We are 21 days into this challenge, and we are fatigued. We've had some unexpected obstacles, such as Mike leaving town for a few days, my suddenly very busy work schedule, and some parties. There have been a few transgressions.
While Mike was out of town we all know he relished in fast food and barbeque. In the meantime I held true to the challenge, but was later derailed at my dad's retirement party. I didn't want to be rude, and who has the iron will to turn down a free meal at Metropolitan Grill when the 30 other guests are chowing down? Since I had cooked a homemade dinner and eaten it already, I didn't feel that the infraction was grave.
We attended a benefit party for Springfield Little Theatre tonight, which was catered by Ocean Zen, Flo, and 5 SPice. Again, what was the sense in being rude? The open bar weakened our resolve and we weren't an hour in before we were hitting the buffet lines. We love all three of those restaurants, so we ate like starved hyenas.
Honestly, we weren't even hungry. We had made a homemade meal, which we enjoyed as a family, before the party. Tonight we made my very favorite meal in the world: pork tenderloin sandwiches. All you need to start this meals is a warm loaf of french bread.
I used the second loaf of homemade bread our friend Jane gave us. It smelled glorious as it warmed in the oven.
Next step, thinly slice a red onion. Add the onion, warmed leftover pork, and some lettuce to the bread.
Here comes the most important step, so read carefully. You must pour on a boatload of Newman's Own dressing.
If you have done it properly, the dressing will run down your arms and drip off your elbows as you eat.
Now you have the perfect sandwich. Mmm... I want another right now!
In the interest of full disclosure, you now know about our indescretions. Our cards are on the table. We know we're not perfect. After 21 days, though, it would silly to give in. We are resolved to venture forth with contrite hearts, making the final 9 days of Home Cook Challenge the best yet.
