News, miscellany, and a Writin' Rations™

First, Margaret was absolutely stunning at the performance night for her Music from the Stage class. That kid really can sing, dance, and act. God knows she doesn't get it from me.

Second, Al Franken wins. He's good enough, he's smart enough, and doggone it, just enough of the voters of Minnesota like him. I'm relieved.

Third, the first post for Outlandish Voices the podcast is going up any day now — it's a great little story written and read by Richard Harland, very evocative and with some stunning characterization. And very entertainingly read, too! Watch this space for the official announcement.

Fourth, the Brits had this great idea with shepherd's pie, but they just didn't take it far enough. Make it with barbecue! I did. Big success. Here are 41 recipes, and not one of them mentions barbecue. Could I possibly be the first???

Fifth: a quick Writin' Rations™ for you.

Really Quite Good Couscous
1 cup couscous (dry)
1 cup boiling water
1 teaspoon cumin
4 cardamom pods
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 big handful of chopped-up dried fruit
1 tablespoon of butter
one half lime
1 big handful of pistachios

Put everything except the pistachios and the lime in a bowl and stir, preferably with a fork to separate the couscous grains, every two minutes or so until all the water is absorbed. If in doubt, let it sit another two minutes.

Pick out the cardamom pods — this is important to do before you put the pistachios in, because they look very similar!!!

Squeeze the juice from the half a lime over the couscous.

Add the pistachios and toss gently to combine.

That's it. Eat. And write good things.