Home is Where the Heart Is

Girls Night w/ My Couginas!

2010-03-20T20:30:00.003-04:00

A Visit From Sarah & Anna

Yesterday, I got a visit from my two cousins who are actually more like sisters to me. We had a GREAT time! I'm so lucky to have such wonderful family. We made pulled chicken and some mixed veggies, and chatted for hours!

trying to set up the timer on my camera to take a "group shot," and I thought this was rather funny.

So great to have been born to friends.

having a great visit! Watching "What Not to Wear" and visiting...eating popcorn and Ben & Jerry's ice cream!!!

we spent a lot of time discussing ideas for Rachael's upcoming bridal shower =)

Thanks for a great time girls!!!

SkyWatch Friday ~ Super Sky

2010-03-18T16:46:00.002-04:00

We might be in Smallville, Toto.

Superman like sky. This was taken with my cell phone driving home this week.

the warm weather has brought with it spooooooky skies.

this just reminded me of something tropical and mysterious. This was my attempt at catching one of the warmest evenings we've experienced since fall at my favorite time of night (when the sky to the west is colorful and bright and to the east it's pitch black....and there is a beautiful mosaic of blues in between.

My second job is at Hollister Co. One perk about this job is the HUGE TVs that display the live feed from Huntington Beach, California. Last night, while working the closing shift. It was 10:08 EST and 7:08 PST when the sun was in the midst of its brilliant color display in the west coast sky. Having finished folding down the store, I watched in awe the amazing sky of fire until it went mostly dark at 10:17 EST and 7:17 PST.

It was AMAZING getting to see a the sunset live from 3,000 miles away.

for more gorgeous photos....

SkyWatch Friday ~ Clearer Skies

2010-03-11T15:56:00.003-05:00

Warmer, Sunnier, Brighter... almost spring?

These flowers aren't actually blooming yet... we saw them at our local greenhouse garden show! But, it was a great reminder of what's to come.beautiful skies!

and after our TONS of snowfall, we finally saw clear skies and temperatures in the 50s.

Took this during a date night with Red. The sky was so pink and red.... and the sailors delighted with WARM weather!!!! The feet and feet of snow has begun to melt!

for more amazing views, visit...

A Day in Spring

2010-03-06T21:31:00.002-05:00

Spring is Here. . . at Adam's greenhouse at least. . . =) Beautiful yellow tulips.

Red & I having a GREAT time at the green house in Adam's Fairacre Farms

I bought some things for planting a few things...and I LOVED these garden gloves because of what they said. Women are beautiful.

it felt like walking from bitter winter with snow, to a mid-spring beautiful fairyland

Farm bottled olive oil we bought after sampling it in the gardens =) I LOVE Adams Fairacre Farm!! Amazing Day!

SkyWatch Friday ~ Snow Emergency

2010-03-04T16:06:00.007-05:00

Because you were wondering what a state of emergency looked like...

beautiful, but dangerous.
Thursday evening, February 25th my town and neighboring areas went into a
state of emergency
due to the massive "snowicane," which I mentioned last skywatch Friday in my post. The storm ended up worse that night (Thursday) after my post when we got dropped with more heavy snow measured in FEET!!!

At least THREE feet
(below is a picture of CARS under a TREE which is hanging by a limb lol from the weight of the snow) Silly people park their cars under trees!

And Tuesday a half day from school, Wednesday off, Thursday off, Friday off, and Monday off FOUR 1/2 consecutive snow days!!! Never in my life...

Below are two action shots driving home from my second job at the mall Thursday night. Got to love that my town goes into a state of emergency, but the mall (the town over, with just as bad conditions) feels the need to stay open?!?

beyond this massive wall of snow is our "main road." The plow left a blockage of snow across the exit of the mall... which made it impossible for me, in my CIVIC, to drive through lol. So I had to go back up the hill and try another exit, finally getting through.

Sadly, I was more concerned with getting good photos to post for SkyWatch than making it through the wall of snow!!! haha!
This is how "unplowed" the roads were. The bottom of my car was RIDING on that center mound of snow. You can see tire tracks where someone paved a little way for me.
Our parking lot TWO days later!! YYEAAH, it was a mess!

for more amazing photos visit...

Cooking w/ Red & Connie ~ Connie's Bannana Bread

2010-02-26T12:47:00.003-05:00

My Special Banana Bread Recipe!
banana bread is very special in my family. My grandfather
has made banana bread for our family gatherings for years, and it is always so good
and comforting. Since growing up, and moving into my own apartment I delight in all foods
that bring me back to my childhood. It took many tries to make this recipe a delicious one
of my own. I hope you enjoy!
INGREDIENTS: ( this makes TWO loaves)
*1 cup smart balance butter
*1/4 cup granulated sugar
*1/2 cup dark brown sugar
*4 egglands best eggs
*2 cups buttermilk
*4 1/2 cups flour
*2 tsps baking powder
*2 1/2 tsps baking soda
*8 mashed bananas
*1/2 tsp nutmeg
*about 1/4 cup cinnamon (or to taste)
*1 tbs almond extract

First: Preheat the oven to... 375 degrees!
*Then the magic begins!
I hardly ever measure properly... Red, always teases me about this. So, many of these measurements are an estimate =)
Oh, and that whole separate bowl for dry and wet ingredients... yyyeaahh too much cleanup, so I just dump it all in one!

STEP ONE: Cream smart balance and both sugars in a bowl
STEP TWO: Add eggs and stir

STEP THREE: Add buttermilk, baking soda, and almond extract...stir

yyyeahhh, at this point it'll look kind of gross, but TRUST ME, it's delicious!!!!

I like to peel all my bananas first before mushing them with my hands... Don't forget you need 8!!!
STEP FOUR: Add mushed bananas and stirSTEP FIVE: add cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and baking powder and stir into the mixture.
STEP SIX: pour into bread pans... you'll need two this is a double recipe...
I like to freeze one to have on hand =)Waiting is the hardest part!!!
STEP SEVEN: Bake for 60-75 minutes (depending on size of pan) The pan you see here takes me 75 minutes to bake.Enjoy!!!

Happy Foodie Friday!! Click here to view more amazing recipes to satisfy any food craving

SkyWatch Friday ~ "Snowicane"

2010-02-25T16:43:00.018-05:00

This Week is a Snow Watch!!!

it snowed all night Tuesday into Wednesday... we got

dismissed from school early, and then a SNOW DAY Wednesday!!!

TONS of SNOW!

we had hardly any snow left on the ground before this storm... now it's piled high!

...roads are slick...

trees are falling... thousands are with out power! Thick & heavy snow!

some action image of the snow

beautiful, but dangerous!

for more amazing pictures around the world visit

SkyWatch Friday ~ Out Like a Lion

2010-02-18T16:21:00.003-05:00

I guess this winter has been in like a lamb out like a lion... isn't that how it goes??

my week started with these spooky, but beautiful sky scenes...

these two spooky wood photos remind me of this book cover Fallen that I read

...and...then...we...got...snow...

ALL other schools in my county had the day off EXCEPT my district...and we didn't even get dismissed early. . . everyone, was upset.

it kept getting worse... as the day wore on

pulling into my complex...lucky to be safe & sound

good thing I found this jacket @ my 2nd job MAJORLY on sale for $15

for more beautiful views around the world visit..

Cooking w/ Red & Connie ~ Valentine's Day Style

2010-02-15T10:14:00.006-05:00

Meatloaf

It's a fairly easy, but extremely tasty recipe.
Our Red and Connie sauce (on the right) is a tasty combo of
*DIJON mustard
*JACK DANIEL's # 7
*Salt & Pepper & Parsley
*EGGS

To begin Valentine's Day... First, Red made me an awesome omelet with this amazing smoked Gruyere cheese we got from the supermarket.
Then, we went to church!
At around 3:30 we began our meatloaf. It's a fairly easy, but extremely tasty recipe.It was SOOOO
* juicy
and
amazing. *
Even reheated!!!! THE RECIPE =)
2 packages meatloaf meat
1/2 cup celery
1 cup onion
3 cloves garlic
2 eggs
mustard
cream
Jack Daniel's No. 7 bbq sauce
salt
pepper
parsley

In a frying pan with 4tbs oil fry celery, onion, garlic until soft and then let stand to cool for a bit
In a bowl mix about 1 cup bbq sauce, 1/4 cup mustard, 1/4 cup cream, eggs, salt, pepper, parsley
Into a large bowl dump meat, add in sauce, and veggies
MIX THOROUGHLY
put mixture into an oven safe pan and cook for 70 minutes at 350 degrees
ENJOY =)

Join me in celebrating Foodie Friday's first anniversary.

SkyWatch Friday ~ Snow Day

2010-02-11T17:11:00.004-05:00

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

the parking lot of my apartment complex in between the two storms!! But, NO SCHOOL !!!! YAY

On my way home (this picture is from my cell phone in my car). . . during the second snow storm, which was nearly as bad as the first... the roads were TERRIBLE!!!

from my window. . . watching it fall!This morning we woke up to a 2 hr delay!!! I sent this picture to my sister in response to the one she sent me from Florida of a palm tree!!!

my drive to work this morning was winter peace.

a little tipsy turvy but I tried to capture the beauty of the end of the storms on my way to work!

for more awesome pics around the world

SkyWatch Friday ~ Birthdays and Snow

2010-02-04T16:11:00.003-05:00

A 2 hr delay this week & Happy Birthday, Dad!!!

some snowy weather led to our first 2 hr delay this season

skies that are gettin' ready for the snow!!!

Happy 55th Birthday, Dad! I've had and continue to have so many dreams for my life, and I attribute that to the way you live/teach/discover. You don't realize how much you've already done and shown us through your own life--how you live it--and the dreams and accomplishments you've had. Thank you for all of that--for your life and showing us how to live our own.

for more awesome skies around the globe visit...

SkyWatch Friday ~ Calm Before the Storm

2010-01-28T16:21:00.004-05:00

bliZZard

we got the lovely surprise this morning... SNOW... blizzard like snow rushing toward the ground. Did school delay? No, of course not. Because in NY it's regents week. Stupid state tests. I almost wrecked my car several times on my way to work this morning

By the time I got home the skies had holes of blue... I took some picture... there were storm clouds in the past and in the future...

Less than the a 1/2 hour later... blizzard like snow again... the calm before the storm

Be Safe.

for more skywatch pictures around the world...

SkyWatch Friday ~ Birth

2010-01-21T19:44:00.007-05:00

The Birth of a Weatherman!

The morning began different from the past several mornings. The sun was visibly rising in the east, whereas for days it had been hidden above overcast skies. The sunrise was beautiful against the early frost on my way to work.
Today, was also a special day. 22 years ago my brother Jason was born, and ironically his birthday falls on a SkyWatch day. You see, he is in his final semester of college studying Atmospheric Science. And, boy, does he know weather!

I am so proud of all that he's accomplished, and his understandings of how the sky works...the earth, the oceans, the atmosphere.

The day closed out with brilliant fires from the sky against soft bright blues. Tonight's forecast calls for sleet, freezing rain, and SNOW! What a change 24 hours can make. . .

Happy 22nd Birthday, Jay!

for more views around the world

SkyWatch Friday ~ Subzero

2010-01-14T17:06:00.006-05:00

Freezing Temperatures, Subzero Weather, Wispy Skies

beautiful evening skies taken with my cell phone

"There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing"
~Alfred Wainwright

happy skywatch, for more photos around the world...

Cooking w/ Red & Connie ~ Home for Dinner

2010-01-05T20:41:00.002-05:00

The Best Pasta Dish Ever!

I had to teach an after school program until late into the evening today. Red had this delicious dinner ready for me when I came home!

Pasta
+
Sausage, red pepper, broccoli rabe, cheese

Thanks Red! So delicious!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-20T17:35:00.002-05:00

Home for the Holidays

my sister sent me this card because it looks just like my homepage picture!

Red gave me an early Christmas gift. I love Coca-Cola products and have a ton Coke decor in my kitchen! He painted this and gave it to me this weekend, excited for me to have it!!! I love it; he is a great artist.

*Fall on your knees

Oh, hear the angel's voices

Night divine

The night when Christ was born.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!*

SkyWatch Friday ~ Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

2009-12-10T16:57:00.004-05:00

Oh the Weather Outside is Frightful . . .

...but the fire is so delightful and as long as you love me so let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.... Our first snowfall of the year turned into my first snow day from work for the school year!! Yippie!! That automated message from my school is always wonderful! Everyone drive safely & enjoy!

for more beautiful views

SkyWatch Friday ~ EvE

2009-12-03T13:13:00.001-05:00

A rainbow that Red caputred this morning and sent to my phone! What a great way to start the day!

My Favorite Time of Night!

I love this time of night...and even though there were streetlights that mimiked the moon, big companies, cars, and technology everywhere I still wanted to catch the evening!
Happy SkyWatch =)

for more beautiful sky photos!
xoxo

Made Whole

2009-11-30T16:09:00.005-05:00

"Take these broken wings
And learn to fly again
Learn to live free"

Over the weekend mom's garden fairy fell off of the table on the back porch because of strong winds. She broke into several pieces.

With a special glue, patience and love we put her back together piece-by-piece, almost as good as new!

So she can fly through the gardens again!

Cooking w/ Red & Connie ~ Sausage Breakfast, stuffing & pear bread

2009-11-24T16:05:00.004-05:00

Things to do w/ Sausage and Pears

As part of our Thanksgiving week we made one of my favorite dishes ~ stuffing!! We went to Adams (a local farmers market) and bought some homemade stuffing with their "special ingredients." We made some sausage for breakfast with waffles and then used the rest for our stuffing!
All we did was food process carrots, celery, and an onion. We cooked the sausage in a skillet and then added the veggies! Then, we stirred the veggies, sausage mix in a bowl with a bag of seasoned breadcrumbs and 2 cups chicken stock. Put it in a casserole dish and baked at 375 degrees for 20 minutes! ALL DONE =) Enjoy
We then made some pear bread!!! Followed the same recipe as my Connie's banana bread but added pears that we put in the blender instead of bananas!!! Great recipe. You need to add a little more baking powder to compensate for the liquid concentration of the pear bread! Enjoy!
xoxo Red & Connie

SkyWatch Friday ~ Close Coasts

2009-11-19T16:03:00.002-05:00

Blue Skies, Suns & Moons, and Coasts a far!!! Busy Skywatch
Thank goodness for technology!unfortunately these are all taken with my cell phone!!! But, oh how I love how I can catch awesome skywatch pictures when I don't have my camera on me!!! How great technology is for us

I thought this was really beautiful... the sun looks like a giant white fireball!

another fireball shot, but that tiny white circle is interesting to me at the top middle. Is that the moon?

Since I was taking cell pictures for this skywatch, and I was happy over technology. I figured I'd add this one... I was at my 2nd job at the mall. I teach and then go to Hollister to work a couple nights a week. I was working on Tuesday. As it is a store dedicated to California they have a live feed from Huntington beach. The sunset there was beautiful, and I snapped a quick pic with my cell wishing I was on the other coast =)
Happy SkyWatch. Click below for more great views around the world.

SkyWatch Friday ~ Snowy Mists

2009-11-12T16:54:00.003-05:00

Shooting the Sun!
this is the beautiful sky on Saturday November 7th, Red's birthday.
I couldn't resist some pictures. It looked snowy, and misty, and breath taking.

The fuel trail of the plane looks like it's shooting the misty sun.

Such beauty in the afternoon sky.

"If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you've made me smile, the entire evening sky would be in the palm of my hand."

Happy SkyWatch Friday!
for more views around the world =)

SkyWatch Friday ~ California Dreamin'

2009-11-05T16:13:00.006-05:00

...on such a winter's day...

on these chilly late autumn days, I'm reminiscent of the vacation Red and I took this summer to the golden state of warmth and beauty.

"all the leaves are blown
and the sky is gray
I've been for a walk
on a winter's day

I'd be safe and warm
if I was in LA
California Dreamin'
on such a winter's day."

more beautiful SkyWatch views

The Love of Vampires

2009-10-30T23:10:00.004-04:00

"About three things I was absolutely positive:
First, Edward was a vampire.
Second, there was a part of him--and I didn't know how dominant that part might be--that thirsted for my blood.
And third, I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him."
~Twilight

A year ago tomorrow I received my much anticipated package from amazon.com. The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. I had stumbled across Twilight flare on facebook, and thought to myself what could all this hype be over?

I looked up Twilight, discovered it was a novel, and read the four or five pages they allot you to preview on amazon. I was INSTANTLY hooked. I ordered the whole series, and as irony would have it my book about vampires arrived Halloween morning.

The next three weeks of my life were consumed by these books. When I wasn't reading (and I was glued to the pages in every free minute...including red lights and walking from my car to work) I was thinking about the characters and the story. It was ALL CONSUMING, completely and totally.

As Halloween arrives tomorrow, the anniversary of my beginning of a great love of this story, I am reflective about how powerful books can be in our lives. Someone once said that reading was like living many different lives. So true.

Keep an eye out for sparkling vampires tomorrow =)

SkyWatch Friday ~ 'Tis the Night

2009-10-29T15:54:00.005-04:00

Howl at the Moon" 'Tis the night--the night

Of the grave's delight

And the warlocks are at their play;

Ye think that without

The wild winds shout,

But no, it is they--it is they." ~Arthur Coxe

Have a safe and happy Halloween weekend

The Guardians of Our Soul

2009-10-27T20:39:00.004-04:00

no matter how little money and how few possessions you own having a dog makes you R I C H.How sweet our little friends are
Who stir the corners of our hearts
who remember our souls
When in busyness we forget

How loyal our companions are
Cuddled up on a cold night
Comforting when we're sad
Excited by our happiness

How beautiful a dog's soul is
Innocent, loving, true
God had a special plan
for man's best friend.

Always & forever my Mr. Darcy and Chino Sanchez

OoOoO SkyWatch Perfect

2009-10-22T16:28:00.003-04:00

Stopping By the Road on a Partly-Cloudy Day

I saw this on the road and took some pictures with my cell phone =)
I'm thankful for my cell phone that takes pictures so I can capture beautiful SkyWatch photos!

SkyWatch Friday ~ Autumnal Snow

2009-10-15T16:20:00.003-04:00

Tonight's Forecast: SNOW!!!!

you can sort of see the rainy/snow mix coming down through the red tree.

I can't believe we're getting snow already!!!!

Weather.gov the only site my brother the Atomspheric Science major will use states:

Tonight: Rain before 11pm, then rain and snow. Low around 35. Northeast wind between 8 and 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
YIKES!!!!! time for hat & mittens

view more from around the world

XOXO,

My Dad, the Carpenter

2009-10-10T21:56:00.016-04:00

Building a Family of Faith

As I open my mailbox after a long day of work and see a personalized letter with my dad's handwriting I smile. I read on one side my dad's note to me, and on the other a scripture... often I am moved.

Today, I was putting the card I received into the box where I store all of the letters dad has written me. I got a pull from inside somewhere to take a picture of my box and write a blog about these letters. So, I took some photos. They were great, but not enough. I decided I wanted to count the letters to see how many have been written (204) so far. As I was counting I got to the bottom of the small top box and found the very first letter. I flipped over the envelope curious of the date. It was
postmarked: October 10, 2008.
Exactly one year ago, today. And I thought:
God is Good.

Happy one year of letters, Dad! I love you
I thank you and mom, always, for the foundation.

SkyWatch Friday ~ Perfect Day

2009-10-08T16:33:00.004-04:00

A Day in New York City

i love how the sun beams make a cross!

view more gorgeous sky photos from around the world

Cooking w/ Red & Connie ~ PIE

2009-10-06T23:39:00.003-04:00

*Pear Pie*

Pear pie and apple pie are made in exactly the same way, just a different fruit. It is one of the most delicious pies I've ever tasted, and thoroughly enjoy making! Last time I went to the grocery store I noticed this new pear-apple fruit, a hybrid of the two, we will try the recipe with that next time =)
Happy Baking xoxo,

October 5, 1985 ~ Unto Me A Sister Was Born

2009-10-03T17:56:00.007-04:00

Happy Birthday Rachael Marie

...How truly blessed I am to have been born to friends. 24 years ago, Monday, my sister was born. I was too young to remember the day, how I felt, or really much about what went on. But, I know in the depths of my heart that I must have known that day would change my life, that it would be a special day forever. On a crisp night in October a little girl was born, and so was a sister. This little girl, moments later, all at once, made me a sister, become my best friend, my playmate, the keeper of my secrets and our hearts.
I love you, Rachie!!! Happy Birthday!!! I hope your day is beautiful.
xoxo,

SkyWatch Friday ~ Promise.

2009-10-01T15:53:00.004-04:00

A Promise to Remember Me.

as I looked at one side of the sky and saw the rosy pink color of sunset I decided to run upstairs and grab my camera. I couldn't miss this SkyWatch opportunity.

...Then on the other side of the sky, I saw it... a rainbow... God's promise... and I smiled!

these photos weren't the BEST I've ever taken, but a beautiful moment this week captured in time.

view more beautiful sky photos from around the world at...

Happy SkyWatch xoxo,

SkyWatch Friday ~ Peace.

2009-09-24T19:51:00.003-04:00

A Walk Through the Clouds

I found this to be really tranquil and nice juxtapose the clouds in the west that were dark and stormy!

I saw these on a walk with the dogs in my apartment complex! Nice to see God's paintbrush in the sky!!! =)
view sky photos from around the worldHappy SkyWatch Friday =)
xoxo

Cooking w/ Red & Connie ~ TACOS!!!

2009-09-19T19:51:00.005-04:00

TACO NIGHT!

One of my favorite things to eat are tacos!! I absolutely love Mexican food. When Red and I went to California we had the best Mexican food EVER! He cooked this meal for me one work night!

You can see all of the ingredients here!!!

DELICIOUS!

Me gusta la comida de Mexico!!
Enjoy, Love, Red & Connie

Autumn is Close

2009-09-17T20:07:00.004-04:00

Just around the corner. . .

With the start of school also brought chilly weather and changing leaves. This was taken on Labor Day of this year. My last day of summer before teaching!!!
The lake is always a great place to spend a nice day, which actually was pleasant despite all of the clouds here!

Enjoy photos from around the world at SkyWatch Friday
xoxo,

"A" is for Amanda!!!

2009-09-10T16:17:00.005-04:00

On my birthday this year, July 2, there were really cool storm clouds in the sky! I wasn't skywatching officially yet, so I wanted to share them today.

Can you see the "A" in the sky in the picture below??? Just for me on my brithday =)

Happy SkyWatch Friday!!!

view more awesome photos from around the world!

xoxo,

School Is Open for Business!!!

2009-09-07T23:48:00.007-04:00

Goodbye Summer.
Hello Autumn.

Red & Connie's day at the local lake! We saw some leaves changing over, some beautiful skies, and many people enjoying their last day of summer vacation. We continued the tradition of ice cream after a lake hike! =)

If you look at the center of the picture you can see the one tree that is beginning the season of autumn. Best wishes for a great school year, as I start it out the night before up until 12:00 a.m. At least no students tomorrow!

Scrub* Mop* Clean* Repeat

2009-09-05T10:43:00.011-04:00

My mop doesn't have to sing "Baby Come Back," it is way better than my swiffer-wet-jet that lives in the closet.

In small circles, as women, we discuss our houses and how clean they are. Some people I know have told me that their house is so clean that you could eat off of the floor. What?!? All I can think of is someone spooning spaghetti onto the floor, and literally eating off of it. What?!? My floors have NEVER been THAT clean!!! In an effort to get them "eat-off-of" worthy I did a little fall cleaning and scrubbed the daylights out of 'em before mopping! My floors haven't looked this great since I moved in! Nothing beats an old fashioned mop!!!

After mopping I reorganized my food pantry! Only to discover some food items that were expired over a year ago! YIKES! When I was finished I realized how little food I had, and had to grocery shop =) I felt very productive!

When cleaning was finished it was time to play with the boys: Mr. Darcy & Chino Sanchez. We play a peeking around the corner game! They love it!

All the best, with this beautiful fall weather! xoxo

SkyWatch Friday ~ Volcanic Clouds

2009-09-03T10:01:00.006-04:00

Illusion Clouds near Santa Maria, California

the cloud resting on the mountain reminds me of smoke coming off of a volcano.

Though I've never seen a volcano in real life; I can only imagine.

Happy SkyWatch =)

View more skywatching from around the world

From the Kitchen of. . .

2009-08-31T10:36:00.004-04:00

Red & Connie

some classic recipes from my kitchen I wrote out for my friend, Diana who had her bridal

shower this past weekend.

"In France, cooking is a serious art form and a national sport."

~Julia Child

Food feeds your body, cooking feeds your soul--

it's a little piece of yourself in every bite that you make for the people you love.

It was a pleasure to share my favorites with my friend

so that she can bake for her new hubby!

SkyWatch Friday ~ Foggy San Francisco

2009-08-28T09:34:00.006-04:00

Heavenly Rays in California.

I couldn't believe how the sky opened up enough to let out light on the city. It was breathtaking.

cold & foggy. There's a Mark Twain quote that reads:

"The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco."

SO TRUE!

*60 miles SE of San Francisco it was 120 degrees! As we entered San Francisco the temperature dropped to 56!!!

Of course, the hallmark of this beautiful city. You can't see the top of the bridge because the clouds are so low and dense.

Enjoy views from around the world! ~Amanda~

Connie's Banana Bread

2009-08-25T14:16:00.005-04:00

Cooking with Red & Connie ~ Banana Bread

Every time someone visits my grandfather or he comes for a visit he bakes banana bread. It is always so delicious!!! A few months ago my friend Cassandra, with whom I am so lucky to work, brought me samples of banana bread she made. Recently I've begun tweaking my own recipe.

I make a double recipe... you start out creaming 1 cup *smart balance and 1 cup sugar

Then, you add four eggs (egglands best for lower cholesterol)

stir together.

Add 2 cups buttermilk and 3 tsps baking soda & stir

Add 2-3 tsps almond extract & stir

Add 4 1/2 cups flour, 2 tsps baking powder about 1 tsp nutmeg and about 4 tsps cinnamon

STIR! =)

Add 8 bananas (mushed)!!!!!

(lots of peals leftover)

STIR =)

Pour into two bread pans and bake in the oven for 60-70 minutes at 375 degrees

ENJOY!

SkyWatch Friday ~ California Dreaming

2009-08-21T10:06:00.006-04:00

California Dreamin' on Hermosa Beach

"When I admire the wonder of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in worship of the Creator."
~Mahatma Gandhi

Hermosa Beach is one of the most quaint and beautiful places in the world... small town America meets the beach.

"What is life? It is the flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of a buffalo in the wintertime. it is the little shadow which runs across the grass and loses itself in the sunset." ~Crawfoot

Enjoy views from around the world!
~Amanda~

Treats of Being a Woman!

2009-08-14T10:53:00.004-04:00

sister is a beautiful word.

Last weekend my sister, Rachael and cousin, Sarah came to visit. We had such a wonderful time catching up, and having "girl time" with each other. I love how close we all are. One of the days they were here, Rachael and I went to get pedicures. This is a fantastic experience that I only discovered this year, when my friend Cassandra had me get one at the end of the school year. Since then, I have LOVED pedicures. I adore the way they treat my nails before putting polish on them, and the callous scrub is amazing for my feet...especially because mine are so bad. Something I like to blame on spending summers barefoot.

Pedicures make me feel rich, cozy, and posh...so, I guess almost like the royal treatment of a princess.

We got nearly matching polish colors, and treated ourselves to pampering of the feet. It was special getting to do some woman things with my sister.

Connie's Crabapple Jam

2009-08-06T11:04:00.005-04:00

Cooking with Red & Connie

Connie's Crabapple Jam

First, you must find beautifully ripe crabapples. For me, it was easy! They are right on the road of my apartment complex!

Pick only the ripe ones. I picked about four cups, but the more the merrier!

make sure you wash them before any of the steps that follow!

Remove stems and blossoms. Cut each crabapple in fourths and take the seeds out. Kind of what you would do if you were going to eat an apple!

Put crabapple fourths in a sauce pan. Add four cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes. The crabapples should soften and change color

This is what they look like when they are about ready to strain. You are supposed to use cheesecloth to prevent any pieces of the crabapple from getting into your jam. However, when I was at the grocery store they didn't have cheesecloth, so I just used a regular strainer. It worked fine!

You should have 4 cups of juice, discard the pulp, and pour the juice back in the pan. Bring to a boil, slowly mix in one package of sure-jell and two-four cups of sugar (depending on how sweet you'd like it) Continue cooking at a low boil for about four minutes. Remove from heat.

Pour into Jelly jars! Let sit out until room temperature! =) Enjoy

Love, Red & Connie

Marking the Brownie

2009-08-06T10:49:00.004-04:00

I recently read this book called "Blue Moon" part of Alyson Noel's Immortals series. Toward the end of the book she had the protagonist understand the feeling of home, in the way I try to portray through my blog. I felt the need to share. Ever, the main character, lost her whole family in a car accident. Her little sister, Riley kept appearing to her throughout the first story in the series, as Ever was able to see her spirit. Riley crossed over, and since then Ever has been unable to see her, though Riley promised she'd give her a sign that she was still there. This part in "Blue Moon" brought tears to my eyes.

"I reach toward the stack of brownies. Going for the smallest square, figuring I'll just eat it and run. But when I see the unmistakable letter E carved right in its center--I know.

It's my sign.

The one I've been waiting for all along.

Just when I'd given up hope, Riley pulled through. Marking the smallest brownie on the plate with my initial in the exact same way that she used to do.

And when I look for the largest one and see an R carved onto it, I definitely know it's from her. The secret message, the one she promised, right before she left me for good....

I plucked it off the plate and plopped it into my mouth, closing my eyes as I savor its chewy sweetness, immediately immersed in the feeling of home. That wonderful place I was so lucky to revisit, no matter how short a time--finally realizing it's not relegated to just one single place, it's wherever you make it."

How many senses bring us home again?

The smell of cinnamon bread

The taste of homemade chicken soup

The feeling of the fireplace's warmth

The sound of happy footsteps

The sight of mountains.

Dogs In Danger

2009-07-16T21:22:00.005-04:00

Help Save a Life, Save a Friend.

"Open the eyes of my heart Lord"

"I want to see you

To see you high and lifted up."

"Pour out your power and love."

"Open the eyes of my heart, Lord."

*He did. He opened the eyes of my heart

Which is why I have Chino in my life.

God led him to me, to save him.

He has given me love, companionship, a friend,

A beautiful gift.

Something created, which was treated cruelly

And faced almost certain death.

God led him to me.

Thank you Lord

For opening the eyes of my heart.*

go to dogsindanger.com to save a friend

A Day At the Park

2009-07-12T20:55:00.007-04:00

Summer's Day!

It was a beautiful summers day here, hot and breezy with minimal humidity! After the beginning of summer that we had this year, rain, rain and more rain, the sun was very welcome.

Red & I decided to bring our boys (Mr. Darcy, Flip, and Chino Sanchez) to the local park to walk along the trails. I was a little nervous as we passed by the trailhead which had a sign with images of ticks and warnings about lyme disease. However, we proceeded into the woods.

CHINO SANCHEZ

MR. DARCY

FLIP

We were impressed as to how nicely the boys walked together, side-by-side most of the way. They sniffed all of the trees as we passed by, found their way through ferns, and tall grass. They climbed the hills, and roughed the rugged rocks.

They were quite the trio on our journey through the trails at the park.

We pray for the continuation of days like today, and hope against the rain!

Always, Red & Connie

Cooking With Red & Connie

2009-07-10T21:59:00.006-04:00

Mac & Cheese

Martha Stewart's tweaked recipe with Red & Connie <3

It's important to have your kitchen ready! One pan for the pasta, one for the milk mixture, and a skillet =). Red's all set & ready to get started.

To StArT:

*Preheat oven to 375 degrees

*Heat 2 3/4 cups milk over MED heat in one bowl

*In skillet melt 3 tbs butter until bubbly

I always pre grate the cheese so it's all set and ready to add to the dish.

Recipe calls for: *2 1/4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese

*1 cup Gruyere cheese

*Once butter starts bubbling you add 1/4 cup flour to thicken

*Add the milk that had been heating while whisking

*Let thicken

*Once thick add 1/4 tsp nutmeg

*Add 1/4 tsp black pepper

*STIR =)

*Add in the grated cheeses (not all, leave about 1/2 cup total to top the casserole)

*Let sit off the heat while you cook elbow macaroni--I recommend Barilla pasta brand... cook about 4 minutes. Make sure you rinse with cold water in the colander to get the starch out.

*Add the macaroni to the cheese/milk mix

*Fold into the cheese so that all of the macaroni is covered

*Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a casserole dish for baking

*Add some breadcrumbs to the cheese and macaroni and stir this adds some crunch to the inside of the dish

*Then sprinkle bread crumbs on top

*Also, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Gruyere cheese on top of the bread crumbs

*Bake for 30 mins in the oven

*Let cool for 5 minutes before serving

ENJOY!!! =) ~Red & Connie

Happy Birthday!

2009-07-01T21:52:00.003-04:00

As I approach my 26th birthday (in almost exactly two hours) I am reminiscent about the birthdays past. 26 years ago my mother was almost done with a two day long labor, and I said my first hello to this beautiful world... on the 2 of July 1983 at six pounds after I peed, dark brown hair, blue eyes that would soon turn brown, I was born. I have always loved being a summer baby. I enjoyed summer swim parties, the joy of school just getting out, and an expensive birth stone. I am a cancer sign, the sun sign, which my friend Cassandra (one day younger than me) explained today means we cry instantly at the sign of other people crying. So true. I read up on this. The "traditional" cancer traits are: emotional and loving, intuitive and imaginative, shrewd and cautious, protective and sympathetic. Apparently on "the dark side" we're also: changeable and moody, overemotional and touchy, clinging and unable to let go. When my mother reads this I'm sure she'll laugh herself silly, as to the trueness of these traits.

(getting Misty on my thirteenth birthday)

I'm going to share two of my favorite birthday stories. The first happened twenty five years ago, on my first birthday. My mom was grocery shopping with me a week or so before my birthday. We went down an aisle that had toys and I wouldn't let go of this stuffed dog that played the song "How Much is That Doggie in the Window." Mom put it in the cart and bought it for me to give to me on my birthday. Low and behold it ended up being my FAVORITE stuffed animal. I still have him sitting with his friends on my bookshelf in my apartment.

(My Sweet Sixteen)

The second story is on my sixteenth birthday. I had a huge party with many of my closest friends, as it was my sweet sixteen! I wanted a tropical themed party, and we went to party warehouse to get sweet umbrellas, cups, flowers, etc. It was going to be awesome! As summer undoubtedly brings with it hot and humid days, the cake my mom and I had worked to put together (sugar drop flower cut-outs and all--you can kind of see it in the above picture), well it began to fall apart. We spent four hours trying to fix it, and finally did. It ended up looking awesome with green frosting, sugar drop flowers, and tropical umbrellas, and it tasted delicious!

(my twentieth birthday)

(birthdays in Connecticut)

Thanks to the many friends and family members who make my birthday special each and every year. I love you all!

Live Long and Prosper!

2009-06-14T20:50:00.004-04:00

Star Trek Enterprise!

Space... the last frontier.

Since I was a little girl I've been in love with with space science fiction. Before I can even remember I was a Star Wars fan; pretending to be Princess Leia, knowing all the trivia, and wearing my beloved R2D2 necklace. Star Trek was also something I naturally enjoyed. My brother and I used to watch the episodes frequently, especially Star Trek Voyager which we watched regularly together.

Billy and I went to see the newest Star Trek Enterprise this weekend and were completely blown away by the awesomeness of the film. Not only was the acting incredible, but the special effects were perfect and the casting was phenomenal. There's even an appearance by the old Spock from teh original television series!

The cast looks remarkably close to the actual TV characters! Fabulously done. Go and see this if you haven't yet especially while it's still in theaters!

as always... LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!

2009-06-10T21:34:00.004-04:00

School's Out For Summer!!!

...well...almost.

as the school year wraps up I find myself reflective of the past forty weeks. I teach in a city school district that has A LOT of problems. This year though was the best year I've had in my three years of teaching. As I enter my fourth year this coming September I am more inspired than I've ever been.

...my classroom... with my NFL poster behind my desk to record Green Bay's horrendous season! :( Better luck this next season to start off the next school year!

I've been awaiting my school supplies that I ordered for next year. Many of the teachers in my building have gotten there's and they are slowly coming in. Every morning when the custodians wheel the boxes down the hall I get so excited, like a kid on Christmas morning. Only a teacher can get all jumpy and anxious over the arrival of sharpened pencils, chalk, a dry-erase board, binder clips, post-it notes, and more!

The desk that I've decorated with all of the things I love. A picture of my me and Billy, a photo of my family, photos of my adorable dogs, some nature scenes from a 1995 calendar that was left behind, A TON of Green Bay Packers fan paraphernalia, some Americana lights that actually light up when plugged in, some drawings from past students, flowers, and care bears (for some reason not in the photo).

I have just finished packing up all the things in these pictures that brought my classroom to life this past year. Each summer we pack our supplies only to unpack them again in the fall. This particular school year flew by, it seems like yesterday I was hanging up my decorations and taking pictures for my mom, the teacher two hours away who constantly inspires creative teaching, so she could see the spirit of my classroom.

Today's Forecast

2009-06-06T15:31:00.005-04:00

(a photo from our trip to Florida 7/2007)

My brother, an Atmospheric Science major who also has a fabulous sense of humor, messaged me today and said "Sure, blame the weatherman. Today's forecast is interesting skies with 100% chance of awesomeness." :) He's so funny!!!

Weather is powerful, seductive, beautiful, emotional. It is powerful in that it can kill hundreds, and drive people miles and miles from their homes. It is seductive in that when purple-white lightening sparkle across the sky and the thunder answers the flash I want to be cuddled up in the arms of the one I love. The weather is emotional; cloudy days bring with them sadness, and sunny days bring out spontaneity and happiness. Everything about the weather is beautiful.

Weatherman have a job that leaves them incorrect much of the time, and blame on their shoulders. The weather is unpredictable for as hard as people try to do it. My brother explained to me once that no wise weatherman would put down a percent chance of rain any lower than twenty. There's always a twenty percent chance of rain even when you're 99.9% sure of the sun. Even still, studying the weather has got to be one of the most fascinating studies of all, which is perhaps why my father and brother both studied it... and why I almost did and sometimes wish I had.

I'm going to end this blog with a hilarious quote by George Carlin

“Weather forecast for tonight: dark. Continued dark overnight, with widely scattered light by morning.”

The Joys of Apartment Living!

2009-05-31T20:58:00.007-04:00

When Life Throws You Lemons, You Make Lemonade.

This is the most appropriate name I can think of to title this blog. Now, normally I would do two loads of wash at my apartment complex laundry facility (one dark, one light). Then I will take the clothes that would typically need to be hung (i.e. my jeans, nice shirts) and bring them back to my apartment while leaving my panties, sweats, pjs, it's-okay-if-they-shrink-a-little clothes in the facility drier. To preface this it on any given day will gross me out that I'm sharing washing machines and driers with strangers. Today, however, was the icing on the cake. I went to take my clothes out of the drier and the entire facility smelled like someone peed all over the place and my drier smelled too. I had a panic attack, cried at my money and labor being in vain and re-washed my clothes. Only to now have EVERY item I washed hanging on some chair, shower rod, and doorway in my small apartment!

...and this is my living room chair...a pair of jeans, sweat pants, a nightie, and a dish towel

... and this is my other living room chair... a dish towel, two pj pants, and a nightie

...and this is the inside of my bathroom... three pairs of jeans and a pair of capris

...and this is the doorway to my bathroom... 1 sweatshirt, 3 tank tops and 5 shirts... you can see in the background my jeans hanging from the shower rod.

The scripture letter from my dad this weekend was fairly approriate for this circumstance. One of the scriptures he quoted was Jeremiah 31:16 "Thus says the Lord, 'Restrain your voice from weeping, And your eyes from tears; For your work shall be rewarded.'"

When I had to redo my work (laundry) I was crying and in a panic. I didn't think I'd have enough crevasses to dry my wet clothes, now that I'll never again use the drier. Low and behold my labors were rewarded. Not only will my clothes not smell like pee, but the Arm and Hammer clean burst scent... I also had enough places to hang them all.

I can't wait for a washer and drier of my own. Soon.

Discipline then Affection!

2009-05-30T18:53:00.003-04:00

Dog Whispering.

Caesar Milan has taught me a tremendous amount of useful and important skills for raising a dog. Having two beautiful small dogs, Mr. Darcy and Chino Sanchez, myself it was crucial for me to learn some techniques, so that my two love bugs will have the best life possible. My mom, a fantastic dog whisperer, gave me eight VHS tapes full of DVR'd "Dog Whisperer" episodes. I watch them regularly. I have since exuded calm energy and have made both my boys balanced. Now I want to whisper ALL dogs... =)

Billy's parents have this beautiful German Shepherd. They got him (Zeus) from his uncle who at one time bred his shepherds. I learned from Caesar that a dog needs exercise, discipline and then affection. Billy and I have been working with Zeus on this, and he LOVES his walks now. When we jiggle his leash he comes running for the door like a tornado rushing across the plains. We are working hard on getting him to behave during the walk and flank us like he should walk with a pack leader. He comes in from his walk and is ready for more discipline and relaxation. Thank you Caesar!

A Night With Jane.

2009-05-25T17:52:00.013-04:00

...Watching Emma

My favorite of all of Jane Austin's stories is "Pride and Prejudice" followed closely with "Emma." I especially love Gwenyth Paltrow's version of "Emma." The love story between Mr. Knightley and Emma is so beautiful, sweet, and innocent... the embodiment of love. The first time I saw "Emma" was at my thirteenth birthday sleepover. All of my friends fell asleep, and I was the only one left in awe at this beautiful and romantic story. Jane Austin's stories have always had a special place in my heart, enriched my vocabulary, and have taught me valuable lessons about life. I love her works so much that I named my first dog, (a papillon) Mr. Darcy after her lead romantic hero in "Pride and Prejudice."

Below are some of my favorite quotes from "Emma" for you to enjoy!

Emma: "This is tragic."

Mrs. Weston: "Why is it tragic that Harriet should attach herself to a man whom you admire so much?"

Emma: "I have asked myself many times why this should've unsettled me and I came to see that I do not admire Mr. Knightley as I have so long thought... I love him... so dearly...so greatly. Outside of you and father his is the opinion which matters most. I did not know it until poor Harriet said she had the hope of him returning her feelings and then I felt ill that I could lose him. And I knew that no one must marry Mr. Knightley... but me."

Mr. Knightley: I rushed back, anxious for your feelings, keen to be near you. I rode through the rain! And I'd ride through worse than that if I could just hear your voice telling me that I might at least have some chance to win you.

Emma: Mr. Knightley, if I have not spoken it is because I am afraid I will awaken myself from this dream.

Mr. Knightley: Marry me? Marry me my wonderful, darling friend.

A Visit From Home

2009-05-23T20:21:00.006-04:00

A SPECIAL VISIT

“The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us, and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone.” ~George Elliot

One of the most special things is getting a visit at my apartment. I love to entertain my family. Sometimes it feels a little like I'm a kid playing house, but I'm proud of the things I've accomplished.

My mom and my sister, Rachael came to visit for a girl's night last night!!! My two best friends! I can't believe as I sit here to write this that the visit is already over. We had a blast! I made my famous guacamole and we polished it all off with a bag of lime tortilla chips. Then, we ventured off to the grocery store where we bought a gallon of mudslide ice cream and nearly polished that off too!!! We were up until 12:00 a.m. visiting, and when it was time for bed the three of us crammed into my queen bed along with my two dogs for a semi-sweet night sleep.

This morning we woke up really early, and my boyfriend brought over our towns BEST bagels and made his delicious best-you've-ever-eaten eggs! We headed off to the local farm market to get some goodies.

I feel so blessed to be so close to my family. Their visits leave me with my heart full of home.

With much love always, ~Amanda

Choosing Life

2009-05-22T10:07:00.013-04:00

(me as a baby!)

Our first home is in the Lord's house, and in turn after birth God asks for a home in each of us. My dad sends me daily scriptures in the mail. I receive them almost every day, and it's my favorite part of opening the mailbox. Usually it is my only piece of personal mail. Sometimes he writes a quote from the bible on the back of the envelope and I imagine a postal worker reading it, and wondering over it. Stamped on the 19th of May, dad wrote "The Lord knows you and seeks to have a relationship with you. He examines your attitude toward him. Faith is the key to our answer back to God. Allowing Christ to dwell in us and be our guide back to him." This passage sparked my blog today. We lived in God's house and he lives in us during our time on earth, so that he can help us to find our way back home.

Our second home is in our mother's womb. This is the most sacred of all homes we will live in on earth. A mother's womb should be safe, comforting, and the beginning of an understanding that we are loved and cared for. In today's world for many little spirits this is not the case. Activists have waged war on the womb, causing 1/3 of my generation to perish for being unwanted, like a gift someone didn't want to receive and instead of re-gifting it she throws it away. Catholicvote.org has recently been creating these videos entitled Life...Imagine the Potential. They are inspiring, and hopefully will sing with a loud voice. It is our duty to protect the house of the unborn.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIBZ-kJ6XAc

Our first home on earth is in our mother's womb.

My grandmother's mother found herself pregnant with my grandmother at 17 years old in the 30s. At that time it was very unacceptable to be an unwed mother,much more so than even today. I'm sure she was very much afraid of the child inside her. Still, she chose life and gave birth to my grandmother in mid January. My grandmother was then adopted from an orphanage into a loving home. I think about all of the people who wouldn't be here today if that woman so many years ago had aborted her baby. My mother, her siblings, my siblings, myself, my cousins, our future children are all here because ONE woman CHOSE LIFE.

That Doggie in the Window.

2009-05-19T20:54:00.007-04:00

A Story of Love.

When I was almost a year old, the story goes that I asked my mom for this plush dog with a music box inside that sang "How much is that doggie in the window." My first birthday was approaching and mom decided to get this toy for me, and it ended up being my favorite of all the toys I ever received as a child. You see, God must have written a love for dogs in my heart long before I was even born.

At twenty-three I moved to my current location for a teaching job in a city district--away from family and friends for the first time ever. I bought a Papillon pup from a local breeder and named him Mr. Darcy after my favorite romantic male hero. After almost two years with Darcy it was time to give him a companion, aaannndd truth be told I was getting into the dog movement. I was emotionally torn apart by dogs that I'd seen at the SPCA functions my colleagues participated in, and the commercials on TV. Even more startling was the discovery of the dogsindanger.com website, which brought me to hyperventilating tears. What could I do? I wanted to rescue all 4 million that get put to sleep each year, but of course, one person can't save them all. I opted to rescue one. A (what they think) Pekingese, Chihuahua, Jack Russell Terrier mix. It was love at first sight. He was 3 teeny-tiny pounds, and licked me the five hour car ride home from where we rescued him.

When we rescued him he wreaked of God only knows what. He smelled so bad we had to stop at a convenient mart so that I could purchase baby wipes and attempt to clean him a little. It was obvious that he was not living in the best of conditions. It felt so good to be the one to give him his forever home, a place of his own. We named him Chino Sanchez, but mostly we call him Chino or Chez.

When we brought him home Darcy was a little nervous at first and unsure about him. However, soon they were brothers and friends--snuggling in the same bed. The one that Chino would later shred, and mommy would have to replace!

There's nothing like rescuing a dog, no feeling like it in the world. You are saving a life--a precious gift to the world from God. You are making one creature's life easier because you exist, because you care, because you love. Rescuing a dog is the best decision I've ever made, and a gift that I can appreciate each minute of the day...even when he's being naughty.

You see... God knew when he made me that I would love dogs. That I would find this overwhelming passion for helping the helpless creatures. That my dream in life would be to start up my own rescue, a safe haven for the unwanted...the ones with no home... the ones who wag their tail waiting for someone to please pick them. God wrote LOVE DOGS on my heart...forever.

Cooking With Red & Connie

2009-05-17T19:15:00.008-04:00

Salmon ala Juan:

Billy and I first had this delicious dish at my sister and her fiancé's engagement dinner. Juan, her fiancé, made this salmon dinner for us to enjoy. It has since been my favorite seafood dinner to make. Billy and I made it tonight, and it was extra delicious by accident (gotta love cooking accidents that make great additions). We needed to cook it longer on the grill, and it was twice as good as before! I decided to share the recipe!

We used 1lb of Salmon for two people and still had leftovers. So, plan accordingly!

Ingredients:

*1lb Salmon

*2 slices red onion

*3 slices butter cut into cubes

*Garlic salt

*1 tbs Brown sugar

*1 Can/Bottle Pale ale beer

Directions:

*Heat Grill!!!

*Make a pouch with aluminum foil with your salmon inside the foil

*Sprinkle Garlic salt on salmon

*Spread brown sugar on top of salmon over the garlic salt

*Place the cubes of butter on salmon evenly spaced

*Place the rings of onion over butter cubes on top of salmon

*Poor beer in pouch--make sure it doesn't leak

*Cook on grill for 10-15 mins. The longer it cooks the more of the beer you can taste!!

Enjoy! ~Red & Connie's Kitchen

I'm Home.

2009-05-16T19:14:00.007-04:00

In those flashes of moments between sleep and awake when my heart still remembers dreaming, but my mind is trying to rationalize the days events... this is where my memory of the physical place of home exists. My eyelids are not yet open and I can see with perfect clarity the view from my old window in my parents house. The driveway stretching out to the neighborhood road. The blue house across the street, and a mountain beyond that. I hear the birds, some of my favorites, singing me awake. And I am home. Home again in my childhood bed. My spirit feels like its nine year old self, and argues with my mind as I become conscious, reasoning with my spirit--reminding it that I'm twenty-six and in my apartment, and that I cannot actually hear the birds.

The physical place of home for me is of course my parents house. Their house has collected more memories of childhood than stars in the sky. Each room has a story. Adventures with my sister and brother, roller skating in the basement, made up games of dolls, Jason's ken doll phase (he wanted to be included), berry potions created with elements from the back yard, snow days, that winter in October where we cooked meals on the fire place, running around the driveway waiting for the school bus, ice skating on the carpet in the family room (the only place I would ever be able to do an axle), spending four hours on the cake for my sweet sixteen, prom pictures under the crabapple tree, and the list goes on. Whenever I drive home, my spirit sighs at each bend in the road as it realizes that I'm going home. It's funny how a place can do that to you.

Home is not just a physical place. Home is where the heart is. Many times it can be just a feeling. When I'm with the ones I love I feel home. Mostly I think the feeling of home comes from four different emotions: Love, Comfort, Safety, and Nostalgia. No matter where I am with my family, with Billy, with my closest friends, and with my dogs I get a sense of home. As I get older, this sense of home has moved further from the physical location of my house, and more toward the feeling and sensation in my soul.

Nothing has brought more clarity to me of this than animals. There is a stray cat that wanders my apartment complex. I'm not naturally a cat person, my dad is deathly allergic, so I've only ever grown up with dogs. This cat, however, is one of the most beautiful cats I've ever seen. She comes and cries at the bottom of my building for attention, she wants to be pet and scratched. She purrs as though she is getting divine spa treatment, and meows loudly when she sees me coming, a greeting I imagine. Homeless dogs and cats break my heart in a way that few things do. I created a little bed for it with a blanket in an old cardboard box, left a bowl of water and some cat food under the staircase of my building. It comes by to eat and drink although usually sleeps on the top of cars. I have attempted to get this cat to come into my home so that I can adopt it out and find it a forever home. It has caught on to my luring tricks to get it into one of my dog's carriers. It will even follow me all the way up the stairs to the front of my door, but never inside my apartment. I couldn't understand why it wouldn't want to come inside, so I could find it a home. It trusts me, lets me pet it, eats food from my hands, but never follows me inside. Then I realized that I was looking at it the wrong way. This cat has a home, maybe not a physical home, but home is where the heart is--and her heart is with me underneath the staircase of my building.