On My Mind Today

 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 ou...

Recently it seems to have been more difficult to find faith in many aspects of my life. Life changes, among other things, have left me with little energy to stay the course and believe all will work out as it should. This led me to visit my Faith Box to take stock of the worries I placed in there, and to see what should remain. A few have been resolved; however, I left them there for good measure. Others are still in need of resolution. A few new ones have been added today.  This seemed like a good time to once again share this blog about the Faith Box. Perhaps it will help some of you with your own struggles and hopefully will lead me back to finding faith once again. Each one of us have burdens we carry with us every day. Most people shoulder them well and live their daily life so that others would never suspect what they might be burdened with. Regardless of what we carry with us; we all do the best we can to persevere and push through to better days. Often, we spend too much ti...

Now that fall has arrived, we all turn to our collection of soups and stews for the cooler days. This one has a wonderful combination of flavors and is a hearty meal to warm you on a cold evening. From the kitchen of Woman's Day this will become one of your favorite comfort foods. Pork and Cider Stew 2 medium Sweet Potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces 3 small Parsnips or Carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices 1 cup chopped Onion 2 lb. boneless Pork Shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and coarsely chopped 1/4 cup Flour 3/4 teaspoon Salt 1/2 teaspoon each dried Sage and Thyme 1/4 teaspoon Pepper 1 cup Apple Cider 1. Layer sweet potatoes, parsnips (or carrots), onion, pork and apple in a 3-quart slow cooker. 2. Stir flour, salt, sage, thyme and pepper in a small bowl to mix. Add cider; stir until smooth. Pour over meat and vegetables. 3. Cover and cook on low 7 to 9 hours or until pork and sweet potatoes are tender when pierc...

I may not call as often as I used to, and my messages are not as frequent. Don't fret and wonder as to why, as I have not forgotten you. Life is not what I imagined as I entered this stage of life. The dreams of carefree days filled with fun are not as common as I had hoped. Sometimes it is hard to explain the things that are faced each day. Although they may be small at this time, the worry is not felt less. Many days seem to be long, and it is enough just keeping up. When the evening arises with time to relax, silence seems to be a best friend. I do think of you often, and treasure memories of time spent together. However, no matter how good my intentions, there are times that sleepy eyes stop a call. Know in your heart that I think of you, and cherish our time and conversations. One day when you least expect it your phone will ring, as I have not forgotten you. 

Looking out over the lake today with bright blue skies and a light breeze sending ripples across the water, there is a hint of what's to come in the next several weeks. The trees still have colorful leaves, but the temperatures have been cooler, and many of the birds have taken their journey to warmer climates with only a few brave ones remaining. We have a pair of Loons and a duck gracing us with their presence. They take turns sitting on buoys near the docks. A Loon will sit for a while, and when the duck approaches it will raise its wings to move the duck back. Eventually the duck will jump up on the buoy, and the Loon will give in and float on the water for a bit, allowing the duck to get out of the cold water. Living in harmony yet both knowing who is in charge of the buoy. The sky looks different, there is a change in the way the air feels, and your senses know what's to come. The aroma of fall with leaves starting to fall to the ground and the breeze brin...

From Taste of Home contributor, Karen Howard, Lakeville, MA, this cheesy and tangy quiche is sure to be a hit at your next brunch. It is easy to prepare and ready in about an hour. Her tip to spread mustard on the bottom of the crust adds another layer of flavor. I used Dijon mustard and it was great! Zucchini Quiche Dough for single crust pie 3 tablespoons butter 4 cups thinly sliced zucchini (about 3 medium) 1 large onion, thinly sliced 2 large eggs, room temperature 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 cups shredded mozzarella 2 teaspoons prepared mustard (I used Dijon mustard) Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a lightly floured surface roll dough to a 1/8" thick circle; transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim crust to 1/2 inch beyond rim of plate; flute edge. Refrigerate while preparing filling. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add zucchini and onion; ...

Once again, the fall season has arrived, and we anxiously await colorful leaves. As the show slowly begins before our eyes, Mother Naure may have other things in store. A storm is brewing along the shore, a Nor'easter is what they claim. Very strong winds and heavy rain, can bring destruction along its path. Many wait anxiously for what's to come, not knowing the impact they will endure. But, if our eyes are open to Mother Naure's show, there is much beauty for us to embrace. Colorful leaves and calm waters on lakes, the sky with billowing clouds like cotton. As the evening begins and the sun starts to set, brilliant blue, pink and gold color the sky. The calm before the storm is what we call it, brining spectacular beauty before our eyes. If we glance away for even a few seconds, it will turn abruptly to evening darkness. Next time a fall storm is coming up the coast, take some time to stop and look around. The beauty of Mother Nature may surprise you, in the calm before t...

Socializing and sharing our lives with others is a wonderful thing. What we receive in these interactions is many times far more than what we give. The knowledge and insights gained from our social "dances" make us more well rounded, interesting people. There is also something to be said for solitude - spending time with ourselves so to speak. Enveloping ourselves in silence gives our mind the time to slow down and sort through the many things that have gathered there during our typical noisy days. In the time we spend alone, we can learn to like who we are and find out that we truly enjoy time with this person we have become. We can find peace in our souls and maybe discover the path our life should be on. The more we learn about "us", the more we have to offer others. After the calm of the silence, we will find that we are more open to the world around us. Ready to take in new people and experiences again - to grow and learn. Also ready to give of ourselves once m...

Several years ago, I found some healthier options for desserts made with pumpkin in First for Women magazine. They cited some facts regarding the benefits of pumpkin: It prolongs satiety - one cup of pumpkin contains only 83 calories but has 8 grams of fiber which is almost a third of your daily need. Per a USDA study, people who increased their intake of this filling nutrient decreased their overall calorie intake by 10%. It balances blood sugar - Pumpkin is rich in beta-cryptoxanthin, which reduces the risk of insulin resistance by 51% (per Japanese scientists). This makes pumpkin a great way to prevent fatigue, belly fat and cravings that can come from insulin resistance. Half a cup of pumpkin contains 100% of the RDA of vitamin A, which revs the body's production of sickness-fighting T cells. Plus, once ingested, the squash's alpha-carotene converts to retinol, which spurs skin-cell renewal and collagen production. Here are some great new ways to make your favorite desserts...

Seems like only a few short days ago that we welcomed summer with such joy after a long winter and cold spring. Ready for all the fun activities on the lake and at the ocean; so many days ahead to enjoy the heat of the sun on our cold weary bodies. Even though we think that we never want those hot summer days to end, we always seem to be ready for a change when they do. So here we are again entering fall; my favorite time of year with the warm sunny days and cool nights. A time when open windows allow the fresh crisp air to flow through and clear out the staleness from a long hot summer with a closed home and A/C running. Nights of sound and restful sleep as we snuggle under covers with the cool night air. The leaves will soon be changing to show off their brilliant colors. The apples are ready for delicious homemade pies and fall flowers will begin to grace the doorsteps on many homes. With the cooler days we will start to prepare our comfort foods that have been set aside during the ...

My mother once told me, "the more you do, the more people expect you to do". Wise words, and they apply to both our personal life and work life. I have always believed in working hard, doing the best job I can do and, in most cases, going above and beyond what was expected. Most of the time this effort is appreciated, however there are instances where I have been taken advantage of. Some people are more than willing to let you do not only your own work, but theirs too. I enjoy helping others both at home, and at work before I retired. When doing for someone else it gives me a feeling of satisfaction knowing that I have helped another person. Their thanks and appreciation are all I need; I'm not looking for grand gestures on their part or public acknowledgement for what I have done. The most difficult thing for those who give their time and energy to others is the knowledge that some will easily take advantage of them. These people have learned over time that if they wait ...

  "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 migration ca...

From Taste of Home contributor, Janet McCormick of Proctorville, Ohio, this rich and tasty dish is a blend of all the Tex-Mex dishes molded into one casserole. The simplicity of it makes it a great choice for nights when time is short as it is ready in only half an hour. Add a side salad for a complete meal. Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken 1 cup sour cream 1-1/2 cups salsa verde, divided 8 corn (or flour) tortillas (6 inches) 2 cups chopped tomatoes 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro (or 1 tablespoon dried) 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese Optional toppings: Avocado slices, thinly sliced green onions or fresh cilantro leaves In a small bowl, combine the chicken, sour cream and 3/4 cup salsa. Spread 1/4 cup salsa on the bottom of a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Layer with half of the tortillas and chicken mixture; sprinkle with half the tomatoes, minced cilantro and half of the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, tomatoes ...

September has arrived and with it my favorite time of year in New England. In a few short weeks fall will arrive, but for now I will enjoy the bright, warm sunny days of September and the cool nights. Still a hint of summer with a preview of what's to come. I don't think there is anything more beautiful than New England in the fall. As the days grow shorter, we awaken each day to see the color on the trees grow more and more vibrant. Eventually the colors explode on the mountains and hillsides to the most breathtaking views you will ever see. I have watched this for more years than I care to admit, but I am still in awe each year when I see what Mother Nature has provided. The cool nights provide for great sleeping after the hot summer days. Leaving the windows open to enjoy the smells of fall; snuggling deep under the covers as the cool, crisp air slips in. Puts you into a nice deep sleep that you want to stay in for as long as possible. Swimming and boating on the lake are sl...

Today, another year has passed, and all I can think of is how fast it has gone. When I started this blog in 2012, I could not imagine that I would still be writing it fourteen years later. I guess it has become a way to escape, and to share the joy, sadness, and thoughts on life and events that have occurred along the way. When I look at my grandchildren, I am quickly reminded how many years have passed; it seems like only yesterday that they were young children, and now all of them are young adults. So many wonderful memories have been made along the way, and I hope that these memories will stay with them and bring a smile to their face in the years to come. There have been many wonderful vacations, and I have seen things that I never thought I would. Some places have been closer to home than others, but all were wonderful adventures. The trips to England and Scotland, and later to Austria, Italy and Sicily opened my eyes to a part of the world filled with ancient history. We enjoyed ...

There is nothing better on a cool morning than a nice hot bowl of oatmeal. Even as a child I liked oatmeal - especially when it was topped with brown sugar or raisins. This recipe makes having "real" oatmeal easy since it is cooked overnight in a slow cooker. Great for all those busy working mothers who want to give their children a good start to their day. Overnight Oatmeal   Vegetable shortening. for the slow cooker 1 cup whole milk, plus more for serving 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup steel-cut oats 2 apples peeled, cored and cut into 1-inch pieces 7 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces Toppings such as almonds, pecans, chocolate chips, maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, dried cranberries, fresh berries or your child's favorite toppings, for serving   1. Generously grease a 5–6-quart slow cooker with the shortening.   2. Add the milk, sugar, vanilla, salt and 4 cups water. Gently stir in the oats, apples and butter. Cook...

Although it is not always a perfect life, it has been filled with love, hopes and dreams. Places we have gone and things we have seen, forever memories that can be recalled. Years go by giving time no thought, with so much in our future to do. We take for granted the life we have, never imagining what road lies ahead. One day things begin to slowly change, a memory lapse from time to time. Written off as not paying attention, or listening to what has been said. As time passes it is too much to ignore, and a search for an answer ensues. The words they speak too difficult to absorb, will overwhelm and take your breath away. Far too young for this to be true, disbelief at what you have been told. The only thing that can be done, is to try and slow it down. The long goodbye they call it, you have no understanding of what this means. The journey you are about to embark on, is far more than you could ever surmise. At first the changes are minor, everyday life remains much the same. We go and...

Sirius, the Dog Star, has risen with the sun, bringing July's hot, sultry, summer days. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed these times, could drive dogs and men mad from the heat. The Dog Days of Summer bring to mind, extreme heat with air like pea soup. Some days it is almost impossible, to find the energy to get up and move. Children seem to be impervious to this heat, running and jumping without a care. Give them the ocean, a lake or pool, and they can withstand the sun all day. Dogs and cats will spend their time, lounging for most of the day. Give them a beautiful, shaded spot, and this is where they will choose to remain. With age we become wiser and slower, taking our time to accomplish one thing. Moving too quickly in this extreme heat, will only exhaust us far too soon. July and August will bring much more heat, and will test our endurance and spirit. If we just take our time and slow down a bit, the Dog Days of Summer will not drive us mad.

From Jamielyn Nye at https://www.iheartnaptime.net , this recipe for homemade crunch bars could not be any easier. Made with only 3 ingredients, they can be ready within 30 minutes. With the crispy chocolate and peanut butter taste that you love, they are sure to be a big hit with you family. Homemade Crunch Bars 1-1/2 cups chocolate chips 1/3 cup peanut butter 1 cup Rice Krispies flaked sea salt, optional Line an 8x8 square baking dish with parchment paper. Place 1-1/2 cups chocolate chips and 1/3 cup peanut butter in a medium sized microwave-safe bowl. Melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. When the chocolate is smooth and melted, add 1 cup Rice Krispies and stir well. Spread into prepared baking dish, dust with flaked sea salt if desired. Freeze for 15-20 minutes. Cut into 8 bars. Place in a freezer safe container and store in the freezer until ready to serve.

As I get older it's the small things that bring me joy. With warmer weather I am truly enjoying the awakening of nature with her beauty and sounds. Early in the morning, or lying in bed at night, listening to the haunting call of my Loons is something I wait all winter to hear. If you have never had the opportunity to hear this, there is nothing else like it and it reaches deep into the soul. Being fortunate enough to watch a Bald Eagle fly over the lake from time to time - so beautiful and majestic. We are not sure where they are nesting but feel blessed to have them on our lake. On an early morning walk the only sights and sounds are those of nature. Out on the lake you might see one boat in the deeper waters with a lone fisherman enjoying his solitude. The lake's only sound is that of the gentle waves as they come up against the shore. The birds are all awake and you can hear their chatter as they start their day. Even if you don't know one bird's song from another t...