Fried Pickles and Basil Ice Cream

One of the big questions every pregnant woman seems to get is, "What cravings have you had?" I have gotten that one a lot and I often answer, "not too many." I have definitely had more of a sweet tooth. I have been enjoying chocolate ice cream which was never a big draw for me pre-pregnancy (I always liked fruity kinds). But, then yesterday I had a nice going away dinner with my lab. When I was asked where we should go, I immediately suggested a restaurant in town called, Crave (rather appropriate) because they have the BEST FRIED PICKLES! Hmm. They are cumin and curry spiced and served with chili sauce and raita. These things rock my world! We had to get two servings just so others at the table could try them as I had to have a lot! Here is a photo of me taking the last one on the stick:

Not only did I really enjoy the fried pickles, but after the meal, we were offered dessert and my first inclination was to decline until the waitress mentioned their ice cream flavor of the day was BASIL. Well, in that case, I will have a scoop! YUMMY! It is really a shame we are leaving Akron as I swear I could subsist on fried pickles and basil ice cream for the rest of my pregnancy. I think this will be my big craving that I can tell Butterball about.

We had a lovely time at dinner and it is really starting to hit that I am leaving. I am very excited to go, but it is a mix of emotions to think back on the last five years of my life here. My adviser was reminiscing on my arrival and then shipping me off to our first field season in New Mexico. I have certainly had some good times and met some great people.

In particular, Chiara has been through it all with me: every field season in New Mexico, every crazy trip to Australia, every up and down in the PhD program (and it really is a roller coaster). She has very much been a sister to me and it is crazy to think about where our lives are going to take us next.


Well, I am obviously getting emotional and mushy. So, I will end this post with my current belly picture:

Just kidding....my 28 week picture and update coming soon :)