A Date Day in Smyrna/Murfreesboro and 4 Point Scallops

Stone had the day off today, so we took a "date day". True, there was some errand running. But, we greatly enjoyed being together. We started out in Smyrna at the best donut shop in Tennessee. M and E's Donut Palace has a fantastic, small-town feel - low prices - excellent products - and the owners are the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. I wish they had a website I could link to, because you are going to want to visit after you see these pictures. 

Eclair and Chocolate frosted with nuts

Chocolate frosted and maple glazed with  nuts

Then we ran a couple of errands...pharmacy...Dollar General...blah, blah, blah...before going to our favorite coffee shop, JoZoara,  to pick up some frappes - coconut for me, java chip for him. Both unbelievably good, but I am partial to mine. It tastes like an actual coconut. You just can't beat that. Of course, I have never had anything at JoZoara that I didn't love.

From there to Old Fort Park for a Deep and Meaningful Discussion (we want this marriage to last, so we schedule these at least every two weeks). From there to the movie theater, which was not showing movies at the times listed on the website. So, to the bike shop instead to pick up new helmets...blah, blah, blah. Then, lunch at Ahart's! Yes! I will reiterate that Ahart's is the best pizza shop in the world. The. Best. Ever.

BOT (Basil, bacon, onion, tomato)

Genova (Fresh basil, eggplant, mushrooms, tomato, and goat cheese) - apologies for the lack of focus

Chocolate on chocolate cheese cake (okay, this is actually from another visit but I didn't get a chance to post it and it must be seen)

Key lime cheesecake (again, from before, but still....)

What, you want more? How about the plate they bring out to show you your options?

Ahhh...I am happy just remembering. From there, to a long doctor's appointment. Not so bad since the doctor's office has really good coffee.

Finally, a walk at around the Gateway Trail-head. There were lots of protective mama ducks today, but they were so fun to watch.

Date over, time to come home for dinner. I am calling these "Kroger Scallops" because I got the recipe off the back of a bag of Kroger brand scallops. It is super good. You never know where you are going to find a great new idea for a dish. 



Kroger Scallops
12 oz scallops
juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp white wine
1 tomato, chopped
salt, pepper and parsley to taste
spray butter

1. In a medium bowl, combine scallops, lemon juice, wine, and tomato. Stir gently to combine. Place in the fridge to marinate for 2-4 hours.
2. Line an oven safe skillet with aluminum foil. Place scallop mixture on foil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley to taste. Spray with 10 sprays of butter.
3. Bake at 350F for apx 9 minutes, until cooked through.
4. Yields 2, 4 point servings

 

What a nice day it was. Since this post is all about my husband, it seems appropriate to end it with a song that brings him to mind. I hope your day was lovely and that your tomorrow is full of good food and love.