On My Mind Today

From  https://listotic.com , these mini-Italian kabobs are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. This is an easy recipe, and it does not take a lot of time to put them together. Whether you are hosting a party, or looking for something to bring as a guest, these can be made in advance and travel well.  Prep Time: 20 Min Cook Time: 4 Minutes to Cook Tortellini, 2 Hours to Marinade Total Time: 2.5 Hours Yield: 50 Skewers Easy Mini Italian Kabobs 1 (8-9 ounce) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini Approximately 50 salami slices (usually 2 small packages) About 50 cubes of sharp white cheddar (I just buy a block and cut it into 1/4 inch thick pieces) 1 bottle of your favorite Italian salad dressing 1 (6 ounce) can or jar of medium olives (green, black, pimiento stuffed, kalamata, or a combination– your choice!) Toothpicks Cook the tortellini according to the package directions (about 4 minutes). You do not want to overcook them! They're more likely to fall apart if th

Where did you go with your vibrant soul, that once shined bright as a star. In the midst of everyday chaos, did you lose yourself once again? It used to be easy feeling free to dream, never letting things get in your way. These days so much seems to cloud your mind, that barriers hinder your vision of what could be. Torn between the inherent need to do for others, and the yearning to chase a buried dream. Your heart is filled with a desire to care for the ones you cherish, and your soul cries out, what about me? Balance, you whisper, or everyone will lose, yet balance is elusive most days. Pulled here, then there, to make sure that loved ones thrive, and telling yourself tomorrow will be for you. There is great joy in what you do for others, and their happiness is a true reward. But you are empty when there is no time left for you, and your soul feels the void. Don't lose yourself,  take a breath and step back. Remember the dreams, set time aside, and bring your heart and soul back

"Twas The Night Before Christmas," was written in the early 19th century, and is one of the oldest and most popular Christmas poems. There is a dispute over the author, and the poem has been attributed to both Clement Clarke Moore and Henry Livingston, Jr. over the years. It was first published on December 23, 1823, in the  Troy Sentinel  newspaper in upstate New York. It is also referred to as "A Visit from St. Nicholas" or "The Night Before Christmas." Today I want to share with you the original lyrics to the poem. Hope you will enjoy sharing this with your children and grandchildren. 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro' the house, Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,   In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danc'd in their heads,   And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,   Had

When the cold weather arrives in New England, I start searching for soup and stew recipes that can comfort the soul when there is a chill in the air. From Donna Elick at theslowroasteditalian.com , this crockpot potato soup is thick and creamy, and is filled with loaded baked potato flavor. It can be prepped and in the crockpot in a short amount of time, and then just turn it on and let it simmer while you work. Just finish the last couple of steps before dinner and serve with optional toppings like chives, bacon, cheese and/or sour cream.  Crock Pot Potato Soup 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced 1 medium onion, diced 6 cloves of garlic, minced 10 slices cooked bacon, diced 1 tablespoon dried parsley 3 cups chicken broth 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) 3/4teaspoon black pepper 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 12 ounces evaporated milk, or half and half, or heavy cream 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1/2 cup sour cream Add diced potatoes, diced onion

Christmas, it can bring a lot of stress to our lives, or we can make a conscious decision to relax and welcome the joyful moments. Even before the season begins, the non-stop advertisements start on television, radio, and social media. From toys, to electronics, sports equipment, and even cars. I often wonder who buys a vehicle as a Christmas gift! They are definitely in a much higher income bracket than most people that I know. Regardless of the ad before us, it does nothing but stress us out thinking of gift giving and the money involved. The last few years, I have decided to use my time to enjoy the season as much as possible. There are some gifts to purchase, but with a little effort it can be painless and not break the bank. Truthfully, there is very little that any of us need, and many times a simple thoughtful gift means so much more. Even better than a purchased gift, is a gift of your time. Although I do not bake large quantities of holiday treats as I did in years past, I do

With the Christmas holiday approaching, I am once again contemplating who I would like at my dinner table if I had the opportunity to invite anyone. There are so many people that have impacted our world in positive ways, and below is the list of those I would be honored to host. Who would you invite to your dinner table? Events over the last several years have recently had me reflecting on history, and the people who have come and gone leaving a major impact. In the midst of these thoughts one question came to mind; if I could invite anyone to my dinner table, who would it be? The answer was not quite as simple as one might think. As I started to compile my list, I found they would be a multi-faceted and diverse group, and the table would need to be quite large to accommodate them all. The people I have listed below is a small sampling of who I wish I could have the opportunity to talk with. They are religious figures, Native American leaders, Presidents, First Ladies, Civil Rights lea

This was the first year that I was able to harvest Rhubarb from my garden. Although I am unable to eat it fresh picked as I did in younger years, there is nothing better than fresh Rhubarb for pies and crisps. The recipe below is a combination of two; the traditional apple pie recipe from my Betty Crocker cookbook, and a French style apple rhubarb pie recipe from thekitchen.com . As with any of my fruit pies, I always add more cut fruit than the recipes ask for to ensure a fuller pie. The results of combining the two was a delicious pie filled with great spice flavor. French Style Apple Rhubarb Pie Filling 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or purchased) 2 cups Rhubarb 4-6 cups tart apples, sliced 3/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup flour 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla French Apple Crumb Topping 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup firm margarine or butter 1/2 cup packed brown sugar Standard Pastry Recipe 2/3 cu

The holiday season is upon us, and one thing that is certain, is that we will have a million things on our plate. The holiday shopping and planning gatherings with family and friends can take over the season leaving us worn out. This year, we have come to realize that even though the holiday parties are fun, we need to slow down a bit and really enjoy the season. As with other years, we are asked by family members "what would you like for Christmas?" The truth is, there is really nothing that we need or want in terms of material gifts. When you reach a certain age, you find you want less and not more. This year, we are telling our children that what we want is time with them. Not only during the holiday season, but throughout the year. Time is something that cannot be replaced with things and is something that we remember for a lifetime. Spending time with dear friends is also important. If time allows make a date for dinner or just a cup of coffee to catch up. Even if we can

Some days the sunshine will not grace our door, and it will be hard to find our way. When our minds feel the clouds and fog, we must push through to the other side. When we are faced with a day filled with to-do's, the list can become daunting and overwhelming. With determination we can make light work of it all, and push through to the other side. There will be times when we feel down, and self-pity can easily move in. Don't linger there for too long, just push through to the other side. Days will come when we feel lonely, even though we may stand in a crowd. If we reach out to those we are close to, we can push through to the other side. Holidays arrive with much joy and a bit of sadness too, as gatherings feel the absence of loved ones we have lost. If we share our memories of those gone but not forgotten, we will be able to push through to the other side. Life brings with it many experiences and emotions, the ups and downs that we all live through. Although we may stumble n

If you are looking for an appetizer for the upcoming holiday gatherings, these Avocado Deviled Eggs are sure to be a big hit. They are full of great flavor and will disappear quickly. They also would be an excellent addition to your Sunday brunch. Your family and friends will be asking you to share the recipe. Avocado Deviled Eggs   12 Extra- Large Eggs 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (I used Lite Mayonnaise) 1 tablespoon Dijon-style Mustard 1 teaspoon caper juice or sweet or dill pickle juice 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Dash of bottled hot sauce (or a bit more if you like things spicy) 1 ripe Avocado, peeled and seeded Snipped fresh chives (optional)   1. Place eggs in a single layer in a large saucepan. Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by at least 1 inch, add 4 tsp. white vinegar and pinch of salt (will make eggs easier to peel). Bring to a rapid boil over high heat. Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 15 minutes; drain. Rinse eggs with cold water, then place in ice wate

  Nov ember Darkness Once again you grace our door, bringing gray skies and gloominess. Your darkness can cast shadows across our souls making cheerful days harder to come by. We struggle to rise each day, and are slow to greet what lies ahead. It would be easier to bring the covers up over our heads and remain sleeping. Sunshine becomes increasingly evasive as it hides behind dark clouds. Every now and then its rays peek through, and we praise and cherish each precious moment. At times we envy the woodland  creatures who hibernate through these dreary times. They have no worries of facing the dismal days of November as they slumber, peacefully dreaming of summer days left behind. The gathering of family and friends near months end helps to lift our spirits, pulling us up from the long dark days. One day that easily washes away the dismal weeks we have recently endured. November; dark, dreary, and dreaded materializes as we are trying to enjoy the last vestiges of fall foliage.  The lo

 At some point in life, millions of people will be faced with a family member who is diagnosed with a serious illness or disease. We may be confronted with it early in life, or it will hit us in later years. Either way, we will embark on a journey filled with many phases and emotions. Even though we may notice changes in our loved one, we have a tendency to attribute it to a bad day or maybe a seasonal illness such as a cold or flu. Eventually, when the bad day or seasonal illness does not pass, we will be faced with having to admit it might be something more serious. With that admission will come many trips to doctors for a diagnosis. It may take some time for a diagnosis, however, once it comes most of us are never prepared for what we hear. Thus, our first emotion on this journey appears; shock. When we first hear the words, we will be in shock and ask ourselves "how could this happen"? We will try to ask all the questions we need to ask, and take in the options they give

From  juliasalbum.com , this stuffed butternut squash is a great fall comfort food. Filled with sausage, pecans, cranberries and spinach, it is packed with vegetables, fiber, protein, and is gluten-free. It is quick and easy to make and is perfect as a weeknight dinner, or as a beautiful side dish for the holiday meal. It is absolutely delicious and a dish that is making it into my recipe box! Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Prep time: 20 minutes     Cook time: 40 minutes     Total time: 1 hour Serves 4 people Roasted Butternut Squash: 2 butternut squash medium or large 2 tablespoons  olive oil ¼ teaspoon salt or more black pepper freshly ground Sausage filling 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion small, diced 14 oz Italian sausage spicy, crumbled (I used sweet Italian sausage which was great) 4 cloves garlic minced 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 4 oz spinach fresh ½ cup dried cranberries ½ cup pecans chopped How to roast butternut squash:  Preheat oven to 400 F. Prepare the butternut squas

Of all the seasons in New England, fall is my favorite. The warm days and cool nights of early fall breathe life into my soul and energize me. The beauty of mid fall when the leaves put on a breathtaking display of red, orange and gold is a vision unlike any other. Then late fall arrives when the days and nights get cooler, the leaves fall from the trees and November arrives. November, one of my least favorite months (with March being the other); gray days with little sunshine to warm our bones and brighten our spirits. If it were not for Thanksgiving at the end of the month, and Christmas in December, it might be extremely difficult to get through the darkness. November can bring gloomy moods if we allow it to, so I try to find some fun and enjoyment even on these days. When my oldest daughter was around two, we happened to be looking out on a cool, gray November day. The wind was blowing hard, and the leaves were falling from the trees. As I stood staring out the window a wonderful v

I see a world sick and suffering, beseeching us to heal the wounds. We must do our part to help one another, and bring harmony and peace to all. The world is filled with chaos today, no peace to be found it seems. Everywhere we look the sights and sounds, bring a heaviness that is hard to bear. Conflicts and wars linger on, with nobody willing to step back. Fueled by tyrants who want to take, with the victims trying to save what they have. Hatred being spread far and wide, there seems to be no end in sight. The instigators pushing every day, telling you who to blame. Media coverage twenty-four hours a day, it is difficult not to become numb. We must persevere to ensure, that none of this becomes the norm. Social media has become all consuming, and the children suffer the most. Bombarded with images of what they should be, and bullied by many of their peers. In spite of all of these troubling things, that are trying to destroy the world. There are many people we see each day, helping ot

There are many recipes for whoopie pies, and many companies out there today selling them. None of them compare to these. I was given this recipe many years ago by a good friend and they are truly made the old-fashioned way. They are easy to make and absolutely delicious! Old Fashioned Whoopie Pies   1-1/2 cups Sugar 1/2 cup shortening 2 eggs 1/2 cup sour milk   Combine: 1/2 cup cocoa and 1/2 cup hot water 2-2/3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda   Drop on a cookie sheet - size of a tablespoon. Bake at 350 degrees (10 to 15 minutes). Remove from cookie sheet and cool.   Filling: 3 tablespoons flour 3/4 cup milk Cook until thick and lumpy. When cool beat until smooth and then add: 3/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 3/4 cup shortening Whip until creamy.   Put filling between two cookies; repeat until all cookies are used.   

We just experienced our most disappointing Halloween in the 15 years we have been in our home. We received zero trick-or-treaters. Not one moment of joy opening the door to see little ones in costumes as their cute little voices called out "trick-or-treat"! As far back as I can remember Halloween has been a holiday that was fun for children. How could they not enjoy dreaming up a costume and going out to trick or treat for candy. Growing up there were six of us and we spent weeks deciding what we wanted to be and how to come up with the costume. Of course, back then we used what was available in the house to create our vision, and maybe we would get a purchased plastic mask. Then on Halloween night our parents took us out to go from house to house. We would run up to the door, knock, and when it was opened, we would all yell out, "trick or treat!", then watch as the treat was deposited into our bag or bucket. After saying thank you we moved on to the next house and

With age, the desire to tackle big projects is not what it was in our youth. There is no urgency as we have learned it will always be there tomorrow. Also, we recognize that it is not really that important. There are many other things that deserve our time, such as being with family and friends enjoying life. Things still get done these days, but it is done in smaller pieces and at a slower pace.  This past week I decided it was time to clean the windows that had been left untouched for far too long. I could not imagine going through the winter looking through hazy windows. Approaching this project, it initially felt like an enormous task, and I wondered if I was up to it. What once seemed so easy now appeared to be a major undertaking. There was a time in my life that something like this would be no big deal. Not only would I clean the windows, but also clean the walls and wash the curtains in one day. There seemed to be no end to the energy needed to complete big projects. Time chang

From  Julieseatsandtreats.com , this breakfast crescent ring is not only easy to prepare, but also delicious. It is a great weekend breakfast for your family, or sure to impress guests at your next brunch. It has great flavor with the bacon and cheddar, but you can add your own favorite ingredients. Next time I will put some chopped onion and peppers in the eggs and try some ground sweet Italian sausage and Asiago cheese. Breakfast Crescent Ring 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled 4 eggs, beaten 1/3 c. milk 1/4 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp salt 1 c. cheddar cheese 2 tubes refrigerated crescent rolls (8 oz. each) INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a mixing bowl combine eggs, milk, pepper and salt. Whisk until combined. Pour eggs into skillet and scrambled over medium heat. Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. Arrange triangles on a 14-inch ungreased pizza pan with points toward the outside and wide ends overlapping at the center, leaving a 4-inch opening in the center. Pres

 As the last vestiges of fall’s colorful display begins to wane so many other changes are on the horizon. The long summer days have passed us by, and darkness is the unwanted friend that is quickly taking over. There are too many months ahead that we will have to endure more black skies than light. It will take all of our strength to find the things that will keep our soul filled with brightness, and we desperately need the light these days more than ever. If I am fortunate, over the next several weeks I will still hear the haunting call of my Loons in the early morning or twilight hours of the day. I hold tightly onto this sound in hopes that my memory will bring it forth after they make their journey to float on the ocean for the winter. I look forward to this beautiful music each spring and wish that it would last the year through; serenading me into a calm, peaceful place. The sun does not rise as high in the sky as it did during the summer months, nor does it feel as hot on our sk

These hands once young and smooth, now carry the scars of time. Some days I gaze upon them, and wonder whose they are. Once the hands of a child, that loved to play in the mud. Never a thought or worry, as to how these hands looked. As years passed priorities changed, and these hands became important. Lotions, potions and painted nails to show off their natural beauty. Then arrived the child raising years, keeping these hands so busy. Carrying babies, then chasing toddlers, playing and enjoying precious moments. Laundry and cleaning, meals to cook, making a house a home. Ensuring that all within the walls, feel safe, secure and loved. Years of working took their toll, slowly these hands transformed. Once smooth and blemish free, small changes began to appear. Now the senior years have arrived, and time has left a trail. As I think of all these hands have done, I welcome every scar, wrinkle and flaw.

Fall is here and it's time for the comfort foods for cooler days. This Posole is very easy to make and has great taste with a bit of heat. I add sliced Andouille Sausage for an extra kick. If you and your family like foods with some spice, then this is sure to be a favorite. Homemade cornbread is a great side. Zesty Bean Posole   2 each 15–16-ounce cans hominy, rinsed and drained 2 each 15–16-ounce cans red beans, rinsed and drained 1 - 32-ounce container chicken stock 2links of Andouille sausage, sliced 1 - 16-ounce jar thick and chunky salsa (I used medium for a little heat) 2 teaspoons dried oregano, crushed 1/2 cup half and half 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour sliced scallions shredded Cheddar cheese   1. in a slow cooker combine hominy, beans, broth, salsa and oregano. Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 7 to 8 hours or on high-heat setting for 3-1/2 to 4 hours. 2. With 30 minutes of cooking time remaining, increase to high heat setting if necessary. In a small bowl stir toge

A very dear friend presented me with a copy of  Gift from the Sea  by Anne Morrow Lindbergh several years ago. I have read it twice since receiving it and am grateful for this gift. Lindbergh wrote  Gift from the Sea  in 1955 while taking a short vacation at the ocean and found inspiration from the shells on the shore. Her insights on a woman's life are both interesting, and so familiar in many ways. An excerpt from the  Oyster Bed  chapter: Many people never climb above the plateau of forty-to-fifty. The signs that presage growth, so familiar, it seems to me, to those in early adolescence: discontent, restlessness, doubt, despair, longing, are interpreted falsely as signs of decay. In youth one does not as often misinterpret the signs; one accepts them, quite rightly, as growing pains. One takes them seriously, listens to them, follows where they lead. One is afraid. Naturally. Who is not afraid of pure space - that breath-taking empty space of an open door? But despite fear, one

The world has become harsh and cruel, human compassion absent in too many. So quick to look down on others, without stopping to truly see. Do they ever think about how it might be, to spend time in another's shoes? One wonders as they observe the less fortunate, do they believe it could never be them. Rushing to judge and criticize, to target and ridicule in public, As if by pointing a finger at another, makes them look superior in some way. Unexpected things happen in our lives, that we never believed could be. Plan as we may events occur, that we could not have foreseen. None of us are immune, from the twists and turns of life. In the blink of an eye all could change, and take our blessings away. The next time that you want to look down upon those less fortunate than you, Take a lesson from the old adage which says, "There but for the Grace of God go I". 

Although I follow my Betty Crocker Apple Pie recipe, like many people I adjust ingredients to make it my own. I find that most recipes call for far too few apples, and not enough spices to give it the flavor I love. I have been using this apple pie recipe for years and always have great results. If you like a pie with plenty of apples and spice, make it with the adjusted ingredients (marked with a *). Bon Appetit! Apple Pie Pastry for 9-inch two-crust pie (make your own - see recipe below - or use a refrigerated pie crust) 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (*1 teaspoon) 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (*1 teaspoon) *I also add 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice dash of salt 6 cups pared and sliced tart apples (*I use 8-10 cups of McIntosh for fuller pie) 2 tablespoons butter Heat oven to 425℉. Prepare the pastry. Mix sugar, flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, apple pie spice and salt. Stir in apples. Turn into pastry-lined pie plate, dot with margarine. Cover with top crus

3 a.m. is the hour of writers, painters, poets, musicians, silence seekers, overthinkers, and creative people. We know who you are. We can see your light on. Keep on keeping on. ~ Iheart Intelligence ~ I came upon this quote some time ago and it settled deep into my soul as I read it over and over. The longer I write, the more I fully understand its meaning. Whether you are a writer, poet, or musician you must feel deeply about something to make it come to life. The story or poem that has simmered slowly in your mind, or the lyrics and melody vibrating through your veins, eventually take on a life of their own and they must be shared. Creativity in any form needs the right environment and time to develop and flourish. I suppose there are some who thrive with chaos around them, but for many, they need silence to allow their minds the freedom to go to places that chaos does not allow. When creativity must take a back seat to what is done to earn a living, the random thoughts that may lea

  "Friends are kisses blown to us by angels...Author Unknown"  Over the years I have been blessed to meet some wonderful, amazing people that I am lucky to call my friends. It takes time for me to let someone in and share my life, so these precious people are lifelong friends. We have been fortunate over the last few months to spend time with a few of them. It does not matter if we saw each other recently, or if it has been several months or a year, it always seems like it was just yesterday. There is no awkward silence, or any lull in the conversation, we seem to pick up right where we left off. Hours are spent bringing each other up to date on our families and how they have grown. Our children are no longer children, and our grandchildren are growing into adults. Where did the time go? So much time filled with reminiscing of days long ago. Stories that bring much laughter, and sometimes a tear or two. Every one of them a precious memory we are fortunate to keep with us for