with. The problems are now much bigger than her &#8211; they impact the society as a whole and cause her to question everything she&#8217;s grown up knowing and believing in. I think Veronica Roth does a fantastic job of showcasing Tris&#8217; internal struggle. She matures a lot in this book.</p>
<p>What&#8217;s interesting to me &#8211; without making too many comparisons &#8211; is how she is seen compared to someone like Katniss in the Hunger Games. After the first book, Katniss essentially becomes a celebrity, and the people around her use that celebrity to their advantage.</p>
<p>In Tris&#8217; case, she did some very brave things in book one, but in the grand scheme of things she is not really seen as the &#8220;leader&#8221; among rebels. She&#8217;s important to us, the reader, because the story is told from her perspective. She&#8217;s certainly important to a number of other central characters in the book (Tobias aka Four comes to mind first). But she doesn&#8217;t really command the awe and admiration of an entire population. At least, not yet. Which is why it makes it even more awesome that by the end of Insurgent, she has made quite a name for herself &#8211; literally. That&#8217;s all I will say, other than that I have no doubt that her growing notoriety will be a theme that carries over into book three.</p>
<p>Veronica Roth&#8217;s attention to detail is also a huge reason why I love these books. Her writing style gets to the point quick, but in doing so unearths a slew of interesting information, not to mention a wildly creative world that actually seems possible. Nothing is too crazy or unrealistic. And the big reveal at the end of the novel will have you sitting on the edge of your seat and sad that you have to wait at least another year (or more) to find out what comes next.</p>
<p>Have I convinced you yet?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Insurgent-Divergent-Trilogy-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062024043" target="_blank">These Amazon reviews</a> say it all. Divergent was good. Insurgent was AWESOME!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">***</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><em><strong>Have you read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Divergent-Trilogy-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062024035/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1336442636&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank">Divergent</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Insurgent-Divergent-Trilogy-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062024043" target="_blank">Insurgent</a> yet? If so, what did you think?</strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Last but not least, the winner of the <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/" target="_blank">LUNA Fiber Bar giveaway</a> is <a href="http://fittingitallinblog.com/" target="_blank">Clare</a>!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/07/book-review-insurgent-by-veronica-roth/clare_giveaway-winner/" rel="attachment wp-att-16194"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16194" title="Clare_Giveaway Winner" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Clare_Giveaway-Winner-600x120.png" alt="" width="600" height="120" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Congrats, Clare! Send your mailing address to me at <a href="mailto:eatingbender@gmail.com" target="_blank">eatingbender@gmail.com</a>!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/07/book-review-insurgent-by-veronica-roth/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>15</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Early Birdies + Birthdays</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 02:37:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dinner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Birdies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chick Evans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Enzo & Lucia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[golf]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grilled Calamari]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Minestrone Soup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Santa Julia Malbec]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Seafood Risotto]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tiramisu]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16141</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What a whirlwind weekend it has been! Nonstop action, but all good things. It started with a birthday golf match! Technically I turn 25 on Wednesday, May 9, but Bobby treated me to an awesome early bird present with a tee time on the Chick Evans course Saturday afternoon. We even returned to the scene [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>What a whirlwind weekend it has been! Nonstop action, but all good things.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1771/" rel="attachment wp-att-16142"><img class="size-large wp-image-16142 aligncenter" title="DSCN1771" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1771-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>It started with a birthday golf match! Technically I turn 25 on Wednesday, May 9, but Bobby treated me to an awesome early bird present with a tee time on the <a href="http://www.forestpreservegolf.com/Chick-Evans-Golf-Course.html" target="_blank">Chick Evans</a> course Saturday afternoon. We even returned to the scene of his proposal, <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2009/05/06/if-you-like-it-then/" target="_blank">three years ago today</a>!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/img_0505/" rel="attachment wp-att-16150"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16150" title="IMG_0505" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0505-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Though it was cloudy, it was perfect weather for golf and we really enjoyed ourselves. I ended up victorious over Bobby, 85 to 88. Still coming down from the <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/" target="_blank">tournament high</a>, perhaps, but it was a very contentious battle. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/img_0511/" rel="attachment wp-att-16151"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16151" title="IMG_0511" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0511-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a>After our round, we headed further into the suburbs for dinner at <a href="http://www.enzoandlucia.com/" target="_blank">Enzo &amp; Lucia</a>, an Italian restaurant that our friend <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/12/18/the-birthday-girl-named-lauren/" target="_blank">Lauren</a> gave us a gift certificate to for our wedding. Yes, we&#8217;ve waited quite a while to use it! Last night was the night.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/enzolucia/" rel="attachment wp-att-16152"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16152" title="EnzoLucia" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/EnzoLucia-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Enzo-Lucia-Ristorante-Italiano/116951311669646" target="_blank">Source</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The restaurant is situated in an old house in <a href="http://www.longgroveonline.com/" target="_blank">historic Long Grove</a>, the same downtown where the <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2010/10/04/pinch-me-im-applehappy/" target="_blank">apple</a> and <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/06/29/red-red-strawberry-wine/" target="_blank">strawberry festivals</a> are held. We started out with a bottle of vino: <a href="http://www.santajulia.com.ar/winery.php" target="_blank">Santa Julia Malbec</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1773/" rel="attachment wp-att-16143"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16143" title="DSCN1773" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1773-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It was amazing &#8211; and made with organic grapes, says the label.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1776/" rel="attachment wp-att-16144"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16144" title="DSCN1776" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1776-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">We decided on the calamari appetizer to start. They surprised us by having either a grilled or fried option &#8211; most places I&#8217;ve been to either have one or the other, and usually it&#8217;s fried. We decided to go with the grilled and were not disappointed! Some of the best calamari I&#8217;ve ever had.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1778/" rel="attachment wp-att-16145"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16145" title="DSCN1778" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1778-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">For dinner, I chose the minestrone soup&#8230;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1780/" rel="attachment wp-att-16146"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16146" title="DSCN1780" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1780-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&#8230;and a seafood risotto. This was made with arborio rice and tomato sauce. Packed with shrimp, clams, scallops and more grilled calamari, it was a definite win. Bobby even preferred it over his meat dish. Luckily, there was plenty to spare. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1781/" rel="attachment wp-att-16147"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16147" title="DSCN1781" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1781-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Then came dessert &#8211; and a birthday serenade!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1785/" rel="attachment wp-att-16149"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16149" title="DSCN1785" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1785-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I made a wish and split the tiramisu with my amazing husband. It was a sweet way to end the night.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/dscn1784/" rel="attachment wp-att-16148"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16148" title="DSCN1784" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1784-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Big thanks again to Lauren for the wonderful gift!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">In other weekend news, I finished <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Insurgent-Divergent-Trilogy-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062024043" target="_blank">Insurgent</a>. Review to come soon, but let&#8217;s just say that I didn&#8217;t want it to end. It had just as much action and plot as <a href="http://eatingbender.com/2011/09/02/book-review-divergent-by-veronica-roth/" target="_blank">Divergent</a>, and I can&#8217;t wait for book three.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/img_0491/" rel="attachment wp-att-16153"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16153" title="IMG_0491" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0491-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I also managed to complete my first-ever <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/my-newest-fitness-goal/" target="_blank">11-mile training run</a> today! Granted, it was a bit&#8230;unique. I started out at 11:30 a.m. knowing that storms were planning to come through at 1:00. About 45 minutes in I realized the storm had decided to come early thanks to a huge thunder clap. I decided to run home and finish my last 4.5 miles on the treadmill, but not before I got thoroughly soaked.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Though I was sopping wet, it was invigorating! I&#8217;d choose a bit of rain over hot sun and humidity on race day, that&#8217;s for sure. We&#8217;ll have to see what June 10 holds for Chicago.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;"><em><strong>How was your weekend? What did you do?</strong></em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Here comes Monday!!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/06/early-birdies-birthdays/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>21</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Two Someone Specials Turn One!</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 May 2012 05:10:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aunt Jenn]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Caroline and Kelly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[First Birthday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nieces Pieces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twinthusiasm]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncle Bobby]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16084</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This aunt can&#8217;t believe that two of her nieces pieces are turning one. It seems like just yesterday Uncle Bobby and I were meeting Caroline and Kelly for the first time. They were so little! We had an amazing time with the girls back in July, and I was delighted to have the chance to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>This aunt can&#8217;t believe that two of her <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/?s=%22nieces+pieces%22" target="_blank">nieces pieces</a> are turning one. It seems like just yesterday Uncle Bobby and I were meeting Caroline and Kelly <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/07/05/nieces-pieces-uncle-bobby-and-aunt-jenn/" target="_blank">for the first time</a>. They were so little!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dscn8991/" rel="attachment wp-att-16085"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16085" title="DSCN8991" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN8991-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>We had an amazing time with the girls <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/07/05/nieces-pieces-uncle-bobby-and-aunt-jenn/" target="_blank">back in July</a>, and I was delighted to have the chance to see Caroline and Kelly again when I found out I would be attending <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/08/12/sandy-eggo/" target="_blank">the BlogHer Conference in August</a>. This picture remains one of my very favorites of the two of them &#8211; I love their expressions.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dscn9345-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-16087"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16087" title="DSCN9345" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN9345-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://pursuingourpassion.com/" target="_blank">Jill</a> was with me on that trip, and she fell under their spell, too. It&#8217;s very easy to do. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dscn9276/" rel="attachment wp-att-16086"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16086" title="DSCN9276" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN9276-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Throughout the rest of the year, Uncle Bobby and I continued to watch the girls grow on <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/" target="_blank">Cara&#8217;s amazing blog</a>. We witnessed <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/2011/09/10/baby-lab-weekend-experiments/" target="_blank">baby lab experiments</a>, <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/2011/10/22/party-at-the-patch/" target="_blank">parties at the pumpkin patch</a> and <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/2011/10/15/the-joy-of-winter-hats/" target="_blank">the joy of winter hats</a>, among other things. Both <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/" target="_blank">Cara</a> and <a href="http://munchkrennland.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Susan</a> might not realize this, but seeing their posts pop into our inbox brightens our weeks. Just ask the many friends and family members who I&#8217;ve forwarded the emails to and declared, &#8220;Aren&#8217;t they just the cutest?!&#8221;</p>
<p>We had the chance to try our own baby lab experiments <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/11/26/thanksgiving-a-very-special-visit/" target="_blank">over Thanksgiving</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dscn0015/" rel="attachment wp-att-16090"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16090" title="DSCN0015" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN0015-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>I&#8217;d say it was a success. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' />  And Bobby had a lot of fun with the girls on <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/2012/01/04/we-are-eight-months/" target="_blank">New Year&#8217;s Eve</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dsc07235/" rel="attachment wp-att-16091"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16091" title="DSC07235" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC07235-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Of course, the fun only grew from there. Our <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/10/the-nieces-pieces-triplets-edition/" target="_blank">Easter</a> <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/11/the-nieces-pieces-egg-stravaganza/" target="_blank">weekend</a> gave us the chance to see all three nieces interacting together, and it was such a treat. Watching the girls crawl all over the place, destroy cup towers and say, &#8220;Bobby!&#8221; (Kelly) are memories we will be smiling about forever.</p>
<p>So Caroline&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dscn1403/" rel="attachment wp-att-16094"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16094" title="DSCN1403" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1403-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Kelly&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/dscn1429/" rel="attachment wp-att-16095"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16095" title="DSCN1429" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSCN1429-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Happy first birthday to two of the sweetest girls we know. Uncle Bobby and I are so lucky to have you in our lives. We wish we could be there in person to celebrate with you, but please know we are there in spirit. And likely making these faces, which happen to be from a photo taken while at the airport in April, awaiting the plane that would take us to see you and your cousin.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/img_0285/" rel="attachment wp-att-16092"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-16092" title="IMG_0285" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_0285.jpg" alt="" width="427" height="427" /></a></p>
<p>If you can&#8217;t tell, we love you very, very much.</p>
<p>I leave you with one of Uncle Bobby and your dad&#8217;s favorite traditions: the epic Krenn soccer battle. The inaugural game was held in July 2011, complete with a move called the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Snuffleupagus" target="_blank">Snuffleupagus</a>.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/K3L_pzA7PCc" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p>And then, in April 2012, the girls were back for round two. Much training and heightening of kicking skills was involved. But who would come out victorious?</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8KQrX4eZfmU" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p>We can&#8217;t wait for the next match. Cheers, hugs and kisses for an exciting year two.</p>
<p>Check out cousin Claire&#8217;s <a href="http://munchkrennland.wordpress.com/2012/05/03/happy-birthday-cousins/" target="_blank">birthday tribute post here</a>!</p>
<p><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p>(Aunt)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/04/two-someone-specials-turn-one/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>8</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>LUNA Fiber Bars {Giveaway}</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2012 19:45:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Giveaways]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Clif Bar & Company]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[giveaway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LUNA Bar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LUNA Fiber Bars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Product Review]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16052</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When the team at LUNA contacted me about their new Fiber bars, I couldn&#8217;t wait to try them. I&#8217;m a big fan of Clif Bars and have enjoyed many of the LUNA flavors in the past, as well, so I was intrigued when I heard the newest varieties were called chocolate raspberry, peanut butter strawberry [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>When the team at <a href="http://www.lunabar.com/" target="_blank">LUNA</a> contacted me about their new <a href="http://www.lunabar.com/products/fiber/" target="_blank">Fiber bars</a>, I couldn&#8217;t wait to try them. I&#8217;m a big fan of <a href="http://www.clifbar.com/" target="_blank">Clif Bars</a> and have enjoyed many of the LUNA flavors in the past, as well, so I was intrigued when I heard the newest varieties were called chocolate raspberry, peanut butter strawberry and vanilla blueberry. Sounds pretty delicious, if you ask me.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0010-6/" rel="attachment wp-att-16053"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16053" title="DSC_0010" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0010-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p>LUNA Fiber bars are soft-baked, fruit-filled, and offer 7 grams of &#8211; did you guess it? &#8211; fiber. They range from 110-120 calories and contain a &#8216;Core 4&#8242; combination of calcium, iron, folic acid, and vitamin D. The bars are <a href="http://lunabar.com/nutrition/articles/why_organic_matters/" target="_blank">70% organic</a>, which is a bit vague to me, but Clif Bar &amp; Company is committed to sourcing ingredients that are not genetically engineered in all of their products, to which I give a big thumbs up.</p>
<p>So&#8230;how did they taste?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0012-4/" rel="attachment wp-att-16055"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16055" title="DSC_0012" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0012-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Peanut Butter Strawberry</strong></span></p>
<p>This flavor was my favorite &#8211; it is amazingly delicious and tastes just like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in bar form. The softness of the bar made the outside taste cookie-like, and you know anything is good when they can make it taste like a peanut butter cookie.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0018/" rel="attachment wp-att-16057"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16057" title="DSC_0018" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0018-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p>The strawberry filling was gooey and just the right amount of sweet. These bars have 120 calories.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0011-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-16054"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16054" title="DSC_0011" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0011-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Vanilla Blueberry</strong></span></p>
<p>This was the second flavor I tried. It was my least favorite of the bunch but I still enjoyed it. It was compared to a blueberry crepe in the marketing materials, and I think that&#8217;s pretty spot on.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0020/" rel="attachment wp-att-16058"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16058" title="DSC_0020" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0020-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p>Overall, I think it was the vanilla flavor that I didn&#8217;t care for as much as the others, but I did enjoy the sweetness of the blueberries and would not be opposed to having it again &#8211; as long as there were no peanut butter strawberry bars left. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' />  This one has 110 calories.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0014/" rel="attachment wp-att-16056"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16056" title="DSC_0014" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0014-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Chocolate Raspberry</strong></span></p>
<p>This was the last flavor variety I tested and a close second to the peanut butter strawberry. I was surprised because I usually don&#8217;t like the smell of chocolate and raspberry together &#8211; such as in soaps and lotions &#8211; but I <em>really</em> liked the taste combination. Then I realized what it reminded me of: the <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/?s=%22nutz+over+raspberries%22" target="_blank">TJ&#8217;s Nutz Over Raspberries and Chocolate Trail Mix</a> that I devoured in college!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/dsc_0024/" rel="attachment wp-att-16059"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16059" title="DSC_0024" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_0024-600x398.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="398" /></a></p>
<p>The outside of the bar was like a dark chocolate cookie, and the raspberry filling was drool worthy. Another winner on taste &#8211; nothing about these bars feels artificial or too sweet. They have the perfect balance of flavors and are definitely satiating. This bar has 110 calories, too.</p>
<p>As you can see, I was very impressed by the new <a href="http://lunabar.com/products/fiber/" target="_blank">LUNA Fiber Bars</a> &#8211; and I want you to try them! The team at LUNA has offered to send a trio of new flavors to an Eating Bender reader.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>#LUNAFiber Giveaway</strong></span></p>
<p>Leave a comment below describing which flavor of <a href="http://lunabar.com/products/fiber/" target="_blank">LUNA Fiber Bars</a> you would most like to try and why. You can also follow LUNA Bar on <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/lunabar" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and like them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/luna" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</p>
<p>I will randomly choose one winner on <span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Monday, May 7 at 8:00 a.m. CST</strong></span>.</p>
<p><strong><em>What are your favorite snack or energy bars?</em></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/03/luna-fiber-bars-giveaway/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>92</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Book Review: Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/01/book-review-gone-with-the-wind-by-margaret-mitchell/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/01/book-review-gone-with-the-wind-by-margaret-mitchell/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 May 2012 04:42:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[book review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gone with the Wind]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Margaret Mitchell]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=16023</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How do you write a book review about a classic like Gone with the Wind? It seemed daunting &#8211; the summary alone encompasses 1,000+ pages of plot. I was tempted to &#8220;think about it tomorrow,&#8221; as Scarlett O&#8217;Hara would say, but decided I had to gush about it while it was freshest in my mind. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>How do you write a book review about a classic like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Wind-Margaret-Mitchell/dp/0446365386" target="_blank"><em>Gone with the Wind</em></a>? It seemed daunting &#8211; the summary alone encompasses 1,000+ pages of plot. I was tempted to &#8220;think about it tomorrow,&#8221; as <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0031381/quotes?qt=qt0482206" target="_blank">Scarlett O&#8217;Hara would say</a>, but decided I had to gush about it while it was freshest in my mind.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/01/book-review-gone-with-the-wind-by-margaret-mitchell/gone-with-the-wind/" rel="attachment wp-att-16024"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-16024" title="gone with the wind" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/gone-with-the-wind.jpg" alt="" width="301" height="432" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2tuQPfEY4c/Twoqer1V1DI/AAAAAAAAK6s/ZhQ0psiSXFM/s1600/gone%2Bwith%2Bthe%2Bwind.jpg" target="_blank">Source</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>In Short</strong></span></p>
<p>It&#8217;s difficult to encapsulate this book in a few sentences. It&#8217;s a story of peace and war, love and loss, hope and despair. More than that, it presents a chronological look at a time filled with uncertainty in America &#8211; the Civil War and Reconstruction &#8211; while also depicting the moral and psychological growth of its characters as they undergo dramatic changes to their way of life. Read this book first and foremost because it is a classic deserving of its awards and praise, but also check it out if you enjoy immersing yourself in other periods of history. Margaret Mitchell paints a vivid picture of life in the South, from belles and beaux to Yankees and Confederates and everything in between.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>The Details</strong></span></p>
<p>The story centers around the infamous protagonist, Scarlett O&#8217;Hara, chronicling her journey from a spoiled 16-year-old Southern belle in 1861 to a weathered yet determined grown woman in 1873. Of course, the significance of these years goes far beyond Scarlett&#8217;s life. Much of the book is devoted to intricate details of the South during the Civil War, from mere talk amongst townspeople to the brutality of battle when the fight reaches their own backyards. There is bloodshed and lives lost for the Cause &#8211; a way of life that Southerners (particularly in Georgia, where the story is set) held onto with a determination they were ready and willing to die for. Margaret Mitchell also does a thorough job of showcasing what life was like on the plantations before the war broke out, from barbecues and balls to the dynamic between the families and their slaves.</p>
<p>Beyond the war, there is rebuilding and Reconstruction. It was interesting to think about what I learned in high school textbooks versus what Margaret Mitchell writes about the South during the period &#8211; how the Yankees were viewed, the deceptive practices of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpetbagger" target="_blank">Carpetbaggers</a> and the hatred of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scalawag" target="_blank">Scalawags</a>. These terms didn&#8217;t really present their full impact until I was reading them from Scarlett&#8217;s point of view, as well from the perspective of the other Georgia residents.</p>
<p>Through it all, there is a pulse of romance. The opening line of the novel may be, &#8220;Scarlett O&#8217;Hara was not beautiful,&#8221; but as Mitchell goes onto explain, men seldom realized it. She possesses an undeniable charm that leaves most men putty in her hands. But charming though she may be, she is not always willing to conform to the standards of a &#8220;great lady&#8221; in her day. She can be coarse, brutally honest and, as you&#8217;ll see when the plot unfolds, far too smart for her own good (and I say that with sarcasm, imitating the thoughts of the people of her day). When Scarlett meets Rhett Butler, things really start to get interesting.</p>
<p>I could go on and on, but I&#8217;ll let you get to reading already! What I admired most about Margaret Mitchell &#8211; other than her story &#8211; was the way she developed the characters. Each one is so full of life and personality that you come to appreciate them regardless of whether you would think and act the same way they do. They share commonalities but can also be irreconcilably different. Are you a Scarlett or a Melanie? An Ashley or a Rhett? These are <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/2012/03/29/author-spotlight-three-good-reads/" target="_blank">questions you may find yourself smiling about</a> as you work your way through those 1,000 pages. And they are worth it.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">***</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Big thanks to my sister-in-law <a href="http://twinthusiasm.com/2012/03/29/author-spotlight-three-good-reads/" target="_blank">Cara</a> for providing me with the motivation I needed to finally complete this epic &#8211; yes, epic &#8211; book. She had a feeling I would enjoy it, and I truly did. I&#8217;m looking forward to watching the movie, too. It&#8217;s already in the plans for this weekend!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><em>Have you read </em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Wind-Margaret-Mitchell/dp/0446365386" target="_blank">Gone with the Wind</a><em> (or seen the movie)? If so, what did you think?</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/05/01/book-review-gone-with-the-wind-by-margaret-mitchell/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>21</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Mountain Magic Mania</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Apr 2012 20:39:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[#PhotoADayApril]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Breakfast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dinner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lunch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Golf Tournament]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mama Bender]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountain Magic]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=15971</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[They knew what they were doing when they named it Mountain Magic. It was a golf tournament unlike any other! I had fond memories from last year, but being able to experience the fun, challenge and excitement all over again was a real treat. And it was extra special because this year&#8230;we came out of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>They knew what they were doing when they named it <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/" target="_blank">Mountain Magic</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0472/" rel="attachment wp-att-15978"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15978" title="IMG_0472" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0472-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>It was a golf tournament unlike any other! I had fond memories from last year, but being able to experience the fun, challenge and excitement all over again was a real treat. And it was extra special because this year&#8230;we came out of it with a trophy!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1721/" rel="attachment wp-att-15979"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15979" title="DSCN1721" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1721-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Let&#8217;s back up a little bit. When <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/" target="_blank">I last left you</a>, we were about to embark on our first day of playing. Just like last year, we each received a rose as a symbol of good luck for the rounds to come.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0456/" rel="attachment wp-att-15972"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15972" title="IMG_0456" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0456-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Unfortunately luck was not on the players&#8217; side the first morning, as the rain did not stay away. It poured and poured, pushing back our tee time from 9:00 a.m. to noon. On the bright side, as soon as noon rolled around the rain let up and we had a relatively dry &#8211; albeit cloudy &#8211; day ahead of us.</p>
<p>Before our round began, we stopped by the clubhouse for breakfast. I was fascinated by these frittatas that were stuffed inside real egg shells. I needed about eight of them in order to feel truly satisfied, but they were definitely cute!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0457/" rel="attachment wp-att-15973"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15973" title="IMG_0457" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0457-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Soon enough, we were out on the course. Like last year, our opening round was a best ball, which means that as partners, we take the lowest score out of the two of us on each hole to come up with the combined best score possible. There is both a gross score &#8211; the actual strokes we get on each hole &#8211; and a net score, which is determined by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handicap_%28golf%29" target="_blank">handicap</a>.</p>
<p>We played a course called Chiricahua, which is tough enough on a pleasant weather day. Unfortunately, our balls were magnets for the sand trap. Rainy days and sand traps do not go together well, and let&#8217;s just say that when you&#8217;re nervous, it becomes even uglier.</p>
<p>Still, we battled through and only had a few double bogeys (rather than the dramatic &#8220;8&#8243; of last year), ending up with a reasonable score of 82. We didn&#8217;t qualify for the shootout like we did in 2011, but we were happily exhausted and ready for round two.</p>
<p>The food at these tournaments is always fantastic. I had an organic kale salad, chicken lettuce wrap and caprese sandwich to fill me up after a long day of play &#8211; plus a glass of white wine (or two). <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1681/" rel="attachment wp-att-15982"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15982" title="DSCN1681" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1681-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>There were also these INCREDIBLE strawberry cake balls. Holy moly. Best dessert ever.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1687/" rel="attachment wp-att-15986"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15986" title="DSCN1687" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1687-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>The next morning&#8217;s fare was just as yummy. There were mini Greek frittatas in muffin cups, potatoes, bacon and chicken sausage. My mom and I shared a little of everything and were protein packed for the next eighteen holes.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1689/" rel="attachment wp-att-15988"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15988" title="DSCN1689" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1689-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Our second day went way better than the first! This time it was <a title="a scramble" href="http://golf.about.com/cs/golfterms/g/bldef_scramble.htm" target="_blank">a scramble</a> on the Apache course, which essentially means that each of us hits a drive at the start of the hole. From there, we pick the best shot and hit again, pick the best shot and hit again, and on and on that way until you finish the hole, hopefully with the lowest score possible. The only catch is that you have to take at least six drives from each person, so the pressure is on to be accurate!</p>
<p>The weather was phenomenal &#8211; sunny and high 80s. I incorporated it into my <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/?s=%23photoadayapril" target="_blank">#PhotoADayApril</a>. <a href="http://instagr.am/p/J8ScWRmcPw/" target="_blank">Somewhere I went</a>: the green! This is the 12th hole on Apache, a par three.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0466/" rel="attachment wp-att-15975"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15975" title="IMG_0466" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0466-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>We had a very steady time of it, ending up with only one bogey, three birdies and all the rest par for a final gross score of 70, <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/05/05/babies-mountain-magic-part-two/" target="_blank">just like last year</a>! The result left us in second place and down by two strokes (gross) going into the very last day. That&#8217;s us in the top left corner.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0465/" rel="attachment wp-att-15974"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15974" title="IMG_0465" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0465-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Lunch after round two was a delicious assortment of fish tacos and quinoa salad!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1692/" rel="attachment wp-att-15989"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15989" title="DSCN1692" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1692-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>But the best was yet to come. Yesterday was the third and final round. We got to the course early for another great breakfast of waffles, scrambled eggs and hash browns.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1698/" rel="attachment wp-att-15992"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15992" title="DSCN1698" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1698-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>And then we were off! Another best ball, like the first day, except this time around we were able to pick the best drive on each hole and play out from there. We played the Geronimo course, which is where I was at when <a href="http://instagr.am/p/J_yjRmmcNp/" target="_blank">1:00 p.m.</a> rolled around a la <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/?s=%23photoadayapril" target="_blank">#PhotoADayApril</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0471/" rel="attachment wp-att-15977"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15977" title="IMG_0471" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0471-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>The weather was gorgeous for us yet again, and my mom and I had another steady day. We balanced each other out and when one of us had a bad hole, the other would recover. My mom also had some amazing birdie putts, and even had a chip-in for par! Unlike last year, there were no <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/05/05/babies-mountain-magic-part-two/" target="_blank">terrifying &#8220;9s&#8221; and &#8220;10s&#8221; to choose from</a>. We ended up with a 73 for gross and a 67 for net.</p>
<p>Our competition was fierce but so much fun to play with. Here we are awaiting the results.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1701/" rel="attachment wp-att-15993"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15993" title="DSCN1701" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1701-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Once everyone was in, we were amazed and delighted to find we were the lowest on the board!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/img_0470/" rel="attachment wp-att-15976"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15976" title="IMG_0470" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0470-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>I can&#8217;t tell you how much it means to me to be able to play in this tournament with my mom. Just having the opportunity to spend three whole, uninterrupted days with her on the course is really special. Golf is really important to both of us, as both a sport and as a way for us to be together.</p>
<p>To be able to pull off a win was icing on the cake of an already wonderful weekend with Mama B.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1715/" rel="attachment wp-att-15996"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15996" title="DSCN1715" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1715-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>The feather trophies are really cool! Here is the story behind them.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1706/" rel="attachment wp-att-15994"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15994" title="DSCN1706" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1706-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Before we knew it, the time had come to celebrate a whirlwind weekend!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1722/" rel="attachment wp-att-15997"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15997" title="DSCN1722" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1722-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>We tidied ourselves up for a sit down dinner with a mouthwatering menu.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1729/" rel="attachment wp-att-16000"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16000" title="DSCN1729" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1729-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>The first course was an arugula and watercress salad. The flavor of the vanilla pear brulee was outstanding, and I loved the presentation of the dish.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1732/" rel="attachment wp-att-16001"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16001" title="DSCN1732" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1732-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Our main course was short ribs and roasted halibut. I preferred the fish and the barley risotto myself. Although, given my track record with <a href="http://eatingbender.com/2011/06/01/memorable-meals-risotto-a-go-go/" target="_blank">risotto</a> (and that this was the same venue where <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/03/03/better-late-than-never-october-16-2010-reception/" target="_blank">my wedding reception</a> was held), this should not come as a surprise. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1736/" rel="attachment wp-att-16003"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16003" title="DSCN1736" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1736-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Our dessert definitely lived up to its name: the chocolate high heel was fabulous, as was the flashy bling ring that came with it on the plate! As soon as it was served, the lights dimmed and we knew it was time to dance!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1743/" rel="attachment wp-att-16004"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16004" title="DSCN1743" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1743-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>The band was great! They played a lot of hits, both old and new.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1734-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-16010"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16010" title="DSCN1734" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN17341-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>We got really into it &#8211; some of us more than others&#8230; <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1745/" rel="attachment wp-att-16005"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16005" title="DSCN1745" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1745-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>We were both dancing maniacs. My mom&#8217;s friend Carol did a great job on her inflatable saxophone, too. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' />  They ended up taking first net in our flight &#8211; congrats to Carol and her partner Jane!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1747/" rel="attachment wp-att-16006"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16006" title="DSCN1747" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1747-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>It was a great night&#8230;and an even better weekend. I already can&#8217;t wait for next year.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/dscn1754/" rel="attachment wp-att-16007"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16007" title="DSCN1754" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1754-600x449.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="449" /></a></p>
<p>Big thank you to Mama Bender for bringing me out here as her partner. As I said before, it means so much to be able to spend this time with you, doing what we love and having a blast. I&#8217;m so, so lucky to have a rock star golfer for a mom!</p>
<p>Hope you are all having amazing weekends, too! <em><strong>What have you been up to?</strong></em></p>
<p><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/29/mountain-magic-mania/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>27</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Mountain Magic Reprise</title>
		<link>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/</link>
		<comments>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Apr 2012 03:30:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenn (eating bender)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dinner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tidbits and Treats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Golf Tournament]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mama Bender]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountain Magic]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.eatingbender.com/?p=15953</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Does this look like a pair ready to conquer a golf tournament? Not sure about that, but we&#8217;re definitely ready to conquer something. Oh, and I may not have been ready for the first photo. I was too excited about my Kanye West sunglasses. Tonight marked the kickoff event for this year&#8217;s Mountain Magic tournament! [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Does this look like a pair ready to conquer a golf tournament?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/img_0455/" rel="attachment wp-att-15954"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15954" title="IMG_0455" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0455-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>Not sure about that, but we&#8217;re definitely ready to conquer <em>something</em>. Oh, and I may not have been ready for the first photo. I was too excited about my Kanye West sunglasses. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>Tonight marked the kickoff event for this year&#8217;s <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/05/03/mountain-magic-part-one/" target="_blank">Mountain</a> <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/05/05/babies-mountain-magic-part-two/" target="_blank">Magic</a> tournament! In addition to the photo booth, there was plenty of delicious food (and drinks) to be had. I had a little bit of everything: beef topped with horseradish, chicken taco shell, whole wheat roll and portabello salad. The beef was my favorite &#8211; the horseradish gave it an extra kick!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/dscn1669/" rel="attachment wp-att-15956"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15956" title="DSCN1669" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1669-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>There were also delicious raspberry cosmos (served through a high heel made of ice &#8211; no joke).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/dscn1670/" rel="attachment wp-att-15957"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15957" title="DSCN1670" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1670-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>And that shot glass behind the cosmo? It was actually a watermelon gazpacho shooter, which was very yummy. There was also a coconut curry shrimp soup shooter, but it wasn&#8217;t my favorite.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/dscn1671/" rel="attachment wp-att-15958"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15958" title="DSCN1671" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1671-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>For dessert, there was a scrumptious strawberry cake that I had my eye on. It reminded me of <a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2011/10/16/october-16-2011-a-grand-first-year/" target="_blank">our wedding cake</a> and was worth every bite! I also picked up a small chocolate tart.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/dscn1672/" rel="attachment wp-att-15959"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15959" title="DSCN1672" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1672-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>We had a great time dining and sizing up our competition. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/dscn1676/" rel="attachment wp-att-15960"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15960" title="DSCN1676" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN1676-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Tomorrow the fun begins! Fingers crossed that the rain holds off. And that we hit fairways!</p>
<p>More to come soon. <img src='http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><em><strong>How is your week going?</strong></em></p>
<p><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Abrazos,</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/03/09/welcome-to-the-new-eating-bender/signature/" rel="attachment wp-att-14723"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14723" title="Signature" src="http://www.eatingbender.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Signature.png" alt="" width="98" height="75" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.eatingbender.com/2012/04/25/mountain-magic-reprise/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>15</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss><!-- Dynamic page generated in 2.269 seconds. --><!-- Cached page generated by WP-Super-Cache on 2012-05-16 20:23:36 -->

