A WONDERFUL WEEK - AND A TRIBUTE I WILL NEVER FORGET

Late it is - but that is my M-O -- right, but tonight it really is! We just watch a semi-funny - and maybe a little real -- movie - "Couples Retreat" - parts of it probably fit more couples than couples will admit!
For two days I've walked around in a cloud - so amazed and so thrilled about what has happened! Just got to share! On March 22 and March 23 I mentioned a wonderful book "Let's Have Lunch" by Marshall Howard - a world renouned auther and modivational speaker. I emailed and inquired about buying some of the books and he personally called me. We visited and I mentioned my little blog. He wanted the address! Then that very night and the next day too on his blog http://marshallhoward.blogspot.com - he actually said nice things about my blog, quoted me, and added a link to my blog from his. Now he is not just anybody but a man that has traveled the world giving seminars, talks and the writer of this wonderful book. He has spoken to nearly every organization in the USA - American Heart Association, over 60 United Ways, Acura Motors,The Salvation Army, Pepperdine University, California State University, Northwest Airlines, March of dines, Make a Wish Foundation, and many, many more! I am impressed -- but awed that he took the time to personally call me and then quote my blog for two days!! If you ever have the opportunity to hear him - it is worth the cost twice over -- it will change your life!! Check him out!!!

Thank the good Lord - it is Friday night and although I have a tough Saturday and Sunday ahead of me -- I am thankful!!

Tonight I want to give you a recipe that a dear friend sent me today. She got it off a French cooking school web. Now I have not had the time to make it yet -- and knowing me -- who knows what I might feel it needs! Already - just looking at it -- it definitely needs GARLIC!!!

PASTA SHELLS WITH SAUSAGE, TOMATOES AND CREAM

"A hearty and ever so tasty pasta dish that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes! Sea shell pasta - conchiglie - is the perfect shape to capture the creamy tomato sauce and sausage. Try this recipe for a quick and savory winter dinner."

1/2 lb. mild Italian Sausage
2 Tbsp. butter
1 large can (28 oz.) diced Italian tomatoes with juice
1 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary or dried
Couple of dashes of hot crushed red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 lb. sea shell pasta
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-reggiano cheese

In saucepan, cook sausages in boiling water for 3 minutes; remove sausages from water and whe cool enough to handle, slice into thin rounds.
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butte over medium to medium high heat, add sausage rounds and cook until lightly browned. Add tomatoes (with juice), rosemary and hot pepper flakes. Bring to a slow boil, then simmer over low heat for 6 to 8 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.l

In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil (addomg a tablespoon of salt if desired -- I WOULD DESIRE --; add pasta and cook til al dente (approx., 11-13 minutes)/

When pasta is almost done, put tomato sauce back on medium to medium high heat and add the parsley and cream. Stir and cook until slightly reduced, about 3-4 minutes. Taste for salt.

Add cooked, drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly, adding 1/4 cup of grated parmigiano cheese. Serve immediately with estra cheese on the side.

Sounds good - I will let you know what I change besides adding Garlic!!!!

Well I mentioned it is late and tomorrow I am going to decorate the fellowship hall at church for our Banquet honoring the 20 seniors we have graduating!! So for tonight - after a long and exciting week - I encourage each of you to be the very best, help someone less fortunate - and please join me again!! God's will - I will have more to say!!!

TAKING CARE OF HUBBY AND NOT AT CHURCH!! FANTASTIC RECIPE!!!!

As I have said before "Facebook is addictive and very time consuming" and I've got to figure out how to eliminate some of the stuff I get!! Bad, bad, me - I didn't go to church tonight - but not so bad - Travis went to the doctor today with his foot that had a beam dropped on it last week - it looks like a big balloon just waiting for someone to puncture it so it can burst and it did not have any broken bones but is "crushed" to quote the doctor. That on top of waiting for the doctor's office to schedule a heart cath - and working too hard - he was too tired to even go get something to eat and come home. That is when my love and respect for him kicked in and I decided to also skip Wednesday night church and cook a meal and stay home with him. I really think God understands and approves. I made the recipe that I had on my blog last night -- Caribbean Turkey Burgers with Tropical Salsa. Well readers - let me tell you - I did add some seasoning! First off I have to admit I didn't have Parsley flakes and used Sweet basil flakes. Then I added a clove of pressed garlic, some salt, and a little extra seasoning of Penzey's black pepper, and Mural of Flavoring. I did goof at the grocery store - was looking at price I guess - not product - and picked up "chunk" pineapple instead of crushed so I just put it in the blender and made crushed!! Added all of the 8 ounces to the turkey - as I said I didn't have Parsley so I used Sweet basil and then for the Salsa - I chopped up a fresh Mango (in place of crushed pineapple] - didn't want to buy a carton of orange juice for 1 Tablespoon of OJ - so I used 1 Tablespoon of pineapple juice and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Then to the recipe I added 1 clove of garlic, minced; black pepper, salt, some dried green and red bell pepper flakes I had (Penzey's of course), a little Mural of Flavoring and in place of Parsley I substituted Cilanto (which is what should go in Salsa in the first place) and it was delicious! In addition to the delicious grilled (they started out a little dry so I put "Margarita Mix" in spray bottle and kept spraying the four burgers and they turned out perfect!) burgers, I made my Pasta Salad by using the little spirals made from spinich and carrot and regular with toasted walnuts and the wonderful Asian vegetables that are packaged and all you have to do is microwave for 5 minutes. Added a littsalt, pepper, 1 clove of garlic minced (remember???? this is my "miracle cure ingredient!!)and another dash of Penzey's Miracle of Flavor! Change your recipe -- it needs the extra "Zing!"
Just got to tell you - today the most amazing and exciting thing (to me) happened. I had told you - back in March - about a book I was reading - "Let Have Lunch" by Marshall Howard and how wonderful it was and how appropriate it was for either church, work or fund raising! Well I was looking at the site and getting information so I could order some for the incoming Board of the Red Cross and I received a phone call! Shock -- it was Mr. Howard - calling me! We talked for almost 15 minutes and he gave me some insight about how to engage more of my board members and was the nicest person I've been in contact with in a long time. I ordered the books and can't wait to get them distributed to future key board members! Now that is how to not only build a business but create a relationship. Later I looked at my blog - which I just happened to mention - and he had not only checked it out but posted a comment! I am amazed - an so very honored. He is a world famous man with contacts all over the world and he takes the time to contact me and look at my little blog!

Last night I was reading Titus 3 and was blown away -- surely I had read it before - but it spoke to me last night!! If you have read many of my blog postings you know I have talked about being kind, finding a good deed to do- and on and on about doing good to others. TITUS 3 says in verse 1 :"Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good." (2)"To slander no one, to be peaceful and considerate, and to show true humility toward every man." 8) "This is a trustworthy saying." "And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be carefully devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone."

God's Word - Good enough for all of us!

One recipe: My sister's Lasagne - she always made the best and then she quit amd she may have even lost the recipe -- so sis - here it is and save me a helping!!

LASAGNE BY ALICE

1 lb. lean ground meat
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried basil, crushed
1-1/2 tsp. salt
1- 1 lb. can (2 cups) tomatoes
2-6 oz. cans tomato paste
10 oz. lasagne or wide noodles
3 cups fresh Ricotta or cream style cottage cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or Romano cheese
2 Tablespoons dried parsley flakes
2 beaten eggs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 lb. mozzsarella cheese, thinly sliced
Brown meat slowly, spoon off excess fat. Add next 5 ingredients. Simmer uncovered 30 minutesw, stirring occasionally.
Cook noodles in large amoung of boilings salted water until tender; drain and rinse. Combine remaining ingredients, except mozzarella.
Place half the noodles in 13 X 9 X 2 inch baking dish. Spread with half the cottage cheese filing; add half the mozzarella and half the meat sauce - repeat the layers.
Bake in a moderate oven (375 degrees) about 30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Filling will set slightly. Makes 8 to 10 servings!!
MY MEMORY MAY ELAPSE ON SOME THINGS BUT THIS WAS THE BEST LASAGNE I HAD EVER TASTED - OR LET ME CORRECT MYSELF - "THE BEST I HAVE EVER TASTED!"
Sis - you did it once -- please do it again!!!

God Bless each of you. Follow God's instruction - do a good deed! Tomorrow - God's Will!!!

Guess what??? I was so tired by the time I cooked dinner and "held it over" until Travis got through giving our three little furry children their haircuts(Harley on the right; on the left is my little black girl, Lexie, and Beemer bringing up the rear -- before the haircuts!) and then cleaned the kitchen that I could not even think beyond getting ready for bed -- so I skipped another night. Certainly not because I didn't want to write and share but knew I would not make sense!

Tonight I am going to share one of my favorite recipes:

FRUITED CHICKEN SALAD

3 cups cooked and chopped chicken (4 chicken breasts)
1/2 cup toasted walnuts
1 cup chopped (very small) celery
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup A(green or red) grapes - cut in half
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper (or more to taste)
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon tarragon seasoning
1 tsp. Fox Point seasoning (this comes from Penzey's in Dallas(and is optional!)
1 cup Hellman's mayonnaise with about 3 tablespoons orange juice stirred in.
1 cup Cool Whip
Combine all of the ingredients - mixing well except the Cool Whip. Just before serving fold in the Cool Whip. Serves about 12 sandwiches or large servings on lettuce! Guaranteed to please!!!

Our preacher and his sermon topic have generated some comments and interest from the "unchurched." Yes - his sermons are about Sex and "Is Sex Spiritual?" To answer the question - his answer is Yes - to enjoy the fun (and yes - from the pulpit Sunday morning he said "Sex is Fun - there I've said it "Sex is Fun!") He quickly added "in the context of marriage!" He compared the variety of sex partners to a band aid that you put on - and it helps heal something - but if you continue to pull it off and put it on - it loses its ability to stick and becomes useless or used! I believe he has agonized over these sermons but fully believes that this topic is avoided at all costs and as young people begin to have those strange erotic feelings - not knowing the cost - they start experimenting - and then are never able to fully appreciate the pure adoration of one another! They need to know that God is holy and he wants His children to be holy and pure. Anyone that wants to hear the sermons can log in to shilohroad.com and listen to his sermons.

The next time I cook - here is the recipe I am going to make:
CARIBBEAN TURKEY BURGERS WITH TROPICALO SALSA

Burgers:
1 pound ground turkey
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained and divided
2 Tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
1 Tablespoon Parsley Flakes (either McCormick or Penzey's
2 teaspoons McCormick or Penzey's Jerk seasoning

Tropical Salsa

1/2 cup crushed pineapple or chopped mango
1 Tablespoon jalapeno pepper, very finely chopped
1 Tablespoon orange juice
1/2 tsp. Parsley flakes
4 hamburger buns
lettuce

DIRECTIONS:
1. Lightly mix together turkey, 1/3 cup crushed pineapple and next three ingredients. Shape mixture into 4 burgers
2. Mix together all Tropical Salsda ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Grill burgers over medium heat or in nonstick skillet for 5 to 6 minutes per side or until done. (165 degrees F internal temperature.) Place on hamburger rolls. Top with Tropical Salsa and lettuce.

Hope you try these recipes - and enjoy them!

Think about this: "What can you do to lift someone's spirit?" Just an encouraging note on Facebook or a phone call - or a good deed! We all need to think of others first - and not "I don't have the time" to "I will make the time!" God's will - let's meet back here soon!

THE EVENING IS ABOUT OVER - AND IT'S BACK TO WORK TOMORROW!

Another Sunday night -- they seem to come sooner and sooner -- well after Friday that is!!! Another rousing sermon from our preacher - he is doing a great job with such a sensitive (to some) subject! I don't think my Mom could handle it! ha!
I have been looking through a cookbook named "Southern Season" and it says "An authentic guide to traditional East Texas cooking!" And it really is -- and in reading some of the recipes I recognize many that my Mom and grandmother made! Hot Water Cornbread, Bacon or Sausage with Cream Gravy, Fried Salt Pork with Cream Gravy, Okra and Tomatoes and many, many more. I was looking at the ingredients and it is a wonder any of us lived past 30. For instance - in the Okra and Tomatoes it says use "1/4 cup drippings from salt pork, bacon or ham." Now I have made Okra and Tomatoes but in the place of basically "fat" I have used 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil to saute the onion! And they never cooked beans or peas or soup without some fat meat in it! Now here is one recipe WE NEVER HAD!! Possum Stew! Yuk -- even the book says: Possum, because of its greasy texture, was not an East Texas delicacy, and some people never at it. The possum should be cleaned as soon as possible after shooting. It should be hung up for 48 hours; it will then be ready to be skinned and cooked." Now if you want the recipe - let me know and I will send it to you!! How many takers do you think I will get???

I am really going to try and see how healthy we can eat this week. Have you tried the "Greek Yogurt" called Fage and pronounced Fa-yeh! It doesn't have any of the additives that the sweet and fruity ones have. IT is the pure stuff and with just a little Splenda or just added a little (and I mean less than 1 tablespoon full) of grated mozzarella cheese - and I am going to try adding a few slices of fruit - it is very good. I was eating the 2% and the entire carton only has 130 calories and actually there is plenty for 2 servings! Even though I tried to be careful last week - I wasn't careful enough and I can tell my clothes are not as loose I like for them to be!! So - back to the 1000 calories per day!!

Do you like salmon? I really don't but I did try (and then adjusted) a recipe that makes even me think it is good. So - if you like Salmon - or would like to - try this recipe!

WALNUT AND PARSLEY CRUSTED SALMON
(Salmon Fillets or whole Salmon)
1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts
1/4 cup fresh packed parsley or mint
1 clove of garlic, peeled
2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp. lemon juice
Salt and Pepper to taste
1/2 tsp. Cayenne pepper (optional)

Combine walnuts, parsley ( or mint), garlic and oil in food processor and process until fine. Stir in lemon juice and season to taste (add the salt pepper and cayenne!)
Place salmon skin down on foil-lined baking dish. Spread tops and sides with walnut pesto. Cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours.
Preheat oven to 425F
Roast salmon (fillets) 10 to 15 minutes depending on thickness or (whole salmon) 20 to 25 minutes - or until fish is slightly pink in the center and flakes easily. Using a large metal spatula, carefully transfer salmon to serving plate. Garnish with walnut halves and parsley.

(NOTE: A similar recipe called for MINT in the place of parsley - but parsley is so healthy I substituted and think it is better!)

Here is another fish recipe that I really like and need to make again soon!

FISH TACOS

Take fish (either tilapia or catfish), cut into half - making strips. I then use Bodacious Barbeque rub (they sell their rub!!)and rub all over the strips! Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place fish on foil covered pan and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes - depending on thickness of fish or until fish is flaky.
While fish is baking, heat a skillet until it is hot, then take flour tortillas, on at a time, sprinkle with a little water, turn that side down into the hot pan, leave about 1 minute, sprinkle the other side, turn and leave about 30 seconds. Take up and put into a piece of foil and close. This may be placed in a warm (200 degree oven or toaster oven - continue to do however many you need. I usually make about 2 per person. When fish is done, take tortilla, place a couple of strips of fish, shredded cabbage, or you can use lettuce and tomato - a couple of slices fresh avacado, a few leaves of cilantro and fresh salsa. Roll. Serve with rice and more fresh salsa!!!

Now that is some healthy cooking. Try it and enjoy it! Enjoy a blessed rest tonight and remember - be kind - you might save a life! God's will - I will return tomorrow night!!

A TRIP REMEMBERED - MISSION REMINDED - AND THANKFUL TO BE HOME!

Saturday night!! I can't believe it has been so long since I visited with you! I tried - but I never could figure out on my Iphone how to correct the last word from azing to amazing!! Did it tonight!!! What I was trying to tell you was that Tulsa, Oklahoma - the center of the USA has a waterway that has been dug out of ranch land that reaches all the way to the Mississippi River and they can ship these huge barges from there to New Orleans in seven days. When I say huge - I mean huge -- they hold about 7 to 8 truck loads (18 wheeler trucks) or about 70 tons of cargo -- wheat, grain, steel, oil, you name it and it can be barged out of there! We got to go out on a tugboat - converted to a party boat for a catered barbeque and see first hand the barges and some of the 70 industries that have settled there! Again I just have to say amazing!

Tammy and I had a good Red Cross meeting and when you attend something like that you come back renewed and ready to send the message out -how important the Red Cross is - not just when there is a hurricane or tornado - but daily -- as someone's house burns down, or someone dies and the soldier in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Fort Hood needs to come home -- and we are the only way he or she can get permission! IT was a good meeting! The flight back had the potential to be very scary but we must have had an excellent Pilot - they said he "skirted" thunderstorms all the way to Dallas but we were never aware of any problem - he kept us steady as a rock and landed us in Dallas as smooth as a baby's butt!!!

Today I chased flowers all day -- we went to Hughes - where I've always bought ferns - and geraniums! None of either -- well -- that I would have!! Finally found some really pretty bougainvillea at Al Horanea's and Lowes so now I think it will be really pretty again out back!! We ate tonight at Joe's Italian and sorry to say I did not like it and will choose Little Italy or almost any place else before there again!!

To be honest - I cooked Monday night and that was it!! I am ready to get back in the kitchen and do something really good!

Tonight I want to share two recipes- the first one is:

BROCCOLI CORNBREAD

2 boxes Jiffy cornbread mix
4 eggs
1 cup butter, melted
1 cup small curd cottage cheese
1 Box frozen chopped broccoli, thawed

Mix well and pour into a 9x13 pan that has been well sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes in 375 degree oven!! Very good!!

Have you ever made Flan? Have you ever had Flan? It is a Mexican dessert that is really easy to make and is a hit whenever it is served!

QUESO NAPOLITANO FLAN

4 Eggs
1 Large can Evaporated Milk (I like Pets for this!)
1 Can Eagle Brand Milk - Blend the eggs and milks 3 full minutes.
Add: 1 teaspoon vanilla.(I add 2 to 3 teaspoons!)

Carmel:
Make sure skillet or thick pan is completely dry. (I use my iron skillet!) Put into skillet 1 Cup sugar. Start with high heat and stir all the time. Adjust to low heat as it cooks. Cook until sugar is liquid. (Don't overcook!) Spread in bottom of dish. Add egg and milk mixture. Bake in water at 300 degrees for 1 hour until brown. Keep water at high level - but be careful to not allow water to splatter in flan.
Remove from heat and allow to cool. Put into refrigerator and let get cold. Turn out onto platter and serve!!!

My sincerest hope is that you will try some of these recipes and if you don't understand something you will either call or write me! Have a blessed "rest of the weekend" and God's will I will be back on schedule!!

JUST A HELLO FROM TULSA

Hello from Tulsa! I can't write much on this Iphone-not too good at texting but I don't know if you've missed me or not but I have missed the conversation even if it was one way!! Saw an amazing thing last night! Did you know that in the center of the heartland there is Port in Oklahoma that has a waterway that reaches over 600 miles and can transport over 60,000 lbs from Tulsa to New Orleans in seven days! It is called Tulsa Port of Catoosa! Amazing!!! Will try and catch up when I get home!

RECIPES - WONDERFUL MEMORIES MADE - AND WORK!!!

Here it is - a recipe I promised - and I promise -"it is delicious!!"

MANGO - STRAWBERRY SALSA

½ large white onion – cut in large pieces
½ Red or orange bell pepper (I use green when red are too expensive!)
3 garlic cloves (either minced well or pressed)
1 –2 Hot Jalapeno, chopped well (more if not hot enough)
1 ripe Mango – sliced off seed
1 Pint Fresh Strawberries – cut in half
1 tsp. Salt
1 tsp. Sugar
1 tablespoon ground cumin
½ cup cilantro – chopped

In processor: Start with onion, bell pepper, jalapenos, and garlic, - process until ingredients are chopped to small pieces. Add mango, strawberries, cilantro, salt, cumin, and sugar and process just a few seconds until mango and strawberries are small chunks.
(Careful or you will have mush!) Taste and make sure there is enough salt.

My sister inspired me to make sure I got that posted tonight! She said she kept looking for it -- so Sis - here it is! So glad you enjoyed the real thing!!

Today I completed my emotional journey -- I arrived at Rose Stadium a few minutes before 9 am - dressed in long white pants, tennis shoes and a Red Cross blue sweat shirt my sweet daughter had -- and I still nearly froze to death -- after 80+ degree weather last week! Only in Texas!! But the chill - the cold neck - and the sneezing I developed are all worth it - and the thought of all the cold was wiped away with "Harmony and Understanding' from TJC singing the National Anthem! That was worth all the cold and discomfort! And to witness those wonderful soldiers praised by our State Representative Louie Goumert and see him personally shake hands with each soldier there today was worth any discomfort we felt. I will vote for him any time he runs - his morals and dedication to this nation are honorable! It was an exciting day - culminated by the release of the men and women of the 136th Military Police Army Guard stationed in Tyler, Texas. Can you imagine the happiness and peace that resides in their homes tonight?

I am trying to get my thoughts organized about what I need for my trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma for the Red Cross meeting -- what to wear - we get to the airport about 10 minutes before the first meeting begins! Duh - business casual -- what does that mean to a woman? A skirt and blouse, pants and jacket (I already know it will be cold) or capris and cute jacket?? Who knows what I will wear or put in that suitcase??? I will be doing that about 11 pm tomorrow night (have to leave about 7 am for Dallas Love!)because Travis insists I must go to a World Mission Dinner tomorrow night. I must respect his wishes -- I just hope he honors me and stays up as late as I will have to!
All day today I cooked those wonderful beans - the ones from Colorado! I served them with a little hominy and corn dish I created, and jalapeno cornbread, and ham! The beans were wonderful -- took a lot of seasoning but well worth the tasting and the adding of more spices! Just add more spices, salt, pepper - a little chili powder or anything anything you have that adds flavor! The cornbread had corn and jalapeno added. Then I did a thick slice of ham in the oven. Added some honey, grated fresh ginger and brown sugar. Baked at 350 until thoroughly heated and then topped with a sauce that was created from my imagination!

Cranberry, Raspberry and Blackberry Sauce

Melt:
1/4 stick butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
1/4 cup white wine - whatever is available
Add: 1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup frozen raspberries
1/2 cup frozen blackberries
(fresh raspberries and blackberries can be used - if available!)
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook about 15 minutes - using a fork - mash fruit! Spoon over ham just before serving. I really think it would be great on any pork dish - braised pork chops, lamb chops or pork loin.

I really hope you try and enjoy this sauce - I just thought it would be good - created it as I went - and we loved it!!

May God bless you with a restful night - and when you awake - let your first thoughts be of God and how great He is - and tell Him (in prayer) of the blessings you feel! God's will I will have more for you tomorrow and then - unless I bravely take my computer through entry into the airport - I will return on Friday night! Thanks to all of you who take the time to read through my thoughts, concerns, and recipes!

ANOTHER BUSY BUT GREAT SUNDAY!

Another great Sunday with two more vital lessons from Mark! He is tackling a tough subject in a sensitive - but very frank way. This morning he preached on how God wants more from than virginity of a young woman - he wants purity from all of us - man and woman alike! Tonight he simply sat in a chair and read selections from Revelations about Heaven (and we sang songs about Heaven). Travis said he thought there for a while he must have a bus outside with a police escort (there was one in our parking lot with its lights on) loading up to go to Heaven! He said he was ready to get on it! He was only teasing but it was a powerful lesson about where we need to think about we want to go when we die! Good job Mark!

This morning Travis told the congregation about our wonderful day yesterday and how moving it was to be in the crowd that greeted the 136th Military Police Army Guard as they arrived home from Afghanistan. Our two guys - Cliff and Chris had to meet muster at 8:30 this morning but then made it to church a little after nine. When Travis said they were in the audience - the entire church stood and gave them a standing ovation! They deserved it and a lot more!
I went to a baby shower this afternoon and it is always fun to watch such happy expectant mothers! Rachel is expecting a baby girl and the things you can buy for little girls is just amazing. She got some of the sweetest and cutest clothes!

Tonight I want to share a recipe with you that is very old - but very good!

MANDRIAN ORANGE CAKE

1 package Duncan Hines Yellow cake mix
3/4 cup Canola oil
4 eggs
1-11 oz. can Mandrian oranges, with juice
Combine and mix well. Pour into three greased and floured 9 inch cake pans. Cook at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

ICING
1 -20 OZ. can Crushed Pineapple, drained
1 -9 oz. Cool-Whip
1 Large package vanilla instant pudding
Whip together well and ice each layer of cake with the most on the top layer and sides! Refrigerate until chilled and ready to serve! Easy and very good!


I am sure you have lots of recipes for Party Weiners - but here is one that is so easy and sure to please!

PARTY WEINERS
2 pkg. tiny weiners or 2 pkg. of regular weiners (get a good brand - and I would use low fat!)
2 cups Plum jelly
1 cup Prepared mustard

combine and heat to melt jelly. Add 2 Pkg. of either little weiners or regular size cut into bite size. Serve hot!

Here is a recipe I am planning to make as soon as I know I can buy a "Good" watermelon!

TEXAS WATERMELON FIRE AND ICE SALSA

3 CUPS Texas (of course) watermelon, seeded and chopped
1/2 cup Texas green peppers
2 Tablespoons lime juice
1 Tablespoon Texas Cilantro, chopped (In the summertime you had better settle for Cilantro from a cooler place than Texas or you won't have any!!)
1 Tablespoon Texas Green onion
2 Tablespoons Texas Jalapeno peppers (Now those you can get from Texas - hopefully from my own pepper plants!)

Combine ingredients; mix well and cover. Refrigerate one hour or more!

Now to critique: Well first - I think this would need some salt, pepper, more onion, at least 2 cloves garlic minced or I prefer pressed, and at least 1/4th of a good sweet onion. Then I would definitely add about 1 tsp; sugar and 1 tablespoon of cumin. Any really good salsa has cumin. Then I think you would have an awesome salsa!!
The 10 o clock news just came on -- so if I stop now I should get the rest of the clothes folded, pick up whatever toys Harley has dragged out - and get ready for bed! I should be there by 11! So I hope you have a very blessed week and you will make an effort to make something different and great for you or your family this week!
We are starting a new Women of the Word Bible class this week on Wednesday nights at church entitled "Attributes of God!" Have you every really thought about God and the words in the Bible that describe God! You really get to know God when you study this. I hope if you read this - you might join us in this study! I am so sad that I won't get to attend the first night - but I am getting the lesson and hope I will be there next week! This week I will be spending two nights in Tulsa, OK (understand I am in for a real treat - ha!)for the Red Cross! Take care and I encourage you to start looking for God's attributes. Start with Psalms 139 - In Verse 1 "O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. 2) You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3) You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways!" God knows us - do we know Him??

A DAY GIVEN UP FOR OUR TROOPS - WOULD NEVER TRADE IT!!!

May God always bless our Nation and our Troops! I had the honor and privilege today to serve our country (or so to speak)even though it meant a change of plans. The Red Cross was invited to participate in a private ceremony and barbeque for the returning 136th Military Police Army National Guard returning from Afghanistan - and since I am Chairman elect (in July) I felt it was my duty to give up a day I had planned for Travis and I to be there! Little did I know that it would turn into a day neither Travis or I would ever forget and certainly not regret! The first part of the morning was spent waiting -as well as getting everything set up (ice, drinks, etc.), giving out water to waiting family members - many who had driven many miles to get there - because they were two hours late (typical I understand of the military) but then we found out the Commander had decided to stop in Ruston, Louisiana and have lunch. In about 3 hours - anticipation began to build and build. We knew when they passed Shreveport, then Marshall, then Longview - and finally 15 minutes away, 5 minutes away and then hold your breath - one minute away! Then -- we heard the motorcycles - and in they rolled -- the motorcycles driven by a local Vietnam veteran's group (who by the way were shunned by so many when they returned home) and then in rolled 4 huge busses (Greyhound size)! Oh I need to tell you the street (out past the old KLTV station on East Erwin) was lined with people and flags all the way to Loop 323 - what an emotional sight! I had seen this on emails but to see it in person was a lifetime experience! What an honor to be among the first to welcome them home! They were given about 30 minutes to hug and hug and love their families and then there was a short program after which we served barbeque and all the trimmings to all who chose to stay and eat! There was also about 600 chocolate and vanilla cupcakes to greet them! One sweet young soldier girl took a glass of Chick-fil-A sweet tea and said "Oh Chick-fil-A is my favorite tea and I have missed it so much!" Thanks to Chick-fil-A for donating gallons and gallons of tea and lemonade and every soldier welcomed it -- the sweet tea being the #1 favorite!! Thanks Ed King for being so very generous and you and your tea and lemonade were so very much appreciated. Every one of the soldiers was appreciative and polite and thanked us for being there - what? WE THANK THEM!!!! A wonderful day that I am thankful I lived to see!!

I don't really have a recipe tonight -- just soak in the wonderful country we live in - and go eat a Chick-fil-A - and thank those folks for being so kind to OUR NATIONAL GUARD!!! May God bless and keep each of them and each of you!! I promise I will have more good recipes starting tomorrow!!!

FRIDAY NIGHT AND SO HAPPY TO JUST STAY HOME!!!

Subway never tasted so good and it has never felt so good as to have Friday almost in the past! It has been another "Freaky Friday" with some really strange acting people! We checked and there is not a full moon! I told Kathy "they walk among us and vote!" I am so late because we just watched a really good (with the exception of some really bad - but realistic language) but we all agreed we felt like we were watching a movie about Kris Kristoferson! It was "Crazy Heart" with Jeff Bridges. I am excited about tomorrow - our troops are coming home to Tyler! The 136th Military Police Army National Guard that has been serving in Afghanistan is arriving in Tyler about noon tomorrow and as part of the Red Cross Travis and I get to help with a private welcome barbeque for them and their families. IT is especially exciting because two of the guys go to our church! There will be a public welcome at Rose Statium at 10 o clock am on Monday!

Next week I will be going to Tulsa, Oklahoma on Wednesday and coming back on Friday for Red Cross training. Much of the training will be focused on fund raising and how important donations are to our chapter. We are desparately needing donors' dollars because of the tragic fires that we have been having right here in Tyler, Smith County. Every single dollar counts!

Have you ever made Homemade Pizza? Nothing is better. One time I made HM pizzas for church on Wednesday night and I believe everyone enjoyed them. One of the favorites was the barbeque chicken one! One of my favorites is Pizza Margherita - perfect in its simplicity. I love making my own pizza crust but if you are not ready to tackle that task (even though it is very simple -- just buy one already made up or use the Pilsbury one you just unroll! How hard is that???)

Pizza Margherita

Because of it simplicity - use the freshest and best ingredients!)
1 cup warm water (100 to 110 degrees), divided
2 cups and about 2 tablespoons bread flour
1 pkg. dry yeast
1/4 tsp. sugar
4 teaspoons olive oil
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
Cooking spray
2 tablespoon yellow cornmeal
3/4 cup Basic Pizza sauce
1-1/4 cups (5 oz.) thinly sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Combine water, yeast and sugar and let set about 5 minutes. Add olive oil, 1/4 tsp. salt, and flour. Using dough hook, knead about 5 minutes. Cover and let sit about 30 minutes. Press or roll dough out to fit a 12 inch Pizza pan ( or larger if you want thinner crust - which I do). Let sit about 20 minutes and then sprinkle with remaining salt, and sprad Basic Pizza sauce evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Arrange cheese slices evenly over pizza. Bake at 550 degrees for about 11 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Cut pizza into 10 wedges and sprinkle evenly with basil.

Basic Pizza Sauce

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 - 28 oz. can tomatoes
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic to pan and cook one minute. Remove tomatoes from can, reserving tomatoes. Crush tomatoes. Stir in tomatos, juices, salt and oregano into garlic mixture. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. (OR BUY A JAR OF PIZZA SAUCE AND ADD EXTRA GARLIC TO IT!)

ENJOY!!

Have a wonderful weekend -- God's will I will be back tomorrow night with the story of the returning troops - returning to their normal life with their sacrificing families and our duty to welcome them back as the heroes they are - willing to sacrifice their life, if necessary, for our safety from the terrorists that threaten us! God Bless each of them!