Firecracker Fried Shrimp

As a child, we can't wait to get older so we can drive, date, get married and have children.  Then, we wake up one day, and realize that we have achieved most of what we set out to do.  Some of us complain about getting older, and reminisce about being younger.  Some of us long for those carefree days when all we had to worry about was what to wear to school tomorrow.

Well, I guess I'm a little different, because getting older has been treating me well so far.  Of course, I could certainly do without some things, like bills.  Overall though, the most enjoyable thing about getting older is finding newness in established relationships.  My little sister is visiting.  The same "little girl" that laughed til she couldn't breathe when I walked in the room.  The same little girl who was terrified of frogs and police sirens.

That "little girl" is 17 now and we still laugh together like we did when she was 2.  The conversations have changed a bit, but the relationship is deeper and more profound.  She's no doubt related to me, she carries the same sarcasm and quick-wit that I consider some of my most enjoyable qualities.  Yet, when I'm around her, I feel a little more than sisterly-love...she has quickly become one of my best friends.  This, is absolutely one of the most beautiful things about growing older.  Tonight, we shared one of my favorite meals, and she vows to make it when she gets back home.  She has a love for cooking and baking that is quickly growing, and I couldn't be happier.  She's always asking for someone to write a blog about her.  Little sister-friend, this is all for YOU.

Very Strawberry Cupcakes

I like to do things the hard way.  I know at least one person who is currently agreeing whole-heartedly with this statement, but I'm sure he's smart enough to keep it a silent opinion.  So, when these little beauties were in the brainstorm stage, I was thinking of every way to make it harder than it really had to be.  I knew one thing for sure...I had a pint of strawberries that I really needed use.  Then I remembered that Duncan Hines makes a Strawberry Supreme cake mix, and the rest is cupcake history.  So, if you're interested in death by strawberries, I encourage you to indulge.  I'm eating one now and thinking about the 4,557 sit-ups I'm going to have to do to burn it off.