happy new year's!

spent it fairly quietly, went to church and hung out at home with family. tried to break into lab (not sure why my card key isn't working, again! i think it's a hint that i shouldn't go to lab. ;) hopefully my cells won't overgrow and commit suicide) in this stormy weather. i can't wait until it stops raining.

i discovered the men's section at banana republic. ooh, the sales... i never thought it's fair how much more expensive women's clothing is. and the cheap cashmere that's not form fitting but extremely comfortable... fell in love with this sweater for a future boyfriend of mine. teehee. it was luxurious cashmere. i love the vintage look of these tees as well.

kinda sad how the holiday season is ending as well. safeway was having a 50% sale on all holiday items, so i bought egg nog, crackers and cheese spread, and unfiltered apple cider (only $3) for hot mulled apple cider. it's simmering on the stove here, i highly recommend ina garten's recipe (from barefoot contessa). here tis: (italics are my suggestions)

• 16 cups pure apple juice or fresh apple cider
  
• 4 (2-inch) cinnamon sticks
  
• 2 oranges, peels and juice (can possibly eliminate some of the peels, it adds a sort of bite to it. be sure not to get the white part of the peel but mostly the orange. i thought oranges would actually make it more sour, but it adds a delightful sweetness and depth to the cider.)
  
• 8 whole cloves (add more for more of that mulled spicy fragrance)
  
• 6 star anise (a bit hard to find, i found mine at dean and deluca in napa valley, but you can taste the licorice note in the cider)
  

Combine in a saucepan. Heat, simmer for 10-15 min, and serve in mugs. You can also add a dash of dark rum. ;) I left mine to simmer for a bit longer mostly to make the house smell like mulled spices. yum!