I took a sushi-making class tonight, and I had a blast! I would have never guessed how much fun rolling sushi would be, but it was! I have taken lots of continuing ed classes offered by local universities. We are very fortunate to have two universities and one community college within an easy driving distance. They all offer leisure continuing ed classes. I have learned how to make stained glass windows, fused glass jewelry, grow and cook with herbs, become a better photographer and so many other wonderful skills by taking advantage of these one or two night classes.

I was surprised by the class demographics tonight. Mostly young working professionals. I would guess about half the class was single. But sushi is in vogue, and that is probably why the class attracted a younger audience.

Because I am allergic to fish, I brought my own veggies to roll. The possibilities are endless. The instructor had cream cheese for us to add to the sushi rolls and it was delicious. I also loved the toasted sesame seeds we used to garnish the inside-out rolls.

I can see how addictive sushi could become. The salty tamari and the sweet rice vinegar make a delectable combination. And I will have to say…sushi is just so perfectly presentable. All neat, uniform and wrapped up in its own little package.

We grilled pork chops last week. Yes, in the midst of Hurricane Gustav crashing ashore. We lost electricity, so grilling seemed to be the perfect solution. I’ll have to say that I did not enjoy the event like I usually do. the trees were bending and swaying in the tropical storm-force winds and the rain was pelting my plants. But, we were hungry. So we ventured out. Well, my husband did anyway. Jack and I stayed inside and played with flashcards while watching Daddy through the window.

I love grilled pork chops. There’s something about the char that makes them so tasty. We brushed these with pepper jelly before grilling. My husband also basted them with the pepper jelly while he was enduring the weather conditions.

Speaking of pepper jelly…isn’t it so southern? What recipes do you make with pepper jelly?