Vanilla Pear Muffins

There are two delinquent birds that like to wreak havoc around my neighborhood. They run up and down the streets without a care in the world. They chase and peck at wandering cats. Small animals run from them in terror. Theses birds are fearless. If I didn't know any better, I would imagine these birds were outlaws on the run from the law, showing man and beast just who's in charge.

In the early hours of the morning, they like to drum on the basement windows with their beaks. The sound is so loud, it resonates throughout the entire house. The first time I heard it, my sister and I were both certain that someone was trying to break in by pounding hammers against the windows. But, no. It was just the birds.

After I caught them in the act, they ran away, pecking each other playfully as if to congratulate themselves on their dirty deeds. These birds know no boundaries. I'm almost afraid of them. I wonder, if I met them in a dark alley, would they chase me around and peck at my ankles?

I hope I don't have to find out.

Since this early morning window pounding has become a regular affair, sleeping in has become a thing of the past. And, while this certainly doesn't make me too happy, I think the results of my early morning baking will please you.

This morning, I made some muffins. While many of you may scoff at yet another muffin recipe being sent your way, I would like to point out that these aren't just any old muffins; these particular muffins are something to write home about.

Instead of telling you what I think of them, I want to share what one of my muffin taste testers shared with me: "The muffins were not only delicious, but tasted unlike any other dessert I have consumed. The flavor of the pear nutmeg muffin has no equal; certainly nothing to which I can compare. The muffin occupies its own pedestal for delectability in the 'tasty and delicious' hall of fame. A truly unique combination of ingredients."

If that doesn't sell you on these, I'm not sure what will.

These vanilla pear muffins are moist, tender, and one-of-a-kind. These muffins have a very unique texture, closely resembling a bread instead of a light cake. The flavors are what really make these muffins shine. Certainly you've had pears and nutmeg together before, but this will change everything you thought you knew about it. Combined with a hint of vanilla, this flavor fusion will blow your taste buds out of the water. Trust me when I say you need to make these muffins as soon as possible.

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Vanilla Almond Cupcakes

This past weekend I took some time off to be with family to go skiing. It's a spring break tradition we started when I was younger and have kept it up since. This year's destination was to Red Lodge, Montana. It's a small tourist town with the quaintest little main street you've ever seen, surrounded by mountains perfect for skiing or snowboarding (and hiking in summer).

The weather was perfect. It was bright and sunny with little wind and I couldn't have asked for anything better. With few clouds, the view from the top of the mountain was unbelievable. The mountains and country seemed to extend on forever. My sister thought she could easily see far enough to reach into the next state. I agreed.

Though the sun was shining, I still bundled up like I was headed into the arctic for the next year. Three layers on the bottom, five on the top, and a neck warmer that covered everything but the tip of my nose (which was the only part of me that sunburned, by the way. Call me Rudolph). Though, it was worth it. There are few things more exhilarating than skiing down a mountain as fast as you can.

After a long day on the slopes, nothing seems better than a plate full of food. The main street is full of original shops and restaurants, including Bogart's (our favorite restaurant). Order the giant plate of nachos. And a margarita (or two). It's the best you'll ever have.

 

The town is also home to the Montana Candy Emporium. It is a renovated movie theater turned candy shop. It sells just about every discontinued or old-timey candy you can imagine, holding it all in rows of barrels. With vintage signs and paraphernalia, this place is really a sight.

We stayed in a small cottage at the base of the mountain. Even though it was without internet (gasp), we found a way to entertain each other. Sometimes it just feels good to get a break from technology and reality, for just a little while.

These cupcakes are light and subtly sweet. The vanilla almond cupcake has vanilla tones with sliced almonds right in the mix. The cake is barely sweet to allow the almond to shine. The frosting is a basic vanilla frosting with a hint of almond extract to cut the sweetness. The flavors in this cupcake really shine—neither the vanilla or almond outshine each other. These cupcakes are perfect for afternoon tea.

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Vanilla Rum Soaked French Toast

I have a love-hate relationship with the gym. I tend to go to classes instead of trying to go it on my own for a few (good) reasons. Believe it or not, I can be a bit of a wimp. When I'm running my heart out on the treadmill all by myself, I want to quit as soon as there's a tiny bit of sweat. I'm tired, you know. My feet might be starting to hurt. I wouldn't want to accidentally overdo it.

But mostly, there's no one to yell at me for whining and making up lame excuses.

Now don't get me wrong, I can force myself to do some physical activity but there is no way in hell you can make me do a few hundred squats of my own accord.

In class, there is an unspoken agreement that everyone is in it together, no matter where the sweat and pain will lead you. When the going gets tough, everyone unites and there are words of encouragement spread far and wide.

When the going actually gets tough, the words of encouragement are lost in exasperated panting and strangled grunting. Our once solid unity dissolves before our eyes—it's every man for himself. I begin to actively despise the instructor for making me do 50 more crunches when my abs are burning fiercer than the fires of hell. I want to cry at the prospect of holding the plank position one more time (but my tears would only be lost in the sweat dripping down my face). I am bitter and hostile because she makes jumping around for an entire hour seem like a walk in the park. I channel all of my savage thoughts into finishing that last set. I have tunnel vision until the second hand of the clock ticks into the end of my punishment.

When class is over, all bad thoughts dissolve. The class once again becomes a strong unit. We bring out the encouraging words again. Someone mentions that class "wasn't so bad today" and I agree. The rush of a good workout somehow diminishes all the hatred and tears I felt moments prior.

I think we all get a case of workout amnesia—it's the only way we'll ever step back into that gym again.

Sunday brunch is one of my favorite meals of the week. The menu this morning called for sausage, fruit, and this vanilla rum soaked French toast. This is basically a standard French Toast recipe with a twist. As soon as you take a bite, you will be hit with the sweet tones of vanilla and a subtle kick of rum. Neither flavor is too much or too little. Make this French toast when you feel like spicing up your morning!

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