Thursday, January 31, 2008
CARROT TIP
I need all the help I can get on finding things that Bill can eat. I thought that eating chicken was okay for his gout diet. However, yesterday the doctor said that he can only eat the white meat. Now that narrows our list down even further. He's taking the news pretty good although he is getting tired of chicken. I do throw a little fish in now and then. The diet doesn't allow certain kinds and he really doesn't care for any unless it's fried. And frying is definitely out!!
We have been playing his Wii wrestling game and it's fun. It's really fun making your alter-ego wrestler. Bill is practicing up so that he can be better when him and Ricky wrestle again.
Chris left today for Milwaukee for her grandson's birthday. We'll still talk as usual. I know how she hates cold as much as I do and it is cold there. I don't go anywhere up North unless it is an emergency in the cold weather. Luckily, there hasn't been any for me in a few years. Now I am going to get back to doing my chores. I am going to try to get them done early today so I will not be on the computer for the rest of the day. Tomorrow I am taking my nephew and his two kids to the Science Center. This is their first time going and I love it there. I have a membership that I use for us and our grandchildren. Anyhow, have a great day and stay safe.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Tips on Garlic--Grill Racks
#2. A clean grill rack will help prevent meat from sticking during cooking. Just firmly rub a wire brush over the rack after the grill has been sufficiently heated.
BE CAREFUL!
I am going to celebrate my grandson's 5Th birthday up North. They closed the schools in Wisconsin today, due to very cold weather. I have a hard time with the cold weather, I hope the wind is calm and the sun is bright. I will be on that slow computer of my daughter's, so bare with me over the next 10 days. I hate to fly but driving 15 hours at this time of year alone is out. Remember to be safe and very conscious about your surroundings. Like my 92 year Mother says " EVIL NEVER SLEEPS ".
EVER WONDER THE CAUSE OF STOMACH GURGLING?
Today was just a regular day for me.Nothing much, just did a little grocery shopping and doing laundry. I have to go with Bill in the morning to a new doctor that is being added to his long list of doctors. This time it is a rheumatologist because of his gout's tendency to keep recurring. So now I am going to take a load out of the washer and into the drier, put another load in the washer and go to bed. Have sweet dreams!!
Monday, January 28, 2008
FOLK REMEDY FOR STRESS
Today my sister, Marcy, and I went out to take care of some errands. While we were out we saw Chris' friend, Marcy, who told me about a delicious angel food cake recipe which would be great for Bill's diet. She is going to give it to Chris to put in the blog. Bill is going to love it!
Now I am going to go enter and play a few online games and contests to see if I can win something. Wish me luck!! Have a restful night.
Honey Mustard Sauce
1/3 Cup Dijon Mustard
1/3 Cup of honey
2 T chopped fresh dill or 1 T dried dill
1 t freshly grated orange peel
Just mix all ingredients together
Very good with chicken. Either dipping or brushing on during cooking. ( TIP )Make measuring honey easier by spraying the measuring cup with vegetable cooking spray. The honey will not stick to the cup.
GRAVY FOR ROASTS, SAUTEED MEATS, OR POULTRY
This recipe is from 1963 and still holds up for a simple and easy gravy.
Remove cooked meat from the pan. Pour off most of the fat, keeping about a tablespoon per cup for flavor. Add 1 cup of stock, either chicken or beef depending on the meat you set aside. Cook over medium heat and scrape the bottom of the pan to get all the meat juices. Remove from heat. In a measuring cup, mix 1 cup of stock with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Whisk this mixture well and you will have a smooth gravy. Whisk this mixture into your pan and cook and stir until thickened. Season to taste. For browner gravy, add gravy color. Simmer for 5 minutes and serve hot.
I know this is an old way and we have all those package gravy's. I just thought you might want to see what we can do with natural meat juices.
Take time for yourself today and have a good laugh with someone. I know I felt better yesterday laughing with friends or even at myself.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
VERY FULL AND FUN DAY!!
My tip for today is to check out http:/rulesofthumb.org. There is some really interesting info there. My other tip is to enjoy each day to the fullest because as has been shown on the news lately we never ever know what tomorrow brings - no mater who you are or how much money you have. Make sure you tell the ones you love or care about how you feel. It is too late after they are gone. Remember, COMMUNICATE, VALIDATE, APPRECIATE now while they are here. Have a great night.
CORN FRITTERS
Friiters
3 eggs separated
1 1/2 cups of creamed corn
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup sifted all purpose flour
1/3 cup fat or oil ( no fat please ) this is an old recipe
Beat egg yolks until light; add corn, seasonings, and flour. Stir to blend. Beat whites until stiff and fold into mixture. Drop by spoonfuls into skillet of hot oil. Cook until brown, turning once. Drain on brown paper bag (or paper towel ).
Serving suggestions are with butter, syrup, or jam. Sides can be sausage or bacon, or they say chicken.
Today is very sunny and nice, about 55. Church was very full, with seating in the aisles. Was good to see all those friendly faces. We are going to Jackie's home this afternoon. She is making a new dish she wants us all to test. LUCKY US! I know it will be good, it always is. Have a Good Sunday!
Saturday, January 26, 2008
RIB-TICKLIN BARBECUE SAUCE--SPICY--ORIENTAL
#1. Barbecue Ticklin
1/2 C Karo light or dark syrup
1/2 C ketchup
1/2 C finely chopped onion
1/4 C cider vinegar
1/4 C prepared mustard
1/4 C Worchestershire sauce
In a sauce pan stir together all ingredients. Stirring frequently, bring to a boil; reduce heat and boil gently for 15 minutes to thicken. ( makes 2 cups )
#2. Spicy sauce, just add 1 tablespoon chili powder and 1 clove garlic, minced.
#3. Oriental sauce, omit Worchestershire sauce. Add 1/4 C soy sauce and 1 t ground ginger.
We went to vote this morning. Weather is cold and rainy. I hope everyone goes to vote when it is your turn. Only the people can make a difference, if we all stand together. ONE NATION UNDER GOD! Doesn't get better than that. Have a great day.
Friday, January 25, 2008
CHOCOLATE MOUSSE PIE
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bake pie crust according to package directions. Remove from oven and cool thoroughly.
- In a medium bow, whisk pudding mix and milk. Fold half of whipped topping into pudding mixture and fold until fully blended.
- Spread pudding mixture into pie crust and top with remaining whipped topping. Sprinkle top with chocolate chips.
Today we went to one of Bill's doctor's appointments. My brother, Ricky, had suggested that Bill go to a day spa for a pedicure since he has such a lot of trouble with his legs and feet. He takes our mother there and she loves it. Bill was really unsure of going, but, decided to try it. The lady that did it was so good that he really loved it. Chris and I have decided that we are going to go and have some services done there ourselves. Bill is going to go next month and get a reflexology treatment done for his legs and feet. After his appointment we came home and ate dinner. Then we went to visit my mother. She is always glad to see us kids, but, especially lights up when Bill walks in the room. She calls him her favorite son-in-law and never allows anyone to say or do anything that she thinks is against him. Bill eats that up, as you can imagine. After Ricky and Annie put her to bed Ricky and Bill played several Wii games. They love it. Annie and I sat there and laughed. After Bill and I came home we set up the internet on our Wii. However, when I went to register on nintendo.com I put in the wrong date for my birth date. I wasn't paying attention and I put in today's date. Now the site won't let me register and says that I have to get my parent's permission. I'll just have to go to another computer to register, I guess. After I do this I am going to bed since it is already 12:30a.m.
Have a great night's sleep. Oh, Chris's tip about putting clear polish on costume jewelry is a really good one. I have been doing this for years and it works great.
Tips---Nail Polish
#1. Secure a screw by brushing some clear nail polish on the screw threads. In sert the screw and let dry before using it again. They say it also helps to keep the screw from rusting.
#2. Stop tarnish of costume jewelry from turning black with a coat of clear polish.
#3. Seal an envelope by brushing the underside of the flap.
#4. Mend a screen hole no bigger than 1/3 inch by brushing a little clear nail polish over the spot.
I need to try the jewelry and the envelope tip. I always have a problem with the envelopes sealing. I think they use less glue or I must buy cheap envelopes.
Please have a mammogram every year. Both of my sister's had breast cancer and survived. My aunt and her daughter did not. Take care of yourself!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
UPDATE ON CHIPS
SOUNDS WEIRD, BUT---------
CRAB CAKES
1 Pound of fresh lump crab meat, well drained and broken into small pieces
1 Red bell pepper, seeded and ribs removed, finely chopped
2 Cloves of garlic, minced
1 Cup canned or frozen kernel corn, drained well
2 Egg whites
1 1/2 Cups dry bread crumbs ( use Italian for more favor )
6 T vegetable oil
A. In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, pepper, garlic, corn, and egg whites. Sprinkle a cutting board with half the bread crumbs. Divide the crab mixture into 12 portions and work on the crumbed surface and press into patties, about 1 inch in diameter. Sprinkle with remaining bread crumbs and press until they hold their shape. I find that if you refrigerate them for an hour or so they hold better. Put together and refrigerate the formed patties in the morning. They will be ready for frying for dinner or lunch.
B. In a large saute pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium to high heat. Saute 4 of the cakes until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towel. Add and heat 2 more tablespoons of the oil in pan and repeat process. Repeat until all crab cakes are cooked.
The Creole sauce is great with these crab cakes. Jackie was right about the Creole sauce for her spaghetti squash. This would be a tasty dish That tasty dish phase is my 92 year old mother's description for a meal she likes. Another one from her is--- this is a good combination ( of food ). She will turn 93 in March.
Stay Safe out there!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
STAY TUNED
Bill is at his meeting and I am watching "Deal Or No Deal" and getting ready for bed. I have a doctor's appointment in the morning so I want to get some rest. Goodnight and sleep tight (whatever that means).
CHRIS'S CREOLE SAUCE ON SPAGHETTI SQUASH
I am fixing dinner right now and one of the things I am making is spaghetti squash. That sauce would be great over it. I don't have all of the ingredients to make the sauce, but, I will the next I make this squash. If you have never tried spaghetti squash before you are missing a treat. It is a mild-flavored squash and delicious. And it looks like spaghetti when you take it out of the shell. These are the directions for cooking it.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut ends off squash and then cut in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and wash and dry both sides.
- Coat a large metal or glass baking dish with cooking spray. Place squash halves face down on baking dish and spray the skins lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove squash meat from rind with fork and place in a medium bowl. Discard rind. Drizzle 1 tsp. olive oil over squash, sprinkle with 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, and stir.
I went through one of my diabetic cookbooks and picked out some recipes that did not include ingredients that Bill can't eat on his gout diet. I wanted to get ideas for cooking different things to make his being on these diets not as bad as it seems. From the ones I looked at I got some ideas and made a shopping list, got up early this morning and came home with my trunk full of groceries. Now I am going to get back to cooking so Bill can eat before he goes to a meeting tonight. Have a great evening.
CREOLE SAUCE
1/2 Jalapeno pepper, remove ribs and seeds and roughly chopped
1 14 1/2 ounce can tomatoes and their juices
2 T tomato paste
1/4 t cayenne pepper
Make the creole sauce in a food processor or blender. Puree all the ingredients. This sauce is served with crab cakes. I will have that recipe for you tomorrow. Have a good night..........
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS
I didn't do too much today because I spent most of the day waiting for one of my doctors to call me back. One thing I did this evening that was fun was calling an old friend that I used to work with at USAIRWAYS reservation years ago. She now lives in Florida. We talked for about half an hour and I really enjoyed it. It seems that when I get ready to call someone it is late and I feel it is too late to call. This evening I made a point to call her because she had called me the other day and left a voicemail for me. She is such a sweet person.
Now I am going to bed and hope to have a more productive day tomorrow. I do have to go grocery shopping so I know that will take a bit of time. Following Bill's 2 diet restrictions makes my shopping trips even longer than they used to be. Plus I have started shopping with coupons again and loving it. Now that I think of it, I have to write out my shopping list before I go to bed.
Later and sweet dreams!!
FRENCH HERB ROASTED CHICKEN
1 Whole Chicken ( about 4 pounds )
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1/4 Cup McCormick french herb roasting rub
Preheat oven to 375. Place chicken on rack in foil-lined roasting pan. Brush with oil. Rub seasoning evenly over entire chicken.
Roast 1 1/2hours or until chicken is cooked through.
Not much going on today. I don't have much energy, I did do a lot yesterday. I really have the urge to start spring planting but it is to early even for the south. We will have planting and gardening starting in March and I look forward to that. Organization and spring cleaning too. It always helps to de-clutter your living space. You can make money with a yard sale, donate to an organization, or just pass it along. I promise to unload those clothes I will never wear or get into this spring. Later!
Monday, January 21, 2008
TIP TO CLEAN REALLY DIRTY WINDOWS
Well, I worked outside since it was so cold and had no snakey encounters. Thank you, God!! The area that I was working in I know would have a snake or two in if it was warmer. I cleaned out quite a bit of pine straw and could have taken more out. As it was, I removed 7 wheelbarrows of the stuff. I hate pine straw!! If we could afford it, I would have all 6 of our pine trees on our front lawn cut down. We had 2 cut down a few months ago. I am going to bed now and hope my aching arms and back feel better in the morning.
Have a good night!!
BUG KILLER--SPLINTER REMOVER--ANTISEPTIC
B. Splinter remover--Just pour a drop of Elmer's Glue-All over the splinter, let dry and peel the dried glue off the skin. The splinter sticks to the dried glue.
C. Antiseptic--Balm for broken blisters-- dab on a few drops of Listerine on the blister, a powerful antiseptic.
I hope everyone had a good weekend. My team tanked the big game. Over the years winning has gotten less important, which makes it, much less stressful.
As for my dear friends, they can count on me to save a seat for them in church. Where is the compassion for others? I will always go out there for others and no one will hear me say " I don't want to get involved in something that you know is RIGHT". You can't stick your head in the sand. I know that church always doesn't bring out the good in people and I do know there is a lot of behind the door gossip. I can live with all of that because of good friends and family. Have a blessed day!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
DIABETES/GOUT DIET FOR BILL
Our little church's membership has grown and if you don't get there early enough you might have to sit on a chair in the aisle. These old bones won't do well sitting on a metal chair for about an hour. It surely wouldn't be good for Bill. I always try to get there early to avoid that. However, Bill never sees a need for urgency in leaving the house. Chris always gets there early and if we are not there she saves seats for us. Well, today, Bill was his usual slow self and I was fuming. I dropped Bill off and went to park the car. As usual, Chris tried to save us seats and she got a little speech about saving seats from a couple of the church members. She let a couple of ladies in the pew and Bill and then she sat in a chair in the aisle. When I went in, I was going to sit in a chair across the aisle, but, one of the choir members said I could sit in the empty seat next to her. I apologize to Chris for what happened because of us today. But we know that some people just like to have something to complain or fuss about.
It is sooooooo cold here that there could not possibly be any snakes anywhere close to coming out. In fact, it is so cold that I don't even want to go out. But, I have to so I can get that work done. So I guess I better get to bed and get some rest. Tomorrow I will work on setting up my weekly menu and shopping list for Bill's diet restrictions. Goodnight and stay warm!!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
NFC PLAY OFF SALSA VERDE
1 Large tomato, diced
4 large cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2 bunches of parsley, stems removed and finely chopped
1 2oz jar of sliced pimientos, drained and finely chopped
1 T capers
1/4 C red wine vinegar
1/2 C olive oil
1/4 C vegetable oil
1/4 t freshly ground pepper
In a large bowl mix all chopped ingredients and capers together. Add vinegar and mix well. Slowly add both oils to all ingredients. The oil will absorb all the flavors. Enjoy this salsa and the NFC championship game. GO PACK!
ANCHO DIP
I HAVE A PLAN
I will be back on later with either a recipe or a tip. Maybe both. Have a great day!
TIPS TO TRY
Now for some tips I have, to pass along to you...
#1. Did you know that Colgate toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns.
#2. Sore throat? Just mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of honey and take 1 tablespoon six times a day. The vinegar kills the bacteria. I do know that gargling with warm salt water aways helps me.
#3. Honey remedy for skin blemishes...Cover the blemish with a dab of honey and place a band-aid over it. Honey kills the bacteria, keep the skin sterile and speeds healing. As a teen I would use toothpaste. Just a dab and let it dry overnight. Who had money to buy expensive products. It would work.
Hope one of these tips works for you. The only two I have used, is the warm water and salt. This takes my sore throat pain away quick. The toothpaste for blemishes worked when I was young. I don't know if the tooth paste now, have the same ingredients as it did back than.
Stay safe!
ONLY GOOD THINGS ABOUT COLD WEATHER
Friday, January 18, 2008
ALMOND LIQUER
TIPS FOR YOUR PETS
#1. Eliminate ear mites. All it takes is a few drops of Wesson corn oil in your cats ear. Message it in, than clean with a cotton ball. Repeat daily for 3 days. This soothes the cats skin, smothers the mites and accelerates healing.
#2. Kill fleas instantly... Dawn dish washing liquid does the trick. Add a few drops to your dogs bath and shampoo the animal thoroughly. Rinse well to avoid skin irritation. I shampooed my dog George the other day and there is a lot less itching. The rinsing well with clean water helps.
#3. Rainy day cure for dog odor...Next time your dog comes in from the rain, simply wipe down the animal with a dryer sheet. It helps your dog smell better. George is a 95% outside dog, he needs more than a dryer sheet. Hope it works for you.
So these are my tips for today. I hope you try them. I feel being honest with these tips is going to help all of you. I try to pick out the ones, I have used. Again thanks for all your comments and helping me out with the tip I needed.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
MEDITERRANEAN PIZZA
I haven't been outside since Tuesday because I hate the cold. Thank goodness the little bit of snow that we got yesterday was gone almost as soon as it fell. I will have to go out tomorrow to get some groceries and pick up some medicine refills. I think it will be just as cold, but, I have to do it. Marcy made more sushi today and it was just as good as yesterday's. Well, stay warm and have a wonderful night.
- Preheat oven to 450F. In small bowl, stir cheese, garlic, and oregano and add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Dapple crust with crumbled cheese mixture, leaving 1" rim around edge. Scatter pepper strips and artichoke hearts on top of cheese.
- Slide pizza directly onto oven rack and bake 12 minutes or until crust crisps and cheese melts. Remove pizza from oven, cut into eighths, and serve hot.
BLUE DAWN DISH WASHING SOAP REPELS ANTS---MANICURE SECRET
Manicure secret--Soak fingers in full strength blue dawn. It makes the cuticles soft and easy to work with. It removes natural oil from fingernails. Less oil means polish adheres better.
Repel ants-- Spray counter tops, cupboards and any area where you see ants with a solution of dawn soap and water. Wipe dry. The slight residue of dawn that remains will not be a problem for kids or pets, but ants hate it. Should you see ants, go ahead and hit them with the dawn spray--it will kill them.
I live in the south and fire ants are a big problem. I have purchased many items that say it will kill them for the summer. I have had only temporary luck.
PLEASE -- could anyone tell me their tip for killing fire ants, without killing the grass?
Please also reach out to family and friends. You would be surprise how alone some people are. They need a good word or just a few minutes of your time to talk. Have a good day!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
MARCY MADE GREAT SUSHI
It is snowing here now, but, it won't last long. I peeked out at it and have no desire to go out in it. I had enough of that in Pittsburgh. I won't even go visit Pittsburgh during the "snow" season. I would not feel comfortable driving in the snow, that is for sure. Even if I were to fly there, I would have to rent a car and drive. I certainly would not even consider driving there during this time. Several years ago Chris, Dennis, Bill and I lost some very dear friends, Sue and Bernie Wade. They were killed in an accident driving to Pittsburgh in December in the dreaded snow. They were a beautiful part of our lives that we lost much too early.
Bill's gout flared up today so now I have to combine a diabetes diet with a gout diet. Poor thing can eat just about nothing. But, we will survive. Now I am going to sign off of here to go get some menu ideas together combining both diets. I will have some recipes for you later on that.
KITCHEN SAFETY TIPS
#1. Keep poisonous cleaners in a separate cabinet and not under a sink. Even a locked cabinet can be opened by a curious child. You might have to store them above but it is worth the inconvenience.
#2. Don't fight a grease fire with water. Keep an all purpose fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Keep lid from pan handy when frying in oil. Any flare-ups can be smoother by the lid.
#3. Don't let knives or pots handles stick over the edge of a stove or counter top. They can easily be knocked over or pulled off by a child or adult. ( This one happened to a friend with a hot coffee pot and their child ) I know once our children move away we tend to forget these safety tips.
#4. If you cannot get control of any fire, immediately get out of the house! Your life and the life of others are always more important.
I know we all know these tips but it doesn't hurt to go through them again.
HAVE A GREAT AND SAFE DAY.................
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Delicious Shepherd's Pie
I sauteed some cut up onions and peppers. Then I browned a lb. of ground beef with the sauteed vegetables. In the same pan I put a can of seasoned diced tomatoes, juice and all. I then put in a little frozen corn and a little green beans. I sprinkled in some garlic powder, onion powder, a little sea salt and some pepper. As this all simmered, I made some instant mashed potatoes. The amount of potatoes I cooked was a serving for 6. I dropped the potatoes by spoonful on top of the meat mixture in the pan. On top of this I sprinkled some grated cheddar cheese. I put a cover on top and let this simmer for about 15 minutes or until the cheese melted. It turned out delicious and I only dirtied one pan. You can use whatever seasonings or cheese that you want.
BUTTON IT UP----THINK TIP
Monday, January 14, 2008
GREAT LINEN CLOSET TIP FOR LAUNDRY DAY
Today I went with Bill to his neurologist's for a checkup. His blood pressure was higher than usual so we have to watch it. Other than that, everything else is the same. Bill is a smoker and definitely needs to quit smoking. However, he has been smoking for years and the addiction is so hard to break. A couple of months ago he went the patch route and tried to quit. To no avail. The doctor said it is because he has not really made up his mind with a commitment to quit. He gave him a prescription for Chantix today and maybe that can help him to quit when he is ready. Which I hope is soon. I don't nag him about it because it won't help any. The three of us in this house definitely need to lose weight and that is one thing that I have started working on. In fact, the doctor said that Bill had lost 3 lbs. since he left the hospital. Hopefully, we will continue losing.
BLUE DAWN--CLEAN TOOLS--CLEAN YOUR DOG
#1. For your dog, just use as if you were shampooing your hair and raise well. It does not hurt George's skin.
#2. Clean automotive tools by soaking them in a solution of dawn. This removes all oil and grime. They say it will help prevent rust from forming on your tools. Just make sure they are completely dry before putting them away.
The sun is shinning and it is cool. It's Monday and that means wash day and clean bedding. Old habits die hard. It was good enough for my Grandma and my 92 year old Mother. My daughter hangs wash out in the summer to save on her electric bill. Mom would still be hanging bedding on the line to dry but stairs and heavy wash baskets have stopped that Monday ritual.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
SUPER BOWL SNACK - POTATO & CAVIAR APPETIZERS
MANGO SALSA SAUCE
Mangoes can be purchased green and allowed to ripen at room temperature.
Makes 2 Cups
2 ripe mangoes, peeled
2 scallions, thinly sliced
2T chopped cilantro or Chinese parsley
1T grated fresh ginger
Juice of 1 lime
1/2 soy sauce
2 drops Tabasco sauce
Very good on grilled fish or chicken
1. Cut the flesh off both sides of each mango, as close to the large flat seed as possible. Trim any extra from around the edge of the seed. Chop finely.
2. In medium bowl, combine the mangoes and remaining ingredients.
3. Refrigerate.
Have a great day!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
SAFETY TIPS
HORSERADISH CREAM SAUCE
Makes 1 cup---
1C plain yogurt
1t sugar
1t white vinegar
4T fresh grated white horseradish or bottled.
Mix all ingredients together.
Horseradish is native of Southeastern Europe and Western Asia. Horseradish in the United States comes from Illinois farm country or across the Mississippi River from St. Louis. That information was in the cook book I got this recipe from copyright 1992. I think this is pretty interesting.
Took a drive to the rummage sale for the little girl I mentioned in an earlier entry, her family needs help with medical expenses. There were a lot of people and I hope that the sale will be a big success. The sun is out and everyone should take time to look up, you will surprised at what you see and feel.
Friday, January 11, 2008
RED ONION MARMALADE
- Add oil to a medium saucepan over high heat. Add onion and saute for 7 - 10 minutes or until beginning to caramelize.
- Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 -20 minutes or until thickened. Cook until onions are nice and soft.
Nice and tasty!!
My friend, Alba, was the first to call me to say that she had received my Christmas card and letter. However, she understands my situation. She did ask did I have the cards specially made and I told her that I hadn't. I had them since Christmas 2004, but, have been too overwhelmed every year to take the time to send them out. I had made up my mind that I was sending them out this year even if it had to be around St. Patty's Day. Thankfully, I got them out before.
HERB GARDEN IN POTS
CREAMY HERB SAUCE---SALMON
1C mayonnaise
1C sour cream
Zest and juice from 1 lemon
2T white wine vinegar
1/2C chopped flat leaf parsley
1/2C chopped fresh chive
4T chopped fresh dill
Basil leaves (20)
Sea salt- taste
Freshly ground pepper to taste
My husband grows herbs all year round. It really is cost effective and fresh is always better. I do know that taking care of an herb garden is very easy. You can have one in a very small area, inside or out, depending on where you live. There is little to no weeding. You will enjoy just seeing things grow. We have a front porch and have the herbs in pots. Most of the time we can just water and harvest unless unusual frost is predicted. Just cover with plastic for the night and plants should be safe. Give an herb garden a try and lets us know how you are growing fresh herbs and in what region. We can pass your results on to others. Thanks for your interest in our Blog.
COMMUNICATE, APPRECIATE, VALIDATE
Thursday, January 10, 2008
QUICK FIX FOR HICCUPS, HOPEFULLY
Bill is in a class-action lawsuit against Vioxx. He had been taking Vioxx for awhile when he had his strokes. When it was determined that he had a stroke his doctor took him immediately off of it. A little while later it was taken off of the market. Not soon enough, though, to stop the life of a good man from being turned upside down. He is alive, though, and functioning, so we feel very blessed. Anyhow, I started this to say that today we went to the lawyer's office to sign papers. It's a slow process to get to the end because there are so many variables to be considered for them to decide what is going to be a fair settlement for each case. Whatever they decide is not enough for the people who have had their lives severely altered or lost by pure negligence on the pharmaceutical company's part. Money can never make up for what has been lost, but, it can help (no matter how little) with the many medical bills. Plus we have our family and Chris and Dennis (who are really a part of our family) for support. Even more, we have God for support. Surely can't get any better than that.
Okay, enough of that. I mailed my CHRISTMAS cards off today. FINALLY! Won't everyone be surprised when they receive them. I just mailed them to ones that had been sending us cards for the last few years and I couldn't get mine out.
I guess this has been a lot of rambling, but, that is how I am feeling right now. Like a rambler. And I haven't had a drink! More enlightenment from me tomorrow. Goodnight.
MORNAY SAUCE--GREAT FOR PASTA
1T unsalted butter
1T all purpose flour
1C whole or 2% milk
1/8t salt
pinch of freshly ground pepper
freshly grated nutmeg to taste
1/2 coarsely grated Gruyere or Comte' cheese (about 4oz )
Melt butter in a heavy bottom saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook stirring constantly, about 1 minute. (DO NOT LET MIXTURE BROWN)
Add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a low boil and cook stirring about 2 minutes. Add seasonings. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Serve immediately. This is easy and taste great.
Please go through your old and unused items when you have time. I know that there is someone out there, that can benefit from your time and generosity. The Knights of Columbus are hosting a yard sale for a very sick 10 year old and her Family. Jackie and Bill belong to this great organization. Thanks!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
BLUE DAWN BATHROOM CLEANER-----SOAP SCUM
Hope your day goes well and be safe!
DIABETIC HEALTHY TOMATO SAUCE
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
HAND DEGREASER TIP
It will be a great day in the South as soon as the fog lifts. This unusual weather really gets you moving. Unfortunately, this weekend will go back to winter temps. Please don't forget the birds outside, this is an enjoyable hobby feeding them. It is a low cost hobby and you get to see all kinds of birds. I have a woodpecker who feeds everyday along with many cardinals. Just a suggestion to help pass through a long winter. Have a great day!
Monday, January 7, 2008
BLUE DAWN----SPOTS
This tip is one from Marci. Over the next couple of days, there will be more uses for blue dawn dish washing liquid. Jackie and I appreciate all the interest in our blog. Thank you!
HOME FROM HILTON HEAD
I am still trying to get things together that I should have had done. When I do I will be more active and have a lot more for input on this blog. Please send comments to let us know what you would like for us to give as tips or recipes or anything else.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
CHEESE AND HERB SAUCE OR DRESSING
1 C real mayonnaise
1/2 C chopped parsley
1/4 C grated Parmesan cheese
2 T lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 t dried basil leaves
Mix all ingredients well.
You all have a great day!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
*** 3 *** FRESH SAUCES OR DRESSINGS
#1 TRUE BLUE CHEESE
1C real mayonnaise
4oz blue cheese, crumbled
3T milk
2T lemon juice
1T finely chopped onion
2t sugar
1/4t Worcestershire sauce
1/4t dry mustard
1/4t salt
#2 BLUSHIN' RUSSIAN
1C real mayonnaise
1/3C catsup or chili sauce
1/3C chopped pickles
2t lemon juice
2t sugar
#3 DREAMY ITALIAN
1C real mayonnaise
3T milk
2T cider vinegar
1/2t dried oregano leaves
1/2t sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4t salt
1/8t pepper
Just mix all your ingredients together for the recipe you choose. These were from an 1981 magazine that I cut out the page and put it in a folder. I have a lot of these recipes and hope to share them with all of you.
I just wanted to mention my sister-in-law the GREAT cookie maker. She again went all out for her huge family and gave us each a dish of many different cookies. I know we all ate them and enjoyed every bite and calorie. If you look through our many recipes, you will find some of her great cookies. Thanks Cindy!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
EASY EGGS BENEDICT SAUCE
1 can Campbell's cream on mushroom soup
3 eggs yolks
2 T lemon juice
Generous dash hot pepper sauce
1/2 C melted butter
In a blender combine soup, egg yolks, lemon juice, and hot pepper sauce. Cover and blend on high speed for a few seconds. With blender still on high speed, remove cover and very slowly pour in a steady stream of melted butter into the soup mixture. Blend for 3 minutes or until thick. Pour mixture into a sauce pan and heat stirring occasionally.
This is good when you take an English muffin topped with bacon and a poached egg. Pour warm sauce on top.
Weather here is cold and windy. I talked to Jackie and we are planning on joining Jackie and her family in Hilton Head on Friday. They always extend a generous invitation to both Dennis and I, when they have a place at the beach. It is only a 2 1/2 hour drive, so it is very close for all of us. Stay warm!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
SIMPLE MARINARA SAUCE
1/4 C olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 T tomato paste
1 (28 ounce ) can crushed tomatoes, including liquid
3 T minced FRESH basil--fresh makes all the difference
Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, and cook stirring constantly, about 1 minute or until pale golden. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer 10 minutes. Stir in Basil. Makes 3 cups. Easy to double or even triple this sauce. SIMPLE!