On My Mind Today

We all go through difficult times in our life, and it can be easy to let the tough times take over. Human nature seems to bring us to this place first. We allow ourselves to fall into the lows as trying to pull ourselves out of it sometimes seems like a daunting task, and we don't know where to start.  When we are weighed down with life's problems, perhaps we need to start by looking at others around us. No matter what we are dealing with at the moment, there are so many other people who face much larger obstacles. Some of them we see on the nightly news, and the positive attitude and spirit they show in difficult times is amazing and inspiring. As we hear about their stories, we should recognize this as a positive lesson for all of us. At times, every one of us encounters difficult days, but with age we come to realize that it is much easier to approach them with a positive mind. When the day starts off on the wrong road, we need to stop and remind ourselves of all the good th

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

This recipe comes from Food Network star Jeff Mauro's sandwich chain, Pork & Mindy's. It's a Chicago style Italian beef sandwich kicked up with red pepper flakes and hot peppers. Not for the gentle soul afraid of heat, but sure to be a hit with your family and friends who love things hot & spicy. Although it takes a bit of time to prepare, once in the oven it only requires turning to ensure the pot roast evenly soaks in the juices from the jus. We absolutely love these sandwiches!! "Da Beef" Italian Pot Roast Sandwich For the Pot Roast: 1 - boneless beef chuck-eye roast (about 3-1/2 pounds) Slat and pepper 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 onion, roughly chopped 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning (I used 1/2 tablespoon basil & 1/2 tablespoon oregano) 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes 6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1/2 cup dry red wine 5 cups beef stock 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon ground dried thyme) For the Pepper: 4 green bell peppers, cut into

Both here in America, and around the world, there is more political, religious and racial division than I ever remember in my lifetime. Any political party, religion or ethnic group that teaches intolerance or hate for those who do not believe what they do, or look like them, are responsible for creating this toxic environment. They are the ones preaching and protesting the loudest - spreading hate and creating sometimes violent confrontations. Globally, the first thing that needs to happen is for the conversation to change. Perhaps a vocabulary lesson for all adults to share with the children of the world is a good place to begin. Below are words that we should start with: Human Being: A member of any of the races of Homo Sapiens; person, man, woman, child. Community: A group of people living in the same locality with sharing, participation and fellowship. Compassion: Deep awareness of the suffering of another accompanied by a wish to relive it. Empathy: The ability to identify with o

Hero: noun heroes (plural noun) 1. Typically known as: a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. We all have people we look up to that we consider heroes. They may be someone close to us such as a family member or close friend, or they may be teachers, fire fighters, public servants, or celebrities and sports figures. They all have their own way to inspire us and have a big impact on our lives. Many of these heroes are given nationwide recognition for their deeds. When they are public figures, the press or public is often there to shine a light on their achievements. So much of what they do is done where it is easily seen by passersby who are more than happy to video their actions to share on social media. When our heroes are family, friends or teachers, much of their good works are done behind the scenes and specifically for us. They do not go looking for recognition, and usually there is no one there to honor them. What they do is

Here is an easy crustless burnt cheesecake recipe that comes from Amy Nash at houseofnasheats.com . It originates from the Basque region of Spain and has a smooth, creamy taste. It is very easy to make, and you can have it in the oven in about 20 minutes. It does need to cool completely before removing from the pan, and then needs to be refrigerated for at least 4 hours before serving, so be sure to plan ahead. This cheesecake is absolutely delicious and will impress your family and friends. Basque Cheesecake 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended) 1 ½ cups granulated sugar ¼ cup all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 large eggs, room temperature 1 ¼ cups heavy cream Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with two sheets of crinkled parchment paper for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined and smooth. Add flour, vanilla, and salt. Mix again,

Since I first wrote this blog, it has become even clearer to me how important girlfriends are in our lives. We feel that our friends will be there forever, and there is enough time down the road to get together.  Unfortunately, it can become more difficult to spend time with them as we age. Many of us will face health challenges, either our own or our partners, which will consume much of our time. Some days, even a phone call will seem impossible to fit into our day. In spite of this, we must remember that taking even a few minutes to connect, is precious time we will always cherish. We must take time before we have no time. I have no idea what a man thinks about their friends, or whether they have a need to hang with the guys at times. However, as a woman, I know how important our girlfriends are to us. From the time we are young girls, we start making best friends. Of course, as we grow and mature many of these childhood friendships fade away; we make new friends that take their plac

April arrives on our door, bringing hope for warmer days. The last stubborn snow melts away, leaving the earthy smell of spring. With sunshine plants begin to awaken, their heads peeking out of the ground. The trees left barren all winter long, now have buds beginning to show. Skies that have been so quiet, fill with music of returning friends. Flying around to check the ground, finding treasures to build a new nest. Chipmunks and squirrels appear again, running across the fresh wet grass. Looking for nuts and seeds to eat, easily found on the uncovered earth. Ducks and geese return to the lake, appearing under the cover of darkness. One morning we rise, and are filled with joy, as we find them floating as they were last fall. Yet early spring can be uncertain and cruel, changing quickly before our eyes. Out of nowhere a late winter storm arrives, and we are buried in snow once again. Spring is welcome and unpredictable, toying with us from day to day. Will it be warm and sunny today,

If you are looking for a quick grab-and-go breakfast alternative, you will love these. This recipe was shared by the Camels Hump Middle School in Richmond, Vermont. Prep could not be any easier, and they will be ready in less than an hour including cooling time. They are delicious and full of protein to get your day started.  2 Cups whole grain oats 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 cup Sun Butter or Peanut Butter 2 bananas - ripe 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/4 cup chocolate chips 1/2 cup dried cranberries - no sugar or low sugar Directions: Mash bananas, mix in the rest of the ingredients, and then use cookie scoop to put on a greased sheet pan (I used parchment paper on the pan instead), and flatten slightly. Bake at 350℉ for about 10 minutes.

Easter - for some it signals the beginning of spring. For others it brings visions of the Easter bunny, Easter eggs and candy. Although it's wonderful to share the fairy tale of the Easter bunny and carry on traditions like coloring eggs and the egg hunt, we also should teach our children the true meaning of Easter. It can sometimes be more difficult to teach the meaning of Easter than a holiday like Christmas. It is easy for children to understand that Christmas is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Teaching them about the resurrection of Christ is not as simple for them to grasp. So, below I have tried to put in simple terms the true meaning of Easter. Easter is the day we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus (when he rose from the grave). No man had taken his life. He had given it freely for us - to restore our fellowship with God. He had been crucified and was buried for three days. All his disciples had believed that he was gone for good.  He had told the religious

Wake up members of the human race! There is a negative force in play that is working overtime to turn us all against one another, and the sad part is many don't even realize it. Open your eyes to what is happening in our world: We have become a society of I, me and my, and have lost the we, us and our that hold us together. People who feel their opportunities have been taken away are being drawn into messages of hatred and fear that separate us. The negative forces have cunningly pitted us against each other along religious, political and ethnic lines, magnifying our differences. We have "leaders" who are not leading to unify, but to divide. In that division they become more powerful because nobody is paying attention. Those who swore to serve and represent us no longer do so. Afraid to go against their "party" they are not standing up to the false leaders. The messages of hatred and fear are fueling hate groups making them feel empowered; with that false power

We love burritos, so when I saw this recipe, I knew we needed to give it a try. From Jamie McKinney at  justapinch.com , this can be ready for your dinner table in about an hour. Filled with an abundance of flavor, and you can use mild or hot chili to suit your taste. Good for a larger group as it will serve 8-10. Serve with a tossed salad. Chili Cheese Burritos 1 lb ground beef 1 pkg taco seasoning mix 3/4 c water 10 burrito-sized flour tortillas 24 oz canned chili with no beans 1 pkg Mexican blend shredded cheese (16 oz) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook ground beef until brown. Drain, rinse, and return to skillet. Add taco seasoning and water to the meat. Let meat and taco seasoning simmer on low heat while you heat the tortillas. Add 2-3 spoonfuls of meat to the tortilla. Top with 1 Tbsp of cheese. Roll the tortilla and put it into a 13x9 pan seam side down. Once all 10 tortillas are added to the 13x9 pan, top with the can of chili. Add the remaining cheese to the top of the chili.

We all are born with the great gift, of spreading kindness through our day. Early on it comes with great ease, no thought required to pass it on. As children we have a pure heart, that only sees the best in those we meet. We chatter, smile and share goodwill, never conceiving of an unkind world. Life brings to us many twists and turns, some that can scar our innocent soul. Our kindness that once came easily, now at times is a struggle to bring forth. There are days we are faced with troubles, where our kindness sits deep in the shadows. Hard as we try to rise up and do good deeds, our heart seems to remain rooted in sorrow. Perhaps the hard days we should dig deeper, to push through what is holding us back. Any kindness we find to share with others, will bring riches we could never foresee. Make time each day to spread a little kindness, to those whose lives seem filled with worry. A day will come when the tables are turned, and their kindness will come back to you. It really is a very

It can be extremely difficult to keep the faith when it seems like so many things continue to try us in our daily lives. Even though nobody ever said life would be smooth sailing all the way, it would be nice to see things fall into place on a more regular basis. It can be exhausting when we feel our inner strength and determination are being tested for a long period of time. It wears on us emotionally, mentally, and physically. At times we may feel that nothing ever goes right, and we reach the point where we may want to give up. Giving in can seem easier than continuing what seems to be a never-ending battle. It does not matter if our struggle is physical due to health issues, or mental/emotional from elevated stress in our life. All of these can test the resolve of even the strongest person. Nobody is immune from life’s difficulties, and some of us may have to endure more than others. As unfair as that may seem, it is a fact of life. None of us can be everything to everybody all of

We have all watched the news media sensationalizing the cost of living today. It seems as if they are trying to create havoc and fear. Although the price of the things we purchase have risen, the truth is we do have some control over how it effects our budget. We need to remember that the pandemic played a large role in the exorbitant increases we have seen on everyday items. The shortages that were created during this time allowed companies to charge much higher prices for what little was produced compared to normal manufacturing quantities. Plus, those who were out purchasing more than they needed and hoarding it also contributed to higher prices. If we listen to all the gloom and doom on our evening news, we will believe there is nothing we can do to ease the strain on our daily cost of living. The truth is, we do have some control on how we spend our money and how to save on everyday items. First of all, I am no different than millions of other people. There have been many times in

This easy recipe comes from Tonia Larson at the gunnysack.com . It takes very little time to prepare, and they are ready to eat in no time at all. They have a texture similar to peanut butter cups and the flavor is decadent! I used chocolate graham crackers which gave it an extra kick of chocolate flavor. These will be a big hit with your family. No-Bake Nutella Bars 1 sleeve graham crackers, crumbled 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 cup powdered sugar 1/2 cup plus 6 tablespoons Nutella, about 1/2 of a 13 oz. container, divided 1-1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips Mix together crushed graham crackers, melted butter, powdered sugar and 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons Nutella. Press into a foil-lined, greased 8x8-inch pan. Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave. Stir in 4 tablespoons of Nutella. Spread over the bars. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

There are many issues that have weighed heavily on my mind over the last several years. I had hoped that with time things would improve, but as we all know that is not the case. If anything, there has been more of a downhill slide which has left me deeply concerned for the future; especially what will be left for our children and grandchildren. Over the next several weeks I will be sharing a few blogs that I previously wrote hoping they would make people think about where things were headed. Here is the first one; perhaps it will hit home as we face even more volatile times.    I try to stay away from certain subjects, but as I watch things transpiring in the world it tends to stir up many emotions. With these emotions come observations and opinions that I find hard to keep to myself. So....forgive me while I share what has been on my mind. Megalomaniac: A person who is obsessed with their own power. A person who suffers delusions of their own power or importance (grandiose delusions).

One thing has become increasingly clear to me, and that is the need to sort through what we have gathered over the years. There are two reasons to embark on this endeavor: one, we don't want to leave a mess behind for our loved ones, and two, it leaves us with a great sense of accomplishment lifting a weight off our shoulders. I have always found it interesting how much we "save" thinking we will use it again, or that one of our children will want it when we are gone. The reality is we will never use it, and more than likely will forget we have it. And as I have been told by my children, they do not want our things. They do not hold the sentimental value we thought they did. Every couple of years I start the whole process of cleaning out closets and cupboards. The closets are full of clothes that I saved the last cleaning, and they still have not been worn. It is not that they do not fit, but they are things that are no longer suited to the stage of life I am in. As I get

This gluten-free potato recipe is filled with a delicious mix of rosemary and parmesan flavors. With little prep this dish can be ready for your table in about an hour. If making for a large group, you will want to double the recipe. I served these potatoes at our family holiday dinner, and they disappeared quickly. A great side dish for your family meal or gatherings with friends. Rosemary Parmesan Roasted Potatoes 1 lb. red potatoes 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil  2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 2/3 teaspoon dried) 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese 1 tsp. garlic salt Preheat oven to 400℉. Cut potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Place in a plastic bag and drizzle with olive oil. Mince rosemary if using fresh. In a medium bowl, combine the parmesan cheese and the teaspoon of garlic salt. Put cheese and salt mixture in the bag with the potatoes and shake to combine thoroughly. Spread on a baking sheet pan in a single layer. Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes, until the potatoes are crispy on the outs

As the sun rises on a late winter's day, thoughts of the to-do list fade away. What if our plan takes a turn, what if we walk away for a day. At home we see what must be done, and can find no way to hold back. Just one more thing before we stop, next thing we know the day is gone. Leave it behind and take a break, never know what we might see. Take a long ride, soak up the sun, and see what the journey will be. One place always seems to beckon, as longer days bring a bit of warmth. The coastline calls out our name, like a long-lost friend of the past. Meander along slowly, take your time, and enjoy every sight and sound. Open the window, breathe in the sea breeze, and listen to the crashing waves. Your mind says go slow, no reason to rush, the adventure will end far too soon. Tomorrow we will look back fondly on, the magic of a day with a brief escape.

Whether you believe or not, all of us have had those moments when we can't find a reasonable explanation for things that happen in our lives. That one thing that keeps popping up in your face that you finally realize is a message - a message trying to guide you in a certain direction. You may not know why, but perhaps it's trying to keep you from harm, bring someone to help you, or send you to lift up someone in need.    If we are open, and will listen, these messages can be precious gifts not only to us, but to others also. A chance meeting that brings people together at just the moment it's needed. The stranger that strikes up a conversation with us on a difficult day, with a message and smile that lifts us up, and changes the trajectory of our day. It can also be as simple as a song on the radio, the beautiful call of the birds or a gentle breeze blowing in our face which can make us stop for a moment or two. And in those brief moments our thought process can be redirect

There is nothing better on a cold winter day than a bowl of delicious hot soup. This recipe comes from Carrie Cooks at carriecooks.com . The recipe calls for turkey sausage, but I substituted ground sweet Italian sausage that I browned with the onions. It is filled with an abundance of flavor and is rich, cheesy and creamy. Carrie uses an Instant pot, but I used my slow cooker, and it worked well. This will be a definite addition to my recipe collection. Instant Pot Tortellini Soup 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 yellow onion, chopped 1 lb.  spicy or mild turkey sausage raw, casing removed (or ground Italian sausage) ½ teaspoon garlic powder minced 4 cup vegetable broth 4 cup cheese tortellini 4 oz baby greens (spinach, chard, kale etc.) ½ teaspoon dried basil 4 oz Cabot  cream cheese ½ cup light cream 3 oz Cabot Farmhouse Reserve Cheddar, grated salt and pepper to taste Add olive oil and turkey (or Italian) sausage in the inner pot of Instant pot and select “Sauté”. Or use a sauté  pan. Add

 On one of those bright, sunny February days, my mind wanders to the spring season that will eventually arrive. The groundhog says that spring will arrive early this year; I am hopeful that he is correct in his prediction. We all know that there will still be a few snowstorms to contend with, but I have to believe the worst of winter is over. That belief is the one thing that will propel me to brighter, warmer days. In the meantime, as I impatiently await its arrival, I will fill my mind of things to come. If I close my eyes and feel the warmth of the sun on my face, so many things seem real: I can see the water opening up on the lake as the sun melts away the last bits of ice. The snow that once covered the flower bed has disappeared and has been replaced with visions of spring seedlings popping up through the dirt. If I close my eyes, I can see the birds that have returned, and hear them singing their beautiful songs.  I can smell the fresh earth that has been enriched by the snow