My first child was due October 26th and his Father, Bill and I were thrilled about the impending arrival. In the meantime, My ankles swelled along with the rest of my body. I mentioned this to my doctor the head of obstetrics and gynecology at the White Plains Hospital in New York. He pooh poohed it all and the result was that on October 29, 1963 I delivered the placenta at home (placenta previa) and went into shock (it turned out that I had toxemia}. Bill drove me to the hospital and upon our arrival the nurses administered to me. My Parents arrived (Bill's Parent were living in Tehran, Iran) to give us moral support. A while later Dr. Montgomery arrived, dressed in a tuxedo and after an exam said to Bill and I directly quote "I see no reason to cut her open to haul out a dead baby". Maybe he had one cocktail too many since he left the room to sleep until it was delivery time. So I went into labour, knowing something was dreadfully wrong but not aware of what. Gregory William Hankinson was born, they rushed him to an incubator and worked on him. A dear friend of mine, Gloria Donati (Hart) came to visit me at the hospital and just burst into tears. Her presence met the world to me.
It was a wait and see game. I was very weak, frightened and so worried about my precious child. Bill and I had to leave him at the hospital and that was a moment in time I will never forget. We got a prognosis that he would be a "vegetable (from lack of oxegen) and when we finally took him home that was all we could think about as we fed and cuddled our little one. For some reason they could not get a heart beat and when he was born everyone was astonished when he was revived. Can you imagine how we watched over him? At my six week visit to Dr. Montgomery he said (and again I quote verbatim) "Well wasn't that the dammest thing". I learned later that I had high blood pressure which he apparently never picked up on. After five years we were told he would probably have learning difficulties. But our Gregory thrived and except for two eye operations for crossed eyes he flourished. He is my hero. God stepped in and decided he had future plans for our special gift. Gregory has turned out to be the best Son anyone could ask for. He is a college graduate and a bright and kind man. He had a Father who adored him (Bill passed away at the young age of 56 and now Leland has his first Son and loves him as his own.]
Bill and I were in our early twenties and at that time, so grateful to have Gregory that it never occurred to us that we had a case for a law suit. But then again, we were so grateful to have our baby that it truly didn't seem to matter. And, he was a joy to raise. He met each goal that was expected of him at all age levels. How very wrong the doctors' prognosis was, thankfully. He's 6'2" and not only does he make us proud but he makes us laugh and is ALWAYS here for us. He also knows how to talk his Mom out of the blues.
Then, in 1984 Greg was gifted with his little Sister, Laura. I am so very proud of my children and they have been such staunch supporters for me and their Dad through my illness.
Years before we moved to Berlin, Leland, Greg, Laura and I visited Chuck and Diana James in Berlin never realizing that we would one day move there. We also took Greg, Andrea and Laura to Paris and Norway. What fun!
Gregory, Mom loves you with all her heart, thank you for all you do and remember Dad and I are always on your side.
I just finished reading "THE CINDERELLA MURDER by MARY HIGGINS CLARK" WOW!
CRAB SPREAD (another recipe from the Pan Am cookbook)
16 oz cream cheese at room temp
1 T Worcesteshire sauce
1 1/2 t lemon juice
3 T mayo
1T dried chives
Mix above ingredients and spread in pie size dish. Refrigerate over night.Spread 1/2 of 12 oz bottle of Heinz chilli sauce over top Refrigerate for a short time until sauce is firmish. Sprinkle 12 oz can of drained crab over chilli sauce. decorate with fresh parsley. Refigerate at least an hour before serving. Serve with crackers. Garnish with lemon slices
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Sunday, December 7, 2014
BERLIN
Leland, Laura and I were living in Brookfield, Connecticut and Leland was flying out of JFK Airport on European flights. Leland was asked if he would like to relocate to Berlin, West Germany where Pan Am had a base. We discussed it and quickly decided it was a marvelous opportunity. We flew first class to Berlin and it turned out to be a fortuitous flight as we met a dentist and his ex Lufthansa flight attendant wife. They owned an apartment in the Zelendorf section of Berlin and they invited us to look at it as a potential rental. Long story short, we loved it and rented it. We were the only non-Germans but that didn't matter as we met some lovely people dwelling there. It was a wonderful location because Laura and I could be in the town in under ten minutes. Woolworth's was the big attraction. We were also able to shop on the Army base at the PX.
Laura entered kindergarten at the German-American school and thrived there. It was a little eerie being surrounded by the Berlin Wall but we got along beautifully by car, bus and train. We passed through check point Charlie to get to East Berlin which can only be described as going from technicolor to black and white. From smiling faces to sullen faces. A big contrast!
The Pan Amers gravitated to one another and we had a blast! During our two year stay we made some lasting friendships and for a country girl I quickly adapted to city living. We entertained out of town guests, including my Mom on more then one occasion. What a trouper she was as we traveled throughout Germany, Czechoslovachia, Yugoslavia, Austria etc. She was so adventurous and eager to see everything.
Laura flourished in school but like her Mother and Dad did not have an "ear" for the German language. But fortunately most Germans' spoke excellent English.
I was given a surprise 50th birthday party there and in general had a great experience. Then, President Reagan proclaimed "tear down this wall", newscasters descended on Berlin, and bad stuff was happening. We had a security alert from terrorism and school buses had armed guards on them, China had severe problems etc. and people were fleeing into West Germany from Communist countries. Leland made the decision That Laura and I should head home and eventually Pan Am closed the Berlin base and all Pan Amers headed home. But, what a glorious time we had there while it lasted.
"AUF WIEDERSEHEN - Will the last one out please turn off the oven" A collection of recipes from Pan Amers!
CHICKEN GRUYERE (SERVES 4)
4 boneless chicken breast, pounded to 1/4 inch thick
1/2 cup flour
6 T butter
8 green onions, thinly sliced
12-16 fresh mushroom, sliced
1 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
6 oz gruyere cheese
Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Salt and pepper and lightly flour cutlets. Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat. When bubbly, add chicken and brown quickly on each side. Meanwhile slice mushrooms and onions. Remove cutlets when brown, put in baking dish. Add onions and mushrooms to skillet, saute about 2 minutes. Add wine and cream. Cook 2 minutes while stirring. Pour mixture over over cutlets, grate cheese over cutlets. Bake in preheated oven 5-10 minutes. Serve with rice and a nice roasted veggie.\
It is so nice to think about all the adventures we had but frankly folks we are enjoying our peaceful life and living in this lovely community. It is wonderful to look at pictures depicting our stay in Toulouse, France (Laura took her first steps there) our trip to Norway with Laura, Andrea and Greg and many more adventures Now we sit back in our new "perfect sleep recliners" and let our thoughts take us to exotic places. But, really folks, there is no place like HOME! Love to all, Arlene
Laura entered kindergarten at the German-American school and thrived there. It was a little eerie being surrounded by the Berlin Wall but we got along beautifully by car, bus and train. We passed through check point Charlie to get to East Berlin which can only be described as going from technicolor to black and white. From smiling faces to sullen faces. A big contrast!
The Pan Amers gravitated to one another and we had a blast! During our two year stay we made some lasting friendships and for a country girl I quickly adapted to city living. We entertained out of town guests, including my Mom on more then one occasion. What a trouper she was as we traveled throughout Germany, Czechoslovachia, Yugoslavia, Austria etc. She was so adventurous and eager to see everything.
Laura flourished in school but like her Mother and Dad did not have an "ear" for the German language. But fortunately most Germans' spoke excellent English.
I was given a surprise 50th birthday party there and in general had a great experience. Then, President Reagan proclaimed "tear down this wall", newscasters descended on Berlin, and bad stuff was happening. We had a security alert from terrorism and school buses had armed guards on them, China had severe problems etc. and people were fleeing into West Germany from Communist countries. Leland made the decision That Laura and I should head home and eventually Pan Am closed the Berlin base and all Pan Amers headed home. But, what a glorious time we had there while it lasted.
"AUF WIEDERSEHEN - Will the last one out please turn off the oven" A collection of recipes from Pan Amers!
CHICKEN GRUYERE (SERVES 4)
4 boneless chicken breast, pounded to 1/4 inch thick
1/2 cup flour
6 T butter
8 green onions, thinly sliced
12-16 fresh mushroom, sliced
1 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
6 oz gruyere cheese
Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Salt and pepper and lightly flour cutlets. Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat. When bubbly, add chicken and brown quickly on each side. Meanwhile slice mushrooms and onions. Remove cutlets when brown, put in baking dish. Add onions and mushrooms to skillet, saute about 2 minutes. Add wine and cream. Cook 2 minutes while stirring. Pour mixture over over cutlets, grate cheese over cutlets. Bake in preheated oven 5-10 minutes. Serve with rice and a nice roasted veggie.\
It is so nice to think about all the adventures we had but frankly folks we are enjoying our peaceful life and living in this lovely community. It is wonderful to look at pictures depicting our stay in Toulouse, France (Laura took her first steps there) our trip to Norway with Laura, Andrea and Greg and many more adventures Now we sit back in our new "perfect sleep recliners" and let our thoughts take us to exotic places. But, really folks, there is no place like HOME! Love to all, Arlene
Saturday, December 6, 2014
HAPPY HOLIDAYS'
If some of my previous blogs have brought a little humor, reflection, nostalgia, and inspiration into your life then I am truly happy that I have used this venue in a good way. It's been awhile in between blogs and I really don't have a good excuse for the lapse of time. I think it is just called laziness and a lack of a good topic. But, folks it is the holiday season and what better time to reflect on the past.
When I was younger and we were living at my Grandparents' house Christmas was always celebrated there. I also knew that I would ALWAYS receive underwear from my Grandmother! For a very talented and creative person she certainly lacked imagination in the gift giving department. We could, however, always depend on the traditional Christmas dinner: roast beef, yorkshire pudding etc and that was a good thing. Then my four boy cousins and I would go outside and play in the snow. My little Sister was too young to join in the fun. Growing up in the forties and fifties was a no brainer, school, church, the Y, Junior League, Eastern Star etc. All innocent and fun things. I look back now and realize we survived very well without cell phones, computers and all the gadgets that are available now. We learned cursive writing and took pride in our penmanship. We communicated with our friends verbally. I don't remember life being complex at all. Family and friends were and are still important and life seemed so much more simpler and serene. Of course, we weren't Parents then so we didn't worry about our offspring. All that worrying came along with our offspring. But, how grateful we are for them. Along with the worry comes the pride and joys of being a parent.
This year has flown by much too quickly. I reached what I consider a milestone this year; seventy-five! Wow! Leland is now seventy-nine and in June will be eighty. I guess we are considered elderly now but that's okay.
We got the most fabulous news on Thanksgiving Day. Our "baby", Laura got engaged to Joe Galloway and we are so delighted he will become a member of our family and we of his. Life goes on! They will start their own traditions and I hope that Laura will record for her family the history of the Wood and Larson families. She never met either of her Grandfathers but I hope through pictures and the written word she will get a sense of what wonderful men they were. I am not sad writing this - I take that back as I am now teary but in a good way.
There will be no recipe today because I struggled to make a turtle cake today to take to a function tonight and it was exhausting to make, the oven is a mess from overflowing stuff and I realize that baking is no longer fun.
But I can tell you that I just finished reading "THE ESCAPE" BY DAVID BALDACCI and LOVED IT!
Next time there will be a recipe when I get over the post traumatic stress from todays' creation and the oven gets clean!
Love to all! Arlene
When I was younger and we were living at my Grandparents' house Christmas was always celebrated there. I also knew that I would ALWAYS receive underwear from my Grandmother! For a very talented and creative person she certainly lacked imagination in the gift giving department. We could, however, always depend on the traditional Christmas dinner: roast beef, yorkshire pudding etc and that was a good thing. Then my four boy cousins and I would go outside and play in the snow. My little Sister was too young to join in the fun. Growing up in the forties and fifties was a no brainer, school, church, the Y, Junior League, Eastern Star etc. All innocent and fun things. I look back now and realize we survived very well without cell phones, computers and all the gadgets that are available now. We learned cursive writing and took pride in our penmanship. We communicated with our friends verbally. I don't remember life being complex at all. Family and friends were and are still important and life seemed so much more simpler and serene. Of course, we weren't Parents then so we didn't worry about our offspring. All that worrying came along with our offspring. But, how grateful we are for them. Along with the worry comes the pride and joys of being a parent.
This year has flown by much too quickly. I reached what I consider a milestone this year; seventy-five! Wow! Leland is now seventy-nine and in June will be eighty. I guess we are considered elderly now but that's okay.
We got the most fabulous news on Thanksgiving Day. Our "baby", Laura got engaged to Joe Galloway and we are so delighted he will become a member of our family and we of his. Life goes on! They will start their own traditions and I hope that Laura will record for her family the history of the Wood and Larson families. She never met either of her Grandfathers but I hope through pictures and the written word she will get a sense of what wonderful men they were. I am not sad writing this - I take that back as I am now teary but in a good way.
There will be no recipe today because I struggled to make a turtle cake today to take to a function tonight and it was exhausting to make, the oven is a mess from overflowing stuff and I realize that baking is no longer fun.
But I can tell you that I just finished reading "THE ESCAPE" BY DAVID BALDACCI and LOVED IT!
Next time there will be a recipe when I get over the post traumatic stress from todays' creation and the oven gets clean!
Love to all! Arlene
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
I'M BACK!
Hello Friends and Family,
It has been so long since I have written on my blog that I am out practice and not sure how to begin. In the past few months I have had two carpal tunnel surgeries and Leland was diagnosed with macular degeneration and had a successful ablation procedure. So, medical news out of the way lets get to the nitty-grity and tell some stories, share a recipe and a recommendation for good reading.
Firstly, I have had a lot of time to ponder about life, the joys and here and there the tribulations. I look at my beloved husband and there is not a day that goes by that I am not grateful for his love, kindness, support and strength. Leland, you are the best gift I have ever received. It took awhile for us to find one another again but it was sure worth the wait. When we were young, eleven and seven we never even thought about what the future held in store for us. We just went our merry way enjoying the innocence of the young. Playing outside, in all kinds of weather with the neighborhood kids. When I was thirteen I traveled along with Leland's Mother, his Sister, Marilyn and Lee to Chicago. Leland and his Mother shared the driving. They were driving out to Iowa to plan Marilyn's wedding and to drop Leland off at Iowa State. I was left off with my Aunt and Uncle outside of Chicago to spend the summer. My childless Aunt bleached my hair very blond (my Mother never did believe the sun did it). At first I was very sad and weepy because Leland was going to be so far away but my Aunt and Uncle were gracious hosts and I had a lovely visit. At the end of the summer I flew back to New York feeling very sophisticated with my blond hair and a lovely tan.
Everything changed, however, as Leland was gone and at fifteen my family moved away. But, as luck and fate would have it, Leland and I renewed our relationship and the rest is history!
I try not to dwell on my health issue but honestly there are days when I can't help but think what the future holds. So far, so good! As our Son, Greg says to us, enjoy each and every day. We'll do, Sweetie.
I try not to get paranoid about ISIS, ebola etc. but times are really yucky and we sure do hope that the upcoming elections swing in our favor - WE NEED ATTENTIVE and strong leadership! Just vote, folks, please.
Lately, I have devoured each and every one of M. C. Beaton's Agatha Raisin Cotswold mystery story. I buy most of them on Amazon, used for a penny plus postage. They are light and funny reading.
I am not hinting but on November 5th I will turn 75 - egads! How blessed I am to get to that milestone.
Roasted Portobello Mushrooms
1 tablespoon pine nuts
8 portobello mushrooms
l tablespoon lemon juice
4 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves crushed garlic
sea salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
Put the pine nuts in a dry frying pan and cook over a gentle heat until golden. Remove to a plate and set aside. Mix the lemon juice with three tablespoons of water in a bowl. Put the oil, garlic, salt and pepper in another bowl and pour half over the base of a large baking tray Arrange the mushrooms on the tray, open side down in one layer and brush the tops with the rest of the oil. Roast in a preheated 425 degree
oven for 10 minutes, then turn the mushrooms over. Brush their insides with the diluted lemon juice using a pastry brush. Return to the oven and cook for a further five minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with pine nuts and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Well, it is so nice getting back to the blog and just chatting with y'all. Hope you are all well and happy. Much love, Arlene
It has been so long since I have written on my blog that I am out practice and not sure how to begin. In the past few months I have had two carpal tunnel surgeries and Leland was diagnosed with macular degeneration and had a successful ablation procedure. So, medical news out of the way lets get to the nitty-grity and tell some stories, share a recipe and a recommendation for good reading.
Firstly, I have had a lot of time to ponder about life, the joys and here and there the tribulations. I look at my beloved husband and there is not a day that goes by that I am not grateful for his love, kindness, support and strength. Leland, you are the best gift I have ever received. It took awhile for us to find one another again but it was sure worth the wait. When we were young, eleven and seven we never even thought about what the future held in store for us. We just went our merry way enjoying the innocence of the young. Playing outside, in all kinds of weather with the neighborhood kids. When I was thirteen I traveled along with Leland's Mother, his Sister, Marilyn and Lee to Chicago. Leland and his Mother shared the driving. They were driving out to Iowa to plan Marilyn's wedding and to drop Leland off at Iowa State. I was left off with my Aunt and Uncle outside of Chicago to spend the summer. My childless Aunt bleached my hair very blond (my Mother never did believe the sun did it). At first I was very sad and weepy because Leland was going to be so far away but my Aunt and Uncle were gracious hosts and I had a lovely visit. At the end of the summer I flew back to New York feeling very sophisticated with my blond hair and a lovely tan.
Everything changed, however, as Leland was gone and at fifteen my family moved away. But, as luck and fate would have it, Leland and I renewed our relationship and the rest is history!
I try not to dwell on my health issue but honestly there are days when I can't help but think what the future holds. So far, so good! As our Son, Greg says to us, enjoy each and every day. We'll do, Sweetie.
I try not to get paranoid about ISIS, ebola etc. but times are really yucky and we sure do hope that the upcoming elections swing in our favor - WE NEED ATTENTIVE and strong leadership! Just vote, folks, please.
Lately, I have devoured each and every one of M. C. Beaton's Agatha Raisin Cotswold mystery story. I buy most of them on Amazon, used for a penny plus postage. They are light and funny reading.
I am not hinting but on November 5th I will turn 75 - egads! How blessed I am to get to that milestone.
Roasted Portobello Mushrooms
1 tablespoon pine nuts
8 portobello mushrooms
l tablespoon lemon juice
4 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves crushed garlic
sea salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
Put the pine nuts in a dry frying pan and cook over a gentle heat until golden. Remove to a plate and set aside. Mix the lemon juice with three tablespoons of water in a bowl. Put the oil, garlic, salt and pepper in another bowl and pour half over the base of a large baking tray Arrange the mushrooms on the tray, open side down in one layer and brush the tops with the rest of the oil. Roast in a preheated 425 degree
oven for 10 minutes, then turn the mushrooms over. Brush their insides with the diluted lemon juice using a pastry brush. Return to the oven and cook for a further five minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with pine nuts and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Well, it is so nice getting back to the blog and just chatting with y'all. Hope you are all well and happy. Much love, Arlene
Monday, April 28, 2014
HELLO
Life, at times can be very complicated. It isn't always easy to navigate through life without coming to a roadblock or two in our way. (I know that I have mentioned that topic of conversation before). Complete satisfaction in everything that is going on in our lives at the same time is not always obtainable. So, we do the best we can under circumstances out of our control. At the moment I am trying to "snap out of" the "woe is me" stage I am in. Believe you me I count my blessings and thank God for the wonderful progress I have made. But, I am writing this with a brace on my thumb and the pain of carpal tunnel and arthritis making me uncomfortable. But, as you can read I am doing the best I can. Thank goodness for the delete tab! I know that in the not too distant future I will have to make a decision to have surgery. Not a pleasant decision! But, it will also depend on what the doctors' decide. Time will tell. Stay tuned!
On a happy note we had a delightful weekend joining some friends for our monthly get together. The men tell jokes, talk about sports and politics. The women gab about all sorts of topics. We do try and not focus on medical conditions and we all get gussed up. It's fun and it also makes us realize how many wonderful friends we have here. I brought my peach surprise dessert from an earlier blog and it seemed to be a hit.
Laura and Joe spent the weekend in Charleston with their best friends, Kate and Alec. They went fishing and much to their dismay Laura and Kate caught stingrays. UGH! The men caught fish but released them. They had such a terrific visit. They are home "safe and sound". That makes Mama happy!
Up in New York my great nephew, Jack celebrated his first birthday (with Grandma Centre in attendance) with a crowd of children and adults at a restaurant catering to childrens' parties in Riverdale. The food was supplied from a restaurant on Arthur Ave. (Little Italy) in N.Y.C. They all had a blast! Jack was all dressed up complete with a bow tie and just smiled away. He has a doting family and as a result is a VERY happy child.
I just got back from a walk (7:30p.m.) What perfect weather; a slight breeze and no sun beating down on me. The grass is starting to turn green, the trees are abloom and a hint of a floral scent wafted through the air from the budding shrubs. All of a sudden, all was right with the world and my little troubles floated up, up and away, I guess getting a little exercise mentally makes me feel better. I must get in the habit of taking a walk, weather permitting every evening.
We are looking forward to Greg's visit this week. He's been great taking me out to do errands when necessary. Which reminds me how anxious I am to drive again so that I can reciprocate the kindness of all who take me here and there. Thanks all!
I am reading "THE TARGET" by David Baldacci and truly enjoying it.
I'm too lazy to go back through all of my old recipes so I am hoping that this is not a repeat.
HAWAIIAN NUT SANDWICHES (makes 12 dozen party sandwiches
1/4 cup evaporated milk
2 (8oz) pkg cream cheese, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
1/4 chopped pecans
Blend milk and cheese together. Add pineapple and nuts. Blend well. Good on orange or raisin bread as well as thin white bread. I think this is a great recipe for a ladies' tea.
Have a great week and stay happy and healthy. There are many of you in my prayers. Love, Arlene
On a happy note we had a delightful weekend joining some friends for our monthly get together. The men tell jokes, talk about sports and politics. The women gab about all sorts of topics. We do try and not focus on medical conditions and we all get gussed up. It's fun and it also makes us realize how many wonderful friends we have here. I brought my peach surprise dessert from an earlier blog and it seemed to be a hit.
Laura and Joe spent the weekend in Charleston with their best friends, Kate and Alec. They went fishing and much to their dismay Laura and Kate caught stingrays. UGH! The men caught fish but released them. They had such a terrific visit. They are home "safe and sound". That makes Mama happy!
Up in New York my great nephew, Jack celebrated his first birthday (with Grandma Centre in attendance) with a crowd of children and adults at a restaurant catering to childrens' parties in Riverdale. The food was supplied from a restaurant on Arthur Ave. (Little Italy) in N.Y.C. They all had a blast! Jack was all dressed up complete with a bow tie and just smiled away. He has a doting family and as a result is a VERY happy child.
I just got back from a walk (7:30p.m.) What perfect weather; a slight breeze and no sun beating down on me. The grass is starting to turn green, the trees are abloom and a hint of a floral scent wafted through the air from the budding shrubs. All of a sudden, all was right with the world and my little troubles floated up, up and away, I guess getting a little exercise mentally makes me feel better. I must get in the habit of taking a walk, weather permitting every evening.
We are looking forward to Greg's visit this week. He's been great taking me out to do errands when necessary. Which reminds me how anxious I am to drive again so that I can reciprocate the kindness of all who take me here and there. Thanks all!
I am reading "THE TARGET" by David Baldacci and truly enjoying it.
I'm too lazy to go back through all of my old recipes so I am hoping that this is not a repeat.
HAWAIIAN NUT SANDWICHES (makes 12 dozen party sandwiches
1/4 cup evaporated milk
2 (8oz) pkg cream cheese, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
1/4 chopped pecans
Blend milk and cheese together. Add pineapple and nuts. Blend well. Good on orange or raisin bread as well as thin white bread. I think this is a great recipe for a ladies' tea.
Have a great week and stay happy and healthy. There are many of you in my prayers. Love, Arlene
Monday, April 21, 2014
CARING
We are constantly getting emails which we, for the most part dutifully read. Some make us laugh, others provoke anger at what is happening to our country and some touch our hearts and put everything that is happening in our lives, in perspective. Leland and I read about a young man who lost both arms and both legs fighting for our country. He came home to his girlfriend who remained by his side during his recovery. She remained faithful while he coped with the reality of his situation. Obviously, he was not the same young man when he came home. His girlfriend would carry him on her back up the staircase and whenever it was appropriate. This couple got married, he with his new prosthetics and she a picture in white. They approached the future with enthusiasm. How brave! Their's is not the only story. Have we forgotten our wounded warriors and their families? Are enough thoughts, prayers and help going their way. Remember how ill-treated our Vietnam veterans were treated. Remember Jane Fonda? How can anyone give her "the time of day". She is and always will be a traitor in my eyes.
Reading that email put so much in perspective for me personally. That young man and others like him make my situation seem trivial in comparison. Let's make a decision to thank these young man and woman in uniform and to keep them in our daily prayers. Let's thank the doctor' and caretakers who help them. Let's hope that they get the help and counseling they need to rejoin society and let's let them know we are proud of their service to our Country and we love each and everyone of them. God Bless them! And finally I hope our government treats them with dignity and makes our armed force the strongest in the world - whatever it takes!
Just a note: Our Easter dinner was fabulous! and several of our Husbands' in attendance served in Vietnam and/or the armed services. They too, have our thanks.
Have a wonderful week, Arlene
Thanks to Bonnie Rossner this recipe is the VERY best dessert I have ever had.
STRAWBERRY PRETZEL DESSERT
2 cups of finely crushed pretzel sticks
3/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 of an 8oz package cream cheese softened
4T, plus 1 t of strawberry gelatin (out of a 3 oz pkg
2 cups whipping cream, divided
1/3 cup granulated sugar
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together first three ingredients, firmly press on bottom , up sides and
onto lip of lightly greased 10 inch pie plate. Bake about 10 minutes. Remove from oven onto a wire rack and cool completely (about 30 min). Process strawberries in a food processor or chop by hand. Beat condensed milk and next two ingredients at medium speed with a electric mixer until smooth. Add strawberries, beat at low speed until blended. Transfer to a large bowl. Beat 3/4 cup of the whipping cream at high speed until soft peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into strawberry mixture. Spoon into prepared crust and spread evenly. Cover and freeze for 8 to 12 hours. Beat remaining 1 1/4 cups whipping cream at high speed until foamy; gradually add sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over pie. Freeze 1 hour until whipping cream is frozen. Keep in freezer until 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Southern Living - June 2012. Thanks again Bonnie!
Reading that email put so much in perspective for me personally. That young man and others like him make my situation seem trivial in comparison. Let's make a decision to thank these young man and woman in uniform and to keep them in our daily prayers. Let's thank the doctor' and caretakers who help them. Let's hope that they get the help and counseling they need to rejoin society and let's let them know we are proud of their service to our Country and we love each and everyone of them. God Bless them! And finally I hope our government treats them with dignity and makes our armed force the strongest in the world - whatever it takes!
Just a note: Our Easter dinner was fabulous! and several of our Husbands' in attendance served in Vietnam and/or the armed services. They too, have our thanks.
Have a wonderful week, Arlene
Thanks to Bonnie Rossner this recipe is the VERY best dessert I have ever had.
STRAWBERRY PRETZEL DESSERT
2 cups of finely crushed pretzel sticks
3/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 of an 8oz package cream cheese softened
4T, plus 1 t of strawberry gelatin (out of a 3 oz pkg
2 cups whipping cream, divided
1/3 cup granulated sugar
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together first three ingredients, firmly press on bottom , up sides and
onto lip of lightly greased 10 inch pie plate. Bake about 10 minutes. Remove from oven onto a wire rack and cool completely (about 30 min). Process strawberries in a food processor or chop by hand. Beat condensed milk and next two ingredients at medium speed with a electric mixer until smooth. Add strawberries, beat at low speed until blended. Transfer to a large bowl. Beat 3/4 cup of the whipping cream at high speed until soft peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into strawberry mixture. Spoon into prepared crust and spread evenly. Cover and freeze for 8 to 12 hours. Beat remaining 1 1/4 cups whipping cream at high speed until foamy; gradually add sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over pie. Freeze 1 hour until whipping cream is frozen. Keep in freezer until 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Southern Living - June 2012. Thanks again Bonnie!
Sunday, April 20, 2014
EASTER AND PASSOVER
I want to take a moment to wish all of our family and friends a very Happy Easter and a very Happy Passover. Today we will be going over to our dear friends, Pat and Tommy Demetriou for Easter supper along with some additional neighbors. We are most thankful to be able to celebrate this joyous holiday and we truly do appreciate the meaning of Easter. It also evokes fond memories from my childhood. I would wake up Easter morning to find a basket full of goodies next to my bed. Yummy. After breakfast I would embark on a hunt for beautifully colored eggs. After putting on my lovely new dress and bonnet, the family would go to church. And perhaps we would visit with relatives later in the day.
The visit with Victoria and Preston passed all too quickly but a a lot was packed into the three and a half days. Victoria and Preston and Leland went to see " "Heaven is For Real" (they all loved it) on Wednesday while I played bridge ( and won!) We then went to the Redeemer Church for dinner and as always enjoyed the food and chatting with our neighbors. Thursday Vikki and I galavanted and Preston and Grandpa went shooting with Tommy D. Greg joined us for dinner that evening. We had such a good visit and loved hearing Preston and Vikki play the keyboard. Grandpa and Grammy are quite the proud Grandparents! We appreciated the fact that they took the time to drive down from Virginia. They spent Friday evening at Laura's and Joe's and the four of them had a terrific time. Now, we are so excited that our wonderful friends June and John will be coming toward the end of May.
It's so incredible that April is going by so quickly. I know it sounds ridiculous but summer is almost upon us. I am not big fan of hot weather or sleeveless clothes. Who likes to see ones arms flapping! And, I always have to lather up with sunscreen before venturing out. I am a shade and breeze seeker. As a teenager I loved being tan but as an adult I strive to stay out of the blazing sun. Hats, here I come again.
I have been walking and find that I have more energy. That is a very good thing. But, I do recognize when I get tired and take the time to rest. Pills are the culprit for my tiredness. A side effect that I will just have to live with. I am happy to do that if they help keeping me well and seizure free.
As I have mentioned on numerous occasions I am quite content spending the day with Leland. Thank goodness we have each other. I just adore being with him!
Going to read "Tempting Fate" by Jane Green.
Victoria brought a dip that she made and it is so delicious I am sharing her recipe with y'all.
Black Bean Salsa
2 cans black beans
2 cans Rotel chunky
1 can shoe peg corn
1 red onion, chopped
3 tomatilla tomatoes (skin removed) chopped
6 T lime juice
1 T cumin
1 T chopped garlic
chopped cilantro to taste (can use cilantro paste in a tube)
1 T olive oil
Mix together and chill. Serve with pita chips or tortilla chips
God Bless you one and all. Love, Arlene
The visit with Victoria and Preston passed all too quickly but a a lot was packed into the three and a half days. Victoria and Preston and Leland went to see " "Heaven is For Real" (they all loved it) on Wednesday while I played bridge ( and won!) We then went to the Redeemer Church for dinner and as always enjoyed the food and chatting with our neighbors. Thursday Vikki and I galavanted and Preston and Grandpa went shooting with Tommy D. Greg joined us for dinner that evening. We had such a good visit and loved hearing Preston and Vikki play the keyboard. Grandpa and Grammy are quite the proud Grandparents! We appreciated the fact that they took the time to drive down from Virginia. They spent Friday evening at Laura's and Joe's and the four of them had a terrific time. Now, we are so excited that our wonderful friends June and John will be coming toward the end of May.
It's so incredible that April is going by so quickly. I know it sounds ridiculous but summer is almost upon us. I am not big fan of hot weather or sleeveless clothes. Who likes to see ones arms flapping! And, I always have to lather up with sunscreen before venturing out. I am a shade and breeze seeker. As a teenager I loved being tan but as an adult I strive to stay out of the blazing sun. Hats, here I come again.
I have been walking and find that I have more energy. That is a very good thing. But, I do recognize when I get tired and take the time to rest. Pills are the culprit for my tiredness. A side effect that I will just have to live with. I am happy to do that if they help keeping me well and seizure free.
As I have mentioned on numerous occasions I am quite content spending the day with Leland. Thank goodness we have each other. I just adore being with him!
Going to read "Tempting Fate" by Jane Green.
Victoria brought a dip that she made and it is so delicious I am sharing her recipe with y'all.
Black Bean Salsa
2 cans black beans
2 cans Rotel chunky
1 can shoe peg corn
1 red onion, chopped
3 tomatilla tomatoes (skin removed) chopped
6 T lime juice
1 T cumin
1 T chopped garlic
chopped cilantro to taste (can use cilantro paste in a tube)
1 T olive oil
Mix together and chill. Serve with pita chips or tortilla chips
God Bless you one and all. Love, Arlene
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
FICKLE
Leland is at poker (Reagan is sitting by the front door waiting for his return) and I am "doing a little, sitting a little". You remember my Mother's adage. It is chilly out today so I am snuggled up. Victoria, our eldest and Preston are driving down from Virginia and are expected around 5:30 pm. It has been well over a year since we last saw them so we expect to see quite a change in our teenage Grandson. They, of course, will see quite a change in me, post surgery. Except for getting tired very easily, a consequence of all my medications, I am doing quite well.
Someone mentioned to me that meditation is very theraputic. I have tried it and found that when I try to close my mind off, things continually pop into my head: i.e. we need bread, I really need to do this or that, it's so and sos' birthday etc. Maybe I should pick up a book at the library on chanting! Perhaps that will put me in a concentrated frame of mind. But then, I would realize that my chanting is not on key and that will spoil everything.
I have a variety of faults but my most blatant one is that is I go from doing one chore to another before completing the first task. At the moment the living room rug is half vacuumed. I decided I needed to update my blog. Clothes that need to be folded and put away are folded but then I run (make that waddle) to do another thing that pops into my mind. I suddenly need to clean the inside of the micro-wave. And, y'all know about my decorating habits and that I go back and forth on Ebay (I'm back!) A psychologist would consider me a gold mine. "Honey, you know that screen porch you have always wanted, please call the builder". Obviously, I am a fickle task doer and sometimes that puts me in a pickle when guests are arriving. I need to focus on one thing at a time. But at 74 years of age I truly think I am hopeless. For all my life I have been this way and for me it is definitely too late to change. I eventually get things done, but I do them at my own speed called a snail's pace.
The only reason I don't leave my blog and go put on nail polish (which I really need to do) is because I am not quite sure how to save the blog and don't want to publish it half done. This I stick to out of fear!
I am reading M.C. Beaton's latest book: "Death of a Policeman". I am halfway through it - of course! There were things that needed doing in between. But, it's a great book. And, oh yes, I had a lovely chat with my wonderful and caring Cousin, Joan today. She always checks up on me. Thank you!
Coconut Shrimp Dip
Honestly I have never made this recipes but I came across it in my Recipe box and it sounds intriguing. I adore curry so I am going to take a chance on it. Good luck!
1/2 cup cooked baby shrimp
2 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup shredded coconut
dash pepper
1 cup sour cream
l teaspoon curry powder (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix all ingredients and served chilled with crackers or thinly sliced french bread. Or, maybe you have a better serving idea?
Have a lovely week, Love, Arlene
Someone mentioned to me that meditation is very theraputic. I have tried it and found that when I try to close my mind off, things continually pop into my head: i.e. we need bread, I really need to do this or that, it's so and sos' birthday etc. Maybe I should pick up a book at the library on chanting! Perhaps that will put me in a concentrated frame of mind. But then, I would realize that my chanting is not on key and that will spoil everything.
I have a variety of faults but my most blatant one is that is I go from doing one chore to another before completing the first task. At the moment the living room rug is half vacuumed. I decided I needed to update my blog. Clothes that need to be folded and put away are folded but then I run (make that waddle) to do another thing that pops into my mind. I suddenly need to clean the inside of the micro-wave. And, y'all know about my decorating habits and that I go back and forth on Ebay (I'm back!) A psychologist would consider me a gold mine. "Honey, you know that screen porch you have always wanted, please call the builder". Obviously, I am a fickle task doer and sometimes that puts me in a pickle when guests are arriving. I need to focus on one thing at a time. But at 74 years of age I truly think I am hopeless. For all my life I have been this way and for me it is definitely too late to change. I eventually get things done, but I do them at my own speed called a snail's pace.
The only reason I don't leave my blog and go put on nail polish (which I really need to do) is because I am not quite sure how to save the blog and don't want to publish it half done. This I stick to out of fear!
I am reading M.C. Beaton's latest book: "Death of a Policeman". I am halfway through it - of course! There were things that needed doing in between. But, it's a great book. And, oh yes, I had a lovely chat with my wonderful and caring Cousin, Joan today. She always checks up on me. Thank you!
Coconut Shrimp Dip
Honestly I have never made this recipes but I came across it in my Recipe box and it sounds intriguing. I adore curry so I am going to take a chance on it. Good luck!
1/2 cup cooked baby shrimp
2 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup shredded coconut
dash pepper
1 cup sour cream
l teaspoon curry powder (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix all ingredients and served chilled with crackers or thinly sliced french bread. Or, maybe you have a better serving idea?
Have a lovely week, Love, Arlene
Friday, April 11, 2014
BLOOMIN!
When we moved to Georgia over twenty years ago I remember someone saying to me, "if you have never had allergies you will get them eventually". Well, eventually is NOW! Leland took me to Dr. Bozof again yesterday (I hope he doesn't think I have a crush on him!) because I have been coughing etc. for over two weeks. Well, I am now on medication for allergies! My medicine takes up an entire shelf in the kitchen and I need to have all my faculties to figure out the timing of everything. Well, it could be worse - I truly thought I had bronchitis. Now, getting back to my allergies: the beautiful trees that are in bloom that I have been oohing over are now the bane of my existence and the yellow pollen hasn't even made an appearance yet - phooey!
We are looking forward to our eldest Daughter, Victoria and her Son, Preston's visit. They will arrive late Tuesday afternoon. Preston is on spring break and Grandpa and I are flattered that he wants to spend the time with us. We are proud of this young man, now a teenager.
I am over my blue and white buying phase because quite frankly, I have run out of space to put another objet d' art. I am glad that Leland hasn't gotten a hernia from carrying up all the boxes from our mailbox kiosk. But, I must say I am enjoying all of my purchases.
For awhile (maybe a minute or two) my appetite decreased and I actually had them pack up half of my lunch at our last luncheon. Truly, a first for me. But, lo and behold it has come back and I actually ate an entire pizza last night. I said to Leland, "please never let me do that again!". I am really trying to cut down on sugary things which I dearly love. What's the difference between pudgy and chubby? I guess they both mean FAT! I am thinking that putting on a bathing suit this summer is not an option.
I am going to email, Stuart WOODS and give him what for. His last two books slandered Fox news (my personal favorite) and he has turned Stone Barrington into a sex machine and his plots are so similar. So instead of recommending a author to read, I am recommending him as a author NOT to read. But, this is America so you make your own decision.
MARY'S CARROT SOUFFLE
1 pound fresh carrots
1/2 cup melted butter
3 eggs
1/4 cup sugar
3 T all purpose flour
1 t baking powder
2 t vanilla
Cook carrot until tender in small amount of boiling water. Put carrots and butter in a blender, blend. Add remaining ingredients. Blend until smooth. Spoon into lightly greased caserole and bake at 350 degree 45 minutes or until firm.
Have a lovely weekend folks. Love, Arlene
Monday, April 7, 2014
VISIT
My Sister came to visit on March 26th Through April 2nd. It had been a year since her last visit when she came down to help me after my surgery. She also was a wonderful help this time, taking me here and there and just generally being a great comfort. She also went to Dr. Bozof with Leland and I to get the bone scan report. Laura, Joe and Greg spent quality time with her. They love their Auntie! She sensed when I needed to rest and just sat and read. We also redecorated! There is positively no one like a beloved Sister! I love her to pieces and can't wait to see her again real soon.
THE LAKE
I meandered through the pine forest breathing in the fresh scent and enjoying the warm sun shining from above. I could hear the rustling of small creatures seeking substance. I was dressed in a lightweight floral dress that seemed to belong to a different time. Eventually I came to a crystal clear lake. It sparkled from the reflected sun and I just knew that the fish were darting back and forth beneath its surface. As I got nearer I heard the sound of laughter and joy that comes from people who are having a wonderful day. They sat in Adirondack chairs and seemed amused to see a stranger. They were my family from my youth. I recognized one and all. I went over to Aunt Vivian and Uncle Jack to say hello. They hadn't changed a bit since the last time that I had seen them but I could see the confusion in their faces when I said, "hi, it's me, Arlene." Oh, of course, I can see that it is you Dear but you are old now! And one by one I approached my relatives to say hello and told them how much I missed them and related the fond memories I had of our times together. At each approach, my step got lighter, my hair darkened and my wrinkles disappeared. My heart was filled with joy at each encounter. I saw Aunt Gertrude who had passed away the day after my family and I had visited her at the hospital, from a brain tumor. I told her, that I too, had a brain tumor. She placed her hand on my head and said, "you will be just fine, Dearie". Uncle Alfred, was sitting next to Daddy talking about fishing until I interrupted their conversation. "Well, look who is here, Daddy said, my Sweetie Pie. "Hi Daddy, I miss you and Mommy so much. "We are just fine, living in a gated community surrounded by friends and family, Now go and say hello to your Mother, she is over there with Grandma and Grandpa. They will be so happy to see you." Now there you are my darling Daughter, we know all about your life, your trials and tribulations, your accomplishments and your joys and sorrows. All of us have watched over you with pride in how you have conducted your life." You and your Sister have made us proud! As usual, Aunt Edith said"I had put on a bit of weight" Her usual comment to me. We had such a delightful day sharing tales of the past. But, slowly the sun began to fade and just as slowly my family, one by one faded away. I reversed my steps and with a smile on my again aging face I found my way back home, holding deep in my heart the memories of the wonderful conversations I had with my beloved family. I feel so strongly that they are helping to guide me through life and when this life is over as I know it, they will be waiting for me with open arms. Isn't it wonderful that there is always something to look forward to!? But first there is that Viking River cruise, dinners out with friends, bridge games, visits to Charlotte, etc. and a dinner party at which I will serve this easy casserole recipe.
1-2-3 CASSEROLE
In a dutch oven in order given:
3 lbs. lean beef, cubed
2 cans golden mushroom soup, undiluted
1 envelope dry onion soup
Cook at 325 degrees in oven for 1-2 hours
Serve over rice or noodles. For company stir in a small carton of sour cream.
1-2-3 CASSEROLE
In a dutch oven in order given:
3 lbs. lean beef, cubed
2 cans golden mushroom soup, undiluted
1 envelope dry onion soup
Cook at 325 degrees in oven for 1-2 hours
Serve over rice or noodles. For company stir in a small carton of sour cream.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
A YEAR!
A year ago today I had brain surgery and the majority of an aggressive tumor removed. I can't tell you how thankful I am for the past year. I don't know what the future holds for me, I do know that I am not the same woman I was two years ago. I walk and wobble somewhat, I tire easily, I cry more frequently and my life has turned topsy turvy with the not knowing what the future holds in store for me. I think that is a very typical reaction for anyone who is suffering from an illness. I thank God for the past year and I pray for more time to spend with family and friends.
On the bright side, I celebrated today by going to see "NON STOP" (I think it might be some time before I step foot on an airplane!) with some friends and then out to coffee with my wonderful Husband. I took a walk and am finding that my energy is slowly returning. That doesn't mean I am ready to conquer Mt Everest! Maybe my body is adjusting to the new pills. It's a day to be thankful for the treatment I received and for Dr. Olson (the surgeon) and for Dr. Crocker (the radiologist) at Emory Hospital.
We went out to dinner with some of our friends the other night and all we did was laugh! Don M. told a tale from his adventure as a wheelchair volunteer at the local hospital. He delivers patients following their out patient surgery to the curb in the wheelchair where they are met by a family or friend. I am still laughing over his latest tale. Apparently, the elderly wife was gone for quite some time unable to remember where she parked their car. It turns out that the patient is a new member of our community. Don also delivers "meals on wheels" every week. What a kind and decent man he is. But mostly he is funny!
Remember when we thought 50 was ancient! Well it isn't any longer! Leland and I are on the older side in our 55 and older community at 78 and 74 respectively. Weren't we in our twenties the day before yesterday? I find looking in the mirror quite an experience. I hardly recognize myself and what in the world happened to that shapely figure I used to have? Most of it has headed south and is hidden beneath - alright I'll come out with it - FAT! It is shocking this aging process! Often I will go into a room to get a specific item only to arrive there to realize I have forgotten what I wanted. I know people call these senior moments. So, I retrace my thought process and go back to my starting position. At least I am getting a bit of exercise.
I have decided that all the age defying creams, oils, lotions are such are a total waste of good money. I think it is all in the genes. I used to spend a bundle on eye depuffing creams until I finally and wisely realized I got the puffiness from my Mom. Wrinkles are earned and really aren't they a product of smiling a lot? People who over botox, have face lifts, etc are trying to stay younger longer. I think that's great but don't over do it. Joan Rivers and Bruce Jenner are you reading this? And, Meg Ryan you USED to be so adorable. I want to age elegantly and hope that people still recognize me when I am elderly if only by my smile!
Folks, you have been such troopers going through the past year with me and this medical saga. Thanks for everything and for the joy you have brought into my life. You have been my life raft in the rough seas of the past year. Believe me your prayers have saved me thus far. Please keep them up. It's also amazing how little things have brought me joy, a good book, a good joke, a good TV program or a movie. I am comfy in my home with Leland and love seeing family and friends. I really don't need anything but I do want to heal. That is entirely out of my hands, I am in God's hands. I just want to keep on smiling!
HAM AND CHEESE CRESCENTS
1 8oz pkg crescent rolls
8 slices good quality boiled ham
8 teaspoons orange marmalade
1/2 cup grated monterey jack cheese
Separate rolls into 8 triangles, according to pkg directions. Place one slice ham on each triangle folding to fit. Spread with marmalade and sprinkle with cheese. Roll triangles according to pkg directions. Place on ungreased cookie heet. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes. I suppose you could replace cheese with one you might like better.
Reading Stuart Woods book called "Standup Guy". Wouldn't rate it a four star, more of a 2 1/2 unless you are an avid fan of the author.
Have a terrific weekend. Love, Arlene
On the bright side, I celebrated today by going to see "NON STOP" (I think it might be some time before I step foot on an airplane!) with some friends and then out to coffee with my wonderful Husband. I took a walk and am finding that my energy is slowly returning. That doesn't mean I am ready to conquer Mt Everest! Maybe my body is adjusting to the new pills. It's a day to be thankful for the treatment I received and for Dr. Olson (the surgeon) and for Dr. Crocker (the radiologist) at Emory Hospital.
We went out to dinner with some of our friends the other night and all we did was laugh! Don M. told a tale from his adventure as a wheelchair volunteer at the local hospital. He delivers patients following their out patient surgery to the curb in the wheelchair where they are met by a family or friend. I am still laughing over his latest tale. Apparently, the elderly wife was gone for quite some time unable to remember where she parked their car. It turns out that the patient is a new member of our community. Don also delivers "meals on wheels" every week. What a kind and decent man he is. But mostly he is funny!
Remember when we thought 50 was ancient! Well it isn't any longer! Leland and I are on the older side in our 55 and older community at 78 and 74 respectively. Weren't we in our twenties the day before yesterday? I find looking in the mirror quite an experience. I hardly recognize myself and what in the world happened to that shapely figure I used to have? Most of it has headed south and is hidden beneath - alright I'll come out with it - FAT! It is shocking this aging process! Often I will go into a room to get a specific item only to arrive there to realize I have forgotten what I wanted. I know people call these senior moments. So, I retrace my thought process and go back to my starting position. At least I am getting a bit of exercise.
I have decided that all the age defying creams, oils, lotions are such are a total waste of good money. I think it is all in the genes. I used to spend a bundle on eye depuffing creams until I finally and wisely realized I got the puffiness from my Mom. Wrinkles are earned and really aren't they a product of smiling a lot? People who over botox, have face lifts, etc are trying to stay younger longer. I think that's great but don't over do it. Joan Rivers and Bruce Jenner are you reading this? And, Meg Ryan you USED to be so adorable. I want to age elegantly and hope that people still recognize me when I am elderly if only by my smile!
Folks, you have been such troopers going through the past year with me and this medical saga. Thanks for everything and for the joy you have brought into my life. You have been my life raft in the rough seas of the past year. Believe me your prayers have saved me thus far. Please keep them up. It's also amazing how little things have brought me joy, a good book, a good joke, a good TV program or a movie. I am comfy in my home with Leland and love seeing family and friends. I really don't need anything but I do want to heal. That is entirely out of my hands, I am in God's hands. I just want to keep on smiling!
HAM AND CHEESE CRESCENTS
1 8oz pkg crescent rolls
8 slices good quality boiled ham
8 teaspoons orange marmalade
1/2 cup grated monterey jack cheese
Separate rolls into 8 triangles, according to pkg directions. Place one slice ham on each triangle folding to fit. Spread with marmalade and sprinkle with cheese. Roll triangles according to pkg directions. Place on ungreased cookie heet. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes. I suppose you could replace cheese with one you might like better.
Reading Stuart Woods book called "Standup Guy". Wouldn't rate it a four star, more of a 2 1/2 unless you are an avid fan of the author.
Have a terrific weekend. Love, Arlene
Thursday, March 13, 2014
MYSTERY
I have often thought that I would like to write a mystery. Who would I kill off? What weapon would be used? I really don't know much about snake venom or poisons and how would the victim react to these methods. Would they foam at the mouth, look aghast or just gently fade away? My mystery would have to take place long before forensics, and weapon identification tools and DNA. I would have my murderer kill the victim with a spade in the barn with the cows bellowing in the barn. Of course, it would be the wife of the abusive farmer. Now you tell me, would you buy this book? I surely would not!
Look at Mary Higgins Clark. She started writing in her fifties to support five children. She now lives in a fancy dancy estate in New Jersey and has oodles of money and emeralds. Now her Daughter is following in the footsteps of her famous Mother. I think to myself that just because I love reading mysteries doesn't mean I can sit down and write one. Honestly, I get more fatigued just thinking of it. But believe me I have often thought it would be wonderful to be the new Agatha Christie and create another character similar to Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple. Oh, I forgot to mention that my mysteries would take place in the Cotswolds. But, there's a catch, I have never been there! I guess I could imagine an English barn and a timbered cottage and a poker from a huge fireplace as a weapon. Of course, it would be a best seller and turn into a series of books and then a film. TJ Maxx here I come!
It all sounds lovely and financially rewarding but I realize I am already writing a story on this very blog. A love story with a little bit of history thrown in. It will not be a best seller but hopefully it will be something my family, those I know and those that are yet to be born will read and know just a little about their relatives. This is my legacy to my loved ones. I keep trying to dredge up the past in my head because I know I am leaving out quite a bit, But, there is some stuff I prefer to keep to myself. So folks, I am not done yet, elections are coming up to comment on, I have new recipes to share and unfortunately more doctor appointments coming up, places to go, and just maybe I will tell a tale or two when I misbehaved - just a tiny, tiny bit!
SPINACH CASSEROLE
2 T butter cubed
12 oz cottage cheese
3 eggs, beaten
1 pkg frozen chopped spinach, cooked and drained well
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, swiss etc)
garlic powder
cheetez crackers, crushed
Mix first six ingredients and put into greased baking dish. Top with crushed cheetez crackers. I normally double the recipe and put into a 9 by 11 dish.
Look at Mary Higgins Clark. She started writing in her fifties to support five children. She now lives in a fancy dancy estate in New Jersey and has oodles of money and emeralds. Now her Daughter is following in the footsteps of her famous Mother. I think to myself that just because I love reading mysteries doesn't mean I can sit down and write one. Honestly, I get more fatigued just thinking of it. But believe me I have often thought it would be wonderful to be the new Agatha Christie and create another character similar to Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple. Oh, I forgot to mention that my mysteries would take place in the Cotswolds. But, there's a catch, I have never been there! I guess I could imagine an English barn and a timbered cottage and a poker from a huge fireplace as a weapon. Of course, it would be a best seller and turn into a series of books and then a film. TJ Maxx here I come!
It all sounds lovely and financially rewarding but I realize I am already writing a story on this very blog. A love story with a little bit of history thrown in. It will not be a best seller but hopefully it will be something my family, those I know and those that are yet to be born will read and know just a little about their relatives. This is my legacy to my loved ones. I keep trying to dredge up the past in my head because I know I am leaving out quite a bit, But, there is some stuff I prefer to keep to myself. So folks, I am not done yet, elections are coming up to comment on, I have new recipes to share and unfortunately more doctor appointments coming up, places to go, and just maybe I will tell a tale or two when I misbehaved - just a tiny, tiny bit!
SPINACH CASSEROLE
2 T butter cubed
12 oz cottage cheese
3 eggs, beaten
1 pkg frozen chopped spinach, cooked and drained well
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, swiss etc)
garlic powder
cheetez crackers, crushed
Mix first six ingredients and put into greased baking dish. Top with crushed cheetez crackers. I normally double the recipe and put into a 9 by 11 dish.
Monday, March 10, 2014
SPRING
When I was in elementary, middle school and high school I never went on a spring break. I never knew they existed!. I knew that several of my friends would go to Florida with their families for beach and family time. In winter some families would go to the ski slopes. We never had the luxury of European trips, skiing or beach travel. That all came later when Leland came back into my life and it was all appreciated and I savored every minute of it. The lack of these teenage adventures never bothered me because my friends and I were always enjoying ourselves, particularly our train trips into New York City. It was a magical place, so culturally diverse and architecturally beautiful.We didn't text one another walking side by side we actually talked to one another. We played soft ball, badminton, walked in the stream across the street from our house, catching and releasing baby frogs, traveled by bus into our little city of Mt. Vernon to window shop. went to the orchards to pick pears some of which we consumed right there. Our exercise was WALKING! There were no treadmills and other pain inducing machines in the 40's or early 50's. We climbed trees and did cart wheels in the fields. We watched the flowers bloom and heard the robins sing as spring began. We helped plant the seeds in the vegetable garden and were thrilled to see the beginnings of a carrot, a head of lettuce, etc. When summer arrived and report cards announced that we would advance to a higher grade we made our way to the beach and often played volley ball there. And, we flirted with the cute life guards (Leland was one of the cute ones!) Remember this was the time of innocence and sports activity.
At fifteen I worked at the local stationary store after school and on Saturdays, saving my salary for that little Henry J I eventually bought because I needed transportation from the "middle of nowhere". Actually Purchase was a little piece of Heaven for Carole-Anne and I. My sweet sixteen party was held in our front yard and we all had a ball! My engagement party was held there as well as my baby shower for Greg. Oh, the stories that yard could tell!
I had a curfew when I lived there and when my date and I were "saying" goodnight the front porch light would come on. Either Dad or Mom had being eyeing the clock. If I was somewhere with several of my friends and having the "best" time I would call home and ask for a bit more time. My Parents always said yes because they knew I was a responsible young lady. Many parties took place in that front yard with family and friends. Lots of food, much of which was newly plucked from Daddy's luscious garden. Everyone was welcomed and laughter was a main ingredient in the conversations.
I know that you all know by now that I had a wonderful childhood thanks to two giving, unselfish and loving Parents. In a way, as much as I miss them, and I miss them terribly I would not want them to have been privy to my health issue. It would have broken their hearts and I would not wish that on them. I watch our dear friends, Bev and Barry endure the struggles their adorable Grandson, Ari goes through and how very helpful they are to their Daughter, Jodi and Son-in-Law, Larry and lovely Granddaughter Liv. Not a night goes by that I do not pray for all of them.
To me spring is a renewal. Last spring was a particularly rough one but folks, I am here and will be listening for the birds to sing and watch for the budding of the flowers. My Sister was here last March for my surgery along with Greg, Laura and Joe. Happily, we will be all together again. C.A. will arrive on the 26th and Laura and Joe on the 28th of March. Quite fittingly. March 28th was our Mom's birthday. This will be a happier occasion, thankfully. Incidentally, Greg told me Saturday that he was the first one to see me after my surgery on Friday, March 15th 2013. I am not "out of the woods" yet, so please continue to keep me in your prayers. Ann and John O, thank you so much for you beautiful card. June, I will call you REAL soon.
Don't y'all find that one day will be just wonderful, nothing goes wrong and then boom a little stress enters the mix a day or so later? I am learning to cope with the stress (a very slow process) and am trying to focus on the good things in life and that folks are FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I can't say it enough because I mean it so sincerely - I LOVE YOU ALL!
I am reading and enjoying "THE KING'S DECEPTION" by STEVE BERRY
GIGOT OF MONKFISH ROMARIN WITH ANCHOVIES
2 1/2 lb monkfish (poor mans' lobster)
2 oz can anchovy fillets
6 tablespoons olive oil
juice of one lemon
s & p
a large bunch of fresh rosemary
TOMATO VINAIGRETTE
2/3 cup olive oil
4 teaspoons wine vinegar
2 tablespoons minced tomatoes
Using a sharp knife make slits in fish and insert anchovy fillet Marinate fish in oil and lemon juice, Season with s & p. Marinate for at least two hours. Lay the fish on a large bed of rosemary in a baking pan. Pour more oil over fish. Roast in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. To make the vinaigrette, heat the ingredients in a small pan and season to taste. Transfer fish to a serving dish and pour warm vinaigrette over.
I found this recipe in one of my handwritten journals so I don't know where I originally found it but I noted "delicious". I hope you like it!
At fifteen I worked at the local stationary store after school and on Saturdays, saving my salary for that little Henry J I eventually bought because I needed transportation from the "middle of nowhere". Actually Purchase was a little piece of Heaven for Carole-Anne and I. My sweet sixteen party was held in our front yard and we all had a ball! My engagement party was held there as well as my baby shower for Greg. Oh, the stories that yard could tell!
I had a curfew when I lived there and when my date and I were "saying" goodnight the front porch light would come on. Either Dad or Mom had being eyeing the clock. If I was somewhere with several of my friends and having the "best" time I would call home and ask for a bit more time. My Parents always said yes because they knew I was a responsible young lady. Many parties took place in that front yard with family and friends. Lots of food, much of which was newly plucked from Daddy's luscious garden. Everyone was welcomed and laughter was a main ingredient in the conversations.
I know that you all know by now that I had a wonderful childhood thanks to two giving, unselfish and loving Parents. In a way, as much as I miss them, and I miss them terribly I would not want them to have been privy to my health issue. It would have broken their hearts and I would not wish that on them. I watch our dear friends, Bev and Barry endure the struggles their adorable Grandson, Ari goes through and how very helpful they are to their Daughter, Jodi and Son-in-Law, Larry and lovely Granddaughter Liv. Not a night goes by that I do not pray for all of them.
To me spring is a renewal. Last spring was a particularly rough one but folks, I am here and will be listening for the birds to sing and watch for the budding of the flowers. My Sister was here last March for my surgery along with Greg, Laura and Joe. Happily, we will be all together again. C.A. will arrive on the 26th and Laura and Joe on the 28th of March. Quite fittingly. March 28th was our Mom's birthday. This will be a happier occasion, thankfully. Incidentally, Greg told me Saturday that he was the first one to see me after my surgery on Friday, March 15th 2013. I am not "out of the woods" yet, so please continue to keep me in your prayers. Ann and John O, thank you so much for you beautiful card. June, I will call you REAL soon.
Don't y'all find that one day will be just wonderful, nothing goes wrong and then boom a little stress enters the mix a day or so later? I am learning to cope with the stress (a very slow process) and am trying to focus on the good things in life and that folks are FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I can't say it enough because I mean it so sincerely - I LOVE YOU ALL!
I am reading and enjoying "THE KING'S DECEPTION" by STEVE BERRY
GIGOT OF MONKFISH ROMARIN WITH ANCHOVIES
2 1/2 lb monkfish (poor mans' lobster)
2 oz can anchovy fillets
6 tablespoons olive oil
juice of one lemon
s & p
a large bunch of fresh rosemary
TOMATO VINAIGRETTE
2/3 cup olive oil
4 teaspoons wine vinegar
2 tablespoons minced tomatoes
Using a sharp knife make slits in fish and insert anchovy fillet Marinate fish in oil and lemon juice, Season with s & p. Marinate for at least two hours. Lay the fish on a large bed of rosemary in a baking pan. Pour more oil over fish. Roast in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. To make the vinaigrette, heat the ingredients in a small pan and season to taste. Transfer fish to a serving dish and pour warm vinaigrette over.
I found this recipe in one of my handwritten journals so I don't know where I originally found it but I noted "delicious". I hope you like it!
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
ANNIVERSARY
Today marks the day Leland and I got married thirty-one years ago. Where has the time gone!? This year has been tumultuous for us with my medical situation but it is also the time to reflect on the fact that without Leland being by my side I would not have made it through. He has helped me conquer my fears, taken me for the radiation treatments, doctors' appointments, treats me for the seizures, makes sure I take my medications on time and holds me in his arms as I sob my heart out, always assuring me that all will be well. I could elaborate but I think you get the picture of how precious he is to me. Prayer has also, once again, come into his life. I believe that prayer has helped the whole family, especially me, through this ordeal. Happy Anniversary, my love and may we live to celebrate many, many wonderful more years together.
We had such a delightful time in Charlotte with Laura and Joe. We actually celebrated our anniversary with them in an Italian restaurant. It was yummy! We had the best visit! They are so happy together and for that Lee and I are so grateful. We are also so happy for Kate and Alec.
Just a few notes: Vivadiddle, thanks for the DVD. We will watch it and return it.
I didn't watch the Oscars simply because I wasn't interested. It seems to me that there are a lot of award shows for actors'. I guess they need to feed their egos! That doesn't mean we don't enjoy a good movie, because we do.
I played bridge today so that was a nice outing. We have a cozy clubhouse that we use so no one has to go to the trouble of cleaning, cooking etc. The guys play poker there. There is a knitting club, a book club and a ladies' tea (my personal favorite) There always seems to be something going on. One of the perks of living in "The Orchards"
This is a short blog tonight as I am feeling utterly exhausted. Unfortunately, a side effect of my newly added seizure medication.
Being unable to drive and just take off when I want to, causes me to go on-line and shop. Remember the blue and white phase "bee in the bonnet"?. Well, I may have overdone it a bit (okay A LOT) on ebay so as a result I have no more room for another purchase and dropped out of ebay AGAIN so I wouldn't be tempted. I am SO naughty!
Hope all of you are doing well, enjoying life and keeping healthy. Also take a moment to be thankful for all the special people in your lives. Believe me they are so important! A phone call to say hello, I am thinking about you and care about you means so much to a friend. Just ask me! Also a special thank you to Judy and her kindness in taking me shopping and to Greg for our get togethers. And to all our Daughters your "how are you doing" phone calls mean the world to Dad and I. And, Laura thanks for checking in every day.
We are looking forward to Victoria and Preston's visit during his spring break in April.
Children, you are ALL the BEST!
BASIL MARINATED LAMB CHOPS
Marinade:
8 cloves garlic mashed
3 Tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh basil, crushed
s & p
Combine marinade in a glass dish. Paint chops, cover and marinate at room temperature for two hours. Preheat grill. Cook and turn watching for flare-ups for about 20 minutes. Can also use indoor grill. Mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus wrapped in proscuitto with shaved parmesan on top would be delicious side dishes. As always enjoy!
We had such a delightful time in Charlotte with Laura and Joe. We actually celebrated our anniversary with them in an Italian restaurant. It was yummy! We had the best visit! They are so happy together and for that Lee and I are so grateful. We are also so happy for Kate and Alec.
Just a few notes: Vivadiddle, thanks for the DVD. We will watch it and return it.
I didn't watch the Oscars simply because I wasn't interested. It seems to me that there are a lot of award shows for actors'. I guess they need to feed their egos! That doesn't mean we don't enjoy a good movie, because we do.
I played bridge today so that was a nice outing. We have a cozy clubhouse that we use so no one has to go to the trouble of cleaning, cooking etc. The guys play poker there. There is a knitting club, a book club and a ladies' tea (my personal favorite) There always seems to be something going on. One of the perks of living in "The Orchards"
This is a short blog tonight as I am feeling utterly exhausted. Unfortunately, a side effect of my newly added seizure medication.
Being unable to drive and just take off when I want to, causes me to go on-line and shop. Remember the blue and white phase "bee in the bonnet"?. Well, I may have overdone it a bit (okay A LOT) on ebay so as a result I have no more room for another purchase and dropped out of ebay AGAIN so I wouldn't be tempted. I am SO naughty!
Hope all of you are doing well, enjoying life and keeping healthy. Also take a moment to be thankful for all the special people in your lives. Believe me they are so important! A phone call to say hello, I am thinking about you and care about you means so much to a friend. Just ask me! Also a special thank you to Judy and her kindness in taking me shopping and to Greg for our get togethers. And to all our Daughters your "how are you doing" phone calls mean the world to Dad and I. And, Laura thanks for checking in every day.
We are looking forward to Victoria and Preston's visit during his spring break in April.
Children, you are ALL the BEST!
BASIL MARINATED LAMB CHOPS
Marinade:
8 cloves garlic mashed
3 Tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh basil, crushed
s & p
Combine marinade in a glass dish. Paint chops, cover and marinate at room temperature for two hours. Preheat grill. Cook and turn watching for flare-ups for about 20 minutes. Can also use indoor grill. Mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus wrapped in proscuitto with shaved parmesan on top would be delicious side dishes. As always enjoy!
Monday, February 24, 2014
LAUGH
it's amazing how one phone call from an old and dear friend can make the day so very much better. Sue Maddock called this morning to check in with me." I have a dental appointment today and am going to hopefully get cortisone shots for my hands on Wednesday. We weren't able to attend two social events over the weekend because I didn't want to transfer my cold to anyone (however, if I knew from whom it originally came from I would gladly return it!) I'm over medicated etc. Isn't life wonderful!" "So, how are you doing? Sue responds that since she has gone gluten free she feels ever so much better. Her tummy isn't acting up! (We stopped at Costco on the way home from the dentist and I bought a loaf of gluten free bread. It was over $6.00 a loaf! Also bought chewable probiotic gummies at $19.98. At this rate I am going to have to give up Ebay!) We compared ailments, prescriptions and as always ended up laughing hysterically. We talked about our kids, our previous adventures and everything else under the sun. We have always been terrific friends and a lot of that is based on our senses of humor. We have fifty years of memorable times and we just love to reminisce. Our pal Vivadiddle is going through some health issues but we know she will be just fine. We all met in our early twenties when our only health issues were minor colds and the occasional "tummy ache". What happened we ask one another? Viv and Ed love cruising and go on them every chance they get. Good for them! I think they have the right idea.
Speaking of phone calls, my Sister just called and we also laughed! Laughing is good! It's the best antidote for everything. She and I and our Mom used to go on wonderful adventures. Hopefully, I will be seeing C.A. real soon. In the meantime, her adorable Grandson, Jack is growing up so fast.
Also my friend June M. can make me laugh as we watch the same programs - which shall remain nameless - and catch up on them and other stuff. She is the only other person I know that enjoys the shows that I like. She too, is a wonderful friend. I miss seeing her and John every year when they used to stop by. Y'all come back.
Carol Light and I just talk and it always helps!
One of the terrific things about our family is that we can laugh. All of our daughters have great senses of humor and Greg and Lee do too. I guess it's a family trait! Sometimes, however, it can be my particular downfall because if I get nervous, I giggle and not always appropriately. I will never forgive myself when at a party a woman started singing in a very serious way. It took me off guard and I started giggling uncontrollably. I was sitting on a sofa and was trapped in the middle and had no place to go. I am not even going to mention in detail - the funeral!
The bottom line is, that I love to laugh! A laugh a day or more may just keep the doctor away. Have a great week. I will let you know all about our upcoming visit to Charlotte. Hugs and Love, Arlene
Haven't a book to recommend as we have been glued to the TV as I recently posted.
BROCCOLI PUFF
Two packages of cooked broccoli (I use steam in the bag)
One cup Bisquick
One cup milk
Two eggs
One cup cheddar
salt and pepper to taste
fresh herbs and/or spices (optional)
Can also use spinach, asparagus etc.
Beat Bisquick, milk and egg with hand beater until smooth. Stir in broccoli and cheese and put in to a baking dish.
Bake at 350 degrees for one hour.
Speaking of phone calls, my Sister just called and we also laughed! Laughing is good! It's the best antidote for everything. She and I and our Mom used to go on wonderful adventures. Hopefully, I will be seeing C.A. real soon. In the meantime, her adorable Grandson, Jack is growing up so fast.
Also my friend June M. can make me laugh as we watch the same programs - which shall remain nameless - and catch up on them and other stuff. She is the only other person I know that enjoys the shows that I like. She too, is a wonderful friend. I miss seeing her and John every year when they used to stop by. Y'all come back.
Carol Light and I just talk and it always helps!
One of the terrific things about our family is that we can laugh. All of our daughters have great senses of humor and Greg and Lee do too. I guess it's a family trait! Sometimes, however, it can be my particular downfall because if I get nervous, I giggle and not always appropriately. I will never forgive myself when at a party a woman started singing in a very serious way. It took me off guard and I started giggling uncontrollably. I was sitting on a sofa and was trapped in the middle and had no place to go. I am not even going to mention in detail - the funeral!
The bottom line is, that I love to laugh! A laugh a day or more may just keep the doctor away. Have a great week. I will let you know all about our upcoming visit to Charlotte. Hugs and Love, Arlene
Haven't a book to recommend as we have been glued to the TV as I recently posted.
BROCCOLI PUFF
Two packages of cooked broccoli (I use steam in the bag)
One cup Bisquick
One cup milk
Two eggs
One cup cheddar
salt and pepper to taste
fresh herbs and/or spices (optional)
Can also use spinach, asparagus etc.
Beat Bisquick, milk and egg with hand beater until smooth. Stir in broccoli and cheese and put in to a baking dish.
Bake at 350 degrees for one hour.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
OLYMPICS ETC.
Call me a couch potato or a lazy boy recliner because I have been an avid observer of the Olympics. My bottom has expanded from sitting days on end and believe me that is not a good thing. I think my next purchase will be Spanx! But, the bottom line is that the winter games have captured our attention. If an ice skater falls we want he or she to rally and do well no matter their country of origin. But I have to say we were delighted that White and Davis won the gold medal. They deserved it! I have always thought Bode Miller positively adorable even though he fathered two children out of wedlock - shame on him - but I was happy he shared in winning a bronze medal. Besides he finally found his "soul mate" in his twenty-six year old wife. It's amazing the time, money and years that go into making it to the big event and then a tumble on a ski slope ends the quest for the medal, at least for now. What troopers one and all.
I have a quest of my own right now. I am on the hunt for blue and white Asian etc. porcelain. I am back on Ebay and having such a good time. Today, Leland, Greg and I went antiquing and out to lunch. I found the cutest ginger jar! All my green stuff is tucked away and the cupboard Dad made is now filled with my newest "can't live without" blue and white STUFF! You know I am better because I am rearranging. That's a good thing! I just love our home and am glad I can make periodic small changes. Don't you just love the homey English style, the French country look or that Tuscan look that makes you want to cook pasta? I have never been a big believer in horoscopes but I am a Scorpio and do have Scorpio tendencies. Maybe there is something in those signs after all! All I know that it makes me happy to find things I like to look at.
I am ready for spring and looking forward to seeing buds on the bare trees and little daffodils popping up. This winter has been a wee on the cold side and Atlanta got hit with snow that literally threw the city into a tizzy. We just stayed home all snuggled up. We had plenty of food and our electricity stayed on. And, we had each other. What more could one ask for? My heart went out to those that had difficulties. I hope our Governor learned a BIG lesson!
My Sister is coming to visit in the spring and we will go galavanting. She and I are great galivantors. We even like getting lost! I miss her so much! I need a Sister fix!
I read somewhere that instead of living a day at a time one should live a moment at a time. Just take a moment to think of someone who is ailing, or to count your blessings or to say thank you to everyone that has shown you a kindness, I am going to concentrate on the positives and not on the negatives. I need to remember how lucky I am to have come this far. I want to continue on my quests. I want to be here for my family and friends so keep me in your prayers. They have brought me this far. Thank you!
Our Son, Gregory has been so good at keeping my spirits up and putting everything in perspective for me. He has always been there for us in time of need. I told him today that when he was young and not feeling well I would sleep on the floor next to his bed in case he needed me in the middle of the night. And, if he really didn't feel well I would sit in the wing chair in the living room holding him through the night. Now at fifty he is a man that I am extremely proud of. Thanks Greg, for listening to me whine and picking my spirits up. Love you lots, Mom
SIMPLE ARTICHOKE DIP
One 14 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
One cup mayonaise
One cup grated parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Combine artichoke hearts, mayo and parmesan cheese and mix well.Spread into 9 x 13 baking dish and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and brown. Serve with sliced baguettes or pita chips.
I have a quest of my own right now. I am on the hunt for blue and white Asian etc. porcelain. I am back on Ebay and having such a good time. Today, Leland, Greg and I went antiquing and out to lunch. I found the cutest ginger jar! All my green stuff is tucked away and the cupboard Dad made is now filled with my newest "can't live without" blue and white STUFF! You know I am better because I am rearranging. That's a good thing! I just love our home and am glad I can make periodic small changes. Don't you just love the homey English style, the French country look or that Tuscan look that makes you want to cook pasta? I have never been a big believer in horoscopes but I am a Scorpio and do have Scorpio tendencies. Maybe there is something in those signs after all! All I know that it makes me happy to find things I like to look at.
I am ready for spring and looking forward to seeing buds on the bare trees and little daffodils popping up. This winter has been a wee on the cold side and Atlanta got hit with snow that literally threw the city into a tizzy. We just stayed home all snuggled up. We had plenty of food and our electricity stayed on. And, we had each other. What more could one ask for? My heart went out to those that had difficulties. I hope our Governor learned a BIG lesson!
My Sister is coming to visit in the spring and we will go galavanting. She and I are great galivantors. We even like getting lost! I miss her so much! I need a Sister fix!
I read somewhere that instead of living a day at a time one should live a moment at a time. Just take a moment to think of someone who is ailing, or to count your blessings or to say thank you to everyone that has shown you a kindness, I am going to concentrate on the positives and not on the negatives. I need to remember how lucky I am to have come this far. I want to continue on my quests. I want to be here for my family and friends so keep me in your prayers. They have brought me this far. Thank you!
Our Son, Gregory has been so good at keeping my spirits up and putting everything in perspective for me. He has always been there for us in time of need. I told him today that when he was young and not feeling well I would sleep on the floor next to his bed in case he needed me in the middle of the night. And, if he really didn't feel well I would sit in the wing chair in the living room holding him through the night. Now at fifty he is a man that I am extremely proud of. Thanks Greg, for listening to me whine and picking my spirits up. Love you lots, Mom
SIMPLE ARTICHOKE DIP
One 14 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
One cup mayonaise
One cup grated parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Combine artichoke hearts, mayo and parmesan cheese and mix well.Spread into 9 x 13 baking dish and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and brown. Serve with sliced baguettes or pita chips.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
THE PROPOSAL
I recently realized that I neglected the most important part of Leland's and my love story - the proposal. As I have already chronicled, Leland and I renewed our friendship on September 19th, 1982 and married on March 5th, 1983. What I haven't mentioned is the most important turning point in our relationship; the day Leland proposed. Sadly, Leland nor I remember the exact date but we do recall where. We were standing in the tiny hallway of my rented cottage in Armonk, New York shortly after my Dad passed away. "Out of the blue" Leland said "will you marry me"? With absolutely no hesitation, I replied "YES". There was no engagement ring involved then or later but just the happiness of knowing we were in love and would be spending the rest of our lives together made it particularly poignant. A kiss cemented our intent - that was enough! And, as you all know by now the past thirty years have been the happiest of my entire life. We have shared the joys and sorrows of life together and faced challenges as a team intent on besting those challenges. It was always my dream to marry Leland and my dream came true. I am the luckiest woman in the world.
Ours is a wonderful love story and I know that there are many more tales of love worthy of passing on.. Let your families know yours. My Parents' shared their love story with my Sister and I and we are fortunate enough to pass their history on to our children. I hope that generations from now somehow, somewhere our story will be filed away for reference. A family tree with all its branches with names are really a summarization of love stories. I just bet that our ancestors could tell us many a tale if we could only ask.
My Cousin, John Lyons and his Wife, Fran found the documentation of our Grandparents' arrival at Ellis Island. Their romance started on the voyage from England to the United States and culminated in a marriage producing five children! I wonder how many other immigrants met their spouse (s) on their journey to the United States seeking a better way of life? See, we must ask, to get the answers to these questions before it is too late. Go forth and discover. Love, Arlene
Today I want to recommend a CD to you: EDDI READER - The songs of Robert Burns. The song I adore is "My Love is Like a Red Red Rose. It is quite simply, beautiful!
SCOTTISH SHORTBREAD
1 1/2 cup sifted flour
1/4 confectioners sugar
1/4 TSP salt
1/2 pound butter softened to room temperature
Can add raisins or chopped nuts (1/4 cup)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Mix all ingredients together. Knead thoroughly until the consistency becomes doughy. Press into a shortbread mold. Bake in preheated oven approximately 45 minutes or until shortbread is slightly brown and still somewhat springy to the touch. Let cool in mold and run knife around the perimeter of the shortbread to loosen it from mold. Remove to rack.
Ours is a wonderful love story and I know that there are many more tales of love worthy of passing on.. Let your families know yours. My Parents' shared their love story with my Sister and I and we are fortunate enough to pass their history on to our children. I hope that generations from now somehow, somewhere our story will be filed away for reference. A family tree with all its branches with names are really a summarization of love stories. I just bet that our ancestors could tell us many a tale if we could only ask.
My Cousin, John Lyons and his Wife, Fran found the documentation of our Grandparents' arrival at Ellis Island. Their romance started on the voyage from England to the United States and culminated in a marriage producing five children! I wonder how many other immigrants met their spouse (s) on their journey to the United States seeking a better way of life? See, we must ask, to get the answers to these questions before it is too late. Go forth and discover. Love, Arlene
Today I want to recommend a CD to you: EDDI READER - The songs of Robert Burns. The song I adore is "My Love is Like a Red Red Rose. It is quite simply, beautiful!
SCOTTISH SHORTBREAD
1 1/2 cup sifted flour
1/4 confectioners sugar
1/4 TSP salt
1/2 pound butter softened to room temperature
Can add raisins or chopped nuts (1/4 cup)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Mix all ingredients together. Knead thoroughly until the consistency becomes doughy. Press into a shortbread mold. Bake in preheated oven approximately 45 minutes or until shortbread is slightly brown and still somewhat springy to the touch. Let cool in mold and run knife around the perimeter of the shortbread to loosen it from mold. Remove to rack.
Monday, February 3, 2014
RYE RIDGE
When Gregory was nine months old, we moved to the Rye Ridge garden apartments in Port Chester, N.Y. The complex was basically filled with young couples and their young children. Most of our husbands commuted to New York City and most of us were on a slow track to buying our first homes. Bill, (now deceased) my first Husband and I made wonderful friends: Vivien and Bill (deceased) Cord and their two children, Kenny and Curtis, Sue and Jim Maddock and their children, Greg and Lori, Faith and Jim Morrow (now residing in Palos Verdes, CA. and their two children (a third would be born in CA}. Fifty years later we are still friends! There were many other young couples with whom we lost touch. None of us had a lot of money, so we made our own fun. Every weekend there would be fun themed parties some of which were spontaneous such as movie parties, costume and"come as you are". We had a ball! We would go camping at Cape Ann or in Vermont and to Bucks County, PA where we stayed at Sue's Parents' second home and went jet skiing. Our years at Rye Ridge were fabulous! We would pop-in to one anothers' homes' for coffee or take our babies' in strollers to Woolworths' and treat ourselves. Life was fun and for the most part uncomplicated. Things changed as gradually couples moved on, on their upward climb to success. I am indeed lucky to be in touch with Sue, Vivadiddle and Faith. We all remember those fabulous parties and sitting at the pool, chatting away.
I was fortunate that my Parents lived close-by. Mom loved to go to B. Altmans, a department store for lunch so off we would go. Later we would go to Bloomingdales for our outings because we loved their menu. Dad was also a big fan so would often join us along with my Sister. It was a wonderful and care-free few years there until we moved to Armonk. Happily, Sue and Jim became neighbors and Sue and I still laugh over some of our antics; our antique hunting, our luncheon in a hardware store that we happened upon, our trip to Nantucket with Carey where we stayed at that seedy hotel (we changed locations) and selling real estate together. Viv, now lives in Armonk. I see another visit in my future.
When we first arrived at Rye Ridge our downstairs neighbor was a widow and her two young children. Midge Parsons lost her Husband on the "THRESHER", a nuclear-powerd attack submarine in 1963. Midge later remarried and moved to Ohio. As sad as she was, she carried on with dignity and faith that all will be well.
Today I had the most touching experience at the Barnes & Noble Starbucks. I was there to get my daily addiction and to greet the very BEST Starbucks staff. Linda the leader handed me a card. The entire staff had written a personal message to me. I cried! It meant the world to me. They have all witnessed my struggle this past year and have been staunch supporters. They are dear to me and I wish them all well on their paths to success. Thank you all and love, Arlene
I accidentally discovered a new author: G. M. MALLIET and the Max Tudor mystery series. They are set in a small English village. I completed the first in the series and on to the second. Great!!!
MUD PIE
i cup finely crushed chocolate wafers
1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
1 quart coffee ice cream
1/ cup canned hot fudge (chilled)
whipped cream
Combine crushed wafers and butter (oleo). Press into a 9 inch pie plate. Pat mixture halfway up sides. Put into the freezer until firm, about 15 minute. Remove and spread ice cream on top of frozen mixture, smoothing ice cream to form a rounded top. Place in freezer at least four hours. Before serving, spread chilled hot fudge over pie to 1/4 inch of edge of pie. Top with whipped cream.
I was fortunate that my Parents lived close-by. Mom loved to go to B. Altmans, a department store for lunch so off we would go. Later we would go to Bloomingdales for our outings because we loved their menu. Dad was also a big fan so would often join us along with my Sister. It was a wonderful and care-free few years there until we moved to Armonk. Happily, Sue and Jim became neighbors and Sue and I still laugh over some of our antics; our antique hunting, our luncheon in a hardware store that we happened upon, our trip to Nantucket with Carey where we stayed at that seedy hotel (we changed locations) and selling real estate together. Viv, now lives in Armonk. I see another visit in my future.
When we first arrived at Rye Ridge our downstairs neighbor was a widow and her two young children. Midge Parsons lost her Husband on the "THRESHER", a nuclear-powerd attack submarine in 1963. Midge later remarried and moved to Ohio. As sad as she was, she carried on with dignity and faith that all will be well.
Today I had the most touching experience at the Barnes & Noble Starbucks. I was there to get my daily addiction and to greet the very BEST Starbucks staff. Linda the leader handed me a card. The entire staff had written a personal message to me. I cried! It meant the world to me. They have all witnessed my struggle this past year and have been staunch supporters. They are dear to me and I wish them all well on their paths to success. Thank you all and love, Arlene
I accidentally discovered a new author: G. M. MALLIET and the Max Tudor mystery series. They are set in a small English village. I completed the first in the series and on to the second. Great!!!
MUD PIE
i cup finely crushed chocolate wafers
1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
1 quart coffee ice cream
1/ cup canned hot fudge (chilled)
whipped cream
Combine crushed wafers and butter (oleo). Press into a 9 inch pie plate. Pat mixture halfway up sides. Put into the freezer until firm, about 15 minute. Remove and spread ice cream on top of frozen mixture, smoothing ice cream to form a rounded top. Place in freezer at least four hours. Before serving, spread chilled hot fudge over pie to 1/4 inch of edge of pie. Top with whipped cream.
Friday, January 31, 2014
MEMORY LANE
In the early fifties friends and I would sometimes go to the local roller rink on a Friday night and in our poodle skirts would skate the night away to live organ music. Sometimes we would go to the local movie theatre, after eating Crystal hamburgers. The theatre was a go to place to catch up on war news, see cartoons and then a film. At home I would listen to the radio: "The Shadow ", "Fibber and Molly McGee" ", 'The Inner Sanctum" etc., while snuggled up in bed. Then television came to the Wood family and we would gather together and watch Milton Berle, Arthur Godfrey etc. Progress! Ed Sullivan, Groucho Marx and his silly duck and others became favorite viewing. Remember Art Linkletter and those adorable children "out of the mouths of babes", What's My Line? Jackie Gleason? I could go on and on. What glorious days when a family gathered around the tiny TV, laughing hysterically. They were programs you could share with your young family.
Our family also ate at the dining room table every night and shared the day's news. When asked how my day was, my usual response was "fine". I was a teenager and not particularly communicative. Besides, we moved in my senior year of high school after being in the same school system my entire life. To finish up my junior year I was graciously asked to stay at Mary Rutherford's family home (Meyers') during the week. Dad would pick me up on Friday afternoons and bring me back on Sunday. This was about a six month schedule. Remember, my Grandfather passed away and life changed drastically. We all got through it and I completed high school at Harrison High School. Fortunately, I made friends and got back in the groove. But truthfully, it was a difficult time. And we lived "in the middle of nowhere with no public transportation. That's when I bought my first car, a green Henry J for $75.00. Unfortunately, my then current boyfriend, borrowed it, hit a curb and totaled it! Fortunately, he was not hurt but my car sure was. That was the end of our relationship! I loved that little car!
When our family, first moved to Purchase, New York (it abuts Greenwich, Connecticut), there was a polo field (now the headquarters of Pepsi), a steer farm (now a state university) and a golf course (still there). Our little house has been torn down with the pond and stone fence still standing as a reminder of those days. Manhattanville College is also located there. I remember the small stone library that also contained a nursery school where Gregory spent many a day. His Father and I lived nearby in Rye Ridge and spent many hours at Mom and Dad's. In fact, they were the only babysitters Gregory ever had. I do miss those visits there with my Parents' and Sister and the trips to the garden where I loaded up on fresh corn and other organically (chicken poop from our wonderful neighbors "Aunt Minnie" and Uncle Charlie" who raised chickens and provided us with eggs) grown vegetables. "Uncle Wilbur" and "Aunt Clara" (Minnie's Sister) would also bring over home baked goodies. They watched me get married and then my little Sister. They were the best neighbors in the world. They adopted us as part of their family. Those days can never be duplicated but are fixed in my memory. I know that Gregory remembers fondly his visits there and playing chess with Grandpa. And, being on the dual swing with Grandma. He still chuckles about the time Grandma's side fell over and her legs went up in the air. They both laughed hysterically.
One year an adorable kitten found its way to our house. My Sister named her Pudder. She lived outside for many, many years. Somehow she got into the house one day and delivered kittens in my Dad's slippers inside their closet. Dad must have found homes for them but we still kept Pudder until one day she just disappeared at a very old age. We missed her! One day Dad was driving me home from school and a rabbit ran across the road and Dad hit it. He stopped the car and got out to tend to the rabbit. Unfortunately, it was a fatal accident. I remember how sad my Dad was and knew that if he could have saved it, he would have. I also knew it bothered him so much even though it was unavoidable. But, that was my Dad - always for the underdog. That's why running the camp for the underprivileged children made him so happy. In fact, that is where he met his lifelong friend, Jack ("Uncle" to C.A. and me}. He and his wife, Sophie ("Aunt") and children Jack and Donald became "family". I am still in touch with Jack, Jr. and his wife, Dorothy. Thank you for your prayers both of you.
Whenever we had guests Daddy would always ask me to play the piano. Truthfully, I was terrible and resisted my lessons but he loved "Danny Boy". Carole-Anne and I can remember Daddy singing it. We can't listen to that song without feeling very sad. Dad, a great golfer taught me to play the game. He was, in general, a lover of all sports, a chess player and a stamp and coin collector. We have a corner cupboard in our dining room that he made over 70 years ago. It has a place of honor. He was a wonderful furniture builder, butterfly collector and copper engraver. Sadly, those pieces are long gone. Dad was a New Yorker, but guess what - he loved listening to country music. Go figure! I fervently wish that he could have met his only Granddaughter, Laura. She and Greg both inherited his love of art. Also, he and Mom would have cherished and rejoiced in their Great-Grandson, Jack. The good news is we all got some of their wonderful genes!
BRIE PASTA
I take the rind off of a large round of Brie and cut into chunks. Place chunks in a large bowl with lots of cut up fresh basil and cut-up tomatoes (use the best). Keep at room temperature. (can be kept for hours). When ready, cook pasta such as linguini and add to bowl. Easy and delicious! Serve with crusty bread.
Have a wonderful weekend family and friends. Love, Arlene
Our family also ate at the dining room table every night and shared the day's news. When asked how my day was, my usual response was "fine". I was a teenager and not particularly communicative. Besides, we moved in my senior year of high school after being in the same school system my entire life. To finish up my junior year I was graciously asked to stay at Mary Rutherford's family home (Meyers') during the week. Dad would pick me up on Friday afternoons and bring me back on Sunday. This was about a six month schedule. Remember, my Grandfather passed away and life changed drastically. We all got through it and I completed high school at Harrison High School. Fortunately, I made friends and got back in the groove. But truthfully, it was a difficult time. And we lived "in the middle of nowhere with no public transportation. That's when I bought my first car, a green Henry J for $75.00. Unfortunately, my then current boyfriend, borrowed it, hit a curb and totaled it! Fortunately, he was not hurt but my car sure was. That was the end of our relationship! I loved that little car!
When our family, first moved to Purchase, New York (it abuts Greenwich, Connecticut), there was a polo field (now the headquarters of Pepsi), a steer farm (now a state university) and a golf course (still there). Our little house has been torn down with the pond and stone fence still standing as a reminder of those days. Manhattanville College is also located there. I remember the small stone library that also contained a nursery school where Gregory spent many a day. His Father and I lived nearby in Rye Ridge and spent many hours at Mom and Dad's. In fact, they were the only babysitters Gregory ever had. I do miss those visits there with my Parents' and Sister and the trips to the garden where I loaded up on fresh corn and other organically (chicken poop from our wonderful neighbors "Aunt Minnie" and Uncle Charlie" who raised chickens and provided us with eggs) grown vegetables. "Uncle Wilbur" and "Aunt Clara" (Minnie's Sister) would also bring over home baked goodies. They watched me get married and then my little Sister. They were the best neighbors in the world. They adopted us as part of their family. Those days can never be duplicated but are fixed in my memory. I know that Gregory remembers fondly his visits there and playing chess with Grandpa. And, being on the dual swing with Grandma. He still chuckles about the time Grandma's side fell over and her legs went up in the air. They both laughed hysterically.
One year an adorable kitten found its way to our house. My Sister named her Pudder. She lived outside for many, many years. Somehow she got into the house one day and delivered kittens in my Dad's slippers inside their closet. Dad must have found homes for them but we still kept Pudder until one day she just disappeared at a very old age. We missed her! One day Dad was driving me home from school and a rabbit ran across the road and Dad hit it. He stopped the car and got out to tend to the rabbit. Unfortunately, it was a fatal accident. I remember how sad my Dad was and knew that if he could have saved it, he would have. I also knew it bothered him so much even though it was unavoidable. But, that was my Dad - always for the underdog. That's why running the camp for the underprivileged children made him so happy. In fact, that is where he met his lifelong friend, Jack ("Uncle" to C.A. and me}. He and his wife, Sophie ("Aunt") and children Jack and Donald became "family". I am still in touch with Jack, Jr. and his wife, Dorothy. Thank you for your prayers both of you.
Whenever we had guests Daddy would always ask me to play the piano. Truthfully, I was terrible and resisted my lessons but he loved "Danny Boy". Carole-Anne and I can remember Daddy singing it. We can't listen to that song without feeling very sad. Dad, a great golfer taught me to play the game. He was, in general, a lover of all sports, a chess player and a stamp and coin collector. We have a corner cupboard in our dining room that he made over 70 years ago. It has a place of honor. He was a wonderful furniture builder, butterfly collector and copper engraver. Sadly, those pieces are long gone. Dad was a New Yorker, but guess what - he loved listening to country music. Go figure! I fervently wish that he could have met his only Granddaughter, Laura. She and Greg both inherited his love of art. Also, he and Mom would have cherished and rejoiced in their Great-Grandson, Jack. The good news is we all got some of their wonderful genes!
BRIE PASTA
I take the rind off of a large round of Brie and cut into chunks. Place chunks in a large bowl with lots of cut up fresh basil and cut-up tomatoes (use the best). Keep at room temperature. (can be kept for hours). When ready, cook pasta such as linguini and add to bowl. Easy and delicious! Serve with crusty bread.
Have a wonderful weekend family and friends. Love, Arlene
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
SNOW
I know that I have mentioned this before; we live in Georgia. You know the deep south! Well the only thing deep about it at the moment, is the deep snow. We are snowed in and if you have been watching the news, Atlanta has been deeply affected. Over a thousand accidents and for some, stuck in gridlock traffic for many, many hours. We do not own a shovel, sled, nor do we have boots!. To top it off our main furnace decided to quit. The fellow is coming tomorrow to "have a look". Having a "look" could be expensive. How do eskimos live in igloos? Fortunately, I always have a pantry full of food and of late, I could personally live off the newly accumulated fat I have recently put on, for some time. We are in good shape (food wise). I tell you, that nasty global warming. Mr. Gore how are things in Tahiti?
I just made myself a cup of tea with lemon and honey. I intend to get ahead of getting a chill. I am layered up in clothing and so at the moment I am toasty warm. Laura and Joe are now getting the weather we are experiencing and so Laura's school was cancelled but Joe successfully made it to work. Now if Greg will let me know where he is I can relax a bit for awhile. I don't have to worry about the children in Florida but I do wonder how Victoria and family are doing? Let me know! I guess we never stop worrying about our loved ones. It just comes with the territory of being a Parent.
Don't you just hate it, when your favorite TV programs are pre-empted by some political hyperbole or if the weather knocks the satellite out? I surely am getting grumpy in my old age. Looking on the bright side, we still have electricity. And then I think that there are people out there living homeless or in very undesirable conditions. God bless them, and keep them warm and safe! We will get back to normal but for others their conditions will not change. If you are thinking of making a donation in this New Year, think about The Salvation Army. I mentioned before that they are a selfless organization. I think we are all grateful for what and who we have in our lives. So, at times like this it is important to help others.
Mary Rutherford checked up on me today. She lost her beloved Husband, John on Christmas night. She is staying busy with her various organizations, (PEO, canasta group etc.) and even had a small dinner party the other night. She is basically putting "one foot in front of the other" so she can move forward. But on days like this, being snowbound and alone makes her sad. I don't blame her, but I am so proud of her progress. She married at 18 and has always had John by her side. Mary, stay strong!
Life gets muddled at times. We (meaning me) concentrate on the mundane sometimes and that is not helpful. I just ordered a new book on Amazon about conquering stress. "The Mayo Guide to Stress Free Living" in paperback by Amit Sood. I'll let you know what I think. In the meantime, stay snuggled with some nice hot cocoa. After I finish my tea that will be my next treat.
FISHERMAN'S BISQUE
1 pkg (6 ounces) frozen king crab
1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 1/2 cup lt. cream or half n' half
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chopped or dried parsley
Remove crab from box and keep in wrapper, running hot water to thaw enough to separate. Cut into small pieces and set aside. Heat soup and cream to just below boiling point. Add crab and simmer only until it is heated through. Stir in paprika and sprinkle with parsley. Serves 4
I just made myself a cup of tea with lemon and honey. I intend to get ahead of getting a chill. I am layered up in clothing and so at the moment I am toasty warm. Laura and Joe are now getting the weather we are experiencing and so Laura's school was cancelled but Joe successfully made it to work. Now if Greg will let me know where he is I can relax a bit for awhile. I don't have to worry about the children in Florida but I do wonder how Victoria and family are doing? Let me know! I guess we never stop worrying about our loved ones. It just comes with the territory of being a Parent.
Don't you just hate it, when your favorite TV programs are pre-empted by some political hyperbole or if the weather knocks the satellite out? I surely am getting grumpy in my old age. Looking on the bright side, we still have electricity. And then I think that there are people out there living homeless or in very undesirable conditions. God bless them, and keep them warm and safe! We will get back to normal but for others their conditions will not change. If you are thinking of making a donation in this New Year, think about The Salvation Army. I mentioned before that they are a selfless organization. I think we are all grateful for what and who we have in our lives. So, at times like this it is important to help others.
Mary Rutherford checked up on me today. She lost her beloved Husband, John on Christmas night. She is staying busy with her various organizations, (PEO, canasta group etc.) and even had a small dinner party the other night. She is basically putting "one foot in front of the other" so she can move forward. But on days like this, being snowbound and alone makes her sad. I don't blame her, but I am so proud of her progress. She married at 18 and has always had John by her side. Mary, stay strong!
Life gets muddled at times. We (meaning me) concentrate on the mundane sometimes and that is not helpful. I just ordered a new book on Amazon about conquering stress. "The Mayo Guide to Stress Free Living" in paperback by Amit Sood. I'll let you know what I think. In the meantime, stay snuggled with some nice hot cocoa. After I finish my tea that will be my next treat.
FISHERMAN'S BISQUE
1 pkg (6 ounces) frozen king crab
1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 1/2 cup lt. cream or half n' half
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chopped or dried parsley
Remove crab from box and keep in wrapper, running hot water to thaw enough to separate. Cut into small pieces and set aside. Heat soup and cream to just below boiling point. Add crab and simmer only until it is heated through. Stir in paprika and sprinkle with parsley. Serves 4
Monday, January 27, 2014
VISIT
On Saturday we got a surprise (but most welcomed) visit from Jackie and Ricky Hewett. They are the Parents of Laura's best friend, Kate. They recently left this area to move to Sun City near Savannah. Ricky had transferred to Savannah with his job and they also love being nearer to Kate who is a doctor in Charleston. We discussed a variety of subjects. Our Husbands' found that Jackie and I have a lot in common, particularly our penchant from going from topic to topic midstream of another subject. I think this makes us very intelligent because our brains are working faster than our mouths. If any of you readers suffer from this same affliction consider yourself on the bright side. At least, that's what I am thinking. It's much better than being called "scattered brain". Anyway, Jackie suggested mediation to calm any anxiety I have concerning medical problems and I think that is a marvelous idea. Only, of course if I could clear my brain of thoughts; considering how active it is. I intend to research a book and will definitely try it. Also they are going to email Leland some exercises for his back. It was a wonderful visit and we learned so much. But, it went by much too fast. Y'all come back real soon!
Saturday Greg and I spent a lovely day galavanting. He drove me around to do errands and we had lunch. He has volunteered to take me antiquing in a couple of weeks. It was neat being together. Thanks Greg!
This morning I got a phone call from my dear friend, Sue Maddock. She predicted the outcome of the MRI. She always checks up on me and we bring one-another up-to-date. We have been friends for fifty years and fortunately when we saw one another last year just prior to my surgery - we recognized one another! In fact, she, Jim, Viv and Ed hadn't changed at all! I hate to bore you but I must include, June MaLach, Mary Rutherford, Viv Cord, Diana James, Joy Miller and Carol Light, as constant and supportive friends even though they live a distance away. My Sister, Carole-Anne and Cousin, Joan have also been there for me. And, you all know about this wonderful community of friends we have here. There optimistic outlook has gotten me through so much. Thank you dear, dear friends!
Life has taken a turn for the better! I decided that I have to take a chance and stop eating ice cream, etc. and get back to healthy eating. I carry the glue in my purse just in case! i started yesterday. So far, so good! I have indeed put on weight! The other day, I put on a pair of jeans and struggled to zip them up and button the top. But, I accomplished it and went on my merry way. Later that evening I took them off and put them on the bathtub rim. Leland picked them up and said " they were HIS jeans". "No they are not! - they are mine!" We checked the label and they were HIS jeans. He asked me if I wanted them?! I replied "No I do not want your size 38 x 32 jeans!! He tried to make me feel better by saying they were tight on him. I never want to see them AGAIN! I have now gotten several wake-up calls! The neurologist scale is totally out of whack! I surely can't weigh that! So, we shall see how much willpower I can evoke and get this weight off.
This recipe was included in "A TOUCH OF FIRST CLASS" (Pan Am recipes and nostalgia) and submitted by Joy Miller. We met Joy and Barry while living in Berlin and now we all live in Georgia.
ESCARGOT ALA BARRY ENJOYS
1 (7- 1/2) oz can snails
1 shallot
3 cloves garlic
1 cup parsley
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
crusty bread
In a food processor mince shallots, garlic and parsley. Add butter and blend. Skewer three snails per stick. Place in cooking pan with butter mixture over each skewer. While it cooks, butter will melt, snails will be immersed. Cook on grill approximately ten minutes or one drink later until very hot and bubbly. Serve with crusty bread rounds.
Thank you so very much for the lovely cookbook, Joy. I will cherish it!
Saturday Greg and I spent a lovely day galavanting. He drove me around to do errands and we had lunch. He has volunteered to take me antiquing in a couple of weeks. It was neat being together. Thanks Greg!
This morning I got a phone call from my dear friend, Sue Maddock. She predicted the outcome of the MRI. She always checks up on me and we bring one-another up-to-date. We have been friends for fifty years and fortunately when we saw one another last year just prior to my surgery - we recognized one another! In fact, she, Jim, Viv and Ed hadn't changed at all! I hate to bore you but I must include, June MaLach, Mary Rutherford, Viv Cord, Diana James, Joy Miller and Carol Light, as constant and supportive friends even though they live a distance away. My Sister, Carole-Anne and Cousin, Joan have also been there for me. And, you all know about this wonderful community of friends we have here. There optimistic outlook has gotten me through so much. Thank you dear, dear friends!
Life has taken a turn for the better! I decided that I have to take a chance and stop eating ice cream, etc. and get back to healthy eating. I carry the glue in my purse just in case! i started yesterday. So far, so good! I have indeed put on weight! The other day, I put on a pair of jeans and struggled to zip them up and button the top. But, I accomplished it and went on my merry way. Later that evening I took them off and put them on the bathtub rim. Leland picked them up and said " they were HIS jeans". "No they are not! - they are mine!" We checked the label and they were HIS jeans. He asked me if I wanted them?! I replied "No I do not want your size 38 x 32 jeans!! He tried to make me feel better by saying they were tight on him. I never want to see them AGAIN! I have now gotten several wake-up calls! The neurologist scale is totally out of whack! I surely can't weigh that! So, we shall see how much willpower I can evoke and get this weight off.
This recipe was included in "A TOUCH OF FIRST CLASS" (Pan Am recipes and nostalgia) and submitted by Joy Miller. We met Joy and Barry while living in Berlin and now we all live in Georgia.
ESCARGOT ALA BARRY ENJOYS
1 (7- 1/2) oz can snails
1 shallot
3 cloves garlic
1 cup parsley
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
crusty bread
In a food processor mince shallots, garlic and parsley. Add butter and blend. Skewer three snails per stick. Place in cooking pan with butter mixture over each skewer. While it cooks, butter will melt, snails will be immersed. Cook on grill approximately ten minutes or one drink later until very hot and bubbly. Serve with crusty bread rounds.
Thank you so very much for the lovely cookbook, Joy. I will cherish it!
Thursday, January 23, 2014
GOLDEN YEARS?????
It was Friday, January 17th and Leland, Andrea and Nicholas and I were waiting for Laura and Joe to arrive. I decided to serve Tombstone pizza for dinner. A very major mistake! Not only are they terrible but when I bit into it I noticed that I indeed had something missing - a tooth - in the front! Now let me tell one and all that it is not at all attractive to be missing a front tooth. Everyone, including myself started laughing hysterically and I said I looked like Ma Gump. Leland responded that I was now a true southerner (please do not be offended my lovely born and raised southerners). I called our local pharmacist at CVS and said "I hope you can understand me with this horrible LISP but my front tooth fell out! I was laughing, he was laughing but did manage to come up with a solution. Andrea and Leland traveled there and got glue! Laura called to give us an ETA and I told her. She in turn told Joe and they couldn't stop laughing. Bless their hearts. I had already set up an appointment for Monday with the dentist as I had been suspicious that all was not well. Now I had to have a soft diet so I found that eating a half gallon of ice cream and a large amount of Laura's birthday cake was a safe bet. Now to fix this mess our out of pocket expense will be $1250.00. Isn't that special! In the meantime I continue to eat ice cream and isn't it lovely how chocolate melts in one's mouth?!.
Now as my wonderful Mother-in-Law used to say, "who ever called it the golden years must have died quite young". As we get older our little aches and pains get more intense and for us women, hair starts sprouting on our chins and our legs are almost hairless. My magnifying mirror is 10X. I certainly don't want to walk around with a budding goatee! I am thankful to have hair on my head for the most part and it is silver. I am saving a fortune on getting my hair dyed. Let's look on the bright side! I am thankful to be able to laugh at this aging process.
We have a new car I can't drive but I love being a passenger in it. (Nissan Pathfinder). It was a good choice as it has a back-up camera and a lot of upgrades that we will probably never figure out. We sit up high and I don't bump my fragile head getting in and out. I could have used that back up system when I backed into a truck and two weeks later into a BMW. It was that nasty tumor that effected my left side.
So life goes on! We find fun things to do, bridge for me, poker for Leland, friends we go out to dinner with, and we go to the movies. As a matter of fact we just saw "Lone Survivor" which was based on a true story and absolutely fabulous. We do chores that are still necessary but not fun. But it's easier because we do them together. My wonderful Husband and I are deeply in love and enjoy being with one another. Maybe thats the golden part of growing old.
I am reading Charles Todds' new book "Hunting Shadows" an English mystery.
NORWEGIAN COOKIES
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
red and/or green sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add egg and extracts; beat until light and fluffy. Add flour and nuts; beat until just moistened. Cover and chill for one hour or until firm enough to handle. Shape into one inch balls, place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Flatten to 1/4 inch thickness with a glass dipped in colored sugar. Sprinkle with additional sugar if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are set. Yield: 3 dozen
Don't you find that having Grandchildren is lovely? They are such fun and we can spoil them silly but then - we can give them back to their rightful owners - their Parents'!
Now as my wonderful Mother-in-Law used to say, "who ever called it the golden years must have died quite young". As we get older our little aches and pains get more intense and for us women, hair starts sprouting on our chins and our legs are almost hairless. My magnifying mirror is 10X. I certainly don't want to walk around with a budding goatee! I am thankful to have hair on my head for the most part and it is silver. I am saving a fortune on getting my hair dyed. Let's look on the bright side! I am thankful to be able to laugh at this aging process.
We have a new car I can't drive but I love being a passenger in it. (Nissan Pathfinder). It was a good choice as it has a back-up camera and a lot of upgrades that we will probably never figure out. We sit up high and I don't bump my fragile head getting in and out. I could have used that back up system when I backed into a truck and two weeks later into a BMW. It was that nasty tumor that effected my left side.
So life goes on! We find fun things to do, bridge for me, poker for Leland, friends we go out to dinner with, and we go to the movies. As a matter of fact we just saw "Lone Survivor" which was based on a true story and absolutely fabulous. We do chores that are still necessary but not fun. But it's easier because we do them together. My wonderful Husband and I are deeply in love and enjoy being with one another. Maybe thats the golden part of growing old.
I am reading Charles Todds' new book "Hunting Shadows" an English mystery.
NORWEGIAN COOKIES
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
red and/or green sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add egg and extracts; beat until light and fluffy. Add flour and nuts; beat until just moistened. Cover and chill for one hour or until firm enough to handle. Shape into one inch balls, place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Flatten to 1/4 inch thickness with a glass dipped in colored sugar. Sprinkle with additional sugar if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are set. Yield: 3 dozen
Don't you find that having Grandchildren is lovely? They are such fun and we can spoil them silly but then - we can give them back to their rightful owners - their Parents'!
Friday, January 17, 2014
A BIG HELLO
It has been awhile since I have written on this blog. I know I was distracted by the upcoming MRI to the point that I ignored a lot of stuff. What a waste of time worrying is! As leland tells me "don't worry until there is truly something to worry about". Obviously he is a very logical man. What a difference a day makes! January 15th turned out to be a good day even though I was frozen with trepidation over what might have been a less positive result. My tumor has shrunk a tad and that is wonderful news. I received so many tearful phone calls from family and friends and Micki set up a celebration Wednesday evening at the church dinner. Thank you dear friend. The procedure will be repeated in six months unless I develop problems.
Joy, the Pan Am cookbook arrived and I want to thank you so much. It was a wonderful surprise! Can't wait to read the entire book. I know it will make me nostalgic for those magic days with the premier airline in our history.
Andrea (she was a great comfort to us) and Nicholas were in the room when we got the results. Big hugs for all including Dr. Crocker. Tonight Laura and Joe will arrive. We will celebrate Laura's 30th birthday. They are still recuperating from their Hawaii trip and have made a mutual decision to never fly United Airlines. United cancelled their trip so they drove from Charlotte to Atlanta and went standby on Delta. The return was a two day affair, for which they paid top dollar on Alaska Airways. The bottom line is, however, they are home safe and sound and they made many fabulous memories.
I have been doing a lot of thinking of late about the whys and ifs of things that happen to us in life. I wish I could come up with answers but the bottom line is that I don't think that God gives us more than we can handle. People absolutely amaze me in so many positive ways. Even if they are grieving or suffering themselves they always take the time to check up on me and others. There is such goodness in my fellow human beings that at times I feel lacking. I know that I genuinely care about people and I have always had and have a innate curiosity about their pasts and their families. But, I feel that I should do more for others. That, as previously stated is my resolution for 2014. I just have to find my niche and a friend to go with me. It will happen! I do know that having a sense of humor is an absolute necessity.
i am so content with my life and realize how fortunate Leland and I are to have such wonderful and caring children. Catherine, the Mother of my four terrific stepdaughters has been a staunch supporter of my recovery and has prayed fervently for me. Thank you Cathy!
It is also important (forgive me for belaboring the point) to pay attention to what is happening to our country. Our Grandchildren will suffer the consequences of too much government control. Children in the United States should not go hungry and be deprived of a proper education. Congress wastes so much money. Our wonderful Arm Forces should also have the money needed to keep them prepared for any eventuality. Remember there are people who exist, that do no like the United States and for what we stand for: freedom.
Parents stay on top of what your children are being taught in their individual schools and very importantly, the friends they choose to hang around with. Granted it is much more difficult to raise children in this hi-tech environment but put limits on their exposure to video games etc. Enough said!
My friend Mary introduced me to the author Adriana Trigiana and so I am about to read "The Supreme Macaroni Company" after I complete Jack Higgins latest novel.
KEERN CURRY
One pound ground beef
One very large garlic clove
One chopped onion
One to two tablespoon tomato paste
One teaspoon vinegar
One heaping tablespoon curry powder
Saute above ingredients. Serve with rice and condiments such as chutney, raisins, peanuts etc. It's mighty good!
Stay well dear readers. Love, Arlene a.k.a. Tee
Joy, the Pan Am cookbook arrived and I want to thank you so much. It was a wonderful surprise! Can't wait to read the entire book. I know it will make me nostalgic for those magic days with the premier airline in our history.
Andrea (she was a great comfort to us) and Nicholas were in the room when we got the results. Big hugs for all including Dr. Crocker. Tonight Laura and Joe will arrive. We will celebrate Laura's 30th birthday. They are still recuperating from their Hawaii trip and have made a mutual decision to never fly United Airlines. United cancelled their trip so they drove from Charlotte to Atlanta and went standby on Delta. The return was a two day affair, for which they paid top dollar on Alaska Airways. The bottom line is, however, they are home safe and sound and they made many fabulous memories.
I have been doing a lot of thinking of late about the whys and ifs of things that happen to us in life. I wish I could come up with answers but the bottom line is that I don't think that God gives us more than we can handle. People absolutely amaze me in so many positive ways. Even if they are grieving or suffering themselves they always take the time to check up on me and others. There is such goodness in my fellow human beings that at times I feel lacking. I know that I genuinely care about people and I have always had and have a innate curiosity about their pasts and their families. But, I feel that I should do more for others. That, as previously stated is my resolution for 2014. I just have to find my niche and a friend to go with me. It will happen! I do know that having a sense of humor is an absolute necessity.
i am so content with my life and realize how fortunate Leland and I are to have such wonderful and caring children. Catherine, the Mother of my four terrific stepdaughters has been a staunch supporter of my recovery and has prayed fervently for me. Thank you Cathy!
It is also important (forgive me for belaboring the point) to pay attention to what is happening to our country. Our Grandchildren will suffer the consequences of too much government control. Children in the United States should not go hungry and be deprived of a proper education. Congress wastes so much money. Our wonderful Arm Forces should also have the money needed to keep them prepared for any eventuality. Remember there are people who exist, that do no like the United States and for what we stand for: freedom.
Parents stay on top of what your children are being taught in their individual schools and very importantly, the friends they choose to hang around with. Granted it is much more difficult to raise children in this hi-tech environment but put limits on their exposure to video games etc. Enough said!
My friend Mary introduced me to the author Adriana Trigiana and so I am about to read "The Supreme Macaroni Company" after I complete Jack Higgins latest novel.
KEERN CURRY
One pound ground beef
One very large garlic clove
One chopped onion
One to two tablespoon tomato paste
One teaspoon vinegar
One heaping tablespoon curry powder
Saute above ingredients. Serve with rice and condiments such as chutney, raisins, peanuts etc. It's mighty good!
Stay well dear readers. Love, Arlene a.k.a. Tee
Friday, January 3, 2014
THE NEW YEAR
Well, the tree has been undecorated, taken apart and stored. The next chore for Leland is to take down the multitude of Christmas lights that are bedecking our home (the talk of the neighborhood). I have moved things back to their normal location and tried to organize all of the decorations. We had a lovely Christmas and it was totally stress free. That's a very good thing.
It is so cold! Laura and Joe were supposed to leave for Hawaii this am but their flight was cancelled, along with thousands of others, until Sunday. Darn that global warming! Hopefully, they will leave early tomorrow morning as Laura worked her magic after a lengthy telephone wait and Joe got their hotel sorted out and extended for an additional day. Joe's Parents', Sisters', Aunt and Uncle and cousin (who will arrive from New Zealand are all going). The trip has been planned for months and obviously it was a disappointment but how wonderful that they will all be together when they finally disembark from a very long flight.
Can you imagine being stuck on a ship in the Antarctic for days on end. By the way, it is summer there. It is a Russian ship with scientists etc. some of whom are studying global warming. See, it reared its ugly head again. I understand the rescue ship also got stuck! I hope that they have enough food and drink to sustain their adventure. Will the ice ever melt? Where is Al Gore when you need him? Oh, that's right with all his millions he made on touting and writing about global warming he is probably luxuriating in a nice warm climate. There I go again, being politically incorrect. It seems to me that the older I get, the more difficulty I have censoring my opines. Reader beware!
Needless to say, I am hoping for the best (status quo would be wonderful) from my upcoming MRI. But, as a friend said, "we play the cards we are dealt". I will update caringbridge on the results.
Grandpa and Grandma Centre got to play in the snow with their Grandson, Jack (you know, my adorable always smiling Grand-nephew) this past week. Fortunately we got some pictures of him opening his Christmas presents and being cuddled by my Sister. Jack is growing so fast that I hope that I can see him sooner rather than later. I am looking forward, God willing to going with my Sister to visit Mary Rutherford in St Simmons, Ga sometime in the spring. We pray for Mary as she grieves for her Husband, John.
I know that everyone has marvelous intentions of losing weight, exercising, doing good deeds, etc in 2014 but what I truly wish for one and all is good health and happiness. Everything else will eventually fall into place. Everyday we should take a moment to count our blessings and to be thankful for the people we have in our lives. Monetary things are not as important as relationships and being cognizant of the needs of others whom we care about. 2013 was not the best of years, health wise but I learned so much about myself and the true meaning of the kindness and caring of others. I also developed such an abiding faith in God. I am truly in his hands now. Love to you all, Arlene
BAKED ARTICHOKE AND CRAB SPREAD
1 -14 ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1- 6 ounce crabmeat, drained and flaked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon paprika
crackers
Preheat oven to 325F. combine first four ingredients in a bowl. Transfer to a 8 1/2 X 5 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake until top is browned, about 30 minutes. Serve with crackers.
It is so cold! Laura and Joe were supposed to leave for Hawaii this am but their flight was cancelled, along with thousands of others, until Sunday. Darn that global warming! Hopefully, they will leave early tomorrow morning as Laura worked her magic after a lengthy telephone wait and Joe got their hotel sorted out and extended for an additional day. Joe's Parents', Sisters', Aunt and Uncle and cousin (who will arrive from New Zealand are all going). The trip has been planned for months and obviously it was a disappointment but how wonderful that they will all be together when they finally disembark from a very long flight.
Can you imagine being stuck on a ship in the Antarctic for days on end. By the way, it is summer there. It is a Russian ship with scientists etc. some of whom are studying global warming. See, it reared its ugly head again. I understand the rescue ship also got stuck! I hope that they have enough food and drink to sustain their adventure. Will the ice ever melt? Where is Al Gore when you need him? Oh, that's right with all his millions he made on touting and writing about global warming he is probably luxuriating in a nice warm climate. There I go again, being politically incorrect. It seems to me that the older I get, the more difficulty I have censoring my opines. Reader beware!
Needless to say, I am hoping for the best (status quo would be wonderful) from my upcoming MRI. But, as a friend said, "we play the cards we are dealt". I will update caringbridge on the results.
Grandpa and Grandma Centre got to play in the snow with their Grandson, Jack (you know, my adorable always smiling Grand-nephew) this past week. Fortunately we got some pictures of him opening his Christmas presents and being cuddled by my Sister. Jack is growing so fast that I hope that I can see him sooner rather than later. I am looking forward, God willing to going with my Sister to visit Mary Rutherford in St Simmons, Ga sometime in the spring. We pray for Mary as she grieves for her Husband, John.
I know that everyone has marvelous intentions of losing weight, exercising, doing good deeds, etc in 2014 but what I truly wish for one and all is good health and happiness. Everything else will eventually fall into place. Everyday we should take a moment to count our blessings and to be thankful for the people we have in our lives. Monetary things are not as important as relationships and being cognizant of the needs of others whom we care about. 2013 was not the best of years, health wise but I learned so much about myself and the true meaning of the kindness and caring of others. I also developed such an abiding faith in God. I am truly in his hands now. Love to you all, Arlene
BAKED ARTICHOKE AND CRAB SPREAD
1 -14 ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1- 6 ounce crabmeat, drained and flaked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon paprika
crackers
Preheat oven to 325F. combine first four ingredients in a bowl. Transfer to a 8 1/2 X 5 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake until top is browned, about 30 minutes. Serve with crackers.
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