The game of Life

     

      Please excuse my neglect of this blog for the past several weeks.  Or has it been months?  I know it's been TOO long.

      I will not bore you with details, but suffice to say I've been battling some rather serious medical issues which were a result of an incompetent (new) dr. who took me off the thyroid meds. I've been on for 23 years.  Looooong story. I also am still trying to mend from Plantar Fasciitis in my right foot.   Just getting through each day/week was a challenge so to tackle my other interests/hobbies was just more than I could handle. 

     But I've missed y'all!!!!
    
      My health problems escalated to a trip to the ER about a week ago, but I'm thankful I went in as my thyroid levels were 3x higher than the normal zone.  The ER dr. sent me home with a new doseage and a hefty dose of potassium, I've been feeling SO much better!

      Yesterday hubby and I spent the afternoon on a "date" and went antiquing and out to lunch--it was quite nice to just do "normal" things again.  It was a wonderful day and I came home with some new treasures, which is always fun!

      These first pictures I'm going to share are of my "finds".  I've been wanting to decorate this cute little room we have where you come in from the garage.  It's a good size area and just needed *something more*, ya know?  I have 2 gorgeous HUGE French hand painted pictures, one of which hangs on the wall in this area I'm speaking of.  Then I had a pedestal with a silk plant on top.  Here's how my little room between our kitchen and office & laundry room NOW looks:

      My favorite is the distressed chair (only $30!) with French writing on the seat!  The 2 roosters give me that French "country" kinda feel and I plan to put a nice silk flower/greenery arrangement in what they were calling a wastebasket.  I like to think outside the box.  I love the look I was able to create and this room's about done!

      Hubby has already said we'll be going back in a month or two---he just loves this antique mall too!  Next time I'll be concentrating on some things I want for the living room. 

      After 5 hours of sleep, we were up early this AM for our granddaughter Lindsey's T-ball game.  All 5 grandchildren came to root for her so it was great to see them.  I've been laid up at home so much that I've really missed them all!  I got lots of hugs and love (and some ribbing/bantering from the older boys...lol!) which never fails to warms my heart.

Miss Lindsey in her uniform

Lindsey rocked ~ batted without using the T!

Left to Right:  Julie, Julie's friend and KoKo (Korey)

The gang! Left to right:  Nick, Korey, Lindsey, Julie, Ben

Sister love <3

      We'll be seeing the girls again in a few days and we're all going out to dinner.  These sweet, beautiful little people sure brighten my day!

       I hope you are all enjoying the warmer, Spring weather.  I love checking out how my perennials are popping up and what is blooming from day to day.  This year I want to plant lots of flowers so I pray my health will continue to improve so I can get back to doing everything I love!

       ~Blowing blessings out to each and every one of you!

          Shelly

Our first Spring in our new home

Since the lilac tree out front is now blooming as are some of the bushes, I thought I'd share some pics with you all.
Particularly worthy of notice is that ALL of the river rock (which was around the entire house!) has been taken and mulch has been laid in front.
The back yard is now ready for some late Spring/Summer perennial planting!  I must have flowers, and lots of them. 
Check out our back fence....we got the idea to decorate it from our next door neighbors who've created such a cute backdrop to their flower bed.  Soon we hope to have a lattice privacy panel in place on one side of our deck, which will give me more places to hang "treasures" I find. 

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter and that you are all enjoying beautiful Spring weather in your neck of the woods!

Happy Easter!!

Wishing all of my readers and members a wonderful, blessed Easter Holiday!!

Love to all!

Tex-Mex Bacon Cheeseburgers, via Rachel Ray

Saw these in this month's issue and felt the need to share.  I don't know how many calories they have and I. don't. care.  These will be a reward for me when I accomplish my work-out goals this summer!
If you get a chance to try these before I do, make sure to comment here and let the rest of us know how you liked them!

Tex-Mex Bacon Cheeseburgers

Burgers

12 slices good-quality smoky bacon, 4 slices finely chopped and 8 left whole
1 1/4 lbs. 80% lean ground beef
3-4 tsp. grated onion
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
2 Tbsp. pureed chipotle in adobo sauce
2 Tbsp. worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
Vegetable oil, or extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Queso Sauce

3 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbso. flour
1 C milk
1 1/2 C shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained

Rolls and Toppings

4 soft burger rolls, split
Crisp yellow tortilla chips
Chopped onion, tomato, cilantro and pickled jalapeno

1.  Arrange the 8 whole bacon slices on a broiler pan and bake at 375 degrees until crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. 
2.  Meanwhile, preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.  Combine the beef, chopped bacon, grated onion, garlic, chipotle puree and worsestershire; season with salt and pepper.  Form into 4 patties (thinner at the center); drizzle with oil.  Grill the burgers for 5 minutes on each side for medium done.
3.  Make the queso sauce:  in a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.  Whisk in the flour for 1 minute, then whisk in the milk.  Stir in the cheese to melt.  Stir in the tomatoes.
4.  Place the burgers on the bun botms and top with the queso sauce, criss-crossed bacon strips, corn chips, remaining toppings and bun tops.  Serve extra sauce on the side.

Serves 4, obviously. 

Snapshots of Spring from my corner of the world

Today I actually remembered to grab the camera before hubby and I went for our daily walk.  We just love being so close to 3 gorgeous parks and all the wonderful walking trails.  I hope you enjoy these photos of Spring in Indiana!

The weather was absolutely perfect for a walk.  A little breezy, but in the low 70's. Gobs of people out taking advantage of the beautiful day!

We got back just in the knick of time; it's getting ready to blow up a storm. 

There are 2 lakes at this park....today we walked around the larger lake, shown here

Bridge to another area of this huge park

When I see the red covered bridge I know we're almost done!

Pineapple and Shrimp Fried Rice

Bring Asian-influenced flavors to the table with this shrimp dish.

Pineapple and Shrimp Fried Rice

2 C cooked white OR brown rice
8 tsp. Canola oil, divided
4 lg. eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 lb. uncooked, peeled and deveined large shrimp, chopped
1 (8 oz.) can pineapple tidbits, drainet
1/3 C chopped green onion
3 Tbsp. soy sauce
1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar, KA-ME
1/2 tsp. ground ginger (or less, if like me, you're not a ginger "fan")
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper

Prepare rice according to pkg. directions for 4 servings.  Spread cooked rice on a rimmed baking sheet, and chill for 30 minutes.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tsp. oil over medium heat.  Add eggs; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes, or until done.  Remove scrambled eggs from skillet.  Wipe skillet with a paper towel.

Heat skillet over medium-high heat; add remaining 6 tsp. oil.  Add shrimp; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes or until shrimp are pink and firm.  Add eggs, rice, pineapple and green onion to skillet; cook for 2 minutes, or just until heated through, stirring frequently.  Remove from heat; stir in soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, salt and red pepper. 

Makes 4 servings

Garlic Smashed Potatoes

My husband LOVES these potatoes, so thought I'd share with you all.  These delicious potatoes are so creamy you won't believe they are light.  Enjoy!

Garlic Smashed Potatoes

3 garlic cloves
1/4 tsp. olive oil
3/4 lb. red potatoes, cubed
2 Tbsp. fat-free or low fat milk
2 Tbsp. reduced-fat sour cream
1 1/2 tsp. grated Fresh Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. snipped fresh dill
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
Dash cayenne pepper, if desired.  I desire.........

Place garlic on a double thickness of foil.  Drizzle with oil.  Wrap foil around garlic.  Bake at 425 degrees for 15-20 minutes.  cool for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, place potatoes in a saucepan and cover with water.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and cook for 10-15 minutes or until tender.  Drain.  Transfer potatoes to a boil; squeeze softened garlic into bowl.  Add the remaining ingredients and lighly mash or "smash".

Serves 2

Another year older.....and wiser.

     Every day, American women and girls are besieged by images and messages that suggest their beauty is inadequate—inflicting immeasurable harm upon their confidence and sense of wellbeing. In "Beautiful You", author Rosie Molinary—in no uncertain terms—encourages women, whatever their size, shape, and color, to work toward feeling wonderful about themselves despite today’s media-saturated culture. Drawing on self-awareness, creativity, and mind-body connections, "Beautiful You" incorporates practical techniques into a 365-day action plan that empowers women to regain a healthy self-image, shore up self-confidence, reframe and break undermining habits of self-criticism, and champion their own emotional and physical wellbeing. Through accessible, doable daily actions, women and girls are encouraged to manifest a healthy outlook on life—teaching them to live large, and starting them on the path to learning to love themselves and others. Molinary steers clear of the florid affirmations and daily meditations often utilized by books geared toward personal growth, and instead delivers a hip, modern guide of inspirational thought that keeps pace with the times. "Beautiful You" is a practical, candid, and accessible handbook that will strike a chord with every woman who has ever faltered in her self-confidence or lost her personal brilliance—and it will make sure she never lets it happen again.

     I saw this book on Pinterest and thought I'd share as it's definitely going on MY must-read list;  as stated above, so many of us women struggle with self-esteem issues at some point in our lives.

     I have low self-esteem and my husband, bless his heart, really dislikes it whenever he hears me speaking negatively about myself.  One of the things I love most about him is how he builds me up and makes me feel I can do anything I set my mind to.  I have shared with him how I grew up without hearing ANY positive affirmations of my self worth, and how at age 54 that continues to affect me. 

     As time ticks on and those voices in my head are still there decades later, I'm starting to understand how nobody else's words can ever replace those unspoken by the ones who gave you life.  Intellectually I KNOW I am a beautiful soul and that I deserve love but if my own mother (my biological father wasn't in my life) couldn't verbalize OR show me love then that ultimately "speaks" volumes. Despite counseling and reading enough self-improvement books to understand that my poor role models don't reflect MY worth,  it seems that nagging question will forevermore remain:  if I'm so wonderful, why doesn't my own mother love me?

     Most days I don't dwell on my past; there has been far too much hurt to go into here but I am happy now and have chosen to focus on my blessings and the positive aspects of my life. My mothers birthday is days away and I've been reflecting on the past year and the fact that I haven't heard from her in almost 365 days.  She phoned me LAST January, on my birthday, and claimed she was "going to do better this year" at communicating with me.  Throughout all the ups and mostly downs of our relationship, we've never stopped talking for this length of time.  Now, for the first time, I really don't have anything to say.  More importantly, there is NOTHING she could possibly say to me to explain why she's ignored me for an entire year.  I got engaged, married and moved in those 365 days but she didn't acknowledge those life events.

      I've done a lot of soul-searching lately and I'm grateful that I'm here to celebrate my own milestones and achievements because of the woman who's turning 71 next week.  This is a turning point for me to look at what's been such a bitter journey in a new light and I trust that the book "Beautiful You" will present even more opportunities for me to continue on this path. 
    

    

  

Chai Tea Mix....made with love from home

I'm getting ready to send out a little care package to my sons who live and attend college clear across the nation from me.  Thought I'd share what I'm packaging up just in case anyone else is interested.  This would be a wonderful gift for a neighbor or friend or just make some up for yourself!

Chai Tea Mix

2 C sugar
2 C unsweetened instant tea
1 1/2 C powdered French Vanilla nondairy creamer
1 1/4 C powdered nondairy creamer
1 1/4 C packed brown sugar
3/4 C nonfat dry milk powder
2 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 1/4 tsp. ground cardamon
1 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. ground allspice
1/4 tsp. white pepper

*Additional ingredient (for each serving)
1 C hot 2% (or your desire) milk

In a large bowl, combine the first 12 ingredients.  In a blender, cover and process tea mixture in batches until powdery.  Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.
To prepare one serving of chai tea:  Place 1/4 C mix in a mug.  Add hot milk; stir until combined.

Because I love my readers! Taco Bean Soup

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Because I love you ALL, here's yet another recipe.  I made this earlier today, for tomorrow's dinner.  Tonight hubby's taking me out for Valentine's Day.  We'll be at The Outback, one of our favorite places to eat. 

Tomorrow is our day to hit all the thrift shops for reselling on Ebay, so this soup will be nice to come home to. Oh, and this recipe is as easy as it comes!!

Taco Bean Soup

2 tsp. olive oil

1 lb. ground beef

1 C chopped onion

1 1/2 C water

1 (16 oz.) can refried beans

1 C mild to medium-spicy thick and chunky salsa

1/4 tsp. EACH chili powder (I use the extra dark) and cumin

Taco shells for garnish

1/2 C shreded cheddar cheese for garnish

dollop of sour cream, if you wish, for garnish

Cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned.  Drain off any grease.  Add the water, salsa, refried beans, chili powder and cumin.  Bring to a boil; stirring constantly.  Reduce heat and simmer uncovered 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Ladle soup into bowls, serve with crumbled (heated) taco shells, cheese and sour cream if desired.

Makes 4 servings



Zesty Chicken Tortellini Soup

Yes, I'm still on tortellini.  What can I say, I just love 'em.  Here's another great recipe using my favorite pasta.  Don't hesitate to toss in whatever veggies you have on hand--it's a great way to use up leftovers!

Zesty Chicken Tortellini Soup

4 C reduced-sodium chicken broth
4 C reduced-sodium beef broth
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs OR breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs.)
4 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery ribs, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
1 envelope reduced-sodium onion soup mix
1 1/2 tsp. dried parsley flakes
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp. poultry seasoning
1/2 tsp. pepper
2 1/2 C frozen cheese tortellini

In a dutch oven, bring chicken broth and beef broth to a boil; reduce heat.  Add chicken and poach, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 170 degrees.  Remove chicken; cool slightly.

Add carrots, celery, onion, soup mix, parsley and seasonings to broth.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Cool soup.  Meanwhile, remove chicken from bones; coarsely chop chicken; discard bones.  Add cheese tortellini and chicken to soup.  Transfer to freezer containers if desired; freeze for up to 3 months.

To use frozen soup"  Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.  Place in a saucepan and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes or until heated through and tortellini is tender.

Serves 6

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage & Tortellini Stew

.......and as promised, here's the second hearty stew recipe. 


Slow Cooker Sausage & Tortellini Stew

4 sweet Italian  sausage links, casings removed
1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes with basil, garlic and  oregano
1 pkg. (9 oz.) frozen cut green beans
1 large onion, chopped
1 pkg. (9 oz.) refrigerated cheese tortellini (such as Buitoni)
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh oregano

Crumble sausages into a bowl and stir together with tomatoes, green beans, onion and Italian seasoning; place mixture in slow cooker.  Cover slow cooker bowl and cook 3 hrs. on HIGH or 6 hrs. on LOW.

When there is 20 minutes remaining, stir in tortellini, oregano and 1 cup water; continue cooking. 
Makes 6 servings.

Tomato Minestrone Soup w/Garlic Bread Croutons

It's COLD here today, so I thought I'd share a couple of recipes for warm comforting soups.

Tomato Minestrone Soup w/Garlic Bread Croutons

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 lb. pancetta or thick-cut prosciutto, finely chopped (optional)
1 lb. zucchini, cut into strips lengthwise (discarding the seedy centers), then cut into small pieces
2 ribs celery with leafy tops, finely chopped
1 small carrot, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Salt and Pepper
One 32 oz. container (4 C) chicken or vegetable stock
One 15 oz. can cannellini beans, rinsed
One 15 oz. can tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1/4 lb. whole wheat or other short-cut pasta
A handful of basil, torn into pieces
2 Tbsp. butter
4 thick slices Italian bread
About 1/2 C freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese
Finely chopped parsley, for garnish

In a soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium high heat.  Add the panceta or prosciutto, if using, and cook until browned, a couple of minutes.  Add the zucchini, celery, carrot, onion, bay leaf and 2 cloves garlic; season with salt and pepper.  Cook until the vegetables are tender, 7 to 8 minutes. 

Preheat the broiler and position a rack in the middle of the oven.  Stir the chicken stock, beans and tomatoes into the soup and bring to a boil.  Add the pasta and cook until al dente.  Stir in the basil and lower the heat to low.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.  Add in the remaining 1 clove garlic and swirl for a minute or so; remove from the heat. 

Broil the bread on both sides until lightly toasted.  Brush the bread with the garlic butter and sprinkle with the cheese and parsley.  Broil to melt the cheese.  Serve the soup in shallow bowls, each topped with a crouton.

Makes 4 servings

Will you be mine? Valentine, that is.

     Valentine's Day is right around the corner, especially if you have youngsters of elementary school age.  I have no idea if teachers still allow sharing of Valentine's cards and treats but if they do,  perhaps this post will inspire you and your child(ren) to do something a little different this year. 

     Don't even buy those boxed Valentine cards.  Dare to be different AND spend some quality time with your children by getting out the construction paper and embellish store purchased candy with some cute word play!  I found a few of these in the Feb. issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine, and then I hit the lottery on Pinterest.  You can find the candy word plays that I posted and so many more here:  http://mudpiestudio.blogspot.com/2011/12/101-valentine-ideas-for-under-5.html

     Here are just a few I pulled from the above blog to spark your creativity ~  they are all age and gender neutral.  I've listed the candy first, to make it easier for you to prepare in advance. 

York Peppermint Patties......"We're just mint to be"

Sweet & sour straws, pixie sticks (whatever they're called)........"You're sweet"

Fresh Pear (yeah, I know.......maybe a better idea for your spouse than kid)...."We're quite the Pear!"

Starburst............"I'm bursting with Happiness that you're my friend"

Peanuts or other small pkg. nuts........"I'm nuts about you"

Reese's Pieces..........."I love you to pieces"

Pop rocks, Rock candy..............."You rock!" OR "Valentine, you're a rock star"

Tootsie Rolls........"You are sweet and fun, all rolled into one"

Oreos..."It's as plain as black & white, I'd love to be your Valentine"

Extra Gum...."Valentine, you're extra special to me"

Goldfish crackers..."You're a great catch" OR " will you  o fish ally be mine"?

Two of anything...."Valentine, we're two of a kind"

Gum....."I chews you as my Valentine"

Koolaid........."Valentine, you are kool"

Snickers............."You make me snicker"

Here are a couple more great ideas for Valentine greetings to HAND over to mom and/or dad. 

Happy Valentine's Day to all my readers!

 

  

     

Robert Redford Dessert

     I'm sharing this recipe which I'll be making this weekend.  Hubby mentioned it a while back & I'd never heard of it so had to do some research.  I'll be doing it with the chocolate and also vanilla pudding, but as I state below, you can change it up to suit your own taste! ~ Enjoy and as always, do come back & post to let me know if you tried any of my recipes and how you liked them!

Robert Redford Dessert

First layer:

1/2 C melted buter
1 C flour, all purpose
1 C nuts (your favorite; I like pecans)
1 Tbsp. sugar

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.  Mix all the ingredients for the first layer and then press into a 9 x 13" pan.  Bake for 20 minutes.  Let cool.

Second Layer

1 C powdered sugar
8 oz. cream cheese
1 C whipped cream (your favorite recipe OR ready-made)

Mix all the ingredients for the second layer.  Spread evenly on top of the first layer.

Third Layer

1 1/2 C chocolate pudding (your favorite recipe OR instant)
1 1/2 C vanilla pudding (your favorite recipe OR instant)

Layer each pudding evenly on top of the second layer.

Fourth Layer

1 1/2 C whipped cream (again, your favorite recipe OR ready-made)
1 Chocolate bar, frozen (1 1/2 oz. bar, your favorite---I'm using Hershey's)
Optional:
1/2 C chopped nuts (your favorite, pecans over here)

Spread the whipped cream on top of the third layer creating a wavy finish.  Remove the chocolate bar from the freezer and do NOT eat it instead of shaving it on top of the dessert!  ***You shoulda bought two candy bars ~ next time you'll know.  If you are finishing with nuts, sprinkle those on top of the dessert.

I'm here, there, I'm everywhere ~ I'm on Ebay!!

For those who peruse Ebay & may be interested, here's my user name and listings.

A girl's gotta make the bills somehow, right??  So I bit the bullet and set up an Ebay STORE. 
http://myworld.ebay.com/shellyssweetfinds

New finds will be added to my inventory on a regular (weekly) basis.

**Also, just to see if you're really reading, I DO have a couple more giveaways planned for upcoming months so be sure and keep it here, otherwise you'll miss out.

I haven't been online much because I've been trying to recover from a back issue.  I hope to be back soon with some new recipes!

Blessings ~
Shelly

I've been chosen for the Liebster Blog Award!

My fellow blogging friend Tara, from http://littlenotebookblog.blogspot.com chose me for this unique award and I'm so thankful and honored!!

Stop by her blog and check her out, everyone!


Ok…
About the Liebster Blog Award:
Liebster is German and means 'dearest' or 'beloved' but it can also mean 'favorite'. The idea of the Liebster award is to bring attention to blogs with less than 200 followers in the hopes that it will bring many new friends/followers. So, in the spirit of good fun I am passing this award on to five other bloggers.
Please stop by and visit them.

The Rules are:
1. Show your thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them.
2. Reveal your five picks for the award and let them know.
3. Post the award on your blog.
4. Bask in the love from the most supportive people on the blogshare-other bloggers.
5. Finally and the best rule of all..........have fun and spread the love!

I'm passing this award onto the following blogs.  Please drop by and check them out!

http://iblog4.me
http://wannabegreenash.blogspot.com
http://www.nestcandy.com
http://familymakeovermaven.com
http://www.thisbeautyisee.com

Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans

This is hands-down one of my favorite meals, any time of the year.  I make a HUGE pot, so you may want to adjust the portions to suit your own needs.  One reason I make so much of it is because it's awesome leftover, and I'm NOT much of a  "leftovers" kinda gal.

Smoked Sausage, Red Potatoes and Green Beans

3 lbs. fresh green beans, trimmed and ends cut
2 lbs. (or more, I swear, sometimes I use more like 3 lbs!) red potatoes, quartered
1 large onion, sliced
1 lb. smoked sausage (again, add more if you wish) cut into 1 inch chunks
*1 tsp. salt
*1 tsp. ground black pepper
*1 tsp. garlic powder
*1 tsp. onion powder
Water to cover all

**Honestly, I fudge on ALL the spices.  I add quite a bit more salt and pepper; and I just throw in the garlic and onion powder, without measuring.  I know that's not much help, but it's how I roll.

In a large pot, combine all ingredients and simmer for abt. 45 minutes or till potatoes and green beans are tender.
Serves 8

Vermont Cheddar-Herb Bread

1 3/4 C all-purpose flour
1/4 C sugar
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1/8 tsp. ground allspice
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
4 oz. sharp cheddar-cheese, cut into 1/2 - 3/4 inch cubes (I just used shredded cheese, I'm lazy!)
1/2 C thinly sliced green onions
3 Tbsp. coarsely chopped Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
1 Tbsp. coarsely chopped fress dill
1 1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
1 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 C buttermilk
1/4 C butter, melted
nonstick cooking spray

In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, pepper, allspice and nutmeg.  Stir in cheese, green onions, parsley, dill, thyme and rosemary.  **Suddenly, I find myself singing "Scarborough Fair"............
Sorry, brief diversion.    In another bowl combine eggs, buttermilk and butter; stir into flour mixture just until moistened.  Let stand 5 minutes.  Keep singing.  lol.....
Lightly coat a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.  Spoon batter into pan, spreading evenly.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean.  Cool in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes.  Remove bread from pan; serve warm*

*Note:  Bread can be made up to 2 days ahead.  Cool, wrap and refrigerate.  To serve, let bread stand at room temperature about 45 minutes to warm up slightly.  Do not let bread stand at room temperature more than 2 hours.

New England Corn Chowder

Umm, yeah I stole this photo from Pinterest 'cause I'm way busy today and anyway, this is totally how it looks!

You can prepare this a day ahead, too.  Chill, then reheat just before serving.  For a thicker chowder, which is the way I prefer it, increase the butter and flour.

1 C chopped celery (2 stalks)
1/2 C onion, chopped
6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
2 (15 1/4 oz.) cans whole kernal corn, drained
2 (14 3/4 oz.) cans cream-style corn
4 C milk
3 1/2 C chicken stock OR two (14 oz.) cans reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 C whipping cream
3-4 dashes bottled Tabasco
4 C cubed potatoes (about 1 1/4 lb.) * again, I used MORE...I like a thicker chowder
1/4 C butter, melted
1/4 C all-purpose flour
1/4 C snipped fresh parsley
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

In a 6-8 qt. dutch oven cook celery, onion and bacon over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Add whole-kernal corn, cream-style corn, milk, stock, cream and Tabasco sauce.  Bring to boiling; reduce heat.  Simmer, covered for 30 minutes. 
Add potatoes; return to boiling.  Reduce heat; simmer, covered about 15 minutes more or until potatoes are tender.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together butter and flour until smooth.  Add flour mixture to corn mixture.  Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly; cook and stir 1 minute more.  Stir in parsley and season to taste with salt and black pepper. 
Garnish with crumbled bacon, more sliced green onions and MORE cheese! 
Makes 12 servings

Unsavory, indeed

  

 While reading the Sunday paper yesterday, I came across a letter to the editor that really irked me.  I feel I must write about it and I hope you'll indulge me.  I won't take long, promise.

     The writer stated that he'd like the city to move panhandlers "temporarily" from an exit ramp that will receive heavy traffic on Superbowl Sunday.  To quote him, "every night as I exit the ramp, I have to endure the soulful looks from the panhandlers who seem to have staked out their territory.  I find it disconcerting that this is the first impression that people coming in for the Super Bowl will get.  Can we find a way to rid our ramps of these people for the week of the game?"

      Seriously, I don't know where to begin.  This is sad to me on a number of levels.  The writer signed his name and apparently lives in one of the more affluent areas.  Instead of wasting paper, perhaps he should count his blessings that he's never hit rock bottom like some of the individuals he described.  Remember the saying, "never judge a person until you've walked a mile in their shoes?"  Or how about, "there but for the grace of God, go I". 

     These are hard times we're living in.  I would think most people don't have to look very far to see the effects of the rough economy on someone they know; but maybe the fellow who wrote that travels in different circles. I'm not sure he realizes how many people are just one step away from a chain of events that could send them in a downward spiral.  I find his suggestion of temporarily removing unsavory people from view abominable.  In a word, I find it a selfish idea when what is desperately needed is some kind of solution.

      For every fraud who may be standing on a street corner asking for handouts, there are most certainly people who are truly homeless and have lost everything.  Yes, there are agencies that help, but they aren't in a position to feed, cloth or house anyone on a daily basis.  None of us can discern with one view whether or not another person is definitely in "need", but I have to ask, where is the compassion?

      In my mind, resorting to standing on a corner braving the elements, begging for help would have to be the last straw in someone's life, wouldn't you agree?  The bigger issue is one that cannot be waved away so that society as a whole doesn't have to feel uncomfortable.  If we're talking about the demise of some once prosperous cities, we can turn in any direction and see factories and businesses that have shut down and how the enormous loss of jobs has affected the economy overall.  If you're going to turn a blind eye, you've got to start at the source. 

      I don't have the answers.  I wish I did.  The Superbowl has been around for years and people will continue to attend wherever it's held and sadly probably won't think twice about someone standing on a corner.  What I find distasteful is the attitude that people can and should be invisible because of their appearance or what they represent.   This world needs more love, compassion, kindness, empathy.  You can't solve a thing otherwise. 

     

   

Baker's Dozen Yeast Rolls

  The delicious honey-garlic topping turns these easy dinner rolls into something extra special.  Good with soups and chili.

Baker's Dozen Yeast Rolls

2 to 2 1/2 C all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp. sugar
1 pkg. (1/4 oz.) quick rise yeast
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 C warm water (120 to 130 degrees)
2 Tbsp. plus 4 tsp. butter, melted, divided
3/4 C shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tsp. honey
1/8 tsp garlic salt

In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 C flour, sugar, yeast and salt.  Add water and 2 Tbsp. butter; beat on medium speed for 3 minutes or until smooth.  Stir in cheese and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 4-6 minutes.  Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
Divide into 13 pieces.  Shape each into a ball.  Place in a greased 9 inch round baking pan.  Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.
Bake at 375 degrees for 11-14 minutes or until lightly browned.  Combine the honey, garlic salt and remaining butter; brush over rolls.  Remove to a wire rack to cool. 
Yield:  13 rolls.

Downloadable Declutter & Organizer Calendar

     I just happened across this 2012 calendar, which breaks down organizing tips into small, daily tasks which don't take much time.  Just think how great you'll feel at the end of the year if you even do HALF this stuff!!  I've always been a super organized person who believes everything has a place and that most of the battle is just returning things to their proper "home" so you don't waste time searching for stuff.  http://www.mysimplerlife.com/2012.htm

     Having said that, I still have things I can improve on, so this week I'm working on organizing my recipes.  I have scads of clipped recipes from magazines and the internet, etc.  that I'm typing into a Word program on my computer, then printing them, slapping a page protector on them and filing into a binder.  I've had this binder system for years, but the pages had gotten splattered with food and I'd begun cramming new clippings into said binder to the point where I would open it and have to shuffle through this huge mess to find one recipe.

     The madness had to cease!!  I've dedicated an hour or so each morning to working on it, and I should be done in just a few more days.  Call me odd, but I get such a thrill when things look nice and orderly. 

Like layers of a withered rose

     They wheeled her wheelchair into the waiting room and found a spot near the corner to park it. The television was on, and several people, including myself were waiting to be called back to see the doctor.  I hadn't thought to grab a book from home, and none of the magazines in the place were appealing, so I found myself observing.

     The woman's hair hadn't been combed in the back.  I had no idea her approximate age, but it was obvious she wasn't a spring chicken.  Then she began talking.  She focused on the two women closest to her, much to their dismay.  One of them chose to play with her phone, either texting or pretending to...while the other woman responded in short, one word answers.   Just when it would get quiet again, the elderly woman would ask them another question.  Had they heard the "candy bar poem"? As they shook their heads no, she began to recite a cute little poem that I could only hear bits and pieces of.
 
     People began looking up, kind of rolling their eyes as if to silently thank goodness they weren't the ones being bombarded with small talk.  Even the receptionist looked up a few times and laughed out loud as we exchanged glances.  I'm ashamed to admit that I was grateful I'd sat clear across the room and therefore could sit in peace.

    We all had a long wait though, and the longer I sat there the more I evesdropped on the old woman's conversations.  I guess they weren't really conversations because they were completely one-sided and I began to be embarrassed.  Not for her.  For US.   For everyone else in that room.  This was obviously someone who was ALONE.  She was waiting solo---nobody had accompanied her to the dr's. office that day.  She was probably lonely, for crying out loud.  Why didn't ANY of us ask her if she wanted to be turned around so she could view the television, or offer to bring her a cup of water or coffee, a magazine from the rack or just put that phone down and actually engage in a conversation with her??

     Why?  It certainly wouldn't have changed our wait time.  I heard her say she was 90-something.  That could be ME someday, I thought.  If I'm fortunate to live that long, I hope I'm not sitting somewhere and people are making fun of me for merely wanting to strike up conversation.  We should value our aging population instead of ignoring them.  I'm of the belief that each generation has wisdom to impart----we just have to be open to it. 

     That elderly woman represented someone's mother/sister/aunt/grandmother.  One doesn't reach maturity without learning something along the way; if we take the time to peel back some of those layers, what lies beneath may intrigue us more than we thought possible.

     They may just want to tell you a funny poem, though.  Either way, there isn't much to lose by listening.  Here's the "candy bar" poem that this dear woman shared.  I apologize in advance if it offends anyone: