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What's for Dinner tonight? Pork and Cider Stew

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Now that fall has arrived, we all turn to our collection of soups and stews for the cooler days. This one has a wonderful combination of flavors and is a hearty meal to warm you on a cold evening. From the kitchen of Woman's Day this will become one of your favorite comfort foods. Pork and Cider Stew 2 medium Sweet Potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces 3 small Parsnips or Carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices 1 cup chopped Onion 2 lb. boneless Pork Shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and coarsely chopped 1/4 cup Flour 3/4 teaspoon Salt 1/2 teaspoon each dried Sage and Thyme 1/4 teaspoon Pepper 1 cup Apple Cider 1. Layer sweet potatoes, parsnips (or carrots), onion, pork and apple in a 3-quart slow cooker. 2. Stir flour, salt, sage, thyme and pepper in a small bowl to mix. Add cider; stir until smooth. Pour over meat and vegetables. 3. Cover and cook on low 7 to 9 hours or until pork and sweet potatoes are tender when pierc...
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I Have Not Forgotten You

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I may not call as often as I used to, and my messages are not as frequent. Don't fret and wonder as to why, as I have not forgotten you. Life is not what I imagined as I entered this stage of life. The dreams of carefree days filled with fun are not as common as I had hoped. Sometimes it is hard to explain the things that are faced each day. Although they may be small at this time, the worry is not felt less. Many days seem to be long, and it is enough just keeping up. When the evening arises with time to relax, silence seems to be a best friend. I do think of you often, and treasure memories of time spent together. However, no matter how good my intentions, there are times that sleepy eyes stop a call. Know in your heart that I think of you, and cherish our time and conversations. One day when you least expect it your phone will ring, as I have not forgotten you. 
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Sadness Intertwined with Hopeful Joy

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Looking out over the lake today with bright blue skies and a light breeze sending ripples across the water, there is a hint of what's to come in the next several weeks. The trees still have colorful leaves, but the temperatures have been cooler, and many of the birds have taken their journey to warmer climates with only a few brave ones remaining. We have a pair of Loons and a duck gracing us with their presence. They take turns sitting on buoys near the docks. A Loon will sit for a while, and when the duck approaches it will raise its wings to move the duck back. Eventually the duck will jump up on the buoy, and the Loon will give in and float on the water for a bit, allowing the duck to get out of the cold water. Living in harmony yet both knowing who is in charge of the buoy. The sky looks different, there is a change in the way the air feels, and your senses know what's to come. The aroma of fall with leaves starting to fall to the ground and the breeze brin...
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Let's Have Brunch - Zucchini Quiche

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From Taste of Home contributor, Karen Howard, Lakeville, MA, this cheesy and tangy quiche is sure to be a hit at your next brunch. It is easy to prepare and ready in about an hour. Her tip to spread mustard on the bottom of the crust adds another layer of flavor. I used Dijon mustard and it was great! Zucchini Quiche Dough for single crust pie 3 tablespoons butter 4 cups thinly sliced zucchini (about 3 medium) 1 large onion, thinly sliced 2 large eggs, room temperature 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 cups shredded mozzarella 2 teaspoons prepared mustard (I used Dijon mustard) Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a lightly floured surface roll dough to a 1/8" thick circle; transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim crust to 1/2 inch beyond rim of plate; flute edge. Refrigerate while preparing filling. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add zucchini and onion; ...
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The Calm Before the Storm

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Once again, the fall season has arrived, and we anxiously await colorful leaves. As the show slowly begins before our eyes, Mother Naure may have other things in store. A storm is brewing along the shore, a Nor'easter is what they claim. Very strong winds and heavy rain, can bring destruction along its path. Many wait anxiously for what's to come, not knowing the impact they will endure. But, if our eyes are open to Mother Naure's show, there is much beauty for us to embrace. Colorful leaves and calm waters on lakes, the sky with billowing clouds like cotton. As the evening begins and the sun starts to set, brilliant blue, pink and gold color the sky. The calm before the storm is what we call it, brining spectacular beauty before our eyes. If we glance away for even a few seconds, it will turn abruptly to evening darkness. Next time a fall storm is coming up the coast, take some time to stop and look around. The beauty of Mother Nature may surprise you, in the calm before t...
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The Peace and Joy of Solitude

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Socializing and sharing our lives with others is a wonderful thing. What we receive in these interactions is many times far more than what we give. The knowledge and insights gained from our social "dances" make us more well rounded, interesting people. There is also something to be said for solitude - spending time with ourselves so to speak. Enveloping ourselves in silence gives our mind the time to slow down and sort through the many things that have gathered there during our typical noisy days. In the time we spend alone, we can learn to like who we are and find out that we truly enjoy time with this person we have become. We can find peace in our souls and maybe discover the path our life should be on. The more we learn about "us", the more we have to offer others. After the calm of the silence, we will find that we are more open to the world around us. Ready to take in new people and experiences again - to grow and learn. Also ready to give of ourselves once m...
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Coffee and Dessert - Healthier Treats Made with Pumpkin

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Several years ago, I found some healthier options for desserts made with pumpkin in First for Women magazine. They cited some facts regarding the benefits of pumpkin: It prolongs satiety - one cup of pumpkin contains only 83 calories but has 8 grams of fiber which is almost a third of your daily need. Per a USDA study, people who increased their intake of this filling nutrient decreased their overall calorie intake by 10%. It balances blood sugar - Pumpkin is rich in beta-cryptoxanthin, which reduces the risk of insulin resistance by 51% (per Japanese scientists). This makes pumpkin a great way to prevent fatigue, belly fat and cravings that can come from insulin resistance. Half a cup of pumpkin contains 100% of the RDA of vitamin A, which revs the body's production of sickness-fighting T cells. Plus, once ingested, the squash's alpha-carotene converts to retinol, which spurs skin-cell renewal and collagen production. Here are some great new ways to make your favorite desserts...
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