A New Fence...A New World

The fence we had to replace is finally down, and the new one is now in place. The project took us several weeks, but it was the weather that held up the process, and not the workers. But it is officially done and we are pleased with the overall appearance, and secure in knowing no one can get to the dogs. They are safe.

Their world, however, has changed. No longer can they see past the barrier that keeps them in the yard. There are no neighbors (dogs, cats, and people) to watch their every move. They can no longer see out to the street to watch the cars and pedestrians go by. They are limited to using their sense of sound and smell to identify something past the fence. Those senses are strong, so the barrier I wanted to decrease barking does not exist. BUT it has been limited, so the backyard is now a quieter world.

They have the squirrels and the occasional chipmunk to keep them happy. They can still chase birds who are daft enough to land in the yard to rest. They are happy, they are safe, and I am very happy!

The Great American Dinner Experience

Growing up in a family of seven, my parents were masters at making the dollar stretch as far as it could go. Of course, at the time, we had very little appreciation, if any, of how creative they were, and how lucky we were that they were able to be so resourceful. (What do little kids know anyway?) Their culinary inspiration for meals is one I personally remember only all to well. I have blogged about their home made macaroni, and hinted about my dad’s pasta, but they were bonus meals in comparison to the Spam inventions and the various innovations we had to eat on a slice of toast.

My dad was an ex-navy man, who knew all too well what meal rationing was all about and how effective it could be during the tougher times. Those meals at sea would make most heave, but when times are tough (and seas are rough), one learns to deal with it. He had to, and so did we. So it was quite often that we were “treated” to a navy meal on dry land! Of course, at the time, when we were little, we were easily tricked into believing we were eating something other kids were not so lucky to experience. So we thought.

One of the meals were we served often was Spam. My parents could take a slice of Spam and lead us to believe we were being fed something from a five star restaurant. However, not all Spam meals were equal. When times were good, we were lucky enough to have not only a ring of pineapple on the spam, but a maraschino cherry topped the pineapple ring. When times were a wee bit tougher, the only thing that graced that Spam was a tiny bit of brown sugar. The Spam was broiled to allow the brown sugar to glaze. Even without the ‘extras’ my siblings and I all thought it a good meal.

The other gastronomic delights my parents made for us were something ‘creamed’ on a slice of toast. Usually it was a mixture of tuna and peas in some creamy white sauce piled on a piece of white toast. The truth is, when you are hungry, and not much exists for dinner, you will eat anything. Now as a kid I never remember going to school to tell the kids what we had for dinner. I am not sure if it was because of the possible scowled faces we might have faced, or it wasn’t anything a normal kid shared with their peers. No wonder it was dubbed S.O.S.

“I had creamed tuna and peas on toast for dinner last night!”

“Wow! Can I get that recipe from your mom?”

See. It doesn’t really work into a playground discussion. So you grow up wondering, at times, if you were only kid that had to eat that crap. Years later I find out through real culinary dialogues at work with grownup peers that we were NOT the only kids on the planet to eat such divine treats. It seems most of us growing up had hard working parents just trying to make ends meet the best way they knew how.

Spam found its way to a great many American homes with large families. No wonder it was such a hot commodity, and apparently still is...perhaps there are many parents out there still trying to make ends meet the best way they can these days. And IF things continue in our country the way they are going, perhaps we more of us will be eating these great American staples.

Migo is Moving to Grenada!!!

The first thing you should note is the three exclamation points in the title. That ought to convey how excited I am about Migo (also known as Meego and Meegs) moving to Grenada this August. It's not that I do not adore the kid, I do. He is just a very busy kid who always seems to test my patience and my ability to repair the damage before Jim finds out about it.

Life really has not really been the same since his arrival here. Oh sure, there's more dogs to love, and certainly more love to get in return, but the back yard has taken a HUGE beating. He has proven to need my constant attention. Even the simple task of reading a magazine takes on a whole new meaning when this 80 pound dog thinks he can merely sit in my lap!

His energy is unlimited. If you have been following my blog for any time, you know he has added much to our lives. So how is it I am so excited about his leaving home? It's simple really. He is going to provide Caitlin with a good source of companionship in Grenada, and because she has missed her dogs terribly, this is a good thing. The two of them will have lots of fun and many adventures together. (I promise to wipe a tear every now and again from my eyes).

The real question we should be asking...is Grenada ready for Migo?

While he is away, my blog will be left empty of Migo stories, however if you feel the need to know how he is doing in Grenada or what trouble he might be causing, (other than watching the news media for any "Crazy Dog in Grenada" stories), you can add to your favorite places the following site: A Golden in Grenada. I'm quite sure the blog will be full of good stories courtesy of Migo and Caitlin as the two settle down in Grenada. In the meantime, Migo has promised to keep us posted as to what he is doing to prepare for this adventure...so please check out the blog. It might be fun! ( I know I'm curious).

Life on the Farm and Who's Afraid of Horseys?

When our family gets together, one of the places we do so is at John and Heidi’s (My brother and sister-in-law) farm in Burlington County (Which is on the other side of the state, almost). They own an awesome piece of land in a rural area (16 acres). An assortment of structures dominates the property, including their home, and my mom’s home, as well. And what farm would be complete without a barn, and because they are a horse farm, an indoor ring? There are stalls for the horsey guests, although there are two freeloaders (John’s term, not mine) that also dwell in their own stalls (Huey and Bugs). And if John were to give a tour, the highlight of that tour would be his now famous (well it is among the family) workshop, where he is known to tinker in sawdust and metal scraps.

There are chickens, who are working for their room and board by laying eggs, and the occasional pheasant who, well might end up on the family’s dinner table. So do the bunnies that frolic all over the property. Cute as they might be, they are only thought of as wild game to hunt, and eventually a meal. John has many farm rules, but the one followed by many is “Do not name the food” (or do not consider the animals your pets). I have learned to ask what, and who, might be on the dinner plate.

Heidi is in charge of the horseys and all that goes with that end of the farm. Among some of the things she does is to teach people to ride and to show their horseys in big horsey shows, both of which she does well. I have seen the ribbons. She loves what she does.

I have to admit that I was never fond of horseys. In fact, until my niece Jillian began riding at age three, I was terrified of them. Seriously. I have over the years made several attempts at trying to ride, but each time, there was something that got me out of the saddle very quick. So when Jill began to ride at age three, I thought I’d better not look stupid to a three year old, so began my goal of overcoming the horsey fear.

One of the horseys John owns (again much to his disliking) is Huey. Huey is the big lug of a horsey that has overtime helped me to conquer my fear. Which is odd considering his large size, but he has. Perhaps it’s his gentle soul, those big eyes. Not sure, but he has helped me more than I can express in one blog. As has Jill and Heidi.

So besides all the wonderful memories I have of visiting the farm to share in family celebrations, I have been able to celebrate a few personal triumphs of my own as well. I am still cautious around some of the horseys, but when I feel the need to nurse my fear, I head over to nuzzle with Huey, one of the sweetest horseys I have ever met.

“Feel the fear and do it anyway.” ~Susan Jeffers, 1988

Happy Easter to My Family and Friends!

In this uncertain world full of changes and doubt,
These are the blessings I can't do without,
The three golden keys to what life's all about
Faith, family, and friends.

When I'm feeling unsure
or my heart's lost its way,
I try to remember
to reach out and pray,
And I always find meaning
to comfort my day
In faith, family, and friends.

Wherever I go
and whatever I do,
This is my wish
for myself and for you -
That we'll always find strength
in these things that are true
In faith, family, and friends.

What always sees me through,
what's really important
to my life and my heart,
are my faith in God
and the warm and wonderful
people in my world -
especially people like you.

Have a Wonderful Easter!

Spring Ball!

It’s that time of year again! While many are digging out their ball, mitts, and bats, or seeking the best possible professional baseball tickets, I am getting ready for my niece Jilly’s softball season. I have shared my thoughts regarding her softball expertise before, but she is older and a much stronger player, and now loves to pitch! (And she is damn good at it too).

As I write this blog entry, it has yet to be decided of she will play for the Junior Varsity or varsity team. She has started the scrimmage games where the coach’s observe, ponder, and then decide upon their teams. If Jill has her way, she would play JV and get as much ball time as possible. Jill also likes the JV coach a whole lot better, as do most people who come into contact with the Varsity coach. (Some people are not coach material, and should really accept it).

Jill plays left field and she pitches. I love to watch her pitch. She has this incredibly fast, smooth, and accurate pitch just about every time. (And this is not just her aunt talking). As for her hitting...I have no idea about her statistics, but I do know that when she hits the ball, she does with so much power that it usually gets her home again rather quickly or several of her teammates! BIG swing, big hit!

Of course, spring is not without baseball games and my nephew Joshua will ensure I get to watch him as well. He’s also a good player and one I love to watch. I think, but not being 100% sure, he plays on a travel team. So his games will be more compact and hopefully done on my weekends off. In any event, I look forward to watching him play. His smiles light up the field. As do Jill’s. I love these two dearly and love watching them play ball.

Yeah! It's Spring Time!

"The change from storm and winter to serene and mild weather, from dark and sluggish hours to bright and elastic ones, is a memorable crisis which all things proclaim. It is seemingly instantaneous at last." So America's great philosopher-poet of the woods, Henry David Thoreau, observed 150 years ago.

Spring time! It is finally here. Earlier this week, my crocus began to show their tiny pretty white and purple blooms, but last night’s heavy rains knocked their little blooms to the ground. My forsythia bushes are also beginning to show their buds, and I expect by next week, they will be in full bloom. The daffodils are up, but yet no where close to showing their yellow flowers, but I can wait. Spring does not have to come in at full speed.

Last week, on some of the warmer days, I was able to get the back yard raked. Not all the leaves are gone yet off of the white oak trees, so more raking is in my future, but at least the dead grass is gone, and the area free from those pesky acorns. Bushes that needed pruning have been pruned (those that were not pruned by my dogs), so that job is completed.

I cannot wait for the greenness of spring. I love hearing the birds chirping now in the early am. I love the smell of spring, the feel of warmer days. Good bye winter!

Out With The Tide...

Like most people these days, the rising cost of foods and grocery store items have left me wondering, where does it all end? And with the rise in oil, will it end? There are many items I put in my shopping cart that I never pay attention to the price. These include the items that no matter the cost, I still have to buy them; typically personal items or staples we use every day. (I will not give up my Olay products, some items are sacred)

I am also a coupon user and try to match the coupon with the sale item, thus adding to the savings. I also buy some items in bulk, but only IF the savings are really apparent. Recently while shopping, Jim asked if we could try a new (and very cheap) clothes detergent. Give up the Tide? I wasn’t so sure. I almost panicked right in aisle 12. I have been a Tide user for years. (More than I’d like to admit). Alright, I would be willing to try it, but if it does not prove to be a good detergent (I was thinking Daniel’s work clothes which reek of cooking grease), then I will go right back to MY Tide, no matter how much it costs. Jim agreed. (Meanwhile, before my results were conclusive, he brought home two more jugs because it was on sale). Humph.

Much to my surprise, and I believe having a good washer helps, the cheaper product worked, and worked well. It seems there are better products out there as good as MY Tide. Who knew? Now my only regret is all the dollars I could have saved over time. Now I am on my way to investigating cheaper products of those items I have been loyal to over many years.

What’s St. Patrick’s Day without corned beef and cabbage, a baked potato on the side, and some fresh home made Irish soda bread? Well? Exactly.

My corned beef will be made different this year. I normally throw it in the crock pot, covered with seasoning and water, and let it brew all day. I’ll do the same this year, but my stock will be comprised of a stout ale and brown sugar. I’m looking forward to what some have said is an “awesome” way to cook it. We’ll see. My mom and sister will be here to add their comments.

I know that many prefer the boiled potato, but I like a baked potato with my meal. And then there are those who skip the cabbage and potato and simply make a Rueben with their portion of beef. So I will have the sauerkraut, rye bread, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing available. My bases are covered.

My addition of Irish soda bread is not something I have always done, but several years ago I was given this recipe and it has always been a big hit. So without any hesitation, I will share this recipe with you all. Happy St. Patty’s day to you all!

Irish Soda Bread
3 cups flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
3 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbs caraway seeds (optional)
1 1/4 cup raisins
1 pint sour cream

Mix the first 7 ingredients, then add sour cream Mold into two round loaves. Brush with egg yolk. Bake 350 degrees for 50 minutes.

"May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you
In the palm of his hand."

The Power of Prayer and Friendships

Raised predominately in a Methodist church, I cannot profess to understand the prayers devoted to the Rosary. However, raised in a Christian environment, I do understand and value the power of prayer. As a nurse, I know that medicine and prayer have proved to be loyal friends. When you include prayer in your daily life, you may become more open to life, more flexible, more centered. Many people have found it easier to resolve their problems and cope with stressful situations (medical emergencies, health concerns). I know I have.

At her insistence, a dear friend of mine has lent me her Rosary beads, blessed by Pope John Paul II, on two occasions. She felt I needed the power of the rosary to be with me. The Rosary denotes both a set of prayer beads used in the devotion and the devotional prayer itself, which combines vocal (or silent) prayer and meditation centered around sequences of reciting the Lord's Prayer followed by ten recitations of the "Hail Mary" prayer and a single recitation of "Glory Be to the Father"; each of these sequences is known as a decade. What she now knows is that her friendship is more valuable to me.

There are several reasons we pray, and I will not go into this in my blog, as it is my belief that prayer, while common among many of us, is a very private and personal thing. We all pray in a variety of ways, for a variety of reasons. I do know that prayer is just as important as faith. So with or without the Rosary, I know that my faith in God, as well as a good friend standing by me, will help see me through difficult times, no matter what they may be. I appreciate my friend and her kindness. The power of prayer, it seems to me, is as important as the power of a good friendship.

Prayer indeed is good, but while calling on the gods a man should himself lend a hand.
~ Hippocrates

Caribbean Update

Not much has been said about “Caitlin’s Life in the Caribbean” for some time. I thought I’d give Cait a break and take her out of the spotlight. However, it is time to put her back out there again. Updates are important.

She is currently getting through midterms. Yeah, I know...midterms! Time is flying. She is also currently exploring her potential living arrangement options for the Fall Semester. The dorms (click here to see her dorm room) have proved to be the best place for the noisier students, the party people, and for those individuals who feel sharing the washer and dryer is not something you really have to do. So with that in mind, Caitlin has been combing the housing ads, the web, and the chatting with the locals for a better place to inhabit. She has a couple of choices in mind, and a possibility of a roomie from NJ!

No matter where she ends up, she is desperately hoping that one of her prospective roomies will be Meego. The kid’s bags have been packed since January (I have been more hopeful than Caitlin regarding his leaving here and heading there). The only thing left for him to accomplish is obtaining his therapy dog status, which begins later this month. Then he can fly right along side of Cait on the plane, no questions asked. The perfect way to fly!

Caitlin has taken the opportunity to enjoy the local beaches when she has had the time, and when the Caribbean has provided the best weather (less rain). She has not been the least bit timid in “getting out there” (see, those RC cruises were helpful), and has enjoyed (albeit the prices) shopping at the local markets and getting acquainted with the local area. She has, without any difficulty, settled in and can easily call Grenada her “home away from home.” That’s important.

However...

There only 66 (from today, March 12) days left until she is home...I know, I am counting. =)

The Kid Did It!

Who would have guessed? Meego can now proudly display his “Canine Good Citizen” papers. He passed his class last night with flying colors. Now it is onto Therapy Dog class, so he can help his big sister at the library. Go Meego Go!

PS: His hair is growing back...he is starting to look more like a Golden and less like a yellow Lab. Life is good for Meegs!

PSS: Special thanks to Pete and Chris, Meego's trainers at Kindred Souls in Howell, NJ.

Eating Healthy Can = Good Food

Eating healthy can sometimes be boring, unless you happen to come across a great recipe. I have found a great way to incorporate black beans into our diet, in order to increase our fiber and protein intake. I served the dish with fish, but after eating it, I believe you could it alone as a small meal. I had to share this recipe...

Mango and Black Bean Salad

1 1/2 cups chopped peeled ripe mango
1 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/2 cup cooked wild or brown rice
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons roasted tomatillo or fresh salsa (I used mild salsa froma jar)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (15-ounce) can organic no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Toss gently to mix.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 2/3 cup)

CALORIES 167 (29% from fat); FAT 5.4g (sat 0.7g,mono 3.4g,poly 0.8g); PROTEIN 5.2g; CHOLESTEROL 0.0mg; CALCIUM 41mg; SODIUM 226mg; FIBER 5.5g; IRON 1.1mg; CARBOHYDRATE 25.5g

Source: Cooking Light, MARCH 2008

Why Blog?

A recent discussion at work centered on the writing of diaries and online journals, or blogs, and what real purpose they served to those who wrote them, and to those who read them. I not only write this blog, but I am always looking for good food blogs to read. Those are the ones I really enjoy, as well as learn from in regards to food and food preparation.

So why do we blog? More importantly, why does Wendy blog? Herman Melville put it best when he said, "We cannot live for ourselves alone. Our lives are connected by a thousand invisible threads, and along these sympathetic fibers, our actions run as causes and return to us as results." A perfect description of blogging, don't you think?

I started offline journaling about 6-7 years ago in an attempt to sort through my problems. I was going through some difficult times, and in some odd way it helped to write down and list all my problems. Like seeing them in print would lessen the effects. You’d almost think seeing them listed might make matters worse. I have read those old writings and while many of the old problems are gone, I wonder if journaling at that time really did help me in the end. I think it did. I know it did.

Journaling is way for us to identify where our heads might be, to list insights into current problems, feelings, emotions. It’s also been a way for me to do writing. I love writing and sharing a piece of who I am and what I am doing in my own life with others; others being you the readers, my family and dear friends. Perhaps my thoughts stimulate others to wonder about themselves. Maybe. And it certainly is a way for me to share what’s going on here and in Grenada with all of you.

My blog for me is like taking a long walk through the woods. It’s my quiet time, and provides me with the chance to really think about what’s going on in my life. Sometimes I have no idea where my posts will go, or where they might end up. My blog is a way to connect to you, the reader. There’s a certain joy in that connection I hold dear. I hope you enjoy reading my blog, as much as i enjoy writing and sharing it with you.

“Each new day is a blank page in the diary of your life. The secret of success is in turning that diary into the best story you possibly can.” ~ Douglas Pagels, A Wonderful Resolution For The New Year!

It's Wubba Time!

It flies through the air, it whips around at fast speeds, it squeaks, and it gets chewed on!! But mostly, it is loved.

He spins, he runs, he slides, and he twirls! He is happy and I just laugh!

Our puppy Meego has the silliest way about him (when he is not being bad), but when he plays with his Wubba, he is like a kitty rolling in catnip. What’s a Wubba? A Wubba, it seems, is a dogs best friend, and Meego has proved this time and time again. Per one doggy site, it is an innovative toy. “With its durable nylon-covered mini tennis ball and auditorily-intense squeaker ball, the interactive toss-and-tug Wubba Toy is a double delight to the canine senses.” And it was recently recognized as one of the best new dog products at Global Pet Expo, America’s largest international pet industry trade show! I can believe it.

Meego got his first Wubba from Caitlin when he was a puppy, but it as time has passed, he seems to enjoy it more and more. And when he plays, he plays! Our home is a center hall colonial and this provides him with an endless race track. He and his Wubba average speeds that are not even recognizable by radar! I’m not kidding. But mostly he makes me laugh, and that is what having pets is all about.

One Golden: $600.00
One Wubba: $8.00
Watching them together: priceless

My Dental Nightmare

“I’d rather have a root canal...that was more fun than a root canal.” These are common expressions most us have used a time or two to convey our feelings about something we have or might encounter that makes us uncomfortable. Fear of the dentist and the pain they sometimes, but not always inflict upon us, has a majority of us scared to death of these people. Dentophobia, or fear of the dentist, isn't as uncommon as most people might think. One bad experience, or horrible dentist, can create a horrific fantasy in the mind of a person who is scheduled, or should be scheduled, to see go to a dentist.

I have had my share of dental horrors, and ONE horrible dentist, like many people, but my fears are not so bad that I do not go on a regular basis. My teeth, except one stupid molar, are all in great shape, and over the course of my life time, I have only had two cavities. Not bad.

This one molar has had its share of dental work. First there was the tiny cavity, which then grew to a bigger cavity, which then progressed to root canal (by an idiot), which then lead to a crown (by the same idiot), which then lead to a pulpectomy (to fix something the idiot did wrong), which has lead to a new problem. (I should have had the damn tooth pulled 23 years ago, despite its tiny cavity).

Today, that problem was fixed by Dr. Dental McDreamy. I am not kidding. Actually his name is Dr. Milone and he was personable, caring, good to look at, and not afraid to load me with enough lidocaine to numb the gums of a beast. He had no choice but to pull the bastard out. I normally would oppose to losing a tooth, but after 23 nightmare years with this tooth, all I can say is good riddens!

Interestingly enough, the hole left behind was filled with a bone grafting material that comes from cows. Cait would like knowing this information. I just hope it came from California cows, because that area of my mouth needs some happiness.

What's really worse than a root canal?
The Chicago Dental Society recently polled its 350 member dentists to find out:

10. A long car ride with in-laws.
9. Getting a Brazilian bikini wax.
8. A birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese
7. Listening to teenagers' music.
6. Being bitten by a patient.
5. Asking a girl out for a first date.
4. Watching the Cubs. (huh?)
3. Watching political ads. (This seems painless to me)
2. Giving birth – at least a root canal doesn't go home with you, need diaper changes, cry, then learn to talk.

And the No. 1 answer, at least according to dentists:
Hearing someone say, "That was about as much fun as a root canal."

My Cookie Obsession

I have an obsession with cookies. Not eating them, although I do love a good cookie, but in finding good cookie recipes. Bars, dropped, refrigerator, rolled, or molded, it makes no difference. The definition of obsession means a “compulsive preoccupation” with an idea. Thankfully my obsession in baking them does take breaks, just not long ones. However, my search for the best cookie is ongoing, whether it be a web-based search, or in any book store where recipe books might be found. If it is out there, I will find it! The word “preoccupation” is a bit dramatic.

I got to thinking about my fascination with cookies this morning while dusting my book shelves. I have collected 13 “Cookie” cookbooks and 25 magazines devoted to cookie recipes. If I throw in all the handmade recipe cards I have personally collected, and pages I have ripped out of magazines (mostly in doctors offices when the receptionist wasn’t looking), I might have roughly a million recipes for all kinds of cookies. (OK, not a million, but close).

And is doesn’t stop there. I recently found out that Martha Stewart is coming out with a whole cookbook devoted to cookies! I have to admit that while I AM NOT A FAN of hers, I am chomping at the bit to get my hands on that book. I mean there has to be a few cookie recipes in there that I might not have yet. Right? Maybe it is an obsession?

I am always on the hunt for all kinds of cookies although my favorite recipes are biscotti recipes. I love that bite of crunchy goodness, usually filled with loads of goodies. I have one recipe for Gingerbread Biscotti that is my favorite. Again I find myself wanting to share a recipe.

Prep and Cook Time: about 1 hour. Notes: To toast the almonds, place in a baking pan and bake in a 350° oven, shaking pan often, until golden, about 15 minutes. You can store the cookies airtight for up to 3 days. (If they last that long)

Ingredients
1/2 cup (1/4 lb.) butter, at room temperature
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup dark molasses
1/4 cup minced fresh ginger
3 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup coarsely chopped toasted blanched almonds (see notes)

1. In a bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in molasses, ginger, and eggs until well blended, scraping down sides of bowl as needed.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Stir or beat into butter mixture until well blended. Stir in almonds.
3. Spoon 1 cup dough in dollops down the length of a buttered or cooking parchment-lined 12- by 15-inch baking sheet, 1 inch from edge. Spoon another 1 cup dough down the length of the other side of the sheet. With floured fingers, pat each strip of dough into a flat 13-inch loaf, about 1/2 inch thick and 2 inches wide. Repeat with remaining dough (dough can stand while first loaves bake).
4. Bake loaves in a 350° oven until golden, 15 to 20 minutes; if baking more than one pan at a time, switch pan positions halfway through baking.
5. With a sharp knife, cut loaves crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Separate slices slightly and tip each onto a cut side.
6. Return to oven and bake until cookies are slightly darker and firm and dry to the touch, 15 to 20 minutes longer. Gently slide biscotti onto racks to cool completely. Enjoy!

Yield: Makes about 95 cookies

Nutritional Information
CALORIES 46(39% from fat); FAT 2g (sat 0.7g); PROTEIN 0.9g; CHOLESTEROL 9.4mg; SODIUM 21mg; FIBER 0.3g; CARBOHYDRATE 6.1g

SOURCE: Cooking Light

Spring Cleaning and Purging

Spring cleaning. It’s a big job, and one not everyone likes to do, but one I graciously and aggressively tackle each year because it means warmer weather is on the way and I can finally open the windows and chase away the dredges of winter! It also helps to chase away the winter blahs. Fresh curtains at the windows, cleaner windows (unless they are at nose level...that cleaning job is done almost once a week around this place), fresh carpets, more organized cupboards and closets...the list is almost endless. I love getting rid of the junk that has been just lying around...time to go!

According to several resources, the art of spring cleaning dates back to the Iranian Nowrus (there are various spellings and pronunciations). Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the Persian/Iranian Calendar. Iranians continue the practice of "khooneh takouni" which literally means "shaking the house" just before the New Year. Everything in the house is thoroughly cleaned, from the drapes to the furniture.

Another resource credits the Jewish culture which prepares their homes each spring for the celebration of Passover. In Greece, and other Orthodox nations, it is traditional to clean the house thoroughly either right before or during the first week of Great Lent, which is referred to as Clean Week. Others credit the spring cleaning tradition to our early American Settlers. And with good reason: homes were heated by wood fires, and during the long, cold winters, the wood smoke would permeate the entire household. Come spring, and at last the linens and carpets could be cleaned and aired outside, and walls and windows could be scrubbed clean.

No matter who gets the credit for its early beginnings, the tradition continues today in many cultures, all around the globe. I love starting fresh...and getting more organized. I love cleaning inside and out. I love new beginnings...the smell of fresh...the look of fresh. (The only cupboard I hate doing is the one in which all the plastic ware resides. That’s Cait’s job and she is not here, so it has to wait until May). =)

Hurry Spring Hurry!

"Spring is the time of year when it is summer the sun, and winter in the shade."
~ Charles Dickens

Axis of Evil

According to our President, George Bush, in his State of the Union Address on January 29th, 2002, he named Iran, Iraq, and North Korea the “Axis of Evil.” Apparently, our President has not met the real “Axis of Evil” which can be found here at my house. The axis rears its ugly head twice a day when it’s feeding time. We call the axis, Luke, Madison, and Meego. Lexy represents America.

Feeding four large dogs is no easy chore. Putting aside the expense (yes, I was aware of the potential expense before bringing each puppy home, but they are all so cute at 8 weeks of age, so who thinks rationally?), the very chore can be overwhelming when all four ‘think’ they are starving and I am not moving fast enough in filling their bowls.

And of course, there’s more to their diets that a simple scoop of dog food. We use Eukanuba dog products here. Meego is still on the “puppy” mix, as he is still growing, which should scare us; Lexy is on the “old dog” special needs mix; and Luke and Madison are on a “weight maintenance” mix. So right off the bat, it isn’t easy. Thankfully, I have three large bins that allow easy storage and retrieval of the products.

Each bowl then gets its own addition. Everyone gets a scoop of pumpkin, a multivitamin, and some form of glucosamine, and Madison gets a small scoop of unsweetened, low fat coconut. Because Lexy is Lexy, she gets an egg for breakfast and a hotdog in her bowl for dinner. (she has the need to feel special) And each day Meego and Madison get Vitamin C.

So where does the “axis of evil” come into play? Everyone chows down their food, except Lexy, who eats like an old lady in her own time. Either Jim or I have to stand guard over her, because after the others eat, they begin to circle the area where Lexy eats, like sharks, like Indians around the wagon trains, or like the “axis of evil” arming to threaten the peace of the world. Lexy pays no attention. She picks up her food, chews like an old lady, leers at them (even smiles), and begins the process again. She is never in any hurry. This process plays out twice a day, every day.

Feeding time at the zoo adds humor to our day. But I do like knowing my dogs are as healthy as they can be through our attention to nutritional details and that their tummies are happy. Even with the “Axis of Evil” lurking nearby.

Poop Entrepreneurs

While I was picking up the dog poop in the yard today (a job I loathe), I got to wondering about those companies that come to your home to clean up after the dog. Who are these people? Who was the first to establish such a business? What provoked them to even consider it? Is it really that lucrative? I headed to Google to find the answers. (Only Google would have 2,040,000 results regarding dog poop).

Our society's obsession for our pets has created a very profitable sector in pet services. When you combine this with our aversion to what our furry friends leave behind, and you have a great business opportunity in pet waste disposal. Who knew?

The statistics on this sector are staggering. Over the last decade, total U.S. pet industry expenditures have nearly doubled, from $21 billion in 1996 to $38.5 billion in 2006. According to a 2007-2008 study, “63% of American homes have pets which translates into more than 71 million households!” Of these, nearly 45 million households have dogs. Truly the numbers are staggering! (We are contributing very well to the numbers)

With today's busy lifestyles, many people don't want to spend time scooping and disposing of their dogs' poop. I mean really... those ten extra minutes can be better spent elsewhere! We all want clean and healthy yards and we certainly don’t want an unsightly yard full of doggy poop. (What would the neighbors say?) So, as a result, dog waste removal is growing as a common and viable business service. And I mean viable!

The names of the various businesses are quite amusing, as well as thought provoking. The list is certainly not complete, but here are few examples:

Pet Butler...DoodyCalls...Dog Gone Poop...Pooper Scoopers...Miss Poop...K9 Pollution Solutions...Whoopsy Daisy...Lawn Doodles...The Poo Man...Scoop D’Poo...Yard Guards...and Scooper Dude whose motto is “"Business Stinks ... but It's Picking Up.”

The owners of some of these companies have made millions of dollars in doing what I do every day for about ten minutes; although pound for pound, I am sure they are dealing with a whole lot more! That aside, I still find it amazing and had to share.