Gambas Al Ajillo (Shrimp W/ Garlic) Catalonia

This is making me hungry

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
4-6 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (to taste)
4 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped
salt
fresh ground pepper

1. In a wide, shallow sauté pan over high heat, warm the Olive Oil and the Butter; add the Shrimp and Garlic and sauté quickly for about 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the lemon juice, paprika, pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings to your liking.

3. Transfer to a warmed serving dish, sprinkle with the parsley and serve at once.

clipped from www.recipezaar.com

Rugby World Cup: Week 2

Amidst cries of "Waltzing Matilda," "forza Italia," "allez les Bleus," and even "allez les Lelos (Republic of Georgia)" in my head, I cheered for the USA Eagles tonight. Having missed the real time televised match this morning at 8am DC time, I watched my recorded DVD of the match. How can we lose to Tonga? While home nations and the southern hemisphere giants slap the "minnow" status on us, how can we lose to one of the world's poorest nation?

On the other hand, I interviewed a PAC manager for my office today. I know it's just how business is done in DC, but I'm still mulling over her claim that political donations are"clean, good, and contribute to the political process." Perhaps political fundraising contribute to further partisan political purposes, but it certainly doesn't serve the greater interest of the republic.

Then again, what's the difference between Hillary Clinton collecting $3 million a night versus the local school board candidate raising $500 through a bake sale?

US v. England

The Eagles made their best showing in the World Cup today. While losing to Le XV de la Rose, the Americans made their most committed display against a top 10 side.

I wish we can stop being content by making a good showing against the world's rugby powers. But I am happy today.

World Cup Rugby 2007 in France!

With all my professional and academic commitments I am involved with, the Rugby World Cup all the sudden dropped into my life the last few days!

I always knew this year's tournament in France is fast-approaching, but I always had other matters occupying my life. However, today is the kickoff match between France and Argentina, to be played in Stade de France in Saint-Denis! I am very excited and wish I can attend matches in person. Nonetheless, with work and school taking up my time and my money, I'll have to be content with watching the matches on TV.

While the first match is to be played at 21:00 Paris time, I can't escape work at 3pm DC time to watch the match. I'll be catching the replay at 21:00 DC time at home.

The wait is killing me .....