The Potluck: January 2015

Back in October, I started a new feature to share some of favorite things. I’ve continued the tradition monthly ever since.

Basically, I’m sharing the latter definition of a potluck, as defined by Merriam-Webster.

the regular meal available to a guest for whom no special preparations have been made… a communal meal to which people bring food to share —usually used attributively <a potluck supper>; whatever is offered or available in given circumstances or at a given time.

Every month, I’m listing off of some of my favorite things. While they might not appear to be a traditional “meal,” I want to provide some different and interesting stuff (products/entertainment/links/etc.) I’ve recently loved in the hopes that y’all will enjoy them, too.

Here are some things I adored during the month of January:

The Potluck: January 2015 // The Speckled Palate

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    1. NPR’s Ask Me Another: I’m always on the lookout for new podcasts to enjoy as I work, and after hearing recommendations for this one on several others I listen to, I knew I had to try it out. And it’s totally worth it! It makes me laugh, and I kind of love all the games that include singing. Because that’s how I roll.

    2. RunKeeper (and daily walks): As a runner, it’s strange slowing down, but I’m doing my best to stay active! Lucy, Lady Baby and I have been walking most days, and it feels really good to get outside and explore our neighborhood. I love my RunKeeper app because it keeps track of our daily walks, and I’m looking forward to using it again when I can begin running after Lady Baby arrives.

    3. My new computer: Goodness, y’all. When you haven’t worked on a new (or new-ish) computer in more than five years, you forget what it’s like to have a fast machine. I made the decision at the end of December to spring for a new computer, as my old one was draaaaaaaaagging and on its final leg, and I am so glad I did. While the learning curve is steep and so many things have changed, I’m adoring the speed at which I can get tasks completed, least of all editing photos. It just goes SO much faster, and I absolutely LOVE that.

    4. Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain: This book has been on my to-read list for a while, and since I recently gave in and signed up for KindleUnlimited — I read too many books these days, so this program is awesome! — I’ve started reading this tell-all. As someone who has never worked in the restaurant industry, I find Bourdain’s point of view fascinating, and I love how his voice is consistent with how he talks and presents himself on his television shows. I’m looking forward to digging into this book more, even though I’m sure I’ll learn some unfortunate truths along the way.

    5. Le Creuset Forged Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Nonstick Shallow Fry Pan: Maybe all my old nonstick pans were less-than-perfect, but ever since I’ve started using this Christmas present, I’ve been blown away with what a fantastic pan it is. It does a fantastic job, and it is truly nonstick and so easy to clean!

    6. Organizing: Nesting has apparently made me want to organize EVERYTHING, and I’m currently in the process of getting everything in order for baby. Once we get Lady Baby’s room finished, I foresee myself going a bit crazy in our own room and in our family room. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that.

    7. Oreo Double Stuff Sandwich Cookies: Oh sweet mercy. Give them all to me. And a huuuuuuuuuge glass of milk to dunk them in.

    What did you love in the month of January?

    Curious about other things I’ve loved? Check out my other potlucks:

    2014: October | NovemberDecember 

    2015: January | February | March | May | June | July | August | September | November | December

    2016: January | February |March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December 

    2017: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

    2018: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

    2019: January | February/March | April | August

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    About the Author:

    Erin Parker is a Southern gal living in Texas with her husband and two daughters. She started The Speckled Palate to share what she was cooking as a newlywed… and over the years, it’s evolved to capture her love for hosting. Specifically, the EASIEST, lowest key entertaining because everyone deserves to see their people and connect over good food. Learn more about her

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    10 Comments

    1. First Double Stuffed Oreos is the ONLY way to go…the END! and I love run keeper as well, keeps me on track!

    2. I’ve had to stop running at this point in my pregnancy as well and it is killing me. I miss it so much, but walking does help a lot.

      1. I feel you, girl. I almost stopped running immediately since it was so hot in Dallas when I got pregnant, and I’m really looking forward to post-baby running. Here’s to us both walking until our babies arrive then hitting the pavement running!

    3. Evil. I love double stuffed Oreos, but I’m low carbing. Seriously, though…they’re the best cookies. I also wanted to organize ALL THE THINGS when I was pregnant.

      1. Seriously. They’re SO GOOD, and it makes me so sad that you’re currently low carbing it and cannot enjoy a Double Stuffed Oreo. I’d say I would enjoy one on your behalf, but I feel like that’s cruel…

        So glad I’m not the only one who wants to organize as my pregnancy nears its end!

      1. Thanks, Jessica! I appreciate it. The Lady Baby name just kind of happened organically, and we’ve continued with it because we think it’s so funny!

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