Tomorrow!

Trader Joe's opens in Kansas City!!!  TOMORROW!  I'm so excited.  I will meet a couple friends (also die-hard TJ's fans) there and track down my already bulging list.  Here are some of the staples I'm looking forward to having:

Chocolate Chips
Dijon Mustard
Jarred Garlic (pureed)
Jarred Ginger (that isn't all stringy)
Sourdough Bread (Stan's favorite)
Shaving Cream (like Alba's, only less expensive)
Pink Sauce (no, not spaghetti, this is a creamy roasted red pepper spread)
Tortilla chips with Lime
Pepitas and other nuts
and did I mention Chocolate Chips!? mmm...

And I know there is a long list of other things I have forgotten.  Salad dressings and candies and vitamins.

I can hardly wait!

Taco Seasoning

Want to know why Lawry's Taco Seasoning is so much better than those other brands?

Cocoa Powder

Yup.  It's official.  Chocolate makes everything better.

Roasted Garlic

This takes all the bite out of garlic, making it oh-so-yummy and almost sweet.

Cut the top off a bulb of garlic, exposing the top of each clove.  Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Wrap in foil, leaving some air space (I put the bulb in the middle and twist up the top almost like a chocolate kiss).  Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350F.

Use in my favorite mashed potatoes or spread on top of steak like horseradish.