Hanging with Buster

Hanging out in Pittsburgh this weekend, I've immediately fallen for my buddy's dog Buster (full name: Buster Adam Shepler). He's about equal parts ears, sleep, and super long belly... great company working from home on Friday, and a great subject for some pics!

The starters to start...

In the UK this summer, I began to develop an unfortunate affectation, never more obvious than when a waiter asked if we'd have any starters to start and I responded... well, staaaarturs is perhaps a more accurate spelling of my bad british accent.

Seems only appropriate that my first post would be about the same - this time a few starters that we had tonight around the house. The salad is a vegetarian "ceviche" that I came up with as a fresh bite before dinner; a moscow mule perfectly complemented my creation!

Pear and Celery "Ceviche":
1 Celery Stalk, cut into Matchsticks
1 Ripe Pear, cubed
Juice of 1/2 Lime
Dash of Soy Sauce
Fresh Mint to Garnish

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl, toss with lime juice and soy sauce, and place in the freezer to chill... couldn't be easier.

Moscow Mule:
1.5 oz Vodka
3 oz Ginger Beer (Ginger ale will do)
Barspoon of simple syrup or agave nectar
Wedge of lime
Fresh Mint Sprig

Combine the liquid ingredients, squeeze the lime, and stir with ice to chill. Add the mint sprig and enjoy!