On My Mind Today

This refreshing dessert is perfect for hot summer days. As the name indicates this light, fluffy dessert is cool and creamy, and just the right way to end your summer gathering. I hope that you and your family enjoy this fruity summer delight. Strawberry Chiffon Squares   1/2 cup butter 3 cups (about 56) finely crushed Vanilla Wafers 1 - 3-ounce package strawberry Jello 1 - 10-ounce package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed cold water 1 - 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk   In medium saucepan melt butter. Remove and stir in crumbs. Put 2/3 of the crumbs in a 13 x 9 pan - reserve remaining crumbs.   In a large bowl dissolve Jello in boiling water. Drain strawberries, reserving syrup; add cold water to syrup to make 1 cup. Add to Jello and chill until partially set.   Whip Jello mixture until thick and fluffy; fold in sweetened condensed milk and strawberries. Pour into prepared pan, garnish with reserved crumbs and if desired halved, fresh strawberries.   ...

 Our lives are not always what we want them to be, or as we had ever envisioned. We make plans with our hopes and dreams in mind; always thinking that if we are meticulous with our planning, and then stick to that plan, then everything will be as we wish. However, as we all know, things don't always go according to plan. There is an expression about "the best laid plans" which basically states, no matter how carefully we plan, something may still go wrong. There are times we are our own worst enemy. Somehow, we find a way to sabotage our dreams and perhaps some of that is out of fear. If we come up with reasons why we can't do something, then we don't have to deal with the possibility of failure. What we forget is that sometimes we need to fail in order to succeed. It can be extremely difficult to accept our lives when it seems that so many things are not going right. Even the smallest glitch in the day can be overwhelming and make us freeze and not move forward. ...

 Although we should always be engaged in our communities and country in terms of social and political issues, there does come a time when we need to let go of the reigns; a time to turn things over to the next generation. This act of letting go can make us uneasy, but if we have prepared them properly then things will be in good hands. I'm sure that our parents, and their parents, had great trepidation about allowing us to make decisions that would impact our community socially, and our government politically. We all prefer to be in control, and don't always understand the changes that take place as each decade passes. We tend to think that what has worked for us will work for generations to come. If we are pragmatic, and are able to put things in perspective, we will see things in the light of the present and not the shadows of the past. Rationality tells us that nothing can stay the same forever and much of the transformation is necessary to adapt to the rapidly changing worl...

A short while ago, we were having dinner with friends, and our host prepared this delicious meal. From Natasha Bull at saltandlavender.com , this creamy chicken stroganoff is sure to become a favorite with your family. With a tangy sour cream sauce and lots of mushrooms and tender chicken, it can be ready for your dinner table in about thirty minutes. Be sure to get a good sear on the chicken, mushrooms, and onions for extra delicious flavor.  Creamy Chicken Stroganoff 2 chicken breasts 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Salt & pepper to taste Flour for dredging 3 tablespoons olive oil divided 1 tablespoon butter 8 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced 1/2 medium onion chopped 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or more, to taste 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or more, to taste 3 cloves garlic minced 2/3 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup full fat sour cream Cut the chicken into 1" pieces. Sprinkle them with garlic powder and generously with salt & pepper, then coat each piece in flour. Add 2 tablespo...

Relationships with our partner go through many phases over the years. They ebb and flow through good times and bad, and depending on the circumstances, each one will have moments that they lean on the other for support. There is great comfort in knowing there is someone we can turn to during troubled times. Whether it is just a difficult day or week, or a more significant event, knowing that there is a shoulder to lean on can minimize the stress or sorrow. Sometimes we are the rock of support, and other times we will be the one seeking comfort. In a perfect world this sharing of life's troubles, and the giving or taking of support, would flow seamlessly back and forth for as long as we were together. However, we know nothing in life is perfect and there may come a time in our lives when the one we have been able to lean on can no longer be there in that capacity. Through no fault of their own the support they once so easily gave, they are no longer capable of giving. This change us...

July 4th - Independence Day, and the first official sign of summer. Life on the lake can get chaotic during the summer, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Things have been very quiet for several months and now the fun begins. The quiet will be broken by fireworks that will be displayed on the lake each night of this weekend and many other weekends to come. I guess we should enjoy the peace since the rest of the summer will be jam packed full of people having summer adventures on the lake. Winter and spring seem to last so long that it feels like we wait forever for the hot, sunny summer days. Now that they have finally arrived there are visits from my girls and grandchildren, trips to the ocean, cookouts with family and friends, and so much more. With the short summer months here in New England, we have a difficult time fitting it all in.  If anyone wants to come and we can accommodate them, we will gladly do so. I believe that you can never make enough memories for family and f...

I am always on the lookout for quick, easy and delicious recipes to share with family and friends. From Pampered Chef, the ricotta in this cake keeps it nice and moist, and the raspberries and lemon glaze add refreshing flavor. A great addition to your brunch menu that everyone will love. Berry Ricotta Cake with Lemon Glaze Cake:   Vegetable oil for spritzing 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ½ cup maple syrup 1 cup whole milk ricotta ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract 2 eggs 6 oz. raspberries Glaze: ½   lemon ¾ cup powdered sugar 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9-inch loaf pan with oil. 2. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. 3. Combine the maple syrup, ricotta, vanilla, and eggs in a large mixing bowl, then add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until blended. 4. Gently fold in the raspberries and pour the mixture into the loaf pan. Bake, uncovered, for 45–50 ...

As I watch the news each day, I become more and more dismayed by what I see. What continually goes through my mind is "what has happened to common decency? Has greed, jealousy and hatred replaced kindness, compassion and understanding?" It would be easy to turn away and try to stay secluded in our own little circle, but ignoring the problems will only drive us faster to an unacceptable end. We all have ownership in some way to what has happened over time, either by contributing to it and perpetuating the issues, or by ignoring it. As if by ignoring it, we will eventually turn and see that the horrific events and behaviors have disappeared. A very naïve view of the world that we cannot afford to undertake. If we don't start treating one another with decency and respect, this will not be a world any of us want to live in. I worry each day what kind of world my grandchildren will be left with. Will they have opportunities to become what they have dreamt of, or will they have...

Father's Day is a holiday to honor fatherhood and paternal bonds, as well as the influence of fathers in society. In the United States, Father's Day was founded by Sonora Smart Dodd and celebrated on the third Sunday of June for the first time in 1910. The day is held on various dates across the world and different regions maintain their own traditions of honoring fatherhood. Fathers play a significant role in their children's lives, and at times do not realize how much influence they have in shaping who their children grow up to be. On this Father's Day, I would like to share once again a blog I wrote a few years back about my own father and also wish every father a very happy Father's Day. My Father's Absence Although it's been twenty-plus years since my father's passing, I still miss him. There are some days when I feel his absence more than others; with the arrival of Father's Day there have been many of these days. My father was not a perfect ma...

From thebrookcook.wordpress.com   (adapted from LadyBehindtheCurtain.com), these churro cupcakes are a perfect dessert for a taco night party. The cinnamon-sugar coating underneath the cinnamon cream cheese frosting gives them a churro/snickerdoodle taste. They will be a big hit with both children and adults alike. A perfect recipe to make with your children or grandchildren. Enjoy!! Churro Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Yield: 24 Cupcakes For the Cupcake Batter 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1-1/2 cups cake flour 1 Tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt 1-1/2 Tablespoons ground cinnamon 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature 1-3/4 cups granulated sugar 4 large eggs, at room temperature 2-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1-1/4 cups milk For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup sugar 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature ...

Dedicated to my granddaughter, Emily, who recently graduated from high school. It seems like it was only yesterday, that your mother brought you home. A tiny bundle of softness and joy, for everyone to shower with love. The toddler years brought curiosity, and an eagerness to question and learn. You charmed the people around you, with your dimples and smile that glowed. School began and years flew by, you absorbed everything like a sponge. From academics to music and sports, You filled your life to the brim. Junior high then on to high school, you flourished and you excelled. Softball, flute, keyboard, and guitar,  banjo, jazz band, singing and more. You strived for excellence and had a plan, with a few adjustments along the way. It seemed at times you were in a race, to reach the prize at the end of the road. And now that high school has come to an end, the future you dreamed of is coming true. We are proud of the young woman you have become, and the lifetime of adventures that li...

The sun has risen on a brand-new day, and what is it all the cheery people say? Put on a smile, turn that frown upside-down, and everything is sure to go your way. Sometimes these words give us a good start, and our happy heart begins the new day. We move through the morning with ease, hoping this sunshine mood will remain. The trials and tribulations we live with, most days are handled with little effort. But every now and then we will falter, and the weariness and sadness move in. We know not the stress others may have, that put brick walls up in their way. Hard as they may try to knock them down, They will end up feeling defeated again. Everyone has their burdens to bear, there is nobody immune from hard times. For those fortunate to carry a lighter load, have compassion for those with heavier weight. The words of others that we read each day, preaching how to live a light filled life. Think positive advice, even well intentioned, can make others feel like a failure again.  Ther...

 Life, and dinner, would be dull if we didn't try new things. This easy slow cooker recipe is delicious and has been added to my go to recipes for when mealtime gets a bit boring. For a little kick hot sauce can be added when served. Enjoy! Cuban Style Braised Steak and Peppers   1/2 cup dry white wine 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano salt and pepper 1 - 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes 1 medium onion, sliced 2 red peppers, sliced crosswise 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 Tablespoon capers, roughly chopped 1 pound flank steak, cut crosswise into 3-inch pieces (flank steak can be expensive - I used sirloin tips instead) 1 cup long grain white rice 1/4 cup pimento-stuffed olives, quartered, plus 1 Tablespoon olive brine Chopped fresh cilantro, for serving.   1. In a 5–6-quart slow cooker, whisk together the wine, cumin, oregano and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper. 2. Stir in the tomatoes (and their juices), onion, peppers, garlic and capers. Nestle the stea...

 A very dear friend of mine once told me that with every ten years that pass, you will see and feel a marked difference. I have become more aware of her true words as each decade goes by. I have no problem with getting older; after all, it's inevitable and there is no use in fighting it. What we do, and what we reap from it, determines how we deal with it. We need to do our best to stay healthy and active. As the old saying goes, "if you don't keep moving, then eventually you can't move at all." Getting some exercise each day is a must. We need to keep our minds active in order to stay sharp. Whether we like to read, write, do crossword puzzles, or a myriad of other things, the more we do the sharper our minds remain. Socialization is vital. Stay in touch with family and friends; gather together as much as possible. These connections not only keep us active but also boost our energy and mental well-being. Plus, connecting with younger relatives keeps us current wi...

There is so much heaviness that we carry these days from the chaos around us. Sometimes, it seems almost impossible to move forward with positivity and purpose. However, we cannot let them win and steal our joy.  Now that we are in the late spring season, there are so many things that can restore our faith in all that is good. The season where Mother Nature awakens what has been beneath the soil during the cold winter months, and the trees suddenly display their fresh green leaves to hide the new nests filled with baby birds waiting to hatch. After dreaming all winter about warmer days, the arrival of ducks and geese signal the new season is about to begin. When the first haunting call of the Loons is heard, it touches the soul and lifts the spirits. This beautiful sound has been missed like a long-lost friend, and we are blessed that they will share their song from now until fall.  Birds return from wintering in warmer climates and the bird bath becomes a gathering place once...

From myjewishlearning.com , this coffee cake is one of the best I have ever tasted. Ashkenazi coffee cake has a history going back to 17th century Eastern Europe. The original Jewish coffee cakes called for coffee as one of the main ingredients, but today most are perfect partners for a hot cup of coffee but are totally caffeine-free. If you’re hosting some chocolate lovers, try the chocolate filling. If your family likes raisins, try the raisin-nut filling. The simple combination of pecans and walnuts in the nut filling is delicious. No matter what your choice is for fillings this coffee cake will be a big hit with family and friends. Jewish Coffee Cake Step 1: 3 tablespoons brown sugar 3 teaspoons cinnamon 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped 3/4 cup pecans, chopped Step 2a: 2 cups sugar 1 cup butter Step 2b: 2 cups flour 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt Sep 3: 3 eggs Sep 4: 8 ounces of sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla Optional fillings: 1/2 cup raisins 1 cup chocolate chips Preheat th...

Life has a way of shaking us up every now and then and redirecting us down a new path. Our vision of what the future holds can suddenly disappear like mist rising from the surface of a lake. The question then becomes how do we adjust to the new "normal" and move forward from here? When confronted with this new future, emotions will run from acceptance and compassion to frustration and feelings of hopelessness. We will do everything we can to understand, and to be there to ensure a good and safe life; however, it does not mean that there will be no discontent. Many of us dream of pursuing forgotten passions when we reach retirement, and it never occurs to us that this will not happen. There is the wish list of the trips that are yet to be planned. So many places to see and experiences to share with one another. As we face reality, and watch passions dwindle and fade, there is a sadness. How could life be so cruel to take these things away? Each new day will bring both normalcy...

After a very long, cold stretch of weather in early spring, warmth and sunshine finally arrived. Of course, it always seems to rush in with days that are far too hot and humid for mid-May. However, we will take it over the lingering cold as it feels good on our winter weary bodies. All winter I think about the flower bed buried underneath the snow. On the cold and dreary days, I spend time pondering what I want to do when the days get longer, the snow melts, and planting time nears. The ground will be ready and filled with nutrients from spring snow - poor man's manure they used to call it. When the first hint of growing season arrives, I take a trip to my local garden center to decide what will grace my flower bed. The Sunpatiens are always the showstopper. They come in several colors, will have a multitude of blossoms from summer into the fall, and are easy to care for. A Million Bell plant takes its place in front of the bird bath next to the Daylilies, and wildflower seeds are ...

If you are a big fan of ice cream, then you will love this easy ice cream cake. This recipe is one my sister gave to me many years ago. With only five ingredients, it takes very little time to put this together. It calls for vanilla ice cream, but you can use any of your favorite flavors. I make mine with 1/2 vanilla and 1/2 chocolate. It makes a good size cake, so it is a perfect dessert for a larger group. Ice Cream Cake Makes 12-15 servings 1 stick of butter 1 Family size package of Oreo cookies 1/2 gallon of vanilla ice cream 1 - 15.5 oz. jar of Mrs. Richardson's hot fudge topping 1 - large container of Cool Whip Crush Oreos. Melt butter and add crushed cookies. Press into a 13x9 pan (I use a large round pie holder as it has a lid for storage). Put into the freezer for 1/2 hour. Let the ice cream soften for 5 minutes. Take the Oreo crust out of the freezer and cover with vanilla ice cream. Pour hot fudge sauce over ice cream and spread evenly. Top with the Cool Whip and put in ...

 Anyone growing up in the northeast can relate to the old saying "summer is a short month in New England". The actual duration is the same as anywhere else but depending on the weather it can seem extremely short. As soon as we experience the first warm day our thoughts turn to all the events we want to plan with family and friends, and the coordinating of schedules begins. There are only so many weekends of summer and trying to bring everyone together can be a logistical nightmare. If we are lucky, most people will be available on the same date. For a major event we will have to plan a year in advance. Of course, all of the above needs to be maneuvered around any vacation plans we have made. Whether it is a major overseas trip, traveling locally or visiting another state, these are usually arranged well ahead of the summer season. Once these trips are set, we can only hope we will not miss family gatherings while we are away.  Now all we have to do is pray for the weather to...

Sometimes life throws us off kilter, filling our head with too much to absorb. The ensuing chaos swirling in our brain, can overwhelm even the strongest soul. Noise constantly surrounding us, so much of it out of our control. Unless we are in total isolation, there is no way to find an escape. How do others enjoy the constant din, of voices and external sounds? They seem to thrive on the chaos, still able to function through it all. For those of us who enjoy some solitude, we yearn for days free of artificial sound. No television, radios or cell phones, can help to restore some balance in life. The ultimate way to soothe the soul, is to embrace Mother Nature's sounds. The sound of the birds or calling loons, can release all the tension we hold. We need a few moments to gather our thoughts, to stop the swirling chaos in our brains. May the day ahead bring a few moments peace, to renew our tired soul once more.

Not only is this pork tenderloin delicious, but also a heart healthy choice for dinner. From the American Heart association, this elegant main dish will impress your guests when the pork is sliced open to reveal its beautiful, bright filling. It may look complicated, but it’s simple to prepare. Sweet sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and crunchy pine nuts provide a wonderful contrast to rosemary-scented pork. Pork Tenderloin Stuffed with Spinach, Pine Nuts and Sun-Dried Tomatoes 1/2 cup dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes Cooking spray 1 pound pork tenderloin, all visible fat discarded, butterflied and flattened to 1-inch thickness 2 tablespoons pine nuts, dry-roasted 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, divided use 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper and 1/8 teaspoon pepper, divided use 4 cups loosely packed baby spinach Bring 1 cup water to a boil. Put the tomatoes in a small bowl. Pour in the boiling water. Let stand for 10 minutes, or until softened....

There are an endless number of words that can be used to describe mothers, loving, nurturing, caring, healer, protector, cheerleader, warrior, comforting, understanding, compassionate, selfless, accepting, resilient, strong, courageous, generous, patient, beautiful and wise. We all have our own words to describe our mothers, and what comes to mind depends on where we are in our lives. Each stage of life brings a different role with its own meaning. Being a mother is a huge responsibility. From the day we hold our children for the very first time we become acutely aware of two things; just how much we can possibly love another human being, and the enormity of the responsibility ahead of us. Our children are a miracle we give to the world; there is no other word to describe giving birth. We love and nurture them as they grow and try to not only see our hopes and dreams for them fulfilled but also hope they achieve their dreams. Mothers are not perfect. We are human after all, and we will...

Today is a typical April day in New England; gray, rainy and cool. It's the kind of day that would make it easy to stay in bed covered by not only warm blankets, but also gloomy thoughts. There are those who may look forward to giving in to the rainy, dreary day as if it's a chance to escape from the world for a while. Many of us, however, prefer to look at these April showers in a more positive light. Instead of letting them surround us with a melancholy mood we choose to see what they will soon bring. The trees that have been barren all winter are sprouting buds that will suddenly burst into green leaves. The transformation always seems to happen overnight as we sleep, and the sight is as refreshing as a breeze gently blowing across our face. Birds that have returned to nest for the season reap the benefits of April showers. They provide puddles for drinking and a quick bath and will bring worms and bugs closer to the ground's surface for the birds to feast upon. Watching...

Tomatoes, basil and mozzarella are a great combination in any recipe. From Weelicious, this quiche is rich, delicious and easy to make. You can make it in advance and warm it before serving. Sure to be a hit with your family or brunch guests. It received a big thumbs up from my Italian man! Caprese Quiche 6 large eggs 3/4 cup whole milk 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup packed basil, thinly sliced (I used 1/2 cup and it was plenty) 1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 unbaked pie crust (you can make your own or use a refrigerated pie crust) 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Place the dough into a pie or tart pan and mold into the shape of the dish. Place the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes to chill. 3. Line the crust with parchment paper and pie weights or dried beans and bake for 15 minutes. 4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk and mozzarella cheese. Gently fold in the basil and cherry tomatoes. 5. Pour the filling into the partially baked pie crust a...

 The good ole' boy network, boys will be boys, or whatever terminology they want to use, it's apparent that once again women are being disparaged and dismissed. Mocked by men in power as ones who should not be believed, and even worse, in the same breath excusing or defending the men who have been the abusers. For every step that has been taken forward, in the end so much remains the same. I wonder at times what it's going to take for this behavior to be unacceptable; not only to men, but also the women who have not believed what their sisters have gone through.  W hen men came out after many years to say they were abused by priests nobody questioned whether it happened, or why they didn't say something years ago. So why is disbelief the first reaction people have when a woman comes out to say she was sexually assaulted in the past? Their abuse was just as traumatic, and as difficult to talk about; plus, the fear of what they would endure if they reported the assault at...