Good evening! It has been a long day - some of it painful - more than just my sciatic nerve - but it has certainly demanded its attention!
Last night Travis and I finished the most awesome 3 part series video series on prayer. Did you know that prayer was not created by God just so we could say to God: "give me, give me, give me, or don't let me, or let me, let me, let me?" When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, He didn't say, "Teach you to pray, just go talk to God, that's all it is to it!" He said: "Okay, I will teach you how to pray." Go to Matthew 6:6-13 and see what Jesus tells them. Place and time is important, get alone, praise God, then surrender your will, and ask him to give you your daily bread and to forgive us and to not lead us into temptation. It is an amazing revelation and can change our lives. Even though God doesn't tell us how long to pray - I found out if you start praising God and thanking Him for his all He has created and all He has done for you, and how awesomely great He is -- you can spend quite a long time doing this. Now surrendering your will takes a whole lot longer --oh sure there is a lot you can easily give over to God but it is hard to totally surrender everything to God -- there are some things we want to do that we know God will say: "Whoa - do you think that pleases me?" No, we don't want to bring those things up -- but until we do - God cannot completely give us all He wants to and our relationship won't be complete! Then recognize He gives us everything we own - so why do we try so hard to hold onto every earthly good? And definitely ask God to forgive us - wait a minute "as we forgive those who sin against us' -- I have to do that too? Well - that is what God says -- so guess I had better get busy! What about you? And to lead us not into temptation - I think God can keep us from following temptation if God has our total attention and will. This is just a very short synopsis of the video - but it is so much more rich and compeling. Ask me and I will give you the name of the video.
Here is a precious story I just loved -- human, compassionate - and God's power, maybe??
THE PASTOR'S CAT
This particular story just made me laugh. Every time I think about it, the vision of that poor cat just amuses me to no end. Hope the story leaves a bright spot in your day. Whoever said the Creator doesn't have a sense of humor?
Dwight Nelson recently told a true story about the pastor of his church. He had a kitten that climbed up a tree in his backyard and then was afraid to come down. The pastor coaxed, offered warm milk, etc.
The kitty would not come down. The tree was not sturdy enough to climb, so the pastor decided that if he tied a rope to his car and pulled it until the tree bent down, he could then reach up and get the kitten.
That's what he did, all the while checking his progress in the car. He then figured if he went just a little bit further, the tree would be bent sufficiently for him to reach the kitten. But as he moved the car a little further forward, the rope broke.
The tree went 'boing!' and the kitten instantly sailed through the air - out of sight.
The pastor felt terrible. He walked all over the neighborhood asking people if they'd seen a little kitten. No. Nobody had seen a stray kitten. So he prayed, 'Lord, I just commit this kitten to your keeping,' and went on about his business.
A few days later he was at the grocery store, and met one of his church members. He happened to look into her shopping cart and was amazed to see cat food. This woman was a cat hater and everyone knew it, so he asked her, 'Why are you buying cat food when you hate cats so much?'
She replied, 'You won't believe this,' and then told him how her little girl had been begging her for a cat, but she kept refusing. Then a few days before, the child had begged again, so the Mom finally told her little girl, 'Well, if God gives you a cat, I'll let you keep it.' She told the pastor, 'I watched my child go out in the yard, get on her knees, and ask God for a cat. And really, Pastor, you won't believe this, but I saw it with my own eyes. A kitten suddenly came flying out of the blue sky, with its paws outspread, and landed right in front of her.'
Never underestimate the Power of God and His unique sense of humor.
Anyone can count the seeds in an apple; but only God can count the apples in a seed.
Are you good at making cookies. Cookies are not my favorite thing to make -- they never turn out how I want them to, but here is a recipe from my childhood - that I loved for Mom to make.
CHERRY WINKS
2-1/4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 cup shortening
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup dates
1 cup candied cherries
Mix wells, Roll in balls, then in crushed corn flakes. Bake at 325 degees until lightly browned. Ummmm - take me back to the day when I would enjoy a cookie or two - and not have to worry about gaining weight!!!
One final thing tonight -- here is something pretty cute and pretty accurate:
PRESERVED HUSBANDS
Be careful with your selection. Do not choose the young, and take only such varieties as have been reared in good moral atmosphere. When once decided on and selected, let that part remain forever settled and give your entire thought to preparation for domestic use. Some insist on keeping them in a pickle, while others are constantly getting them into hot water. EVEN poor varieties may be made sweet, tender, and good by garnishing with patience, well sweetened with smiles and flavored with kisses. Wrap well in a mantle of charity. Keep warm with a steady fire of domestic devotion and serve with fruits of constrant devotion and milk of human kindness. When thus prepared, they will keep for years.
Amazing - what does this ring of? Maybe teaching of the Bible??
Have a blessed evening and pray God will bless you with someone else to bless with kindness.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
THURSDAY NIGHT - ONE MORE WORK DAY!!
Went to this wonderful new chiropractor today and she was so young and so strong and wonderful. She is Ashley Warren Feldman (I think that is right) and she has an office right next to Style Salon and Spa. Really helped my back that went crazy on Tuesday - where I could not sit, stand, and certainly could not bend over -- but I am better! Tonight I went to our Pilot Club's President's house for her to hand over lots of responsibilities to us for a few weeks. Her husband took sick suddenly and it was discovered he had widespread cancer and in a day or so of the diagnosis, he passed away. It was a hard meeting - especially since I am President-Elect - but I will do the best I can - combined with being Chairman of the Red Cross this year - but I am sure everything will work. The meeting was also sad - because her husband was our treasurer and friend. I guess it just proves - we really don't know what tomorrow holds. God holds us in his hands and only He knows! But I am convinced that He knows best in all situations and will help us day by day if we call upon Him.
Now for cooking: How many of you hate tuna fish? How many of you like tuna fish? I challenge all of you with either situation - try my newly created "Gourmet Tuna Fish Salad" and I really think if you hate it - you will like it and if you like tuna fish - you will love it!
JC'S GOURMET TUNA FISH
2 Small cans Solid White Albacore tuna - packed in water
2 Eggs Boiled, peeled and chopped
2 heaping tablespoons Light Hellmann's mayo
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
1/4 tsp. Penzey's Fresh ground black pepper
Several dashes of Penzey's Fox Point seasoning (a mixture of salt, shallots,chives, garlic, onion, and greenpeppercorns)
1 Big Dash of Penzey's Very Hot Crushed Red Pepper
1 Big Dash of Penzey's Loose leaf Cilanto
1/4 cup chopped Walnuts
Directions: Drain cans of tuna, rinse with cold water, and pat dry with paper towel. Place into a medium size bowl and carefully break up tuna with fork until flaky, add rest of ingredients and mix until well blended. Best to sit a little while to combine flavors. Then put a good heaping (or more) tablespoon on slice of wheat bread, top with fresh spinach (and if you don't like spinach - omit) and top with another slice of bread. Travis said it was very good!!! You can also place on wheat bread, cibbata bread or tortilla. Add slice of fat free cheese and put on hot grill pan or panini pan and top with press and bake until slightly browned. Don't forget to spray both sides of grill pan or grill pan and press. TRY IT - YOU'LL LOVE IT!! Now if you don't have Penzey's spices yet - just substitute something similar or go to Dallas and buy some!!!! Or let me know what you want and I will pick it up for you!!!
I've got an idea - try it -- and then let me know "Yes, I like it" or "NO, NO, NO". You can go on Facebook and reply or post a reply right here!
Changed the picture at the beginning of Blog because Travis said no one knew that was a Chocolate Cream Pie with Mile High Meringue or a Cherry Meringue Pie- so this morning I changed it to A PIECE OF PIE - showcasing the meringue - and the bite Travis took out of it before I could get the picture!!!
I took a Sopapilla Cheesecake (Published on March 7, 2010) to the friend's (that lost her husband) house on Saturday. They are all from Syrucuse, NY and her brother was there. I told him that I had a Sopapilla Cheesecake and he said "never heard of it" and it was still hot and smelled so good. Then Gregg's (the deceased) sister could not even pronounce it. I told them I was giving them a little taste of the Southwest or Southern Hospitality. When I saw them on Sunday they were rolling their eyes heavenly and saying how delicious it was. Her brother said "and it was warm!" Guess they don't eat their desserts warm. I am going to fax the recipe to my friend and she will send it on to her brother! Fun!!
I am addicted - don't get worried - to the tea at Cafe Tazza - and I don't even like tea - but the one in the middle - the Tazza tea is delicious. Not sweet - but has the flavor of ginger, cinnamon, and not sure what else! They will sell me a gallon but not the tea bags or recipe! Going to have to figure that one out - can't keep buying it!!!
We really want to go to Plano Saturday and watch those awesome ETCA girls play basketball. My car is sounding very strange- just started - thank the good Lord it is still under warranty - so I don't know if we will risk driving it or get Lexus to come get it!! Have you ever thought about all the Lord really provides us?? I often forget and think I paid for this or that - and truthfully He paid for everything - with His Son!!
Have a wonderful evening. Look forward to a wonderful Friday - one of the day's God created - and do something good for another. My sister did today - precious lady - she called early and asked how she could help me -- so she took Michelle to work and I was 15 minutes early to work!
May God bless each of you!!!
Now for cooking: How many of you hate tuna fish? How many of you like tuna fish? I challenge all of you with either situation - try my newly created "Gourmet Tuna Fish Salad" and I really think if you hate it - you will like it and if you like tuna fish - you will love it!
JC'S GOURMET TUNA FISH
2 Small cans Solid White Albacore tuna - packed in water
2 Eggs Boiled, peeled and chopped
2 heaping tablespoons Light Hellmann's mayo
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
1/4 tsp. Penzey's Fresh ground black pepper
Several dashes of Penzey's Fox Point seasoning (a mixture of salt, shallots,chives, garlic, onion, and greenpeppercorns)
1 Big Dash of Penzey's Very Hot Crushed Red Pepper
1 Big Dash of Penzey's Loose leaf Cilanto
1/4 cup chopped Walnuts
Directions: Drain cans of tuna, rinse with cold water, and pat dry with paper towel. Place into a medium size bowl and carefully break up tuna with fork until flaky, add rest of ingredients and mix until well blended. Best to sit a little while to combine flavors. Then put a good heaping (or more) tablespoon on slice of wheat bread, top with fresh spinach (and if you don't like spinach - omit) and top with another slice of bread. Travis said it was very good!!! You can also place on wheat bread, cibbata bread or tortilla. Add slice of fat free cheese and put on hot grill pan or panini pan and top with press and bake until slightly browned. Don't forget to spray both sides of grill pan or grill pan and press. TRY IT - YOU'LL LOVE IT!! Now if you don't have Penzey's spices yet - just substitute something similar or go to Dallas and buy some!!!! Or let me know what you want and I will pick it up for you!!!
I've got an idea - try it -- and then let me know "Yes, I like it" or "NO, NO, NO". You can go on Facebook and reply or post a reply right here!
Changed the picture at the beginning of Blog because Travis said no one knew that was a Chocolate Cream Pie with Mile High Meringue or a Cherry Meringue Pie- so this morning I changed it to A PIECE OF PIE - showcasing the meringue - and the bite Travis took out of it before I could get the picture!!!
I took a Sopapilla Cheesecake (Published on March 7, 2010) to the friend's (that lost her husband) house on Saturday. They are all from Syrucuse, NY and her brother was there. I told him that I had a Sopapilla Cheesecake and he said "never heard of it" and it was still hot and smelled so good. Then Gregg's (the deceased) sister could not even pronounce it. I told them I was giving them a little taste of the Southwest or Southern Hospitality. When I saw them on Sunday they were rolling their eyes heavenly and saying how delicious it was. Her brother said "and it was warm!" Guess they don't eat their desserts warm. I am going to fax the recipe to my friend and she will send it on to her brother! Fun!!
I am addicted - don't get worried - to the tea at Cafe Tazza - and I don't even like tea - but the one in the middle - the Tazza tea is delicious. Not sweet - but has the flavor of ginger, cinnamon, and not sure what else! They will sell me a gallon but not the tea bags or recipe! Going to have to figure that one out - can't keep buying it!!!
We really want to go to Plano Saturday and watch those awesome ETCA girls play basketball. My car is sounding very strange- just started - thank the good Lord it is still under warranty - so I don't know if we will risk driving it or get Lexus to come get it!! Have you ever thought about all the Lord really provides us?? I often forget and think I paid for this or that - and truthfully He paid for everything - with His Son!!
Have a wonderful evening. Look forward to a wonderful Friday - one of the day's God created - and do something good for another. My sister did today - precious lady - she called early and asked how she could help me -- so she took Michelle to work and I was 15 minutes early to work!
May God bless each of you!!!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Kneading Bread Dough
This should be a great visual aid to kneading bread - which is a little different than what I have said in the following blog.
Learn and enjoy the joy of homemade bread!
A NIGHT OF ENLIGHTMENT AND LEARNING
Good evening or morning - whichever time it is when you read this! What a day - it is so hard to be where there is so much tension - but good things do happen. The good thing was our Bible class tonight. It is a study of James and if you recall, James starts out telling us "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many times, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:2-4) Coincidentally Mark's blog today "Winnie Cooper has a Theorem" was about Danica McKeller, a young TV star of the 80's TV show "The Wonder Years". After that stint she went to UCLA and she discovered her love of math. She eventually, after accomplishing many other goals, has written several books to encourage young people in their pursuit of mathematical knowledge. I was already convicted by the lesson in James that I need more perseverance in pursuing my goals. I have persevered in obligations - such as family, work, etc., but I've given up on other things that seemed too hard or too outrageous - even though some of then would have completed me. I've always had a love of literature and writing, but never worked hard enough to be published. Yes, I do have a couple of recipes published - but I want a book of recipes and ideas published and I want to write a children's book -- guess I'd better work harder at that - or I will be older than that 91 year old who was having her first book published!!! Thanks James, brother of Jesus, Diane and Mark! I needed that! Speaking of recipes - I don't think I have ever given you the recipe for Hawaiian Bread -- you know that sweet, delicious and very expensive bread and rolls you can purchase at your local grocery store! Well - for lots less money, and very little time, you can make it - and gather the compliments for yourself.
HAWAIIAN BREAD 1 package yellow cake mix (no pudding in the mix) 2 packages Active Dry yeast (I would not recommend the "rapid rise") 1/2 tsp. salt 2-1/2 cups warm water 1 tsp. vanilla 5 cups flour 4 tablespoons melted butter Combine the cake mix and yeast. Next, combine salt, vanilla, and water. Add cake mixture to water and salt mixture. Add flour last. Mix well and knead lightly. Let rise 1 hour. Knead lightly again, pat out and cut for rolls. Let rise until double. Bake at 375 degrees. When brown, brush with melted butter and bake a little longer. Makes 24 rolls. You can also make one large round loaf by putting in a bundt pan or in 2 loaf pans. NOTE: To test for doneness - thump top and if it sounds hollow - it is done!
ALSO: "KNEADING" seems to scare people off from trying bread recipes. Just place the dough on a floured pastry sheet, dust with flour and take hand and make a loose fist. With knuckles and ball of your hand (the fat part under your thumb)press and pull the dough gently turning the dough. You will begin to feel it change under the pressure. (I have posted a second blog that shows a video on how to knead bread - it will really help you grab hold of the concept and become better faster!!!Hope this helps - it just takes practice to perfect. Now Enjoy the bread!!! Now who loves cooking in Crock Pots? Crock Pot Cooking is an easy way to put a meal on the table soon after you come home - or family comes home. It does take some planning (which I most often forget to do), but it can be something families look forward to - not dread! Here is a great Crock Pot Green Enchilada recipe.
CROCK POT GREEN ENCHILADAS 1 or 2 lbs. ground beef (be sure and use low fat like 93-7 or 96-4) 2 small cans diced green chiles 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 1 large package corn tortillas 1 large onion, chopped 1 lb. cheddar cheese, grated. Brown ground beat. Mix together diced green chiles and cream of mushroom soup. Layer crock pot on bottom and sides with corn tortillas. Next layer meat, sauce, onion, and cheese. Relayer until crock pot is full. Cook at least 3 hours on low heat. (NOW THAT IS THE ORIGINAL RECIPE - BUT I SUGGEST THIS: Be sure and add 2-3 cloves garlic, minced, to meat just before finish browning - add salt and pepper (be sure and use Pensey's Fresh Ground Black Pepper - it is the best!!) to taste. In place of mushroom soup - replace with 2 cans Hatch Green Enchilada sauce. For extra heat - add 1 minced jalapeno. In place of Cheddar cheese, use Mexican Cheese! Serve with LIGHT sour cream. GUARANTEED BETTER!)This would also be good made with shredded chicken!!
bWell - it is going to be 11:00 before long, Michelle is leaned over on the table - asleep I suppose - so I guess I had better finish and wish you all a good night. Please find someone that needs a friend, needs a hug, needs a good deed - and DO!!! God Bless all of you!
HAWAIIAN BREAD 1 package yellow cake mix (no pudding in the mix) 2 packages Active Dry yeast (I would not recommend the "rapid rise") 1/2 tsp. salt 2-1/2 cups warm water 1 tsp. vanilla 5 cups flour 4 tablespoons melted butter Combine the cake mix and yeast. Next, combine salt, vanilla, and water. Add cake mixture to water and salt mixture. Add flour last. Mix well and knead lightly. Let rise 1 hour. Knead lightly again, pat out and cut for rolls. Let rise until double. Bake at 375 degrees. When brown, brush with melted butter and bake a little longer. Makes 24 rolls. You can also make one large round loaf by putting in a bundt pan or in 2 loaf pans. NOTE: To test for doneness - thump top and if it sounds hollow - it is done!
ALSO: "KNEADING" seems to scare people off from trying bread recipes. Just place the dough on a floured pastry sheet, dust with flour and take hand and make a loose fist. With knuckles and ball of your hand (the fat part under your thumb)press and pull the dough gently turning the dough. You will begin to feel it change under the pressure. (I have posted a second blog that shows a video on how to knead bread - it will really help you grab hold of the concept and become better faster!!!Hope this helps - it just takes practice to perfect. Now Enjoy the bread!!! Now who loves cooking in Crock Pots? Crock Pot Cooking is an easy way to put a meal on the table soon after you come home - or family comes home. It does take some planning (which I most often forget to do), but it can be something families look forward to - not dread! Here is a great Crock Pot Green Enchilada recipe.
CROCK POT GREEN ENCHILADAS 1 or 2 lbs. ground beef (be sure and use low fat like 93-7 or 96-4) 2 small cans diced green chiles 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 1 large package corn tortillas 1 large onion, chopped 1 lb. cheddar cheese, grated. Brown ground beat. Mix together diced green chiles and cream of mushroom soup. Layer crock pot on bottom and sides with corn tortillas. Next layer meat, sauce, onion, and cheese. Relayer until crock pot is full. Cook at least 3 hours on low heat. (NOW THAT IS THE ORIGINAL RECIPE - BUT I SUGGEST THIS: Be sure and add 2-3 cloves garlic, minced, to meat just before finish browning - add salt and pepper (be sure and use Pensey's Fresh Ground Black Pepper - it is the best!!) to taste. In place of mushroom soup - replace with 2 cans Hatch Green Enchilada sauce. For extra heat - add 1 minced jalapeno. In place of Cheddar cheese, use Mexican Cheese! Serve with LIGHT sour cream. GUARANTEED BETTER!)This would also be good made with shredded chicken!!
bWell - it is going to be 11:00 before long, Michelle is leaned over on the table - asleep I suppose - so I guess I had better finish and wish you all a good night. Please find someone that needs a friend, needs a hug, needs a good deed - and DO!!! God Bless all of you!
Monday, February 21, 2011
PRESIDENT'S DAY - SO NICE TO SPEND IT WITH FAMILY
Tell me something - just leave a comment or email me! How can one man feel all the same emotions for four women and "feel like I could be a part of this family!" for each one?? The Bachelor was on and Travis and I got tickled at that Brad guy and his very same emotions about four different women. I know they are suppose to keep their feelings a secret -- but really - couldn't he come up with something a little more original! I guessed it - I believe the only sincere thing on the entire show was his discomfort with the funeral home experience - and I definitely could relate. And - yes - he let her go! so dumb - so why did I watch? I was cooking and there was not much else to do! Speaking of cooking:
I cooked a very good (according to Travis) dinner tonight and it was HEALTHY! I need to do more of those - we all do! So here is one for you!
THE MENU
Pan Grilled Catfish
Mango Salsa
Cold Slaw with Jalapeno Ranch dressing
Baked Sweet potato fries
Hominy with Fresh Ground Black Pepper
Baked Jalapeno Hushpuppies
PAN GRILLED CATFISH
Fresh Catfish fillets (I did three - you do however many you need)
1/2 lime, squeezed
2 Tablespoons Olive oil (I used a great one from Texas Olive Ranch called Rattlesnake Olive Oil -- has some red pepper flakes in it)
Black pepper
Lemon pepper (I used Penzey's and it is wonderful)
Garlic sprinkle (whatever you have that has garlic as the predominant ingredient - I used Penzey's "Salad Sprinkle.")
Rub each side with olive oil and then squeeze lime on each each one. Sprinkle liberally with Lemon Pepper, Black pepper, and garlic.
Get Grilling pan and press very hot, spray each one with cooking spray, place fish in pan and top with press. Cook about 4 to 5 minutes and turn the fish over. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes until fish is flaky. Remove to plate.
Before serving - top with Mango Salsa.
I know I make a good Mango Salsa - more for dipping chips into - so I bought a small container at Brookshires and added only about 1/4 tsp. finely chopped jalapeno to it.
COLD SLAW WITH JALAPENO RANCH DRESSING
FOR THREE:
2 Cups 3 Color Deli Cold Slaw (from bag at Brookshires) Contains - green cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage)
1/4 cup Light Ranch dressing
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 Tablespoons chopped jalapenos (divided use)
2 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Combine slaw mix, onion and 1 tablespoon minced jalapeno. Then combine Ranch dressing, other tablespoon jalapeno, lime juice, and salt and pepper.Stir well. Sprinkle a little more pepper on slaw mix and then pour dressing over slaw and toss.
Now for the hardest of all:
Hominy with Fresh Ground Black pepper
1 Can (for family of 3) Yellow Hominy
Several sprinkles of black pepper (I love Penzey's Fresh Ground)
Bring to a boil in small saucepan - turn down to low and allow to cook for several minutes - careful to not let cook dry. Wow! NOW IF YOUR FAMILY DOES NOT LIKE HOMINY -- GIVE THEM A DIFFERENT VARIETY OF CORN - EITHER A CAN OF WHOLE KERNEL CORN OR BOILED CORN ON THE COB!!!)
Oh - and I found some very good hushpuppies -- they are Savannah Classics -- and they have about three varieties and if you know me at all - you would know I would choose the Jalapeno ones -- but they also had "Sweet Corn" Hushpuppies that really sounded good too. Now as much as I love to make food "From Scratch" - I am not so dumb that I can't recognize some things that are as good or even better than I could make at home. Hushpuppies are one of them. And they were to be baked - another plus! Also - again - when you find something already prepared that wears you out - like peeling and trying to properly slice sweet potatoes - I will choose the frozen ones for fries every time. I've already told you how to do them. DRIZZLE - SEASON - AND BAKE!!
All in all - it was a good healthy meal! Just sorry I didn't get time to make the Cheddar-Jalapeno Bread - but another day - another opportunity.
This morning I had a surprise - but a nice one! My cousin, Robert (on my Mother's side) called me. He sends me lots of great things I share with you! He was on his way to Shreveport to preside at a funeral of another cousin's father-in-law. Life has always consumed both of us and we had never stayed in touch - but at a birthday party for his sister we met again, and it has been very rewarding to get to know him better and hear about his family and life. Thanks for the call, Bob!
Today my sister, Michelle, and Maura found a really neat shop between Gresham and Flint. It is "Peek A Boutique!" I had seen it many times but never stopped, but today we did. It is an amazing little shop with really popular things, like "Miss Me" jeans" and fabulous jewelry created by the owner, Karen Davis. Believe it or not - I tried on a braclet that has been created for Miranda Lambert. I won't reveal what it looked like - but just say - it and it's matching necklace was so fabulous - actually over the top!!! If you've not been there you can check it out at www.peekaboutiquekaren.com.
Tomorrow night I want to tell you about a great series of 3 tapes that can change your life if you will allow it to. No - I am not selling -- just sharing something I watched a few weeks ago in a ladies Wednesday night class and was so taken by it that I ordered my own copy!
Have a great evening -- hope you had a great and useful day. God Bless each of you!
I cooked a very good (according to Travis) dinner tonight and it was HEALTHY! I need to do more of those - we all do! So here is one for you!
THE MENU
Pan Grilled Catfish
Mango Salsa
Cold Slaw with Jalapeno Ranch dressing
Baked Sweet potato fries
Hominy with Fresh Ground Black Pepper
Baked Jalapeno Hushpuppies
PAN GRILLED CATFISH
Fresh Catfish fillets (I did three - you do however many you need)
1/2 lime, squeezed
2 Tablespoons Olive oil (I used a great one from Texas Olive Ranch called Rattlesnake Olive Oil -- has some red pepper flakes in it)
Black pepper
Lemon pepper (I used Penzey's and it is wonderful)
Garlic sprinkle (whatever you have that has garlic as the predominant ingredient - I used Penzey's "Salad Sprinkle.")
Rub each side with olive oil and then squeeze lime on each each one. Sprinkle liberally with Lemon Pepper, Black pepper, and garlic.
Get Grilling pan and press very hot, spray each one with cooking spray, place fish in pan and top with press. Cook about 4 to 5 minutes and turn the fish over. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes until fish is flaky. Remove to plate.
Before serving - top with Mango Salsa.
I know I make a good Mango Salsa - more for dipping chips into - so I bought a small container at Brookshires and added only about 1/4 tsp. finely chopped jalapeno to it.
COLD SLAW WITH JALAPENO RANCH DRESSING
FOR THREE:
2 Cups 3 Color Deli Cold Slaw (from bag at Brookshires) Contains - green cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage)
1/4 cup Light Ranch dressing
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 Tablespoons chopped jalapenos (divided use)
2 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Combine slaw mix, onion and 1 tablespoon minced jalapeno. Then combine Ranch dressing, other tablespoon jalapeno, lime juice, and salt and pepper.Stir well. Sprinkle a little more pepper on slaw mix and then pour dressing over slaw and toss.
Now for the hardest of all:
Hominy with Fresh Ground Black pepper
1 Can (for family of 3) Yellow Hominy
Several sprinkles of black pepper (I love Penzey's Fresh Ground)
Bring to a boil in small saucepan - turn down to low and allow to cook for several minutes - careful to not let cook dry. Wow! NOW IF YOUR FAMILY DOES NOT LIKE HOMINY -- GIVE THEM A DIFFERENT VARIETY OF CORN - EITHER A CAN OF WHOLE KERNEL CORN OR BOILED CORN ON THE COB!!!)
Oh - and I found some very good hushpuppies -- they are Savannah Classics -- and they have about three varieties and if you know me at all - you would know I would choose the Jalapeno ones -- but they also had "Sweet Corn" Hushpuppies that really sounded good too. Now as much as I love to make food "From Scratch" - I am not so dumb that I can't recognize some things that are as good or even better than I could make at home. Hushpuppies are one of them. And they were to be baked - another plus! Also - again - when you find something already prepared that wears you out - like peeling and trying to properly slice sweet potatoes - I will choose the frozen ones for fries every time. I've already told you how to do them. DRIZZLE - SEASON - AND BAKE!!
All in all - it was a good healthy meal! Just sorry I didn't get time to make the Cheddar-Jalapeno Bread - but another day - another opportunity.
This morning I had a surprise - but a nice one! My cousin, Robert (on my Mother's side) called me. He sends me lots of great things I share with you! He was on his way to Shreveport to preside at a funeral of another cousin's father-in-law. Life has always consumed both of us and we had never stayed in touch - but at a birthday party for his sister we met again, and it has been very rewarding to get to know him better and hear about his family and life. Thanks for the call, Bob!
Today my sister, Michelle, and Maura found a really neat shop between Gresham and Flint. It is "Peek A Boutique!" I had seen it many times but never stopped, but today we did. It is an amazing little shop with really popular things, like "Miss Me" jeans" and fabulous jewelry created by the owner, Karen Davis. Believe it or not - I tried on a braclet that has been created for Miranda Lambert. I won't reveal what it looked like - but just say - it and it's matching necklace was so fabulous - actually over the top!!! If you've not been there you can check it out at www.peekaboutiquekaren.com.
Tomorrow night I want to tell you about a great series of 3 tapes that can change your life if you will allow it to. No - I am not selling -- just sharing something I watched a few weeks ago in a ladies Wednesday night class and was so taken by it that I ordered my own copy!
Have a great evening -- hope you had a great and useful day. God Bless each of you!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
A HOLIDAY TOMORROW - LOTS TO DO!!
Good Sunday evening! The last time I posted a blog - I said I was about to pass out from being so sleepy and I didn't mean to"check out" for days -- but the medicine I am taking makes me really sleepy -- but I think my body is gradually getting use to it and I'm much more awake! Church was good today - Worshiping God - our great songleader was out - but Chris Green did a great job both morning and evening services! It was good to see our friends - so many wonderful people, and hearing a great sermon - well except for the reference to "you ol' folks that remember the Beetles!' Just giving Mark a hard time!!! What an era - Elvis, The Beetles, and many more unforgetable singers! Lunch was fun with Maura. It is really seldom that she is not fun and sweet and precious!
I did attend visitation of a good friend's husband - who seemed perfectly fine four weeks ago. It is so sad - they were like a few other couples I know or have known in the past - you don't see one without the other -- they were an extention of one another. I've often been jealous of that -- but now I see how hard it makes death! I think that no matter how bad it hurt - either Travis or me would know how to survive! That makes me really think about our mortality and only God knows when that will be. It makes me want to be a better person and begin to do all the things I dream of doing! Like making a loaf of Jalapeno-Cheddar Loaf. Sounds yummy - and am going to try to make it tomorrow! No - seriously - I do have dreams (maybe bucket list) but I plan to try harder to fulfil some of them! How about you???
JALAPENO-CHEDDAR LOAF
Cook time: 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
3/4 Cup warm water
1 package active dry yeast
1 tsp. salt
1-1/2 tsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. vegetabble shortening (I may use butter, softened since I don't use Crisco anymore!)
1/2 cup milk
3 Cups all purpose flour, approximately
1/2 cup pickled Jalapenos, drained and chopped
4 oz. (about 1 cup) cheddar cheese, small cubes
PREPARATION:
In a large bowl, add the warm water and slowly stir in yeast until dissolved. Add salt, sugar, shortening, and milk to bowl and stir. Mix in the first 2 cups of flower. If needed, begin adding more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough chases the spoon around the bowl. You do not need to use up all the floor called for in this recipe, or you may need more flour than called for. Turn the dough out onto floured board and knead, adding small spoonfuls of flour as needed, until the tough is soft and smooth, not sticky to the touch. Put dough in buttered bowl, turn dough over so that the top of dough is greased. Cover and let rise in warm spot for 1 hour. Preheat over to 375 F. Punch down dough. Turn out onto floured board and roll dough until 1 to 1-1/2 inches thick. Add cheese and jalapenos and roll dough into a log and set in loaf pan. Cover and let rise for aabout 30 minutes. Score dough by cutting three slashes across the top with a sharp knife. Put in over and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown. Turn out bread and let cool on a rack or cleaned dishtowel.
Well Cornbread Salad sure stirred alot of interest and some of you might like to try it -- so here is the recipe! Just make sure you make plenty of the dressing!!
CORNBREAD SALAD
2 Boxes Jiffy Cornbread Mix
1 Small can chopped green chiles
2 ears Fresh corn, boiled until tender and sliced off of cobs
1 Small bunch fresh broccoli, chopped into small bites
½ Green bell pepper (chopped)
½ Red bell pepper (chopped)
½ Yellow bell pepper (chopped)
½ Red Onion, (chopped)
2 Cloves Garlic, pressed or minced
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 Cup Light Ranch Dressing
1 Small Carton Light Sour Cream
2 Tablespoons Light Mayo
1-1/2 Cups Shredded Cheese (either Cheddar or 4 Mexican Cheeses)
½ Teaspoon Cayenne pepper (divided)
Mix Corn bread mix as directed on box, or I add 1 tsp. baking soda and use buttermilk in the place of regular milk and add about ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper). Add the small can of Green Chiles and bake until done. When you take out of oven – Cut through the cornbread with a knife to let it dry out some and cool. Combine all of the veggies and add a little salt and pepper to them. When the cornbread has cooled, take and break it into bite size pieces or cut into ½ inch blocks. Add the veggies to the cornbread and top with all of the cheese except for about ¼ cup. Combine the Ranch Dressing, Sour Cream and Mayo, and ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper. Cover the cheese with the dressing and dress it up with the reserved ¼ cup cheese. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to chill for several hours or overnight. Toss well just before serving. This will make about 10 to 12 servings -- not the 80 to 90 servings we made for church's Wednesday meal on Tuesday night before the snow came! It can sit in refrigeration 2 to 4 days and still be good!
I imagine if I go into the living room Travis will be sound asleep - after we ate today - he groomed 3 of the dogs - our Beemer and Lexie - and my sister's Sadie. He still has Liesel and Harley to go -- probably the two hardest Schnauzers of all. But they look so wonderful! He really has a talent -- another one of many.
I took a big part of Saturday afternoon and spent it with Mom. I first took her through the Excel Car Wash - or as Maura and I have dubbed it "Star Wars!" It is absolutely the best in town - the one on South Broadway by Capital Bank - you ride through! Then I took her out to see ETCA campus and from there we picked up a wrap at McDonalds, then went shopping. Came back with a great skirt and another skirt and sweater for her. I really enjoyed our little trip and she was grateful to get out of the apartment and into the sunshine. She enjoyed seeing all of the building that was going on too! My sister takes her places all of the time - but we just found different routes! I want to do that more!!!
So - I am going to sign off - with a reminder -- it is not too late to do something good for someone that needs a good deed or just a friend! Many of us have tomorrow off - a perfect time to make someone's day! Take care and may God bless each of you! Thanks for reading!!
I did attend visitation of a good friend's husband - who seemed perfectly fine four weeks ago. It is so sad - they were like a few other couples I know or have known in the past - you don't see one without the other -- they were an extention of one another. I've often been jealous of that -- but now I see how hard it makes death! I think that no matter how bad it hurt - either Travis or me would know how to survive! That makes me really think about our mortality and only God knows when that will be. It makes me want to be a better person and begin to do all the things I dream of doing! Like making a loaf of Jalapeno-Cheddar Loaf. Sounds yummy - and am going to try to make it tomorrow! No - seriously - I do have dreams (maybe bucket list) but I plan to try harder to fulfil some of them! How about you???
JALAPENO-CHEDDAR LOAF
Cook time: 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
3/4 Cup warm water
1 package active dry yeast
1 tsp. salt
1-1/2 tsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. vegetabble shortening (I may use butter, softened since I don't use Crisco anymore!)
1/2 cup milk
3 Cups all purpose flour, approximately
1/2 cup pickled Jalapenos, drained and chopped
4 oz. (about 1 cup) cheddar cheese, small cubes
PREPARATION:
In a large bowl, add the warm water and slowly stir in yeast until dissolved. Add salt, sugar, shortening, and milk to bowl and stir. Mix in the first 2 cups of flower. If needed, begin adding more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough chases the spoon around the bowl. You do not need to use up all the floor called for in this recipe, or you may need more flour than called for. Turn the dough out onto floured board and knead, adding small spoonfuls of flour as needed, until the tough is soft and smooth, not sticky to the touch. Put dough in buttered bowl, turn dough over so that the top of dough is greased. Cover and let rise in warm spot for 1 hour. Preheat over to 375 F. Punch down dough. Turn out onto floured board and roll dough until 1 to 1-1/2 inches thick. Add cheese and jalapenos and roll dough into a log and set in loaf pan. Cover and let rise for aabout 30 minutes. Score dough by cutting three slashes across the top with a sharp knife. Put in over and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown. Turn out bread and let cool on a rack or cleaned dishtowel.
Well Cornbread Salad sure stirred alot of interest and some of you might like to try it -- so here is the recipe! Just make sure you make plenty of the dressing!!
CORNBREAD SALAD
2 Boxes Jiffy Cornbread Mix
1 Small can chopped green chiles
2 ears Fresh corn, boiled until tender and sliced off of cobs
1 Small bunch fresh broccoli, chopped into small bites
½ Green bell pepper (chopped)
½ Red bell pepper (chopped)
½ Yellow bell pepper (chopped)
½ Red Onion, (chopped)
2 Cloves Garlic, pressed or minced
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 Cup Light Ranch Dressing
1 Small Carton Light Sour Cream
2 Tablespoons Light Mayo
1-1/2 Cups Shredded Cheese (either Cheddar or 4 Mexican Cheeses)
½ Teaspoon Cayenne pepper (divided)
Mix Corn bread mix as directed on box, or I add 1 tsp. baking soda and use buttermilk in the place of regular milk and add about ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper). Add the small can of Green Chiles and bake until done. When you take out of oven – Cut through the cornbread with a knife to let it dry out some and cool. Combine all of the veggies and add a little salt and pepper to them. When the cornbread has cooled, take and break it into bite size pieces or cut into ½ inch blocks. Add the veggies to the cornbread and top with all of the cheese except for about ¼ cup. Combine the Ranch Dressing, Sour Cream and Mayo, and ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper. Cover the cheese with the dressing and dress it up with the reserved ¼ cup cheese. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to chill for several hours or overnight. Toss well just before serving. This will make about 10 to 12 servings -- not the 80 to 90 servings we made for church's Wednesday meal on Tuesday night before the snow came! It can sit in refrigeration 2 to 4 days and still be good!
I imagine if I go into the living room Travis will be sound asleep - after we ate today - he groomed 3 of the dogs - our Beemer and Lexie - and my sister's Sadie. He still has Liesel and Harley to go -- probably the two hardest Schnauzers of all. But they look so wonderful! He really has a talent -- another one of many.
I took a big part of Saturday afternoon and spent it with Mom. I first took her through the Excel Car Wash - or as Maura and I have dubbed it "Star Wars!" It is absolutely the best in town - the one on South Broadway by Capital Bank - you ride through! Then I took her out to see ETCA campus and from there we picked up a wrap at McDonalds, then went shopping. Came back with a great skirt and another skirt and sweater for her. I really enjoyed our little trip and she was grateful to get out of the apartment and into the sunshine. She enjoyed seeing all of the building that was going on too! My sister takes her places all of the time - but we just found different routes! I want to do that more!!!
So - I am going to sign off - with a reminder -- it is not too late to do something good for someone that needs a good deed or just a friend! Many of us have tomorrow off - a perfect time to make someone's day! Take care and may God bless each of you! Thanks for reading!!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
NIGHT OF REFLECTION
Good evening! IF this has a lot of spaces and zzzzzzzzzzz's across it - the reason will be because I dropped off to sleep. I am having to take medicine for Shingles - ugly word for an even uglier problem -- thankfully mine is on my hip -- but it is the most painful thing I've ever had -- like a deep burning forest fire deep in my hip. The whole back hurts!! Driving home this afternoon and when I stopped at red lights I had to fight sleep and again - even though Dianne's lecture was wonderful - my head kept nodding forward!
I was thinking about all of the things that I always did - just like Mother - and sometimes it took sooooo long! Like when she taught me to peel an apple -- you had to go round and round and round and round the apple - not only trying to not break the peel but also not get much of the appple. Then there was the story about the woman that had seen her grandmother and mother cut off the end off the roast before putting it in the pot. She thought it was soome kind of magic recipe - but finally she asked the question that no one had ever asked: "Grandma - why do you cut the end of the roast off?" Grandma replied: "Well Honey - it didn't fit my pot!" Oh yes - growing up - we starched and ironed the pillow cases, ironed dad's underwear and other things that have never seen my iron!! About the apples - I cut them in half and sometimes in quarters. Easy to core and much easier and faster to peel. You know if you are peeling an apple - you are either going to slice it or chop it. THE ONLY EXCEPTION IS PEELING APPLES FOR APPLE DUMPLINGS! There are lots more - and I will tell you more -- but right now - it is time to cook! Mentioning Apple Dumplings -- my Mom made the best and here is how she did it:
APPLE DUMPINGS
4 large Red Apples 1 Recipe of Pastry OR 1 box of already rolled crust - cut in 4 squares 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 2 or 3 drops red cake coloring - carefully or it will be all over you!!\ FILLING: 1/4 cup sugar 1/4th tsp. vanilla Extra: 1/4 cup butter, softened Directions: Either make your favorite rolled out pie crust - cut into four large squares Peel and core apples (leaving whole) Mix filling together. Take the squares of crust - carefully sit one apple on each square. Fill the core of each apple with filling. . Add a bit of softened butter to the top of each filling and then bring the crust up around the apple - carefully covering all of the apple and sealing at the top. HEAT the sugar, water, cinnamon and red coloring until sugar is melted. Then pour melted sugar, water mixture over the apples. Bake in the 350 degree oven for 30 to 50 minutes -- until browned, and when fork is inserted - apple is tender. Serve hot with ice cream! You can make smaller ones by cutting apples in half -- but you only get half the delicious dessert!!! Maybe it is not the healty recipe -- but remember "An apple a day keeps the doctor away!" Know what - I am quickly fading - so have a blessed night. I would love feedback!! Please let me know what you want!!
Have a blessed evening so your day will be insured a blessing!!
I was thinking about all of the things that I always did - just like Mother - and sometimes it took sooooo long! Like when she taught me to peel an apple -- you had to go round and round and round and round the apple - not only trying to not break the peel but also not get much of the appple. Then there was the story about the woman that had seen her grandmother and mother cut off the end off the roast before putting it in the pot. She thought it was soome kind of magic recipe - but finally she asked the question that no one had ever asked: "Grandma - why do you cut the end of the roast off?" Grandma replied: "Well Honey - it didn't fit my pot!" Oh yes - growing up - we starched and ironed the pillow cases, ironed dad's underwear and other things that have never seen my iron!! About the apples - I cut them in half and sometimes in quarters. Easy to core and much easier and faster to peel. You know if you are peeling an apple - you are either going to slice it or chop it. THE ONLY EXCEPTION IS PEELING APPLES FOR APPLE DUMPLINGS! There are lots more - and I will tell you more -- but right now - it is time to cook! Mentioning Apple Dumplings -- my Mom made the best and here is how she did it:
APPLE DUMPINGS
4 large Red Apples 1 Recipe of Pastry OR 1 box of already rolled crust - cut in 4 squares 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 2 or 3 drops red cake coloring - carefully or it will be all over you!!\ FILLING: 1/4 cup sugar 1/4th tsp. vanilla Extra: 1/4 cup butter, softened Directions: Either make your favorite rolled out pie crust - cut into four large squares Peel and core apples (leaving whole) Mix filling together. Take the squares of crust - carefully sit one apple on each square. Fill the core of each apple with filling. . Add a bit of softened butter to the top of each filling and then bring the crust up around the apple - carefully covering all of the apple and sealing at the top. HEAT the sugar, water, cinnamon and red coloring until sugar is melted. Then pour melted sugar, water mixture over the apples. Bake in the 350 degree oven for 30 to 50 minutes -- until browned, and when fork is inserted - apple is tender. Serve hot with ice cream! You can make smaller ones by cutting apples in half -- but you only get half the delicious dessert!!! Maybe it is not the healty recipe -- but remember "An apple a day keeps the doctor away!" Know what - I am quickly fading - so have a blessed night. I would love feedback!! Please let me know what you want!!
Have a blessed evening so your day will be insured a blessing!!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
THE MAGIC IS OVER - IT WAS BACK TO WORK!
I hope your Valentine's Day was as special as you expected or even better. I decited that it was my time to make it special for someone besides myself - so I cooked one of the meals I had suggested last night - but I substituted grilled asparagus for the salad. IT was absolutely delicious - candlelight and all!!
I took a vacation day yesterday - to finish celebrating living this long - and to enjoy Valentine's day. IT was a great day. My sister and I slipped off early to Canton and had a great time. They had what I was looking for without being 1st Monday. We stopped at a little bistro and they made us a wonderful sandwich - when they don't even serve lunch on Mondays! Will I go back - you bet!!
Today the friends at work had a birthday breakfast for the February birthday's. It was a feast -- so many good dishes by so many sweet people. THANK YOU!!! That was a grand finale to a great birthday!
Travis is attending a "required' retreat this week for his work. I am so grateful and thankful that they are going to Sky Ranch and not far away. He is going to be able to come home and at least help in the mornings. With my shingles - it is hard to handle our 3 little wild dogs!!
I have a recipe I really want you to try - everyone says it is so good!
ROSE MATINEZ' WORLD FAMOUS CHILI SALSA
1 Can Rote Tomatoes
1/2 onion
2/3 whole Jalapeno, chopped
1/2 Cup Cilantro, washed and chopped
1/2 tsp. garlic powder - (I would definitely use fresh garlic, minced)
1/2 tsp. salt
Put in blender 1/2 tp 1 minute, but if you like chunky - do for a couple of junks.
NOTE: You can use Serrano Pepper instead of 2 - 3 Tblesoon Jalapenos. JUST ENJOY!!
Sorry - the Westminister Dog Show is on and I just can't keep my eyes of it. Wish we all were as precious and as good as all of the little dogs in the world. They are so loving, forgiving, accepting, and there are not even enough adjectives to describe them! Who else greets you when you come home the same after a couple of hours as a couple of days! Not sure about "couple of weeks!}
Last night I made the Chocolate Cake I had written about a couple of nights ago. I made Travis a special Rampkin filled cake - topped with icing and served with sliced strawbery on the side. In Travis' cake, I put a couple of pieces of candy we had just received. He said it was really good -- SO - when you are cooking something boring, or ordinary - add something special!
Have a great night -- I promise more recipes - tried and true -- like the delicious chicken sandwich Michelle and I had tonight -- I love my grill pan!! She even has more for lunch. I only ate 2 quarters - so filling and so delicious. Also the sweet potato baked fries were great too.
Have a blessed evening -- and don't forget -- there are so many out there (even in our churches- but not only there - check the shelters), much less our grandparents, our elderly parents ) that need us -- for food, love, understanding and just listening. They have so much to tell and if you don't listen - you will miss a great part of your history - your heritage - and your loved ones. Each of us need to fill ourselves with those stories. THINK ABOUT IT!!!
Here is something else to think about!
Two Thieves in the Palace
John 14:27 ”Let not you heart be trouble; neither let it be afraid.”
There are two thieves waiting to ransack your live. These servants of satin came from the pits of hell to destroy you. They will seize every opportunity they find, and once given access into the unspecting soul they will trash the palace with disregard to the value of its priceless treasures. Their names are Hurry and Worry.
“Let not your heart be trouble,” Jesus said. The word He used means to be agitated like boiling water. In other words, don’t be over heated and in a hurry. Jesus went on to say, “Don’t be afraid.” The word here means cowardly and unbelieving. Hurry will trouble your heart, and worry will make it afraid. And both will ruin your life.
What a bizarre pair they make—inseparably linked in mental tension and continually at war with each other. Hurry always runs ahead, while worry lags behind. Hurry is reckless; Worry is cautious. Hurry sees only those things that speed him on his way, while Worry sees only those things that are in the way and are sure to cause a problem.
Hurry never sees the thousands of little things that make life truly worth living. Worry sees nothing but a thousand little things, none of which have anything to do with life at all. Hurry never thinks about the consequences of hasty choices, and Worry never makes a choice at all-for it might be the wrong one.
These two thieves are forever pulling in opposite directions. God pity the man or woman whose life is filled with Hurry and Worry. Oh hear the words of Jesus as He speak straight to you-“Let not your heart be troubled; neither let it be afraid.”
“May the Lamb that was slain receive the rewards of His suffering.”
Thieves in the Palace
Have a blessed evening!!
I took a vacation day yesterday - to finish celebrating living this long - and to enjoy Valentine's day. IT was a great day. My sister and I slipped off early to Canton and had a great time. They had what I was looking for without being 1st Monday. We stopped at a little bistro and they made us a wonderful sandwich - when they don't even serve lunch on Mondays! Will I go back - you bet!!
Today the friends at work had a birthday breakfast for the February birthday's. It was a feast -- so many good dishes by so many sweet people. THANK YOU!!! That was a grand finale to a great birthday!
Travis is attending a "required' retreat this week for his work. I am so grateful and thankful that they are going to Sky Ranch and not far away. He is going to be able to come home and at least help in the mornings. With my shingles - it is hard to handle our 3 little wild dogs!!
I have a recipe I really want you to try - everyone says it is so good!
ROSE MATINEZ' WORLD FAMOUS CHILI SALSA
1 Can Rote Tomatoes
1/2 onion
2/3 whole Jalapeno, chopped
1/2 Cup Cilantro, washed and chopped
1/2 tsp. garlic powder - (I would definitely use fresh garlic, minced)
1/2 tsp. salt
Put in blender 1/2 tp 1 minute, but if you like chunky - do for a couple of junks.
NOTE: You can use Serrano Pepper instead of 2 - 3 Tblesoon Jalapenos. JUST ENJOY!!
Sorry - the Westminister Dog Show is on and I just can't keep my eyes of it. Wish we all were as precious and as good as all of the little dogs in the world. They are so loving, forgiving, accepting, and there are not even enough adjectives to describe them! Who else greets you when you come home the same after a couple of hours as a couple of days! Not sure about "couple of weeks!}
Last night I made the Chocolate Cake I had written about a couple of nights ago. I made Travis a special Rampkin filled cake - topped with icing and served with sliced strawbery on the side. In Travis' cake, I put a couple of pieces of candy we had just received. He said it was really good -- SO - when you are cooking something boring, or ordinary - add something special!
Have a great night -- I promise more recipes - tried and true -- like the delicious chicken sandwich Michelle and I had tonight -- I love my grill pan!! She even has more for lunch. I only ate 2 quarters - so filling and so delicious. Also the sweet potato baked fries were great too.
Have a blessed evening -- and don't forget -- there are so many out there (even in our churches- but not only there - check the shelters), much less our grandparents, our elderly parents ) that need us -- for food, love, understanding and just listening. They have so much to tell and if you don't listen - you will miss a great part of your history - your heritage - and your loved ones. Each of us need to fill ourselves with those stories. THINK ABOUT IT!!!
Here is something else to think about!
Two Thieves in the Palace
John 14:27 ”Let not you heart be trouble; neither let it be afraid.”
There are two thieves waiting to ransack your live. These servants of satin came from the pits of hell to destroy you. They will seize every opportunity they find, and once given access into the unspecting soul they will trash the palace with disregard to the value of its priceless treasures. Their names are Hurry and Worry.
“Let not your heart be trouble,” Jesus said. The word He used means to be agitated like boiling water. In other words, don’t be over heated and in a hurry. Jesus went on to say, “Don’t be afraid.” The word here means cowardly and unbelieving. Hurry will trouble your heart, and worry will make it afraid. And both will ruin your life.
What a bizarre pair they make—inseparably linked in mental tension and continually at war with each other. Hurry always runs ahead, while worry lags behind. Hurry is reckless; Worry is cautious. Hurry sees only those things that speed him on his way, while Worry sees only those things that are in the way and are sure to cause a problem.
Hurry never sees the thousands of little things that make life truly worth living. Worry sees nothing but a thousand little things, none of which have anything to do with life at all. Hurry never thinks about the consequences of hasty choices, and Worry never makes a choice at all-for it might be the wrong one.
These two thieves are forever pulling in opposite directions. God pity the man or woman whose life is filled with Hurry and Worry. Oh hear the words of Jesus as He speak straight to you-“Let not your heart be troubled; neither let it be afraid.”
“May the Lamb that was slain receive the rewards of His suffering.”
Thieves in the Palace
Have a blessed evening!!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
A GREAT WEEKEND SPENT IN FORT WORTH
My how time flies when you are having a good time - and how it pokes when you're in a place you'd really rather not be! Thanks so much Kelsie for staying with Michelle and allowing us to get away for the first time in over six months! Fort Worth is like stepping back in time or into a western movie and it was great! We ate at Joe T. Garcia's and then at Reata's - which was awesome. The food is Texas cuisine with a real southwest flavor. Travis bought me their cookbook and there are some awesome recipes in it -- and some a little strange!! He made sure that my day was so special!! But speaking of food -- tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Now I don't know if all of you like to be taken out and treated to a great meal - or you like to cook something special for your man or lady! If that is the case - I have a couple of suggestions: Of course there is always the steak - marinated and grilled to perfection -- instead of drowning it in butter to keep it moist, just spritz it with apple juice often while grilling. It works like magic and is much healthier. How about switching the carb filled white potato for a healthier sweet potato? (Make a little cinnamon butter to go on it!) Think that would fly? It would for me but not so sure Travis would go for it!! Have you bought any of the frozen sweet potato fries. I like to drizzle a little olive oil on them and put a little salt, black pepper, and cayenne on them --then bake! They are delicious - almost better than the fried ones at Breakers! A nice salad with strawberries, slivered almonds, and drizzled with a little orange olive oil mixed with white and orange balsamic vinegar. I bought the ones I use at Mistletoe this past November. They come from the Texas Olive Ranch in the Hill country. I didn't even know olives grew in Texas - but they do!! Or if you really are not going to worry about calories for this one night -- try frying a couple of pieces of good applewood bacon until crispy (careful not to burn) and mix the drippings with a little fine balsamic vinegar, one minced garlic clove, a dash of cayenne pepper and combine the bacon with it and slightly heat just before topping salad and serving. Top it off with one indulgence - Chocolate cake with Godiva chocolate center.
CINNAMON CHOCOLATE CAKE
MIX IN SAUCEPAN:
1 Cup water
4 Tbsp. cocoa
1 Stick margarine
1/2 Cup oil
Bring this to a boil.
IN MIXING BOWL,MIX:
2 cups four
1 Rounded tsp. baking powder
2 Cups sugar
1 Tbsp. cinnamon
ALSO: HAVE TWO EITHER MILK CHOCOLATE OR DARK CHOCOLATE (USE THE PREFERENCE OF YOU SPECIAL PERSON) BARS - CUT OR BROKEN INTO 8 PIECES.
Pour boiling chocolate syrup over flour mixture. Add 3 eggs, slightly whipped. Add 1 tsp. soda to 1/2 cup buttermilk. Stir until foamy; add to cake mixture. Stir until well mixed. Bake in greased and floured 9 x 13" pan for 25 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean when inserted to center of cake. NOW FOR VALENTINES: USE INDIVIDUAL 4 or 5 oz. RAMEKIN CUPS (RAMEKINS ARE SINGLE-SERVING DISHES IN WHICH THE CUICINE IS COOKED OR BAKED AND SERVED. USUALLY CLLINDRICAL IN SHAPE, THE STRAIGHT EDGES OF A RAMEKIN HELPS TO ENSURE EVEN BAKING) AND POUR THE CUP ABOUT HALF FULL AND INSERT TWO PIECES ON TOP OF ONE ANOTHER INTO CENTER. THEN COVER THE CHOCOLATE WITH MORE CAKE BATTER TO ABOUT 3/4TH FULL. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until done.
FROSTING:
1 Stick butter
4 Tbsp. cocoa
1/3 Cup milk
Heat until butter is melted. Add powdered sugar (about 3 to 4 cups) until good consistency. Ice cake or each individual cake while it is warm. Serve warm with ice cream.
The other menu should definitely be Italian - they are known for romance!! Here is a tried and true recipe:
EGGPLANT PARMESAN LIGHT
2 Eggplants (about 2 lbs total)
3 Large egg whites
3 Tablespoons water
1 Cup plain fine dry bread crumbs
1/2 Cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided use)or Planko crumbs
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper (Penzey's is best)
2-1/2 Cups prepared marinara sauce
2 cloves garlic - pressed or finely minced
1/3 cup slivered fresh basil leaves or 1 Tablespoon dried basil
1/4 tsp. Crushed red pepper flakes
1 Cup Grated part-skim mozzarella cheese (divided use)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly oil two large baking sheets and a 7 x 11 inch baking dish. Set aside.
Slice the eggplants crosswise into 1/2 inch thick slices. There is no need to peel them. Set aside.
In a bowl, whisk the egg whites and water until frothy. Set aside.
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
One at a time, dip the eggplant slices into the egg-white mixture, then coat both sides with the breadcrumbs or Planco crumbs. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and very tender
when pierced with a knife.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the marinara, basil, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Spread about 1/2 cup of the sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
When the eggplant is done, arange half the slices over the sauce, overlapping them slightly. Spoon 1 cup of the remaining sauce over the eggplant, then top with 1/2 cup of the mozzarella.
Arrange the remaining eggplant slices on top, pressing then down into an even layer. Top with the remaining sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake, uncovered, until the sauce bubbles and the top is browned,m 25 to 30 minutes.
Makes 6 servings. (Calories 291) Not bad for a delicious meal. Add a great salad and side of your favorite pasta - NOW you've got a fantastic valentines meal. It sounds like a lot of work - but well worth the time! Now for dessert - make the cake above -- or how about easy truffles for a change and sweet little bites - or of course there is always the Strawberry Cake I posted last year!
PEANUT BUTTER TRUFFLES
(If you overbeat the chocolate mixture in Step 2, beat in 2 to 3 Tbsp. more whipping cream to return mixture to a smooth consistency.)
1 (12 oz. package semisweet chocolate morsels
1/2 cup whipping cream
3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
3/4 cup finely chopped, lightly salted roasted peanuts
Wax Paper
1. Microwave first three ingredients in a medium size microwave safe bowl at HIGH 1 to 1-1/2 minutes or until melted and smooth, stirring at 30 second intervals. Let cool 10 minutes.
2. Beat chocolate mixture at medium speed with an electric mixer 1 to 2 minutes or until whipped and smooth. Cover and chill 2 hours or until firm/
Shape chocolate mixture into 1 inch ball, using a small ice cream scoop. Roll in chopped peanuts. (If chocolate becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until firm.) Place on wax paper lined baking sheets. Chill one hour before serving. Store truffles in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 5 days.
Well that is it for the evening. Here is hoping that you make tomorrow special for someone. I read a quote the other day: "A kiss is something you can't get without giving and something you can't give without getting!" That is so true! Have a blessed day and bless someone else.
CINNAMON CHOCOLATE CAKE
MIX IN SAUCEPAN:
1 Cup water
4 Tbsp. cocoa
1 Stick margarine
1/2 Cup oil
Bring this to a boil.
IN MIXING BOWL,MIX:
2 cups four
1 Rounded tsp. baking powder
2 Cups sugar
1 Tbsp. cinnamon
ALSO: HAVE TWO EITHER MILK CHOCOLATE OR DARK CHOCOLATE (USE THE PREFERENCE OF YOU SPECIAL PERSON) BARS - CUT OR BROKEN INTO 8 PIECES.
Pour boiling chocolate syrup over flour mixture. Add 3 eggs, slightly whipped. Add 1 tsp. soda to 1/2 cup buttermilk. Stir until foamy; add to cake mixture. Stir until well mixed. Bake in greased and floured 9 x 13" pan for 25 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean when inserted to center of cake. NOW FOR VALENTINES: USE INDIVIDUAL 4 or 5 oz. RAMEKIN CUPS (RAMEKINS ARE SINGLE-SERVING DISHES IN WHICH THE CUICINE IS COOKED OR BAKED AND SERVED. USUALLY CLLINDRICAL IN SHAPE, THE STRAIGHT EDGES OF A RAMEKIN HELPS TO ENSURE EVEN BAKING) AND POUR THE CUP ABOUT HALF FULL AND INSERT TWO PIECES ON TOP OF ONE ANOTHER INTO CENTER. THEN COVER THE CHOCOLATE WITH MORE CAKE BATTER TO ABOUT 3/4TH FULL. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until done.
FROSTING:
1 Stick butter
4 Tbsp. cocoa
1/3 Cup milk
Heat until butter is melted. Add powdered sugar (about 3 to 4 cups) until good consistency. Ice cake or each individual cake while it is warm. Serve warm with ice cream.
The other menu should definitely be Italian - they are known for romance!! Here is a tried and true recipe:
EGGPLANT PARMESAN LIGHT
2 Eggplants (about 2 lbs total)
3 Large egg whites
3 Tablespoons water
1 Cup plain fine dry bread crumbs
1/2 Cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided use)or Planko crumbs
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper (Penzey's is best)
2-1/2 Cups prepared marinara sauce
2 cloves garlic - pressed or finely minced
1/3 cup slivered fresh basil leaves or 1 Tablespoon dried basil
1/4 tsp. Crushed red pepper flakes
1 Cup Grated part-skim mozzarella cheese (divided use)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly oil two large baking sheets and a 7 x 11 inch baking dish. Set aside.
Slice the eggplants crosswise into 1/2 inch thick slices. There is no need to peel them. Set aside.
In a bowl, whisk the egg whites and water until frothy. Set aside.
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
One at a time, dip the eggplant slices into the egg-white mixture, then coat both sides with the breadcrumbs or Planco crumbs. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and very tender
when pierced with a knife.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the marinara, basil, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Spread about 1/2 cup of the sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
When the eggplant is done, arange half the slices over the sauce, overlapping them slightly. Spoon 1 cup of the remaining sauce over the eggplant, then top with 1/2 cup of the mozzarella.
Arrange the remaining eggplant slices on top, pressing then down into an even layer. Top with the remaining sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake, uncovered, until the sauce bubbles and the top is browned,m 25 to 30 minutes.
Makes 6 servings. (Calories 291) Not bad for a delicious meal. Add a great salad and side of your favorite pasta - NOW you've got a fantastic valentines meal. It sounds like a lot of work - but well worth the time! Now for dessert - make the cake above -- or how about easy truffles for a change and sweet little bites - or of course there is always the Strawberry Cake I posted last year!
PEANUT BUTTER TRUFFLES
(If you overbeat the chocolate mixture in Step 2, beat in 2 to 3 Tbsp. more whipping cream to return mixture to a smooth consistency.)
1 (12 oz. package semisweet chocolate morsels
1/2 cup whipping cream
3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
3/4 cup finely chopped, lightly salted roasted peanuts
Wax Paper
1. Microwave first three ingredients in a medium size microwave safe bowl at HIGH 1 to 1-1/2 minutes or until melted and smooth, stirring at 30 second intervals. Let cool 10 minutes.
2. Beat chocolate mixture at medium speed with an electric mixer 1 to 2 minutes or until whipped and smooth. Cover and chill 2 hours or until firm/
Shape chocolate mixture into 1 inch ball, using a small ice cream scoop. Roll in chopped peanuts. (If chocolate becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until firm.) Place on wax paper lined baking sheets. Chill one hour before serving. Store truffles in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 5 days.
Well that is it for the evening. Here is hoping that you make tomorrow special for someone. I read a quote the other day: "A kiss is something you can't get without giving and something you can't give without getting!" That is so true! Have a blessed day and bless someone else.
Monday, February 7, 2011
IT WAS A CARB NIGHT - BUT A DELICIOUS ONE
Valentine's day is getting closer and closer! Have you thought about what you are going to do special for your guy or girl?? Ladies - here is a recipe that I've only made twice - once for my Mom's birthday party when she turned 80 +., and once for a meal that was won at an auction. IT is certainly not original - I found it in the Tyler Junior League's cookbook "AND ROSES FOR THE TABLE!" It is a beautiful cookbook - as well as has some wonderful recipes. It is now 13 years old - my how time flies! My dear, precious sister gave it to me! The recipe is not hard - just takes time to do it right!!
DEUX AMIS BANANA CREPES WITH APRICOT SAUCE
CREPES:
1 Cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon sugar
1/4 Tablespoon salt
1 Cup milk
1/3 Cup water
3 Eggs
3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
APRICOT SAUCE:
1 Jar Apricot Preserves
3 Tablespoons Rum
2 Tablespoons Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Butter
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
6 - 8 Bananas
Whipped cream (sweetened with sugar and vanilla to taste)
1 Cup Toasted slivered almonds
Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor and process briefly. With motor running, add the milk, water, eggs, and butter through the feed tube. Process until smooth.
Heat a heavy 7-inch nonstick skillet until quite hot. Pour in 3 Tablespoons of the batter, then quickly tilt the pan so the batter spreads evenly, forming a crepte. Cook until lightly brown, 30 to 45 seconds; then turn and cook another 15 seconds.
Repeat, using all the batter. As you finish the crepes, stack them between sheets of waxed paper to prevent from sticking. Wrap the stacked crepes in plastic wrap. They will keep in the refrigerator for 2 days. 12 crepes.
Prepare crepes in advance. For sauce, whisk preserves, rum, cinnamon, butter and sugar in saucepan and let simmer. Lay each crepe out and fill with a row of sliced bananas (strawberries would work well too). Spoon sauce, whipped cream and toasted almonds over bananas. Roll crepe and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and toasted almonds. Serve immediately.
We did these for 3 couples and then my sister and I did them for about 16 at Mom's birthday luncheon.
One tip: ALWAYS READ THROUGH THE RECIPE THOROUGHLY BEFORE BEGINNING THE DISH OR GOING TO THE STORE -- THIS IS FROM EXPERIENCE!!!
Sound like a lot of trouble -- it is more than whipping up a pan of brownies - but isn't he worth it. You cooking guys might try it too!!!
I came home and made fresh chicken and dumplings this evening. My greatest joy was rushing down to Mom's with a literally steaming bowl of dumplings and red gravy on the side. I had called and asked if she had eaten and she said she was eating at the moment and when I asked what, she said "Toast and milk." I told her to stop and in less than 5 minutes the dumplings were at her doorstep. She called later and said they were great and that she ate all of them. We cleaned out a pretty big pot too -- thought I might have to pry Travis away from the table - but he actually helped clean up! What a gift - because I do get lots of flour on everything!!
Tomorrow I start cooking for Wednesday night! I know what the forecast is - but I had it announced Sunday night that RAIN OR SHINE, SLEET OR SNOW - THERE WOULD BE FOOD AT THE CHURCH ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT. I have to cook the food that I had bought for last week or it might ruin! IT will be fine this week!! Hopefully better than fine!! I just have to get back in "cook mode!!"
Well guess most of you either had or attended Super Bowl parties - hope you enjoyed them. We spent a very quiet evening at home - too old for most and not connected to the rest!
Travis is so sweet and always tries to take me someplace to escape the reality of my birthday and the fact that I am getting old. This year we may get to escape for only a couple of nights but don't know where to go. We are leaning toward Fort Worth - have not been there since downtown was revitalized and there are great Mexican food places!! Since we can only be gone for such a short time - we don't want to drive too far -- only I always love the hill country.
Here is a really easy little Pepperoni Bread recipe:
PEPPERONI BREAD
1 Tube refrigerated pizza dough
2 sticks (sliced thin) or 1/2 lb. slicing pepperoni (deli counter)
1 brick of mozzarella or 1/2 lb mozarello (deli counter)
Olive oil
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll out the dough (not too thin). Place the dough on a cookie sheet and then place pepparoni and mozzarella on top. Roll dough with pepparoni and cheese and pinch the seems together. Brush with a little olive oil. Bake 20 minutes or until dough is golden. When cooled, slice on a diagonal.
Have a great evening and start now - planning something special for that special love of yours - whether it is a mate, son, daughter, grandchild, friend or just someone lonesome and alone. There is always someone out there that would love the attention! I saw Martha Edge at the grocery store Sunday afternoon and she was planning a big Super Bowl party for her little granddaughter and herself. How precious and special is that? She was letting Annie pick out the kind of chips she wanted and everything -- only she did recommend "baked!" I loved witnessing this special lady being so sweet to her little granddaughter!!
Take care and may God bless you as you bless others!!
DEUX AMIS BANANA CREPES WITH APRICOT SAUCE
CREPES:
1 Cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon sugar
1/4 Tablespoon salt
1 Cup milk
1/3 Cup water
3 Eggs
3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
APRICOT SAUCE:
1 Jar Apricot Preserves
3 Tablespoons Rum
2 Tablespoons Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Butter
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
6 - 8 Bananas
Whipped cream (sweetened with sugar and vanilla to taste)
1 Cup Toasted slivered almonds
Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor and process briefly. With motor running, add the milk, water, eggs, and butter through the feed tube. Process until smooth.
Heat a heavy 7-inch nonstick skillet until quite hot. Pour in 3 Tablespoons of the batter, then quickly tilt the pan so the batter spreads evenly, forming a crepte. Cook until lightly brown, 30 to 45 seconds; then turn and cook another 15 seconds.
Repeat, using all the batter. As you finish the crepes, stack them between sheets of waxed paper to prevent from sticking. Wrap the stacked crepes in plastic wrap. They will keep in the refrigerator for 2 days. 12 crepes.
Prepare crepes in advance. For sauce, whisk preserves, rum, cinnamon, butter and sugar in saucepan and let simmer. Lay each crepe out and fill with a row of sliced bananas (strawberries would work well too). Spoon sauce, whipped cream and toasted almonds over bananas. Roll crepe and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and toasted almonds. Serve immediately.
We did these for 3 couples and then my sister and I did them for about 16 at Mom's birthday luncheon.
One tip: ALWAYS READ THROUGH THE RECIPE THOROUGHLY BEFORE BEGINNING THE DISH OR GOING TO THE STORE -- THIS IS FROM EXPERIENCE!!!
Sound like a lot of trouble -- it is more than whipping up a pan of brownies - but isn't he worth it. You cooking guys might try it too!!!
I came home and made fresh chicken and dumplings this evening. My greatest joy was rushing down to Mom's with a literally steaming bowl of dumplings and red gravy on the side. I had called and asked if she had eaten and she said she was eating at the moment and when I asked what, she said "Toast and milk." I told her to stop and in less than 5 minutes the dumplings were at her doorstep. She called later and said they were great and that she ate all of them. We cleaned out a pretty big pot too -- thought I might have to pry Travis away from the table - but he actually helped clean up! What a gift - because I do get lots of flour on everything!!
Tomorrow I start cooking for Wednesday night! I know what the forecast is - but I had it announced Sunday night that RAIN OR SHINE, SLEET OR SNOW - THERE WOULD BE FOOD AT THE CHURCH ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT. I have to cook the food that I had bought for last week or it might ruin! IT will be fine this week!! Hopefully better than fine!! I just have to get back in "cook mode!!"
Well guess most of you either had or attended Super Bowl parties - hope you enjoyed them. We spent a very quiet evening at home - too old for most and not connected to the rest!
Travis is so sweet and always tries to take me someplace to escape the reality of my birthday and the fact that I am getting old. This year we may get to escape for only a couple of nights but don't know where to go. We are leaning toward Fort Worth - have not been there since downtown was revitalized and there are great Mexican food places!! Since we can only be gone for such a short time - we don't want to drive too far -- only I always love the hill country.
Here is a really easy little Pepperoni Bread recipe:
PEPPERONI BREAD
1 Tube refrigerated pizza dough
2 sticks (sliced thin) or 1/2 lb. slicing pepperoni (deli counter)
1 brick of mozzarella or 1/2 lb mozarello (deli counter)
Olive oil
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll out the dough (not too thin). Place the dough on a cookie sheet and then place pepparoni and mozzarella on top. Roll dough with pepparoni and cheese and pinch the seems together. Brush with a little olive oil. Bake 20 minutes or until dough is golden. When cooled, slice on a diagonal.
Have a great evening and start now - planning something special for that special love of yours - whether it is a mate, son, daughter, grandchild, friend or just someone lonesome and alone. There is always someone out there that would love the attention! I saw Martha Edge at the grocery store Sunday afternoon and she was planning a big Super Bowl party for her little granddaughter and herself. How precious and special is that? She was letting Annie pick out the kind of chips she wanted and everything -- only she did recommend "baked!" I loved witnessing this special lady being so sweet to her little granddaughter!!
Take care and may God bless you as you bless others!!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
ANOTHER COLD NIGHT
Is it going to snow or not?? Here - we never know. I took Michelle to Dr. Graham today (dermatologist) and he said the patient he was just with was saying how thankful he was to be here. He moved here last week from Chicago!!! We are blessed - that is for sure!!! The news just came on and now they say there is a massive snow storm heading our way! Rusk County is getting it now!!!
Thought I would post a picture of the kitchen where all of these recipes are either created or tested!!
I haven't cooked for two nights -- last night we went to Marios's and if you want the best veal in the world - that is the place to go - and Moe is so nice! It is always a pleasure to go there! Tonight we went to El Charro - another great place to eat!!! Most of the time Michelle and I share Tony's tacos -- but I had to have something hot -- so we both got the LaRosa -- only we always have them put guacamole instead of beans on compresta. I know that is not spelled right -- but that is the best I can do tonight! Well Blogger spell check didn't know how to spell it either. Well - once again - I just lost three recipes I had for you!
Here is basically what I said: Strawberry season is just around the corner and I read today the warm weather in California is allowing farmers there to have a great crop. Maybe they will cost less than $4.99 for a pint! Just can't pay that in good conscience! Hopefully they will be here for Valentines and my birthday. The one dessert I will eat is Angel Food Cake and strawberries. Here is a great strawberry pie:
FRESH STRAWBERRY PIE
1 Baked pie shell
2 Pints Fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
1 Cup Sugar
3 Tablespoons Cornstarch
1/8th Tsp. salt
2 or 3 Drops of Red Cake Coloring
1 Tablespoon Lemon juice.
Place berries in pie shell, point up. Crush 4 large berries; put into cup and fill with water to make one cup. Place in saucepan and bring to boil. Gradually add 1 cup sugar with three tablespoons cornstarch and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until thick and clear. Add 1 Tablespoon lemon juice. Cool. Pour over berries in shell. Be sure to cover all berries. Serve with Cool Whip. Enjoy with someone you love!
Now I know most people love a good cup of Hot Chocolate - especially on nights like tonight. Don't you hate it when you check the cabinet and there is none there? Well make up a batch of this and it will last and last and last!
HOT CHOCOLATE MIX
1 (8 QT)Box Powdered dry milk
1 (16 Oz.) Box Nestle uik
1 (6 Oz.) jar Coffee-mate
1 Box Powdered sugar
6 Tbsp. Cocoa
Store mix in empty coffee can or Tupperware. For 1 cup cocoa, mix 1/3 cup mix and 2/3 cup water. It might not be as good as Godiva's Hot Chocolate Mix but bet you will enjoy it!!
Now I have a question for you!!! How many remember when there was an Orange Julius in the mall?? Remember the great drink they served. Well try this recipe and either relive the taste or try it and see what you missed. (Thanks to Martha Smith Swenson for this opportunity -- she had this recipe in our very first Southside Bank Cookbook - and even though there have been lots of of cookbooks since 1991 - this is my very favorite! I actually use it often!!
ORANGE JULIUS
1 (6 oz. Can Frozen orange juice
1-1/2 cup water
1/2 cup milk
1/3 to 1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
14 ice cubes
Blend for 30 seconds in blender -- pour up and enjoy the experience!!
Hope you enjoy these recipes! I am going to try to post a link to something very interesting! Wish me luck!
http://downloads.cbn.com/cbnplayer/cbnPlayer.swf?s=/vod/MW131v2_WS Now I don't know if this will work or not! Try it!!
Have a great evening - stay warm, enjoy the snow tomorrow (we hope) and I pray each of you will be blessed!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
ANOTHER COMFORT FOOD FOR A COLD COLD NIGHT
My goodness - it is cold outside. First things first - The director of our Wednesday Night Ministry called me and said that we would cancel the meal for this Wednesday night and the ladies that are scheduled for next Wednesday are going to let me cook -- so all of my food won't ruin. Such wonderful sisters!!!
Tonight I really didn't want to cook - but it was (is) so cold outside - I decided the smart thing to do -- was more comfort food. So - I made up a new Potato Soup recipe (as I went) and it was really good. Served with cornbread - it made a meal and we saved money and stayed out of this wild weather.
JC'S POTATO SOUP
8 Yukon Gold potatoes
3 Carrots
1/2 large yellow onion
4 Cans Swanson's 99% Fat Free Chicken Broth
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and Pepper to taste (I like lots of pepper)
1/8th tsp. cayenne pepper
Dash of Pensey's Fox Point
3 Tablespoons corn starch mixed with cold water
1 Small Carton Whipping Cream or Half and Half (I had whipping cream last night!)
DIRECTIONS:
Peel and quarter about 8 Yukon Gold potatoes
Scrap and cut into bite size 3 carrots
Chop 1/2 onion
Add all of these ingredients to large sauce pan or stew pot and pour in the four cans of chicken broth. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes and carrots are fork tender. Add garlic, salt, pepper, Foxpoint and cayenne pepper. Then stir corn starch into about 1/2 cup cold water and slowly pour into soup to thicken. (NOTE: IF YOU HAVE INSTANT POTATOES - YOU CAN SLOWLY ADD THE POTATOES UNTIL SOUP IS OF THE CONSISTENCY YOU WANT AND OMIT THE CORNSTARCH/WATER MIXTURE.)
After everything else is added - slowly add whipping cream to produce a creamy and smooth soup. Do not boil after this is added. Serve with my "JC's Jiffy Cornbread" and enjoy.
After we finished dinner I made a Banana Pudding - but after I had mixed some of the ingredients I discovered I only had one egg. You know what I used the one whole egg (yellow and white) and a little yellow cake coloring -- and it must have been good - about one good helping left!! Lesson: Improvise -- you really don't have to have all the eggs, sugar, etc., that some recipes call for!
My cousin sent me something that is definitely worth thinking about and answering in our own heart. I know this is all about cooking but I think this is even more important!!
WHAT DO YOU WANT??
John 1:38
“Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them what do you seek.”
Two men listened attentively to John the Baptist, and one day heard him say, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John was speaking about his cousin, Jesus of Nazareth. The two men immediately left John and started following Jesus along the road. Imagine how stunned these two must have been when Jesus abruptly turned to them and point blank asked, “What do you want?”
How would you reply to such a question if it were put directly to you by the Lord? Many of us are not honest enough with our souls to even know how to answer such a question. We fumble about for words, and stumble over our secret fears, and end up sputtering in the face of life’s fleeting and unexpected opportunities. So what do you want? No, what do you really want?
So many of our wants are so foolish, while others are vainly ambitious. We want a bicycle, a car, a couple of tickets to the super bowl, oh just give me the box that seats twenty seven people so I can brings my friend (only$ 65,000.00). A better hair-do, we want world peace, and animals living in harmony with man. We want all bad people to be good and behave themselves.
We want our toilets to flush without backing up. We want the weather to stay warm so we can play Golf, and a cure for dreaded diseases. We want free stuff. We want liberty. We want money. We want our candidate in the Oval office—not theirs.
We want entertainment, pleasure, fun, and we want it without guilt. We want answers, we want snow, and we want sun-shine. You see how the list goes on and on?
Sooner or later we will actually land upon what it is we really want. That’s what Jesus is asking about. So what do you really want? He asks you, “I know all the religious answers, all the ridiculous answers, and all the right answers-but, what I’m looking for is the real answer. What do you want?”
How would you answer that question today?
“May the Lamb that was slain receive the rewards of His suffering.”
How would you answer this question -- how would I answer that question?
Last night I talked about making Buttermilk Pies and I'm sure some of you cringed! Well here is your challenge: I give you the recipe and you try it -- then come next week and eat with me on Wednesday night and try mine!!
BUTTERMILK PIE
1/2 Cup butter, melted
1-1/2 cups sugar
3 Tablespoons flour
3 Eggs, beaten
1 pinch salt
2 Tsp. vanilla
1 Cup Buttermilk
1 deep dish pie shell (either your own or store bought -- I use the store brand kind that is already rolled - comes in a box and you just unroll it into your pan. TIP: ALWAYS PUT A LITTLE FLOUR IN YOUR PAN BEFORE UNROLLING IT INTO YOUR PAN!!!)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees
2A.Place pie crust in dish and roll to smooth it out. Crinkle the dough up around the edges.
3. Beat the butter and sugar together until light.
4. Add the eggs and beat; then beat in vanilla.
5. Sift the dry ingredients together and add to the batter alternately with the buttermilk; beat until smooth.
6. Pour into a deep dish pie shell and bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes, reduce heat to 350 degrees an bake for 50 to 60 additional minutes.
7. Pie should turn a nice golden brown and a knife inserted should come out clean.
8. Best when warm - but not bad cold!!!
Try it - I promise your man or lady will thank you!!
I am hoping everyone is in off the streets, out of the cold and home - in a warm and safe invironment. Today I heard that Path was begging for blankets - that they have given out more than in their history. I feel so bad for the folks that need the blankets -- you use to be able to buy wonderful blankets for 9.98 at Walmart, but the last time I checked - there was no such thing. We just need to find a way to help.
The Red Cross is really suffering for money! We have been having so many family fires that it is draining our funds. For each fire, if the people have no place to go, we put them up in a hotel for at least 3 nights, buy all of the family members a new set of clothing and any other thing they need -- medicine, eye glasses, uniform. Anything to help them feel like life is returning to normal. We are still trying to help with first month's rent - but it is getting so hard - who knows how long we can continue this ministry. If you have $1.00, $20.00, $100.00 or more - please consider a gift to the Red Cross. WE (I AM BOARD CHAIRMAN THIS YEAR) ARE NOT FEDERALLY FUNDED -- WE OPERATE ON DONATIONS ALONE.
Have a warm and safe evening - and thank God for your warmth and safety. Come back soon!!!!
Tonight I really didn't want to cook - but it was (is) so cold outside - I decided the smart thing to do -- was more comfort food. So - I made up a new Potato Soup recipe (as I went) and it was really good. Served with cornbread - it made a meal and we saved money and stayed out of this wild weather.
JC'S POTATO SOUP
8 Yukon Gold potatoes
3 Carrots
1/2 large yellow onion
4 Cans Swanson's 99% Fat Free Chicken Broth
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and Pepper to taste (I like lots of pepper)
1/8th tsp. cayenne pepper
Dash of Pensey's Fox Point
3 Tablespoons corn starch mixed with cold water
1 Small Carton Whipping Cream or Half and Half (I had whipping cream last night!)
DIRECTIONS:
Peel and quarter about 8 Yukon Gold potatoes
Scrap and cut into bite size 3 carrots
Chop 1/2 onion
Add all of these ingredients to large sauce pan or stew pot and pour in the four cans of chicken broth. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes and carrots are fork tender. Add garlic, salt, pepper, Foxpoint and cayenne pepper. Then stir corn starch into about 1/2 cup cold water and slowly pour into soup to thicken. (NOTE: IF YOU HAVE INSTANT POTATOES - YOU CAN SLOWLY ADD THE POTATOES UNTIL SOUP IS OF THE CONSISTENCY YOU WANT AND OMIT THE CORNSTARCH/WATER MIXTURE.)
After everything else is added - slowly add whipping cream to produce a creamy and smooth soup. Do not boil after this is added. Serve with my "JC's Jiffy Cornbread" and enjoy.
After we finished dinner I made a Banana Pudding - but after I had mixed some of the ingredients I discovered I only had one egg. You know what I used the one whole egg (yellow and white) and a little yellow cake coloring -- and it must have been good - about one good helping left!! Lesson: Improvise -- you really don't have to have all the eggs, sugar, etc., that some recipes call for!
My cousin sent me something that is definitely worth thinking about and answering in our own heart. I know this is all about cooking but I think this is even more important!!
WHAT DO YOU WANT??
John 1:38
“Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them what do you seek.”
Two men listened attentively to John the Baptist, and one day heard him say, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John was speaking about his cousin, Jesus of Nazareth. The two men immediately left John and started following Jesus along the road. Imagine how stunned these two must have been when Jesus abruptly turned to them and point blank asked, “What do you want?”
How would you reply to such a question if it were put directly to you by the Lord? Many of us are not honest enough with our souls to even know how to answer such a question. We fumble about for words, and stumble over our secret fears, and end up sputtering in the face of life’s fleeting and unexpected opportunities. So what do you want? No, what do you really want?
So many of our wants are so foolish, while others are vainly ambitious. We want a bicycle, a car, a couple of tickets to the super bowl, oh just give me the box that seats twenty seven people so I can brings my friend (only$ 65,000.00). A better hair-do, we want world peace, and animals living in harmony with man. We want all bad people to be good and behave themselves.
We want our toilets to flush without backing up. We want the weather to stay warm so we can play Golf, and a cure for dreaded diseases. We want free stuff. We want liberty. We want money. We want our candidate in the Oval office—not theirs.
We want entertainment, pleasure, fun, and we want it without guilt. We want answers, we want snow, and we want sun-shine. You see how the list goes on and on?
Sooner or later we will actually land upon what it is we really want. That’s what Jesus is asking about. So what do you really want? He asks you, “I know all the religious answers, all the ridiculous answers, and all the right answers-but, what I’m looking for is the real answer. What do you want?”
How would you answer that question today?
“May the Lamb that was slain receive the rewards of His suffering.”
How would you answer this question -- how would I answer that question?
Last night I talked about making Buttermilk Pies and I'm sure some of you cringed! Well here is your challenge: I give you the recipe and you try it -- then come next week and eat with me on Wednesday night and try mine!!
BUTTERMILK PIE
1/2 Cup butter, melted
1-1/2 cups sugar
3 Tablespoons flour
3 Eggs, beaten
1 pinch salt
2 Tsp. vanilla
1 Cup Buttermilk
1 deep dish pie shell (either your own or store bought -- I use the store brand kind that is already rolled - comes in a box and you just unroll it into your pan. TIP: ALWAYS PUT A LITTLE FLOUR IN YOUR PAN BEFORE UNROLLING IT INTO YOUR PAN!!!)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees
2A.Place pie crust in dish and roll to smooth it out. Crinkle the dough up around the edges.
3. Beat the butter and sugar together until light.
4. Add the eggs and beat; then beat in vanilla.
5. Sift the dry ingredients together and add to the batter alternately with the buttermilk; beat until smooth.
6. Pour into a deep dish pie shell and bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes, reduce heat to 350 degrees an bake for 50 to 60 additional minutes.
7. Pie should turn a nice golden brown and a knife inserted should come out clean.
8. Best when warm - but not bad cold!!!
Try it - I promise your man or lady will thank you!!
I am hoping everyone is in off the streets, out of the cold and home - in a warm and safe invironment. Today I heard that Path was begging for blankets - that they have given out more than in their history. I feel so bad for the folks that need the blankets -- you use to be able to buy wonderful blankets for 9.98 at Walmart, but the last time I checked - there was no such thing. We just need to find a way to help.
The Red Cross is really suffering for money! We have been having so many family fires that it is draining our funds. For each fire, if the people have no place to go, we put them up in a hotel for at least 3 nights, buy all of the family members a new set of clothing and any other thing they need -- medicine, eye glasses, uniform. Anything to help them feel like life is returning to normal. We are still trying to help with first month's rent - but it is getting so hard - who knows how long we can continue this ministry. If you have $1.00, $20.00, $100.00 or more - please consider a gift to the Red Cross. WE (I AM BOARD CHAIRMAN THIS YEAR) ARE NOT FEDERALLY FUNDED -- WE OPERATE ON DONATIONS ALONE.
Have a warm and safe evening - and thank God for your warmth and safety. Come back soon!!!!
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