EVENTS

I vividly remember three events that marked me for life. When I was just a three year old toddler my family and I were at Jones Beach on Long Island.  We were at the edge of the sandy beach near the waters edge when a huge wave with an under tow pulled me under; gasping for breath my Dad saved me.  But, it took the joy out of swimming in the ocean and to this day (when I am willing to put this aging body in a bathing suit) I much prefer swimming pools. There are no sharks or other nasty things lurking in the deep and no under tow.


When I was about five or so I had my tonsils removed. It is still so real to me! Those were the days when ether was used as an anesthesia. This black thing came down and covered my nose and mouth. To this day I can't stand to have my nose and mouth covered. Yes, radiation treatment was a trial. Also it made future attempts at scuba diving or snorkeling  definitely out of the question.  Leland is a qualified scuba diver but fortunately he too is not a beach lover. When the dental hygienist cleans my teeth I won't even let her put that covering over my face. So what that the spray ruins my make-up! I can re-apply! Isn't it strange how we are effected by what took place in our earlier days. We are all products of our environments and our genetics.


When I was ten I went to bed sucking on a Werthers butterscotch candy. I accidentally swallowed it and it got stuck in my windpipe.  Terrified and unable to catch my breath I ran to my Dad.  At that time the heimlich procedure was unknown.  Daddy turned me upside down and held me by my feet and tapped on my back. That culprit came flying out and all was well. I think you know me by now - eating candy in bed is a big no-no.  As you can tell, my Dad was my hero and such a wonderful role model. All of the family remember him for being a wonderful Husband, Dad, Grandfather, Uncle and Brother. With a great deal of patience he taught all of the children to play chess. I miss you, Daddy. We all miss you. Tomorrow will be the 31st anniversary of his death. But that date is also to be celebrated as the first anniversary of my Nephew, Justin and his Wife, Kristen. Happy Anniversary, Dear Ones. Grandpa would be thrilled for you!


But just as I bare the scars from those three  experiences I too recall so many happy memories. I remember Mom and Dad taking my Sister and I to Washington, D. C. and as a family seeing the sights and visiting the Smithsonian. How very fascinating! I also loved going to Williamsburg on more than one occasion. I related to those days and fantasized about the idea of living in those times. Except of course, for the lack of decent plumbing and good dental care that style of home and gardening is so appealing. The furniture and porcelain is "right up my alley". The multitude of conversations that took place in one of these homes would have been so intellectually stimulating and informative concerning the course of history. I hope that school books stay true to the actual history of our country and the government obeys THE CONSTITUTION. Our founding fathers knew what they were doing!!


I am making a New Year's resolution for the first time in years (other than watching my diet) and that is, God willing, to be more active in helping others. Micki and I hope to help out at our local hospice. And, I want to be more aware of people in our community who would love to just sit down with a cup of tea and have a little chat. It is the very least I can do with all the wonderful support I have gotten this past year. And, it doesn't take much time to send a get well card or to deliver a meal for a house bound neighbor.

BREAD PUDDING WITH BOURBON SAUCE
One loaf french bread torn into bits and pieces
One quart whole milk
Four eggs, well beaten
Two cups sugar
Two tablespoons vanilla extract
One teaspoon almond extract
Three tablespoons butter
3/4 cup raisins
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Combine milk with eggs, vanilla, sugar, almond extract and nutmeg. combine bread with mixture. Saturate well. Melt butter in a heavy rectangle dish. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until center is firm. Cut into individual servings and serve warm or hot with bourbon sauce.

Bourbon Sauce
One stick butter
One cup sugar
One egg, well beaten
1/4 cup bourbon
Heat butter and sugar in a double boiler until sugar is dissolved and mixture is very hot. Remove from heat. Add egg and whisk very fast so egg does not scramble. Add bourbon. Let cool. Pour over individual servings of bread pudding. Serves 10-12.

To each and every reader I wish you a Happy and Healthy 2014.

TILL NEXT YEAR

Christmas is over, our guests have departed and I am ready to defrock the house. Nay says my beloved Husband who has trimmed our house to the hilt. His marvelous display is the talk of the neighborhood and rightfully so. It looks beautiful! Our massive Christmas tree takes up a lot of room and is a daily reminder that I am in charge of putting all the decorations away. Oh well, it will all get done eventually before Andrea and our Grandson, Nicholas arrive and Laura and Joe return so we can all celebrate Laura's 30th birthday.

I incorporated a lot of my blog recipes in our holiday celebration: shrimp and artichoke casserole served with basmati rice,  peach crunch, dump cake and for brunch the english breakfast of yorkshire pudding over Joneses link sausage. They were all winners! I made a pork roast with herbes de provence, garlic powder, fresh sage and rosemary surrounded by roasted potatoes and onions. I served this with zucchini patties. The condiments were apple sauce, ligonberry spread for the pork and sour cream for the patties. All of the above were quick and easy to prepare. My kind of recipes!

A Christmas Eve tradition was fulfilled when Leland read "The Night Before Christmas" to Jennifer and Laura. Our Christmas was peaceful and joyful. All of us went to see the new Walt Disney movie, "FROZEN" on Christmas Eve day and we all loved it.  If you get a chance please see it. It truly is for the young AND old.

I am happy to report that everyone loved their gifts so there will be no returns. Thanks to Laura and Kate I got some fabulous new cookbooks which I will enjoy reading and marking down recipes I just might like to try. Laura and Joe left around two pm so they were then able to spend the remainder of Christmas Day with Joe's family. They are all looking forward to their upcoming trip to Hawaii. Aloha!

Unfortunately we did receive some sad news. Our dear friend, John Rutherford passed away Christmas night surrounded by his family. Please keep Mary (my kindergarten friend) and her family in your prayers. Mary and John were married for fifty-four blissful years. Stay strong dear Mary and my Sister and I will see you in the spring.

Now, of course, 2014 is fast approaching and needless to say Leland and I wish all of you good health and happiness in the New Year. We personally look forward to seeing more family (June and John you are indeed included in that definition) and hopefully from a personal standpoint, a status quo report for me. And, wouldn't it be wonderful to turn on the news and see good things happening.

I am currently reading: "KING AND MAXWELL" by David Baldacci. He is one of my favorite authors.

CHEWY PEANUT BUTTER BARS
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 - 1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
In a large saucepan, melt the butter and peanut butter. Remove from the heat; add sugar and flour. Stir in the eggs and vanilla. Spread into a greased 13 inch by 9 inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 28-32 minutes until lightly browned and edges start to pull away from sides of the pan. Yield: 2 dozen.
Great to make and/or serve to your grandchildren!

I looking forward to writing to you in the New Year. Leland and I intend to stay home and if we can stay awake watch the ball drop in Times Square.

NAUGHTY!

I have been so very naughty! The doctor told  me that my glucose is high and I should cut down on sweets. Well guess what, I misinterpreted and have been eating every sweet in sight. As fast as I bought solid chocolate foil wrapped Santa Clauses' I methodically ate each and every one of them. This required another trip to the store to replace them. I made almond brittle (see a previous blog) and managed to consume giant portions of that. Fortunately I didn't chip a tooth. I have become a sweet addict and I am so angry at myself for my total lack of willpower. This has got to stop!! Thank goodness I didn't bake all those cookies etc. that were on my original agenda. As it is, I have gone up a size and am miserable about it. So goes the holiday so far. Bah Humbug!!

Happily, Laura and Joe arrive tomorrow so hopefully they will be a distraction and I won't concentrate on sweets so much. I rationalize that I will start the new year off right and eat properly again. I hope it is not wishful thinking on my part. We have attended two holiday parties so far and at each one I zeroed in on the desserts. I am really bad! I hope y'all have more control than I do.

We are slowly getting Christmas cards. I think because Thanksgiving was late we all got behind schedule in getting our cards out. The only thing I am not behind in, is eating sweets. The doctor is going to be a tad upset with my next glucose test if I don't get myself under control. Speaking of cards, it has been so nice to receive our annual updates from friends and family who live far away. I enjoy seeing photos of our friends and their ever growing families. I knew some of their children as babies and now they are all grown up with babies of their own. Time marches on!

Tomorrow we will finalize our grocery shopping and get last minute items. I am not in a shopping (just eating) frenzy as we are pretty much done. My intention is to just have a good time visiting with some of our family and to take cooking etc. in my stride. Laura, Joe, Jennifer and Bud can do their own thing and we will just enjoy being in one another's company. That is what family is all about. I will do my very best to put Jan 15th (MRI) out of my mind and just concentrate on having a beautiful Christmas. That, of course, is my wish for each and every one of you. Stay well, family and friends and count your  blessings. Love to all, Arlene

Other than calling this a dump cake it lacks a recipe title but here goes. Thanks dear friend Pat for this lower calorie dessert.

One can crushed pineapple
One box angel food cake
Mix together in an ungreased pan and cook until a little golden at 350 degrees. It really is delicious and my goodness it is so easy and fast to put together.

Don't forget to leave cookies and milk for Santa and carrots for his reindeer. Leland will  be Santa and I will be a reindeer!

NOEL

This is probably the most relaxing Christmas ever. I had all good intentions of being sophisticated and creative (remember my intention of going international?) in my gift selections. Well, I was reduced to taking the easy way out and getting gift cards. I did purchase some lovely stocking stuffers and some wee surprises. I rationalized that they are very practical gifts and easily sent by mail. I remember the days of yore (really not that long ago) when one year I crocheted ponchos for all the girls and another year when I needlepointed footstools for each and every one. One year I bought colored duffle bags (green, purple etc) and colored coordinated everything and packed the items in the duffle bags - what was I thinking? I made necklaces and bracelets one holiday. And, of course, there were the cookbook journals that I hand wrote. These gift were always accompanied by some lovely non-crafty surprises. Those were my crafty days, long since gone.

As a child in Mt Vernon, N.Y. many of us, young and old would go to a vacant lot and sing Christmas carols on Christmas Eve.  An annual and very cold event. We had a marvelous time despite the weather and ended up drinking hot chocolate at someone's home. We would also go ice skating on the local frozen pond and sledding down Hillcrest Road during the winter months. What a fun and innocent childhood we had. I vividly remember my Mom always fussing over a gift for the school bus driver, Mr. Weber. He was the nicest man and my Mother gave him gifts every holiday because she was thankful to him for keeping her daughter safe and sound. I remember my physical ed teacher, Mrs. Swan who built up my confidence even though I could never do the rope climbing. I remember being the drum majorette in sixth grade at Lincoln School. I felt ever so proud! I could go on and on but what I am trying to say in a very round-about way is that it was a time when there were no drugs, peer pressure and no distinction between the have and the have nots.  If these existed I wasn't aware of them - thank goodness.

I remember going to a girl scout camp when I was around ten years old and thoroughly enjoying it even though it was my first time being away from home. I later became a camp counselor and loved every minute of it. Looking back,  because of this blog is such fun. I am remembering things I thought I had forgotten. Mostly, I want my children to know that growing up decades ago was far different than now. I am not saying it was better but I am saying it was different.

Leland was a "soda jerk" ( what a terrible description) at the local drugstore. Because I had such a massive crush on him, I would sashay a mile up the street walking parallel to the stream on Hutchinson Blvd to get an ice cream. It's a wonder I didn't put on a lot of weight. Of course, the walk, to and fro helped. My traditional order was a scoop of coffee ice cream with either caramel or marshmallow sauce on top - absolutely yummy! An ice cream cone made with Breyers was ten cents. Those were the days. Leland and I are both ice cream lovers so we try not to buy it any longer because we have absolutely no willpower, whatsoever, when it comes to hot fudge sundaes etc.

MARY RUTHERFORD'S SAUSAGE DIP

One package Jimmy Dean sausage with sage
One 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
One can 10 ounce Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis
Brown and drain sausage. Mix all and bake at 350 until hot. Serve with "Scoops" Fabulous!

CHAMPAGNE PUNCH

One (12 ounce) frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
One (12 ounce) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
One (12 ounce) frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
One (2 liter) gingerale chilled
One (2 liter) champagne
Mix juice concentrate in punch bowl (do not add water)
Stir in gingerale then add champagne (DO NOT STIR AFTER ADDING)

Add fruit ring. Note: Gingerale and champagne must be equal
Easy and delicious!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS  AND LOVE TO ALL!

BETTER HALF

This is a short post today as I am trying to get my Christmas cards done. The house is decorated and the menu is finalized (I think) so once the cards are done maybe I can relax and enjoy the season and my latest new book by Ann Purser,  We are so excited to be joined by Jennifer and Bud, Laura and Joe this Christmas. What fun!

I just want to tell you how truly blessed I feel to be surrounded by so much love. Our family and friends have been absolutely marvelous these many months. But, the one steadfast person in my life, is my wonderful Husband, Leland.  I could not have gotten through the surgery, radiation treatments and all the doctors' appointments that  having a brain tumor has entailed, without him.  Every morning at 8:30 am Leland wakes me and hands me a glass of water along with my required pills, with a big smile on his face.  If I need to go somewhere he takes me without complaint. He comforts me when I feel a tad blue and he still tells me how lovely I look. When I came home from surgery he attended to my head which was filled with staples, helped bath me and did all the necessary things to make my life easier. He is without a doubt the BEST. I hope all of the children realize what a VERY special person their Father is. I just bet they do!

I feel badly for people who do not have that special person in their life to make being ill, just a bit easier. Honestly, none of us know what is in store for us and perhaps we are better off not knowing. I am learning to live each day finding enjoyment in something. That doesn't mean everything is wonderful but it does mean that I have so very much to be thankful for.  For the most part I am the happiest sitting side by side with Leland, reading, watching television or as we are doing now, writing Christmas cards. Our wonderful black German shepherd, Reagan is lying on the floor at Leland's feet. That's true contentment! And just as special is the time we spend with our friends who always make me laugh, or they just take the time to listen, even when they too are trying to cope with the ups and downs of life. Thank you!

Let's all take a breather from this hectic time, to collect ourselves but mostly to be thankful for all our blessings and remember the real meaning of Christmas. Love to each and every one of you, Arlene

I just made this recipe today to tuck in Christmas tins as a little house gift. It comes from David Rocco's Dolce Vita cookbook.

ALMOND BRITTLE

3 CUPS SUGAR
UP TO 1/2 WATER (optional but I did use water)
4 CUPS ALMONDS (I bought the large bags at Costco)

Heat up your pot over high heat and add the sugar. Keep stirring You will see that it begins to sweat and liquefy. Add a bit of water if you think it needs help. Keep cooking and stirring until the sugar is completely liquefied and turns a rich deep brown. Now in go the almonds. Mix really well to make sure they are fully coated. Cook it all together in the pot for a few minutes, stirring constantly so it doesn't stick, until the almonds are toasted. Remove the pot from the heat and working quickly, pour the hot almond mixture onto a cookie sheet to the desired thickness. Let it cool about a half hour, then break it up into smaller pieces.

SHARING

When we went to Bethlehem and viewed the manger where Jesus was born and waded in the Jordan River in Israel I felt a real connection to the true meaning of Christmas. But, mostly I think that it is so important to be aware that there are children in our very own communities that won't be visited by Santa. Instead of a huge smile on Christmas morning there will be little ones with disappointment on their faces and tears in their eyes.  It is to those children that we should reach out. We want their Christmas to be special and memorable due to the thoughtfulness and generosity of others.

Terry McCarthy, a friend and neighbor organizes and delivers to the local firehouse on Carolene Way, Cumming, GA unwrapped toys every year.  All the local fire departments are set up to receive toys for the local children.  She and her Husband Don, a meal on wheels and hospital volunteer give freely of themselves so other lives are improved. They exemplify the meaning of volunteerism. They have hearts of gold!  Today was our holiday luncheon with sixty- six of us in attendance. We each brought a gift (s) so that, hopefully, we can make a little ones Christmas joyful, merry and one to remember. It is not too late to contribute. One of our favorite charities is The Salvation Army. They truly see to the needs of others. Many volunteers stand out in the cold in front of stores looking for donations. Every bit helps. 

If I could wish for anything, I would wish for peace on earth and happiness and good health for all. The world would be so much better if we could accept one another, faults and all. None of us are perfect but most of us do the best we can. For myself I have decided I will try and do much more for my fellow human beings, God willing. I truly have so many blessings that I am thankful for and I look forward to a future where I think less about myself, my trials and tribulations and more about my fellow travelers  in life. One can only hope that little by little charity becomes second nature; giving and sharing a natural instinct. We can do it! I have in faith in ALL of us!  Love to all, Arlene

PAVLOVA an Australian dessert

4 egg whites at room temperature

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon white vinegar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 tablespoon cornstarch

Filling:

Heavy cream whipped or ice cream

Fresh fruit in season

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Beat egg whites until they begin to hold their shape. Gradually add sugar, beating constantly, until egg whites are thick and glossy. Fold in vinegar, vanilla and cornstarch. Mound meringue on a cookie sheet in a circle, indenting with the back of a spoon, making it bowl shaped. Bake for 1 1/2 hours at 250 degrees, turn off oven and allow meringue to dry out in cooling oven. Place meringue on a serving plate and fill with whipped cream (my preference). Top with fresh fruit (raspberries, kiwis etc.) Very elegant presentation.

FIRST CLASS

In April 1957 Leland entered the Air Force and spent ten years serving his country. He finished pilot training in June 1958. During his career he served in Vietnam. I am very proud that he received eight air medals and the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). In April of 1967 Leland started his civilian career with Pan American World Airways, as a pilot. So now I come to the gist of this blog. On numerous occasions we were able to upgrade to first class for a paltry sum of $25.00 if there were seats available. It was an elegant way to travel and we luxuriated in the roomy reclining seats with lovely flight attendants catering to our needs. "Soup to nuts" was epitomized in the fine dining aboard. Among the appetizer course were caviar, salmon and ice cold vodka. A variety of cocktails, champagne and wine were always available. The entree menu was a varied selection of delicious items served on fine china made for Pan Am.  All in all, it was a wonderful experience and it made international traveling an event rather than a chore. Sadly, Pan Am folded in September of 1991. A very SAD day!  Fortunately, Leland transitioned over to Delta but Pan Am captured our hearts.

It has been many, many years since we have had the pleasure of flying first class. Now our biggest decision to make is whether we want peanuts or pretzels. We are squeezed into the narrow seats and dread having the middle seat.  If we want something substantial to eat we purchase it before boarding.  Needless to say, Pan Am spoiled me with its elegance. I can even remember in the early eighties that the back of the plane held the smokers. Thankfully, we are now able to fly smoke free. At this time of our lives we have had so many difficulties going stand-by that we purchase tickets to assure that we can get to our destination. I know, you are not feeling terribly sorry for us and rightfully so.

I will tell you a little story: When Leland was with Pan Am he had a temporary assignment to fly out of Bangkok, Thailand.  He and I sat in economy with Laura lying on the floor at our feet (no first class on this trip) because the plane was full and there was not another seat to be had.  It took us thirty hours with stopping to arrive. We were zombies! I had packed a green duffle bag in my suitcase on the off chance (who am I kidding!) that I might make some purchases. Remember the Louis Vuitton exchange between the seller and me? Well, we were at the baggage carousel waiting for our luggage to appear. It went round and round enumerable times and the only item left was a green duffle bag. My suitcase had fallen off the truck and been run over. They scrambled to pick my stuff up and shoved everything into the duffle. All my clothes had tire tracks on them. We were too exhausted to care. And, it all cleaned up and we had a marvelous time there. But, I was minus a suitcase and had to purchase one - a BIG one!

GERMAN BEEF STEW

1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1 inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
l large tart apple, peeled and shredded
1 medium carrot, shredded
1/2 medium onion, sliced
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup dry red wine
1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste
l clove garlic, minced
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 small bay leaf
1/8 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
4 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water

Brown meat in oil. Add apple, carrot, onion, water, wine anchovy paste, garlic, bouillon cubes, bay leaf and thyme. Cover and cook over low heat for 2 hours or until beef is tender. Remove bay leaf. Combine cornstarch and cold water, add to beef mixture. Cook and stir until thickened.

The above is the second meal that I cooked for Leland and we shared this meal with childhood friends. The recipe again comes from San Francisco Ala Carte. Enjoy served with mashed potatoes or noodles.

The Christmas program was wonderful and uplifting.

PLUM BLOSSOM CHICKEN

On September 19, 1982 I locked my cottage door, hopped in my little Subaru and headed south to the JFK Airport to pick up a gentleman I hadn't seen in many years. We had, of course, spoken on the telephone and had arranged to meet. I was all dressed up in my finest! I was, however, very nervous about the upcoming reunion with Leland T. Larson. Leland gave me explicit instructions to locate him at the lower level of the Pan Am building. I didn't know whether I would recognize him or even worse, if he would  recognize me. My heart was beating so hard when I parked the car and waited. Then, lo and behold, Leland came strolling out of the building, handsome as ever, saw me, came over and gave me a big hug. All was well! We fell into our easy friendship and the conversation flowed so easily and naturally. I didn't take long to fall madly in love when I discovered what a kind, thoughtful and decent man Leland was and, of course, still is.

I had told my Parents' that Leland was visiting and they too were excited to see him after all these many years. They remembered him as a child and then as a young adult.  It was a marvelous weekend!  We also visited with childhood friends, Waldine and Pete Peckham and Tony Donati.  Daddy would pass away in December but he knew that I was happy and that all would be well. Leland was so kind to my Parents' and spent a lot of time visiting with them on his future visits.  He was concerned about Dad, of course, and was so glad to have the chance to see him once again.

 I married the "love of my life" on March 5, 1983. I hope Daddy knows how truly happy I have been for the past thirty years and that he now has a wonderful Granddaughter, Laura Wood Larson, who along with his three Grandsons' would make him very proud.

I can remember very vividly my Mother saying that "when one door closes another one opens". How right she was.  I got another chance at happiness and for that I am so grateful.

I am trying to work up enthusiasm to get our Christmas cards written. Right now it seems like such a tedious job. But, I do want to remember family and friends at this joyous time of year. Tomorrow is the Christmas program so I know that the songs etc. will put me in the Christmas spirit. Now if my poor arthritic plus carpal tunnel hands will cooperate! Woe is me - here I am whining again!

You are probably wondering about the weird title of this post. Well, the recipe for Plum Blossom Chicken is the very first meal I cooked for Leland during his initial visit. I found out later he is not a big fan of plums (among other fruits) but he managed to eat it all up. The recipe is from San Francisco Ala Carte, published in1979. There are numerous recipes in there that are winners. If you can find it on Amazon I guarantee you will enjoy many of the recipes. It is a Junior League of San Francisco cookbook. I also have the follow-up but the original is far superior.

PLUM BLOSSOM CHICKEN
Six large whole chicken halved
Two tablespoons butter
One teaspoon curry powder
1/2 cup plum jam
1/4 cup cream sherry
One lemon, thinly sliced

In heavy skillet, brown chicken pieces in butter, stir curry into pan juices. Blend plum jam and sherry and pour over chicken. Cover each piece with 1 to 2 pieces of lemon, cover skillet and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove chicken to heated serving platter and keep warm. Boil pan juices to reduce slightly, spoon over chicken and serve with rice. Bon Appetit!

I hope I can, among the hustle and bustle find the time to write another blog, but if not I wish one and all good health and much happiness in the forthcoming year. Much love, Arlene

Laura's Christmas Letter 2013

HELLO AGAIN!

Our weather of late has been misty and gloomy! Over the Thanksgiving holiday the Georgia mountains had snow! Normally I wouldn't mind a tiny bit of snow on Christmas day but Laura and Joe have to drive back to North Carolina later that day. Joe has to be back at work the next day and we are driving Jennifer and Bud to the airport on the 26th. Let me clarify that - Leland with me sitting in the passenger seat will be driving them to the airport! Yes, I miss not driving and the loss of independence. Boo hoo!

I thought my menu was intact for the holidays but I keep changing my mind. I continue pouring through cookbooks and I keep finding new ideas. All the baking I planned will not take place as I know I will end up eating the sweet stuff and now with high glucose all that good stuff is a no-no. Leland has lost ten pounds and is shunning sweets. Dear man that he is even brought a doggie bag home from the restaurant last night. I cleaned up my plate! If looks could kill! When am I going to reach that point when I bring home food? I keep telling myself that I look gaunt when I lose weight and  things start to sag even more so it's necessary to plump up a little. Whose kidding who!? At what age does one's stomach shrink? Certainly mine should have by now!

We went to an appetizer and wine party at a friends home and had such a good time and the decision was made to make this a monthly event. A marvelous idea! It is so nice to socialize with old friends.   Someone brought the most delicious Vidalia onion dip. I am including it here because I thought it was even better than the one I mentioned on an earlier blog. 

One Vidalia onion chopped

One cup mayo

One cup shredded fresh parmesan cheese

This recipe can be doubled or tripled simply by increasing each item

Mix all ingredients together pour into a pie plate and heat in oven for about 15 minutes or until bubbly.

We are going along with many other neighbors to the Redeemer Church to attend a Christmas program. It has become an annual event. I go loaded with tissues because some of the songs make me cry. This year will be especially poignant. Maybe I should just bring the box. This is the church where we go for weekly Wednesday night dinner with friends. The food is usually good but we mostly  enjoy dining with our friends. The guys sit at one round table and the women at another. The talk is lively and fun and the jokes flow. I know that sounds rather inappropriate but we do laugh a lot. I think the guys talk politics and sports and quite possibly tell a joke or two because I do hear them laughing.

Needless to say we are so excited that we have family coming for Christmas. Thanksgiving was rather lonely. Leland and I have bison burgers at Ted's Montana grill and then made the poor decision to hit the stores. As I said, lesson learned.

Greg is coming over for dinner tonight and to help his Dad connect this thing-a -m-giggy to our computer. Actually Leland bought a phonograph player so that he can then transfer his old big records to the computer. Sounds very high tech to me. Unfortunately, I am extremely technically challenged.

It is mid week already and the weekend is fast approaching. Stay cool, calm and collected - just like me! That's a big ha ha!

USA

Our weekend was uneventful and that is a good thing. With the holidays here for some of us and Christmas fast approaching our calendar is starting to fill up. Our "to do" and grocery lists are getting longer by the minute. I want to take a moment here to repeat my Mom's saying "do a little, sit a little". Believe me the diversion of reading, chatting with a friend or watching a little TV is a good thing. I find, at this age that I get what I call a "sinking spell" between three and four in the afternoon and have to have a lie down. Sometimes this happens during bridge but I find that I am not the only one yawning away.  I really am not a youngster any longer!

I remember many years ago, going to Durgin-Park restaurant in Boston. It was upstairs in an older building. I know at one point they had a fire and I truly don't know if they rebuilt. It was a boarding house style restaurant and the waitresses' were old and cantankerous, but that was part of the charm. Plus the food was delicious. I will include a recipe from there later. Boston, is one of those charming cities with lots of history and fine dining. I always enjoyed visiting there. Many years ago Filene's basement was located there. It was filled with bargains and on a daily basis it was a shopping haven for many. On the downside it didn't have any changing rooms so people tossed their inhibitions aside and tried on articles of clothing in the aisles.  I think that many a voyeur strolled through!

In San Francisco, Union Square was a popular shopping area. When we were there many years ago I found a cute little yellow dress at Saks Fifth Avenue. It was dearly priced but Leland bought it for me. I loved it! It is hanging in an  upstairs closet and much too small for me now (29 years later) but I would never part with it.  Shopping was not our only excursion; we loved eating at Fishermens' Wharf!

The Napa Valley in California is one of my most favorite places on earth. I have spent many lovely times there, sampling wine (now a BIG no-no), and just driving around the countryside. My Parents' were also enamored with the area. We also spent many hours touring Carmel, Monterey, etc. California has so much to offer in scenic beauty but unfortunately it has changed drastically in other ways and not for the better. But, the beauty is still there in all its glory.

In Billings, Montana at a little breakfast restaurant Leland and I each ate the biggest pancake we have ever seen! We marveled at  the bison in the South Dakota National Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse ( they were still carving him out of a mountain), the Grand Canyon, Santa Fe, Taos and other wonderful attractions in the west. It is a majestic country that we live in

The United States, folks, and all its grandeur is the best place on earth. Yellowstone Park is on our bucket list so hopefully we will go there one day. We have been privileged to see a great deal of this country (traveled the old Route 66 many moons ago) and we look forward to seeing more and storing up more memories.

I promised you a recipe from Durgin-Park so here it is:


INDIAN PUDDING
3 cups milk
1/4 cup black molasses
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon baking powder
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup yellow corn meal
vanilla ice cream

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees
Mix together 1 1/2 cups of the milk with the molasses, sugar, butter and baking powder, egg and cornmeal. Pour the mixture into a stone crock (or baking dish) that has been well greased and bake until it boils.
Heat the remaining 1 1/2 cup milk and stir it in.
Lower the temperature to 300 degrees and bake 5 to 7 hours.
Serve warm with scoops of vanilla ice cream on top.
It's truly a winner!

Catherine Coulter has a new book out called "THE FINAL CUT" It is the first in a new series.

EIGHT PM

Leland and I made the very big mistake of going to Walmart and Belks on Thanksgiving evening. Our first stop was at Walmart to get some additional garland for our tree. We stood in line in the garden center for a very long time. It was old home week for a lot of the people, greeting one another and catching up. I felt very skinny! And, I assure you, I am far from skinny. One couple told their "long lost friends" that the baby they had with them was their fifth child in a little over five years.  Their last name had to be Rabbit!  People were buying big TV's for $97.00 and toys etc. It was to say the least, a madhouse.  Sadly, the garland turned out to be the wrong one and had to be exchanged today. No problem! The store was not crowded, probably because the night owls were home sleeping.

We next, fools that we were, went to Belks to purchase a phonograph that Leland had his eye on. We arrived at 7:30pm and the store opened at 8pm. The line was around the block. After they let the people in that had stood in line we eventually were allowed to enter. People that I am sure were normally polite turned into monsters, pushing and shoving.  Very unnerving! They wouldn't take the coupon we had because the item we wanted was a "door buster". What's that? We left empty handed!  Needless to say it was not a successful outing. Lesson learned - we will stay home next year!

Shopping on line and gift cards just might save our sanity. We learned a lot about human nature that evening and it was, in some cases, sadly a disappointment. Conversely, a couple with oodles of stuff offered us the chance to go ahead of them. We thanked them over and over again for their kindness.  But I imagine that the people on line had sons' and daughters' at home who wanted that special item from Santa and so they made the effort to get it for them. Some stores were complimented for not opening on Thanksgiving, i.e. my favorites TJ Maxx and Marshals. Bravo to them!

Our tree is all decorated and lit.  Now Leland has to do the Christmas letter and then we will get our cards out. I want to cherish and savor this Christmas celebrating with family. Life is very precious to me.  I thank God every day, for every day.  Leland and I find such joy in one another and the life we lead. I wish it could go on forever.

Remember I wrote that Leland dresses like Nanook of the north when he walks the dog. With the extremely cold weather of late I now look like Mrs. Nanook of the north. We are a pair!

SHRIMP AND ARTICHOKE CASSEROLE: Serves four

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
One -1 pound bag largest-sized frozen cooked shrimp, peeled and cleaned
Two- 6 ounce jars marinated artichoke hearts
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 lemon, if desired
Heat oven to 450 degrees
Drizzle the baking dish with olive oil and garlic. Place in oven for 2 minutes then remove.
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp and artichokes together; add to the baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and bake 5 to 7 minutes if the shrimp are already cooked or for 15 minutes if the shrimp are raw. The cheese should be bubbly and golden.
Sprinkle with parmesan and lemon (if desired).
Serve immediately
DO NOT OVERCOOK
This is a fast and easy throw together meal. Serve with rice.

UGA won against Georgia Tech this afternoon so Leland is quite happy.
Have a great weekend and for those of you that reside in a cold weather area (like Georgia) stay toasty warm.

KENYA

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all. I hope you have a delicious dinner with family and friends.

No surprise - last night in the wee hours of the morning I thought of a subject for my new blog. My mind was awhirl and I had difficulty falling back to sleep. I wish my mind would function as well during normal hours!

Years ago Leland had a trip to Kenya and he asked me if I would like to go along. Silly question! I was practically packed before he finished the sentence. I found a wonderful lady who came to stay with Laura and off we went. We flew into Nairobi and along with some other crew members hired a safari guide. I wouldn't call him the most enthusiastic guide but he got us safely to and from our destinations. On the rutted road, hanging on for dear life we saw the most exquisite wild life: giraffes, lions, zebra, wildebeasts etc. running across the plains. I was mesmerized by the beauty of it all. We arrived at our destination and found a group of huts and outdoor dining facilities.

Because it was a quick decision for me to accompany Leland I was not able to get some medical shots. Oh well! On our way to our hut a nasty thing flew into my blouse and BIT me. We hadn't been there twenty minutes! I slapped my chest and the culprit fell on the ground. I looked at Leland and he had this strange look on his face as he bent to pick it up. Naturally we thought it was a tse tse fly. Oh my! We carried it into the "hotel" desk to show it to the man. I was trying to stay calm but wasn't terribly successful.  He identified it as an African bee and gave me some ointment which worked beautifully. 

When we woke up there were monkeys on the outdoor tables helping themselves to sugar. We weren't inclined to have coffee. Our safari continued and we saw hippos and more. I bought a black beaded bracelet from a Masai woman who had to be six foot five. She removed it from her wrist and gave it to me. Back in Nairobi I bought hand carved African animals and some other inexpensive jewelry. I didn't even look for a cookbook. A first for me!

Ii was a fabulous trip. The carved animals are long gone but I still have the jewelry and when I want to look funky I wear them. And, of course I still have the memories.

A friend of mine, Faith Morrow from fifty years ago sent me this recipe which is so fitting for today.

CRANBERRIES:

3 CUPS SUGAR

3/4 CUP WATER

4 WHOLE CLOVES

1 MEDIUM STICK CINNAMON

2 (12 OZ) PKG CRANBERRIES

3/4 THIN SKINNED ORANGE, INCLUDING SKIN, FINELY CHOPPED

3/4 COGNAC OR BRANDY

In pan combine sugar and water. Bring to boil and boil 3 minutes without stirring. Add cloves, cinnamon stick, cranberries and orange. Cook, stirring occasionally over low heat for 4 - 5 minutes until cranberries begin to burst. Remove from heat and stir in Cognac. Let cool. Remove cinnamon stick. Place in containers and refrigerate.

Blessings to all! Love, Arlene

TIDBITS

I was going through some old papers and came across two torn pages out of my old autograph book. Maybe some of you remember those little books we kept when we were around ten years old. I think it was a girl thing! It was fun getting friends and family to sign and write a little something in them. I know that Leland signed a page but I don't remember exactly what he wrote but at least he signed it.  The two pages that I came across were from my paternal Grandparents. Grandma wrote and I quote "When you are washing and at the tub. Remember me at every rub. Let the sud be ever so hot. Lather away and forget me not". It was signed Grandma and dated 6/11/49. The following is what my Grandfather wrote in his beautiful handwriting: "I would flood your path with sunshine, I would fence you from all ill. I would crown you with all blessings, If I could but have my will. It was signed, Grandpa (OGYGIAN) and dated June 12th, 1949. My Sister was born June 10th, 1949 so Grandpa and Grandma were baby sitting for me. Grandpa gave me my first watch (which I still have) and a first edition of Lord Tennyson's poems. He also comforted me when I got my first bee sting. Grandma was worn out from raising five children and at that point in her life was suffering from arthritis. She could no longer tat her lace doillies. I also came across some of the cards I received from the children on Mothers' Day, birthdays etc. They made me very sentimental.

When I was a little girl I never dreamed that I would travel the world. That I would walk on the Great Wall of China, go to Xian to see the terracotta warriors, The manger where baby Jesus was born in Bethelhem, the mountain top church in Turkey where Mary spent her final days, visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris etc. My dreams were not that sophisticated. The furthest south we traveled as a family was Washington, D.C. and the furthest west was to Pennsylvania. But I was content with that! Mom and Dad did what they could to broaden our horizons with their limited resources when Carole-Anne and I were children. New York City was the go to environment to broaden our knowledge by going to museums, plays etc. No complaints!

i keep a memory box filled with special notes from special people. It is filled to the gunnels. I also have kept each and every card from friends and family wishing me well. Thank you again folks for your thoughts and prayers.

I keep thinking that I should go through some of my stuff. Start clearing out! My mother did that. When I was visiting she and I went through her box of cards  that she kept through the years. Most were from my Dad, others from my Sister and I, friends and family. It was so very nostalgic and I am sure sad for her but, she discarded them. I know she did this to save my Sister and I from this sentimental task. Letting go is difficult but a necessary part of life. I just have a reluctance to parting with things. And, frankly, it's not time yet!!

I finally finished Elizabeth George's book "JUST ONE EVIL ACT" and  although it was quite a lengthy novel I did enjoy it.

Let's bring FONDUE back!

14 oz appenzeller cheese

14 oz gruyere cheese

14 oz imported swiss cheese

Rub fondue pot with garlic. Mix together 2 cups white wine, 1/2 cup kirsch and 1 1/2 tablespoon corn starch. Put cheese and mixture in fondue pot. Serve with cubed bread. This is a really terrific recipe and quite hardy.

I am off to play bridge. Have a lovely day and a very Happy Thanksgiving, Love, Arlene

HOBBIES

I'm looking around the kitchen and it is a mess!  Because I don't get out as often now I over bought on groceries for the Christmas holiday and I don't have space for half of the stuff in the pantry. You would think I was expecting the Chinese Army with all the food I bought. I bought a lot of staples for baking (I should have checked the pantry first) because I envision baking all these goodies. I certainly hope that I follow through on that idea and most importantly that I personally do not end up eating most of it!!

We didn't get the tree up yet  but I did scatter around some decorations. I did not go overboard as my intention is, that the tree be the most prominent Christmas item on display. For the most part I have conceived the menus. The fun part was the search for the perfect recipes. I do have over one thousand cookbooks and many handwritten journals that I wrote. I have this fascination with food. Have I mentioned that before!!??

When we lived in Brookfield, Conn. across from Lake Candlewood in a charming small home with a fieldstone fireplace, pine cupboards in the kitchen and a lovely deck (it took years for Laura to forgive us for selling that house - she loved it!) we entertained quite frequently.  Leland flew out of JFK Airport and every time we accompanied Leland we would come home and I would plan a themed dinner party. I had an Italian theme, German, Swiss (skipped a Norwegian theme), English etc and decorated the table accordingly. The wine and food fit the menu of the various countries.  What fun! I wouldn't have the energy to do that these days. I find that a lot of us ladies  in this community enjoy NOT having to cook and so we have formed little dining out groups.

Hobbies change according to age, location etc. When we first moved to Georgia in 1992 we moved to Parsons Run, a swimming/tennis community. We also chose this community because it had an excellent school system. Laura became an avid tennis player as did I. We spent twelve wonderful years there until we moved on Lake Lanier when Laura went off to college. Boating, again became our hobby of choice. We spent six years there and then Greg introduced us to "The Orchards". They were a client of his at that time and he suggested we look here. The BEST decision!  So, here we are with our new hobbies and new friends. Leland plays poker twice a week, goes to lunch with the "chow pals" and does skeet shooting.  There is bridge for me, luncheons and teas. Now I am thinking of joining the knitting club!

We have never been unhappy with any of our environments, Gainesville (Laura was born there on January 17, 1984} and Key Largo, Florida and so forth. We have, at most of the locations made lasting friendships and discovered new things to do. It's been great!! And, here there are always new activities being added to the monthly calendar. Retirement has been treating us well.

My next go to novel is going to be WHITE FIRE by Preston & Child.  I recommend their previous Pendergast novels.

I am so sorry people are having difficulty leaving comments  on this blog as I would so like to know your take on this.  If you would like to leave a comment regarding the blog on caringbridge please do.

NEW ORLEAN PRALINES, GREAT GIFT IN A HOLIDAY TIN

2 cups sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups pecan halves
1 tablespoon butter
2 teaspoons vanilla

In a large saucepan, bring sugar and buttermilk  to a boil. Add soda slowly (otherwise the mixture tends to boil over), and cook until a soft ball forms in a cup of cool water.  (time to come to the soft ball stage varies; after about 7 minutes of stirring, drop about a teaspoon of mixture in water and rub it between fingers; when ball is about to form, difference is evident. This step is crucial. When soft ball stage is reached remove pan from heat and add pecans, butter and vanilla. Beat candy with a large spoon until it is thick enough to drop by spoonfuls onto waxed paper (mixture will look less glossy when it is ready to spoon. Yield: Approximately 2 dozen 2 1/2 inch pralines.

Write to y'all later! Love, Arlene










t
 t

ERASERS AND MORE

When I was a young child my Mother and I would go to the five and dime stores such as Kresge and Woolworths in Mount Vernon, New York.  Mt. Vernon was a bedroom community outside of the city. After browsing for a good deal of time in either of the two stores we would have lunch at their respective lunch counters. What a treat! To this day I remember the delicious toffee lollypops at Kresge's.  I must digress here and mention Howard Johnsons' lunch counters. Their fried clams in a buttered grilled hotdog bun and their bread pudding with vanilla sauce was a feast to all. {There is no mystery here, I am a food junkie! ) Going there was a family affair. Anyway, back to Kresge. Mom and I were perusing all the goodies from cosmetics, trinkets, inexpensive perfumes etc. I went to the back to school section and my eyes focused in on this pretty pink eraser. Suddenly a demon entered my body and I took it. Strangely I felt just a tiny bit of remorse. Well Mom and I made our way back home by bus and by walking.  No surprise here, Mom found the eraser and questioned why I had it in my possession. I confessed! Back we went by foot and by bus. I returned the eraser to the manager and with tears in my eyes I made the formal declaration that I took it! I must have looked and sounded pathetic! He responded that it was "the honorable thing to do" and I "wouldn't go to jail this time". Thinking back on the scene now I believe that my Mother and the manager probably had all they could do to keep from laughing out loud.  The journey back home for me was a long and quiet one. But, needless to say, lesson learned. I bet my Mom and Dad found the whole sordid affair deliciously funny but they also knew, it wouldn't happen again.

When I was in high school I used to swim at the local Y. The teacher, Mrs. Moon decided that I might be a candidate for further training and took me to the Y in New York City. We were met there by Johnny Weismuller, an olympic swimmer. He also played Tarzan. At that time I was rather oblivious to his stature. The first thing he had me do, was walk. So, walk around the pool I did. Later he watched me swim. Mrs. Moon and he had a consultation and then she and I went to Grand Central Station and went home. Days later Mom and Dad asked me if I would like to be coached by Mr. Weismuller. The problem was that everyday after school I would have to get on the train and go into New York City. I also thought about the other fun extra activities I was involved with: Eastern Star, Junior League, church etc. As a family we decided that it was a commitment that we didn't want to take on. I have no regrets but it gives me a tale to tell and I was flattered!

Writing this blog evokes memories that otherwise would have remained in the past. I urge you to give your families a glimpse into your past. The younger you!

ANYTHING BY AYN RAND IS A GOOD READ

CRANAPPLE CRISP

3 cups of unpeeled apples, diced
2 cups raw cranberries
1 to 1 1/4 cup white sugar
1 1/2 cups quick oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup flour
1/3 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup melted butter

Mix cranberries and sugar. Place apples in 9 x 13 inch casserole. Pour cranberry mixture over apples. Combine oats, brown sugar, flour, pecans and butter. Spread over cranberry-apple mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour. If desired make 1 1/2 to 2 times the topping.

Have a great weekend! Love, Arlene

HOLIDAY MOOD

Having some of the family coming for Christmas has put me in the holiday mood. I rearranged some furniture last night to make space for that huge artificial tree I ordered on line a couple of years ago. It was one of those compulsive purchases. I will miss the scent of a live tree. I am being really good and recycling Christmas decorations and not buying anything new.

Laura will be here sitting on her Dad's lap while he reads the "THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" on Christmas Eve.  I am sure I will get sentimental. No doubt about it!  The tree will be lit and the various candles aglow. Joe, Bud and Jennifer will share this lovely evening and Greg will join us for Christmas brunch on Christmas Day. Leland and I will have the tree all decorated well before the big day.

Leland and I exchange cards and have been for a few years now. We are very selective in the greeting. We really don't need anything individually and this is so much simpler. We concentrate on just being together.

Happy Hanukkah starting on November 27th to many of our friends. We hope you have a lovely holiday. Especially to Ari and Liv our particular favorites!

Sometimes I get a little nostalgic for the Christmas's of my childhood because as previously stated my Parents' made everything so special. But, this is the here and now and it is our turn to make it special for our children. Amazingly, they all go all out and decorate to the hilt. And they all write Christmas letters of their own now - a family tradition.

I just realized that by bringing in evergreen boughs and covering the mantle etc. I will have the real smell of Christmas. Bravo!!

Needless to say 2013 has brought its challenges but  along with the challenges have come the realization that we have so much to be thankful for: our many supportive friends, family and the miracles of modern day medicine. I hope and pray that in the years to come many medical advances will be made and cures will be discovered. Time marches on and thankfully I am marching along with it.

Thanksgiving is a marvelous time to give thanks for all our blessings. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. I count each and everyone of you among my blessings.

NOTE: On the Peach Surprise desert recipe I have been having trouble locating butter almond cake mix and am beginning to wonder if they have discontinued it. So, I bought Duncan Hines Butter Golden cake mix. I will sprinkle almond extract over the peaches and then follow the rest of the recipe.

"COMING HOME" and SHELLSEEKERS by ROSAMUNDE PILCHER are both marvelous novels.

CHICKEN LASAGNA given to me by my sweet and special  friend, Carol Light

8 oz. oven ready lasagna
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cream  of chicken  soup
1 cup sour cream (lite)
1/2- 3/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
2 cups grated cheddar cheese

Mix all ingredients except cheese and lasagna. Layer chicken mixture, then noodles, the cheese, 3 times ending with cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes.

Note: If you double the recipe, double the chicken (I use lots) but cut down on the soups (becomes too soupy).

Have a lovely day. Judy, Carol and I will be attending another healing service today. That and writing this blog is a great way  to start my day. A little shopping at TJ Maxx and then a Starbucks, then dinner with friends is a great finish!

FUNNY OR NOT?

For some absurd reason I got to thinking about Abbott and Costello, George Burns and Gracie Allen, Lucy and Desi in the middle of the night. The list went on of course, to include Bob Hope, Phyllis Diller and many more. They were truly funny comedians. They didn't resort to foul language, sex etc. Many years ago, Leland and I made the dreadful mistake in seeing Red Foxx in Las Vegas. He was terrible! Why do people, now-a-days find bodily functions, bedroom antics and using the F word funny? I consider myself equipped with a sense of humor but I don't laugh at the comedians of today. I find them unfunny!

Even adds on television as far as I am concerned have gone over the limit. Okay so I may be a tad jealous of the Victoria Secret models but still and all nothing is sacred when it comes to advertising. Obviously, the companies make money on showing nearly naked bodies. Remember the "older" movies when love affairs were not played out right in front of you but hinted at. To me that was sexier. Are the younger generation really laughing at these pathetic comedians or do they think it is a requirement? If we could ask Phyllis Diller, Dean Martin, Henny Youngman, etc who were really funny and others of yore what they think of the newer generation of comedians, I bet they would frown in displeasure.

Unfortunately with the advent of video games and computer driven action movies some of the younger ones are addicted to this type of violence. In some cases, as I have previously mentioned, video games have become a way of occupying the children in lieu of getting them involved in music, sports and most especially, reading. These are babysitting mechanisms for parents. This does NOT apply to all parents. I know both parents and grandparents who participate in watching and/or driving their family members to their various activities. I also know that in a lot of cases both parents need to work and they are just plum tired at the end of the day. But. you need to be aware of what your children are doing in their spare time.

I know that texting is a wonderful way of keeping in touch with our children (I don't text) and they use this method to touch base with friends. I think that is good but I  actually prefer talking with our children because you can detect in their voices how they truly are. I know immediately, if Laura is coming down with a cold or if one of the others is having a bad day. Conversely, we love hearing about the good things happening in their lives. One doesn't get the innuendos of what is going on in their lives unless you listen. Parents and Grandparents, listening is important.

Call me old-fashioned - that's okay!

STUART WOODS is a great author - particularly his older book ""PALINDROME"

CRANBERRY NUT CRESCENT:

One 8 ounce can crescent rolls
One 4 ounce can crescent rolls
One tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
One tablespoon powdered sugar

Heat oven to 375 degrees Unroll dough: separate into 12 triangles. Sprinkle with sugar, cranberries and walnuts. Press cranberries and walnuts lightly into dough. Roll loosely from shortest side of triangle. Place rolls, point side down on ungreased cookie sheet; curve into crescent shape. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve warm. Makes 12 rolls.

Happily, Ari and our neighbor, Sonny Bush, who suffered a stroke are both on the mend. Hurray!

I have reread this and I know it sounds like a lecture but I also know that many of my piers agree with what I have written. Now if we could just get the younger ones to agree with this philosophy!

GREEN

I love the color green. It is and has always been my favorite color in the spectrum of colors. I don't necessarily care what hue it is, if it's green I am drawn to it. In all our previous homes including this one I always have touches of green. Our car is green!  I think that is why I used to collect Majolica. These decorative plates are spread out across our mantle and in the corner cupboard my Dad created many years ago. When we had the interior of our home painted a year or so ago I choose a lovely shade of green for our master bedroom and Tuscan colors for other rooms.

When we go out driving I ooh and aah at the many shades of green in the multitude of trees, grass etc. Think about it, flowers generally have green stems and leaves.  It must be God's favorite color also. Don't you sometimes wonder how all these colors came to be?  Have you ever seen a rainbow?  I have and have truly been astounded each and every time. I  used to love tramping through Muir Woods in California and seeing the various colors of moss.

I am not saying that I don't like other colors, I absolutely do, but green is the best!  Whenever we visit another country or state I admire the flowers. Seattle has an abundance of rain so flowers and foliage flourish. Hawaii has unusual flowers and of course,  the desert has their distinctive plants. When we went to Victoria we visited the Butchart Gardens and I took close-up photos of pratically all of the flowers in bloom.  My nephew Josh and his wife Gilda choose the Botanical Gardens in New York to host their wedding, It was magnificent!

In California I had gardenias that emitted the most wonderful aroma along with citrus trees that lined the pool area. Now, lest you believe I have a green thumb, I assure you that I positively do not!  I am simply an admirer!  Sadly gardening is not my thing.  That is one of the reasons that our community "The Orchards" appealed to us, gardening is included in our monthly dues. This Christmas I will decorate with holly which grows right out front.

If you are expecting a recipe for something green i.e. salad, pea soup etc, I am sorry to disappoint you. I am going with a hardy meal called:  CASSOULET D'AMORE;

One 1/4 pounds sweet Italian sausages, casing removed
Six GREEN onions
Six large garlic cloves, chopped
Two tablespoons olive oil
Two 1/4 cups crushed tomatoes with added puree
Two (15 oz can cannellini beans (white) drained
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
One teaspoon oregano (optional)
1/2 cup fresh Italian or french bread crumbs
12 cup grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine sausage (cut into thirds), chopped green onions, chopped garlic and olive oil in a heavy dutch oven over medium-high heat. Saute until sausages begin to brown about 12 minutes. Remove from heatr. Mix in crushed tomatoes, beans (I usually use 3 cans) parsley  and if using oregano.  Season with s & p  (I let guests season their dish on their own). Combine 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs and 1/2 cup grated parmesan  cheese in a small bowl. ( I am much more generous with this combination than the recipe calls for).  Sprinkle mixture evenly over cassoulet. Bake until cassoulet is heated through, bubbling around edges and light brown on top, about 36 minutes. Serve with french bread and lightly roasted asparagus if desired.

I am in a decorating mood! I think I will move things around a bit and incorporate some more green into the scheme. I have other green plates, green candles etc. stored away. And tonight I am preparing  stir fried asparagus and beef in hoisin sauce served with rice. I'll even light a green candle!

We found out last night that our neighbor and friend had a mild stroke last Wednesday. He along with Ari are in our prayers. We wish them both a speedy recovery. I hope that both families know that we are here for them.

RELAXATION

What a wonderful relaxing day this has been. I have been all snuggled up in the bedroom reading and catching up on some TV shows. Leland is watching the UGA vs Auburn football game. Sadly UGA isn't doing very well. Later we will watch a movie together. I personally think that this is a perfect way to spend a weekend. Lest you think I am really lazy I did do laundry and cooked dinner. The perfect wife!!?  Gregory always calls to wish us a good weekend and to check up on Mom and Dad. We appreciate  all the  family checking in with us. Last week was pretty busy and the coming week seems to be heading in that direction so a quiet weekend is always so welcome.

The older we get, the more inclined we are to want quiet time together.  Yes, I know that we are often not even in the same room but we are in close proximity to one another.  Sometimes, because we are retired and we truly love our home, I feel like we are on vacation. That is a good thing. I have never had a "keeping up with the Joneses'" mentality so I am happy for all our friends who are traveling etc. and enjoying their retirement. Goodness knows they worked many years to be able to live comfortably in their "golden years". I am anxious for the future of our children and grandchildren because the scenario is changing rapidly and drastically. Remember I urge you to involve yourself in politics. I know that it is a sore subject and like religion should be avoided but come on folks, things are not going well in Washington, D.C.  Educate yourselves and then vote. Every vote counts and is important.

This is  a short opine today as my mind is as lazy as my body today. I just wanted to say a quick hello and recommend that you find some Agatha Christie movies on Netflix. I have read all of her books and now enjoy watching Miss Marple and Poirot solve mysteries.  Remember "The Ten Little Indians" movie based on one of her books?  That is one of my all time favorites. I presume my love of mysteries stem from the Nancy Drew books I used to read as a child.

CRANBERRY FOOL

One and 1/2 cup whipping cream
Two tablespoons sugar
One teaspoon vanilla
One (16oz) can whole cranberry sauce

In bowl, combine whipping cream, sugar and vanilla. Beat with mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Place cranberry sauce in large mixing bowl. Using spatula, gently fold in cream mixture until combined. Cover lightly and refrigerate. A great dessert! Serve with a shortbread cookie.

SHORTBREAD

One pound butter, softened
One cup sugar
Four cups flour

Mix above ingredients. Flour hands lightly and spread dough on a 15 1/2 X 10 1/2 inch jelly roll pan (cookie sheet with sides). Prick with fork before baking. Bake at 300 degrees for one hour until light brown. After baking sprinkle with sugar and cut while warm.

I hope all of you are enjoying your weekend. I look forward to seeing some of you this week and to Pat and Tommy enjoy that tropical weather and the resort. You deserve it!

GOING BACK

Yesterday three of us, Carol, Judy and I attended a healing service at Carol's Episcopalian Church. Carol recently lost her wonderful husband, C.J. of almost fifty five years. C. J. helped plan a memorial garden at the church and it should be completed soon. His ashes will be spread in this garden. The garden is being made possible by generous donations.  Carol, understandably is coping with grief and finds the healing service helpful. She invited Judy and I to attend.  I am so thankful for the experience and I will attend further services. The Priest was wonderful and understanding. I liked it when he told me that if I would ever like to talk with him ("or not") he was available.

I am a lapsed church goer but nevertheless a believer. I attended The Church of the Ascension in Mt. Vernon, New York for many years. I sang (mouthed - you really don't want to hear me sing) in the church choir, attended youth meetings and socialized with friends. My Mom was an active participant. Dad chauffeured us or we took a bus. It was a beautiful stone church that took up an entire corner. At twenty-one I was married to my first husband there and attended a service twenty-two years later when my Parents' renewed their vows just before my Dad passed away. I have very fond memories of that church and to this day I maintain friends from there. In fact, Waldine and Peter Peckham, met there and have been married over fifty years. I attended their wedding there. I probably didn't pay attention to the sermons, day dreaming the time away but I loved that church and never minded going every Sunday.

Priest Keith Oglesdy, whom I met yesterday, left a very lucrative career to follow his dream of becoming a Priest.  I can see why he is so good at what he does. He truly loves helping people. Carol told me that when C.J. was at home with hospice in attendance he visited every day and sometimes twice a day. He gave solace to C.J., Carol and their family. Yesterday at the healing service I found some peace of mind. And, I got a backward glimpse into my youth and all that transpired in regards to church. To this day I can remember the inside of The Church of the Ascension as if it were yesterday.

Today, Ari is getting a feeding tube. This little Lion is such a special child. Everyone who meets him, falls in love with him. He is a true warrior and as always, he is in our prayers.

A dear friend of mine asked if I could mention some diet recipes. Well, when I want to eat healthy I eat salmon/chicken with steamed vegetables. The recipes I include are quite old but I think timeless and of course, fattening! I have fun researching through my hand written journals etc. for what I think you might enjoy and are fairly easy to prepare. For example:

PEACH SURPRISE

One large can sliced Delmonte peaches
One box butter almond cake mix (I could not locate this mix but did get butter pecan by Betty Crocker}
One stick real butter
One large package of chopped pecans
In a 9 X 11 baking dish, empty the can of peaches with juice. On top of this, sprinkle cake mix, getting out any dry lumps. DO NOT MIX. On top of cake mix, place butter pats to cover. Sprinkle with pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 min - check to see if all the cake mix is moist with butter. Add butter to any dry area and let bake until browned. Serve with vanilla ice cream. You can make several hours ahead but not the day before.

PINEAPPLE SPREAD

One (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup walnuts finely chopped
One can (15 ounce) crushed pineapple
Blend together and chill. Serve with your favorite crackers


The weekend is here again and so quickly. Have a delightful weekend. I intend to catch-up on phoning some friends and reading. Not very strenuous but oh so relaxing. Love to all, Arlene

ALASKA AND BEYOND

I have been thinking about the wonderful Alaskan cruise/tour we went on with our dear friends and neighbors' Pat and Tommy Demetriou. We had a blast! We choose our excursions well thanks to Pat's exhaustive research. We admired the colorful flowers hanging from baskets in Anchorage, flew over the glaciers in a tiny airplane. My apprehensiveness completely disappeared when we took in the beauty of the landscape. We rafted and saw wild life beyond belief. We saw Mt McKinley (usually hidden behind clouds) in all its glory. We ended up in Victoria and Vancouver. It was such a memorable trip because of the companionship of Pat and Tommy and because of the beauty of Alaska. Then I think about  our bus trip to Scotland and what made that trip so special was that we were with our friends of many years, Diana and Chuck James. We have taken other trips and we have been fortunate to spend quality time with people near and dear to our hearts; Mary and John Rutherford and Judy and Paul Nicolson and again Pat and Tommy on our Australian/New Zealand cruise. It wouldn't be me if I didn't mention how delicious the food was on all these trips. What fun times those trips were! My memory bank is filled with the joy of those trips. But I still have space for further adventures!


If someone asked me what my favorite trip was, I really couldn't say. I know I loved touring Italy because we were with my Sister, Greg and Grace. Our rented villa sat outside of Cortona where Laura was attending school  and was just divine. We went to Pisa, the Amalfi coast and to Pompeii, Florence and Rome. What made that trip so special was that we were with family. We laughed, we awed at Italy and we shopped and ate! The perfect combination!


I have been so fortunate to have always been accompanied by the "love of my life" Mr. Leland Thomas Larson. Which reminds me; did I ever tell you that when I was eight or nine years old and I fell in like with Leland I always envisioned us getting married. I practiced writing Mrs. Leland T. Larson and Mrs. Arlene Larson. Little did I know then that my dream would eventually and happily come true. I am the luckiest person!


I am so intent on capturing my life on this blog so that future generations will have a glimpse into the Arlene of yore. I want to be remembered for my sense of adventure and to know that I truly cared about family and friends. Somehow that is important to me. I know I am not unique in that respect because I am sure all of you that read this blog feel the same way. We are similar that way! That's why we love one another.


EASY MACAROONS (My Mom's recipe)
Mix together a six ounce package of grated coconut (the finer the better) with a 15 ounce can of sweetened condensed milk and two teaspoons of vanilla. Drop a heaping teaspoon on cookie sheet covered with a greased paper bag. I guess wax paper or parchment would work. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Have a great day and spend some time researching your next trip. It is a big world out there to explore. Please also keep the survivors and the people helping to restore normalcy from the typhoon in your prayers.

JUST THINKING

Leland and I spent the day together and it was lovely. We did some errands in the morning and then spent the afternoon watching NCIS, catching up on paperwork,  and reading.

Because I have been avoiding the news somewhat I didn't realize until today that the Philippines was devastated by a horrific typhoon and many lives were lost.  How very, very sad. One realizes how fragile life is. I have experienced two earthquakes and they are frightening. The second and largest was in Mexico City. I panicked but Leland calmly informed me that that was "counter productive". I calmed down but insisted on walking down nineteen flights of stairs with Laura in Leland's arms, to the lobby. One couple had been stuck in the elevator and were desperately in need of a stiff drink. One young man had only a hand towel covering his private parts. We were a motley group but found solace in one anothers' company.  We eventually climbed back up to our room and went to bed. In the morning Leland operated the flight out of there and we haven't been back since.

I am restraining myself from buying Christmas decorations because I donated a bunch of stuff to Goodwill last year. I will concentrate on spending time with our guests, Laura and Joe, Jennifer and Bud and Greg. When the children become adults and have their own lives we as parents learn to share them.  Last year Laura and Joe were with Joe's parents, Sandy and Richard Galloway and his two sisters. They did manage a visit at Thanksgiving and we were so grateful.  I am just delighted that Joe's parents live nearby Laura and Joe. It comforts me that Laura has all of them in her life. And, Laura's dearest and best friend, Dr. Kate Hewitt and Kate's boyfriend, Alec get together whenever possible.  They live in Charleston. We consider Kate and her parents' family. When Laura told us that she wanted to move to Charlotte we were taken aback but supported her wholeheartedly. She didn't know a soul there and didn't have a job but it was something she needed to do. It was either there or San Francisco where she had friends so we were thankful she choose to be nearer. The bottom line is, that she has made a wonderful life for herself there and we are so proud of her. She spread her wings and flew away but it was the best decision for her. We talk briefly every day so that keeps Mom and Dad in the loop. Happily we will be celebrating her 30th birthday with her on January 17th - yippee!!

This recipe was a Christmas staple for many years: SWEET POTATO CAKE

One cup butter

Four eggs

Three cups mashed sweet potatoes (canned yams)

Three cups flour (sifted)

Two Tablespoons baking powder

One teaspoon salt

One teaspoon baking soda

Two cups sugar

One Tablespoon cinnamon

1/2  teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cream butter and gradually add sugar until mixed well. Beat in eggs one at a time. Beat well. Add potatoes and spices. Add sifted flour, beat. Add baking powder and soda. Fold in nuts. Pour into a large greased and floured tube pan. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour. 

Tomorrow night is bunco night. There are twelve of us that get together at the club house once a month Why not plan a little bunco party at your home and serve the above with some festive eggnog. A great start for the holidays'.

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ME

Leland and our son, Greg are off at a Falcon vs Seattle football game down in Atlanta. I went out with a friend for a little galavanting but spent most of the day home alone. I always have a phone by my side, just in case, I need to call 911. I am having to adapt to the new conditions under which I now conduct my life. I always keep the geographical location of the hospital in my mind when going out. Traveling out of the country is not an option at this time.  I have to be sure that I always take my anti-seizure medication on time. And, there is that ever looming MRI in January. What a way to live - but living I am and that's the good news. I try not to burden my family with my fears but I have to face the fact that life has altered in ways that I never predicted nor anticipated. "It is what it is".  Today I received an update on precious Ari and the fears that his parents' have for his future. The fact that Jody expressed their fears for their little one made me realize that I should express mine. Remember that I always try to tell it like it is. I smile, I primp and change hats to match my outfits, wear eyeshadow and blush and lipstick to try and look good. I am crying less but internally I worry, especially at night.  We have already determined that worrying is not healthy. I don't like my family to worry so I try to control it. I made the mistake of printing out information on brain tumors. Many pages that I skimmed over. I should have left well enough alone. TMI! I have written about facing fears and conquering them. Easier said then done! Okay, I am done now. I just needed to write about what is going on with me. I do feel fine so that is a plus. I hope that looking on the bright side, the cheerful side of things will help me heal. I will concentrate on that. There is no family, unfortunately, that goes their merry way without challenges. I guess these challenges make us stronger. I surely hope so! I also believe in miracles and I hope you do as well. I pray for Ari and his family and that miracle.

I don't want you to come away feeling gloomy after reading this.  It is just the reality of my situation and face it, I must. I also want you to know that time will help me decide how to proceed. Maybe that cruise will be in my future and certainly new hats, new lipsticks etc. are. I want to spend more time with all of the family, our son and five daughters and four grandchildren. Yes, there is still a lot of visiting,  new books to read, shopping and socializing with our great friends to do. And especially, I want to be by my husband Leland's side as he has been by mine. He is my hero and I adore him! So, I aim to go forward in fairly decent health and with a good attitude.  We shall see!  Time will tell!

"THE KING'S DECEPTION by STEVE BERRY is a good read.

ORANGE-CREAM CHEESE LOAF (This is so good!) The following is from the "Favorite Recipes of Episcopal Churchwomen" (1968)
2 1/4 cups sifted flour (not self rising)
3 teaspoons baking powder
1       "         Salt
1/2 cup shortening
1 2/3 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup milk
1 - 8 oz cream cheese
1/2 cups chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons grated orange peel
1/4 cup orange juice
Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Cream shortening, gradually add l l/3 sugar,, continuing to cream until light and fluffy,  Blend in eggs, beating well. Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Cut cheese in 1/4 inch cubes; fold into batter along with walnuts and orange peel. Turn batter into 2 greased and floured 9 x 5 inch loaf pans. Bake at 375 degrees for 50 to 55 minutes or until golden brown. Combine remaining sugar and orange juice; brush over hot loaves. Cool completely before serving.

Listen y'all stay well and enjoy the upcoming week. I have a luncheon on Wednesday and a healing service on Thursday. I was invited by our recently widowed neighbor and friend, Carol. I eagerly accepted!      

SAYING GOODBYE

Saying goodbye is never easy for the family and friends of a loved one. Today we attended the celebration of the life of our neighbor and friend, Les Piot. Many lovely remembrances were shared by the children and grandchildren of Les. He was a kind, generous and loving man who left a legacy of dignity and decency to his family that will be shared through the years to the new generations of Piots.

It is difficult to change subjects but I am going to segue to another topic because I am all snuggled up in my cozy pajamas and looking forward to a quiet weekend. We might even switch on the fireplace just for the atmosphere as it doesn't emit any heat at all. Around the football games that Leland will watch we will catch up on some of our favorite programs that are taped: NCIS, CHICAGO FIRE, BLUE BLOODS and ELEMENTARY. These are shows we jointly watch as Leland is not at all interested in HGTV and the food network shows. And, I am embarrassed but honest to say "The  Housewives of Beverly Hills etc. (I put that in small letters in hopes you will just glance over that last one.)

We will also (how exciting) try to find out what is ailing the freezer section of our refrigerator. That, of course means, taking everything out of there. I hope we are not going to find six of one thing (like my mustards). Maybe Leland can fix it and maybe we will have to call  the repair man. I'm betting on the later.

I have also taken the advice of some very well meaning friends and said goodbye to my daily Starbucks addiction. The last seizure I had basically came after drinking my five shots of decaf espresso (vente) over lots of ice which I had been having daily for years.  I ponder whether Starbucks stock has recently gone down!?  Maybe they accidentally gave me caffeinated. Maybe it was just a coincidence. Whatever, I did go on line and did find that there is a debate as to whether caffeine is a determent to people in my circumstance.  So, why should I not do everything I can to prevent seizures. I will never get a DUI as I can't drink alcohol and of course, I am not able to drive. I  am not bragging just stating the facts, maam!

I hope you are all keeping up with what is going on in our country. The next vote is an important one. Don't take anything for granted.  You do need to vote for the person(s) who best represent your thought process in regards to our country.  And, while I am at it, you also need to shop at TJ MAXX as moi owns stock in the company!  Remember the Holidays are coming. How pushy I am!

ESPRESSO-BALSAMIC ROASTED CHICKEN
One pound red potatoes, cut into one inch chunks
Two large carrots, sliced
One medium red onion cut into 8 wedges
One tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
One (3 1/2 pound) cut up chicken
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
Three tablespoons brown sugar
Two teaspoons instant espresso powder
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Preheat oven to 425 degrees
In large roasting pan, toss vegetables with oil and 1/4 tsp each oregano, salt and pepper. Pat chicken dry with paper towel, place on top of vegetables and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt. Roast 20 minutes.
Meanwhile in a 2 quart saucepan, stir vinegar, sugar, espresso powder, 1/4 cup water,, remaining 1/4 tsp oregano. Heat to to boiling on medium-high, stirring. Reduce heat, simmer 8 to 10 minutes or until thickened and slightly syrupy.
Brush chicken with sauce. Roast 15 minutes. Brush with more sauce. Roast 10 minutes or until thermometer into thickest part of chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
Transfer chicen and vegetables to platter. Strain pan juice into measuring cup; discard fat. Pour juices over chicken and vegetables. Garnish with parsley.
Serve with a wonderful bread. A meal in one pan! Serves 6

Now is a good time to go through your wardrobe and give what you are no longer wearing to a charity.  Take magazines you have read to a nursing home and share books you have purchased with your neighbors. Now you are definitely convinced - that I am pushy!

Have a wonderful weekend, Love, Arlene  P.S.  Laura pointed out that I mentioned giving up coffee and here I posted a recipe that calls for espresso!  Okay use decaf espresso powder if caffeine effects you.

KADEWE

An email from a friend, Joy Miller, whom we met in Berlin, evoked some very fond memories of shopping in foreign countries, particularly at the The Ka De in Berlin. It was and I am sure still is a premier and fabulous department store. One floor was completely devoted to food. Department stores in Japan, France, Bangkok and Harrods in London among others all have the same concept: everything you could possibly need is housed in one location. Browsing was an all day affair at the KaDeWe when you included having lunch at one of the lunch counters and buying food for that evening.  To me it was a such a treat to shop there. Many of the foods were exotic and abundant.  Harrods was a madhouse but I did buy some delicious scones on a recent trip. When we stayed in Tokyo the food was unfamiliar to me but I always found something by pointing.  The entire department store in Bangkok was filled with smells that were not always pleasant. but that is where I bought Laura's canned formula. Heaven knows what I fed her at times. Even to this day both of my children have very experimental appetites. I still have items that I purchased at the KaDeWe (non-perishable of course) from over twenty years ago. I am a saver! You know, I have a lot of "stuff".

When I think back to all the lovely opportunities that we had, thanks to Leland's career I am truly grateful. It was a vagabond life for many years but my goodness I wouldn't trade it for anything. I only wish that I had the aptitude for learning languages. I simply am a dummy when it comes to that. I envy people who can,  in fact,  speak several languages. I did take two years of Spanish in high school but saying "arroz con pollo" and nada will just get me so far.

Leland took me out and about today. Wasn't that fun for him! I looked around for some Christmas ideas  and came up with a great idea.  Gift cards always seem like the easiest solution these days but not very imaginative. I am thinking of a foreign theme for gifts (not China) because I happened upon cookies (where else but in TJ Maxx) in a tinned container from Nuremberg, Germany. It reminded me of our visits there at Christmas time. I still use some of the decorative tin boxes I got there. The cookies are long gone! But anyway, that is my theme this year, around the world!  Jennifer and her husband, Bud and Laura and Joe will be the recipients of this year's wild idea. They will be here for Christmas and we are so excited!

Whenever I had lunch at the KADEWE I would get the following treat which I have served as an appetizer on numerous occasions.

French bread sliced thinly
Camembret cheese
Ligonberry perserves

So simple! Just layer cheese and ligonberry on the bread.

Now is the time to go to the library and borrow Christmas cookbooks. You just might find the perfect recipe for your dinner get to-gether to serve alongside your traditional meal or to make for a gift. I truly read cookbooks like novels.

A drive in the country would make a fun day over the weekend. But, how silly of me, it's the football season.


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GRATEFUL

Well today is my 74th birthday and I am so grateful to be able to celebrate!  Wonderful neighbors took me out for lunch and just a tad of shopping. I received so many cards and phone calls and messages that my ego is inflated!  I am truly blessed to have a wonderful husband, children, family and friends and really to just be alive. I won't "beat around the bush", this has been a tough year but with a renewed sense of courage I fully intend to celebrate my 75th. I have written about fear, worrying etc. and hopefully I will in time conquer all those negatives. Just please bear with me!

Sadly, on this day I got news that our wonderful neighbor, Les Piot passed away. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Joan, his wife and their family. Les suffered from alzheimer dIsease but always  had a smile on his face and a sense of humor.  He lived to be 91 and had had a wonderful and productive life. He will be missed by all. Also, I received news today that my Aunt Helen (my Mom's half sister) passed away last week. She was the one we met in New York City every Saturday for years. But, with this sad news I also think of my wonderful grand nephew, Jack who is just starting on this adventure we call life. Life continues with the young!  Go forth and enjoy little ones!

As usual when I sit down to write I have a vague idea of what I want to write but I just let the words flow. Because today is my birthday I titled this blog GRATEFUL because I am truly grateful for all that I have and the many people in my life who contribute to my happiness. I have never said "why me" because the fact of the matter is; why not me. No one wants to be ill but it does show us how well we can cope. I hope I am coping fairly well and meeting adversity, hopefully, with fortitude and a deep faith that all will be well. It hasn't always been easy but I have learned so much about the goodness of others and the deep meaning of friendship. Please know that I am so GRATEFUL for all of you!

I have been a subscriber to "Victoria" magazine for many years and also own several of their cookbooks.  I suggest you browse through an edition and then decide whether the magazine is your "cup of tea".

This recipe comes from "The Silver Palate" cookbook originally published in 1979. It is called  SPINACH PASTA WITH SALMON AND CREAM SAUCE
2 cups heavy cream
4 tablespoons sweet butter
salt to taste
pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
1 pound fresh spinach pasta, narrower noodles preferred (I sometimes used dried)
1 tablespoon parmesan (additional can be grated on the individual plates)
1 1/2 -2 cups smoked salmon (I usually buy the boxed (sockeye) one they sell at Costco during the holidays)
1/2 cup chopped fresh dill

Bring the cream and half of the butter to a simmer in a small saucepan. Add 1 teaspoon salt and the nutmeg, continue to simmer until cream is reduced by about one third.
Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot and drop in the pasta.
Meanwhile, stir grated parmesan, then the flaked salmon and 1/2 cup dill into the cream, and remove from the heat. Remember fresh pasta is ready in 2 to 3 minutes.
Drain pasta, return to the hot pan and toss with remaining butter is melted. Divide pasta among six heated plates and spoon salmon cream sauce over each portion.
Serves six first course portions.

Serve with freshly baked bread accompanied by olive oil with a bit of balsamic vinegar and a side salad.

I'M BACK!

A sign that I am coming out of my funk is that I look around the house and start to mentally redecorate. Then, it starts, I begin  repositioning  "stuff".  I enjoy doing this because I am, a want to be interior decorator.  The only thing missing from this equation is a degree and the ability to really know if I am doing things correctly. All I know is that I love moving my junk around.  It gives me such satisfaction.

I got into a blue and white phase and I was aided by Laura who scoured consignment shops in Charlotte. She found some wonderful bargains!  She thinks I am done but Laura if you are reading this I'm not.  Keep looking, sweetie. I will find a space for another great find.  I also love green and am thinking of something I passed up at Homegoods.  Why oh why, didn't I buy that garden seat!?  It would have looked lovely next to the bamboo chair. The lesson is, buy it when you see it!

Well, the crux of this dialogue, is that I am on the mend after my last seizure. That's a very good sign!  It always happens this way and I always hear Leland say " uh oh, she's at it again". Then, I see a smile on his face because he knows I'm on my way back.  I know I need potpourri to fill that new blue and white bowl Laura is going to find for me. I love smelly soaps from Italy and seasonal aromatic candles. Lighting them makes me feel like a domestic goddess.

Yessiree,, I'm back and the truth of the matter is I hope it stays this way. Thanks folks for hanging in there with me.

My sweet kindergarten friend, Mary Rutherford sent me the book "FRIENDSHIP CAKE". It is a lovely book and will be my next read. Thank you so much Mary and tell John we think of him so much and that he is in our prayers.

VIDALIA SWEET ONION APPETIZER

One cup finely chopped Vidalia sweet onions
One cup shredded swiss cheese
One cup mayonnaise

Mix all ingredients together and pour into a pie plate. Bake 20-30 minutes at 375-400 degrees until brown and bubbly on top. Remove from oven and serve with your favorite crackers. I usually double the recipe because it is a real crowd pleaser.