exit, pursued by bear

stealth mode: engaged.

Norman: stealth camouflage mode.
Originally uploaded by LNsBeatles

:: narrated in hushed tones ::

Here we see the mostly domesticated "Bouledogue Français" or "Canis Spottedus Stinkyus," attempting to camouflage himself amongst the warm hills and valleys of "Dwell Studio Duvet."

This current habitat is surely most foreign to the "Canis Spottedus Stinkyus," as he typically hibernates in tiny, squashed spaces - frequently called a "dog bed" in the local dialect - and usually found only in lower altitudes. We can only speculate that recent colder temperatures drove this furry beast to seek warmth and shelter at a higher elevation.

Hopefully the locals were not too startled or disturbed by the appearance of such a strange creature - he is known for his unmelodious vocalizations and his tendency to emit noxious fumes. Although, given the size and girth of "Canis Spottedus Stinkyus," surely he required some assistance to ascend to such great heights?

We may never know for sure ... Tune in again, for more insights and background into this fascinating creature!

for the recipe queue.

I have a ton of photos that I need to download from my camera -- but while I'm working up the energy to accomplish that task, here's a delicious looking soup that I came across today, from Serious Eats (via The Kitchn) -- "Lentil and Bacon Soup"

{Photo from Serious Eats}

It's a recipe from Charlie Trotter -- from his Charlie Trotter Cooks at Home cookbook. I've never been to his famous Chicago restaurant, but my father has -- and claims he had one of the best (and most expensive -- fortunately he wasn't paying) meals of his life.

I'm anxious to give this recipe a try -- if it's any good, I may just have to pick up Mr. Trotter's cookbook -- I've had my eye on it for a while now. Although, how bad can it be -- THERE'S A HALF A POUND OF BACON IN IT, lol.

Lentil and Bacon Soup
- serves 2 to 3 -

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound bacon, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup yellow onions, diced
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup green lentils
• 1 quart chicken stock
• 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
• salt and pepper

Procedure

1. Add about three-quarters of the bacon to a large pot. Cook over medium heat until the fat has rendered and the bacon has slightly crisped up. Dump in the onions and carrots and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Drain any excess fat. Then add the lentils and half of the stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Pour in the rest of the stock, season with salt and pepper to taste, and increase the heat to medium. Cook for 10 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, cook the rest of the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove pieces and drain on a paper towel.

4. Pour some soup into a bowl and top with some sliced scallions and crispy bacon.

a toast to 2009.

"For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning."
-- T.S. Eliot