On My Mind Today

Warmer weather is upon us, and along with it, ice cream season. I love ice cream, so when I found this recipe in Women's Day, I gave it a try. I wondered if it was as simple as it sounded, and if it would be a hit; not only with me, but with my grandchildren. It takes only about 10 minutes to whip it up, and they were right when they said it would be a crowd-pleaser. You can add your own secret ingredients, such as chocolate chips, fruit or nuts to make your favorite. No-Fuss Ice Cream 2 cups heavy cream 1 - 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk 1-1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla 1. Using an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream, condensed and vanilla in a large bowl until thick, stiff peaks form, 3 to 5 minutes. If adding other ingredients, such as chocolate chips, stir in. 2. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan, or freezer-safe container, cover and freeze until firm, at least 8 hours and up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!!

Mother's Day has arrived once again. Although it is wonderful to have a special day set aside to recognize mothers, and those who fill the role of mother for many, I believe we should celebrate motherhood every day. All over the world mothers are the nurturers of children, and their role in shaping who these children become is invaluable. Here are just some of the things that come to mind when I think of a mother's role: Feeding, bathing and making their children feel safe and secure as infants and toddlers. Reading bedtime stories when they are too young to read themselves. Sitting at the table to help them with their homework. Staying up late to make sure the laundry is done so they have clean clothes to wear. Packing lunches for school (with all the things they like). Working long days, and even though they're exhausted, coming home to prepare dinner. Volunteering in their children's classrooms or for field trips. Coaching sports to teach kids how to be a part of a t

There was a time when land was unsettled, when wildlife was abundant and free. Living in harmony with one another, without ever having to tremble in fear. Native Americans lived by their side, having respect for nature's creatures. Only taking what they needed to survive, leaving animals to thrive in the wild. Eventually settlers arrived from afar, clearing the land and building homes. In time towns were spread far and wide, pushing wildlife from their natural domain. Year after year people took more land, despite cries from those spreading the alarm. Trying to wake people up and take notice, of the increasing harm they have done. And now when wildlife enters human space, people cry and tremble in fear. Why are they entering our land they ask, Never admitting that they took it from them. Wildlife is losing habitats every year, leaving them not knowing where to go. One day they live in peace and solitude, and the next someone has taken their home. Humans think they should fear wild

Every now and then I look through my collection of recipes and decide to create something a bit different. In this I have taken a portion from one of my enchilada recipes and added my own touches to come up with a breakfast enchilada. I will tell you that I have not tested this recipe yet, but if it compares to the original recipe for a meat and cheese enchilada it will be great. You can add a little hot sauce when serving if you like extra heat. Egg, Sausage & Cheese Enchiladas 1 can Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup Pace Picante Sauce 2 teaspoons chili powder 8 ounces ground breakfast sausage (or for heat you can use Andouille, sliced) 8 eggs 1/3 cup water, milk or half-and-half 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon butter or margarine 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese 6 flour tortillas (6"), warmed 1 small tomato, chopped 1 green onion, sliced hot sauce (optional) Stir the soup, sour cream, picante sauce and chili powder in a small bo

Preface: On September 25, 1789, Congress transmitted to the state Legislatures twelve proposed amendments to the Constitution. Numbers three through twelve were adopted by the states to become the United States (U.S.) Bill of Rights, effective December 15, 1791. Amendment I (1):  Freedom of religion, speech, and the press; rights of assembly and petition Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. The key words are, "the right of the people peaceably to assemble" .  If a group of people gather and their intent is to destroy personal property, or violently cause harm to another then they should be arrested. Vandalism is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine, or jail time of less than one year. Violence against another is a felony, which is punishable by m

I am aware that I am dating myself when I start to talk about a lack of proper etiquette and social skills in our youth and society as a whole. However, when I am out in public, or in social situations, I am often dismayed by the behavior that I encounter. Common courtesy and basic social skills seem to be disappearing. A few things that my parents taught me as I was growing up (with one or two new things added that apply today). First and foremost remember your manners and be polite. Never interrupt someone when they are speaking. Although you may think what you have to say is important, you can wait for your turn. Always say "please" and "thank you". When invited for dinner don't show up empty handed. If you are a guest in someone's home always offer to help. When someone takes the time to pick out and give you a gift, make sure you send them a hand written thank you. Do not talk about your personal life at work or in public. It is nobody's business bu