Archive for August, 2008

Recommended: See You in a Hundred Years

Bryan August 11th, 2008

See You in a Hundred Years: Four Seasons in Forgotten AmericaSee You in a Hundred Years: Four Seasons in Forgotten America

Logan Ward, his wife Heather, and son Luther had had it. Living in New York City, jet setting around the world, hours in commuting time lost everyday, they weren’t living. They were merely existing. They chucked it all.

They uprooted their family from NYC and settled on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley. Typical spawlers you say? Not really. They’re growing all their own food. Did I mention neither of them has ever farmed before? Oh, and they’ve decided to shun all the advancements of the 20th century. No TV, no car, no tractor, no electricity, a phone only for safety. They assumed they’d be going it all alone, but they discovered that rural life then was heavily dependent on community. They found it near Swoope, Virgina.

WildrLog highly recommends this Bill Bryson-like look at 19th century country living through the eyes of Generation X. And it might just inspire you to plant a garden.

The world has never been the same

Bryan August 2nd, 2008

Thirtysome years ago today, this couple changed the world. She gave birth to a 6lb 7oz baby boy and the world has never been the same. Thanks mom and dad!

Prebirthday Dinner at Chappy’s on Church

Bryan August 2nd, 2008

Some friends asked me where I would like to have a birthday dinner. No hesitation… Chappy’s on Church. I’ve been wanting to eat there since I first heard about it. I’m not sure what it is about my palette that loves Creole and Cajun food. Must have had something to do with my trip to New Orleans when I was one.

Chappy is the Mobile, Alabama native who, in December 1984, opened up Chappy’s on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Almost 3 years ago, Chappy’s and his home were demolished by Hurricane Katrina.

Less than a year later, Chappy’s on Church opened in Nashville.

So, 7 friends, old and new, gathered last night at Chappy’s on Church for my birthday predinner.

House Salad with Creole Vinegarette. One taste of that tangy, spicy dressing and I knew I’d come to the right place.

Blackened Red Snapper with lumb crabmeat and rice. Melts in your mouth. It’s hard to find good Red Snapper inland, but I found some! Crowned with a glass of Concannon Pinot Nior.

Bread Pudding with Pecan Praline sauce. Wow!

Chappy visited our table twice during the evening. A delightful, neat guy. I’m glad you’re here Chappy!