Blend,Liquify,Frappe,Whip,Stir,Puree,Chop,Mix.

Ali and I have been playing the waiting game. Or at least that is a way one could describe our recent state. About to begin a formal lease negotiation process, there is no way for us to precisely anticipate how long it will take to secure what could be our space. If all goes according to plan, we hope to sign a lease within two to three weeks. However, first we must submit a letter of intent so that we can lock up the space for 30 days; ample time to take a close look at the building and acquire estimates for the build-out, as well as negotiate a lease that will make our efforts worthwhile. Sounds simple right?
The fact of the matter is that much of what happens over the next few weeks will depend on the owner of the space we want to lease, and how eager he is to have us as tenants. This is the very first time during our search that Ali and I have found a space that we could see ourselves working and thriving in, and it is difficult not to get too attached to the location and the thought that it could be ours. We don’t just like this space, we see it as a unique opportunity, and we also know what we need to make it work for us. Again, whether or not we get the space will come down to the landlord. If for some reason we are unable to get what we need from the lease, we will have to move on and continue our search, knowing that we made the right decision to walk away.
But before anything happens, we first have to submit our LOI, and then, the real waiting game begins. I don’t think that either of us has ever wanted to work so badly in our lives. There is so much to look forward to and both of us are eager to get started with what our friend Mike dubbed “the fun part,” building out the space so that it will work for us. I can’t even begin to imagine how many collective hours Ali and I have spent researching furniture, lighting, flatware, and equipment. When we finally have the green light, we hope that we will be rewarded for all of our hard work by the fact that our knowledge of what we need could help make us operational in 6 to 8 weeks.
Perhaps more than anything, I am excited to get in the kitchen and cook on some of the commercial equipment. I have always loved technology, and when it comes to cooking equipment I never get my fill. I love scrutinizing different gadgets and trying to figure out even more uses for them than their inventor originally intended. When Ali and I worked at the market last year, one of our biggest rewards was being able to purchase some quality commercial gear. Among my favorite was our 16” Waring immersion blender. Though it was once nearly responsible for removing the tips of three of my fingers (I guess that was more my fault), this powerful device pureed its way into a special place in my heart. Utilizing its powerful motor and unique design Ali and I mixed some of the best salad dressings I have ever had. Last week Ali and I adopted the ‘little brother’ to this blending behemoth: a turquoise Waring pro blender. This two-speed pocket Hercules can certainly hold its own when mixing smoothies or making milkshakes, but could never create the same result as its commercial counterpart when it comes to emulsification.
As Ali and I begin to tiptoe into the lease negotiation process I have a feeling that this little blue mixer could really come in handy, regardless of what the future will bring…

Cause for Celebration Hibiscus Flower Margaritas
1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
1 cup sugar
4 cups water
1 cup+ tequila
4 cups ice
Simmer dried hibiscus flowers in water for 10 or 15 minutes. Strain through a cheesecloth, and put the hibiscus water in the fridge to cool. Combine water, tequila, sugar and ice in a blender. Blend until smooth, pour and serve.

Vanilla Smack(ed) In the Face
1 pint Vanilla Ice Cream
8 ounces Vodka
8 ounces Vanilla Rum
8 ounces Kahlua
1 pint Ice
Combine all ingredients in blender. Blend until smooth, pour and serve.