That Holiday Feeling

 I got this record last year at the used bookstore for a quarter.  Love it!  And the holidays would be amiss without Steve and Eydie!  Enjoy!

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

 This version of It Came Upon a Midnight Clear was the theme for 1974's Christmas Seal campaign.  I think it's a lovely rendition and I really enjoy this arrangement.  Enjoy!

Quote of the day

 

In The Bleak Midwinter

 This is one of those songs that I never knew I liked until I really sat down and listened to it.  For so many years, honestly, the title just put me off so I never paid attention to it.  One day I was listening to it on my headphones and realized how extremely beautiful this piece is.  And, until recently, I never knew that Gustav Holst composed it.  I have always loved his music, so it makes sense to me that I should love this as well.  Enjoy!

Recipe of the Week - Brussels Sprout Salad

 We really enjoy brussels sprouts at our house so I am always looking for new ways to prepare them.  Normally, I just quarter them and saute' them in olive oil with salt and pepper. They're quite delicious this way.  However, I don't want to run any recipe into the ground so I am always on the hunt for something new.  When I was googling brussels sprouts, the search for brussels sprout salads came up so I clicked on it and found this.  We really enjoyed it and I will be making it again!  Enjoy!

Brussels Sprouts Salad

12-24 Brussels Sprouts

1/2 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup crumbled bacon

1/2 cup romano cheese

1.5 Tbsp lemon juice

1/3 cup orange juice

1/2 cup olive oil

1 Tbsp minced garlic

In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, orange juice and garlic.  Slowly add olive oil until it is all completely blended.  Refrigerate until ready to serve salad.  

Shred/finely chop your brussels sprouts.  Add almonds, bacon and cheese.  Toss to mix well.  When ready to serve, toss in the dressing and mix well!

*When choosing your sprouts, go for the larger ones as they will have more green leaves and less core.

In Dulci Jubilo

 One of my favorite classical Christmas pieces!  It's such a beautiful song and I find it very peaceful.  Enjoy!

A Cup of Christmas Tea

 I listen to this poem every year.  I first heard it on the radio in the late 80's/early 90's sometime.  It was on a Christmas program on 1100 WBT AM Radio out of Charlotte.  I have always loved it and it expresses some beautiful feelings about loved ones during the holidays and all year round.  Enjoy!

Silent Night

 

Carol of the Bells

 I wanted to include a handbell piece in my Christmas music this year and what better piece than Carol of the Bells.  It's such a fun song and would be a blast to play!  Enjoy!

The Christmas Song

 This is a lovely rendition of this perennial Christmas favorite written by Mel Torme'.  I heard Carol Burnette's version on one of my Christmas records and just think it's wonderful.  Very simple and showcases her beautiful voice.  Enjoy! 

Where Are You Christmas

 I have been a fan of Faith Hill's for as long as I can remember.  Even though it's hard to classify her music....is it country?  is it pop?....her voice is strong and beautiful.  I find this song to be both beautiful and bittersweet.  Some times the holidays are hard.  I know I have moments of melancholy during the holiday season.  I think we all do.  But I keep going and still enjoy them.  And this song is sometimes how I feel during those times.  It gets me through and I cherish it.  Enjoy!

Caroling, Caroling

 When it comes to Christmas and the music of Nat King Cole, I know that most people are automatically drawn to his rendition of The Christmas Song.  And yes, that is a classic for sure!  However, this is my favorite of his Christmas carols/songs.  It is another one of Alfred Burt's Christmas Cards (See post on Some Children See Him).  And Mom had one of Nat King Cole's Christmas albums when I was growing up that has this on it.  I have always loved it and still do.  Enjoy!

Jingle Bells

 Jingle Bells is a holiday classic.  I really do love Manheim Steamroller's interpretation of this song.  Hope you enjoy!

I'll Be Home For Christmas

 A beautiful song.  It has a very different meaning this year to most of us, but that is fine.  It makes us appreciate our lives more.  Enjoy!

In Our World - Emmet Otter

 It just wouldn't be Christmas without Emmet Otter!  I have this on DVD and it's an interesting watch because it's different than the one I grew up watching.  This one doesn't have Kermit the Frog narrating it and there are lines that I distinctly remember that are not there anymore.  Still, it's a touching story and always a joy to watch!  Enjoy!

Do You Hear What I Hear?

 There are so many wonderful recordings of this song, but I always go back to the original with The Harry Simeone Chorale.  It's such a beautiful rendition and I find it very haunting.  It sticks with me.  Enjoy!

A Christmas Festival by Leroy Anderson

 Even though Leroy Anderson's Sleigh Ride is much more well known, chances are you've heard this piece as well.  We played it every year in high school band.  It's fun and festive.  One of the things I admire about his composing is that his pieces sound very impressive, but are relatively easy to play, making it a win win situation for any band or orchestra.  Enjoy!

Christmas Quote of the Day

 How true this is!  I hope that when all of my loved ones look back on this Christmas, they won't just think about the craziness of the year...and it has been so crazy.  But, they will remember this Christmas as one to cherish.  One in which we all took the time to be thankful for what we have and who we have and to carry the spirit of Christmas in the small things this year.  That is my hope and also my intention.  Be blessed!

Some Children See Him

 This song is also a beautiful piece of music, very poignant.  I have Ms. Carroll on several records singing this and I love her version.  Maybe it's because it is the one that I grew up hearing at home during Christmas, but still it's lovely.  I actually learned, while watching an old holiday episode of the Lawrence Welk Show (can't help it lol)  that the writer of these lyrics, Alfred Burt, was a jazz musician who gave carols as Christmas cards for over a decade.  This is one of his Christmas cards, actually.  He also wrote "This is Christmastime", "Caroling, Caroling" and "The Star Carol".  Sadly, he passed away at age 33.  I can only imagine the wonderful things he would have created if he had lived longer.  Still, it's a beautiful song.  Enjoy!

My Grown Up Christmas List

 Natalie Cole was the first artist I heard sing this song, and hers is still my favorite version.  Another Contemporary Christmas song that I enjoy.  The older I get, the more I understand and appreciate it.  It says what so many of us feel.  Enjoy!

The Candlelight Carol

 I first heard this beautiful carol by John Rutter some twenty plus years ago when I was in college.  I was watching Christmas at St. Olaf and one of the choirs sang this.  I have loved it ever since.  Hope you do too!

Still, Still, Still

 This is one of my all time favorite carols.  It's so peaceful and comforting.  Enjoy!

All Those Christmas Cliches

 This is another perennial favorite of mine.  I have loved Nancy Lamott's singing for years and her Christmas album is no exception.  This is one of the few contemporary songs of the holidays that I really like.  I think it's because it's a reminder of holidays past.  It's just lovely and expresses greatly how I feel about the yuletide season.  Enjoy!

Christmas Quote of the Day

 This one pretty much sums it all up for me :)

 

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

 

I always like to start off my Christmas season music with this wonderful gem.  I remember when I first saw this movie back in the late 80's on cable.  I was completely enthralled with the story and, at the time, I didn't know that's where the song came from.  It's so poignant and meaningful, especially in these times....as most of us are having a "little" Christmas because that's what we need to do.  This song reminds me, specifically of my wonderful UNCG BFA acting family and I wish them all a wonderful holiday season!

Christmas Quote of the day

 My holiday wish for us all!

Recipe of the week - Cheesy Southwest Chicken Pasta

 I came across this crock pot recipe on a Facebook group for recipes that I belong to.  It sounded good, so I figured I would try it out.  And it turned out pretty delicious.  I hope you enjoy it as well!

Cheesy Southwest Chicken Pasta

2 lbs boneless chicken breasts

2 cans Rotel tomatoes

1 can Mexicorn, drained

1 small can of sliced black olives

1 tsp chili powder

1/4 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp oregano

salt and pepper to taste

16 oz sour cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese

Green onion, chopped

16 oz short pasta, drained

Mix tomatoes, corn, olives, chili powder, oregano, cumin and salt and pepper in the bottom of your crock pot.  Layer chicken on top and cook on low for 8 hours.  Cook pasta according to directions and drain.  After chicken is cooked, take 2 forks and shred the chicken in the pot.  Add sour cream, cheese and green onion.  Stir in pasta.  Top with more cheddar and green onion and serve.  Enjoy!

*  You can use any short pasta of your choosing.  The original recipe I read called for shells, but I used farfalle and loved it.

* I did use low fat sour cream and that it not quite as creamy as it should have been, but still good!

*  I could not find mexicorn at my neighborhood grocery store, so I used a can of yellow corn and a can of green chilis and it worked just fine!

My "new to me" candy dish

 This candy dish isn't an antique as it's not even 50 years old, but I was on the hunt for one just like this and so there you go!  This is a glazed ceramic candy dish circa 1972.  The reason I wanted one like this is because I remember one from my childhood.  As many of you know, I am still obsessed with our family home in Wingate, NC where Aunt Sara lived.  I remember, as a child, that she had a candy dish just like this one on her coffee table in her den.  I don't remember whatever happened to that one, but it was always a treat to get to take the lid off and get a piece of candy out.  Of course, in retrospect, that candy had probably been there awhile.  Still, it was candy and as a child that's all that mattered.

So, I began searching online for one.  I didn't know exactly how to go about it because I didn't know the maker, if there was one specifically for this to have been labeled by.  I knew it was ceramic and a drip glaze, so that was helpful.  I finally found one on Ebay that was a beautiful shade of red with the drip glaze.  And, of course, it had a crack in the lid so on to the next one.  One day this one popped up in my searches and I saved it.  I repeatedly went back to it just to look at it.  Another reason I was drawn to this particular one is that one the bottom of the dish, it is signed as a gift to Susan Stack.  There was a Susan Stack that lived at Heritage Greens until she passed.  I don't know if it's the same one, but I like to think so.  Makes it extra special.

Well, since I haven't been smoking, I treat myself to something every month with the money I would have spent on cigarettes.  This was my November purchase for myself. Can't wait to fill it with candy!

We Gather Together - Happy Thanksgiving!

 Happy Thanksgiving!

Quote of the week

 After such a strange year, there is still much to be thankful for!

Song of the week - Let There Be Peace On Earth

 I don't normally subject others to Christmas music outside of the holiday season, at least not intentionally, but this is a song that just speaks to me right now.  It expresses what so many of us feel, hope and aspire to.  Be blessed and enjoy!

Quote of the week

 

Recipe of the week - Basil Lemon Chicken

 This is another Taste of Home recipe I came across in one of my cook books.  We eat a lot of chicken, so it's always nice to try something new.  This was pretty easy stove top cooking.  Enjoy!

Basil Lemon Chicken

1.5 pounds chicken tenderloins

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

2 Tbsp butter

1 Tbsp olive oil

1/2 cup chicken broth

3 Tbsp lemon juice

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

1 Tbsp dried basil

1/4 tsp thyme

Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.  In a large skillet, heat the butter and oil over medium heat.  Brown the chicken on both sides and remove from pan.  Add the broth and lemon juice to the pan, stirring to loosen the brown bits.  Bring to a boil.  Cook 2-3 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half.  Stir in cream, basil and thyme.  Add the chicken and return to a boil.  Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered for 6 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink.  Serve with past or rice or by itself.

Antique of the week - The Chocolate Set

 I began an obsession with chocolate sets when the homeplace in Wingate was divided up.  Aunt Sara had one that sat on a chest in her living room.  It had belonged previously to her sister, Mary Lee.  Sara left it to my cousin Edith, which is how I came to learn of their existence.  Mom let me read Sara's will and when I came across the chocolate set, I asked what it was.  She told me and I became fascinated with the fact that there was a set of dishes made specifically to serve hot chocolate out of.  I never saw Aunt Sara's set because it had gotten packed up and given to Edith early on, but I began a mission to have one.

Later that same year, 1987, I bought a set that was marked as a chocolate set.  In actuality, it's a demitasse set.  Still, I loved it and the dealer gave me an extremely generous price of $15 for it. Considering I was 12 at the time, this was a big deal to me.  It was a green checkerboard pattern and from the 40's.  I loved it.  I still love it and need to get it out of its box sometime and put it on display!

Fast forward about 25 years.  One of the times I had tried to quit smoking, I began the tradition of buying myself something fun with the money I was not spending on cigarettes.  A tradition I'm still carrying on to this day!  And, I found this set on Ebay.  I paid about $80 for it.  It's green with gold leaf.  I absolutely love it and am happy that I could finally mark it off of my antiques bucket list!  I haven't used it for anything other than display, but you never know.  It's getting colder outside and this is the perfect thing for hot chocolate.  That's what it's made for, after all!

Song of the week

 Just wanted to start my day off with some Julie!

Quote of the day

 An important reminder!

Recipe of the week - Mexican Chicken Alfredo

 Finding this recipe was a happy accident.  I was going through a stack of recipes that I had cut out of magazines from years ago and found this.  I remember that there was a recipe on the other side of the page that I had wanted to keep and did not remember this one at all.  It's from Taste of Home magazine.  But, I thought it sounded good and gave it a try.  We both loved it and I've made it several times in the past few months.  Definitely a keeper.  Good comfort food.  It's easy and can be made ahead of time and frozen.  Enjoy!

Mexican Chicken Alfredo

1 16oz package of spiral pasta

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken, cubed

1 medium oonion, chopped

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1 Tbsp oil

2 jars (15oz each) of alfredo sauce

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup medium salsa

1/4 cup 2% milk

1 envelope taco seasoning

Cook pasta to package directions.  As the pasta cooks, in a large skillet, over medium heat, cook the chicken, s&p and onion until chicken is cooked through.  Stir in Alfredo sauce.  Bring to a boil.  Stir in cheese, salsa, milk and taco seasoning.  Drain pasta and toss with chicken mixture.  Pour into a casserole dish.  Cover and bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly.  Serves 6

* You can use any short pasta of your choice.

Song of the Week - The Prayer

 I just needed to start my day with a beautiful piece of music.  That is all.

Quote of the day

 In honor of election day.  This is probably as political as I will get this week.   That is all.

Quote of the day

 

A Prayer of Hope

 Almost every day for the past few months, I have awaken to feelings of dread and hopelessness.  My morning anxiety levels are through the roof.  And I cannot pinpoint anything specific as to the cause, it is just the overall state of the world these days.  I will make it through...daily, weekly and monthly until another year has passed.  But I find comfort in prayer, especially prayers of hope so I share this one I found with you.  Be blessed.  That is all

Thought for the morning

 It is the end of another week that has both been short and long.  I have absolutely no sense of time anymore and even though when I'm in the moment, the days seem long, they are short in reflection.  Ah, well.  Tomorrow will begin another short long week and I will keep going.  I woke up this morning to a lovely rainy day.  I'm probably one of the few that feels that way, but I do love them.  Not only do we need the rain as it's been awhile, but I find it very relaxing.  If only they would happen on days when I didn't have to leave the house lol  I'm not working today, but am supposed to be ringing handbells at FBC.  Originally, we were suppose to be outdoors, socially distanced and masked, ringing on the church steps during service.  Of course, the rain has other ideas.  Now, I'm just biding my time waiting to see what the rain plan is.  We may ring socially distanced in the sanctuary or may have to reschedule.  It all depends on how everyone in the choir feels about it.  I am fine either way because we will be distanced and the sanctuary is pretty large.  Until I find out, I'm just going to have my coffee, listen to some music and enjoy the rain and be thankful that I am here for another day.  Be blessed!

That is all

Song of the week - Feed the Birds

 This is one of those songs that I often wake up to in my head.  It's been in my head all morning today, so I thought I'd share it.  Love this song!  Enjoy!

Quote of the day

 And graciously!

It Is Well With My Soul

 Like many people these days, my soul is not always well.  I wake up in the throngs of anxiety for no reason other than the state of this world we are in.  And I find myself constantly asking God "Why?" about so many things right now.  But this song is one of my go to songs to calm me and help me to find some peace, which is what I'm needing a lot more of these days.  Enjoy!

Recipe of the week - Sausage, mushroom and egg bake

 If you're looking for something delicious and easy for breakfast (or dinner like we had it) this is really good!  It's from Taste of Home.  We love having breakfast for dinner but I wanted to try something other than scrambled eggs....which I love.  This was good and we'll have it again definitely!  Enjoy!

Sausage, Mushroom and Egg Bake

1 lb bulk sausage

2 10.5 cans of cream of mushroom soup

sliced mushrooms

9 large eggs, lightly beaten

3/4 cup 2% milk

1/4 tsp pepper

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In a large skillet, cook sausage and mushrooms over medium heat until sausage no longer pink, breaking into crumbles, drain.  Stir in soup.  In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and pepper; stir in the sausage mixture.

Transfer to a lightly greased 2 qt baking dish.  Sprinkle with cheese.  Bake, uncovered, at 375 for 40-50 minutes or until a knife inserted near center of casserole comes out clean.

Song of the day - Back to Before

 Last night, as I was watching one of my YouTube playlists, this video came on.  I hadn't seen it in a long time, but it's one of my favorite songs from Ragtime.  And Lea Salonga has such an amazing voice, she serves this song very well.  And I love the message that it sends out.  Enjoy!

Quote of the day

 Some Tuesdays, it's very true LOL

A Morning Prayer

 

Recipe of the week - Pasta with Shrimp in Parmesan Cream Sauce

 This recipe came from an old issue of Southern Living.  I was looking for a new shrimp recipe and this turned out to be perfect.  I've made it several times and shared the recipe with friends and everyone has enjoyed it.  It's easy and very filling!

Pasta with Shrimp in Parmesan Cream Sauce

1 lb pasta

1 lb shrimp,uncooked, peeled and deveined

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

4 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1 medium onion, chopped

1 lb sliced mushrooms

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/4 cup butter

2 Tbsp olive oil

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

Cook pasta according to directions.  Drain and set aside.  Saute onions, mushrooms and garlic in butter and olive oil until tender.  Stir in cream and parmesan until well blended.  Sprinkle red pepper on top.  Add shrimp and pasta.  Cook over medium heat 5-7 minutes or until shrimp is cooked through.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Serve immediately.

*I've made this with linguini and with farfelle.  Any pasta you like will work.  Enjoy!

Song of the day - Friends Are Friends Forever

 This song has been playing in my head for the past few weeks for several reasons.  One, my BFA class lost one of our family in a tragic accident.  It threw all of us for a loop.  And even though this is a religious song, the overall theme still fits for us.  Also, I joined the handbell choir at FBC Greensboro.  I started ringing in 3rd grade and rang until I graduated high school.  Being back in handbells has brought back many great memories of our youth program at church. This song was one that was played a lot at different youth functions.  You really couldn't get away from it in the late 80's/early 90's.  But it has a good message and I'm ready to have my friends back in my life in real time.  That is all.

Recipe of the week - Cheese Bread

 This recipe is one I found in one my First Baptist Church of Monroe's cookbooks.  I love church cookbooks and am always on the lookout for new (to me) ones.  Hint - vintage church cookbooks are good Christmas presents :)

Anyway, this one comes from Debby McBride.  I've made it several times and really enjoy it!

Cheese Bread

1 1/2 cups milk

3/4 cup grated sharp cheddar

3 3/4 cups Bisquick

1 egg

Heat oven to 350.  Beat egg and add to milk.  Stir in Bisquick and cheese.  Beat 30 seconds until blended.  Pour into greased 9X5X3 loaf pan.  Bake 1 hour.  Let cool.  Slice.

This is really good just tear off a piece and eat it kind of bread.  It has a biscuit consistency, obviously, so it's great with breakfast.  It also makes a wonderful tomato sandwich.  Enjoy!

Recipe of the Week - Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake

 This is another good recipe I found in one of my used bookstore buys!  I have only made this once, but it is definitely a keeper.  It's good for breakfast or as a dessert.  Enjoy!

Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Cake

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1 cup sugar

2 eggs

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 8 oz container sour cream

1/4 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla

Topping

1/2 cup walnuts

1/4 cup sugar

1 Tbsp ground cinnamon

1 6 oz package chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350.  Grease a 9" tube pan.  In a mixing bowl, cream butter with sugar.  Add eggs.  Sift dry ingredients and add to batter alternately with milk and sour cream.  Add vanilla and mix well.  In a separate bowl, mix topping ingredients.  Pour half of batter in tube pan.  Sprinkle half of topping over batter.  Pour remainder of batter and sprinkle with the rest of the topping.  Bake at 350 for 50 minutes. Enjoy!

 

Quote of the week

 Just something funny for a Tuesday :)  Have a great day!

Recipe of the day - Classic Crock Pot Roast

 I love a good pot roast.  Who doesn't?  For years we have been enjoying the Mississippi Pot Roast recipe but I wanted to do something a little more traditional.  One, because I love a traditional roast and, two, I didn't want to burn out on the Mississippi recipe.  I found this recipe on dontwastethecrumbs.com and really enjoyed it.  It was easy and delicious.  There's nothing like coming home from a long day at work with some good comfort food in the crock pot.  Enjoy!

Classic Crock Pot Roast

1 chuck roast (3-4 lbs)

1 lb baby carrots

1 1/2 lbs potatoes, cut into 1" pieces

1 packet of onion soup mix

1 can cream of mushroom soup

Place half the potatoes and carrots on the bottom of the slow cooker.  Place the chuck roast on top of the vegetables.  Place remaining vegetables on top of and around the roast.  Pour onion soup mix and mushroom soup over the top.  Cook on low for 8 hours, preferably 10.  Shred meat with two forks, serve hot.

*you can use 2 cans of soup if you want more gravy!

Quote of the day

 I've probably posted this one on here before.  It's definitely one of my favorite quotes of all time.  It gets me every time!

Song of the day - What The World Needs Now

Just wanted something to uplift me to start my day.  The news is so full of heaviness these days.  The world truly does need this.  That is all.

Softly and Tenderly

 There are certain hymns that I always go back to, for one reason or another.  This is one of my "go to" hymns.  It gives me comfort and strength and a sense of hope.  That is all.

Quote of the day

 

Song of the day - Return To The Heart

 I wanted to start my day and week off with this beautiful piece by David Lanz.  I first came to hear this years ago in high school.  Return To The Heart was the name of the album and Tanya introduced me to it.  I loved it and it's one of my favorite pieces to play on the piano.  I should really get that sheet music out again and practice!  Enjoy!

Recipe of the week - Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

 I found this recipe randomly online one day.  I was looking at another recipe and this one popped up as something similar.  Since I  do enjoy a good philly cheesesteak, I figured I would try it out.  It's pretty low carb, which is always a good thing.  I've made it twice so far and we have really enjoyed it.  I hope you do too!

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

1.5 lbs ground beef

2 green peppers, chopped

1/2 onion, chopped

1 Tbsp minced garlic

Provolone cheese slices

4 eggs, beaten

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 tsp hot sauce

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Preheat oven to 350.  Brown beef, peppers, onion and garlic together until beef is cooked through and onion and peppers begin to soften.  Drain grease from beef mixture. In a large casserole dish, add the beef mixture.  Tear apart the slices of provolone and place on top of the beef mixture.  I used about 8 slices so that the cheese would entirely cover the casserole.  In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, cream, hot sauce and Worcestershire.  Pour this over the cheese.  Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until set.  Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Quote of the day

 

Song of the day - Every Day A Little Death

 This song has been running through my head all day today.  This morning on FB, someone in one of the groups I belong to asked which character in a Sondheim musical are you?  I answered Countess Charlotte Malcolm.  If you've ever seen the show, you understand.  We definitely have the same dry wit and, to a degree, the same self torment.  If I could ever play a woman's role in the theatre, this one would be at the top of my list!

Recipe of the week - Picante Chicken

 I found this recipe in the First Baptist Church of Monroe's 1991 cookbook.  It's a recipe from the fabulous Pauline Funderburk, a wonderful cook and amazing human being.  I'm always looking for new chicken recipes and this one was easy and delicious.  I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!  Definitely a keeper!

Picante Chicken

4 chicken breast halves, skinned and boned

1 15oz jar picante sauce

2 Tbsp corn oil

1 Tbsp lime juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp dried oregano, crushed

1/4 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 350.  Spray pyrex dish with nonstick cooking spray.  Place chicken breasts in baking dish.  Mix together all other ingredients and pour over chicken.  Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour.  You may choose to marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture for a few hours before baking.

*I didn't have lime juice, so I used lemon and it was just fine!

Quote of the day

 

Song of the day - Saving All My Love

 I heard this song on the radio today at work.  I had not heard it in a long time but I have this album on vinyl now :)  When I first got it, back in 84/85, it was on cassette tape.  I believe that I still have that tape somewhere actually.  Still, hearing it again brought back a lot of memories, as music usually does for me.  That album has a lot of great songs on it and this was my favorite.  Even though at the time, I didn't understand what the song was actually about, I would still sing it at the top of my lungs...when no one was around to witness.  A great song by a great singer, another one gone too soon.  Enjoy!

Recipe of the week - Ham Salad

 Ham salad is not something that I grew up with.  Now, we did have deviled ham, but to me that is something entirely different.  Now that I am cooking more, ham is something that I always seem to have leftovers of.  This is fine but sometimes I want to do something different with the leftovers.  I've put them in my hashbrown casserole before and cooked them with eggs, both are great.  So, I decided to search for a ham salad recipe and came across this one online.  We both really enjoyed it and I hope you will too.  It has definitely been added to my recipe cycle!

Ham Salad

1 1/2 pounds boneless cooked ham

1 hard boiled egg

1 stalk celery, roughly chopped

2 tsps finely chopped onion

2 tsps sweet pickle relish

3/4 cup mayonnaise

1 Tbsp prepared mustard

salt and pepper

Put the ham, egg, celery and onion into a blender or food processor.  Pulse 20-25 times to mince.  Combine remaining ingredients in a separate bowl then stir in the minced ham mixture.  Cover and chill for several hours.

This makes a great sandwich but I also enjoy it with crackers!

Song of the day - Moon River

 

Just felt like starting my week off with a little Mancini!  Enjoy!

Antique of the day - Curio Cabinet

 

I have loved this piece for at least 30 years, even though it has been in the family much longer than that.  It is one of the true antiques that I own, in that it is over 100 years old.  I have many pieces that will become antiques soon but this one has already achieved that prestige.

This china cabinet has lived in more places than I have.  In 1909, Aunt Mary Lee and Uncle Bunyan began housekeeping in Wingate, NC.  This curio was part of that household.  During their marriage they lived in New York City, Fredericksburg, VA, Nashville, TN, and Raleigh, NC.  When Mary Lee left Raleigh in the 70's to live with Aunt Sara in Wingate, this piece made it's way to Aunt Billie's home in Wilmington, NC.  That is where I first remember it, in her dining room filled to the brim with treasures I would spend hours looking at.

Bunyan and Mary Lee Tyner, Fredericksburg, VA

When Billie died, it came to Mom and stayed in our house for about 10 years before it passed on to me here in Greensboro.  And it's been in several places here in town as well.  I'm amazed that it still has its original glass.

It is oak veneer.  There are 3 removable shelves in addition to the bottom shelf of the piece.  The glass door and two glass side panels are curved and the doorlock still works.  It's a beautiful piece that I treasure.  I don't keep it as full as I could because I like to switch things out from time to time.  I have gotten great use out of it and hopefully will pass it on in the family one day!

Quote of the day

I say this a lot these days.  No explanation needed 😉

 

Song of the day - By Strauss

 

I recently relistened this wonderful album by Maureen McGovern.  Her vocal range is amazing.  I remember first hearing this album when someone made a tape of it for Mom.  Every song is so much fun.  The album was recorded in front of a live audience.  It was in a recording studio that was set up to replicate a cabaret setting.  It's well worth a listen!  Enjoy!

Recipe of the week - Prize Winning Meatloaf

 I'm not sure what prizes this dish won, but I did enjoy it.  And, it's easy...always a plus.  I had not made a meatloaf in years, not since we got our new oven, so I figured it was time.  However, I could not find my standby meatloaf recipe so I searched for another one.  It just so happened as I was reading another "new to me" cookbook I'd gotten at the used bookstore, I came upon this recipe and decided to give it a try.  We both enjoyed it and I hope you do too!

Ingredients

1.5 lbs ground beef 

3/4 cup uncooked oats

1/4 onion, chopped

1/5 tsps salt

1 Tbsp brown sugar

1/4 tsp pepper

1 cup ketchup

1 egg,beaten

1 Tbsp mustard

Preheat oven to 350.  In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly.  Add milk if mixture is dry or flour if mixture is too moist.  Mold in a loaf an dpack firmly into an ungreased 9X5" loaf pan.  Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 1 hour and 15 minutes.  Let stand 5 minutes before slicing.

I had never used oats in meatloaf before, but I liked it and it's probably a little healthier than bread crumbs, which are traditionally used.  I will say, though, that I could not slice this particularly well.  It kept falling apart.  Nevertheless, it tasted great!  I served it with the Delicious Potatoes that I blogged awhile back and it was a delicious combo!  Enjoy!

Antique of the day - the bride's basket

Bride's baskets were a popular trend that began in the mid 19th century through the early part of the 20th century.  They were first very expensive gifts made of sterling or coin silver.  Many times the baskets were used for the flower girls to throw petals down the church aisle.  Often after the wedding, the bride's bouquet would be placed in the basket for display during the reception.  Later on they would have many uses such as a place for calling cards, serving dishes or centerpieces.  Mostly you find them these days made of silverplate.  Sometimes there is a glass bowl inserted as well.  They are lovely.

The one in the picture is mine.  It now sits on my buffet rather than in the china closet.  I love antique pieces that are stemmed.  I bought this during a trip to the local antiques mall years ago, along with a crystal compote and a milk glass banana boat.  There's definitely a pattern there LOL  I remember that Aunt Billie had one in her dining room.  It sat on top of the music cabinet and was filled with green glass grapes.  I'm not sure where hers ended up.  I enjoy mine and use it put the daily mail in.  Hey, if you have it you might as well find a use for it!  

Quote of the day

We need more of this in today's world:

Song of the Day - Child in Me Again

During all of this craziness, I have been thinking a great deal about my childhood.  It was such a different time for me, obviously, with few worries and the freedom to just be.  I cherish that and often wish I could find that again.  I've loved Nancy Lamott for 20+ years now and her version of this song just makes me feel good.  And the flute solo is fun as well :)  Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltOBpxOXejU

Escapades in Adulting - Insurance

One of the necessities of being an adult is having insurance.  Actually it is not as much a necessity as it is a luxury in this country.  Thousands upon thousands of people do not have insurance for one reason or another.  And there have been times in my life that I was one of those people.  Of course, it is at those times when I worried most about getting sick, but luckily I never did.  Growing up and into young adulthood, I had insurance through my parents.  Also, being in school gave me the opportunity for insurance.  My first full time job generously paid for my insurance.  Then, when I went back to school to finish my degree, I had insurance again through school.  

When I graduated I was able to keep my school insurance for a few months, but that ended before I found full time employment.  That was stressful just knowing that safety net was not in place.  However, I finally did get a job and after three months' employment, I was able to get insurance again.  This was in January of 2018.  I never really needed to use it but I paid roughly $100 per paycheck for it.  Fast forward to March of 2020, just before the pandemic really hit.  I started as a new patient with a wonderful doctor because I discovered, at work, that my BP was very high and I needed to get that under control.  I accidentally took an old insurance card with me.  Oops.  No problem, they told me, I could send the information over as soon as I got it.  I faxed them the current information later on that afternoon.  Easy as can be, right?  Wrong!!

They were told by the insurance company that the account was inactive.  Hmmmmm ok.  The same thing happened to the next 2 doctors I went to.  They all got the same response that the insurance was inactive.  I sat in one my superior's office at work while we called the insurance broker who said that everything was up to date and active and had no idea why this was happening.  So, then I begin to get a series of bills from the doctors.  Of course they want to be paid for their services....who doesn't?  Yet each bill I received all had the same message:  insurance not available at time of service.  Now, mind you, I'm starting to get angry because I've been paying someone a lot of money to be "not available".  

My HR has gotten involved, going above duty to help me with this.  Corporate HR has gotten involved as well.  And yet, everyone is giving us all the runaround.  My dermatologist office's billing got their claim denied 3 times and the last attempt they made, the very nice woman was transferred by BC/BS 4 times during her call and each person she talked to said they'd never heard of me and I was not one of their clients?

So, now I'm sitting on about $2000 worth of medical bills that are coming past due.  Cone Health has begun calling from their billing dept so collections are just around the corner if I cannot get this fixed in time.  It's very frustrating to say the least.  It makes me think I just try my luck with my BP and hope nature will take care of it.

In the meantime, I would like the over five thousand dollars I have paid over the last 32 months.  The money had to go somewhere, right?  It needs to come back to me.  Anyway, that's my insurance tale for right now.  Hopefully I can update soon with a happy ending to this situation.

Cheers!

Song of the Day

Today, I just wanted to get my day started with something upbeat, something fun.  This is on one of my favorite Nancy Wilson albums.  She did this one with Cannonball Adderly.  It's a version of Happy Talk from South Pacific.  A great rendition.  Enjoy!

Recipe of the week - Broccoli Corn Bread

This is another new recipe that I tried this week that turned out to be delicious!  It's not a from scratch corn bread, but it's still pretty great!  Michael and I both enjoyed this and will definitely be making this one again!

Broccoli Corn Bread

1 8.5 oz box of corn bread mix

1 med onion, chopped

1 tsp salt

3 eggs, beaten

6 oz cottage cheese

10 oz frozen chopped broccoli

1/2 cup butter, melted

Preaheat oven to 350.  In a bowl, mix all ingredients together.  Spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.  Pour batter into dish.  Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until golden brown.

* I used an 8" square pyrex, so my baking time ended up being between 45-50 minutes.

A Quiet Moment

This morning, I got up and made my coffee....my normal routine.  Gotta have my coffee! It was around 7 a.m. and the sun was up, but not full blast yet.  So, I took my first cup of coffee and sat out on the porch.  It was so peaceful.  With life having quieted down in so many ways, I just sat and enjoyed the stillness of it all.  Of course, there was movement.  Birds at the birdfeeder.  The breeze blowing through the trees.  Squirrels out on the hunt for breakfast.  No cars yet, no people out yet.  None of the neighbors were up and moving that I could see.  It was just a peaceful moment for me to enjoy my morning beverage.

In my mind, I began singing a song that we once sang in youth choir at FBC Monroe.  I didn't remember all of the words but I remember the melody.  It was called God's Gifts.  I don't remember who wrote the anthem and have not had much luck finding it online, but I do remember the first verse:

Fresh springs, mountain air

Birds singing, beauty everywhere

All of life, so rich and free

God did this because He loves me

And somehow it just fit perfectly this morning.  I sat and thanked God for what was before me.  All of the life going on in nature.  While the world is mostly crazy right now, I am so thankful that He gave me this small gift, this moment of just being one with the world.  Of being an observer and a participate in the same moment.  We are all of one world and this morning I got to see the goodness in just being in His presence.  For that I am very thankful!

My 10 Favorite Musicals from the 80's

The 80's was a great time for musicals.  It was the beginning of the British invasion.  Both Sondheim and Jerry Herman continued adding to their library.  These are my favorites from then.  There are many other great shows that came along as well.  Enjoy!

1.  42nd Street

2.  Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

3.  Into The Woods

4.  Dreamgirls

5.  Big River

6.  Les Miserables

7.  Romance/Romance

8.  La Cage Aux Folles

9.  The Phantom of the Opera

10. Me and My Girl

Song of the Day

I'm just really needing this one today.  I need that sense of unity that does not seem to exist in this country anymore.  I need the hope that one day things will get better.  I need there to be good in this world that goes recognized.  I need people to understand that we should help each other, a factor in life that should not be as hard as it is right now in America.  Before all hope in my heart dies completely, I need this.

That is all

Recipe of the Week - Delicious Potatoes

I was looking for a new potato recipe to go with a new meatloaf recipe that I was making and luckily I found this one in the same cookbook.  It is basically baked loaded mashed potatoes, but I'd honestly never made it before.  We both enjoyed it and I will definitely be adding it to my recipe cycle!

Delicious Potatoes

6 medium potatoes

1/2 cup butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped green onion

1 16oz container sour cream

2 cups grated cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 300.  Peel, slice and boil the potatoes; drain.  In a large mixing bowl, mash the potatoes with the butter.  Stir in the onion, sour cream and cheese.  Pour into a greased 3 quart casserole dish and smooth top.  Bake, uncovered for 1 hour.  

This is a great recipe to make ahead and then just cook off later.  I also cooked it at 350 for about 30-40 minutes because I was cooking the meatloaf at the same time.  Turned out just fine!  Enjoy!

Song of the day

With the pandemic restrictions going on these days, I don't see many people I know outside of work.  They are on my mind a lot lately.  This song keeps popping into my head and wanted to share.  Enjoy!

Recipe of the week - Corn and Bacon Dip

Well, if you like corn and bacon, you will enjoy this dip!  It's pretty easy and very tasty.  I made it for the first time yesterday and will definitely make it again!

Corn and Bacon Dip

1 8oz package of cream cheese, softened

1 8oz container of sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp hot pepper sauce

1 15oz can whole kernal corn, drained

8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, garlic and hot sauce.  Stir in bacon and corn.  Chill before serving.  Serve with veggies or crackers.

Enjoy!