My Weekly W's

What's top of my mind:

From what I read 414 false 'swatting' calls have happened here in the US since the beginning of the year.  Two of our areas high schools have had this happen and it is so frightening.  The stress on the parents, the students, the staff and law enforcement is huge. Apparently, people are using AI to generate these calls, so it is close to impossible to find out who originated them. I just can't wrap my head around this and why anyone would do such a thing. 

Where I've been:

Much of the same.  Work, home, Saturday breakfast and a bit of food shopping. I did go to a movie theater for the first time since Covid and saw God, it's me Margaret which was a really good movie.

Where I'm going:

Probably more of the same with the addition of a dentist visit on Friday.

What I'm watching:

We watched the first two episodes of Chao House on Food Network.  It's a cooking competition in Italy and the scenery is gorgeous.  The kitchen is too.  I'm a slow cook so seeing people put together amazing meals in less than 45 minutes is mind blowing.

What I'm reading:

I finished Rebel Homemaker by Drew Barrymore and I did enjoy it.  There are a couple of recipes I want to try.  Now to finish The Paris Wife this week.  I need to step up my reading because the list of books I want to read is LONG.

What I'm listening to:

My inner voice is telling me to get my project list done.  We're already heading into the 5th month of the year.  Where did the first four months go?

What I'm eating:

Pasta, salad and garlic bread

Chili and crackers

BIG salad

Lamb burgers and fries

Pizza-I used the remaining ground lamb, sauteed green peppers, red onion and portobello mushrooms with Greek oregano, red pepper flakes and motz and it was delicious.  

Coho salmon, rice and asparagus

Tonight, I'm making wings for the big guy, steak for me, baked potatoes and coleslaw with Texas toast. 

I made a Cinnamon, Coffee bundt cake last week.  It was good, smelled delicious but it wasn't a favorite for either of us so I won't be making it again.  Not sure what I'll bake today.  I have a few bananas that need used to probably banana bread. 

Who needs a good slap:

The 'mom influencer' that falsely accused a couple of trying to kidnap her children.  It appears she did it for story content and clicks.  That is crazy to me and I really hope she gets the help she needs.

What's making me smile:

We hit the 18th anniversary of moving here to Southern Illinois this past week.  Neither of us had ever lived in small town before and it was a bit of culture shock in the beginning.  But we've made a few friends, the big guy has built a successful business, we have access to local farmers for eggs, meat, fruit and vegetables which has been a huge benefit and many other positives so all and all, moving here has been great. 

I hope you all have a relaxing Sunday and a wonderful week.

Things That Make Me Smile

I think what makes me smile the most about this picture is that less than two feet away is his cat tree in front of the other half of this window.  I guess that would be too easy.  His little paws on the baseboard just crack me up.  Have a wonderful Saturday!!

My Weekly W's

What's top of my mind: 

Another item off my project list.  I started this last summer and I have finally completed my recipe binder that includes all of my favorite recipes, hand -written recipes from family and friends and a few other things, all organized and labeled.  I picked a really pretty Tiffany blue binder and I'm happy everything is in one place. Now on to the 'life' binder to get all of our personal information updated. 

Where I've been:

I took Friday off from work, so the big guy and I went to Cracker Barrel for breakfast.  Then we stopped at Menards and Kroger to pick u a few things we needed.  Other than that, I've been at work and home only and I'm still feeling OK with that.

Where I'm going:

No appointments or plans as of write now other than working Monday through Friday.  

What I'm watching:

I watched a Netflix series, How to Get Rich.  It was nice to know we are doing all that he recommended but it was shocking to see how many people are in deep debt. Some are hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt and that didn't always include a mortgage.  One couple made $25,000.00 a month and often spent $27,000.00.  I guess I just don't understand the impulse some have to keep accumulating 'stuff'.  One thing I really liked about the series was the fact that the first thing they wanted everyone to think about was 'what is YOUR rich life'.  I think that made the show for me because we all put a different priority on different things.

What I'm reading:

Still reading the two books I started last week.

What I'm listening to:

Turned on the 70's and 80's channel while I worked around the house a couple of evenings.  How did I forget how much I LOVED Elton John?  I also was reminded that I have a very eclectic taste in music. I enjoy everything from classical to old country to rock and roll and a lot of things in between.  Motown music, can't leave that out.

What I'm eating:

Asian inspired chicken and udon soup

Beef chili

BIG salad

Fried chicken, goat cheese mashed poatoes, salad

Naan 'pizza"  This was delicious

Meat loaf, baked potato and asparagus

Tonight, the big guy requested chicken and waffles, so the waffle batter is in the fridge now.

Last week I made a loaf of banana bread to snack on and today I'm going to make a Bundt cake.  Not sure which one yet.

Who needs a good slap:  

The last couple of weeks I've slid back into the old habit of eating lunch at my desk going through emails or scrolling my phone instead of sitting at the conference table, reading a book and really enjoying 30 minutes away from work.  I give myself two slaps for that and I vow to start back to unplug at lunch tomorrow.

What I am planning:

Next Saturday a few friends and I are going to see Are You There God, It's Me Margaret.  I of course heard of the book but I never read it.  The movie looks good so I want to check it out.

What is making me smile:

The simple joys of cooking good meals, playing board games or cards with the big guy, movies, books and just time to relax.  That really all makes me smile.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy week ahead!  Enjoy your Sunday.

Cauliflower Shawarma

I absolutely love the cookbook Israeli Soul by Michael Solomonov and Steven Cook.  It is filled with gorgeous photos and information on the area making it part travel guide, but also filled with amazing recipes for some of my favorite dishes, breads and spice blends.

I tried the Cauliflower Shawarma and it is a deeply satisfying meatless meal that even the big guy enjoyed.

Brine for the cauliflower:

2 quarts water

2 cups kosher salt

2 tablespoons of Shawarma spice mix (recipe below)

1 head of cauliflower

Shawarma spice mix for vegetables:

1/4 cup turmeric

1/4 cup cumin

1/4 cup cinnamon 

1 tablespoon of allspice

1 tablespoon of black pepper

Mix well.  Makes about 1 cup of spice blend.

Mix together the water, salt and 1 tablespoon of the Shawarma spice in a large pot.  Warm over medium heat, whisking often, until the salt is fully dissolved.  Let the mixture cool completely.  Brine the cauliflower in the spiced water for two hours at room temperature.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.  Add 2 tablespoons of a neutral oil to the remaining spice blend and stir well to form a paste.  Remove cauliflower from the brine and pat dry then rub most of the spice paste over it, saving a spoonful for searing if you like.  Transfer the cauliflower to sheet pan and roast for 45 minutes or until browned and tender.

Remove the cauliflower from the oven, let it cool a little, then carve and serve.  Or cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, transfer to a large bowl, add the remaining spice paste and toss well.  Sear the florets in a very hot cast-iron pan for 3 to 4 minutes until nicely charred.

I actually did this on the charcoal grill.  I got the grill up to 450 degrees and placed the sheet pan on it and it took about 40 minutes this way.  Then I finished up in a cast-iron pan also on the grill.  

We ate this with Basmati rice and mountain bread.  The cauliflower is filled with warm spices and is tender with some of the char that gives it extra flavor.  I had a bit left over and heated it up in the Ninja on the reheat setting and it was just as good the second day.

It seems like every time I try a new to me recipe I get so involved that I forget to take a picture.  This is the picture from the book.

My Weekly W's

What's top of my mind: Honestly, right now, there isn't much on my mind.  Sundays are usually my day of semi rest and today I'm operating on chill mode.  I'm going to do some baking, food prep and cooking which is relaxing to me. It's also mani, pedi day.  Other than that, I'm just going to go with the flow and do what feels right at the time.

Where I've been: Thursday the big guy called me at work and asked if I wanted to meet him for lunch which is something he rarely does so I happily said YES and I'm glad I did.  That simple gesture and hour together was very comforting. The food was good too.  Saturday, I did a bit of food shopping and then hung out at home. Other than that, it was work and home.  I'm finding that the more time I have at home, the happier I am.

Where I'm going: Tuesday I have my six-month cleaning at the dentist. Saturday, we plan to make a trip to Lowes for a few things. That leaves the rest of the week free for whatever pops up.

What I'm watching: Nothing much.

What I'm reading: 

I loved Drew Barrymore in ET and I've seen a few other movies with her that I thought were cute but I really wouldn't consider myself a huge fan.  I picked this book up at the library having heard nothing much about it and I'm enjoying it.  She started the book in Spring of 2020 while the 'world was shut down'.

"Drew found her way in the kitchen, learned to cook, planted a garden, and raised her first chickens.  And, of course, how she learned to slow down, turn to nature as a teacher, always remembering to be humble and resent while celebrating the joys of her family and friends around the table, both during special occasions as well as amidst the beautiful chaos of everyday life."

I started this book as well.  Even though I've only read a couple of chapters, I think this will be a good read.

"Colorful details of the expat life in Jazz Age Paris, combined with the evocative story of the Hemmingways' romance, result in a compelling story that will undoubtedly establish McLain as a writer of substance.  Highly recommended for all readers of popular fiction."

What I'm listening to: Still keeping it quiet as much as possible.

What I'm eating:

Cauliflower shawarma, rice and naan

BIG salad x 2

Lunch was Cod fish and "chips' with a salad for the big guy and a Philly cheesesteak for me so we both had cereal for dinner.  

Lamb kabobs, Moroccan potatoes

Loaded baked potatoes. And I do mean loaded.  

Tonight, I'm roasting a chicken and I'm thinking pesto, parm. pasta  and asparagus.  

Who needs a good slap: I stayed away from the news this week and kept to my small circle so I have no slaps to hand out.

What I'm planning:  I'm thinking of building a spiral herb garden over the next couple of weeks.  I'm sure the big guy will grumble about one more thing to mow around but I think I can get him on board.  

What's making me smile: A couple that we are friends with had their kitchen redone.  They are originally from the Phillipines and enjoy a lot of international travel.  They both love to cook and recreate dishes they have had from around the world.  Look at the spice rack they had made!!  Is that not a thing of beauty?  I thought I had a huge collection of spices, but this makes mine look small.  I just can't help but smile at all of those gorgeous jars of spices.

That's all I have for today.  I do have a couple of new to me recipes that I've made over the last week or two and I promise to post them this week.  The cauliflower shawarma was amazing!  

Have a great week and stay safe and remember to make every day special!

 

My Weekly W's

Happy Easter to all that celebrate! 

What's top of my mind:  There is a lot going on at work and a lot of changes that are on my mind.  I am not surprised that they want to change my title and add more responsibilities, but I can't wrap my head around having to apply for it. It is just corporate policy I was told. What happens if I decide not to apply? Then they will say they are restructuring the department and I have to take it. Crazy!  I was just glad I had already decided to take a three-day weekend and relax.  I'll think about it all on Monday. Thursday was our 33rd Anniversary (how did that happen so quickly?) so we celebrated with an amazing dinner at La Fuente Mexican Restaurant.  It isn't a fancy place but their food is so fresh and so flavorful we always enjoy it.  We both left full but happy.  

Where I've been:  Other than work Monday thru Thursday, Friday morning I decided to do a bit of shopping.  I went to Lowes to get a few things for the yard and garden.  When did grass seed go from 25.00 a bag to 45.00?  Sometime over the past year I guess because I bought a bag last year.  

Where I'm going:  I have no appointments or plans so far.  

What I'm watching:  We watched the latest episode of Spring Baking Championship and I had Food Network on a bit while in the kitchen this week. It's more for background noise than actual watching. I have deliberately NOT watched any news other than the weather.

What I'm reading:  

"When Michelle Zauner, the Inie rock musician known as Japanese Breakfast, was in her mid-twenties, working as a waitress and struggling to launch her music career in Philadelphia, she got a call that her mother was ill.  She put her life on hold and flew home to Eugene, Oregon, to be with her mother through the final, excruciating months of her battle with cancer."

I'm halfway through the book and really love her writing and her thought process.  I know I got the recommendation from a blogger but I can't remember who.  If it was you, thank you.  This is a wonderful story.

What I'm listening to:  Birds chirping in the back yard by the feeders.  Spring and true spring weather is in full swing here.

What I'm eating:

Beef tips, mashed potatoes and salad

BIG salad 

Pasta and salad

Chicken with pinto beans and rice

Dinner out for Anniversary

Fried chicken sandwich and oven fries

Today we're having lamb chops, potato salad, deviled eggs and a small side salad

Who needs a good slap: I was washing dishes and looked out the window to see my back neighbor pick up his dog poo and chuck it over his fence into his next-door neighbor's yard.  5 BIG slaps to him!  I always thought he seemed shady.  I'm thankful we have a 6-foot easement between us and I have a 6-foot-high fence.  

What I'm planning:  Nothing at the moment.

What's making me smile:  I had a lot of smiles this week from friends and the big guy and for that I am always thankful.  But I have to say Binx makes me smile every day.  He is so curious, so smart and so energetic it has been a true joy watching him and all his firsts over the year. It's hard to believe he's already a year old.

Stay safe and have a wonderful Sunday!!

In My Kitchen-March 2023

Other than regular meals and a few desserts, March was a relatively quiet month in my kitchen with no holidays or special occasions.  April will be busy so I spent a lot of time reorganizing and cleaning to prepare for the garden season that will be here before we know it.  My seed orders both arrived, and I've been planning out what needs planted where and when.  I'm excited.

My kitchen soap dispenser broke.  It was one that my sister-in-law bought me probably 20 years ago.  I searched and searched for one that I liked and found this one at Target.  I LOVE that it makes the liquid dawn come out as foam.  I think we're using a lot less dish soap now plus it's good looking.

I had a number of apples that needed eaten so I decided pie would be perfect.  Instead of making my normal apple pie recipe, I looked up a recipe in my Joy of Cooking book and tried it.  It turned out delicious.  I actually even remembered to pick up ice cream.  Apple pie ala mode is a wonderful thing.

While picking up the vanilla ice cream for the pie I spotted this waffle cone swirl, and it is delicious.  It is basically a really good version of a deconstructed Nestle Drumstick.  

One of the doctors that I work for brought me back a bag of spicy peanuts from The Nut House in Chicago.  The peanuts were not your typical small American peanuts but the size of an olive and VERY hard. I really wanted to try them but We both decided not to risk breaking a tooth so I honestly can't say how they taste but it was thoughtful of him to think of us.

So that is about the extent of happenings in my kitchen this month.  I'm linking this post to sherrys pickings that hosts the In My Kitchen series.  Be sure to visit her awesome blog and check out the many other links from around the world.