Happy New Year

I am at work for a half day today and can't wait to get home! I was super lazy and drove the car to work and parked in a lot near my office. I will be paying nearly $20 for 4 hours of park time. I hate wasting money, but the idea of parking further away and taking a bus to my car seemed like a waste of time and seemed to defeat the purpose of driving in the first place. (I feel like I deserve it at this point since I am 34 weeks today!) Do you know that I have only had ONE mani/pedi since I have been pregnant and I have YET to get a massage or any other pamper treatment!!! I know it is because of the timing of everything- buying a house is so expensive, and now every dollar seems to count. Plus we will need to pay for childcare soon, and we just bought a VERY expensive camera- wasting money seems so more frivolous now. (like the parking today- that could have been a manicure!)

Speaking of wasting money! Tonight is New Years Eve!
Big Guy and I decided to stay in a cook a french meal together- we went all out since it is the two of us and we'll be having the works!
I think we have six courses planned- I hope they all work out.

1st Course: Mini potato pancakes with creme fraiche and caviar

2nd course: Shrimp with coconut orange vinaigrette on a bed of red oak lettuce (inspired by a dish at Froggy's in Highwood)

3rd Course: Escargot with herbed garlic butter

4th Course: Crispy ostrich with broth and homemade almond butter smear (inspired by a dish at May Street Market in West Loop/West Town)

5th Course: Grilled duck breast with black currant sauce (inspired by a dish at Froggy's in Highwood)

6th Course: Poached pears with caramel sauce and ice cream

This will definitely be a sink or swim situation. Hopefully it will be fun instead of stressful- and it was all Big Guy's idea! I am looking forward to spending time together cooking!
I will take pictures to let you know how everything goes. I hope everyone has a fun and safe evening!