On My Mind Today

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 d...

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 ...

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.