tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48301600225085473272024-03-13T12:05:13.605-05:00Take a Whisk<i>Taking a little time to play with words, to play with food, and just to play!</i>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.comBlogger524125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-2865252235353650412010-09-28T15:41:00.005-05:002010-09-28T16:35:11.262-05:00Munchies for Dinner<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJcZg5ZgtI/AAAAAAAACJ8/-1NDPkMSCVw/s1600/figs+1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522077686506816210" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJcZg5ZgtI/AAAAAAAACJ8/-1NDPkMSCVw/s400/figs+1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJcZPnieBI/AAAAAAAACJ0/2_tWgZtQ0Zk/s1600/8+figs+2.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">We brought home some amazing cheese from <a href="http://www.cheesefarm.ca/">Thunder Oak Cheese Farm</a> in Thunder Bay, Ontario. We got to peek inside their kitchen and it was fascinating. What an amazing place. Do stop by if you're in the neighborhood. The location of this farm is unbelievably <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">beautiful</span>. Surrounded by mountains and gorgeous fields, I was tempted to become a Canadian farmer! </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;">We bought their <s>rejects</s> ends and pieces. I'm just way to frugal to pay full price! This was a great way to sample many different flavors. We really loved the Extra Old Gouda, the Nettle, and the Cumin and Clove (weird, but delicious!). </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Arriving home to the terrible news that my best nursing school friend, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span>, had died, I didn't feel much like cooking. In fact, I didn't feel much like eating. These cheese and crackers along with the recipe, below, made for a quick and simple meal. It was one of the first things I was able to eat.</span></div><br /><div></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Now, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span>, I know, would have made a fantastic face at this recipe. "What the hell, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Beavis</span>? Figs!!???" I'd give anything just to be able to share it with her.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJcYkTlalI/AAAAAAAACJs/9nHSWZ_ziBw/s1600/figs+3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522077670242085458" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJcYkTlalI/AAAAAAAACJs/9nHSWZ_ziBw/s400/figs+3.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><strong>Fresh Figs with Toasted Walnuts and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bleu</span> Cheese</strong></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#660000;"><em><span style="font-family:Arial;">Fresh figs are only in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">sason</span> a short time. I adore them and look forward to their arrival every year. We were served something like this at the New Scenic Cafe in Duluth, Minnesota. It didn't take me long to figure out just how simple and delicious this recipe really is.</span></em> </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">Fresh figs</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bleu*</span> cheese, locally sourced, please. I used <a href="http://faribaultdairy.com/index.htm"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Amablu</span></a></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Walnuts, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">coarsely</span> chopped</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Honey or real maple syrup</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">a baguette, sliced thin. toast if you really want to go over the top, but not necessary.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Wash figs, cut in half, set aside. Heat a nonstick pan over medium high heat. Toast walnuts until they're fragrant and delicious smelling (you'll know when, be courageous and just cook by instinct--you can do it). Remove walnuts and set aside. Put pan back on the heat, add figs and cook until they are heated through and the juices start to release. This takes a couple of minutes. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, and heat through. Place on a serving dish. Sprinkle with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">bleu</span> cheese and walnuts and serve on thinly sliced baguette. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Messy. Yummy. You're welcome. </span></div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">*I use the French spelling. Cause it's way more fun that way. And you can pronounce it BLAH and kids love that.</span> <div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div></div></div><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJefaBge_I/AAAAAAAACKE/SimyaBgYZTc/s1600/8+figs+2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522079986764250098" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TKJefaBge_I/AAAAAAAACKE/SimyaBgYZTc/s400/8+figs+2.jpg" /></a>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-79303780960051714232010-08-22T09:17:00.002-05:002010-08-22T09:44:21.982-05:00So Terribly Sad<span style="font-family:arial;">I'm trying really hard to get back into life, but I'm just unbelievably sad. My dear, dear friend <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span> passed away suddenly last Monday. We had just returned from a camping getaway to Canada when we heard the news. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span> was 43 years old. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I honestly have been speechless only twice in my life. This is one of those times.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I want to write about all she meant to me. I want to write about the anger I have that a cardiac critical care nurse can die of a heart attack. I want to write about the ineptitude of doctors and my frustration with White Coat Superiority Complex. I want to write about why women still die of heart disease and how their symptoms are disregarded or diagnosed as hysteria despite how far we've come in other areas of medicine. I want to write about the clinical images I can't get out of my head of my friend, coding on a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">gurney</span> before emergency angioplasty and lying in a morgue. I want to write about her husband, her teenage daughter, and all her family members and friends whose lives are empty now.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">But, I can't. I can't minimize this life with mere words.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I can hear <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span> in my head saying, "snap out of it <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Beavis</span>", my college nickname from her that somehow remained far longer than her matching <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Butthead</span>. I suppose not many people remember that show.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I can hear her laughter. I can still collapse in laughter because of just one word from her. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Puddin</span>' Long story. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">There is a certain order of things and this just doesn't fit it. I will miss her more each day.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><em>Military families make fast friends. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span> told this new Army wife that, "Army wives don't have time for BS." So, we made quick and very deep friendships not because we had to, but because we didn't have time for all the frivolous stuff. The Army moved <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Angi</span> and Rick on, and we remained behind. I then found out how military families sacrifice way more than the obvious. These fast and deep friendships find you scattered all over the country as people are deployed, discharged, or move on. When others never leave their safe and secure hometowns or stay close in proximity to their college friends, our military families don't. If you can get anything out of this, other than to pay close attention to your heart health, I hope that you can have a deeper understanding of the sacrifices that military families make. I would never have guessed it, if I hadn't lived it. It's not just deployment or the danger of the job, it affects every aspect of your life, for the rest of your life. </em></span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-16951831073207564832010-08-11T09:34:00.001-05:002010-08-11T09:42:11.284-05:00Notable Quotable<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TGK2sT_Eg8I/AAAAAAAAB9o/jgJgOsagqJM/s1600/7+19+10+020.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504162566995477442" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TGK2sT_Eg8I/AAAAAAAAB9o/jgJgOsagqJM/s400/7+19+10+020.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">We can't do everything. ~Nora Ephron</span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-31679975797668361642010-08-01T09:40:00.000-05:002010-08-01T09:40:00.686-05:00Flash in the Pan<p><span style="font-family:Arial;">I remember when I owned my business being floored by the PR and marketing world. While I knew it was pretty bad, I had no idea how bad it truly was. I was shocked by Paid Media vs Earned Media. We never paid for media attention. How silly of me to think that the news was actually news and not just an endless stream of paid advertisers! Many business spend their marketing dollars on "news" programs to make it appear that their highly sought after. And not only do most people believe it, they ask for second helpings. </span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">I'm not a news watcher. The headlines make me crazy. Even public radio and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">TV</span> can get under my skin. Donor is just another word for commercial and the bigger the donation, the more they get in attention. </span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">We've come to a point in our society where young people are wrapped up in branding and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">marketing</span> and turned into products. We steal their childhood before they even realize it's lost. Screaming teens are big dollar signs. Figure out how to create a hormone surge and they'll hand over their money. It's been going on for a long time, think The Beatles or Michael Jackson, but I think it's getting worse. Twilight, Lady Gaga, Justin <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bieber.</span></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">Big flash. And it all comes at lightning speed. </span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">I anticipate one day that Justin <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bieber</span> will be in rehab for the fourth time or marrying his third wife, looking to find what's missing in his life. Oops. It's your childhood. Gone forever, but here's another Bentley. His head will look even more like Donald Trumps than it does now. The screaming girls will be gone, but the hangers on will still be there continuing to take just one more piece.</span></p><p><strong><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">Flash in the Pan Corn</span></strong></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"><em>You can use any of your favorite spices or leave it out. </em></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Quickly add a bag of frozen corn (or fresh kernels cut off the cob), 2 TB real butter, a pinch of dried thyme, and stir until corn is crisp tender. It doesn't take very long. Season with salt and pepper to taste. </span></p>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-9789180830666238022010-07-31T09:17:00.000-05:002010-07-31T09:17:00.297-05:00<span style="font-family:arial;">At a restaurant, my mom will peruse the menu like it's her last meal. The wait staff will often appear three times before she's had enough time. My son is baffled by McDonald's drive through window. "Wait, WAIT, I'm not ready." </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I'm not like that, although I do feel a bit pressured at drive through windows and often revert to whatever I normally order just because I didn't see that new salad that they've got displayed in a gorgeous picture by the window where you pay.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">We're not frequent diners at places where you get your food through windows. McD's is a great, relatively low cal place to get an ice cream cone. It's cheaper than DQ and I think tastes better. But, I'm a little put off at the taped welcome voice that pushes the latest whatever burger or implores me to try an iced mocha today. I always say no thank you to the recording and then feel really stupid when the completely different voiced person then takes my order and seems to not understand why I'm no thanking them.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I think my mom reads from menus so deliberately and completely because she's from a generation that just moved slower. It's ok really, not a slam, I think it's a good thing. I love all things slow and really hate it when someone I'm with is compelled to look at their chirping electronic device rather than be with me. Really, what is it about those leashes that have made us all rude? What will 100 years bring? Absolutely no human contact of any kind?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">So, anyway, back to slowing down. I can't eat grilled food all the time, so here's one of my go to recipes for summer. It simmers in your crock pot all day and is great for those days when standing over a 600 degree grill just seems wrong. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><strong>Pulled Pork with Beer and Garlic</strong></span><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></strong><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Take a big old pork roast, loin is good, but way too expensive to cook until it falls apart. Put it in your crock pot. Dump in a good bottle of beer and more garlic than you think you can stand. Salt and pepper to taste and let it cook all day.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Shred, put on buns and top with bbq sauce and cole slaw. Freeze leftovers to do the same thing in the future when it's too hot or your too busy too cook.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Makes a great tortilla stuffer too. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-20609012144789502972010-07-30T06:00:00.000-05:002010-07-30T06:00:07.853-05:00Just One More Grill Marinade<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TFBF1ZEZbVI/AAAAAAAAB7g/gFEaQP_Yv4E/s1600/food+shots+001.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498971928584088914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TFBF1ZEZbVI/AAAAAAAAB7g/gFEaQP_Yv4E/s400/food+shots+001.jpg" /></a><br /><div><strong><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">A Smidgen of This Marinade</span></strong></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">I'm always surprised by how very little liquid you actually need to marinate with. This marinade goes together quickly and was a hit with my family and one of Sam's friends when used on chicken. We especially liked the leftovers the next day cut up and tossed with a big veggie salad. I think it would be great on steak and pork too.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></em></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/4 cup soy sauce</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">3 TB honey</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 TB vinegar, white or cider</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 1/2 tsp minced garlic</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 1/2 tsp grated ginger</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/2 medium onion chopped (or equivalent dried or onion powder)</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">pepper to taste</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Place all in a zip bag. Add desired meat and let marinate for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator. Longer is better. Remove from marinade and grill.</span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-47515268492431715322010-07-29T06:00:00.000-05:002010-07-29T06:00:06.142-05:00Suzie Homemaker Household Engineer and SuperWife<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TE8sTDnH7VI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/YT58PiEGNtc/s1600/food+shots+021.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498662375941205330" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TE8sTDnH7VI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/YT58PiEGNtc/s400/food+shots+021.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">I hate to tell people that I'm a housewife. You get that look of condescension and perhaps a little pity. Some, a very rare few, will say, "hardest job on Earth." And they're right and I want to kiss them which makes for a very awkward moment in Minnesota Land of Very Defined Personal Space. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I've developed many answers over the years. Queen of the Mean Vacuum gets the most puzzled looks. (Where have all the funny people gone?) <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">SuperMom</span> is the shortened version that most people seem to appreciate and understand. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">There are some days that I really feel valued and like I'm making a contribution. Yes, I do this (insert mundane task here) and because I do this (insert mundane task here), D doesn't have to worry about it. He can make the bacon in peace. But, it's mostly when I'm baking that I feel like I'm making a warm and happy home. Not warm in the literal sense of what in the heck are you doing turning on the oven when the air conditioning is on, but you know what I mean.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Anyway, then comes out Suzie Homemaker Household Engineer and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">SuperWife</span>. I brandish my spatula and whip up some kind of sweet hug for my boys.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">This was one of those days. As you can see by the picture, it was well received. I've separated the recipe by crust and filling. This is my go to single crust recipe. It takes 5 minutes and is flaky and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">fantabulous</span>. And if you serve it to me, I'll know you've visited my blog! I can't keep this one to myself, it's just too good and too easy to not share.</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;"><strong><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Betsi's</span> Super Easy One Crust Pie Crust</strong></span></span></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">I'm sure you could double it and then roll out or piece together a top crust.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></em></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1 1/2 cups flour</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">2 tsp sugar</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1 tsp salt</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1/2 cup vegetable oil</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">2 TB skim milk</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">Preheat oven to 400. Mix all with a fork, press in a pie pan, flute the edges, and poke the bottom with the same fork. Bake 12-15 minutes or until edges begin to brown. Then cool and fill to your heart's delight.</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><strong><span style="color:#660000;">Sort of the Same Recipe for Blueberry Pie that one of Darren's Relatives Made, but Better Because I Lost the Recipe and Was Able to come up with a Delicious Version Myself Which May Even Be Exactly the Same as the Original</span></strong></span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">This is really easy, but don't tell them that!</span></em> </div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">2 pints of blueberries, place 1 in the pie shell, 1 in a sauce pan over medium heat</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">Add to the pan:</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1 TB flour</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1 TB butter</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1 TB lemon juice</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">1/2 cup sugar</span></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="color:#660000;">Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until berries just begin to pop. Pour filling over berries in the pie shell. Chill and serve. I love it just as is, but if you want to go completely over the top, serve with vanilla bean ice cream or real whipping cream. </span></span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-29489137486652120882010-07-28T06:00:00.001-05:002010-07-28T09:50:37.960-05:00Probably the Best Lowfat Blueberry Muffins I've Ever Baked*<span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TE8HmQjffnI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/wENW5WWUZZY/s1600/food+shots+026.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498622023902920306" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TE8HmQjffnI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/wENW5WWUZZY/s400/food+shots+026.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">*Bragging as a general rule is not accepted in Minnesota culture, but I'm putting this one out there. We loved them. Enjoy at your own risk. They're so good that portion control is a challenge!<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">We went blueberry picking with friends last Friday morning, followed by a picnic at <a href="http://www.co.washington.mn.us/info_for_residents/parks_division/parks_and_trails/big_marine_park_reserve/">Big Marine Park Reserve.</a> Fun day! The blueberries hung like grapes, so picking was very easy. The three boys were especially good at it. The shortest one could get up under the bushes like a champ!<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">We love blueberries at our house. So, finding ways to use them has not been hard. We ate them fresh all day Friday. We had blueberry muffins and blueberry pie (recipe tomorrow). The blueberry muffins were a hit. This batch was so big there were plenty to freeze to take along on our camping trip.<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><strong><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">Amazing Low Fat Blueberry Muffins</span></strong></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"><em>Why blogger won't let me use HTML today, I don't know. But, here you go, no spaces no matter what I do. I'm sure you can deal with it.</em><br /></div></span><div><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Makes 24 muffins<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Batter:<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">4 eggs </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 cups sugar</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 cup applesauce</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 1/2 tsp vanilla-- I think you could go up to almost a tablespoon</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">4 cups flour</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 tsp salt</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 tsp baking soda</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 cups light or fat free sour cream</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 to 4 cups of blueberries<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Add wet ingredients (except blueberries) and stir until just well combined. Fold in blueberries.<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Topping:<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/2 cup sugar</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/3 cup flour</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/4 cup real butter</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 1/2 tsp cinnamon<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Mix topping ingredients until crumbly.<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Line muffin cups with paper liners. Fill muffin cups with batter. I use an ice cream scoop disher to make it easy and to keep the muffins in a uniform size for baking. Sprinkle with topping. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-56422932574709961702010-07-19T18:00:00.004-05:002010-07-27T11:16:10.722-05:00Mark Your Calendars<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TE8FrQy7U2I/AAAAAAAAB7I/dcvItJ5NyMQ/s1600/food+shots+006.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498619910843749218" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TE8FrQy7U2I/AAAAAAAAB7I/dcvItJ5NyMQ/s400/food+shots+006.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">August 8 is officially been named Sneak Some Zucchini on your Neighbor's Front Porch Night, but I'm getting a jump on things. Be forewarned. If you're within a bike ride of my home, you might want to leave your porch lights on and and a kid with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">KoolAid</span></span> in his <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">SuperSoaker</span></span> hiding in the bushes. Cause once the sun sets, I'm on my way. </span></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">We've been <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">dive bombed</span> already this summer by a neighbor and my plants are loaded. So, I went to All Recipes to see just what to do with all this <s>shit</s> bounty. </span></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">This recipe uses 8 cups, can I hear a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Hallelujah</span>? You can even use the big ones that your kids like to throw against the fence repeatedly until they explode. </span></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">And dang, if it doesn't taste like apple cobbler. Seriously, it fooled even the pickiest of eaters and if I had been smarter and removed the seeds, it would have fooled everyone.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Head on over <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Zucchini-Cobbler-2/Detail.aspx">HERE for the recipe</a>. I want to make sure that Don gets full credit. I followed the recipe exactly which is really hard for a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">non measuring</span> cook like me to do. I wouldn't change a thing </span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-64832182567203418222010-07-15T06:00:00.001-05:002010-07-15T06:00:07.377-05:00Learning to Let Go<span style="font-family:arial;">I don't remember who it was, some actress, maybe Lindsay <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lohan</span>, and I'd hate to mention anything that I admire about her, but I really think it was her. And if it was her, then I've found a redeeming quality in her that I'll cling to as she <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">bumpily</span> navigates her way through life. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Anyway, in the background of a busy day, I was stopped smack dab in the middle of a dirty bathroom because I heard the words, "Just breathe." You see, it was one of those days where my thoughts were muddled and jumbled and my To Do Lists had developed their own To Do Lists. There were Post-it Notes in my brain and all over my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">counter tops</span> and stuck to mirrors. I was frustrated and overwhelmed and I just knew, it wasn't all going to get done. No way, no how.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And those words, they came through loud and clear, despite the fact that I was quite far from the TV and I abhor daytime television...........</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">So, anyway, back to the actress. She had the word breathe <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">tattooed</span> in white so it really was only apparent to her on the underside of her wrist. And immediately, I wanted to find the nearest <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">tattoo</span> parlor, which in suburbia would be a very long drive. Long enough that I would totally reconsider because there's nothing permanent that I would ever want applied to my skin, aside from sunscreen because I just hate having to put that on again and again and again.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Breathe, remember?</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And I realized, I need this reminder from time to time. Dinner can be hot dogs and all will be well. I don't need to work my way through one of Julia Child's cookbooks. That's been done and it doesn't need to be done again. Dust is a wonderful household accessory. He can wear the same socks two days in a row. It won't kill him. Even Martha Stewart has weeds in her garden. And the dude in the Home Depot ad probably has just as many unfinished house projects as we do. The universe will not come to a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">screeching</span> halt if the items on my lists don't get crossed off. They're lists and by their very definition, they never end. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Breathe. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">So, here's a recipe that doesn't require much thought, planning, or preparation. Just toss it together. Grill or bake. And then sit down and breathe.</span><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Chili Maple Marinade</span></strong><br /><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Good on chicken, pork chops, pork ribs, or pork tenderloin.</span></em><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">3 TB maple syrup</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 TB chili powder</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">a little water</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">salt to taste</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Dump together. Marinate if you have time. Grill or bake until done.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Serve with a big salad, straight from the bag, and steamed veggies (straight from the bag!)</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-38406250301042099182010-07-14T12:57:00.005-05:002010-07-14T13:25:10.116-05:00One More Honey at the Table<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TD4A95tbVtI/AAAAAAAAB64/HPhO3xKc9dU/s1600/7+11+10+035.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493829658901960402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TD4A95tbVtI/AAAAAAAAB64/HPhO3xKc9dU/s400/7+11+10+035.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TD4AIv-sXsI/AAAAAAAAB6w/Hj0mv9xQFSg/s1600/7+11+10+037.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493828745756958402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TD4AIv-sXsI/AAAAAAAAB6w/Hj0mv9xQFSg/s400/7+11+10+037.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Sam has been so busy this summer. There have only been a handful of days that he hasn't had a friend over or been invited to one of their houses. Mostly it's been our house. "You're so lucky not to have a brother," one kid yelled as they ran out to the pool. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Playdates</span> have blurred edges at our house. If it's close to dinner time, there will just be an extra place at the table.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">This recipe easily lends itself to adding one more chicken breast to the marinade and it's a definite kid <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">pleaser</span>. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></strong><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/3 cup mustard, Dijon is perfect, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">spicy</span> brown would be nice, just don't use "that yellow stuff" as Sam says</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/4 cup honey</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 tsp minced garlic</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 TB light <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">mayonnaise</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 tsp steak sauce</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Mix all, but the chicken breasts in a small mixing bowl. Place chicken breasts in a zip bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken. Seal bag and toss to coat. Refrigerate chicken and the reserved marinade for at least 2 hours. If you're using frozen chicken breasts, just let them defrost overnight in the marinade. Preheat your grill for medium high heat Remove chicken from bag. Discard marinade. Grill for 7 minutes per side, basting cooked side with reserved marinade. Be sure chicken is completely cooked through and has an internal temp of 165 degrees. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-89346129123226728932010-07-12T16:19:00.004-05:002010-07-12T16:37:42.781-05:00You Say Tomato...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TDuHmXhRf-I/AAAAAAAAB6o/CjcfEIQhXDk/s1600/7+12+10+012.jpg"><span style="font-family:arial;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493133263726804962" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TDuHmXhRf-I/AAAAAAAAB6o/CjcfEIQhXDk/s400/7+12+10+012.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">If you get a cool day this summer, you must use your garden bounty to make this treat. I try to roast tomatoes whenever I can. This is a slow roast recipe. You can also roast them on your grill if it's too hot. <a href="http://biz319.wordpress.com/2010/04/20/grilled-tomato-soup/">Biz over at Biggest Diabetic Loser </a>has a great recipe for grilled tomato soup that's to die for. (Thanks Biz!) Instructions for grilling tomatoes can be found at her wonderful website. Be warned, you will find yourself lost in her fabulous pictures and recipes. </span><br /><p><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></p><p><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Roasted Tomatoes</span></strong></p><p><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Use in pasta or rice salads, to toss with basil and hot pasta, or eat directly from the fridge. Great on cooked chicken or fish. Mix with roasted peppers and put on a sandwich. Mix with white beans, fresh basil......If you can't figure out what to do with them, drop them off at my house! Yum.</span></em></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Line a big pan with parchment paper. Wash and slice your cherry tomatoes in half or chop regular tomato into bite size pieces (I've never tried this, but I'm sure it will work). Slicing the tomatoes is a tedious job that you can pawn off on your kids. Add several cloves of garlic, unpeeled or peeled. I was lazy the day I made this, so I left them unpeeled. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Then roast in your preheated 225 degree oven for 3 hours. Your house will smell amazing. Cool and store in a covered container in your fridge. </span></p><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TDuHl6uycjI/AAAAAAAAB6g/k5eXjqwstGA/s1600/7+12+10+003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493133255998861874" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TDuHl6uycjI/AAAAAAAAB6g/k5eXjqwstGA/s400/7+12+10+003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-92187009217326420072010-07-05T10:30:00.007-05:002010-07-05T11:15:20.019-05:00K.o.S<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TDICD33AwVI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/hC1XK4wjBCw/s1600/7+4+09+013.jpg"></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">There are a few things that people do not tell you about motherhood. One of the biggest kept secrets is that your job title becomes the official K.o.S (Keeper of Shit). And it's not an honorable title. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Everyone will look to you when they can't find their own stuff.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">And it's not just your kids.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I think a long time ago, when people had less shit, this was a much more <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">desirable</span> title. And then they built castles and it all went to hell.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I've been accused of stealing and secretively hiding away:</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><ul><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">remote controls</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">fireworks</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">rocket engines</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">men's</span> size small underwear</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">bike locks</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">keys to a car I rarely drive </span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">the checkbook</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">the other checkbook</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">an iPhone</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">a game case for an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Xbox</span> game (even though my thumbs haven't evolved enough to use a controller like that)</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">a set of screwdrivers</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">a tape measure (that actually is MINE)</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">a boys size <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">xl</span> swimsuit</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">beach towels</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">the camera</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">the video camera</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">our passports</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">sunglasses </span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">fishing gear</span></li><br /><br /><li><span style="font-family:Arial;">some sort of tool that I couldn't identify even if my life depended upon it</span></li></ul><div><br /><br /></div><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">all for my own personal enjoyment and satisfaction.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">The K.o.S title has even prompted me to only own purses that can hold just my shit. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">We had my mom over for dinner and blowing up stuff for the Fourth. Panicked and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">stricken</span>, Sam came bursting into the room with a dire emergency. He couldn't recharge his phone. <span style="color:#ff0000;">"I've looked everywhere."* </span>Darren and I were <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">unfazed</span> by the emergency phone cord loss. It happens almost every day. Mom wanted to call out the National Guard. But, I held strongly to the beliefs that</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">a. It's not my phone and if he wants the perk of having a phone he has to be responsible for said phone and all it's cords, attachments, do-dads and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">deelie</span>-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">boppers</span> (Those were all extra and were paid for out of said owner's allowance.)</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">b. Responsibility training is a difficult, but essential part of my job.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">c. Never treat an only child as if they're the complete center of the universe if you don't have to.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></p><br /><br /><div><br /></div><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">I have to wonder if they ever ask themselves why I never ask them where my shit is.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></p><div><br /><br /></div><p><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#ff0000;">*This phrase is a prerequisite when approaching the K.o.S. The speaker must convey the extreme peril of the situation and his already thorough searching.</span></p>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-78727505860753880742010-06-30T16:02:00.005-05:002010-06-30T16:41:25.764-05:00<span style="font-family:arial;">There's an incredible sense of helplessness when you, as a parent, have to watch from the sidelines when your child tackles an incredibly difficult problem. I'm not talking math, here. I'm talking the growing pains of being an almost teenager.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">There is no specific problem facing Sam at this time, so no one need feel slighted, but after speaking with a friend about mean girl behavior already occurring with her young daughter, it just got me thinking. We moms have to frequently balance the mother lion in us with the teacher. And it's not easy. The mean girls don't go away as you grow older. And they're not just girls either. You'll have mean, bitchy, unfair coworkers, roommates, lab partners, and neighbors. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">So, it's time to learn how to deal with it. And that's how my friend feels as well. So much easier to be friends with someone if their parenting style is similar. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I'm often frustrated with helicopter parents who hover above and rarely let their kid tackle things on their own. I'm more of a sideliner. I'm there when you need me, but I'm not going to do it for you (ie become Mother Lion) until you've given it your all.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Forgive me if this is your style, but maybe it's time for you to hear that you're hindering rather than helping your child. Type their report for them now and they won't be able to do it in high school or college. Make a laser for a science project in fourth grade and they'll want you to go one better in fifth grade. Fight their battle before they get a chance to and they'll always look to you first.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I don't care what baggage your kid carries or what abilities they have, our job has but one description: teach them to fly. And you can't do it for them.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I remember the mother of a handicapped child that told me the difference between parenting this daughter and her siblings. "Well," she said, "it's simple. You know how with your son when he's learning something, you kind of put it just out of his reach so that he has to struggle a bit to get it? Well, with her, I put it even further." </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I thought that was amazing. Her point? She's always going to have to work harder to live independently, so she pushes her now to get her there so she's never robbed of a life of her own. Brava.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-74237528352190870002010-06-30T11:22:00.004-05:002010-06-30T12:02:08.847-05:00Another Dinner on the Run<span style="font-family:arial;">I'm sitting here watching a rainbow of birds fluttering around the feeders in my yard: red Cardinals, orange Orioles, yellow Goldfinches, green Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, blue Bluejays and Bluebirds, and purple Housefinches. I love my birds.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Sam is at golfing with a friend, so I decided to come home and race around for an hour to see what I could get done and then take the rest of the time just for me. I've had a serious deficit of recharge time this summer and so has Sam, so we're working on that, together.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Last night the young man was headed out with his heroes to launch some rockets. So, dinner had to be early and quick.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">My go-to recipe if I have ground lamb available is Gyros. Ordinarily, I make my own pitas (they're so easy), and Tzatziki sauce, but I was super time crunched. So, I bought both. (I know, GASP)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Easy Gyros</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 lb lean ground lamb</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">a small chopped onion</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 TB garlic</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Lots of fresh parsley, basil, thyme,rosemary---if you have to use dry, go for it anyway. Just measure about 1 tsp of each in your palm and toss in the bowl</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Mix all of the above together <strong>early in the day or the night before if you can.</strong> Keep refrigerated until ready to use. Then brown in a skillet and drain off any excess grease. Serve on warmed pita bread with Tzatsiki sauce, sliced tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Be warned. These are so yummy, you may not speak for the entire meal. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"><strong>My Tzatsiki Sauce</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"><em>This is party size, scale down or enjoy as a veggie dip or burger topper (you're welcome), salad dressing, slaw dressing, etc. Does not freeze. </em></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">2 medium cucumbers<br />2 (16 ounce) containers sour cream<br />1 (16 ounce) container <strong>Greek</strong> yogurt (very important, but any plain yogurt will do)<br />2 tablespoons minced garlic<br />1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil<br /><br />Peel cucumbers and grate into a colander lined with paper towels. Squeeze out excess water.<br />Mix together sour cream, yogurt, garlic, and olive oil in a large bowl. Stir in cucumbers. Chill at least 30 minutes. Fresh dill is a nice addition. </span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-53187113233399947662010-06-29T07:55:00.005-05:002010-06-30T11:15:23.011-05:00Desperation Marination<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TCn9vckzV-I/AAAAAAAAB1Q/VBb1hz2N8dY/s1600/100_0644.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488196612493891554" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TCn9vckzV-I/AAAAAAAAB1Q/VBb1hz2N8dY/s400/100_0644.JPG" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Usually at the beginning of the summer, right before school lets out, I make a ton of marinades and put them in the freezer or I organize a Marinade Exchange, like a Christmas cookie exchange. This year, I didn't get either done.</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">This summer has been nuts. We haven't had one full day at home yet. My house is a complete pit. My garden has weeds that could double as produce (that of course the rabbits and deer don't touch!) and I've been grabbing the odd hours I can here and there to try to squeeze things in. Last night I found myself laying in the back yard at 9 pm, exhausted, and unable to get up. The boys had run to the bike store and to get some sand and river rock for the pool and water garden and I decided to play dead when they came home so I wouldn't have to help haul it from the car.</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I could hear the dryer buzzing through the open windows and I knew if I didn't get the clothes out, Sam would have no shorts to wear the next day. But, I was able to Mom Rationalize that he could just wear his swimsuit or I'd get to them in the morning.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">I came to with Sam peering over me with a mostly eaten giant bag of Peanut M&Ms saying, "I know you're not dead. You moved." Great. "SHE'S NOT DEAD, DAD." Bet the neighbors loved that.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">And then I finally came to understand why that woman on the commercials who all these years has mystified me with her, "I've fallen and I can't get up." Aside from not falling, I was just like her. I couldn't get up. Now, it wasn't just that I was in fear that while I was sound asleep in the yard one of the dogs had left something undesirable for me to roll onto as I got up. Nope, it was middle age. It hit me right there in the yard. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Forty minutes later, I staggered upstairs, attempted to read, attempted to watch a little BBC news, and then attempted to shut D's bedside lamp off with mental telepathy. Didn't work. That's the last thing I remember.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Dire days like this require crisis cooking. This is a little marinade that was a success after a short streak of abysmal experimental cooking. (Don't ask, that's what ketchup is for.)</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><strong>Candied Pork Chops</strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><em>Now, bear with me because this seems a little weird, but we loved it. I figured that root beer and colas are featured in lots of bbq, why not try it in a marinade. I wouldn't attempt this on any other meat, well, maybe chicken. My experiments haven't gone that far yet.</em></span></div><br /><div><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></em></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Lean, center-cut, bone in pork chops, or pork loin chops, not too thick!---<em>Now I'm getting inspired to slow cook this on a pork butt or cushion meat</em></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">One can or bottle of root beer</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">a good glug of Worcestershire sauce</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">hot sauce to taste</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">salt and pepper to taste</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Marinate as long as you can. Remove chops and grill 5-7 minutes on each side until done. You could dump all in a bag and freeze it, thaw in the refrigerator when you're ready to use. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-19576421831904913602010-06-28T09:08:00.004-05:002010-06-28T09:28:57.844-05:00Making Choices<span style="font-family:arial;">It hits me smack dab in the soul when I hear or receive the snide comment of one woman to another. Apparently, mean girls do grow up, and they don't change a bit. </span><span style="font-family:Arial;">It's all about choices and if you're secure in yours than you really shouldn't have to cut down someone else to make you feel better.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I've been on both sides of the Mom Wars, working vs. stay at home, and they're both equally hard. Just in different ways. And it's all about choices. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">When Sam was little and I was home full time, we definitely lived on less. I didn't want to miss a minute in exchange for a bigger house payment or more stuff. So, our living room was empty for a while (great for a toddler on the go!). He still remembers playing elephant cage behind the hand me down love seat that was the sole piece of furniture in the room.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">When I worked 24/7 for my business, I didn't have weekends, but I had the fulfillment of something that was my very own and a lot of challenges to face head on and solve. Great for me, but not so great for my family. Sam got lost in the shuffle and it took a year or so after we sold it to get him back. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">But, this is what works for me. If you're a full time, work outside the home mom, and you're ok with daycare and weekends filled with errands and laundry, then go. Do. Be. But, if you feel tremendously guilty about all this, sell your stuff, make the sacrifices, and stay with your kids. It's a pretty simple choice. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Wandering around Facebook, linking from one person that I know to one that I used to know to one that I barely knew, to someone that person knows... I came across a snarky comment that precipitated this rant.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">It saddens me that we're still fighting over this dumb issue. What a waste of time when we could be ruling the world! </span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-73027625622781227042010-06-07T19:30:00.003-05:002010-06-07T19:58:24.149-05:00<span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TA2PRv8iI6I/AAAAAAAABxQ/nMzXxLKeHus/s1600/Raspberry+Jam.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480193856670671778" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TA2PRv8iI6I/AAAAAAAABxQ/nMzXxLKeHus/s400/Raspberry+Jam.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><span style="font-family:arial;">I do know how to can things, but sometime I just don't have the time. I love freezer jam. It's easy and it tastes great, it's cheap if you already have the jars or containers, and it uses up fruit that you froze for the winter last year with good intentions of using it and then discover it right around the time that said fruit becomes ripe again one year later. (English teachers have fun with that sentence.)<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"><strong>I Don't Have Time to Make Jam, Raspberry Jam</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"><span style="font-family:arial;">3 cups prepared fruit (buy about 6 cups fully ripe red raspberries)</span></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"><span style="font-family:arial;">5-1/4 cups sugar, measured into separate bowl </span></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"><span style="font-family:arial;">3/4 cup water</span></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"><span style="font-family:arial;">1 box SURE.JELL Fruit Pectin Make It! </span></span><br /><span style="color:#660000;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />Run small canning jars or plastic containers through your dishwasher on a turbo heat, antibacterial cycle, be sure to use the dry cycle. Time it so jars are hot and dry when you're ready to fill them.<br /><br />CRUSH raspberries thoroughly, one layer at a time. (Press half of pulp through a sieve to remove seeds, if desired. This is dumb, but it's in the original recipe, so if you really want to stain your hands your counter tops, and make a big mess, go ahead.) Measure exactly 3 cups crushed raspberries into large bowl. Stir in sugar. Let stand 10 min., stirring occasionally.<br /><br />MIX water and pectin in small saucepan. Bring to boil on high heat, stirring constantly. Continue boiling and stirring 1 min. Add to fruit mixture; stir 3 min.or until sugar is almost dissolved and no longer grainy. (A few sugar crystals may remain.) Make some toast and taste it. This is required.<br /><br />FILL containers immediately to within 1/2 inch of tops. Wipe off top edges of containers; immediately cover with lids. Let stand at room temperature 24 hours. Jam is now ready to use. Store in refrigerator up to 3 weeks or freeze extra containers up to 1 year. Thaw in refrigerator before using. Be sure to put one in your fridge and make some Cream Biscuits (recipe below) for supper. You can thank me later.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Cream Biscuits</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">The shortening is in the whipping cream, no need to cut it in. Makes biscuit making so easy. Great camping recipe, they bake up easily in your Dutch oven. You can cut or just make drop-style biscuits (drop from spoonfuls) if you could care less if Martha approves of your biscuits.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#660000;">2 cups self-rising flour, plus more for dusting<br />1 tablespoon sugar<br />1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream<br /><br /><br />Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.<br /><br />In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, and cream until the dough forms a ball. Turn the dough out onto a surface dusted with additional flour. Fold the dough in 1/2 and knead 5 to 7 times, adding just enough flour to keep dough from sticking to your hands. Gently roll out dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch biscuit cutter coated with flour, cut dough into biscuits. Place on baking sheet coated with cooking spray, leaving at least 1-inch between each biscuit. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.</span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-44753987860789524692010-06-02T13:48:00.005-05:002010-06-02T16:06:40.784-05:00What are We Doing to Our Kids?<object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/--zDyLGQYGk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/--zDyLGQYGk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/TAayzKvr27I/AAAAAAAABpY/Q1SJlRr1rNI/s1600/Itasca+155.jpg"></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">A second, let me repeat, SECOND ninth grader at my son's future high school committed suicide. The first, through the parent rumor mill (not a completely unreliably source, but yet still taken with much salt), did so due to sheer exhaustion. The second, well, as yet I know no details, but I would suspect that the same contributed.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">We live in a frazzled world and the pressures on our kids are beyond belief. My son is clipping away towards the end of his sixth grade year just barely keeping his head above water. Twelve hour days would be easy at this point. Yesterday, it was a 15 hour day and that's just school and homework. We vetoed a golf lesson, which would have been a nice break, but there just wasn't enough time. Math homework. Social studies project. Instrument practice. Book reports. Reading. At one point I caught him sound asleep on top of his homework. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">What ever happened to watching the clouds roll by? Whatever happened to play? Isn't it truly a sign of the times that organizations are now offering classes about how to play with your kids or how important it is to get your kids outside? This was unheard of not too long ago. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">There's something that's happened to parenting that is breaking my heart. I call it Competitive Parenting and there are no winners, just kids that lose out on childhood. "Well, we're so busy," the conversation usually begins. And then it's flop back and forth trying to one up one another. "High performance math? My son bypassed that and is now at MIT finishing his doctorate." "We have hockey, cheer leading, and a class on identifying trees tonight. Tomorrow is the science fair. Ben made a laser and shot a hole in the moon. Don't worry, we got a permit from NASA."</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">But, then there are the real conversations with parents focused on the happiness and well being of their kids. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">And we're worried. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">It's too much on their shoulders. It's. Just. Too. Much.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">We've seriously considered chucking it all and heading for the hills, but it's too late for that. Sam loves his friends and a move would destroy him.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Meanwhile, we sit and wait for the next one to fall.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">When we carry our babies we hope for health and happiness. Where does this get lost in the shuffle?</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">The news of this latest suicide lies heavily on me. I feel as if I'm working through a fog today. I'm emotional and scared and ticking off the tasks that Sam has yet to complete just today and none of them are ever going to make a damn bit of difference in his life when it comes right down to it. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">In one day this Spring I received nine catalogs touting enrichment courses for kids. Camp this and class that. I tossed them all and I encourage you to do the same. Shred em. Put them in the recycling, go immediately to your calendar and write play on every day. And then do it. All summer. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">And when the school year comes around again, ask yourself how you can help your kids learn the real lessons of balance, relaxation, stress relief, happiness, and joy. Remind yourself of those moments not so long ago of their impending arrival into your life when you wished for health and happiness and then make it happen.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Those lessons are just as important as anything else. Nope, scratch that, they're more important. And until we start making sure that they are, our kids are at risk.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Peace to the family. Peace to her friends, teachers, and anyone else torn apart by grief. Peace to all those touched by her life and wounded by her passing. Peace.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-39449375118060544462010-05-27T08:24:00.003-05:002010-05-27T08:36:55.255-05:00Excuse Me While I Pull My Heart out of My Mouth<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S_51E_3vdWI/AAAAAAAABpQ/l2-4xUHsab8/s1600/5+9+09+016.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475942925654259042" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S_51E_3vdWI/AAAAAAAABpQ/l2-4xUHsab8/s400/5+9+09+016.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">The big adventures of childhood, independent journeys that help one grow and learn.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">Hmmm. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">It all sounds good in theory, but when you're out adventuring, I'm holding my heart in my mouth and doing Lamaze breathing. I knew that technique would come in handy some day. It certainly didn't do anything but give D something to do while I labored away!<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Arial;">Baby steps. They just keep getting bigger.<br /><br /></span></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-1049560833919681302010-05-25T08:59:00.001-05:002010-05-25T08:59:00.423-05:00Make Ahead Black Beans<span style="font-family:arial;">I love to make things from scratch whenever possible. Reading a label and wondering just what the heck some of the ingredients are is one reason. Homemade food is healthier, cheaper, and doesn't take as much time as one might think.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I made these beans in the crockpot last week. We've had them as a side with fajitas, in burritos, and mixed with cooked Chorizo sausage and served over rice. I've got at least 2 more meals in the freezer. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><strong>Make Ahead Black Beans</strong></span><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></strong><br /><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Much better than canned! Season up or down according to your family's taste preferences. The beans require an overnight soak, so plan ahead.</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span></em><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 bag dried black beans, <u>soak in water overnight to soften</u> Rinse in the morning. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Place in your crock pot:</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 large green pepper, seeded and chopped</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 onion, chopped</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">8 cups of water (at least, make sure there's plenty to cover the beans) </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 cloves of garlic, minced</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 tsp dried oregano</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 tsp cumin</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Cook on low all day. One hour (if you've got it!) before serving, add:</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">salt to taste</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/4 cup white wine</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 TB red wine vinegar</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 TB sugar</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">a drizzle of olive oil</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Taste and adjust seasonings. You may add green chiles, jalapenos, red pepper flakes, etc.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-816692935437725642010-05-24T08:42:00.003-05:002010-05-24T08:59:15.134-05:00A Cold Salad on a Hot Day<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S_qCccWt8II/AAAAAAAABpA/UWAwWtmuGLo/s1600/5+22+10+016.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474831722181685378" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S_qCccWt8II/AAAAAAAABpA/UWAwWtmuGLo/s400/5+22+10+016.jpg" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Honestly, I made this a week ago when it was cold and rainy. Try menu planning in Minnesota. I've been grilling in the rain and making soup when it's 75. Ugh.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I normally don't post recipes that still need a little work, but this one does. It's a great base recipe, but I need to work on it. Taste and season well, I've included my suggestions in italics.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"><strong>Sweetpea Slaw</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Place in a large bowl:</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 packages of stringless sugar snap peas</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 cups matchstick cut carrots (or thinly slice in your food processor)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 1/2 cups shredded red cabbage</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">One bunch of green onions, cleaned and thinly sliced</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Mix and toss with salad:</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">4 TB seasoned rice vinegar</span><br /><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger</span></em><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">Juice of 1/4 lemon</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">2 TB olive oil</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1/2 tsp salt--<em>taste and increase if you wish</em></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">1 tsp sesame oil</span><br /><em><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">red pepper flakes to taste</span></em><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;">I think you could add any crisp veggie. Radishes would be nice. I'm up for your suggestions. It's really pretty, perfect for the heat wave we're having here. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#660000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-79185333360548212062010-05-13T08:23:00.001-05:002010-05-13T08:24:44.522-05:00Have You Seen This Guy?<p><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/R12QVtuB0_Q&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/R12QVtuB0_Q&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;">Sam Tsui. His Glee cover of Don't Stop Believing is fantastic too.</span> </p>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-74503965795485940562010-04-30T08:16:00.002-05:002010-04-30T08:22:26.838-05:00Happy May Day!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S9rZXfVAHuI/AAAAAAAABno/EVhnC9CYVOM/s1600/4+26+10+008.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465920095337324258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S9rZXfVAHuI/AAAAAAAABno/EVhnC9CYVOM/s400/4+26+10+008.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S9rZW3noG3I/AAAAAAAABng/fBBAM_J041M/s1600/4+26+10+010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465920084678024050" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S9rZW3noG3I/AAAAAAAABng/fBBAM_J041M/s400/4+26+10+010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S9rYrinCkOI/AAAAAAAABnY/wp8O0b0pEzA/s1600/4+26+10+012.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465919340304044258" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_65BDeFtSiJk/S9rYrinCkOI/AAAAAAAABnY/wp8O0b0pEzA/s400/4+26+10+012.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;">One of my favorite places to hang out in my house is my front porch. I dressed it up for Spring a few weeks ago. </span> </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4830160022508547327.post-27396737393646931772010-04-28T09:48:00.001-05:002010-04-28T10:05:41.146-05:0020 Minutes Well Spent<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gLBE5QAYXp8&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gLBE5QAYXp8&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Elizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922051288747124518noreply@blogger.com0