Peach Cobbler, Blackeyed Peas, and Paella

Since Lara would be leaving us this week, we wanted to make her last weekend with us fun. On Saturday, we went to the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg. We had a very nice time and Lara knew many of his works as well as the history behind them. It was very interesting to get her perspective.

On Sunday, we decided to make some traditional foods. We had an American-Spanish feast. Our menu included tapas (Spanish), paella (Spanish), blackeyed peas (American, Donald's favorite), and peach cobbler (American, my favorite).

Laura and I spent the day shopping. First, we headed to Barnes &Noble for some books. We found a wonderful Spanish cookbook that Laura informed me was very common in Spain. Laura bought a new edition of The Princess Diaries she said this series is very popular among the teen girls in Spain. She also enjoys reading English versions as she can expand her English reading abilities. Laura is quite remarkable!

Next, we went to Williams & Sonoma (my favorite place to shop!) for a paella pan and some Calasparra rice. We also checked to see if they carry Spanish olive oil. Lara brought us some from Spain and I wanted to see if I can buy it here in the future.

Next, we went to Fresh Market to purchase our ingredients for the paella. Donald is allergic to shrimp so we opted for chicken, mussels, and vegies - are you getting hungry yet?

Now, I have to say that I have never cared for paella. However, since Laura wanted to cook and she says paella is one of her family's specialties, I had to try it. Well, what a wonderful meal we had. First, we enjoyed shopping and getting everything ready for cooking. Next, we had fun cooking together, and finally, the meal was "to die for"! It was excellent, if I might say so myself.

All good things must end one day (Who said that anyway? Wasn't that in a song from my teen years? Does anyone remember it?).

Today was a very sad day. We took Lara to the bus at 7:00 AM. We were all in tears. She has been such a joy. I have to admit, I was not so sure I would enjoy having a teenager in the house for 3 weeks but it has been very enjoyable. We also shared a lot of our cultures with each other.

We will probably consider participating in the foreign exchange program in the future. I strongly recommend it. We enjoyed both of the students we hosted. And our experiences definitely took our minds off the delays with our adoption.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Patiently waiting for word about our little girl,
Elizabth