Simple dinner, awful chili, exciting news

Despite the hot weather, Jack asked for chili tonight, red chili with beef and beans to be precise. Now red chili is not something I make very often, so I did a quick search for a recipe and came across one that sounded simple and good. Cubed sirloin, beans, nice spices...I made it all, served the boys, tasted it myself and we all went "BLECH!" and on to dinner #2. What a waste, but it is not good, just no good at all. Know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run. Brilliant words Kenny, just brilliant. The Gambler is such a great song.

Anyway, for my own sup, I made a simple salad of mozzarella di bufala, shaved fennel, lemon, salt and olive oil (I swear I saw some version of this somewhere about six months ago), opened a can of best-quality vegetarian stuffed grape leaves, toasted some bread and called it a meal.

Do you know what I just registered for and am going to?? BlogHer 2013, a fantastic conference for bloggers in Chicago in two weeks. I am even able to attend the pre-conference day! I cannot believe this all came together, and I thank, profusely, everyone who is helping me with the kids (husband, father-in-law, friends!) as well as dear friends who are hosting me in Chi-town. Unbelievable and exciting opportunity.