2010 Winter Culinary and Couch Olympics

Had it been for any reason other than THE GAMES OF THE 21st WINTER OLYMPIAD, I would not be able to confess the number of hours I dedicated last week to ensuring that the outline and depression of my backside would claim its own medal in the Harris-Bigelow Couch Olympics.  Since it was for that worthwhile endeavor, I can proudly share the commitment and dedication I demonstrated in those 40+ hours spent viewing the likes of Apollo Anton Ohno, Bode Miller, and, yes, Johnny Weir (who was ROBBED).

In light of my grueling competitive schedule last week, there wasn't much down time in which I could focus my energy on cooking.  I am just one woman and I had to make a choice.  It wasn't easy.  (Ok, it was.)  I questioned whether I was prepared for the challenge: mentally, emotionally, and physically.  I had to get into my head and ask myself if all the years of training had prepared me well enough to reach the goals I'd set for myself; whether the sacrifices I had made would prove worth it in the end; if my children could handle a week of restaurant meals.

I am happy to say that we all gave it our best shot and in the end, isn't that really all we can ask of ourselves?

Here's a recap of the week's culinary medal winners:

Winning the Gold Medal for amazing deliciousness and the perfect way to start the work week:
Zachary's Stuffed Pizza

Claiming the Silver Medal, missing the gold by a mere .0001:
Take Out Chinese from The Silver Palace

In a shocking three way tie for the Bronze Medal: the only things I managed to make from scratch last week: scrambled eggs with fines herbes (OK, minus the ever absent chervil) and parmesan, tuna salad sandwiches, and pasta pesto (DO NOT be swayed by anyone's assertion that pine nuts are "optional" or should be downright omitted in this sauce - that is NOT pesto; pistou perhaps).

The games weren't without other surprises, including a completely unexpected DSQ being awarded to my oven for veering off the course last weekend and sustaining life threatening injuries that apparently will require a total replacement before any cooking can resume.  I guess the Couch Olympics will continue.

USA!  USA!  USA!