#22 Jam out at the Roller Derby

Maybe a good look for me?

If you’ve seen the movie Whip It then I know you’ve at least had some sort of urge to throw on some quads and face paint and go knock some people around. I found it quite humorous that people’s first response upon hearing I was at the derby was, playing or watching? Now I’ve had my share of aggressive hobbies, a little roller hockey with the boys in the cul-de-sac, some rail sliding and grinding on the in-lines and then, of course, the tragic wrestling match in college that left me with a concussion. I’d like to say that I’m older and wiser now but that’s just too cliché and honestly just one bad (fun) idea away from being untrue.

So in the spirit of trying new things, JP and I headed to the Pavilion for a double header derby match, Dames of Destruction vs Victorious Secrets and Greenville Derby Dames vs Gate City Roller Girls. I was halfway expecting to experience a complete new sub culture of Greenville. True there were some interesting characters to be seen, no seriously there were actually 3 guys dressed as Storm Troopers, but for the most part the people seemed normal. Parents cheering on their children, husbands cheering on wives and I’m sure a few proud kiddos too. I know if I ever did decide to start a career as a derby chick, my parents would definitely be on the front row. Dad would probably even sponsor the team.

Speaking of destruction, I hope everyone survived the storms this past week. All can rest assure there’s one thing that I will never try, storm chasing.

On a side note, the 30x30 are nearing completion. I have most of the remaining 30 things lined up but I’m always open for suggestions. Just because the list ends, doesn’t mean the mischievous adventures have to as well.

#21 Start a Vegetable Garden

Tomato baby

For many years I avoided raw tomatoes. I’d watch in disgust as my mother and grandmother would slap a thick slice of tomato on two slices of bread (slathered with mayonnaise, salt and pepper, of course) and just eat away likes it’s the best thing since well, sliced bread. I would even order a BLT, hold the T. I just didn’t see the magic in tomatoes, unless of course they were processed into ketchup or spaghetti sauce. A few years ago I let my guard down and tried a caprese salad. I guess the tomato stars were in alignment that day because the combination was like a gravitational pull that wouldn’t let go.

Baby lettuces

So it only makes sense that growing tomatoes be a part of the 30x30 adventure. And for good measure, I  threw in some herbs and mixed lettuces as well. If you’ve never grown lettuce might I suggest that you try. My little plants are only a few weeks old and are several inches tall. Plus if you have purchased one of those $3-$4 bags of mixed greens lately, you can definitely appreciate the cost savings.

If only they made a bacon tree then I’d have the perfect garden. I just don’t think I’m quite ready for my house to become a complete pig sty, despite how it may look from time-to-time.

My favorite ways to eat a tomato:

Absolutely delicious

•  Straight up BLT with lots of mayo
•  Caprese on a baguette: toasted baguette slices topped with buffalo mozzarella, heirloom tomato, basil and a mix of salt, pepper, olive oil and balsamic vinegar
•  And yes, a Tomato Sandwich: tomato, mayo, salt and pepper

Snap dragons, lettuce, tomatoes,
herbs and morning glories (eventually)

By the way, special thanks to Mom and Dad for their help on the new garden. It was our special project during their visit last month.