Food, Family, Faith, and Fun — all wrapped up in one!
Some people travel for work. I work, so that I can travel. So far, I have managed to see about 30 countries on four continents. But of course, some countries get visited over, and over, and over again. Sweden, I am talking to you! 😊 I try to not travel like a tourist, but prefer … Read more Icelandic Cioppino – a hearty international seafood chowder
My mom was the master of frugality. We lived on a shoestring during the year so that we could travel during the summer. We had amazing adventures on school teacher savings! Even though Mom did not enjoy cooking, and I grew up during the 60’s and 70’s when processed foods were pushed on families, we … Read more Mint Chip Meringues
Some times using recipes from generations ago result in simple delights. I have often heard that sugar cookies are the most uncomplicated and basic cookie, but I’ve only made them from scratch once. They were an epic failure — dry, crumbly, tasteless, and basically unappetizing. And using gluten free flour just made the disaster more … Read more Gluten Free Toffee Bars
This past summer my Swedish parents both turned 90 years old. They had “adopted” me 40 years ago while I was living in Sweden and attending graduate school. I return almost yearly to visit them, and count it a huge honor to be part of their family. In preparation for their birthday celebration, I was … Read more Lemon Curd
Living alone has it’s perks — — — the house is easier to keep clean, there is more freedom to travel and visit friends and family, the entire bed is mine, I have sole control over the remote, I can play piano any time of the day (or night), and I don’t have to serve … Read more Savory Sous Vide Egg Bites
There is something so comforting about a rich, simple, satisfying bowl of soup. Soup season could last year ’round in my mind, but I don’t always have time to watch over a pot on the stove. With a little morning prep time, this soup is perfect for family suppers, parties, and company. Since I eat … Read more Gluten Free Chicken & Wild Rice Soup
I have never enjoyed baking — too much measuring, math and accuracy is required, and it feels a little restrictive to me. Cooking is more free-form, while baking requires that I follow the rules in order to be successful. That’s where my rebellious nature kicks in:
“Don’t tell me what to do!”
One of the first gardens I planted was filled with every black flower I could find. This was somewhat of a fad during the Victorian era, which I find intriguing. Can you imagine elegant women in long, floofy dresses tending gardens? That might be as difficult as imagining ME working in flowerbeds. But I tried.
Without history we are infants. Of all intellectual pursuits, history is the most supremely useful. That is why people crave it and need ever more of it.
– Simon Jenkins, “The London Times”
I am a morning person – – – – – please don’t hate me! I think this “morning disorder” comes from an intense need and/or desire to have some alone-time before starting a busy day. I light a candle, pour a mug of coffee, pull out my Bible and journal, and get lost in the … Read more Simply the Easiest Egg Bake
