What's Going On?

It's been quite hectic in the home of the Campagno's! We've been running non-stop and I'd like to fill ya in on what's been going on with us.

- As you know, we moved. The place is finally getting to where we want it. I still need to tackle a few projects - like the garden, but that will come in due time. In fact, my friend Jodi has offered to lend a hand in helping me clean up the front and back gardens. Thank God! I'll need all the help I can get!!

- Memorial Day Weekend - Beer + Beer + Beer = FUN!

Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend was Collingswood's May Fair. They blocked off a mile or two of the "main drag" Haddon Ave (which happens to be the street we live on) and had a classic car show, three stages for local bands, food, crafts, vendors, games and rides for kids, etc. I could go on and on. The best part - my dear friends: Jennie, Andrew, Liz, Amy, Jodi & Adam and they're adorable daughter Zoe met at our place - filled our solo cups with beer and hit the street! It was awesome!! Jennie also performed on the Main Stage with her group that performs at the Battleship NJ. It rocked!

Sunday we went to a BBQ at our friends Dave & Christina's house in Alloway. We played horse shoes, took the canoe out on the lake, ate yummy BBQ, and even played Polish horse shoes all while I finished a 12 pack of Miller Chill. Yeah - we weren't driving home that night, so we stayed the night and had a fantastic time handing out with good friends!!

Monday was back in Collingswood. Went to Jennie & Andrew's & Amy's apartments for a backyard BBQ. Again, the alcohol was flowing - this time - Margaritas!! THANK GOD I live just around the corner from them or I don't think I would have made it home. I actually could have walked.

- Tomorrow Jennie and I are having a Yard Sale at Jennie's apartment - finally getting rid of some of the crap that we've accumulated over the years. Then I'm heading down to a graduation party for my cousin, Chrissy. Later that night we're going to our friend's house - Liz & Ed the newlyweds - for a Casino Night. I'm in the mood to win some cash!!!

This is just a snippet of what's been up in our world. I almost forgot - LOST Season Finale was last night. O MY LORD! I'm pleading with anyone who reads this blog. IF you have not seen the show, please do so! Start with the first season, get throught he first few episodes and you'll be hooked! It's so good!!! I promise you!

Well, I better get back to work. Ugh! Could this short week be any longer? TTFN!

Ode to THE GRILL!

Craig and I, along with his brother, Keith, went to my grandmother's house on Saturday to pick up some items that were given to us for our home. My grandmother was kind enough to store this stuff for us while we didn't have the space in our old apartment. (cue BNL song!)

1. The antique dining room set that my mom gave me, that I, in return, gave to my sister-in-law when I moved to Florida, that she gave BACK to me when she moved. Complete with 6 chairs and a table leaf.
2. A laundry hamper complete with a brand new set of white towels.
3. THE GRILL my grandmother's neighbors gave to Craig and I. (Ahhhhhh sings the choir of Angels).

Let me back up a bit. Friday evening Craig and I did the "New Move Food Shopping Extravaganza." I call it that because we spent over $500! We needed food to fill our cabinets and refrigerator. Eating out was getting old - real fast - although we have a fabulous pizza place across the street called Stella's!! We went to Wegman's - what I consider the mecca of grocery stores - and filled our cart frugally as we walked up and down the aisles. The most important purchase of the evening: Rib eye Steak and NY Strip Steak!

This brings us to yesterday afternoon. The Phillies just beat the San Fransico Giants and it was time for the grilling to commence. I've been talking about grilling like this for over 2 years now and the time has finally come! Craig likes NY Strip while I prefer the Rib eye cut of meat. I had them marinating in olive oil, garlic, grill seasoning and some other yummy herbs and spices. With beer in hand and flare ups tickling the two pieces of meat along with the aroma of cooking meat swirling around in the air - it was my little slice of heaven! Add to that grilled zucchini, onion slices, red potatoes, and asparagus. As Rachel Ray says, "YUM-O!" The smile on Craig's face as he ate his perfectly cooked steak was the icing on the cake!

Ode to THE GRILL
Oh Grill - how I love thee!
You are a magnificent piece of machinery!
The fire that burns inside you cooks my steak perfectly.
For that I am most grateful!
How I adore the way you tease me while I cook.
The scent and smoke in the air gets my salivation glands going.
You are a marvel in all that is wonderful in this world.
Whether it be meat, vegetable, bread or fruit-
You bring a sense of calmness and wholeness to one's growling stomach.
Thank you for all you do!!

It's geeky, I know, but who cares??!!!