Out of the Swamp, Return to the Frozen Tundra

Travel
My heart quickens a bit when I ponder the selection of outerwear I need for our trip North. Surely a sport coat with the now fashionable neck scarf, my fedora, and my ever-present and always-reliable Duluth Trading Fleece Gloves will protect me from most of December's cool weather. However, I did watch the two games played in Lambeau recently and note a raincoat may be more prudent. My memories are of blinding snow and biting wind. I should bring the parka and my wool navy watch cap and calf-high boots. I guess there won't be room in the van for the dog. Unless we Romney pack her on the roof...?

In any case, we are just days away from filling the travel cup with coffee, plugging in the smartphone, tuning up an audible book on the van's stereo system, and watching the scenery change from light green to brown (possibly snow white). The reward will be seeing all of our family and friends on the Third Coast and up in "da Valley hey."

Unfortunately, we are telling everyone that this grand experiment is not working, and we anticipate moving back to Wisconsin. There are no answers to any dark and dreary questions. Simply stated, our plans and expectations for this move did not materialize. We are retreating in the face of economic disappointment, but we look forward to re-establishing ourselves in the loving arms of friends and family. Where we live will depend on where Maria can find a job. She has feelers out in Milwaukee, Madison, and The Fox Valley.

Baking
It appears that I've established two benchmarks in my home baking career. I have consistently produced good loaves of white bread and trays of cinnamon rolls with a caramel frosting. Realistically, I can use the same white bread dough for dinner rolls or hot dog - sandwich buns. What I need to do is master a french baguette, Ciabatta bread, and Challah bread.

Flashmob
I look forward to seeing all of my friends in Milwaukee. If you haven't be informed, be advised, Maria and I will set up Camp Jeff at Von Trier's on Farwell & North Ave on Tuesday, December 29th at 5:00PM. Join us for a moment or for the evening.
Michael Horne, Bar Exam, Von Trier's

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