tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67594051896044630592024-03-13T10:48:03.486-07:00Fox Valley BloggerPatrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-59618268548103935782022-09-12T19:04:00.000-07:002022-09-12T19:04:05.911-07:00Recipe Review: Sirloin Tip Roast<p> From time to time, people have said I'm a good cook. But I think of it more as finding good recipes. Recipes that don't have super complex ingredients and deliver good flavor. I enjoy the search. </p><p>For the last few years, we typically will get a bulk order of beef from a friend that raises steers. We are going to eat beef and it's our modest effort to buy local and lessen the impact. When you buy in bulk, you end up with some cuts of beef that can be a bit tougher to turn into something yummy that the family will enjoy. So I'm often searching for new recipes for those cuts and a thick and lean Sirloin Tip Roast can be in that category. </p><p>We are approaching that bulk purchase time of year again so I'm trying to empty out the freezer and decided I'd pull said roast from the freezer and look up a recipe. It was a rainy weekend so it seemed like a good chance to fill up the house with that classic pot roast aroma. </p><p>This <a href="https://sundaysuppermovement.com/dutch-oven-pot-roast/#recipe" target="_blank">recipe</a> from Sunday Supp Movement really did the job. It was pretty straightforward. I only needed to grab a few items from the store to make it happen. I used the <a href="https://www.pamperedchef.com/shop/Cookware+%26+Bakeware/Grill/RockcrokDutch+Oven/3140" target="_blank">Rock Crock Dutch Oven</a> from Pampered Chef for all the steps. It worked out really nicely to sear the roast, saute the onions, deglaze with wine and then put the rest of the ingredients into the oven. And no tough clean up because like most Pampered Chef items it's dishwasher safe. I used the super-handy <a href="https://www.pamperedchef.com/shop/Favorites/Favorites/Mix+%27N+Chop/2583" target="_blank">Mix 'n Chop</a> to get the beef shredded while letting the sauce reduce down a bit on the stove after the 3.5 hour bake. Turned out pretty tender and flavorful like an open faced beef sandwich using up some left over hamburger buns. </p><p>Sorry, no photos of this cook. Didn't cross my mind. Maybe next time. </p>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-6914561476649046402022-08-15T20:30:00.008-07:002022-09-05T18:27:38.164-07:00Good Local Gamer Help<p> Gotta mention the quality service we received at a couple local electronics/repair stores recently. We had a Nintendo Wii U game-pad that hadn't worked for years. I had essentially assumed my children's poor handling of the device over years resulted in a faulty charging connection. After letting the device sit dormant for a few years, we decided to get it checked out to see if we could get it repaired. </p><p>We initially reached out to local gamer store <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pressstartgamesllc" target="_blank">Press Start</a>, a place I had never visited and they said they don't really do repairs and suggested we contact a local repair shop called <a async="" crossorigin="anonymous" href="https://www.ubreakifix.com/locations/appleton?utm_source=google&utm_medium=gmb&utm_campaign=appleton" script="" src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-0245498408594643"></a></p>target="_blank">UbreakIfix. They took the device in for an assessment at no charge and a couple weeks later we got a phone call about the results. They said, "The charger is bad, we tried a different charger and it worked fine." Skip ahead skip ahead I take the kids to the store to pickup the device and the guy at the register basically says the same thing and hands us the device with no charge. He said we could maybe find a new charger on E-Bay or Amazon but for the heck of it I tried calling back to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pressstartgamesllc" target="_blank">Press Start</a> gamer store. <p>The employee on the phone explained they have USB Wii U chargers for about eight bucks. Another ten minutes across town and we had the charger cord in hand and a few minutes later we had arrived home and the Wii U game-pad charged just fine on the USB cord and my kids enjoyed hours of Wii U games after not having access for several years. </p><p>A big thanks to a couple local stores treating a family fairly and providing a quality solution. Thanks!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-29706536604842286752022-08-14T19:53:00.008-07:002022-08-14T20:18:00.020-07:00Product Review: Cuisinart Deep Fryer<p> Hey Folks,</p><p>I'm dusting off the old blog and we'll see if it sticks. But for now I'm hoping to share some content and maybe, hopefully, it's helpful to someone. </p><p>The last few years I've considered cooking to essentially be my hobby. I enjoy trying to make good, reasonable food for my family. Nothing elaborate but basically simple and tasty (I hope). And sometimes a little bit healthy. </p><p>My younger son enjoys some fried foods and frankly so do I. At one point during the pandemic, he said, "Dad, we should get a deep fryer." A few minutes later, I visited Amazon and found this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CDF-200-Fryer-quart-Stainless/dp/B01JCECNM2/ref=sr_1_3?crid=CVOJ052VSDHC&keywords=deep+fryer+cuisinart&qid=1660530806&sprefix=deep+fryer+cuis%2Caps%2C176&sr=8-3" target="_blank">Cuisinart Deep Fryer </a>. A couple clicks later we are waiting for delivery. </p><p>So it's been about a year, and I gotta say it was a pretty good purchase. I've made french fries a few times, donuts, chicken tenders & shrimp. Not a ton of use because I prefer to use it outdoors to avoid filling up the house with fryer fragrance. But it's been easy to take out when needed to get some of that guilty pleasure deep fried goodness at home. We hope to try chicken wings in the near future and the panko shrimp (last photo) was super yummy. </p><p>It basically fills up with one jug of oil and pretty basic controls. Takes about 10-15 minutes to heat up to desired temp and the basket holds a decent amount. Typically takes about two "batches" of whatever I make to have enough for four. Fries, pre-frozen chicken tenders, shrimp all cook in just minutes after the oil comes to temp. </p><p>I hope to share some recipes and photos of cooking outcomes in the future. Stay tuned to the blog eh! But first, I wanted to start by reviewing a piece of equipment. Happy Sunday. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3XZSYZ0NYKcntqs0jXoiMDhTXzyqg60536wSarFqssyZtHZJT8qOUgQNRglub18rn9qqb6QkwGm8v2x-OwORp5Xscnnywu0ZPocU1USbXlSlvb81pu6xL3RhQdNC2RDCCgla9PrlC8WXxS-0TFj1snXMpZg8BktufMnsf_d2CqZb03-NjADxdxIK/s4032/PXL_20220724_160807494.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3XZSYZ0NYKcntqs0jXoiMDhTXzyqg60536wSarFqssyZtHZJT8qOUgQNRglub18rn9qqb6QkwGm8v2x-OwORp5Xscnnywu0ZPocU1USbXlSlvb81pu6xL3RhQdNC2RDCCgla9PrlC8WXxS-0TFj1snXMpZg8BktufMnsf_d2CqZb03-NjADxdxIK/s320/PXL_20220724_160807494.MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZotu-pY9RKTTBJrukcfSp4wF_wTN8gYwDO67yU2VBh--ow10GME4RPszyk1KI5Xq9iH1CreXNpoGGQWg3FwGUXGRHmQORidWo2sXzWgr-oce3VI9swy8knnafHGulJylCgaWBjo4nzc8L-MFe3qsMZWCYVI5fSWFCshCfOayAoPPYgS60Ygw4jss4/s4032/PXL_20220724_163401364.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZotu-pY9RKTTBJrukcfSp4wF_wTN8gYwDO67yU2VBh--ow10GME4RPszyk1KI5Xq9iH1CreXNpoGGQWg3FwGUXGRHmQORidWo2sXzWgr-oce3VI9swy8knnafHGulJylCgaWBjo4nzc8L-MFe3qsMZWCYVI5fSWFCshCfOayAoPPYgS60Ygw4jss4/s320/PXL_20220724_163401364.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6lRxkmVUfgXgO7Qn_ogNhLxn71aI4bKTTJnED3GLkKnkPU0hdLInfdaX7aU-GbC1rkqzq7f8HK2Ulp6k2jbCJyYQosWCtcvycDhR5k_aGR0V_oRjuQIeIZw7VWWep_1D4EWZBtWpNRItn8eqJgflVFwCaQyRRUwPxj_hMcHp6A0MKDktlxlVuc_Z2/s4032/PXL_20220802_222214636.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6lRxkmVUfgXgO7Qn_ogNhLxn71aI4bKTTJnED3GLkKnkPU0hdLInfdaX7aU-GbC1rkqzq7f8HK2Ulp6k2jbCJyYQosWCtcvycDhR5k_aGR0V_oRjuQIeIZw7VWWep_1D4EWZBtWpNRItn8eqJgflVFwCaQyRRUwPxj_hMcHp6A0MKDktlxlVuc_Z2/s320/PXL_20220802_222214636.MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9kiO4iL7qj6f9KVXPdGmpWIpMxCMeuSoFhgZInMVadkZmlLgEm43dTKRZRIFtu0OsNeWEjtRelrDfb260R4495mfS4S79aJc0bbvyK8ONvXQ6-FdoWZFGf1v9ebmNQ-dQuP4qd2X8w8e95_y6DvYjUGcvu1BawzNkawnU6x8JAH9wZ_03BjCDz4G3/s4032/PXL_20220809_235029748.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9kiO4iL7qj6f9KVXPdGmpWIpMxCMeuSoFhgZInMVadkZmlLgEm43dTKRZRIFtu0OsNeWEjtRelrDfb260R4495mfS4S79aJc0bbvyK8ONvXQ6-FdoWZFGf1v9ebmNQ-dQuP4qd2X8w8e95_y6DvYjUGcvu1BawzNkawnU6x8JAH9wZ_03BjCDz4G3/s320/PXL_20220809_235029748.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-13418364671999925052022-05-01T16:20:00.001-07:002022-05-01T16:20:58.354-07:00Fox Valley Blogger: Post Packer Draft 2022<p> The most hyped "draft" event of all major sports wrapped up this weekend. I am resurrecting the old blog today to share some thoughts on my local team. There is a nice summary of the picks <a href="https://packerswire.usatoday.com/lists/closer-look-at-the-green-bay-packers-2022-draft-picks/" target="_blank">here</a> if you are looking for more info. </p><p>Clearly, most Packer fans (including myself) were expecting the Packers to take a WR early in the draft after the departure of star WR Davante Adams who was traded to the Raiders earlier in the off-season. Day 1 of the draft probably left many Packer fans disappointed and scratching their heads. The Packers went after defense early with two first round picks taking an ILB & DL from defensive powerhouse Georgia. After the initial shock wore off, I started to come around to really like these picks. For years, the Packers' front seven on defense has always had some holes to fix and it seems the Packers have finally buttoned up what looks to be a solid defense. Also worth noting, there was a pretty early run on the top WRs in the draft which likely impacted the Packers' decision making process when they found themselves on the clock. Thus Day 1 ended with the Packers still not adding any WR talent to the team. </p><p>At this point in the relatively new 3-day draft schedule, it's a good time to sit back and remember the advice of Aaron Rodgers from years ago. Relax. So much emphasis is placed on these first round draft picks every year but in reality, the first round will produce a handful of solid players. Maybe a few All Pros. But generally speaking, this is the tip of the iceberg for team building. The Packers still had 9 more picks to work with. </p><p>Finally! The Packers did some maneuvering and moved way up in the 2nd Round of the draft (courtesy of the Minnesota Vikings). They snagged one of the top WR prospects in the draft Christian Watson from North Dakota State. Tall, fast & from a cold weather school, there's lots to like about Christian Watson wearing the green and gold and pairing up with future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers. Two solid additions to defense and a solid WR prospect and the Packers were just getting started. The manuevering cost the Packers their other 2nd round pick and a 3rd round pick so now a rather long stretch before their next pick. </p><p>From there, the Packers went on to really fortify their roster. Adding more WR talent ultimately drafting 3 total WRs. And you can never have too many good lineman right? After some roster turnover on the offensive line, the Packers kept with their philosophy of adding versatile, athletic offensive lineman to the roster with 3 offensive line picks to add nice options for the 2022 season. And not only that, they also added another outside pass rusher where they needed more depth and a physical safety/LB type that can probably help on special teams right away, where the Packers desperately need more sizzle. </p><p>All said and done, I think most Packer fans have to be pretty pleased with the draft picks. Almost all seem to already fit into some kind of role for the team and the organization continues to add athletic freaks to their roster with good size and speed. I know I'm really looking forward to seeing the defense, which has generally been considered a weakness throughout Aaron Rodgers' career, turn into a strenghth for this team. Pair a Hall of Fame QB with some weapons and a top 5 (potentially) defense??? I like the Packers chances in 2022. Go Pack Go. </p>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-39270309684247057162020-09-30T13:55:00.002-07:002020-09-30T13:59:11.996-07:00Recipe Review: Pork Carnitas<p> If you are at all like me, you are always seeking out new recipes to try and get great flavors at home. Especially since COVID restricted our access to dining out, I have been more motivated than ever to try new recipes at home. </p><p>The use of this <a href="https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/219048/pork-carnitas/" target="_blank">Pork Carnitas</a> recipe was prompted by noticing how inexpensive pork shoulder roasts can be at the store. Sometimes they are on sale and I'm buying 3-4 lbs of meat for just a few bucks. Especially when compared to the cost of beef nowadays and some items being harder to come by during the pandemic. </p><p>Couple that with my appetite for anything "taco" related and this recipe turned out to be a good match for me. I mean, I would do tacos / nachos etc. just about every day of the week if I had to. I love those flavors. </p><p>This recipe in my opinion is pretty much spot on. My first run came out a bit salty so I tried low sodium chicken broth as an alternative but that didn't help much. The initial step in the recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of Kosher salt on a 4 pound roast. I have decided to do about 1/2 of that salt to start and have a roast sitting on the stove right now. I'll be curious to see if that helps reduce the salt flavor. </p><p>One of my favorite things about this recipe is the finishing step. I've cooked so many things in a crock pot or something similar and you just never quite get that crisp finish that I like to have on some types of food. For example, I love the crunchy, burnt parts on steaks and ribs. This recipe has you finish the pork in the oven for about 1/2 hour to help get some of those crispy ends that many of us like so much. </p><p>I have since used that method on a couple other recipes that came out a bit too "soft" at the end. Just take that shredded meat into a baking pan or cookie sheet and give it some time in the oven. </p><p>Hopefully you enjoy this one as much as we do. Kudos to the original cook posting. </p><p><a href="https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/219048/pork-carnitas/">https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/219048/pork-carnitas/</a></p><p><br /></p>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-61986063255164212152020-09-10T07:54:00.005-07:002020-09-10T07:55:55.490-07:00Book Report: Live, Love, and Hack Life - A Fresh Look at Understanding Law of Attraction<p>For full disclosure, I purchased this book because I know the author. Jennifer Teske is my cousin's wife and I wanted to support her efforts on her first book. With that said, here are my thoughts. The book can be purchased on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Live-Love-Hack-Life-Understanding-ebook/dp/B08517ZTYR/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=jennifer+teske&qid=1599748544&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Live-Love-Hack-Life-Understanding-ebook/dp/B08517ZTYR/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=jennifer+teske&qid=1599748544&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2R5DiHFgDlQ/X1o5f_oBzKI/AAAAAAAAaXU/aR5dpHf1wxQBlxcuPEITzr2nOrVoAbGeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Book%2BCover.jpg" /></a></div>The book generally would be considered a self-help type of read. Prior to reading this book, I had no idea what "Law of Attraction" was. My assumption was that it related to relationships with others but I was wrong. Law of Attraction, put simply, refers to a concept of being able to bring your wants and needs into your life and the steps you can take to make it happen. <div><br /></div><div>I think the author does a nice job explaining her background on the topic as well as weaving her personal story into the book to help the reader understand the author's mindset. She also provides some nice, simple and relatable steps you can take to foster your own growth. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of my biggest takeaways from the book was a concept I had never really considered until I read this book. The author explains we are often focused on goals that we need to achieve and the steps needed to get there. However, we are rarely looking at improving our own self as a step in that process. Essentially, it's important to focus on improving yourself as an important step to achieving any goals. <br /><div><br /></div><div>Ultimately, it's a pretty easy read that I found helpful. If you are interested in ways to help bring your goals into focus or making changes in your life and/or lifestyle, I think this book can provide some helpful steps and tips on getting there. And I'm not just saying that because I know the author 😄. I'm glad I read the book. </div><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-43152365316577959262020-08-11T05:56:00.000-07:002020-08-11T05:56:33.185-07:00My Covid Test Was Negative<p>The last few days of July, I began to feel a tightness in my chest. I had no other symptoms besides feeling pain in my chest cavity if I took a deeper than normal breath. So I chalked it up to being old and possibly have tweaked a muscle or cartilage in or near my rib cage. </p><p>But it worsened. It really felt like there was a harness strapped around my chest that was preventing me from taking deep breaths. Amazingly, I think my body was able to shut down the need for yawns or sneezing for 2-3 days while I was experiencing this pain. Then I started to look up some COVID-19 symptoms as this clearly was more serious than a muscle pull. I noticed some folks would say it felt like someone was sitting on their chest. As it relates to trying to take a deep breath, I would agree with this. I was growing pretty concerned about my inability to breath normally. This was something I had never experienced before. </p><p>By now, it was Saturday, August 1st. I felt like I had made a slight improvement in my chest pain, so I was hopeful that I was on the way to recovery from this mysterious chest pain. But that's when other symptoms began to set in. I should mention, throughout this process, I was checking my temperature regularly and never experienced an official fever. So, back to last weekend. I started to experience body aches and difficulty regulating my temperature. I would alternate between chills and sweats and the body aches worsened. </p><p>Now that I had multiple symptoms, and I normally don't get very sick, I decided to reach out to my doctor's office. I don't think I've used a sick day at my job for 3+ years but I was about to. I called the office on Sunday, August 2nd. Obviously they would be closed but they did have an answering service take my information and the on-call doctor called me back. She explained I should get a COVID test the following day and provided some instructions for the next steps. Meanwhile, the only treatment available was over the counter cold / flu medicine per the doctor to help alleviate symptoms. </p><p>Four phone calls and one Zoom meeting later, I was able to get tested in the parking lot of my doctor's office on Monday, August 3rd. Despite the many examples of tests taking several days to get results, I was pleasantly surprised my test results were back in almost exactly 24 hours from when I was swabbed. I was thoroughly convinced that I had COVID-19 and had spent the last few days wondering how you go about self-quarantine when you have a family around you, who would I have to notify? What about my employer? Needless to say, I was a bit surprised when the nurse said my test result was negative. Instead of relief, I was confused. I told the nurse I was surprised compared to the severity of my symptoms and that's when she said: "Well, it does have a 30% false negative rate". </p><p>That left me a bit shocked. I went through a fair amount of effort to get this test done. I wanted to get tested due to my concern for the health and safety of others. I have repeatedly heard about how great our testing has become in the USA. But 30% false negative rate? That sure didn't seem very reliable. It left me doubting the accuracy of ANY numbers that we Americans see regarding this pandemic. </p><p>So here I sit. Roughly two weeks since I first had symptoms and I can say I was covid-negative. I wanted to share my experience in case it's helpful for others. I also wanted to share my symptoms and explain that I am in my early 40's, male, with no underlying health conditions and the difficulty I had breathing was very alarming. When I consider how that may impact someone who has asthma or some other underlying condition, I can understand 100% how this could escalate and create serious complications for people. </p><p>Lucky for me, with 70% accuracy, I didn't have COVID-19. Also wanted to note: My family has been generally cautious during the pandemic. No restaurants and bars for us. We mask up. But I still got sick from "something". </p>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-24637121573972679992017-03-26T08:18:00.002-07:002017-03-26T08:28:02.443-07:00Book Report: When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince LombardiI just finished reading <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FC0WOC/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank">When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince Lombardi</a>. The book was published in 1999 and as a life-long Packer fan who also enjoys reading history books, I'm frankly surprised it took me this long to get it read. <br />
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Ultimately, a very good read. I always knew of Lombardi as the highly successful coach of the Green Bay Packers for whom the Superbowl trophy is named after. Most people are likely familiar with one of Lombardi's most famous sayings: "Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing." This was pretty much the extent of my knowledge of the man. He was a legendary coach with his famous Green Bay Packer sweep play and had multiple hall of fame players. That pretty much summed up my knowledge of Vince Lombardi. <br />
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What this book helped me understand, is that Vince Lombardi was a much more complex person. His famous phrases were just tidbits of a greater picture that really was focused on being your best. Regardless of your profession, Lombardi's belief was to get the most of out people and push them beyond their limits to realize greatness. It wasn't just about winning at football, it was about winning at life. <br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FC0WOC/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank"><img alt="When Pride Still Mattered: A Life Of Vince Lombardi by [Maraniss, David]" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51-FiNOsKqL.jpg" /></a><br />
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The reader is given insight into Lombardi's childhood and growing up in a large Italian family from New Jersey. He attended religious schools and played sports along the way. Discipline was instilled in the young man by Jesuit priests. I found it valuable to learn about his days at Fordham University and how despite his smaller stature, he was a valuable member of a successful college team. I never realized he had spent significant time waiting for his opportunity to become a head coach. He was an assistant at Fordham, West Point and the New York Giants before becoming the Packers head coach. <br />
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The author also does a nice job providing insight into Lombardi's beliefs on social issues that were affecting the daily lives of Americans during his career as a coach. While some teams and parts of the country were not quite ready to welcome diversity, Lombardi was ahead of his time. He didn't seem concerned about color of skin. Or even if there were doubts about someone's sexual preference. He treated people equally and fairly. He was more concerned about a person's character and work ethic than anything that would resemble prejudice. <br />
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I also found it interesting to gain insight into his role as a father, business man and public speaker. I had already respected Vince Lombardi for his success as a football coach. But now my respect is stronger and greater as I have a better understanding of what made him so successful. I believe any coach or "leader" should read this book. And I would suggest every member of the Green Bay Packers be given a copy when they join the team. I'm glad I read it in the "better late than never" category. <br />
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<br />Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-52392653607878629252017-02-12T11:35:00.000-08:002017-02-12T11:35:55.429-08:00Plae Bistro Lives Up To The Hype<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For several years I have been hearing people talk about how much they like Green Bay's east side restaurant <a href="http://plaebistro.com/" target="_blank">Plae Bistro</a>. I was excited to finally be able to make it there for dinner Friday night. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The restaurant is located in a strip mall facility but there isn't any strip mall feel to the interior. They have done a nice job creating a cozy environment with a modern, upscale circular bar surrounded by booths and tables. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A number of items on the menu were tempting. One of my favorite indulgences is having a nice rib-eye and I've been told Plae's rib-eye is very good. Since I tend to enjoy the steaks I can make at home, I opted for something I wouldn't expect to make at home. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was described on the menu as follows: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">+1 Ahi tuna</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">8oz. +1 (sashimi grade) ahi tuna fresh from Honolulu, HI, grilled <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">RARE</span>, soy ginger grapefruit sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To accompany the Ahi tuna, I chose the risotto. The food was all very good. Ok, to be honest, it almost looked as if I had licked my plate clean by the time I was done. The tuna was blackened and cooked nicely. The exterior was seared while the rare cook allows the tuna to just melt away. The sauce had a great deal of flavor that eventually gave way to an almost spicy barbecue vibe. The risotto was chicken and mushroom flavored and actually went very well with the tuna. Again, no shortage of flavor to the risotto. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The service was solid and the drinks were well made. The only negative worth mentioning was that our table had seven guests yet we were served only six bread rolls. The spread and dip for the bread was a nice starter but again it seemed odd to leave us with only six rolls for seven people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Their full menu can be found <a href="http://plaebistro.com/menu/" target="_blank">here</a> and I would be happy to go there again. The atmosphere is first rate (and even has some flat screens in the bar area for sports viewing) and was only outdone by the flavors to be had. A nice upscale dinning experience with reasonable pricing. </span></div>
Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-55588333084732719892012-10-08T16:27:00.002-07:002012-10-09T15:14:45.360-07:00Trip to Little Farmer Orchard - Fond Du Lac WI With two young boys our house can feel awfully small and time flies by week to week and there you sit w/ another week gone by without finding too many activities for the little guys. Upon the advice of my wife's co-worker, we ventured towards Fond Du Lac to visit <a href="http://www.mytlf.com/">Little Farmer Orchard</a>. <br />
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It was a nice fall day travelling southbound from Appleton on HWY 55 enjoying the fall colors and view of Lake Winnebago. That alone was just about worth the 45 minute trip enjoying the fantastic foliage Wisconsin has to offer this time of year. <br />
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The first thing that impresses about Little Farmer is the size of the operation. While I was expecting to visit a basic Wisconsin farm open to the public, this place had parking attendants directing traffic and hayride tractors going by. Suddenly I knew this was a big operation. I continued to be impressed by observing there was no admission fee to enter the farm. <br />
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With all the parking attendants and restrooms I just simply assumed we'd have a modest admission to pay. Access was free and you only paid for activities like a hay ride, the corn maze or food / gift items. It was quite refreshing to visit such a nice location with no admission fee which had access to a unique farm themed playground, animals, orchards and pumpkin patch. Later in the day there was live music and still plenty of traffic arriving at the farm. <br />
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While we couldn't stay as long as we would've liked (or were prepared for), we definitely plan to make a return trip knowing now what the atmosphere is like. <br />
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Don't take the stroller in the corn maze FYI. <br />
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Packing a lunch may be a good idea as its a great location for a family picnic.<br />
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All things considered, a fun family day at low cost that didn't involve TV, movies or video games. Just farm fresh air and outdoor play time. Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-44221785533323478432012-04-10T14:04:00.001-07:002012-04-10T14:08:20.310-07:00Kensington Grille SatisfiesWith young children, opportunties to have a nice dinner out with your spouse can be few and far between. <br />
Therefore, I am typically reluctant to try a new restaurant at the risk of having a less than satisfactory meal during one of these precious evenings. <br />
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That's why I am pleased to share our positive experience while dining at the Kensington Grille in Appleton recently. <br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/63/942259/restaurant/Green-Bay/The-Kensington-Grille-Appleton"><img alt="The Kensington Grille on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/942259/minilink.gif" style="border:none;width:130px;height:36px" /></a><br />
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I had the grilled ahi tuna over wasabi risotta and it was absolutely delicious. The waitress was very helpful and knowledgeable about the entrees. <br />
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We also sampled the clam chowder which was delicious as well. <br />
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Overall, my wife and I were very pleased and definitely look forward to going there again. It provided an atmosphere of fine dining while having reasonable prices and what I considered bigger portions than your typical fine dining experience. <br />
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Here is their website and it happens to be convienently located near a wine bar as well. <br />
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<a href="http://www.thekensingtongrille.com/">http://www.thekensingtongrille.com/</a>Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-29885868458702361242012-01-13T10:58:00.000-08:002012-01-13T10:58:31.954-08:00Found Some Really Good Hot DogsToday I tried this angus beef Oscar Mayer hot dogs. And let me tell you they were delicious. If you are looking for a hot dog that is pretty close to those awesome "Lambeau Dogs" at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, then you should try these. Here is a link to the product page.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/oscarmayer/hot-dogs/angus-selects.html">http://www.kraftbrands.com/oscarmayer/hot-dogs/angus-selects.html</a> <br />
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So good I had to write about it. <br />
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TGIFPatrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-55468809873100926752012-01-12T18:21:00.000-08:002012-01-12T18:21:35.559-08:00Hot Stuff At The Appleton YMCAToday I took my son to the downtown YMCA in Appleton for his sunfish swimming lessons.<br />
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My wife and I decided to register with this particular YMCA because they have a pool for kids that is heated. They aren't messing around with the heat either. <br />
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At first it seemed nice to step into such a warm pool but it didn't take long for my son and I to overheat. He is a 2-year old that loves water and ultimately wanted to leave the pool and go home. As I looked at his beet-red face, I could only conclude that the temperature had gotten to him. <br />
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Then finally as we made our way through a standard Wisconsin snow storm to our car, I started to feel a bit light-headed and my rear view mirror indicated my face was beet-red also. <br />
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Hopefully the YMCA turns it down a notch on the small pool. I think we'll give it another shot next week but then would have to consider taking our business elsewhere. Everyone there was very nice, my first trip to this YMCA, but the temperature was simply too much. <br />
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Just a heads up to my fellow parents out there. Patrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6759405189604463059.post-70911183418695075712012-01-10T18:33:00.000-08:002012-01-10T18:33:12.238-08:00Fox Valley Blogger Day 1Welcome to Day 1 of the Fox Valley Blogger. <br />
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I'm just a middle aged man looking to post some thoughts. I live in an area referred to as the Fox Valley named for the Fox River in Northeast Wisconsin. Hence the name.<br />
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I thought perhaps it may be wise to refer to something more local in the title in the chance I may use this blog to write about things local to my area in addition to other topics.<br />
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Who knows how much or little this may get used. But at any rate, it now exists.<br />
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Regards,<br />
Fox Valley BloggerPatrick T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16073853812334394992noreply@blogger.com