Last night the boy and I were lucky to attend a fantastic event, Taste of the Nation. As I was falling asleep last night, I was composing a thoughtful post in my head about the event and planned to post that today. Then, this morning, I woke up with a possible case of swine flu. (Okay, I know I don’t have swine flu, but I do have many of the symptoms). Still, I am on my death couch with a terribly sore throat and really hurty lungs.

Instead, I’ll tell you – it’s a really great event, for a very worthy cause. You should buy tickets RIGHT NOW (if there is one in your area).

My 3 favorite things I sampled:

1. Belgian Sugar Waffle with Bacon, Brie and Basil from the Waffle Window- The boy and I shared this, I wish I had gotten my own
2. Tuna Tartare from Alberta Street Oyster Bar – I’m a sucker for tuna tartare, and this one was fantastic.
3. Mole Guerrerense from Autentica – I’ve always turned my nose up at Mole, but oh my goodness, this was good.
4. And, oh crap, one more – Fig Bellinis from Pazzo.
5. Ok, really last one – Frito Pie from Russell Street BBQ

So, really, if this event is in your area – GO. It’s a great way to sample tons of restaurants all while helping to feed hungry children. There was a silent auction with amazing prizes (including one involving a cooking class and a magnum of wine that we won). Also, with a $20 dollar donation, you got to select a bottle of wine from Cork Bottle Shop’s wine wall – we came home with two new bottles of wine to try (in addition to our awesome magnum)

Now, I’m back to the couch to whine and wait for my boy to bring me tomato soup (from Seasons and Regions, because this post is all about places I like to eat anyway).

But you can’t take the Canby out of the girl

The Facts:

• I will apparently do ANYTHING if there isn’t a line.
• The extra drink tickets that were gifted to me also contributed to this act.
• I don’t think this is what my father had in mind when he gave me the Flip camera for Christmas.
• A man resembling Brett Michaels ran the mechanical bull.
• This was at a work function.
• My  job is totally awesome.
• My thighs are sore today.
• You’re welcome.

My sweet friend Shana’s baby boy passed away yesterday. I’m struggling to understand how God could another baby away, within a week of beautiful Maddie’s passing.

Please keep Shana, her husband, and her two little girls in your thoughts and prayers as they heal. Whoorl has set up a fund to help the Myers family out. If you can, please consider donating to help with the medical and funeral expenses.

Rest peacefully, Sweet Thalon.