This American Girl's Ride

073 Show Notes

2012-01-19T10:02:00.001-08:00

Melissa is back from hiatus in episode 73! She talks about 2011, what's going on now, and hopes for the future.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com.

Thanks to Mr. Chris for hosting this podcast on his server.

072 Show Notes

2011-11-08T19:15:00.001-08:00

In this long overdue episode of TAG Ride Melissa explains her absence and discusses and upcoming hiatus.

Please send feedback to tagridepodcast@gmail.com and visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com

071 Show Notes

2011-08-30T22:12:00.001-07:00

Melissa reads some listener emails from Ann and Heidi in this episode, and focuses on TV, movies, and food.
For contact info please visit thisamericangirlsride.com. There you can find the email for this podcast (and we love emails!), Melissa's Twitter, and Facebook. Please leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes.
Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

070 Show Notes

2011-08-08T16:27:00.001-07:00

Today Melissa reads an email from listener Ann, who has great job search advice.

To contact this podcast with feedback email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our websit at thisamericangirlsride.com, follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and please leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

069 Show Notes

2011-07-10T15:49:00.001-07:00

Melissa is joined by guest host Scott, who has his own podcast, The Satyrsphere, for this supersized 69th episode spectacular.

To leave feedback for this podcast email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com and follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a rating and review for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

068 Show Notes

2011-07-08T08:00:00.001-07:00

In this episode of TAG Ride, Melissa goes back to a segmented podcast and talks about TV, movie, music, darts, bowling, current events, and much more!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com and follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Don't forget to leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

067 Show Notes

2011-07-01T08:45:00.001-07:00

Melissa recounts her trip to NYC in May of 2011 during this episode.

To leave feedback for this podcast, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find more details about the show. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and please leave a review in iTunes for this podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

066 Show Notes

2011-06-19T14:01:00.001-07:00

Melissa recounts her May 2011 trip to Las Vegas, NV in this episode of TAG Ride. Thank to Jenny, Nicole, and Heidi for their emails.

If you would like to contact this podcast, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also leave audio for Melissa at audioboo.fm and tag the recording girlofmayhem. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a rating and review for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

065 Show Notes

2011-06-12T10:05:00.001-07:00

In this episode recorded MONTHS ago, Melissa is joined by the fabulous Virginia of the Inside The Podcasting Studio and Tudor Talk podcasts. They discuss their views regarding the topic of mental health issues.

To contact this podcast with feedback, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also Boo Melissa by using audioboo.fm and tagging the boo Girlofmayhem. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com, and follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Thanks to all who've left iTunes reviews, and if you haven't yet, please do so!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

064 Show Notes

2011-06-06T15:27:00.001-07:00

Melissa returns after a long unexpected hiatus. She talks about the month of May 2011 and all the personal tragedy that occurred.

To contact this podcast with feedback, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. And follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a review for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

063 Show Notes

2011-04-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

Melissa brings back all the regular segments in this episode of TAG Ride, plus reads and email from listener Christina.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit the website at thisamericangirlsride.com. And please leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

062 Show Notes

2011-04-12T18:04:00.001-07:00

Reach Melissa at tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Special thanks to Mr. Chris from slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

061 Show Notes

2011-04-03T15:21:00.000-07:00

Melissa (M1) is joined by Melissa (M2) and they talk about everything from weddings to strip clubs to movies to TV.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. We would love for you to leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can follow M1 on Twitter @girlofmayhem and M2 @wine_with_lunch.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

060 Show Notes

2011-03-28T13:11:00.001-07:00

Melissa and Melissa have a slightly shorter chat in their usual monthly podcast.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can followthe Melissa's on Twitter, M1 is @girlofmayhem and M2 is @wine_with_lunch. Please leave this podcast a review and rating in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

059 Show Notes

2011-03-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

In this special episode of TAG Ride, Melissa features some of the music that has meant something to her over the years, and recently.

We want your feedback! Please email this podcast at tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please, please, please leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes if you have not yet!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

058 Show Notes

2011-03-10T13:24:00.001-08:00

Melissa is joined by Scott aka Satyr69 in this very special podcast. They chat about his acting work, the Oscars, RuPaul's Drag Race, and much more!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem and Scott @satyr69. Please leave a review/rating for this podcast in iTunes, your feedback is welcome and appreciated!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

057 Show Notes

2011-03-08T15:07:00.001-08:00

The two Melissa's are at it again! This time they are bringing you a podcast that deals with labels our culture puts on people... It's a bonus cast!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can follow M1 on Twitter @girlofmayhem and M2 @wine_with_lunch.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

056 Show Notes

2011-03-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

*Warning: This podcast involves a lot of crying and sniffling. Don't listen if you're not interested in someone pouring their heart out. Regular shows to follow shortly after this one!

Thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

055 Show Notes

2011-02-21T08:34:00.000-08:00

In this episode of TAG Ride, the two Melissa's just talk about their weeks and life in general.

To contact this podcast with feedback, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow the Melissa's on Twitter, your host is @girlofmayhem, and our monthly co-host is @wine_with_lunch. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. And please leave a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

054 Show Notes

2011-01-29T12:21:00.001-08:00

Melissa is joined by Virginia, the host of the Tudor Talk and Inside The Podcasting Studio podcasts. They talk about some of the normal TAG Ride segments, and discuss A LOT of TV!

To leave feedback for this podcast email tagridepodcast@gmail.com or leave an audio message at audioboo.fm and tag it Thisamericangirlsride. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com and PLEASE leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

053 Show Notes

2011-01-24T17:57:00.001-08:00

In episode 53 the two Melissa's begin their adventure as co-hosts. M2 will be appearing every third Sunday of every month with M1. In this episode, they go over many regular segments, included Eating In, Eating Out, On My TiVo, and much more!

To leave feedback for this podcast you can email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow M1 on Twitter @girlofmayhem and M2 @wine_with_lunch. Please leave the podcast a review and rating in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Bill's Pizza Pics

2011-01-24T17:39:00.001-08:00

Pizza from Serious Pie

Bill's Pizza Pics

2011-01-24T17:38:00.001-08:00

Pizza From Mozza

Gnocchi

2011-01-24T17:35:00.001-08:00

Here is the gnocchi I made. The gnocchi came in a shelf-stable package from Chelsea Market in NYC, the Puttanesca sauce came from Publix (I'll get the brand name next time I go) and I actually made the lemon-cream sauce myself!

052 Show Notes

2011-01-15T06:07:00.001-08:00

In episode 52, Melissa gives listeners a bonus cast in which she discusses the podcasts she's listening to. If you have a suggestion for a podcast TAG Ride listeners would like, let Melissa know!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com, and leave a review and rating in iTunes for this podcast. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Melissa's Homemade Tostada

2011-01-10T20:01:00.002-08:00

051 Show Notes

2011-01-10T20:01:00.001-08:00

Melissa is back in a brand new year! In this episode of TAG Ride, Melissa features normal segments, such as Eating In, Eating Out, On My TiVo, In My Headphones, I Adore, Listener Question, and much more!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Join Melissa on Twitter by following @girlofmayhem. And we would really appreciate your review and rating of this podcast in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

050 Show Notes

2011-01-01T19:04:00.001-08:00

Melissa is joined by THREE very special guest co-hosts for this super-sized edition of TAG Ride. Virginia from Inside The Podcasting Studio, and Tudor Talk, Christina from Greetings From Nowhere, and Melissa from Melissa And The Evils help Melissa celebrate our 50th episode.

To contact this podcast with this feedback, contact tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can find Melissa's Facebook badge on the website, and you can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a review/rating in iTunes for this podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server, and thanks to Virginia, Christina, and M2 for co-hosting.

049 Show Notes

2010-12-30T13:14:00.001-08:00

In this short episode, Melissa briefly discusses her current ailment and a handful of regular segments.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. We would adore an iTunes review and rating from our listeners !

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server

048 Show Notes

2010-12-26T08:55:00.001-08:00

In episode 48 of TAG Ride, Melissa talks about memories and favorites of Christmas. This is a short show because Melissa is still suffering from laryngitis, but a show she hopes the listeners will enjoy nontheless.

We want YOUR Xmas memories! Please write us at tagridepodcast@gmail.com with your Xmas memories and favorites. Also, visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Please leave the podcast a review and rating in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Podcast Update

2010-12-23T15:54:00.000-08:00

My apologies for all who were awaiting a podcast this week only to find out there wasn't one there. Unfortunately, I have been ill for almost 2 weeks now, and have been without a voice for 9 days. I am hoping that my voice will return ASAP, and would love to have a new show for you this coming Sunday, 12/26/10. Thanks for your patience, and a Happy Holidays to everyone! :-)

Xmas Cookie Anyone?

2010-12-17T16:50:00.000-08:00

047 Show Notes

2010-12-14T15:37:00.000-08:00

Melissa recounts her journey to the fabulous New York City in episode 48 of TAG Ride.

To leave feedback for this podcast, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. We encourage you to visit the website for this podcast at thisamericangirlsride.com. We would love an iTunes review and rating for this show if you have some time to leave one!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

M2s Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

2010-11-29T15:37:00.000-08:00

Ingredients

* 4 pounds golden creamer potatoes
* 2 bay leaves
* Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
* 2 cups sour cream
* 1 stick unsalted butter
* 3 tablespoons horseradish, or 1 cup coarsely grated fresh horseradish
* 2 tablespoons cooking water
* Chopped fresh chives, for garnish

Directions

Put the potatoes into a large pot, add the bay leaves, 2 tablespoons salt, and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaves and drain the water from the potatoes, reserving 2 tablespoons cooking water. Smash potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the sour cream, butter, horseradish and season well with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh chives.

***Recipe courtesy Food Network - Tyler Florence

Mustard Pork Pic

2010-11-29T15:36:00.000-08:00

045 Show Notes

2010-11-28T15:36:00.001-08:00

It's a double dose of Melissa's in this episode. Host Melissa is joined by special guest co-host of Melissa And The Evils for a normally segmented episode where they talk about food, entertainment, and much more!

To leave feedback for this podcast email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit thisamericangirlsride.com for more info on the show, and follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a review for this podcast in iTunes, we need your support!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting the podcast on his server.

Mustard Marinated Pork

2010-11-28T09:36:00.000-08:00

2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1/2 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
20 oz thin cut pork loin chops or lean thin cut boneless pork chops (about 10 pork chops total)
non-stick cooking spray

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients through the lemon juice. Then whisking, slowly pour in the oil to emulsify the marinade.
2. Brush each pork chop on all sides with the marinade. Set them on a plate and place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour.
4. Heat and non-stick grill pan or a large non-stick skillet (or use the outdoor grill) over high heat. Spray with non-stick cooking spray and add the pork chops. Sear them until they are deeply caramelized on the first side before flipping them to caramelize on the second sides.

*recipe courtesy of the Chow Bella website

044 Show Notes

2010-11-22T16:56:00.001-08:00

Melissa is once again joined by Christina from Greetings From Nowhere and Virginia from Inside The Podcasting Studio to discuss more body image. The three ladies cover a variety of topics concerning the subject.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can visit our website for more info at thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and please leave a review for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Yummy Mexican from Emiliano'z in FL

2010-11-20T07:32:00.000-08:00

043 Show Notes

2010-11-14T06:49:00.001-08:00

Melissa is solo for episode 43, and discusses some of her normal segments including On My Bookshelf, On My TiVo, In My Headphones, Eating In, Eating Out, and much more!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Don't forget to visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find a new video of Melissa! Also, Melissa's Facebook badge is on the website. If you haven't yet, please leave a review and rating for this podcast in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server

Yay Video!!! Melissa, The Host, Golfing

2010-11-11T14:33:00.001-08:00

042 Show Notes

2010-11-09T03:42:00.000-08:00

In episode 42 of TAG Ride, Melissa is joined by M2 (Melissa) from Melissa And The Evils. Tune is as they talk about some of our normal segments, including food, tv, books, music, movies, and more!

To leave feedback for this podcast, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com, and you can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a review and rating in iTunes for this podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

041 Show Notes

2010-11-01T15:29:00.000-07:00

Melissa is semi-on location at the FL State Dart Tourney. Enjoy this quick podcast and stay tuned for episode 42, coming next week!

Email feedback for this podcast to tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and visit our website thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find Melissa's Facebook badge and much more!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Alton Brown's Stove-Top Mac N Cheese

2010-10-27T18:06:00.003-07:00

* 1/2 pound elbow macaroni
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 2 eggs
* 6 ounces evaporated milk
* 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* Fresh black pepper
* 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
* 10 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded

Directions

In a large pot of boiling, salted water cook the pasta to al dente and drain. Return to the pot and melt in the butter. Toss to coat.

Whisk together the eggs, milk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir into the pasta and add the cheese. Over low heat continue to stir for 3 minutes or until creamy.

Alton Brown's Baked Mac N Cheese

2010-10-27T18:06:00.001-07:00

* 1/2 pound elbow macaroni
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 3 tablespoons flour
* 1 tablespoon powdered mustard
* 3 cups milk
* 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
* 1 bay leaf
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1 large egg
* 12 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* Fresh black pepper

Topping:

* 3 tablespoons butter
* 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large pot of boiling, salted water cook the pasta to al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, in a separate pot, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and mustard and keep it moving for about five minutes. Make sure it's free of lumps. Stir in the milk, onion, bay leaf, and paprika. Simmer for ten minutes and remove the bay leaf.

Temper in the egg. Stir in 3/4 of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Fold the macaroni into the mix and pour into a 2-quart casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese.

Melt the butter in a saute pan and toss the bread crumbs to coat. Top the macaroni with the bread crumbs. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and rest for five minutes before serving.

Remember to save leftovers for fried Macaroni and Cheese.

040 Show Notes

2010-10-27T03:38:00.001-07:00

Melissa is joined by pas guest co-hosts Christina and Virgina to discuss issues that people face regarding body image. Their discussion only touches the surface, and more is sure to follow at a later date.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. Please leave a review and rating in iTunes for this podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

039 Show Notes

2010-10-21T11:31:00.001-07:00

In episode 39, Melissa and Angela finish the conversation they started in episode 38.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris for hosting this podcast on his server.

038 Show Notes

2010-10-13T03:33:00.001-07:00

In episode 38 Melissa is joined by guest co-host Angela, from the Smart Remarks Podcast. In this first part, they take some normal segments on some fun tangents.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can follow Melissa on Twitter. Visit the website for this podcast thisamericangirlsride.com to see Melissa's Facebook badge, find links, see pictures and also show notes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

037 Show Notes

2010-10-11T18:18:00.001-07:00

In episode 37, Melissa goes on location! Sort of... While it wasn't asi nformative as Melissa would have liked, she still hopes TAG Ride listeners will find it interesting, and maybe even amusing!

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website where you can find Melissa's Facebook badge. You can also follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please leave a review/rating in iTunes for this podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Angela's Meatball Recipe

2010-10-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

Meat

1 ½ lb meatloaf meat (ground beef and pork)
1 ½ bulbs of garlic (1 ½ tbsp of crushed garlic from a jar)
salt / pepper
finely diced onion (about ¼ of a large white onion)
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
finely chopped Italian parsley (I bought fresh from lettuce section at Rainbow)
½ cup wine (I used white zinfandel)
1 jumbo or 2 small eggs
handful of breadcrumbs (4 slices stale white bread)

Sauce

1 jar prego traditional sauce
1 tbsp cracked fennel (put in ziplock bag and go over with a rolling pin)
1 tsp crushed red chili pepper
salt / pepper

Instructions:

If you’re making meatballs, put them on a baking sheet and bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes. If you’re making meatloaf, good luck because I haven’t tried that yet.

036 Show Notes

2010-10-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I didn't get around to making real show notes this time. But the gist of it is that I had a WONDERFUL co-host, Christina from the Greetings From Nowhere Podcast. We talked about some of our regular topics, and then spoke about a current event that is possible controversial.

035 Show Notes

2010-09-27T20:51:00.001-07:00

Melissa covers most of the regular segments during this podcast, including On My Soapbox, On My TiVo, In My Headphones, Eating In, and many more. She also recounts the regional dart tournament she attended this past weekend.

To leave feedback for this podcast, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Visit our website where you can find Melissa's Facebook badge as well as show notes, pictures, links, and more. Please leave a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

034 Show Notes

2010-09-21T17:34:00.001-07:00

Melissa is joined by another Melissa in this episode! The two Melissa's discuss how a person figures out what they want from life, and the how people get to the place where they are unsure of their life's path. You can find M2 on the podcast Melissa And The Evils.

To leave feedback for this podcast, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Don't forget to visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find show notes, links, pictures, and much more. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. And please leave a rating and review in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

033 Show Notes

2010-09-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

Melissa delves into a bunch of our normal segments and then veers off into contemplating the world of podcasting and who is truly American. Join us on episode 34 when we'll have a new guest co-host in a bonus episode.

Please give feedback by emailing tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you can leave comments and view all our fun content. Please leave a review and rating in iTunes for this podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris from http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

032 Show Notes

2010-09-06T12:57:00.001-07:00

Melissa is 30 today! Because we already had the birthday extravaganza episode, Melissa decides to do a normally segmented episode on her actual birthday where she gives you some insight on our usual topics. We talk food and entertainment, and Melissa gets on her Soapbox and talks about a current event. Melissa also recaps darts and gives you some news on a rediscovered hobby.

To leave feedback for this podcast please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Also, visit the shows website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where there are show notes, pictures, recipes and much more. Please leave a review and rating in iTunes for this podcast, and don't forget to follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

031 Show Notes

2010-09-04T13:38:00.001-07:00

Special guest co-host Virginia had an idea for Melissa, that they shoudl do a bonus cast discussing what they're grateful for. Melissa rallied her listeners and Twitter followers and episode 31, the Gratitude Cast was born.
Melissa and Virginia recount in this episode SOME of the things that they and the listeners are grateful for in their lives.

To leave feedback for this podcast email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Please visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find show notes, links, pictures, contact info and Melissa's Facebook badge. If you subscribe to this podcast through iTunes, please leave a review and rating.

Thanks to Virginia for co-hosting on this episode and a special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

030 Birthday Extravaganza Show Notes

2010-08-30T20:24:00.000-07:00

In this extra long episode, Melissa celebrates her 30th podcast along with her 30th birthday. She is joined by special guests, Christina and Nicole, from the Greetings From Nowhere podcast. The three lovely ladies discuss lessons they've learned during their first 30 years, talk about why birthdays are important, and list some goals for the next 30 years.

To leave feedback for this podcast email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find Melissa's Facebook badge, show notes, contact info, pics, and much more. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and please leave a rating and review in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

A Nation Of Couch Potatoes

2010-08-21T17:32:00.001-07:00

So obesity is an epidemic. America is just plain FAT. I myself am not a small girl. Hell, even if I were to drop the wieght I'd like to lose, I still wouldn't be tiny. That's just the way it is. But are Americans fat because they're lazy? I'm not so sure anymore.
I live a VERY active lifestyle. To the point where people tell me "STOP. You are taking on way too much". They tell me this on a fairly regular basis now. I have a full-time job, run a dart tournament on Sunday nights (EVERY Sunday might I add), have dart league on Thursday nights, research, produce, record, and edit not one, but TWO podcasts (PLUS manage websites and fan pages and a Twitter account for both podcasts), and have signed up to play softball on Friday's (although this is definitely temporary, a few weeks max). Plus the normal household duties. I am responsible for two peoples laundry (this does include myself), cooking every day, or at least 5 days out of 7, plus cleaning. Needless to say, I am exhausted and certainly by no means LAZY.
Now. I don't have kids, and I am not a caretaker for someone who needs assistance. And I know there are people out there who have multiple jobs, or kids, or both. So I get the busy vibe. I don't know that many people that just lay around. This is not to say I don't believe that couch potatoes exist. I certainly do. But I do not think that all Americans can be lumped in to one category, and I don't believe laziness is the main reason Americans have grown siginificantly in size.
It is not hard to excercise. It's not even that time consuming. A 30minute walk a day is definitely excercise and could significantly improve one's health and possibly weight. And many of us make excuses as to why we don't have that 30minutes to engage in physical activities, as if we actually don't have it. Believe me, we do.
It doesn't help the obesity epidemic that food has become a HUGE liability. Both literally and figuratively. And I believe that food, as much as I love it, is the reason we are as fat as we are. There are many people who don't have enough food to eat. There is poverty in almost every city in the U.S. But those of us who can afford to eat, do. In massive quantities. And we eat food that is HORRIBLE for us.
Personally, food is love for me. And I know a LOT of people who live to eat and don't eat to live. It's amazing to make a meal that people love and are appreciative that you made for them. It's just as amazing to have someone cook you something, whether it's a family member, friend, or even just the cook/chef at a restaurant.
The portion size that Americans eat has increased dramatically. We as consumers feel that we have to have a huge meal in order to justify the cost. Not to mention if we really enjoy a meal we want as much of it as we can possibly get. While there are movements to change our view of portion size, as well as movements to cook healthier with more organic and natural ingredients, Americans still love the fat and the calories.
But enough of the ranting. My main purpose of this blog was to air my frustration about people assuming Americans are lazy just because they are overweight. I hate, HATE the terms obese and fat. I prefer overweight. But I know that I personally am in no way overweight because of laziness. Just to be clear :-)

029 Show Notes

2010-08-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

Melissa is ridin' solo in episode 29. Doing a normally sgement, she is happy to read several listener emails from Virginia, Christina, Nicole, J in PA, and Meghan. She also talks about entertainment, food, and gets on her soapbox.

To leave feedback for this episode email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. On this podcasts website http://thisamericangirlsride.com, you can find show notes, pics, recipes, links, as well as Melissa's Facebook badge if you would like to be her friend on Facebook. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. And please leave a rating and review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Egg Casserole Recipe

2010-08-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

Contributed from our friend and listener Virginia:

Egg Casserole

3 eggs
3 Tbsp milk
2 slices white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 green onion with top, thinly sliced (optional - I don't use this)
1/3 cup (1.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
1/3 cup selected ingredient (the recipe calls for ham, but I usually use mushrooms)

Preheat oven to 350. Spray Small Oval Baker (Pampered Chef) with vegetable oil. Combine eggs, milk, bread, green onion (optional), cheese, and final ingredient. Mix well.

Pour egg mixture into baker. Bake 20-25 minutes or until egg mixture is set.

Here is a link to the Small Oval Baker: http://www.pamperedchef.com/our_products/catalog/product.jsp?productId=4056&categoryCode=FH

028 Show Notes

2010-08-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

Melissa is joined by Virginia of the Inside The Podcasting Studio and Tudor Talk podcasts. Melissa decided she needed an audience to tell her creep story to! But Virginia and Melissa also discuss TV, food, music, and much more in episode 28. Send in your list of things you are grateful for, so that we can include you in a future podcast!

Please send this podcast feedback at tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Please visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you will also find Melissa's Facebook badge that you can click to become Melissa's FB friend. Also, you can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. Please, please leave a review/rating in iTunes, especially if you want to qualify for the contest in September.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

027 Show Notes

2010-08-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

Melissa is joined by Ryan, who has been featured on the Smart Remarks podcast, and Virginia, who hosts the Tudor Talk and Inside The Podcasting Studio podcasts for a journey into the topic of politics. Listen in as they discuss the current hot-button issues of immigration, specifically in Arizona, and health care. This is a polite, respectful discussion, where the hosts offer varying viewpoints on politic topics.

Please contact this podcast with feedback at tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Don't forget to visit the website http://thisamericangirlsride.com where you can find show notes, pictures, links and much, much more. You can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and to friend Melissa on Facebook, see the link on the shows website. Please leave a review and rating in iTunes for this podcast as well. And check out Girl Of Mayhem, Melissa's Sons of Anarchy fan podcast.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

026 Show Notes

2010-08-06T18:24:00.001-07:00

Melissa is solo in episode 26 as she runs through some of her usual topics. We have Eating In, Eating Out, On My TiVo, In My Headphones, I Adore, and much more. Melissa also goes over her first week in her new work position. Stay tuned, episode 27 is the Politics Cast.

To contact this podcast, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also visit and leave comments on the website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can be friends with Melissa on Facebook by clicking on the badge on the shows website. You can also follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. And please leave a review/rating in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

025 Show Notes

2010-07-31T07:32:00.001-07:00

Melissa is once again joined by Angela and Virginia in part 2 of the girl talk from Sunday 7/25/10. A little bit lighter this round, with a little bit of everything thrown in.

Contact this podcast with feedback by emailing tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Please visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com. You can also follow Melissa on both Twitter, @girlofmayhem, and Facebook. And please leave a review in iTunes.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Audio Boo Info

2010-07-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

If you would like to subscribe to my Audio Boos, use this link: GirlOfMayhem Audio Boos
You can subscribe using iTunes or another program that you choose to listen to podcasts on. It's completely free, and most of the Boos I make are just short blurbs about what's going on in my life, or what's upcoming for my 2 podcasts. Accounts are free to sign up for, and you can record on the computer OR an iPhone OR an Android. If you sign up, let me know so I can follow you, and don't forget to follow me too. The website is AudioBoo
Boo at you guys soon!!!

Cafe Paisano

2010-07-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

Delicious garlic knots, Veal Marsala which Chris ordered, and Fettucine Carbonara which I ordered. DELISH!

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Goat Cheese

2010-07-28T13:05:00.001-07:00

Ingredients

1 large jar roasted red peppers
5 teaspoons olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
4 cups hot cooked bow tie pasta (8 ounces uncooked)
1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled goat cheese

Preparation

Heat 2 teaspoons oil in small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes. Add roasted red peppers, garlic mixture, remaining 1 tablespoon oil, broth, and next 5 ingredients (through red pepper) to blender with peppers; process until smooth. Combine bell pepper mixture and basil with pasta. Sprinkle with cheese.

024 Show Notes

2010-07-28T13:01:00.001-07:00

Back with a normally segmented podcast, Melissa discusses many of her normal segments, and has a suprise guest for the Lets All Go To The Movies segment. Recipe is for roasted red pepper pasta, and the restaurant reviewed is Cafe Paisano. Stay tuned for episode 25 which will be the second part of the girl talk episode with Angela and Virginia.

Contact this podcast with feedback via tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can follow Melissa on Titter @girlofmayhem. If you would like to add Melissa as a friend on Facebook, go to http://thisamericangirlsride.com and click on Melissa's FB badge. Please leave a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

023 Show Notes

2010-07-26T07:05:00.001-07:00

In episode 23, Melissa is joined by special co-hosts Angela, from the Jane Austen Podcast and the Smart Remarks podcast; and Virginia from the Jane Austen Podcast and the Tudor Talk podcast. Episode 23 is part 1 of a two part episode. Part 2 will be episode 25 of This American Girl's Ride.

To contact this podcast with feedback, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can also follow Melissa on both Twitter, @girlofmayhem, and Facebook, Melissa Renee Minyard. Please leave a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

High Tide Harry's (Old Building)

2010-07-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken while we ate at High Tide Harry's in its old building. It is now in a new one, and next time I go I will have more (and better!) pictures

Thai Garden

2010-07-24T10:53:00.001-07:00

I had the pepper steak (left) and Chris had the noodle dish with chicken. Each meal came with a salad and an appetizer that had 3 fried delights.

Tijuana Flats

2010-07-24T10:51:00.001-07:00

A yummy chimichanga and a yummy enchilada with some rice on the side

Red Lobster

2010-07-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

My favorite dish here is the shrimp scampi, and don't forget those Cheddar Bay Biscuits!

Lasagna

2010-07-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

Melissa's Lasagna

2lbs 13oz Spaghetti sauce
9 lasagna noodles, cooked
1lb ground beef
1 medium white onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1tbs dried oregano
1tbs black pepper
pinch of kosher salt
16oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 & 1/2lbs shredded mozzarella cheese

Brown ground beef with onions and garlic in large pan. Add oregano, salt and pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes then add all but 3 cups of the spaghetti sauce. Turn off heat. Mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the parmesan. Spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Place 3 of the lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the noodles. Spoon half of the meat/sauce mixture over the ricotta cheese, spreading evenly. Sprinkle 1/2lb (or 1/3) of the mozzarella over the meat sauce. Place 3 more lasagna noodles on top. Repeat ricotta, then sauce, then mozzarella. Place last 3 noodles on top. Top with an even layer of the remaining 2 cups of plain sauce. Sprinkle remaining parmesan on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Add remaining mozzarella and continue baking until top is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Enjoy!

***If you are vegetarian, you can substitute the meat for a variety of veggies, such as broccoli, zuchini, yellow squash, spinach, carrots, and mushrooms

Quiche

2010-07-21T08:58:00.001-07:00

RECIPE:

8 strips lean bacon, cooked and crumbled
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
1/4 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
store-bought or homemade 9inch pie dough round

Fit dough into a 9-inch pie plate or quiche pan. Trim edges, leaving a little overhang, about 1/4-inch all around the edge. Prick dough with a fork. Line with foil and fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake quiche crust for 10 minutes at 375°.

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, thyme, and pepper. Pour into the baked crust. Crumble bacon over the top with the shredded Cheddar cheese. Bake at 375° for about 30 minutes, or until quiche filling is set and top is lightly browned.

Quiche serves 8.

022 Show Notes

2010-07-20T08:25:00.001-07:00

Girl talk has been moved to episode 23 due to power outtages in the Minnesotas! In this episode, Melissa does a regularly segmented episode while waiting for Sunday to finally record Girl Talk. We feature an email from listener Christina who has a great podcast of her own. Send in your promos! Melissa wants to hear your voice! Food, current events, and entertainment are among the many topics discussed in this episode.

Please contact this podcast with feedback at tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also leave comments if you visit our website at http://thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, or on Facebook. And please leave a review for this podcast in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of http://slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

021 Show Notes

2010-07-13T08:57:00.001-07:00

Melissa celebrates being able to be of podcast drinking age in this episode. She goes all over the place, exploring the strangeness of relationships, the upcoming birthday, and a crazy party. Much of our normal segments are touched on, and there is listener feed back from Christina who co-hosts the Greetings From Nowhere Podcast. Thanks to Christina and Nicole from GFN for their promo featured in the intro music. Also, thanks to those who left iTunes reviews!

To leave feedback for this podcast, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com, and don't forget to visit our website thisamericangirlsride.com. Look for Melissa on Facebook and @girlofmayhem on Twitter. Please leave a review in iTunes if you haven't yet!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

020 Show Notes

2010-07-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

Melissa is joined by Mr. Chris in our special 20th episode. They talk about the viewer feedback, the outings they've been on in the last few months, and much more! Regular segments are featured as well.
Visit the website for the podcast at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can email feedback to tagridepodcast@gmail.com, and please leave a rating/review in iTunes. Follow Melissa on Twitter and be her friend on Facebook.
Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for cohosting this episode, as well as always hosting this podcast on his server.

Christina's Candied Asparagus

2010-06-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

***Pic is one I (Melissa) took after I made Christina's recipe... It was DELISH! Mr. Chris agreed!

8-10 asparagus stalks (fresh)
2 tbs butter or margarine
large handful brown sugar
2 cups chicken broth

Melt butter and brown sugar together. Add asparagus and saute 1-2 minutes, making sure to roll asparagus in mixture until they are fully coated. Add 2 cups of chicken broth and simmer stalks for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Remove asparagus from pan, and place on a platter, leaving the liquid in pan. Continue to simmer broth mixture until it reduces down to about a cup of liquid. Liquid will be a bit syrupy. Poor reduced liquid over asparagus and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of Christina from the Greetings From Nowhere podcast!

019 Show Notes

2010-06-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Melissa tries for a second time to record episode 19. Lots of our normal segments, that include picks from listener Christina from the Greetings From Nowhere Podcast. A listener feedback segment that features mail from Virginia of the Tudor Talk podcast, and new listener Jackie.

To contact Melissa with feedback, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also leave comments on our website, as well as check out all the show notes and pictures at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and friend her on Facebook at facebook.com/falloutqueen. Please leave a review in iTunes, Melissa appreciates it!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

018 Show Notes

2010-06-24T13:37:00.001-07:00

Episode 18 is a continuation of Melissa's conversation with Angela on Sunday June 20, 2010. After discussing internet dating, the girls decided to record a second episode where they talked about Facebook, as well as other topics that were on their minds.

To leave feedback, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also leave comments on the website, which is thisamericangirlsride.com. Please leave a review on iTunes if you haven't yet, and if you would like, you can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem.

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Angela's Picture of Chicken Parmesan

2010-06-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

How much do we adore a listener making one of Melissa's recipes? A whole lot! Our good friend and listener (and occasional co-host) Angela made Melissa's chicken parmesan recipe and it looks delish!!!

017 Show Notes

2010-06-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

In episode 17 Melissa is joined by guest co-host Angela. Angela and Melissa discuss different viewpoints on online dating, and we find out how Angela's version of Melissa's chicken parmesan recipe came out!

To contact the show with feedback, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also post comments on the website, thisamericangirlsride.com. Follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. And please leave a review in iTunes if you haven't yet!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

016 Show Notes

2010-06-18T12:40:00.001-07:00

In episode 16, Melissa reviews some normal segments, including a recipe for mussels marinara in the Eating In segment. Melissa shares some listener emails, which include great suggestions for new podcasts to try, music to listen to, and books to read. Stay tuned for episode 17, where Melissa will be talking to Angela about internet dating!

To contact the show with feedback, please email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit our website for show notes and much more at thisamericangirlsride.com. And if you haven't yet, please leave a rating/review for this podcast in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

015 Show Notes

2010-06-11T08:34:00.001-07:00

In episode 15, Melissa tells you what she listens to for podcasts. These podcasts include Crimes Against Food, Gadgettes, Girl of Mayhem (Melissa's fan podcast), The Daily Purge, Greetings From Nowhere, Jane Austen, How Much Do We Love, Live It Up, Pod Is My Copilot, The Qcast Connection, Q's House, Smart Remarks, Terminally Single, Today In Social Media, Two Whole Cakes Fatcast, Watcher's of Anarchy, and We're Mean Because You're Stupid, plus a audio version of a national nightly news broadcast.

To let Melissa know what you listen to, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. You can also leave comments on the website, thisamericangirlsride.com. And please leave a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

014 Show Notes

2010-06-10T09:05:00.001-07:00

In episode 14 we are on our normal segmented podcast. We have an email from listener Meghan, as well as an exciting weight loss update. Our Eating In segment features an adult beverage recipe, and we remember to actually give the contemplation topic this time!

To contact Melissa, email tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Visit the website at thisamericangirlsride.com. And we still don't have any iTunes reviews or ratings, so please leave one!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this website on his server.

013 Show Notes

2010-05-25T12:39:00.001-07:00

In this special bonus cast Melissa talks about her career aspirations, as well as her education path and her job history thus far. Stay tuned later this week for a regular episode.

Contact Melissa at tagridepodcast@gmail.com, follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem, and visit the website thisamericangirlsride.com.

Please leave a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Apologies For The Delays!

2010-05-24T22:29:00.000-07:00

To all my listeners,
I apologize that I have not put more time into this site, and the podcast! I plan to record this week, it will be episode 13, our special Career Cast. And I have some great ideas for episode 14 in the works. During the summer I will be working to add more pictures for you guys, plus content such as recipes. Thank you for all the support this far!

010 Show Notes

2010-05-03T22:51:00.000-07:00

In episode ten, the "Tin" anniversary Melissa recounts her whirlwind tour of Las Vegas. Look for upcoming episodes, 11 the "Beach" cast and 12, which will be in the normal format.

Contact Melissa at tagridepodcast@gmail.com, and visit the website thisamericangirlsride.com. You can also follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. And please leave this podcast a review in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

009 Show Notes

2010-04-07T12:07:00.001-07:00

In episode 9 Melissa rants about her recent traffic tickets. She also features her usual segments, and introduces two new ones, Contemplation Topic and I Adore.

Leave feedback or questions for Melissa at tagridepodcast@gmail.com or leave comments on the website, thisamericangirlsride.com.

Thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server

008 Show Notes

2010-04-07T09:12:00.001-07:00

In this episode of This American Girl's Ride, Melissa introduces 2 new segments, Current Events and In My Belly. She also does her usual featured segments, and talks about how the past has shaped her present and future.

Contact Melissa at tagridepodcast@gmail.com, and visit the website thisamericangirlsride.com

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server

The Best Meatloaf Ever

2010-04-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

Tomato Relish:

Extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
2 red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and finely diced
2 tomatoes, halved, seeded, and finely diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 (12-ounce) bottle ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Meatloaf:

3 slices white bread, crusts removed, torn into chunks by hand
1/4 cup whole milk
2 pounds ground beef
1 cup bread crumbs
2 eggs
Leaves from 2 fresh thyme sprigs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 to 4 bacon slices

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat a skillet with a 2-count of oil and place over medium heat. Saute the onion, garlic, and bay leaves for a few minutes to create a base flavor. Throw in the red peppers and cook them for a couple of minutes to soften. Now add the tomatoes; adding them at this point lets them hold their shape and prevents them from disintegrating. Stir in the parsley, ketchup, and Worcestershire; season with salt and pepper. Simmer the relish for 5 minutes to pull all the flavors together. Remove it from the heat; you should have about 4 cups of relish.

Place the torn white bread in a bowl and add the milk to just barely cover, swish the bread around in the milk and let it sit while you get the rest of the ingredients for the meat loaf together.

This is where you get your hands dirty! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and breadcrumbs with 1 1/2 cups of the tomato relish, the eggs, and thyme; season with salt and pepper. Squeeze the excess milk from the bread and add the soaked bread to the meat mixture.

Lightly oil a cookie sheet. Transfer the meat mixture to the center of the cookie sheet and form into a log about 9 inches long and about 4 inches wide. Coat the top of the meatloaf with another 1/2 cup of the tomato relish. Lay the bacon across the top lengthwise.

Bake the meatloaf for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until the bacon is crisp and the meatloaf is firm. Rotate the meat loaf while it's baking every now and then to insure that the bacon browns evenly. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it cool a bit before slicing. Serve with the remaining tomato relish on the side. Unbelievably moist!

Hmmmmm

2010-04-01T09:46:00.001-07:00

So I've been slacking pretty bad about updating this site. I promise to start spending more time getting everything up on this site for all my listeners. I have some recipes and restaurant reviews (along with pics) that I will be posting in the next few days. It's all stuff we've gone over on previous episodes that I promised to get up here. Thank you to everyone who listens, and visits the site. It means a lot to me that people care enough to listen to my life stuff!

Episode 7 Show Notes

2010-04-01T09:45:00.002-07:00

In episode 7, Melissa is joined by guest co-host Angela, from the Smart Remarks and SAMCRO podcasts. They discuss items in Melissa's regular segments: Eating In, Eating Out, In My Headphones, On My TiVo and much more. They also weigh in on tattoos and weight loss. So much fun!

Contact Melissa with feedback at tagridepodcast@gmail.com, and visit the show's website at thisamericangirlsride.com. You can follow Melissa on Twitter @girlofmayhem. And please leave a review for the podcast in iTunes!

Special thanks to Mr. Chris of Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server.

Episode 6 Show Notes

2010-04-01T09:45:00.001-07:00

Melissa feels bad about the lack of consistency in her personal podcasting, and wants to give listeners a bonus episode. She goes back to topics she missed from the previous episode, and does a couple of the regular segments.

To leave feedback visit thisamericangirlsride.com or email Melissa at tagridepodcast@gmail.com.

And stay tuned for episode, where Melissa is joined by guest co-host, Angela from Smart Remarks.

Thanks to Mr. Chris from Slackertown.com for hosting this podcast on his server, and for providing tech support.

Episode 5 Show Notes

2010-04-01T09:44:00.002-07:00

In Ep5 of This American Girl's Ride, Melissa dies her normal segments such as In My Headphones, On My TiVo, Eating In, Eating Out, etc. Mr. Chris from Slackertown.com joins Melissa briefly to talk about the Ftheman Fest.

Vistit thisamericangirlsride.com for contact info and show notes.

Episode 4 Show Notes

2010-04-01T09:44:00.001-07:00

Episode 4 of TAG ride. Melissa features many regular segments, including In My Headphones, On My Soapbox, and other updates on weight loss, darts, etc. To contact Melissa visit thisamericangirlsride.com.

Thanks to Mr. Chris of slackertown.com for hosting the podcast on his server

Pop's Fried Rice

2010-02-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

2 cups white rice (preferrably sticky), cooked
1 bag of frozen stir-fry veggies ( i prefer a snow pea blend)
1 cup of shrimp, chicken, or ham; cooked and diced
soy sauce to taste
2 tbs butter oil
2 tbs sesame oil
1 - 2 tsp chili oil
1 tbs garlic powder

In a large frying pan, or wok, saute bag of frozen stir-fry veggies in 1 tbs of butter and 1 tbs of sesame oil. Once heated through, add diced meat. Add 1 tsp chili oil and garlic powder. Add about a tbs of soy sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and put in a large bowl. Add remaining butter, sesame oil, and chili oil. Add rice to pan and fry, stirring every 2 mins or so. Cook for 10 mins. Add soy sauce to taste (I use about 3 tbs). Remove from heat and add to bowl with veggies and meat. Mix together and serve.

Manga!

2010-02-23T10:50:00.001-08:00

As promised on the 3rd episode, here is more info about Maggiano's!
I had the Beef Medallions, which included mashed potatoes and onion straws. The sauce on the beef is a portabello balsamic sauce, super yummy! Mr. Chris had the Beef Spiedini, which was a special for that day, and not a regular item on the menu. We also had the shrimp and crab fondue for an appetizer. And for dessert we did the individual small desserts. I ordered the creme brulee and Mr. Chris had the cheesecake, both were delish!

Episode 3 Show Notes

2010-02-20T08:23:00.001-08:00

On episode 3, Melissa's journey includes returning guest Mr. Chris. They discuss Valentine's Day, lots of food, darts, and things that entertain them... Mostly in the form of music and TV. Melissa gets back up on her Soapbox.

Contact the podcast at the listener line 704-327-8776. You can also contact Melissa via email, tagridepodcast@gmail.com. Don't forget to visit the website thisamericangirlsride.com (or tagride.blogspot.com).

We would love a review in iTunes, so if you get a chance, please leave one!

Thanks to Mr. Chris for being a guest and hosting this podcast on his server!