food frenzy and flowers

A few days before Easter we hit the newest establishment of Famous Dave's Bar-b-que out in Bolingbrook (across from the IKEA off of I-355). There are plenty in the area of this spicy little joint, but we never took the chance to taste the fare, so we figured it was time.Now, if YOU have never tried it...there are a few main rules: You must choose your favoite kind of heat (err...BBQ sauce). Let's start with the hottest and work our way down: (Take note that each one says a bit about the person holding it.)

Brandan models "Devil's Spit".
(No, I can't explain his green tongue.)

Chato's favorite was "Rich & Sassy"...hmph, I don't know about that one. I have yet to see a bank account that can live up to that!

Aly's choice of "Sweet and Zesty" was good definer.

While, once again, I got the left overs: "Texas Pit"

The food was a hearty serving: BBQ, sides, and a homemade bisquit.

But that was a couple weeks ago.

Yesterday, we hit up a back of the roads dive, hidden on Route 66. I first took note of this joint after seeing "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives" on the Food Channel. Good old-fashioned 1950s grub.

Almost southern hospitality, minus the grandma's kitchen 40 minute wait and the undercooked green beans (per my mom's critique), the chicken was tender, juicy and seasoned just right for my palate.

Brandan showcased the catfish basket...with his addition of ketchup drowned fries.

Aly sipped on the Route 66 labeled soda pop; cream soda to be exact.

A Sunday well spent with family.


Finally, a sweet Spring note:

I can confirm that the warmer weather has arrived in our backyard. My Great-grandmother's "Star of Bethlehem" flowers have bloomed in full force. I don't believe I've EVER had such a bumper crop of them with between 30-40 blossoms in each pot.

I love April showers...