On Life Lately… Adventures in Baltimore, Philly, Boston and Other Stuff.
Things I am doing right this very second: sitting in a hotel bed in Seattle (it’s really comfy) because I set my alarm for east coast time since I’m a freak. I’m watching the baby kick out of my stomach like it’s doing some kind of crazy 1990s tae bo (Billy Blanks changed my world in ’99) and it’s the cutest thing because it bounces all around. I’m resisting the urge to eat some chocolate that is in my purse, 1. because it’s only 9:12am my time but 2. because it’s really only 6:12am where I’m actually at.
The past few weeks have been a whirlwind and this doesn’t even include all of it, but here is a teeny peek into what I’m been doing. I haven’t picked up my REAL camera in weeks – it weighs more than a toddler so I haven’t taken it on any trips with me (perhaps I should for practice?) – so these are all iphone snaps. Annnd maybe a few that I’ve stolen off of instagram from you.
A few weeks ago we celebrated Eddie’s birthday, which means we stuffed ourselves at meat and potatoes for brunch because, well… BRUNCH.
Eddie almost always gets the crazy chicken and waffles which consists of an ENTIRE chicken. I got the french toast because this entire pregnancy is like one giant carbcation when it comes to food. And fries to start, because when you can’t have cocktails at brunch, fries are the next best thing.
And when you can have cocktails at brunch, fries still come in at a very close second. Don’t pass them up! Pro tip.
Later that week I did a book signing at Penguin Bookshop here in Pittsburgh which was super fun. It’s a dreamy little bookstore that makes it seem possible for all of my dreams to come true. I almost died when the window outside looked like this.
I mean, is this real life?
Apparently it is and I can’t get over it so THANK YOU.
I mentioned it last week, but if you are looking for a signed copy of the book and can’t make it to a signing, I’ll be periodically signing books at Penguin and they will ship one to you! Just contact them.
Then I went to Baltimore! For approximately 12ish hours. The Baltimore Book Fest to be exact, which is exactly how I’d like to spend my Friday nights for the rest of my life. I’m not kidding. If this existed near me when I was 13 years old, I would have felt like I’d died and gone to heaven.
I cooked the amaretto butternut squash soup on the culinary stage with barely any utensils and pretended to blend it with an immersion blender even though those things are the bane of my existence and never work. I also burnt the croutons in front of everyone… AGAIN.
This is becoming a routine thing. I probably need a watch with a timer. Or just a brain that works.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record for the sixth week in a row, I loved loved loved meeting you guys. I love that you are filling up the #seriouslydelish hashtag on instagram and please continue to do so. I want to know what you’re eating.
And that way I can also steal your pictures and stuff, like I did here with this cute chick.
The next morning, we drove to Philly where I signed some books at Fantes kitchen shop. Cutest little shop ever – we could NOT get enough of the owner who was incredibly wonderful and their coffee granita/frozen cappuccino was the most wonderful thing I’ve tasted, like ever. Get one!
The expression on my face below, while horrifingly embarrassing, is how excited I am every time I get to meet you. It’s true. When Eddie comes to signing, he takes a lot of pictures and I cannot believe the faces I make. It’s terrible to think my face looks so wildly contorted the entire time I’m talking to you.
Speaking of my face, I was sweating it off here and thought I might melt into a puddle. The end of September was HOT!
After that, we ate cheesesteaks because we are the picture of health and then made then trek home. I am starting to become slightly uncomfortable since I’m ten thousand weeks pregnant, so in the car I recline the seat and lay on my side while attempting to stay buckled up. I have no other solution.
Except to eat the treats that you bring me.
I just have to say that you guys have brought me some TO DIE FOR food from your hometowns. THANK YOU. I do not expect that and am always blown away. And then on a sugar high. I have been trying to take pictures of everything but that has been an epic failure because we usually end up devouring it soon after. Cupcakes and cookies and homemade s’mores cakes and other delicious things that I can’t even fathom. And OMG THE DONUTS. So many donuts. I think I’ve experienced donuts in 14 cities in the last month. FABULOUS. All the caps.
In other news, I still take pictures on every flight because 1. I’m basic and 2. I’m too pregnant to sleep.
I’ve eaten pinkberry for dinner too many times to count. As long as I have a salad or some sort of greens for lunch or a small snack, I’m like OH I CAN EAT PROBIOTICS FOR DINNER! Airport pinkberry has become my lifeline. It’s sad when you know that’s a safe choice.
It’s just sooooo good.
Last week I went to the cutest little town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire for a project with Lindt Chocolate. I’ll tell you more about that later but I have never eaten so many truffles in my LIFE. Gahhh. It also might have included a shopping spree of the Lindt store (and a wine tasting – depression) and I have enough chocolate to last for years. I promise my entire world is not made up of dessert right now which is exactly how it seems.
I mean, taking pictures of other things just isn’t as fun.
I’m such a homebody that it’s hard to even express how much I miss getting to be HOME right now during my favorite season. I had a complete meltdown last week and was crying my eyes out wailing “I just want to decorate the house for FALL!”
But being in some of these gorgeous states where the season is in full swing has made it a lot better. I’ve taken many pictures of leaves on the ground because I find that to be important or something. And pretty! My camera roll is filled with over-saturated photos of crunchy foliage.
See? GREENS!
At the end of last week I signed copies of Seriously Delish in Boston. It was such an amazing day after a long week – I made more amaretto butternut soup but didn’t have to make the croutons (thank god) and also made the whipped goat cheese on toast with warm vanilla berries from the cover of the book.
The support you guys gave me here was incredible and it still blows my mind that you are showing up. THANK YOU FOR SHOWING UP.
I know that I keep saying it and I know that I’m overly emotional at the moment, but it is definitely challenging for me being away I can barely deal with my ridiculous appreciation to you for coming. During these talks/cooking demos/signings it takes a lot for me to not break down in tears, which I always want to blame on the bun in the oven but I don’t even think that’s it. For years, when I think about WHAT I get to do and HOW I get to do it because of YOU, I always get a little weepy.
Also, sidebar: one of the best parts of this is that you continue to ask me about makeup during book signings. And tell me about neon accessories. And your boyfriends are trekking to get books signed for you when you live hundreds of miles way. Hi true love.
I flew home for the weekend with these very important travel essentials.
Want to know a secret? I’m really into the williams sonoma pumpkin pecan pancake mix. My brother’s fiance told me about it and I had to grab it – I usually go for the Trader Joe’s pumpkin version but I haven’t made it there in months – and it’s to die for. At the moment, it’s easier to throw together than homemade pumpkin pancakes. Read: I can barely lift a finger when I’m at home. Laziness.
I prefer it in pancakes, but last weekend I tried it with waffles.
I still want the waffles crispier but sometimes waffles just do over pancakes, you know?
Annnnnd our backyard looks like this below. It’s so stunning and crunchy and wonderful. As I sit here in the hotel bed in Seattle all I’m thinking is that when I get home this coming weekend, I’m going to make it looked like autumn threw up ALL over our house. I mean – everywhere. It’s not like I’m that late, right? I’m also going to burn eight million fall candles since I’m a crazy candle lady. I almost packed one in my suitcase but I thought that was crossing a line. (and legally, it probably is.)
Last night I had an incredible book signing at Book Larder here in Seattle – EEEEK I can’t wait to tell you about it in the next few days. And this Thursday – I’ll be signing books at TWO places (oh dear please come keep me company) in San Francisco where I will continue to eat all the things and squeeze you to pieces.
In a few weeks my Wednesday posts will be back to their regularly scheduled programming, which is probably a laughable thing to say since in a matter of weeks I WILL HAVE A CHILD.
Hold me.
55 Comments on “On Life Lately… Adventures in Baltimore, Philly, Boston and Other Stuff.”
Sounds like you are having the time of your life! And how special that you can one day tell your baby that they came along with your for the ride ;) Although, I am sure you will having many book tours in your future! :)
Can’t WAIT to see you in DC in a few short weeks!!!!!
Good lord. So many typos in that comment. Ugh.
Ah! It was so so great to meet you. Also, I can’t wait to read Not That Kind of Girl and also want to know what you think of it.
Beautiful pics! The one that really caught my eye (because chocolate) is the chocolate brownie bar thingy. It looks kinda like a nanaimo bar, which is a thing of my childhood (grew up in Toronto). Have you ever had one? It’s all of the good things in the world in one place.
OHMYGOD, NANAIMO BARS! I grew up in Toronto (now live in NYC) and haven’t heard that word in YEARS. You just sent me way back to my childhood and now I’m googling all the recipes. (Hey Jess – think you could make those for us?!) :)
Your eyebrows kick serious ass! Gorgeous!
Whew! What a whirlwind if a post. Two things……there is never a wrong time for chocolate…like NEVER! And I get my waffles crispy by adding a bit of canola oil to the batter and preheating my Waring Pro waffle iron to the highest setting. Hang in there Girly. There is still plenty of time for autumn décor. But you simply MUST get the Bath and Body Works “pumpkin pecan waffles” candle. It’s just so delish. Promise!
You are seriously darling and your sweet mom was the best! She was glowing with pride and joy!! Thank you so much for coming to Seattle! it was a blast to listen to you speak (you are a kick!). I was in a little cook-book-geeked-out-heaven. :)
I really admire you for doing all of that while insanely pregnant! I was like “No thanks, I’m a whale now” for pretty much half of my pregnancy… :)
I never comment. But I’ve been reading for years and I just have to say You are so FRICKING cute! I cannot stand it! Everything you get is so well deserved!! So happy for you and so excited for your new life to start!! I can’t wait to see all the photos, hear about the experiences and see what new things you concoct!! Best Wishes!!!
I agree with Lora – your eyebrows look great. I wish so much that I could come to one of your signings! Maybe if you ever make it out to the Jersey Shore. Also, I cannot wait for you to have this child and then tell us all about it and share lots of pictures! Do you have names picked out?
You crack my sh*t up. I’ve never commented but you are SO real and I love it. Can’t wait to buy your cookbook.
You’re going to get a cooking show. I’m not saying I’m psychic or anything but I just got a pretty clear “Jess will get a cooking show” message so I’m delivering that now. There you go. (mic drop)
I’m taking a mental health day from work on Thursday to come to the Ferry Building signing! Can’t wait!!
I just love your blog posts and photography skills! You’re so “real” which is something that’s hard for many nowadays since we’re all trying to be like eachother. PLUS your photography skills are fantastic. Coupled together, they make for one lovely blog. xoxoxo!
I’ve been cooking through your book and it has all been so good! Those brussels!!! I almost wanted to go out and buy some more to make them, and eat them, all over again :)
I will not show my husband the photos from Meat and Potatoes he will die. Die. He is all about us up and going to Pittsburgh to eat there and see a Pens game now.
OMG Jessica. Love the picture! Thanks so much! It was so awesome to meet you. Looks like your other city adventures have been a ton of fun! Love these updates.
P.S. I made the chocolate peanut butter lovers brownies this week and they’re already gone. Oops! And I’ve had the acai bowls with cashew butter for my 2nd breakfast for the past 3 days hah…cannot get enough.
I am so upset I missed you while you were here in Boston! Ordering your cookbook for delivery as we (as I) speak (type) – AVZ
Please give us the deets on those shoes in the last picture!! Must have.
they are freebird by steven – but from two years ago.
I CANNOT WAIT TO MEET YOU NEXT WEEEEEEEEK!
Loved this post! All of it. So happy for you and THE CHILD that is coming. It’s a time like no other!!!
I really need to know more about the shoes/boots in the last photo. Really, really, really. :-)
they are freebird by steven – but from two years ago!!
Do you see that locked door in the Boston picture? I was standing behind it, pouting, because my bus was late and they wouldn’t let me in. WAH. I wanted to take obnoxious pictures and tell you that we’re secretly BFFs and that I fell in love with your blog when I was going to school in Pittsburgh and I’ve been reading it for YEARS.
GAHHHH i’m so sorry!! that stinks!
Kind of fangirling all over again at that picture of you in Fantes–I still can’t quite believe I got to meet you!! I have like, eighteen recipes bookmarked in your book (…in the first three chapters) to try over the next few weeks (new teaching job does not equal lots of time to cook).
oh my goodness, tell us more about those boots in the last photo!!
they are freebird by steven – but from two years ago!
I’m sure you’ve seen this by now, but on the off chance you haven’t, you REALLY need to read this: http://www.mcsweeneys.net/articles/its-decorative-gourd-season-motherfuckers It’s soooooo funny! And seasonally appropriate :)
omg this is amazing.
My favorite part of this post is the new term “Carbcation”. Love it! You are so fabulous.
Emily
http://www.workinggirlafterhours.com
Thanks so much for coming to visit us in Philly, loved loved loved meeting you!
Please please please write about Seattle! We are going in a week and I would love to have your recommendations. And I will be getting pinkberry at the airport, since there is not one in my hometown. Ditto on the cooking show, I think it’s happening!!
So bummed you aren’t coming down to New Orleans….these signings look like so much fun. And everyone else is wanting to know about the shoes, but I need to know about your super cute multi-colored scarf! Love it!
it’s from anthro – two years ago though – this is a similar one! http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/accessories-wraps/33203910.jsp#/
You are not a basic bitch! Don’t think I didn’t see that! You a badass bitch ;)
This is awkward if you weren’t referring to that College Humor video about being Basic…
xoxoxo!
You are hilarious and make my life better. :) Can’t wait to see pics of the babe!
Oh god I died at the airplane thing – Im basic. hahaha Oh Jessica, you always brighten my morning!
Since you are in SFO, you MUST go to the Farmer’s Market on Saturday at the Embarcadero. You MUST have the roasted chicken and the potatoes (the chicken fat from roasting drips down on the potatoes to roast them) and then have some of the Mexican food from (is it La Primavera) there at the Farmer’s Market. You will see it with the long lines of people waiting to eat it. The cheeses at the market are to die for too. It is a fabulous experience. Enjoy! Oh, and they have artists, jewlry vendors, etc. outside in front of the market (across the street). Fun, fun, fun!
We loved having you in Baltimore! I should have asked-HOW IN THE H-e-double hockey sticks do you peel a butternut squash? You didn’t show us that step, but I’m going to be adventurous and try it and if it doesn’t work, I bought some frozen cubes to use as well. I’m making it this week for dinner. I also made the roasted veggie fritatta yesterday. I almost signed up for twitter just to tell you that my husband and I LOVED IT!! Thanks..I’m 2/2 with your recipes so far and going strong. Thanks again. Love love.
Just wanted to tell you, I take a candle (the scent is beachy) to Florida with me every year. My sister and I love to sit out on the balcony (on the beach) in the early evening with a cocktail and burn the candle. I don’t think it’s illegal!!!!! :) WOW, a couple of weeks and you’ll have a baby. Boy did THAT go fast!!!!!
I’m so, so happy for you! It looks like you’re having an absolutely fantastic time and you completely deserve all the recognition and the success!
It’s completely legal to take candles with you on a flight! You can get those mini sizes to save room. I love taking one with me to mak’s travels seem a bit more like home!
Re: Timer–the simplest thing I have been doing is SO EASY: using my iPhone, I tell Siri, “set the timer for x minutes.” Works every time, and if you ask her to set it for more than an hour, she replies, “Timer is set, and the suspense is killing me!”
Hysterical!
Ahh, congrats on the book signings! :) And oh my gosh I’m obsessed with Pittsburgh.. that’s why I love following you. I really hope to move there within a year or so. I love your last photo with the fall leaves! <3
I can’t wait to see you in Chapel Hill next week and, I’ll totally admit, I’m probably going to cry b/c I’m so jealous of your life, but then again I’m so, so, so, so, so, so thrilled for you because you flipping DESERVE it and I’m just so happy that you’re so happy! Ugh. Is that weird? I swear I’m not a stalker. I’m just stupid emotional, and I cry over everything. Commercials, pretty singing voices…don’t even get me started on the movie August Rush! Also, people are bringing you food?!? Crap. Now I have to bring you something too. Yep. That’s happening.
I’m still overly excited to have met you yesterday in San Francisco! I love reading all your blog posts, and your recipes are just amazing! Living in San Francisco, we don’t get to see the leaves change colors and fall to the ground where I can then stomp all over them. It must be amazing to be able to see all that!
I LOVE YOUR FACE! I seriously died inside when you called my name from the corner of the bookstore (stalker) and I turned and saw you standing there! Made. My. Day. UGH! haha and your mom was adorable. I can’t wait for your SF mention in the crumbs!
I LOVE Portsmouth, I’m so glad you got to visit during the fall! It’s beautiful!
We drove from Ottawa, Canada see you, we being me (super big fan) and I dragged my friend Heather with me. Which admitted she thought you were so adorable and really down to earth. So glad the tour is going well. Great to meet you!
I’ve been thinking of reading Lena and Amy Poehler’s book. Just need to find some time!
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