#5, Go to the ballet

Since the first time I saw A Chorus Line, I've always wanted to go to the ballet. There's something so magical about the precision and perfection of the movement. I've been to a few amateur recitals, but never actually gone to a professional production. Fortunately, now that we live in a larger metropolitan area, there are many cultural opportunities available--including the ballet!

Rick and I attended a local ballet performance last night (Saturday, April 24). I couldn't take any pictures of the actual show, of course, but I got a few pictures.

It was a lovely performance by some very talented dancers. There were two more modern pieces, and a scene from Romeo and Juliet, as well as a large piece from Giselle. The costumes were gorgeous and the music was lovely. I'm very glad that I made this one of my goals!

On another item, we have booked our trip to Orlando to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter--which will open in June. I can't believe I only have about 7 months left to get all of these things done!

#6, Cook 10 things from Mastering the Art of French Cooking (3/10)

Hooray! Two more recipes from Mastering the Art of French Cooking were accomplished on April 11th. My friend Libby again assisted, and both dishes came out pretty good.

We cooked gratin de pommes de terre aux anchois (kind of a potato and egg quiche with anchovies) and concombres au beurre (baked cucumbers). Libby bought me my very own copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking for Christmas, so I don't have to check it out of the library anymore!

The gratin started with diced potatoes and cooked onions.

Then it was time to add the anchovies. Yummy!

The cucumbers got heavy whipping cream poured over them, and then sprinkled with parsley. Here are both dishes before we put them in the oven.

A close-up of the cucumbers, post-cooking.

Yummy French cooking!

We're hoping to accomplish 2 more recipes this weekend--hopefully desserts!