On My Mind Today

"Legends say that Hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. The Hummingbirds delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life's sweetest creation." ~ Unknown A few Hummingbird facts: They are native to the Americas, and are among the smallest birds measuring 7.5-13 cm in length. Their name comes from the fact that they flap their wings so fast (about 80 times per second). They can fly right, left, up, down, backwards and even upside down. They can hover by flapping their wings in a figure-8 pattern, and fly at speeds up to 49 mph. They live for 3 to 5 years. Their bright radiant color comes from iridescent coloring like on a soap bubble or prism, and are used to attract mates. Out of the more than 300 species, 12 of them summer in North America and winter in tropical areas. Hummingbirds migrate individually and only during the day. Their mig

Each morning as I travel to work I see a large American flag flying in the wind. At times this beautiful flag will be flying at half-mast; as if it is weeping with sadness. Flying the American flag at half-mast is a sign of respect for deceased officials, dignitaries and heroes. It also shows empathy to those dealing with tragedy. Although it doesn't carry the force of law, the United States Flag Code, signed in march 1954 by President Dwight Eisenhower, provides guidelines for the process and duration. The number of days spent in mourning with the flag at half-mast corresponds to the rank of office a person held. For Presidents, it should be at half-mast for 30 days; for the vice-president, the Chief Justice or retired Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the number of days is 10. This is done at all federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels through out the United states and its territories. There is a federal

Every year when the holiday season arrives, I go in search of new holiday sweet treats. I don't remember where I found these recipes, but knew they were worth a try. I haven't decided if I have a favorite as it seems to depend on how sweet a treat I am looking for. They are no bake and very easy to make, although rolling the chocolate balls can be a bit messy. This would be fun to do with your children, so have a great time creating some holiday sweets! Dark Chocolate Orange Marmalade Truffles 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream 1-2/3 cups (10 oz.) Dark Chocolate Morsels Orange Marmalade Toasted, sweetened flaked coconut Finely chopped walnuts Fresh orange zest 1. Line baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. 2. Heat cream to a gentle boil in a medium, heavy-duty saucepan. Remove from heat. Add chocolate, and stir mixture until smooth and chocolate is melted. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until slightly thickened. 3. Drop chocolate mixture by rou

E very now and then I will republish a blog from the past. This one was first posted in 2014 as I was being hit with an onslaught of commercials telling me to buy, buy, buy. Over time the commercialism has gotten much worse, and it's difficult to even watch television. It has made me think of Linus' speech to Charlie Brown regarding the true meaning of Christmas, which is something we all need to remember...so without further ado: A Charlie Brown Christmas was released on December 9, 1969. Even after 45 years I have not tired of the simple story of everyone getting caught up in the commercialism of the holiday, and Charlie Brown's struggle to find the true meaning of Christmas. It warms my heart each time I hear Linus explain this to Charlie Brown. Below are his simple words that mean so much..... Linus on The True Meaning of Christmas: Charlie Brown: Isn’t there anyone, who knows what Christmas is all about?! Linus: Sure Charlie Brown, I can tell you what C

Recently, in view of current events around the world, I have been thinking of history lessons from high school. So much of what I see and hear today reminds me of what transpired prior to World War II. The events that led to this war, and the atrocities that took place, should have been enough to ensure they wouldn't happen again. Sadly, I fear that if we don't wake up and recognize the propaganda being spread by world leaders, we will be doomed to repeat them. I'm not sure what history classes include for today's youth, but I question whether the true depth and damage caused by world wars is clearly laid before them. Have we become so concerned about frightening them that we have homogenized the past? Even as adults we have a tendency perhaps not to forget the past, but to bury it deep in our memories. None of us care to dwell on unpleasant events. However, every now and then something is put before me not only to remind me, but to teach me about another piece of

As I browsed through my back issues of Food Network Magazine looking for something new for dinner, I found this gem. Being a big fan of scallops and lemon it was an easy choice to give it a try. The blending of white wine, lemon, butter, herbs and parmesan cheese with risotto and scallops is heaven in your mouth. A great dish to prepare for guests during the holiday season. Hope you enjoy this as much as we did! Lemon-Herb Risotto with Scallops 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small leek (white and green parts only), halved lengthwise, thinly sliced and rinsed Salt 3/4 cup Arborio rice 1/3 cup dry white wine 8 medium sea scallops (about 8 ounces), patted dry ("foot" muscles removed) freshly ground pepper 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese grated zest and juice of one lemon 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives 1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a

As I write this it is a gray, rainy December day; a far cry from visions of a snowy winter's day in New England. The kind of day that can dampen your holiday spirit. We all know that our emotions can run high and low this time of year. The stress of preparing for the holidays can overwhelm even the cheeriest soul from time to time, but only if we allow it. When gray skies, or a too long "to-do" list are presented to us, we need to dig deep and push away the urge to feel down. This is when we need to delve into our memories to brighten the day. Go back to your childhood and let the visions take you to your favorite times; sliding down a hill or making snow forts. Remember the aroma of your mother's fresh baked Christmas cookies and the joy of eating them with a cup of hot chocolate. Let your mind play a movie from Christmas morning when your children were filled with excitement; their eyes wide with anticipation as they waited to see what Santa brought them. At

Gardening It grounds us...gets us out of our busy heads and back into our bodies. Alone there on our knees, we can breathe. With our nurturing hands duly occupied, while gardening we allow ourselves the time and space to truly feel ~ peace, pride, satisfaction , joy. ~ Jodee Stevens ~ Only a few months from summer's end, and I miss my gardens. My soul and my senses feel numb with the snow covered ground, and gray gloomy days. The sad remnants of sage, chives and oregano are peeking out of the wet snow; uncovered by a day of cold winter rain. At times it's as if they are asking when their roots will once again feel warmth. As one who loves to feel the earth in her hands and the sun on her face, I understand how they feel. It's difficult to feel fully alive when stunted by the cold temperatures and cloudy skies. Sometimes I envy their ability to go dormant during the cold winter months. Looking out the front window I see ice forming on the lake, and a b

Christmas morning can be chaotic with young children anxious to open gifts. We all want to watch the surprise and joy of our family as they remove the holiday wrappings. This delicious French toast can be prepared the night before and refrigerated. On Christmas morning just place it in the oven to bake while you enjoy your tree. The aroma will certainly bring them to the table. This recipe comes from the McCormick website - courtesy of Nicole Shoemaker from Cooking for Keeps. We tried this over the weekend and it was amazing!! Holiday Morning French Toast 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided 3 tart apples, such as Granny Smith, peeled, cored and thinly sliced 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1 inch slices 6 eggs 1-1/2 cups milk 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract 1. Mix brown sugar, butter and 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon in a 13x9 inch baking dish. Add apples and cranberries; stir

The Thanksgiving holiday filled with family and great food has come and gone. We didn't even have time to step away from the table before the onslaught of Christmas commercials began. It would be nice if they would allow us a few days to savor the memories of Thanksgiving. It's not surprising that people start to feel stressed, or have negative thoughts about Christmas. Retailers and advertisers present us with images of what they perceive as the "perfect" Christmas. Unfortunately it's not a realistic view. Nobody should feel pressured to purchase what they can't afford. Your home can be beautifully decorated with a few simple things; it doesn't have to look like the pages in a magazine. Remember, those homes are professionally decorated with an unlimited budget. Giving gifts can bring us joy when we see the faces of our loved ones as they open them. Even though we don't want our children or grandchildren disappointed, we also have to be realisti

I am not one who shops on Black Friday weekend. However, I did go into one store with my daughter and granddaughter yesterday and was dismayed by what I saw. It brings me back to a thought I have often these days - are people being taught any manners as they grow up? If you have watched the news at all over the past few days, you have seen some bad behavior by shoppers. Not only are they trying to push their way past other shoppers but will even fight with each other over one item. What would possess someone to get into a physical altercation over shopping? Is this the way they deal with everything in life when something doesn't go their way, or does some other inner being take over and erase their sense of decorum and decency? Of course, retailers play a role in this. In order to get as much business as possible they will reduce the price on a big-ticket item ridiculously low, knowing full well they only have a certain number in stock to offer. This creates an impossible situa

Thanksgiving arrives tomorrow, and although apple, pumpkin and pecan pies are traditional favorites, I am always looking for something new. This delicious combination of chocolate and pecans topped with chocolate sauce and white chocolate glaze, should please both the brownie and pecan pie lovers. I look forward to preparing this for family and friends. Pecan Brownie Pie 1 - 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk 1/2 cup sugar 2 cups (one 12 ounce bag) semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided 3 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 cups Fisher Pecan halves, divided 2 tablespoons milk 1 refrigerated (or homemade) pie crust 1/4 cup white chocolate chips 1 teaspoon milk Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 1. In a medium saucepan, simmer the condensed milk and sugar over medium heat, whisking steadily, 3 to 5 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Shut off the heat and whisk in 1-1/2 cups of the chocolate chips. In a medium bowl,

When most of us think of Thanksgiving, we envision a huge feast, long weekends, football, floats and family. The first Thanksgiving and it's meaning seem to escape many people today. So, first a bit of history: After the Mayflower arrived at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620, the Pilgrims lost 46 of the original 102 colonists. The remaining Pilgrims survived a brutal winter with the help of the Indians, and were able to produce an abundant harvest in 1621. To celebrate, a traditional English harvest festival lasting three days united the Pilgrims and natives in a thanksgiving ceremony. There would not be another "thanksgiving" meal until June of 1676. On June 29th the people of Charlestown, MA proclaimed a day of thanksgiving. This celebration did not include the Indians as the colonists were celebrating their victory over the natives. It was not until 100 years later in October 1777 that all 13 colonies joined in a one-time "thanksgiving" celebration reco

"Music is the universal language of mankind" ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Music is a universal feature of the human experience, and its melodies influence the emotions we feel while listening to it. It is true that music can communicate beyond culture and language. Even when we don't understand the language in a particular song we can feel the emotion that is intended. The melody can express happiness or sadness through rhythm, pitch and tempo. Lively up-tempo music with a great beat can be felt deep within our bodies. We will dance, spin and twirl to the rhythm that vibrates within us; such an exhilarating feeling. When listening to a classic opera like LaTraviata, we may not understand the words they are singing, but we can understand the story they are telling. Their voices can convey the joy of the moment, or make our hearts feel the immense sadness as their voices cry in song. The music of the romance languages such as Italian, French or Spanish can fill o

My daughter found this recipe at whoneedsacape.com and shared it with me. Since it was a hit with her family I figured I'd give it a try, even though my Italian man was not enthusiastic about it. As you can see it is very easy to make, and as with all crock pot meals, ready when you get home making dinner time effortless. The Dijon and maple flavors are a wonderful blend, and we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner. Another quick and easy meal to add to my collection. Hope you enjoy it too!  Maple Dijon Pulled Chicken for the Crock Pot 2-3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts 3/4 cup Dijon mustard 1/2 cup pure maple syrup 2 Tablespoons red or white wine vinegar 1 onion, chopped 1. Spray the crock pot with non-stick spray 2. Place the chicken in the crock pot. 3. Mix together the mustard, syrup and vinegar and pour over the chicken. 4. Put chopped onion on top of everything. 5. Cook on low for about 6 hours (longer is fine). 6. Remove chicken and p

Acceptance - The act of accepting something or someone; welcoming, embracing, tolerant. Growing up I was fortunate to have parents who accepted people for who they were, even if they had different views. We were taught respect for others, and often were told "treat others as you wish to be treated". Because of this it is difficult for me to understand how anyone can teach their children hate or disrespect. I find it alarming that there are so many who cannot, or choose not, to accept those who are different from them. Whether it is race, religion or politics, there is an enormous lack of tolerance today. Much of the blame for this can be assigned to some of the world's leaders whose egos fuel their desire for power. By spreading hatred, intolerance and fear they believe that they will convince the majority to follow their lead. It is irresponsible for them to perpetuate these lies, and I believe that most of the world's citizens are very aware of what they are t

The blog that follows was originally posted in 2015. After another disappointing Halloween this year it was worth repeating. I don't know what has become of us that we cannot even take our children out trick or treating; are we so afraid of our neighbors that we don't trust them enough to bring our children door to door to experience the joy of calling out "trick or treat" with the anticipation of the treat they are to receive? And what parent believes that trunk or treating is an acceptable alternative? I can't imagine driving my children to a parking lot to go from car to car collecting their treat from someone's trunk. Do they really believe that this is fun for their child? For the few children who came to my door, I thank their parents for trying valiantly to keep a tradition alive. Without further ado my original thoughts: As far back as I can remember Halloween has been one of those holidays that was fun for children. How could they not enjoy dream

I love pesto, and always consider it a great find when a new recipe comes my way that uses it. KevinandAmanda.com offer tips on travel, photography, and quick and easy recipes. This breakfast casserole they shared blends the delicious flavors of pesto, chicken and cheese with a light flaky crust. Although it's very easy to assemble, and takes a short amount of time from start to finish, it's sure to be a hit at your Sunday morning brunch. Pesto Chicken Breakfast Casserole 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1-1/2 cups prepared basil pesto 8 eggs salt and pepper to taste (1 teaspoon or less) 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Generously coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. 2. Boil chicken breasts for 10 minutes. Shred then mix with pesto. Set aside. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with salt and pepper. 3. Roll out crescent roll dough into the bot

As I look out at this dreary gray and rainy late October morning, visions of November are in my mind. November, one of my least favorite months (with March being the other); so gloomy with little sunshine to warm our bones and brighten our spirits. Even though fall will be with us for another eight weeks, I refer to this time as the last dance of fall. The cool winds coming through over the next few weeks will blow the brown and drying leaves from the trees. As they are pulled from the branches, they will do their last dance as they are tossed through the air. As this transpires I will imagine they are ballroom dancers floating and gliding across the floor; my way of seeing the beauty in this bleak in between time. Once again, we have put into storage all the things we have enjoyed over the summer and early fall. No more relaxing on the back deck in the hot summer sun. Outdoor gatherings are over until the long cold winter passes through; we will have to create our fun in the close

It's always amazing to see what something looks like in reality vs the image we see on television. It's either much grander than we thought, or so much smaller. We had the pleasure of visiting New York City over the weekend; my first time experiencing this great city. It was a short two day trip, and we fit in as much as possible. Our hotel was across the Hudson in Jersey City with a spectacular view of the New York City skyline. Beautiful in the light of day, and stunning at night as the lights glistened like diamonds. On the first night we were in the Manhattan theater district. We enjoyed a nice dinner sitting outside at a sidewalk table, watching as people scurried by on the way to their destination. Other patrons were talkative and eager to share where they came from, and their knowledge of the city. The primary reason for our trip was to attend a play; something I had always wanted to do. We saw My Fair Lady, and it was amazing and magical. The orchestra played wi

"Love - strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties; warm attachment, enthusiasm or devotion." Love, a short simple word that encompasses so many meanings and emotions. There is the love we have for our spouse/partner, the love for our children, and the love we have for our dear friends. Each one so important and so complicated at the same time. Love stirs strong emotions that usually warm our heart, and because of the strength it holds, it can also easily hurt us. When we love someone, every day is not smooth sailing. There will be times that our loved ones hurt or disappoint us, and sometimes we will do the same to them; testing our bond to one another. Our love for our spouse/partner will go through many stages; new and passionate, comfortable and close, and at times cool and distant. Each phase is a natural part of the relationship. In the end, the strength of our love, and even friendship, will be the things that get us to the partners for

From Just a Pinch Recipes, this was submitted by Brenda Watts. The original family recipe was for pumpkin pie, which later became sweet potato streusel. Her daughter then decided to become creative and changed the recipe to acorn squash streusel. I have not had the opportunity to try this one yet, but I have no doubt it will become a favorite. Any pumpkin or squash pie usually gets my stamp of approval. If you decide to make this one, please let me know what you think. Acorn Squash Streusel Pie For Pastry and Filling: 1 refrigerated pie crust, softened as directed on box (or you can make your own pie crust) 2 cups cooked and mashed acorn squash (or one 17 oz. bag of frozen acorn squash, thawed) 1/2 cup sugar 1-12/ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs, slightly beaten 1 cup evaporated milk or dairy sour cream For Streusel Toping: 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed 1/3 cup firm butter or margarine 1/3