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REMINDER FROM GOD:
Our Daily Devotional:
Blissful Ignorance
John 6:60, 66, NIV: "On hearing it, many of his disciples said, 'This is a hard teaching, who can accept it?' ...From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him."
Jesus had finished explaining to many of his disciples some of the principles surrounding who He was. But what Jesus said was difficult for them to receive because what He said rubbed harshly against their flesh. What Jesus said did not settle with what they in their own human wisdom could reason out. "Many of his disciples," the scripture tells us, "turned back and no longer followed him." Their response was to say within themselves, "I just can't understand that--I don't even want to think about it." We like to feel secure in our beliefs and understandings about the way things are. When something or someone comes along that shakes those beliefs and causes us to question things of which we have felt secure in our understanding, our tendency is to resist. We become uncomfortable and insecure and find ourselves at the crossroads--wondering what is right and who is wrong. We have a choice: struggle through the questions, trusting God for the answers; or bow to the bliss of ignorance.
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WORD FOR THE DAY:
pecksniffian pek-SNIF-ee-uhn , adjective:
Hypocritically and smugly affecting benevolence or high moral principles.
With such departing words, did this strong minded female paralyze the Pecksniffian energies; and so she swept out of the room, and out of the house, attended her daughters, who, as with one accord, elevated their three noses in the air, and joined in a contemptuous titter.
-- Charles Dickens, Martin Chuzzlewit, Volume 1
The men who do things in the world, the men worthy of admiration and imitation, are men constitutionally incapable of any such pecksniffian stupidity.
-- H. L. Mencken, Damn! A Book of Calumny
Pecksniffian is named after Seth Pecksniff, a character in "Martin Chuzzlewit, a novel" (1843), by Charles Dickens.
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Parrot Quotable Quotes
We know parrots do the quoting, and they can
do it verbatim. However, the following are some
quotes ABOUT THEM that you may repeat:
“Live in such a way that you would not be
ashamed to sell your parrot to the town gossip.â€
– Will Rogers, American cowboy, comedian,
vaudeville actor and social commentator
Note: Many people have repeated this quote,
but Dr. Billy Graham gave it his own twist:
“A real Christian is a person who can give his
pet parrot to the town gossip.â€
“I never married because there was no need.
I have three pets at home which answer the
same purpose as a husband. I have a dog
which growls every morning, a parrot which
swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes
home late at night.†– Marie Corelli, British
novelist
“Much talking is the cause of danger. Silence is
the means of avoiding misfortune. The talkative
parrot is shut up in a cage. Other birds,
without speech, fly freely about.†– Sakya
Pandita, Tibetan spiritual leader and Buddhist
scholar
“Teach a parrot the terms 'supply and demand'
and you've got an economist.†– Thomas Carlyle,
Scottish satirical writer
“To a teacher of languages there comes a time
when the world is but a place of many words
and man appears a mere talking animal not much
more wonderful than a parrot.†– Joseph Conrad,
English novelist
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RECIPE:
Rhubarb Pork Chop Casserole
"This casserole is a perfect mix of sweet and tart and quite an unusual use of rhubarb," writes Jeanie Castor of Decatur, Illinois. "I enjoy rhubarb but I'm not a dessert person, so I like to use it for more than pies and cobblers."
Prep: 10 min. Cook: 45 min.
Yield: 2 Servings
Ingredients
2 bone-in pork loin chops (7 ounces each)
1-1/2 teaspoons canola oil
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1-1/4 cups soft bread crumbs
1-1/2 cups sliced fresh or frozen rhubarb (1-inch pieces)
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
In a large skillet, , cook chops in oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side or until chops are lightly browned; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Remove and keep warm. Mix pan drippings with bread crumbs. Reserve 1/4 cup; sprinkle remaining crumbs into an 8-in. square baking dish.
Combine the rhubarb, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon; spoon half over the bread crumbs. Arrange pork chops on top. Spoon remaining rhubarb mixture over chops. Cover and bake at 325° for 30-35 minutes.
Uncover; sprinkle with reserved bread crumbs. Bake 10-15 minutes longer or until pork is tender. Yield: 2 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 serving equals 464 calories, 13 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 86 mg cholesterol, 417 mg sodium, 52 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 34 g protein.
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Portobello Spaghetti Casserole
In the mood for a meatless meal? You can't go wrong with this easy, Italian-style casserole. You can substitute shiitakes for the portobellos, if you wish. —Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Prep: 30 min. Bake: 40 min.
Yield: 3 Servings
Ingredients
4 ounces uncooked spaghetti
3 portobello mushrooms, stems removed and thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 egg
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1-1/2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1-1/4 cups marinara sauce
3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Directions
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the mushrooms, salt and pepper in oil until mushrooms are tender; drain.
In a large bowl, combine the egg, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, flour, garlic powder and pepper flakes. Drain spaghetti; add to sour cream mixture.
Transfer to a 1-1/2-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with mushrooms and marinara sauce.
Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake 10-15 minutes longer or until a meat thermometer reads 160° and cheese is melted. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Yield: 3 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 cup equals 422 calories, 16 g fat (7 g saturated fat), 103 mg cholesterol, 601 mg sodium, 48 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 20 g protein.
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Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Smoked turkey sausage and red pepper flakes add zip to this saucy, slow-cooked version of the New Orleans classic. For extra heat, add red pepper sauce at the table. —Julia Bushree, Georgetown, Texas
Prep: 20 min. Cook: 8 hours
Yield: 9 Servings
Ingredients
4 cans (16 ounces each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 package (14 ounces) smoked turkey sausage, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
3 celery ribs, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 small sweet red pepper, chopped
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 green onions, chopped
Hot cooked rice
Directions
In a 4-qt. slow cooker, combine the first 11 ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until vegetables are tender. Stir before serving. Discard bay leaf.
Sprinkle each serving with onions. Serve with rice. Yield: 9 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 cup (calculated without rice) equals 259 calories, 3 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 28 mg cholesterol, 937 mg sodium, 39 g carbohydrate, 11 g fiber, 21 g protein.
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Lemon Chicken Skewers
This recipe is: Quick Diabetic Friendly
Prep: 10 min. + marinade. Grill: 15 min.
Yield: 6 Servings
Ingredients
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-1/2-in. pieces
3 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and cut into 1-1/2-inch slices
3 medium onions, cut into wedges
12 cherry tomatoes
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first nine ingredients; set aside 1/4 cup for basting. Pour half into a large resealable plastic bag; add chicken. Seal bag and turn to coat. Pour the remaining marinade into another large resealable plastic bag; add the zucchini, onions and tomatoes. Seal bag and turn to coat. Refrigerate chicken and vegetables for up to 4 hours or overnight.
Drain and discard marinade. Alternately thread chicken and vegetables onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 6 minutes on each side or until chicken juices run clear, basting occasionally with reserved marinade. Yield: 6 servings.
Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals 219 calories, 6 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 66 mg cholesterol, 278 mg sodium, 12 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 29 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable.
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Chicken Cacciatore
This dish makes a good Sunday dinner, since it's so quick to prepare. It's inexpensive besides...plus, most all cooks have the ingredients on hand. My husband (a high school music teacher) and I live on Vancouver Island, right on the Pacific Ocean. Our six children are grown—I'm taking up quilting this year so I can stitch homemade gifts for our seven grandchildren.
Prep: 15 min. Cook: 1-1/4 hours
Yield: 6 Servings
Ingredients
1 broiler/fryer chicken (3-1/2 to 4 pounds), cut up
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 celery rib, sliced diagonally
1 large green pepper, cut into strips
1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
1 can (28 ounces) tomatoes, cut up and juice reserved
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 cup dry red wine or water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon sugar
Hot cooked pasta
Grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Dust chicken with flour. Season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, brown chicken on all sides in oil and butter over medium-high. Remove chicken to platter.
In same skillet, cook and stir the onion, celery, pepper and mushrooms for 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, wine or water, herbs, garlic and sugar. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
Return chicken to skillet. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes or until chicken is tender. Serve over pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Yield: 6 servings.
Nutritional Analysis: 4-1/2 ounces cooked chicken equals 517 calories, 25 g fat (8 g saturated fat), 112 mg cholesterol, 790 mg sodium, 28 g carbohydrate, 6 g fiber, 39 g protein.
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Chicken Chow Mein
“When we go out for Chinese food, my husband always orders chicken chow mein. This is recipe uses richer-flavored tamari sauce rather than soy.â€
This recipe is: Healthy, Quick, Diabetic Friendly
Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
Yield: 2 Servings
Ingredients
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2/3 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
2/3 cup thinly sliced celery
1/4 cup sliced onion
1/4 cup thinly sliced green pepper
2 tablespoons julienned carrot
1 teaspoon canola oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup cubed cooked chicken breast
1 cup cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons chow mein noodles
Directions
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, broth, soy sauce, salt and ginger until smooth; set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry the mushrooms, celery, onion, pepper and carrot in oil for 5 minutes. Add garlic; stir-fry 1-2 minutes longer or until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Stir cornstarch mixture and add to the pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add chicken; heat through. Serve with rice; sprinkle with chow mein noodles. Yield: 2 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 cup chow mein with 1/2 cup cooked brown rice and 1 tablespoon chow mein noodles equals 307 calories, 7 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 54 mg cholesterol, 984 mg sodium, 35 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 27 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
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Here are some tried-and-true fishing tips from an expert fisherman.
Be at the right place at the right time.
General rules regarding the right time are as follows:
Trout are abundant when water temperatures are between 50ºF and 55ºF. For fly-fishermen, this is when mayflies are hatching and trout are feeding at the surface, usually from dusk to dark during the summer. For bait fishermen, the right time is early spring, when stream levels rise.
Smallmouth bass are abundant during spawning season (late May to early June) wherever the law allows. Cast to the shoreline with fly-rod lures.
Largemouth bass are all-season feeders, with depth more important than time. They will cruise the shoreline after dark, so use a flashlight sparingly.
Northern pike, pickerel, and panfish are all-season biters as well.
Walleyes can be caught during spawning runs where legal (late April and early May). After spawning, look along shorelines, where they tend to cruise in schools.
Landlocked salmon are ready from ice-out until surface temperatures approach 60ºF.
Bullheads feed most actively at night.
Fish at the proper depth.
Determining the right depth is of critical importance, especially in lake fishing.
Shallow depths are tolerated by northern pike, pickerel, largemouth bass, and panfish. They can be caught throughout the season in water bordering weed beds, around sunken brush, and in the shade.
Thermocline-level fish dwell approximately 20 to 35 feet below the surface, and include trout, walleye, and smallmouth bass. They are attracted to hot spots such as drop-offs and sunken reefs. Once you've found them, fish natural baits within inches of the bottom.
Use the correct bait or lure.
Most species have a particular preference:
Baits
Nightcrawlers are preferred by trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, bullheads, small catfish, and eels.
Crayfish are preferred by trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass.
Minnows are preferred by trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass, and walleye.
Smelt is preferred by landlocked salmon.
Lures
Streamers attract trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass.
Plugs attract smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Popping bugs attract northern pike, pickerel, panfish, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass.
Wobblers attract landlocked salmon, walleye, and trout.
Use the proper presentation.
Even if you follow the three steps above, you can still come home empty-handed because of faulty presentation.
Remember, natural baits appeal to fish hunger. Lures draw strikes by exciting fish to attack.
Use the smallest hooks, lightest sinkers, and finest lines and leaders that are practical. This will avoid causing alarm and suspicion.
The secret of success with lures is erratic retrieves. Experiment with different variations.
Following these tips will improve your chances of a good catch but will not guarantee it. On some days, the fish win. Remember, only a poor loser begrudges a worthy opponent his share of victory.
A fishing rod is a stick with a hook on one end and a fool on the other.
–proverb
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JOKES:
Q: What do men and pantyhose have in common?
A: They either cling, run or don't fit right in the crotch!
"To forgive is the highest, most beautiful
form of love. In return, you will receive
untold peace and happiness."
- Dr. Robert Muller
THING TO PONDER: Why do they sterilize the needles for lethal injection?
There was the cartoon showing two people fighting over a cow. One was
pulling the cow by the tail; the other was pulling on the horns.
Underneath was a lawyer milking the cow.
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It is said that P. T. Barnum, the famed circus magnate, hung a large sign
over one of the exits of his museum which read, "This way to the egress."
Many people in the crowds, eager to see what an egress looked like, passed
through the door and found themselves out on the street.
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While waiting for the final voter recount in Florida, media services questioned the two major presidential candidates today. Both agreed that Americans are seeing too much inappropriate material in popular entertainment. However, they disagreed on the details.
The Republican candidate, George W. Bush, stated that there is too much bloody violence in the movies and on television.
Vice President Al Gore, his Democratic opponent, stated that the media presents Americans with too much sex and frontal nudity.
In other words, Bush says there is too much gore and Gore says there is too much bush.
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Three men were drinking at a bar -- a doctor, an attorney
and a biker. As the doctor was drinking his white wine he said, "For
her birthday, I'm going to buy my wife a fur coat and a diamond ring.
This way, if she doesn't like the fur coat she will still love me
because she got a diamond ring."
As the attorney was drinking his martini he said, "For my wife's
birthday, I'm going to buy her a designer dress and a gold bracelet.
This way, if she doesn't like the dress she will still love me because
she got the gold bracelet."
As the biker was drinking his shots of whiskey he said, "I'm going to
buy my wife a T-shirt and a vibrator. This way, if she doesn't like
the T-shirt she can go f*%$ herself!"
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Two guys go hunting. Jerry has never gone hunting while Joe has hunted all his life.
When they get to the northern Wisconsin woods, Joe tells Jerry to sit by a tree and not make a sound while Joe checks out a deer stand.
After he gets about a quarter of a mile away, Joe hears a blood-curdling scream.
He rushes back to Jerry and yells, "I thought I told you to be quiet!"
Jerry says, "Hey, I tried. I really did. When those snakes crawled over me, I didn't make a sound. When that bear was breathing down my neck, I didn't make a peep. But when those two chipmunks crawled up my pants leg and said, 'Should we take them with us or eat them here?' I couldn't keep quiet any more!"
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
REMINDER FROM GOD:
Confessing the Wrong Sin
"Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment."1
Years ago I remember reading a simple but profound statement that Cecil Osborne made. He said, "When we are hiding a deeper sin or fault we tend to confess a lesser sin all the more vigorously."
For instance, an old friend had been trying to overcome his smoking habit for twenty years without success. He had been judged for this by folk in his church for as many years. He had also confessed his problem endlessly and prayed for deliverance, but no matter what he did, he just couldn't beat the habit.
When he shared his struggle with me I simply asked him, "Why do you need to smoke?"
He looked at me with a blank look as if to say, "Are you crazy, what are you talking about? I don't need this problem."
He then mumbled a few incoherent words, turned around and walked away. He died a few years later of cancer!
My friend's smoking wasn't the real problem. It was the fruit of a deeper root. He was confessing the wrong sin. True, his addiction to tobacco was a problem that needed to be resolved, but it was the symptom of a deeper problem that, it seems, he didn't want to look at, confront and deal with.
The same is true of all addictive behaviors and many of our negative and sinful actions. We need to be ruthlessly honest with ourselves, to at least one safe person who won't judge or put us down, and to God, and admit and confess not only the symptoms, but also the causes behind them. We may need to ask God to give us the courage to face these causes and lead us to the help, support, and recovery we need to overcome. This is the kind of praying that God hears and answers.
As his Word, the Bible, says, "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth."2
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please give me the courage to face, see and resolve any and all causes behind any symptoms in my life—whether they be behavioral, physical, emotional or spiritual. Help me to find a safe, trusted friend to confess these to. And lead me to the help I need to overcome. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
1. Proverbs 12:19 (NIV).
2. Psalm 145:18 (NIV).
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WORD FOR THE DAY:
jujitsu joo-JIT-soo , noun:
1. The ability to accomplish a task with no apparent effort or resistance.
2. Method developed in Japan of defending oneself without the use of weapons by using the strength and weight of an adversary to disable him.
She stared at me as though I were some kind of bizarre math whiz, and she feared I was about to do some jujitsu calculus on her.
-- Stephen White, Blinded
Edmund has always had a way of turning things around on their head, practicing his own brand of moral jujitsu, Claire's holy zeal for humanity in the abstract!
-- Francine du Plessix Gray, World Without End
Jujitsu comes from the Japanese martial art of the same name, with the word being a combination of ju, "soft," and jitsu, "technique."
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RECIPE:
Beef Satay
Prep: 15 hours Cook: 10 min.
Yield: 6 Servings
Ingredients
BEEF SATAY:
3/4 cup low sodium beef broth
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons minced fresh gingerroot
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb boneless top round steak, cut into 1/4-inch-thick strips
1 teaspoon grapeseed oil
PEANUT SAUCE:
1 tablespoon light honey
3/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon chopped cilantro
2 teaspoons chili paste
4 tablespoons fresh lime juice, (juice of 1 lime)
1/4 cup warm water
Directions
Beef Satay: In a large, resealable plastic bag, combine broth, soy sauce, ginger root, and garlic. Add steak; seal bag, and turn to coat steak.
Marinate in refrigerator for at least 2 hours, turning bag occasionally.
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes.
Remove steak from marinade, reserving marinade.
Place marinade in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat, strain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup for peanut sauce.
Thread steak evenly onto twelve 8-inch skewers (or 24 4.5-inch skewers, if making as appetizer). Coat broiler pan with cooking spray. Space skewers evenly on prepared broiler pan.
Place pan 5-inch from heat (with electric oven door partially opened) for 7 to 8 minutes (or to desired degree of doneness), basting frequently with remaining marinade.
Remove from broiler and arrange on serving plate.
Peanut Sauce: In food processor or blender, combine peanut butter, honey, cilantro, chili paste, lime juice, and 1/2 cup of heated marinade. Drizzle in hot water, if needed to thin.
Nutritional Facts 1 serving equals 353 calories, 20 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 348 mg sodium, 12 g carbohydrate, 29 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3-1/2 fat, 2-3/4 lean meat, 2-1/4 meat, 1/2 starch.
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Singapore Satay Sandwiches
“My grandkids think this shredded chicken is the best thing under a bun. The peanut butter flavor and fresh fruit and veggie toppings make it a fun, packable sandwich for lunches.â€
This recipe is:
Quick
Diabetic Friendly
Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
Yield: 6 Servings
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon steak seasoning
1 tablespoon canola oil
3 tablespoons reduced-fat chunky peanut butter
1/4 cup unsweetened apple juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce
6 kaiser rolls, split
2 cups torn romaine
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup julienned peeled cucumber
6 tablespoons unsweetened crushed pineapple
Directions
Sprinkle chicken on both sides with steak seasoning. In a large skillet, cook chicken in oil for 4-7 minutes on each side or until juices run clear. Transfer to a cutting board and shred.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt peanut butter. Whisk in the apple juice, lime juice, soy sauce and hot pepper sauce. Add chicken and toss to coat.
Spoon 1/2 cup chicken mixture onto roll bottoms; top with romaine, carrots, cucumber and pineapple. Replace roll tops. Yield: 6 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 sandwich equals 388 calories, 11 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 63 mg cholesterol, 759 mg sodium, 41 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 31 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
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Chicken Satay
This recipe is:
Quick
Diabetic Friendly
Prep: 15 min. + marinating Grill: 5 min.
Yield: 8 Servings
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup 2% milk
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon each ground coriander, ground turmeric and ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon white pepper
1/8 teaspoon coconut extract
PEANUT BUTTER SAUCE:
1/3 cup peanut butter
1/3 cup 2% milk
2 green onions, chopped
1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
2 to 3 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon minced fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon minced fresh gingerroot
1/8 teaspoon coconut extract
Directions
Flatten chicken to 1/4-in. thickness; cut lengthwise into 1-in.-wide strips. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the milk, garlic, brown sugar, seasonings and extract. Add chicken; seal bag and turn to coat. Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
In a small bowl, whisk the sauce ingredients until blended. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Drain and discard marinade. Thread two chicken strips onto each metal or soaked wooden skewer.
Grill, uncovered, over medium-hot heat for 2-3 minutes on each side or until chicken juices run clear. Serve with peanut butter sauce. Yield: 8 servings (1 cup sauce).
Editor's Note: Wear disposable gloves when cutting hot peppers; the oils can burn skin. Avoid touching your face.
Nutritional Analysis: 2 skewers with 2 tablespoons sauce (prepared with reduced-fat peanut butter, fat-free milk and reduced-sodium soy sauce) equals 202 calories, 6 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 63 mg cholesterol, 428 mg sodium, 8 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 27 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
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Chicken Satay Wraps
Rotisserie chicken or refrigerated grilled chicken strips can be used to speed up the recipe preparation. Whole wheat tortillas are a nice change of pace from traditional flour tortillas.
Prep/Total Time: 15 min.
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
2 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups sliced cooked chicken
1 cup coleslaw mix
4 flour tortillas (8 inches), room temperature
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk the oil, peanut butter, onions, soy sauce and pepper until combined. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Sprinkle 1/4 cup coleslaw mix over each tortilla; top with chicken mixture. Roll up tightly. Yield: 4 servings.
Nutritional Analysis: 1 wrap equals 321 calories, 16 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 62 mg cholesterol, 325 mg sodium, 23 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 26 g protein.
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Seafood Brochettes
Prep: 30 min. Grill: 5 min.
Yield: 12 Servings
Ingredients
24 medium fresh mushrooms
24 cherry tomatoes
8 bacon strips, cut into thirds
1 pound halibut, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound sea scallops
1/2 cup butter, melted
CHIVE BUTTER:
1 cup butter, melted
2 to 3 tablespoons minced chives
Directions
On 12 metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternately thread two mushrooms, two tomatoes and two pieces of bacon with four pieces of fish or seafood. Brush with melted butter.
Grill, covered, over medium-hot heat for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque, turning once. Combine butter and chives; serve with brochettes. Yield: 1 dozen.
Nutritional Facts 1 brochette with 4 teaspoons chive butter equals 347 calories, 26 g fat (15 g saturated fat), 135 mg cholesterol, 389 mg sodium, 4 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 24 g protein.
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Shrimp and Scallop Kabobs
“These seafood kabobs are a big hit with everyone who loves spicy food. Don’t forget to use the extra seasoned butter as a dipping sauce!â€
This recipe is: Quick
Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients
3/4 cup butter, cubed
3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1-1/2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon onion powder
12 uncooked large shrimp (about 1/2 pound)
16 sea scallops (about 2 pounds)
Directions
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, pepper sauce, garlic powder and onion powder; set aside 1/2 cup butter mixture for serving and keep warm.
Peel and devein shrimp, leaving tails on. On four metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternately thread shrimp and scallops.
Using long-handled tongs, moisten a paper towel with cooking oil and lightly coat the grill rack. Grill, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 3-5 minutes on each side or until shrimp turn pink and scallops are firm and opaque, basting occasionally with butter mixture. Serve with reserved butter. Yield: 4 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 kabob with 2 tablespoons sauce equals 399 calories, 35 g fat (22 g saturated fat), 170 mg cholesterol, 813 mg sodium, 3 g carbohydrate, trace fiber, 19 g protein
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JOKES:
New secretary (second day on the job) answers telephone as is told in
official tones: "This is the phone company. We are testing a new
circuit wiring scheme in your offices. Please keep everyone off the
phones for the next 10 minutes. We will be verifying the correct wiring
of your system by passing HOT STEAM through the wires. Instruct your
employees to place their phones on the floor, or, better yet, wrap them
in towels to avoid scalding themselves. We will advise you when the
tests are complete $click$" After momentary panic, the secretary begins
a frenzied "Paul Revere" routine, running from desk to desk while
glancing frequently at her watch. Just as the 10 minutes are about up,
she bursts into her boss's office (while he is in the midst of an
important long-distance call) and, screaming, grabs the receiver from
his hand and flings the whole phone under his desk...
**********************************************
Girlfriend Tech Support E-mail
I am currently running the latest version of GirlFriend and I've been
having some problems lately. I've been running the same version of
DrinkingBuddies 1.0 forever as my primary application, and all the
GirlFriend releases I've tried have always conflicted with it. I hear
that DrinkingBuddies won't crash if GirlFriend is run in background mode
and the sound is turned off. But I'm embarrassed to say I can't find
the switch to turn the sound off. I just run them separately, and it
works okay.
Girlfriend also seems to have a problem co-existing with my Fishing 97
program, often trying to abort Fishing 97 with some sort of timing
incompatibility. I probably should have stayed with GirlFriend 1.0, but
I thought I might see better performance from GirlFriend 2.0. After
months of conflicts and other problems, I consulted a friend who has had
experience with GirlFriend 2.0. He said I probably didn't have enough
cache to run GirlFriend 2.0, and eventually it would require a Token
Ring to run properly. He was right - as soon as I purged my cache, it
uninstalled itself.
Shortly after that, I installed GirlFriend 3.0 beta. All the bugs were
supposed to be gone, but the first time I used it, it gave me a virus
anyway. I had to clean out my whole system and shut down for a while. I
very cautiously upgraded to GirlFriend 4.0. This time I used a SCSI
probe first and also installed a virus protection program. It worked
okay for a while until I discovered that GirlFriend 1.0 was still in my
system. I tried running GirlFriend 1.0 again with GirlFriend 4.0 still
installed, but GirlFriend 4.0 has a feature I didn't know about that
automatically senses the presence of any other version of GirlFriend and
communicates with it in some way, which results in the immediate removal
of both versions.
The version I have now works pretty well, but there are still some
problems. Like all versions of GirlFriend, it is written in some obscure
language I can't understand, much less reprogram. Frankly I think there
is too much attention paid to the look and feel rather than the desired
functionality. Also, to get the best connections with your hardware,
you usually have to use gold-plated contacts. And I've never liked how
GirlFriend is totally "object-oriented."
A year ago, a friend of mine upgraded his version of GirlFriend to
GirlFriendPlus 1.0, which is a Terminate and Stay Resident version of
GirlFriend. He discovered that GirlFriendPlus 1.0 expires within a year
if you don't upgrade to Fiancee 1.0. So he did, but soon after that, he
had to upgrade to Wife 1.0 which he describes as a huge resource hog.
It has taken up all his space, so he can't load anything else. One of
the primary reasons he decided to go with Wife 1.0 was because it came
bundled with FreeSexPlus. Well, it turns out the resource allocation
module of Wife 1.0 sometimes prohibits access to FreeSexPlus,
particularly the new Plug-Ins he wanted to try. On top of that, Wife
1.0 must be running on a well warmed-up system before he can do
anything. Although he did not ask for it, Wife 1.0 came with
MotherInLaw which has an automatic pop-up feature he can't turn off. I
told him to try installing Mistress 1.0, but he said he heard if you try
to run it without first uninstalling Wife 1.0, Wife 1.0 will delete
MSMoney files before doing the uninstall itself. Then Mistress 1.0
won't install anyway because of insufficient resources.
Any Ideas???
**********************************************
A distraught patient phoned her doctor's office. Was it
true, the woman wanted to know, that the medication the
doctor had prescribed was for the rest of her life?
She was told that it was.
There was a moment of silence before the woman continued,
"I'm wondering, then, just how serious my condition is. This
prescription is marked 'NO REFILLS.'"
**********************************************
THING TO PONDER: Why is jack a nickname for John?
"People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing."
- Dale Carnegie
You might be a REDNECK if...
...your back porch is bigger than your house.
*************************************************
One day, shortly after joining the PGA tour in 1965, Lee Trevino, a professional golfer and married man, was at his home in Dallas,Texas mowing his front lawn, as he always did.
A lady driving by in a big, shiny Cadillac stopped in front of his house, lowered the window and asked," Excuse me, do you speak English ?"
Lee responded, " Yes Ma'am, I do "
The lady then asked, " What do you charge to do yard work ? "
Lee said, " Well, the lady in this house lets me sleep with her ".
The lady hurriedly put the car into gear and sped off.
***************************************
HELL TO GET OLD ................
Two medical students were walking along the street when they saw an old man
walking with his legs spread apart. He was stiff-legged and walking slowly.
One student said to his friend:
"I'm sure that poor old man has Peltry Syndrome.
Those people walk just like that."
The other student says:
"No, I don't think so. The old man surely has Zovitzki Syndrome.
He walks slowly and his legs are apart, just as we learned in class."
Since they couldn't agree they decided to ask the old man. They approached him
and one of the students said to him,
"We're medical students and couldn't help
but notice the way you walk, but we couldn't agree on the syndrome you might have.
Could you tell us what it is?"
The old man said,
"I'll tell you, but first you tell me what you two fine medical students think."
The first student said, "I think it's Peltry Syndrome."
The old man said, "You thought - but you are wrong."
The other student said, "I think you have Zovitzki Syndrome."
The old man said, "You thought - but you are wrong."
So they asked him, "Well, old timer, what do you have?"
The old man said,
"I thought it was GAS - but I was wrong, too!"
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
REMINDER FROM GOD:
Our Daily Devotional:
What Is The World Coming To?
2 Timothy 3:1-4, NIV: "...There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God."
Many believe we are in the last days; many believe we have been for some time. Only God knows when all things will converge according to His will to bring us into the final days of the last days. As time goes by--as the final days draw near to the fullness of time--we can be certain we will see the decay of all things. Morality becomes more subjective. Civility and decency toward others declines. The world itself will tremble and weaken as the disease of humanity's sin eats away as a cancer in the bones of all creation. We live in a world which grows more hedonistic by the day. The hedonism has penetrated the walls of the church; and, many within the church embrace worldly things once considered disgraceful. The world will wallow in sin, but the church must not. The church must draw a distinct line. God's people must remember that as His followers we are to take up our cross. While the world pursues personal happiness and self fulfillment; we are to pursue God in truth and with all our being.
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Matthew 5:3
**********************************************
WORD FOR THE DAY:
chockablock CHOK-uh-BLOK , adjective:
1. Extremely full; crowded; jammed.
2. Nautical. Having the blocks drawn close together, as when the tackle is hauled to the utmost.
adverb:
1. In a crowded manner: books piled chockablock on the narrow shelf.
This town is chockablock with restaurants that are just clones of the same old themes.
-- Amy Tan, The Joy Luck Club
lf opossum and skunk and raccoon can hide there, survive there, year after year, decade after decade, almost in the middle of a teeming metropolitan chockablock, think how an enterprising monkey might fare.
-- Tom Robbins, Half Asleep in Frog Pajamas
Chockablock is of uncertain origin. It is likely related to the word chock-full which means "crammed". The word chock refers to a wooden block that holds something in place.
**********************************************
Passionflower
Inside this Article
Uses for Passionflower
Passionflower: Preparations and Dosage
See all Natural Medicine articles
The ancient Aztecs reportedly used passionflower as a sedative and pain reliever. Today herbalists also recommend it as a sedative and antispasmodic agent.
Passionflower has been used for anxiety, epilepsy, and high blood pressure, as well as to treat other conditions.
Passionflower has been used for:
anxiety, epilepsy, and high blood pressure, as well as to treat other conditions.
Passionflower can be such a potent herbal remedy because it calms muscle tension and twitching without affecting respiratory rate or mental function the way many pharmaceutical sedatives do. Find out how harvesting and using the entire aboveground part of the plant -- leaf, stem, and flower -- can provide relief.
Uses for Passionflower
Passionflower has been used for anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, epilepsy, and other conditions of hyperactivity, as well as high blood pressure. Passionflower also is included in many pain formulas when discomfort is caused by muscle tension and emotional turmoil.
In Europe the flowers are added to numerous pharmaceuticals to treat nerve disorders, heart palpitations, anxiety, and high blood pressure. Unlike most sedative drugs, passionflower has been shown to be nonaddictive, although it is not a strong pain reliever.
Passionflower Precautions and Warnings
Passionflower is generally considered to be nontoxic when used in moderation. Many herbalists prescribe three or four cups a day without any problems reported. Do not take passionflower if you are already taking prescription medication for anxiety or depression, as excessive sleepiness has been reported.
Also be aware that passionflower's close relative, blue passionflower, should not be used, as it does not have the same activity.
Passionflower Side Effects
Depression of the nervous system may result in fatigue and mental fogginess if you take too much passionflower for too long. Start with a low dose several times a day and increase as you learn how you respond to passionflower.
In the next section, you will learn how to prepare passionflower for herbal remedies and some of the potentially dangerous side effects.
To learn more about treating common medical conditions at home, try the following links:
For an overview of all of our herbal remedies, go to the main Herbal Remedies page.
To learn more about treating medical conditions at home, visit our main Home Remedies page.
One of the best things you can do for your health and well being is to make sure you are getting enough of the vital nutrients your body needs. Visit our Vitamins page to learn more.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.
Before engaging in any complementary medical technique, including the use of natural or herbal remedies, you should be aware that many of these techniques have not been evaluated in scientific studies. Use of these remedies in connection with over the counter or prescription medications can cause severe adverse reactions. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about whether practitioners are required to be professionally licensed. If you plan to visit a practitioner, it is recommended that you choose one who is licensed by a recognized national organization and who abides by the organization's standards. It is always best to speak with your primary health care provider before starting any new therapeutic technique.
Passionflower: Preparations and Dosage
Passionflower can be taken as an herbal remedy when dried or in its fresh form, depending on the usage. The following suggestions include some ways to ingest this powerful herb.
Passionflower Preparations and Dosage
Passionflower is dried for teas but is prepared from fresh or dry material when used in tinctures.
Passion Flower
Herbal Tea
For acute stress and anxiety, drink 2 to 4 cups per day for a week; then reduce the dosage or take less often
Tincture: For muscle tension and anxiety, take 30 to 60 drops (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) of tincture twice a day or up to every two to three hours, depending on your response. Start with the smaller dose and increase the amount and frequency as needed.
Capsules: Take 2 capsules two or three times a day, with a larger dose an hour before bedtime for insomnia.
Passionflower Side Effects
Depression of the nervous system may result in fatigue and mental fogginess if you take too much passionflower for too long. Start with a low dose several times a day and increase as you learn how you respond to passionflower.
Passionflower Precautions and Warnings
Passionflower is generally considered to be nontoxic when used in moderation. Many herbalists prescribe three or four cups a day without any problems reported. Do not take passionflower if you are already taking prescription medication for anxiety or depression, as excessive sleepiness has been reported.
Also be aware that passionflower's close relative, blue passionflower, should not be used, as it does not have the same activity. When used correctly, passionflower can help reduce or relieve anxiety -- giving you focus to get through the day.
To learn more about treating common medical conditions at home, try the following links:
For an overview of all of our herbal remedies, go to the main Herbal Remedies page.
To learn more about treating medical conditions at home, visit our main Home Remedies page.
One of the best things you can do for your health and well being is to make sure you are getting enough of the vital nutrients your body needs. Visit our Vitamins page to learn more.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jennifer Brett, N.D. is director of the Acupuncture Institute for the University of Bridgeport, where she also serves on the faculty for the College of Naturopathic Medicine. A recognized leader in her field with an extensive background in treating a wide variety of disorders utilizing nutritional and botanical remedies, Dr. Brett has appeared on WABC TV (NYC) and on Good Morning America to discuss utilizing herbs for health.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.
Before engaging in any complementary medical technique, including the use of natural or herbal remedies, you should be aware that many of these techniques have not been evaluated in scientific studies. Use of these remedies in connection with over the counter or prescription medications can cause severe adverse reactions. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about whether practitioners are required to be professionally licensed. If you plan to visit a practitioner, it is recommended that you choose one who is licensed by a recognized national organization and who abides by the organization's standards. It is always best to speak with your primary health care provider before starting any new therapeutic technique.
http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/passionflower-herbal-remedies.htm...: 10 gorditas
Total Time: 45 min
Ingredients
2 cup(s) masa harina, preferably Bob's Red Mill
1 1/4 cup(s) water
1/4 cup(s) vegetable oil, plus more for frying
Shredded chicken, for serving
Salsa, for serving
Sour cream, for serving
Cotija cheese, for serving
Directions
In a large bowl, mix the masa harina with the water and the 1/4 cup of oil. Transfer the dough to a sheet of plastic wrap and roll into a 10-inch log; cut into 10 pieces. Using a 3-inch round biscuit cutter, mold the pieces into flat disks a scant 1/2 inch thick.
Heat a large griddle or comal (a round, flat griddle). Add the gorditas and cook over high heat, turning once, until lightly browned in spots, about 2 minutes per side. Using the back of a spoon, lightly press an indentation in the center of each gordita.
In a large skillet, heat 1/4 inch of oil until shimmering. Add the gorditas and fry over high heat until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes per side; drain on paper towels. Top the indentations with chicken, salsa, sour cream, and cheese and serve hot.
**********************************************
Cresant Layer Bars
INGREDIENTS
1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls or 1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury® Crescent Recipe Creations® refrigerated seamless dough sheet
1 cup white vanilla baking chips
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup slivered almonds
1 cup cashew halves and pieces
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated)
DIRECTIONS
1 Heat oven to 375°F (350°F for dark pans). Grease bottom and sides of 13x9-inch pan. 2 If using crescent rolls: Unroll dough into 2 long rectangles. If using dough sheet: Unroll dough. Place in pan; press over bottom and 1/2 inch up sides to form crust. Bake 5 minutes. 3 Remove partially baked crust from oven. Sprinkle vanilla chips, chocolate chips, almonds and cashews evenly over crust. Pour condensed milk evenly over top. 4 Return to oven; bake 20 to 25 minutes longer or until golden brown. Cool 10 minutes. Run knife around sides of pan. Cool 1 hour. Refrigerate about 30 minutes or until chocolate is set. For bars, cut into 9 rows by
**********************************************
Asparagus-Potato Brunch Bake
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 cup sliced green onions
8 eggs
1/2 cup fat-free (skim) milk
3 cups frozen southern-style diced hash brown potatoes (from 32-oz bag), thawed
2 cups chopped lean cooked ham (1/2 lb)
1 box (9 oz) Green Giant® frozen asparagus cuts, thawed, drained
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
DIRECTIONS
1 Heat oven to 350°F. Generously spray 13x9-inch (3-quart) baking dish with cooking spray. In 8-inch skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook onions in butter 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. 2 In large bowl, mix eggs and milk until blended. Stir in cooked onions, potatoes, ham and asparagus. Pour into baking dish. Top with cheese. 3 Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until set. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
This casserole can be covered and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Uncover; bake 40 to 45 minutes or until set.
Two cartons (8 oz each) fat-free egg product (2 cups) can be substituted for the 8 eggs. One-eighth of the recipe will yield 220 calories with 8 grams of fat per serving.
**********************************************
Fresh Fruit Jam
Yields: 6-8 cups
Total Time: 40 min
Prep Time: 40 min
Ingredients
12 cup(s) prepared fresh fruit, peeled if desired (see Tips & Techniques)
1 cup(s) granulated sugar or brown sugar (see Tips & Techniques)
1/2 cup(s) water
1 "no sugar needed" pectin (see Tips & Techniques)
Directions
Combine fruit, sugar to taste, and water in a Dutch oven. Bring to a vigorous boil and crush fruit with a potato masher until desired consistency. Add pectin in a steady stream, stirring constantly. Stir until the pectin is dissolved. Bring to a full rolling boil (a boil that cannot be "stirred down"), stirring constantly. Boil, stirring, for 1 minute. Remove from the heat.
If freezing or refrigerating, ladle the jam into clean canning jars to within 1/2 inch of the rim. Wipe rims clean. Cover with lids. Let the jars stand at room temperature until set, about 24 hours, before refrigerating or freezing. Or process in a water bath to store at room temperature (see Tips & Techniques).
Carb Servings: free food. Carbohydrate Servings: 0
Tips & Techniques
How to Prep and Measure:
Berries: Remove stems; hull strawberries. Measure whole.
Cherries: Remove stems and pits; halve. Measure halves.
Peaches, nectarines, and plums: Peel if desired. Cut into 1/2-inch pieces; discard pits. Measure pieces.
Apples, pears, and other fruit: Peel if desired. Quarter, remove seeds, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Measure pieces.
To peel stone fruit, dip them in boiling water for about 1 minute to loosen their skins. Let cool slightly, then remove the skins with a paring knife.
Notes: 3/4 cup maple syrup (or honey) or 1/2 to 1 cup Splenda Granular can be used in place of 1 cup sugar. We tested Fresh Fruit Jam with "no sugar needed" pectin from Ball and Sure-Jell. We prefer this to regular pectin because you can adjust the amount of added sugar. Regular pectin cannot be used in its place because it requires more sugar to ensure a proper set. Although Sure-Jell's instructions indicate that you cannot use less sugar than called for in their recipes, we had successful results using less (as indicated in our recipes).
Tip: Processing in a boiling water bath ensures safe storage at room temperature for up to a year
**********************************************
Chicken Salad with Dried Cherries and Onions
Use leftover chicken to make this quick and delicious sandwich filling. Make sandwiches on slices of country or sourdough bread.
Serves: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
4 1/2 cups diced smoked chicken breast
1 1/2 cups diced celery
2 1/4 cups diced onions
2 1/4 cups chopped dried cherries
1 1/2 cups pecans, lightly toasted
1/2 cup minced fresh basil
2 cups mayonnaise
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
3 tablespoons refrigerated orange juice, fresh
Place all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir gently to mix. Cover and refrigerate until ready to prepare sandwiches.
**********************************************
Four Cheese-Veggie Lasagna Cups
INGREDIENTS
1 can (16.3 oz) Pillsbury® Grands!® Flaky Layers biscuits
1 bag (12 oz) Green Giant® Valley Fresh Steamers™ frozen broccoli, carrots, cauliflower & cheese sauce
3/4 cup Muir Glen® diced tomatoes with garlic & onion (from 14.5-oz can)
1/3 cup Italian-style tomato paste (from 6-oz can)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon McCormick® Parsley Flakes
1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (5 oz)
DIRECTIONS
1 Heat oven to 350°F. Separate dough into 8 biscuits. Separate 2 biscuits into 3 layers each; add 1 layer to each of remaining 6 biscuits. In ungreased jumbo muffin pan, press each biscuit on bottom and up side of muffin cup. 2 Microwave frozen vegetables as directed on bag. Pour vegetables into medium bowl; stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, salt and garlic. 3 In small bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon of the parsley. Spoon 1 rounded tablespoon ricotta mixture into each biscuit. Top each with 1 tablespoon mozzarella cheese and rounded 1/4 cup vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and parsley. 4 Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown and filling is hot. Cool in pan 5 minutes. Carefully run knife around side of cups to loosen; remove from pan. Cool 10 minutes longer before serving. Serve warm.
*******************************************
JOKES:
"You are a living magnet. What you attract into your life is in harmony
with your dominant thoughts." - Brian Tracy
THINGS TO PONDER: If you try to fail and succeed which have you done?
You might be a REDNECK if...
...the most common phrase in your house is "Somebody go jiggle the handle."
**********************************************
Biology Midterm
Students in an advanced Biology class were taking their mid-term test.
The last question was, "Name seven advantages of Mother's Milk," worth 70 points or none at all.
One student, in particular, was hard put to think of seven advantages. He wrote:
1.) It is perfect formula for the child
2.) It provides immunity against several diseases.
3.) It is always the right temperature
4.) It is inexpensive.
5.) It bonds the child to mother, and vice versa.
6.) It is always available as needed.
And then, the student was stuck. Finally, in desperation, just before the bell rang indicating the end of the test, he wrote:
7.) It comes in 2 attractive reusable containers.
He got an A+
**********************************************
Imagine if you spoke another language and had to learn English lol
You think English is easy??
1) The bandage was wound around the wound.
2) The farm was used to produce produce.
3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
4) We must polish the Polish furniture.
5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.
6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.
9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
10) I did not object to the object.
11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
13) They were too close to the door to close it.
14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.
15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.
18) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear..
19) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
20) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?
Let's face it - English is a crazy language. There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France. Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat. We take English for granted. But if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.
**********************************************
Two Blondes and a Sod Truck...
Two blondes were sipping their Starbucks when a truck
went past loaded up with rolls of sod.
"I'm going to do that when I win the lottery," announced Blonde #1.
"Do what?" asked Blonde #2.
"Send my lawn out to be mowed."
**********************************************
A Blonde's Year in Review
January
Took new scarf back to store because it was too tight.
February
Fired from pharmacy job for failing to print labels.....
Helllloooo!!!.......bottles won't fit in printer !!!
March
Got really excited.....finished jigsaw puzzle in 6 months..... Box said "2-4 years!"
April
Trapped on escalator for hours .... Power went out!!!
May
Tried to make Kool-Aid.....wrong instructions....8 cups of
Water won't fit into those little packets!!!
June
Tried to go water skiing.......couldn't find a lake with a slope.
July
Lost breast stroke swimming competition.....learned later,
The other swimmers cheated, they used their arms!!!
August
Got locked out of my car in rain storm.....
Car swamped because soft-top was open.
September
The capital of California is "C".....isn't it???
October
Hate M & M's.....they are so hard to peel.
November
Baked turkey for 4 1/2 days .. Instructions said 1 hour
Per pound and I weigh 108!!
December
Couldn't call 911 ...... "duh".....there's no "eleven"
Button on the stupid phone!!!
THE BEST BLONDE JOKE OF THE YEAR - SO FAR
A man was in his front yard mowing grass when his attractive blonde female neighbor came out of the house and went straight to the mailbox.
She opened it then slammed it shut and stormed back in the house.
A little later she came out of her house again went to the mail box and again, opened it, slammed it shut again. Angrily, back into the house she went.
As the man was getting ready to edge the lawn, here she came out again, marched to the mail box, opened it and then slammed it closed harder than ever.
Puzzled by her actions the man asked her, "Is something wrong?"
To which she replied, "There certainly is!"
(Are you ready? This is a beauty...)
My stupid computer keeps saying, "YOU'VE GOT MAIL!"
**********************************************
A nice old story with a different twist - will make you appreciate family.
My grandmother died in the 60s, but her birthday is coming up, and that always causes me to reminisce. The long walks we used to take to the store in town, the quarters she gave me for meaningless jobs like pulling weeds or washing the sidewalk...
Those gems were all good, but the one I remember most, the jewel in the crown of grandmotherly advice, occurred when I was only about 13. We were sitting in a park having just finished collecting some 40 soda bottles for the deposit money on a beautiful spring day.
She told me that, one day, I would find a wonderful woman and start my own family. 'And always remember this, she said. Be sure you marry a woman with small hands.'
'How come, Grandma?' I asked her
She answered in her soft Newfoundland voice.
'Makes your dick look bigger.'
Kinda brings a tear to your eye, doesn't it?
*******************************************
Welsh girls went to PUB
I was in a pub last night and saw two “girls of size†(as Political Correctness now requires us to say) by the bar.
They both spoke with a brogue accent, and making assumptions about their origins I said,
"Hello, are you two girls from Scotland?"
One of them screamed, "It’s WALES you f***ing idiot!"
So I immediately apologized and said,
“Sorry, are you two whales from Scotland?â€
And that's when the trouble started!
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
REMINDER FROM GOD:
"Your Time Is Limited. . ."
In October of last year the passing of Steve Jobs, founder of Apple Computers, was a shocker even though it was well known that he had battled cancer for some time. The shocker was that he was only 56.
Steve, a genius with computer technology—from the personal computer to the iPod and iPhone—had a profound impact pretty much on the entire world with his incredible computer-related inventions. He will be known among the greatest of inventors. Interesting that in 1993 he said, "Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn't matter to me…. Going to bed at night saying we've done something wonderful—that's what matters to me."1
That's certainly a worthwhile goal, but what if Steve died without knowing Christ as his Savior? All his remarkable achievements in this life would amount to nothing—even though his inventions have helped spread the Christian gospel around the world. As Jesus warned us all when he said, "What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul?"2
I heard Steve say in a TV interview that sometimes he believed in God and sometimes he didn't, but only he and God know where he is now. I surely hope he is in heaven. One word of wisdom Jobs shared when he made it known that he had cancer was this: "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life."
How true this is. Time is limited. Life is short—and we only have one shot at it. If, per chance, your time was up today, would you be prepared for life beyond the grave—to meet God?3 If not, I urge you to make that preparation right now. For help, read the article, "How to Be Sure You're a Real Christian" at: http://tinyurl.com/real-christian.
Same principle applies to Christians: "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad."4 As Christians we won't be judged for our sins because God has forgiven us for all of these because Jesus Christ, God's Son, paid the penalty for us by dying in our place on the cross. What it does mean is that we will have to give an account of our life to Jesus Christ regarding how we lived for and served God since we became a Christian.
When I stand before the judgment seat of Christ, I trust and pray that I will hear his welcoming words say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. … Enter into the joy of your lord."5 I encourage you, too, to make sure that you are living in harmony with God's will and faithfully serving him so you won't be embarrassed and disappointed when you stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you for your assurance of life after death, and that you are preparing a home in Heaven for all who trust you as their Lord and Savior. Thank you, too, for your promise of a rich reward to all who believe in you and have served you faithfully. Please help me to be certain that my name is written in your book of life so I will not be left behind when Jesus returns. And please help me to serve you faithfully in the here-and-now so that I will not be embarrassed when I stand before Jesus to give an account of my life and service to you. So help me God. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
**********************************************
WORD FOR THE DAY:
wetware
audio pronunciation
WET-wair
DEFINITION
noun
: the human brain or a human being considered especially with respect to human logical and computational capabilities
EXAMPLES
With the right wetware at the helm, the company should be able to turn a sizeable profit.
"Over the weekend, an impressive crossword-solving computer program, called Dr. Fill, which I wrote about earlier, matched its digital wits against the wetware of 600 of the nation's best human solvers at the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament in Brooklyn." — From an article by Steve Lohr in The New York Times, March 19, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?
When the computer terms "software" and "hardware" sprang to life in the mid-20th century, a surge of visions and inventions using the new technology immediately followed … along with a revival of the combining form "ware." An early coinage was "wetware," which began circuiting techie circles in the 1970s as a name for the software installed by Mother Nature (a.k.a. the brain). Other "ware" names for people and their noggins have made a blip in our language — for example, "meatware" and "liveware" — but none have become firmly established in the general lexicon like "wetware."
**********************************************
Expert Advice
Food: We all know that eating more plants is a good thing, and new recommendations suggest a daily dose of five or more vegetables a day. Since many folks can’t muster much enthusiasm for veggies other than potatoes, here are some suggestions:
• Main-dish salsa: Chop lots of fresh tomatoes and green and red peppers, then add a bit of chopped raw onion, minced garlic, and herbs and spices to taste. Serve hot or cold, topped with a few spicy black beans, cold chicken, or a wedge of cheese.
• Try roasting onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, asparagus, peppers, carrots, parsnips—if you’ve eaten these vegetables only steamed or boiled, you haven’t begun to enjoy their flavors. Roasting deepens and improves the flavor.
• Salad for breakfast? Try this: a whole sliced beet, a chopped hard-boiled egg, a serving of berries, and sliced melon or orange sections, topped with a splash of honey mustard dressing.
• Love pickles? Create a “perpetual pickles†crock for summer snacking. Partially fill a large jar or small crock with half water and half vinegar, a few peeled garlic cloves, a few sprigs of fresh dillweed, and pickling salt to taste. Add new vegetables every day or two.
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RECIPE:
Slow Cooker Peach Cobbler
PREP TIME 20 Min
TOTAL TIME 3 Hr 20 Min
SERVINGS 8
4 cups fresh or frozen sliced peeled peaches
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup Original Bisquick mix
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup milk
Ice cream or whipped cream
1 Spray 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In large bowl, gently toss peaches and 1/4 cup of the sugar. Turn into slow cooker.
2 In medium bowl, gently beat Bisquick mix, sugar and milk with whisk until blended. Pour over peaches in slow cooker.
3 Cover; cook on low heat setting 3 hours or until cobbler is set in center.
4 Serve cobbler with ice cream.
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Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
PREP TIME 20 Min
TOTAL TIME 3 Hr 20 Min
SERVINGS 8
Cake
1 box Betty Crocker SuperMoist triple chocolate fudge cake mix
1 1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
Topping
1 box (4-serving size) instant chocolate pudding and pie filling mix
2 cups milk
1 bag (12 oz) milk chocolate chips (2 cups)
1 Spray 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In large bowl, beat Cake ingredients with electric mixer as directed on cake mix box. Pour into slow cooker.
2 In medium bowl, beat pudding mix and 2 cups milk with whisk as directed on box. Pour into slow cooker over cake batter. Do not mix. Sprinkle chocolate chips over top.
3 Cover; cook on Low heat setting 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours or until cake is set and pudding is beginning to bubble out of cake.
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Slow Cooker Cranberry Ribs
Finger-licking-good ribs are flavored with a sauce that's sweet, spicy and tangy all at the same time.
PREP TIME 50 Min
TOTAL TIME 3 Hr 30 Min
SERVINGS 14
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons packed brown sugar
3 to 3 1/2 lb pork loin back ribs (about 2 racks)
1 can (16 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
1 jar (12 oz) beef gravy
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 Set oven control to broil; heat 15 minutes. Line broiler pan with foil.
2 In small bowl, mix cumin, chili powder and 2 teaspoons brown sugar. Rub evenly over racks of ribs. Place ribs on rack in broiler pan. Broil with tops 4 to 6 inches from heat 10 to 15 minutes, turning once, until browned. Cool slightly. Cut into individual ribs.
3 Place ribs in 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker. Reserve half of the cranberry sauce. In medium bowl, mix remaining cranberry sauce and remaining ingredients; pour over ribs.
4 Cover; cook on High heat setting 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours or until ribs are tender.
5 Stir in reserved cranberry sauce; stir from bottom of cooker to coat ribs with sauce. Set cooker to Low heat setting to serve. Ribs will hold on Low heat setting up to 2 hours.
Expert Tips
For smaller pieces, ask the butcher to cut the racks across the bones, especially if the ribs are longer than 3 1/2 to 4 inches. Racks of ribs will vary in size, depending on the size of the animal.
Serve with chunks of blue cheese and celery sticks.
**********************************************
Grilled Whole Chicken with Barbecue Sauce
Serves: 4 Edit
Yields: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 whole(s) (4- to 4 1/2-pound) chicken
Coarse salt
Ground pepper
1/2 cup(s) Barbecue Sauce
Directions
Set up grill for indirect grilling. Rinse chicken inside and out and dry thoroughly. Generously season inside and out with coarse salt and ground pepper. Clean and lightly oil hot grates.
Place chicken, breast side up, on opposite side of grill from heat. Cover and grill until cooked through, or a thermometer inserted in the thickest part of a thigh (avoiding bone) registers 160 degrees F, about 1 1/2 hours, rotating halfway through cooking (if using a charcoal grill, add a couple of handfuls of charcoal every half hour to maintain heat).
About 15 minutes before chicken is done, brush with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce. Let chicken rest 20 minutes before carving.
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Honeyed Blueberry Blintzes
Great breakfast dish anytime of the year. When blueberries are fresh and sweet, this is better than ever!
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Blintzes:
4 eggs
1 cup 2% lowfat milk
1/3 cup matzo meal
1/3 cup potato starch
1/4 teaspoon salt
oil, for frying
Filling:
3/4 cup honey
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup lemon juice or 1/4 cup potato starch
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
2 cups (12 ounces)fresh blueberries, or frozen, thawed
1 cup regular or low fat sour cream
To make blintzes: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, matzo meal, potato starch and salt. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Rub a small frying pan with oil; heat over medium-high heat. Add 2 tbsp. batter and tilt pan to coat pan surface evenly. Cook until surface of blintz no longer looks wet; carefully remove blintz. Repeat with remaining batter, oiling pan when necessary. Separate cooked blintzes with waxed paper and keep warm. (Blintzes may be prepared ahead of time and stored, covered, in refrigerator.)
To make filling: In a medium saucepan, combine honey, water, lemon juice, potato starch and lemon peel. Heat over medium high-heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes, or until no longer cloudy. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Stir in blueberries.
To assemble: Spoon 2 tbsp. blueberry-lemon filling on each blintz. Fold the sides toward center, then bottom up and top down. Place blintzes, seam-side down, in buttered 9- x 13-inch baking pan. Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned on underside. Alternately, saute blintzes in small amount of oil until lightly browned and heated through. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.
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Peanut Butter Chicken Skewers
This recipe is: Quick
Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
2 cups shredded red cabbage
Sliced green onion tops
Directions
In a saucepan, combine the first eight ingredients; cook and stir over medium-high heat for 5 minutes or until smooth. Reserve half of sauce. Slice chicken lengthwise into 1-in. strips; thread onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
Grill, uncovered, over medium-hot heat for 2 minutes; turn and brush with peanut butter sauce. Continue turning and basting for 4-6 minutes or until chicken juices run clear. Place cabbage on a serving plate; top with chicken. Sprinkle with onion tops. Serve with reserved sauce. Yield: 4 servings.
Nutritional Facts 1 serving (3 each) equals 386 calories, 20 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 73 mg cholesterol, 1,140 mg sodium, 17 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 38 g protein.
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Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup
INGREDIENTS
1 bag (32 oz) frozen southern-style diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
1/2 cup frozen chopped onion (from 12-oz bag), thawed
1 medium stalk celery, diced (1/2 cup)
1 carton (32-oz) Progresso® chicken broth
1 cup water
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 bag (8 oz) shredded American-Cheddar cheese blend (2 cups)
1/4 cup real bacon pieces (from 2.8-oz package)
4 medium green onions, sliced (1/4 cup)
DIRECTIONS
1 In 3- to 4-quart slow cooker, mix potatoes, onion, celery, broth and water. 2 Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 to 8 hours. 3 In small bowl, mix flour into milk; stir into potato mixture. Increase heat setting to High. Cover; cook 20 to 30 minutes or until mixture thickens. Stir in cheese until melted. Garnish individual servings with bacon and green onions. Sprinkle with pepper if desired.
Instead of using purchased bacon pieces, cook 2 strips of bacon until crisp, then drain and crumble.
Southern-style hash brown potatoes are diced instead of shredded. These work best in this recipe.
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JOKES:
Her name is Samantha and she is a 22-year-old rather dizzy blonde flying in a two-seater aircraft off the NSW south coast with just the pilot.
Tragically, he has a sudden heart attack and dies. Frantically, she grabs the radio microphone, presses every button she can see and starts shouting:
''May Day! May Day! Help me! Help me! My pilot had a heart attack and is dead. And I don't know how to fly. Help me! Please help me!''
And it works! For after just 20 seconds she hears a voice over the radio saying: ''This is Air Traffic Control Moruya, I have you loud and clear. I will talk you through this and get you back on the ground. I've been a pilot for 40 years and we can do this together. Now, take a deep breath. Everything will be fine! Give me your height and position.''
The blonde replies: ''I'm 162 centimetres and I'm in the front seat.''
''OK,'' says the voice on the radio, calmly, ''repeat after me: Our Father who art in Heaven …''
**********************************************
Bill Gates wanted to look good and impress everyone with his success. He
decided to measure the accomplishments of Microsoft against General
Motors. The comparison went like this: If automotive technology
had kept pace with computer technology over the past few decades, you
would now be driving a V-32 instead of a V-8, and it would have a top
speed of 10,000 miles per hour. Or you could have an economy car that
weighs 30 pounds and gets a thousand miles to a gallon of gas. In either
case the sticker price of a new car would be less than $50. In response to
all this goading, GM responds: "Yes, but would you really want to drive a
car that crashes twice a day?
**********************************************
An Issaquah, Wash., man apparently became frustrated with his personal computer, pulled out a gun and shot it. The computer, located in the man's home office, had four bullets holes in its hard drive and one in the monitor. Police evacuated the man's townhouse complex, contacted the irate PC owner by phone, and persuaded him to come out. "We don't know if it wouldn't boot up or what,"
says one of the police officers at the scene.
St. Petersburg Times - July 20, 1997
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Computer Eleanor Rigby
-------------
Eleanor Rigby
Sits at the keyboard
And waits for a line on the screen
Lives in a dream
Waits for a signal
Finding some code
That will make the machine do some more.
What is it for?
All the lonely users, where do they all come from?
All the lonely users, why does it take so long?
Guru MacKenzie
Typing the lines of a program that no one will run;
Isn't it fun?
Look at him working,
Munching some chips as he waits for the code to compile;
It takes a while...
All the lonely users, where do they all come from?
All the lonely users, why does it take so long?
Eleanor Rigby
Crashes the system and loses 6 hours of work;
Feels like a jerk.
Guru MacKenzie
Wiping the crumbs off the keys as he types in the code;
Nothing will load.
All the lonely users, where do they all come from?
All the lonely users, why does it take so long?
**********************************************
Why, oh why, does this happen to me?
How did I end up stuck in this tree?
The ground down below looks so far away,
That if I would fall it would take me all day
To hit the ground, with a thud and a thunk.
And knowing my luck I'd land on a skunk.
So here I will sit 'til my dying day.
Or maybe, at least, 'til that bear goes away.
**********************************************
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
REMINDER FROM GOD:
Our Daily Devotional:
Gone To Seed
John 12:24, NIV: "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds."
I remember seeing in someone's yard, grass that had grown so tall it had tassels on top. It wasn't a common sight to see. Most folks kept their yards mowed and pleasant looking. I remember someone describing the grass as having "gone to seed." In John 12:24, Jesus expressed to His disciples the purpose of His death that was soon approaching. He knew that through His death, many would find life. To Him, the cost was not too great. At times, we may wonder what it will take to bring a lost world to the saving knowledge of Jesus. Perhaps it's the same now as always--that life comes through giving up life. Perhaps it will take Christians willing to lay down their lives, their rights, and their ambitions--all for the sake of others. Perhaps then, when we let ourselves go to seed, perhaps then, new life will come.
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
- Matthew 5:4
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WORD FOR THE DAY:
instauration in-staw-REY-shuhn , noun:
1. Renewal; restoration; renovation; repair.
2. Obsolete. An act of instituting something; establishment.
Warm friendship, indeed, he felt for her; but whatever that might have done towards the instauration of a former dream was now hopelessly barred by the rivalry of the thing itself in the guise of a lineal successor.
-- Thomas Hardy, The Well-Beloved
For the first time since the instauration of the Republic of Cuba, the military caste was going to have to manage on its own.
-- Norberto Fuentes and Anna Kushner, The Autobiography of Fidel Castro
Instauration is derived from the Latin word instauration- which meant "a renewing" or "repeating".
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Interesting Facts about the Eclectus Parrot
The name says it all: Eclectus. This parrot is so
eclectic in nature that for a long time people
thought the males and the females were two
different breeds of parrots.
Sexual dimorphism – The male and the female
eclectus parrots significantly differ in
appearance that it took ornithologists many
years before realizing that they were of the
same breed.
Cullen eyes – Pardon the Twilight reference,
but the adult eclectus has yellow or orange
irises. Juveniles have normal dark brown or
black ones.
Fruitarians – In the wild, the eclectus parrot
mostly feasts on fruits. They eat other things
such as nuts, flowers and seeds, but their main
treats are pomegranates and papayas. In
captivity, the eclectus’ diet has to mimic that
of the wild, focusing on the fiber content since
the bird has an extra long digestive tract.
Spastic birds – The eclectus is prone to muscle
spasms. The suspected cause is some sort of
deficiency in the diet. This is manifested in terms
of toe tapping and wing flipping.
Chatty chirpers – The eclectus actually rivals the
African grey when it comes to its verbal and
cognitive skills. If you get one, try to teach it to
sing. Eclectus parrots supposedly love to sing.
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RECIPE:
Almond Joy Bars( with or without the almonds)
Ingredients
10 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 c light brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 c flour
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
28 oz sweetened condensed milk
28 oz shredded coconut
1 tsp vanilla extract
5 c bittersweet chocolate baking chunks (loosely placed in cup)
Notes:
This recipe is so good! Use light or dark chocolate. Use a 13x9 inch pan for a thicker recipe. Use half the recipe for a smaller group. It is simply easy. (CALL IT ALMOND JOY OR MOUNDS, either way it is good).
Directions
Preheat oven to 350° F . Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and coat with canola or vegetable spray.
NOTE: I use a 13x9 inch pan becasue I prefer them thicker. You can adjust the size of the pan to your preference. You can use 1/2 the recipe if you do not need as much.
In a small bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until combined. Add the flour and salt. Carefully mix to combine until it resembles chunky bread crumbs. Transfer into the prepared pan and evenly press the batter into an even layer. Bake for 8 minutes. Cool on a wire baking rack while preparing the coconut topping.
In a large bowl, combine the condensed milk, coconut, and vanilla. Spread over the crust and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until it begins to brown.
Melt the chocolate over a double boiler. Stir until melted and smooth. Pour over cooked coconut bars and spread into an even layer. Allow to cool then refrigerate until hardened, about 1 hour. Cut into 36 squares.
Note:Use chunks not chips (70% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Baking Chunks)Bittersweet chocolate is available in several forms, including bars, chips, and chunks of various sizes. It is used in baking, cooking, and is eaten out of hand.
NOTE" You can top with alomd joy bites, sliced almonds or leave off. Use light or dark chocolate, your preference. You can make them thin or thicker. Use a sheet pan, 13x9, I like them thicker.
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Lemon Creme Bars
Oatmeal cookie mix jump-starts the crust to a classic homemade lemon bar.
PREP TIME 10 Min
TOTAL TIME 1 Hr 20 Min
SERVINGS 25
1/2 cup cold butter
1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker oatmeal cookie mix
1 egg
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated)
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 Heat oven to 350°F. Spray bottom of 8-inch square pan with cooking spray.
2 In large bowl, cut butter into cookie mix, using fork or pastry blender. Stir in egg until mixture is crumbly. Press half of cookie mixture into bottom of pan; bake 15 minutes.
3 In small bowl, stir condensed milk, lemon peel and lemon juice until thick. Spread over baked crust. Crumble remaining cookie mixture over top. Bake about 25 minutes longer or until light golden brown. Refrigerate 30 minutes or until set. For bars, cut into 5 rows by 5 rows. Store covered in refrigerator.
Expert Tips
You'll need 2 medium lemons to get 1/4 cup juice.
Cut bars into bite-size squares and serve in mini paper cups.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best lemon flavor.
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Sunny Lemon Bars
Who would have guessed a pouch of sugar cookie mix got these bars off to a deliciously sweet start?
PREP TIME 15 Min
TOTAL TIME 2 Hr 15 Min
SERVINGS 36
Crust
1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix
1/2 cup butter or margarine (1 stick), softened
Filling
4 eggs, slightly beaten
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (1 large lemon)
Topping
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 Heat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, beat crust ingredients with electric mixer on low speed until crumbly. In bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch pan, press mixture evenly. Bake about 20 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 10 minutes.
2 Meanwhile, in same large bowl, stir together filling ingredients except lemon juice. Stir in lemon juice. Pour mixture over warm crust.
3 Bake 25 to 30 minutes longer or until top is light golden brown. Cool completely, about 1 hour. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. For bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows.
Expert Tips
After dusting with powdered sugar, sprinkle with a little colored sugar for a festive touch.
Flour hands or place a plastic sandwich bag over hand when pressing crust in pan.
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Black Pepper Chops with Molasses Butter
Try these delicious pork chops. They'll be a hit with your whole family.
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
4 boneless center loin chops, 1 ½ inch thick
¼ cup butter
1 tbsp. molasses
½ tsp. lemon juice
4 tbsp. coarsely ground Coarsely Ground Black Pepper
DIRECTIONS:
1. In small bowl blend butter, molasses and lemon juice with fork. Cover the molasses butter and refrigerate.
2. Rub chops on both sides evenly with pepper. Grill chops over a medium-hot fire for 12-15 minutes, turning once.
3. Top each chop with a tablespoon of molasses butter.
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Onion Chicken Nuggets
Create a tasty sensation by breading your own nuggets and offer a delicious option for your family and friends.
Serves: 10 as an appetizer, 6 as a main dish
Prep. time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
1 envelope (about 1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
2/3 cup dry bread crumbs
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
1 egg or 2 egg whites
2 tbsp. water
12 boneless chicken thighs (about 1 1/2 lbs.) cut into 1-inch pieces or 6 boneless chicken breast halves
butter
Heat the oven to 400°F.
Crush the soup mix in the envelope with a rolling pin. Stir the soup mix, bread crumbs and black pepper on a plate.
Beat the egg and water in a shallow dish with a fork or whisk. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture. Coat with the crumb mixture. Place the chicken onto a baking sheet. Drizzle with the butter, if desired.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Tip: This recipe makes 6 main dish servings.
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Iced Coffee Frappe
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 2 mins
Total Time: 2 mins
Ingredients:
1 cup coffee, brewed strong, then cooled
1/2 cup cream
1 tablespoon light chocolate syrup
2 tablespoons sugar substitute (recipe gives sucralose-based)
1 cup ice cube
Directions:
1 Combine all ingredients in a blender & process for about 30 seconds or until smooth.
2 Pour into 2 glasses & enjoy.
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JOKES:
THINGS TO PONDER: Have you ever imagined a world with no hypothetical situations?
"We first make our habits, and then our habits make us." - John Dryden
You might be a REDNECK if...
...the gas pedal on your car is shaped like a bare foot.
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A drill instructor at Airborne school was lecturing a group
of new troops on making a proper jump. He told them:
"When I yell Stand Up, you Stand Up. When I yell hook up,
you hook up. When you go out the door, yell 'Geronimo!' and
wait for your shoot to open. Got It? Good, get in the plane."
After a short flight he yelled "Stand UP! Hook UP!" and began
shoving the troops out the door. Just after the last trooper
exited, the sergeant shut the door. Suddenly, he heard someone
knocking on the door. He opened it to see a private flapping
his arms trying to imitate a seagull. The private looked him
in the eye and asked What did you say that SOB's name was?
**********************************************
"May I take your order?" the waiter asked.
"Yes, how do you prepare your chickens?"
"Nothing special sir," he replied. "We just
tell them straight out that they're going to die."
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What the best way to get a guy to stop smoking after sex?
Fill his water bed with gasoline.
**********************************************
This blonde goes into the drugstore looking for a birthday card. She asks the clerk if they have any new and different cards -- something unusual. The clerk points her to a new card just in that day -- "Happy Birthday to the Boy who Popped My Cherry."
The blonde replied, "How cool! I'll take the whole box!"
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Actual Police Accounts
The woman in question, a cute blonde as it happens, was pulled over for
speeding by a California Highway Patrol motorcycle officer. When he walked
up to her window and opened his ticket book she said: "I bet you're going
to sell me a ticket to the Highway Patrolmen's Ball." He replied, "No,
highway patrolmen don't have balls."
There followed a moment of silence while she smiled and he realized what
he'd said. He then closed his book, got back on his motorcycle and left.
She was laughing too hard to start her car for several minutes.
*******************************************
New paint store just opened up by my place, so I decided as any
red-blooded, sexually repressed young lad to pay it a visit. When I went
in I saw signs all over advertising the newest color: "Natural Blonde".
There weren't any samples around, so I asked the clerk to describe it to
me. He replied, "Natural Blonde? Wonderful new paint: not too bright, but
spreads easily!"
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Unix Man -- by Beatles
--------
He's a real UNIX Man
Sitting in his UNIX LAN
Making all his UNIX .plans
For nobody.
Knows the blocksize from du(1)
Cares not where /dev/null goes to
Isn't he a bit like you
And me?
UNIX Man, please listen(2)
My lpd(8) is missin'
UNIX Man
The wo-o-o-orld is at(1) your command.
He's as wise as he can be
Uses lex and yacc and C
UNIX Man, can you help me
At all?
UNIX Man, don't worry
Test with time(1), don't hurry
UNIX Man
The new kernel boots, just like you had planned.
He's a real UNIX Man
Sitting in his UNIX LAN
Making all his UNIX .plans
For nobody ...
Making all his UNIX .plans
For nobody.
*******************************************************
Cucumbers - very interesting
I didn't know this...
WOW! WHAT A LITTLE GEM THE CUCUMBER IS.
I WILL LOOK AT IT DIFFERENTLY NOW.
1.Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need Every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin
B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron,
Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.
2.Feeling tired in the afternoon, put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a
cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B vitamins and carbohydrates that can provide that
quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.
3.Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will
eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.
4. Are grubs and Slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will
be free of pests all season long. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminium to give
off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the
area.
5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool?
Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes,
the phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing
the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles, too!
6. Want to avoid a hangover or a terrible headache? Eat a few cucumber slices
before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B
vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients the body lost, keeping everything in
equilibrium, avoiding both a hangover and headache!!
7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge? Cucumbers have been used for centuries and
often used by European trappers, traders and explorers for quick meals to thwart off starvation.
8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don't have enough time to
polish your shoes? Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick
and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water.
9. Out of WD 40 and need to fix a squeaky hinge? Take a Cucumber slice and rub it along
the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!
10.Stressed out and don't have time for massage, facial or visit to the spa? Cut up an entire Cucumber and
place it in a boiling pot of water, The chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber with react with the boiling water and be
released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has been shown to reduce
stress in new mothers and college students during final exams.
11. Just finish a Business lunch and realize you don't have gum or mints? Take a slice of cucumber and press it to
the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath.
the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.
12. Looking for a 'green' way to clean your faucets, sinks or stainless steel? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the
surface you want to clean. Not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the Shine, but it won't
leave streaks and won't harm your fingers or fingernails while you clean.
13. Using a Pen and made a mistake? Take the outside of the Cucumber and slowly use it to erase the pen writing.
Also works great on crayons and markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!!
Pass this along to everybody you know who is looking for better and safer ways to solve life's everyday problems.
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
Lesser known truths about Fourth of July
By Vera H-C Chan
A divided nation? How very American of us.
As we commemorate the 236th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence, revisiting our history helps remind us how far we've come — and just what still makes up the American character. For one thing, not all the 18th-century colonialists were keen on this whole independence thing: A good half-million were Loyalists to the British crown, and hung on to their royal connections in places like New York City, Long Island, and northern Georgia through the 1780s.
The Fourth of July is also a good time to give credit where credit's due, stamp out a few myths, and find out lesser-known truths that are even juicier than the folklore.
Neglected forefather? No argument -- founding fathers Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams have name recognition (it helps that two became president). Lost in historical footnotes are the remaining members of the so-called Committee of Five in charge of drafting the Declaration: Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. And, even more neglected, is the man who first proposed the motion for a breakout from Britain.
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia was the classical yeoman farmer and a justice of the peace. The Virginia-born aristocrat benefited from an English private school education. At first an "indifferent figure," he later rose to the radical occasion and became an admired orator who, according to Patrick Henry, "reasoned well, and declaimed freely and splendidly" with a "deep and melodious" voice. At the second Continental Congress, he put forth the motion to cut maternal ties with Britain.
"That these united colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British crown; and that all political connexion between them and the state of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved... Let this happy day give birth to an American republic." ("Lives of the Signers to the Declaration of Independence," 1856, via Colonial Hall)
As it was his proposal, Lee would have been chair of the Committee of Five and its likely scribe, but his wife's illness called him away. His sub: Jefferson.
[Related: Hubble Telescope sees celestial fireworks for Fourth of July]
Forget firecrackers -- let's burn some effigies: Pyrotechnics and pies are nice, but real Independence Day sticklers would fire off some muskets, burn some effigies of English royalty (sorry, Kate and William fans), ration out some rum, and declare war on England. Over the last 236 years, Americans have found extravagant ways to celebrate (many details courtesy of James R. Heintze, Librarian Emeritus of American University and author of "The Fourth of July Encyclopedia"):
—Pequoad Indians did a "wardance at their wigwam" in 1831 Virginia.
—Teetotalers threw a "Grand Total Abstinence Celebration" to commemorate temperance in 1842.
—An all-time record of 10,471 flags flew over the nation's capital for the 1976 Bicentennial.
—The shuttle Columbia unfurled the flag in space in 1992, but NASA outdid that in 2005 by deliberately crashing spacecraft Deep Impact into a comet.
—"The Star-Spangled Banner" is the acknowledged go-to tune but, as the Houston Chronicle points out, Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" has become part of the musical salute. The ditty is actually about Russian forces vanquishing over Napoleon's at the Battle of Borodino. Credit the esteemed Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops for making the overture an adopted American anthem in their 1974 televised concert. Who's going to say no to 16 cannon blasts?
[Related: World's largest free-flying flag to soar over New Jersey]
The occasion to fight for rights: Independence Day took on new meaning during the abolitionist fight: New York emancipated its slaves in 1827. Twenty-five years later, Frederick Douglass delivered his speech, "What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?" In 1876, the 100th anniversary, the likes of Susan B. Anthony read the Declaration of Rights for Women at the Centennial Celebration.
During World War I, celebrations took on an international theme: In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson spoke of an "international Fourth of July celebration" and in New York, 40 nationalities were represented in the "pageant parade." That same year, about 100 ships launched to help Allied forces. Other fights for rights included the 1989 flag faceoffs, as Americans protested the Bush administration's proposal to ban flag burning.
[Related: The Story of John Hancock's Signature]
Off by two days? Not that we Americans didn't wait for a government resolution as a reason to party since 1776. John Adams sent a letter to his wife extolling the "great anniversary Festival" that generations would celebrate with "Pomp and Parade...Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other." Except he had July 2 in mind, the date when the Continental Congress approved Lee's resolution. (And this year, July 2 would've fallen on a Monday and we wouldn't have all this should-we-take-a-vacation dithering.)
Other Fourth of July myths and truths:
— King George III did not write on July 4, 1776: "Dear Diary, Nothing of importance happened today."
—Adams and Jefferson did die July 4, 1826, the Declaration's 50th anniversary. James Monroe died on July 4, 1831, and Calvin Coolidge was born July 4, 1872.
—Paperwork took a lot longer in those days: The Declaration's signing didn't begin until August 2 and finished sometime in November.
—No, Nicolas Cage didn't find a map on the back of the Declaration of Independence, because if he did, he could pay off his debts and go back to doing good movies. The only thing on the back of the parchment is "Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776." There are, however, 26 copies (aka Dunlap broadsides) that do exist — all publicly owned saved one.
—Okay, if you really want a conspiracy coda, how's this: The Declaration's signatures are signed according to geography.
"John Hancock, the President of the Congress, was the first to sign the sheet of parchment measuring 24¼ by 29¾ inches. He used a bold signature centered below the text. In accordance with prevailing custom, the other delegates began to sign at the right below the text, their signatures arranged according to the geographic location of the states they represented. New Hampshire, the northernmost state, began the list, and Georgia, the southernmost, ended it." (National Archives)
Tags: 4th of July, Independence Day
im sorry to inform you Grammys Bulletin has been temporilarly suspended for now. granny fell last Sunday nie and fractured her right wrist severely. she is to be operated on Friday and hopefully she will be bCK TO YOU GOOD PEOPLE soon this is her nephew she asked i inform her readers i am sure she wll enjoy cards n notes from her friends here
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
REMINDER FROM GOD:
Discovering the Will of God for Your Life
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."1
A person asks, "I am always wondering if I am doing God's will. How can I know if I am going in the direction God wants me to go?"
The will of God has two aspects. First, as committed followers of Jesus Christ it involves our manner of living; that is, are all our actions in harmony with the will of God, the standards of which are clearly spelled out in the Bible, the Word of God. And as today's Scripture points out, this involves living a life of purity; not allowing our life to be shaped by the attitudes and behaviors of those who have no regard for the ways of God; and always disciplining our thinking; for what the mind dwells on the body acts on.
Second, the will of God also includes how we serve God; that is, we need to know what our gifts and talents are; get the best training we can to sharpen these gifts and talents; and use these in a practical way to help others—keeping in mind that we serve God by serving and helping others, and communicating his love and message of salvation to them.
Another person asks, "As the Apostle Paul was called of God to be an apostle,2 how would I know if God wants me to serve him as a teaching or medical missionary, a pastor, a chaplain or other form of what is commonly called "fulltime" Christian ministry? As a young man I struggled with this question for several years. The advice I received from my pastor didn't help. He told me, "If God is calling you into fulltime ministry, you better get into it. If he isn't calling you, you'd better keep out of it." The most helpful piece of advice I received was from Oswald Chambers in his book, My Utmost for His Highest. Chambers wrote, "The call of God is like the call of the sea to the sailor. Only he who has the nature of the sea within can hear that call." That is, a person who is "born or called" to be a sailor will never rest until he launches out to sea. It's the same with the call of God. If God is calling you to Christian service (which doesn't have to be fulltime), you will never rest until you launch or step out to do what God has put into your heart to do. I can personally verify this statement.
Furthermore, doing God's will—overall—is doing that which we find fulfilling. As Jesus said, I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart."3
Furthermore, every morning I pray and commit and trust my life and way to God and trust him to guide me in the way that he would have me go. I've been doing this from my youth and, as I look back, I can see clearly how God has led me—even through my down times. I encourage you to also commit and trust your life and way to God every morning and God will lead you too.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that you have a plan and purpose for my life and are calling me to do what you have gifted me to do. Help me to know what my gifts are, get the training I need to sharpen these gifts, and consistently use these to serve you by ministering in some way to others. I commit and trust my life and way to you and trust you to guide me in the way that you would have me to go. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name, amen."
1. Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV).
2. Romans 1:1 (KJV).
3. Psalm 40:8 (NKJV).
**********************************************
WORD FOR THE DAY:
verjuice • VER-jooss • noun
: the sour juice of crab apples or of unripe fruit; also : an acid liquor made from verjuice
Examples:
"The other women took to their Bibles and hymn-books, and looked as sour as verjuice over their reading — a result, which I have observed, in my sphere of life, to follow generally on the performance of acts of piety at unaccustomed periods of the day." — From Wilkie Collins' 1868 novel The Moonstone
"Winter oregano makes a superb salad green, used lavishly with black olives, thinly sliced red onions, soaked in ice water for an hour if you want to remove some pungency, and dressed with olive oil and a touch of vinegar, salt and lemon juice, verjuice or vinegar." — From an article in the Canberra Times (Australia), May 6, 2012
Did you know?
These days, verjuice is typically a tart, pale juice pressed from unripe white grapes, ideal for use in sauces and salad dressings. Verjuice has been around for centuries and is used in Dijon mustard, but the word (a descendant of Anglo-French "vert," meaning "green," and "jous," meaning "juice") has become somewhat uncommon — especially in American English — since its heyday in the early 19th century. (It's a bit more common in Australia.) In the past "verjuice" was also used with the meaning "acidity of disposition or manner" — a meaning hinted at in our first quote — but that sense is now only rarely encountered.
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RECIPE:
Flourless Honey-Almond Cake
Active Time: 20 Minutes
Total Time: 2 Hours
Yield: 10 servings
Honey and almonds flavor this simple (and gluten-free) cake. It’s lovely for afternoon tea or a spring holiday dessert. Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites—they should be white and very foamy, but not at all stiff or able to hold peaks. If you beat them too much, the cake may sink in the middle as it cools.
Make Ahead Tip: Store the cooled cake airtight at room temperature for up to 1 day. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with almonds just before serving. | Equipment: 9-inch springform pan, parchment paper
INGREDIENTS
For Cake:
1 1/2 cups whole almonds, toasted (see Tip)
4 large eggs, at room temperature (see Tip), separated
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
For Topping:
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted (see Tip)
: To toast whole almonds, spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F, stirring once, until fragrant, 7 to 9 minutes. To toast sliced almonds, cook in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned, 2 to 4 minutes.
Note: Eggs must be at room temperature for the proteins to unwind enough to support the cake’s crumb. Either set the eggs out on the counter for 15 minutes or submerge them in their shells in a bowl of lukewarm (not hot) water for 5 minutes before using.
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper and spray the paper.
Process whole almonds in a food processor or blender until finely ground (you will have about 13/4 cups ground). Beat 4 egg yolks, 1/2 cup honey, vanilla, baking soda and salt in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer (or use a paddle attachment on a stand mixer) on medium speed until well combined. Add the ground almonds and beat on low until combined.
Beat 4 egg whites in another large bowl with the electric mixer (use clean beaters on a hand-held mixer or the whisk attachment on a stand mixer) on medium speed until very foamy, white and doubled in volume, but not stiff enough to hold peaks, 1 to 2 minutes (depending on the type of mixer). Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the egg whites into the nut mixture until just combined. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake the cake until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, about 28 minutes. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan and gently remove the side ring. Let cool completely.
If desired, remove the cake from the pan bottom by gently sliding a large, wide spatula between the cake and the parchment paper. Carefully transfer the cake to a serving platter. To serve, drizzle the top of the cake with honey and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
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Mild Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
Sour cream and Cheddar set a smooth tone for these basic enchiladas baked with tomatoes.
Servings: 8
Ingredients
2 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat
1/4 cup chopped onion
4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
8 (8 inch) flour tortillas
1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup black olives
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken, onion, 1 cup Cheddar cheese, and 3/4 cup sour cream.
Disperse the mixture evenly among the 8 tortillas. Roll into enchiladas, and arrange in single layer in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a saucepan over low heat, melt together the remaining Cheddar cheese and sour cream. Pour over the enchiladas, and top with tomatoes and olives.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
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Grilled Roadside Whole Chicken
Yield: Serves 4
Slow-grilling in Mexico is done directly over a bed of hardwood charcoal that’s quite a distance from the chicken; we can achieve a similar result by heating only part of a gas grill or by banking live coals to the sides. A good number of Mexican chicken grillers are rotisserie jockeys, so if you’re an aficionado of the rotisserie attachment for your grill, you’re in good company.
INGREDIENTS
For the Marinade:
1 1/2 tablespoons ground ancho chile powder (available from national companies such as McCormick, Mexican groceries and internet sites)
1 teaspoon dried oregano, preferably Mexican
A big pinch of ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, preferably Mexican canela
2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped or crushed through a garlic press
3 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider vinegar gives a Mexican flavor)
1/4 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon salt, plus a little more for the onions
1 large (3-pound) chicken (what some butchers call a large frying chicken, others call a small roasting chicken)
A little vegetable or olive oil for brushing the onions
2 large bunches green onions, preferably the ones with large (1-inch) white bulbs at the end (these "knob" onions are available at Mexican markets and many farmer’s markets), roots and wilted outer leaves removed
About 1 cup Roasted Tomatillo salsa, for serving
In a small bowl, mix together all the marinade ingredients.
DIRECTIONS
Heat one side of a gas grill to medium. If you have a grill with three burners, heat the outer two to medium, leaving the center one off. Or light a charcoal fire and let it burn until the charcoal is covered with white ash and about medium-hot; bank half the coals to one side of the grill, half to the other.
While the grill is heating, remove the giblets (if there are any) from the cavity of the chicken. Flip the chicken onto its breast. Using poultry shears, cut down both sides of the backbone from tail to neck; discard backbone. Or, if you don’t have shears, lay the bird on its back, insert a long heavy knife into the body cavity and press down hard with a rocking motion to cut down through both sides of the backbone. Open the bird out onto your work surface, breast side up. Make sure that the legs are turned inward. Using your fist or a mallet, wallop the bird on the breast, hard enough to dislodge the center bones and flatten out the breast. Twist the last joint of the wings up over the breast and then down behind the “shoulders,†tucking them in firmly to keep them in place during grilling.
Smear both sides of the chicken with the marinade. Lay in the center of the grill (it will not be over direct heat). Cook, without turning, basting from time to time with any remaining marinade, until the juices run clear when a thigh is pierced deeply with a fork (an instant-read thermometer should register about 160 degrees F when inserted at the thickest part of the thigh), about 45 minutes. If you’re cooking over charcoal, you’ll want to add more charcoal to the fire after half an hour or so—the internal temperature of the grill should stay at about 325 degrees F.
About 10 minutes before the chicken is ready, brush or spray the green onions with oil and sprinkle with salt. Grill directly over the fire, turning frequently, until tender and browned.
Remove the chicken to a cutting board. It will lose less juice if you cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
Cut the chicken into quarters (or smaller pieces). Transfer a portion to each of four dinner plates. Top with the grilled onions, and you’re ready to serve. Pass the salsa separately.
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Walnut Baked Mini Filo Tartlets
Yield: Serves 15
Wondering how to wow your guest? Start with these stunning tartlets! Made with Mirabo walnut cheese and your favorite fruit spread, they promise to unite any appetite!
INGREDIENTS
1 package pre-baked mini filo tartlet shells (15 count)
2 tablespoon Wild Oats Organic Raspberry, Blueberry, Fig, or Apricot Spreadable Fruit
4 ounces Mirabo walnut cheese, rind removed
DIRECTIONS
Place approximately 1/2 teaspoon jam in the bottom of each filo tartlet shell. Top with approximately 1 teaspoon cheese over the jam in each shell.
Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F. and bake for 3 to 5 minutes or until cheese is just melted.
Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy.
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Big Blueberry Muffins
Active Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 45 Minutes
Yield: Makes 12
INGREDIENTS
nonstick vegetable oil spray
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground mace
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh or frozen, unthawed, blueberries
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place 12 round mousse rings on large heavy flat baking sheet and spray insides with nonstick spray. Using electric stand mixer, blend flour, sugar, butter and salt in large bowl until mixture resembles fine meal. Reserve 1/2 cup of mixture in small bowl. Add baking powder, baking soda and mace to remaining flour mixture in large bowl. Whisk buttermilk, eggs and vanilla to blend in medium bowl. Gradually beat into flour mixture. Carefully and evenly fold in blueberries. Divide batter evenly among prepared rings. Sprinkle streusel over tops of muffins.
Bake until golden brown and tester inserted in center comes out clean, about 25 minutes for fresh berries and 35 minutes for frozen. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet.
Using spatula, carefully transfer muffins to rack and cool until warm. Starting at bottom, run small, sharp knife around edge of muffin to loosen and remove ring.
DO-AHEAD: Muffins can be made 2 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature. Rewarm in 275 degrees F oven for 10 minutes, if desired.
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JOKES:
HOLY EMAIL
One day God was looking down at earth and saw all of the rascally behavior that was going on.. So He called one of His angels and sent the angel to earth for a time.
When he returned, he told God, 'Yes, it is bad on earth; 95% are misbehaving and only 5% are not.
God thought for a moment and said, 'Maybe I had better send down a second angel to get another opinion.'
So God called another angel and sent him to earth for a time. When the angel returned he went to God and said, 'Yes, it's true. The earth is in decline; 95% are misbehaving, but 5% are being good..'
God was not pleased. So He decided to e-mail the 5% who were good, because he wanted to encourage them, and give them a little something to help them keep going.
Do you know what the e-mail said?
Okay, I was just wondering, because I didn't get one either.
**********************************************
John Smith started the day early having set his alarm clock
(MADE IN JAPAN )
for 6 am.
While his coffeepot
(MADE IN CHINA)
was perking, he shaved with his
electric razor
(MADE IN HONG KONG)
He put on a
dress shirt
(MADE IN SRI LANKA),
designer jeans
(MADE IN SINGAPORE)
and
tennis shoes
(MADE IN KOREA)
After cooking his breakfast in his new
electric skillet
(MADE IN INDIA)
he sat down with his
calculator
(MADE IN MEXICO)
to see how much he could spend today. After setting his
watch
(MADE IN TAIWAN )
to the radio
(MADE IN INDIA )
he got in his car
(MADE IN GERMANY )
filled it with GAS
(from Saudi Arabia )
and continued his search
for a good paying AUSTRALIAN JOB.
At the end of yet another discouraging
and fruitless day
checking his
Computer
( made in MALAYSIA ),
John decided to relax for a while.
He put on his sandals
(MADE IN BRAZIL ),
poured himself a glass of
wine
(MADE IN FRANCE )
and turned on his
TV
(MADE IN INDONESIA ),
and then wondered why he can't
find a good paying job
in AUSTRALIA
AND NOW HE'S HOPING HE CAN GET HELP FROM THE GOVERNMENT WHO ARE GOING TO CREATE EVEN MORE JOBS OVERSEAS WITH A CARBON TAX DESIGNED TO DESTROY EVEN MORE AUSTRALIAN JOBS BECAUSE ITS IN THE NATIONAL INTEREST
LEAD BY A PRIME MINISTER MADE IN WALES
**********************************************
A woman asks her husband, 'Would you like some bacon and eggs? A slice of toast and maybe some grapefruit and coffee?'??
He declines. 'Thanks for asking, but I'm not hungry right now. It's this Viagra,' he says. 'It's really taken the edge off my appetite.'??
At lunchtime she asked if he would like something. 'A bowl of soup, homemade muffins, or a cheese sandwich?'
He declines. 'The Viagra,' he says, 'really trashes my desire for food..'
Come dinner time, she asks if he wants anything to eat. 'would you like a juicy rib-eye steak and scrumptious apple pie? Or maybe a rotisserie chicken or tasty stir fry?'??
He declines again. 'No,' he says, 'it's got to be the Viagra... I'm still not hungry.'
'Well,' she says, 'Would you mind letting me up? I'm starving!
**********************************************
Three boys are in the school yard bragging about their fathers. The first boy says, 'My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a poem, they give him $50.'
The second boy says, 'That's nothing. My Dad scribbles a few words on piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him $100.'
The third boy says, 'I got you both beat. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon, and it takes eight people to collect all the money!'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
An elderly woman died last month. Having never married , she requested no male pallbearers. In her handwritten instructions for her memorial service, she wrote, 'They wouldn't take me out while I was alive, I don't want them to take me out when I'm dead.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
A police recruit was asked during the exam, 'What would you do if you had to arrest your own mother?' He answered, 'Call for backup.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Sunday School teacher asked her class why Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to Jerusalem . A small child replied, 'They couldn't get a baby-sitter.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds. After explaining the commandment to 'Honor thy father and thy mother,' she asked, 'Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?' Without missing a beat, one little boy answered, 'Thou shall not kill.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
At Sunday School they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings. Little Johnny seemed especially intent when they told him how Eve was created out of one of Adam's ribs.
Later in the week his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and she said, 'Johnny, what is the matter?' Little Johnny responded, 'I have pain in my side. I think I'm going to have a wife.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Two boys were walking home from Sunday school after hearing a strong preaching on the devil. One said to the other, 'What do you think about all this Satan stuff?'
The other boy replied, 'Well, you know how Santa Claus turned out. It's probably just your Dad.'
~~~~~~~~~~~~
You don't stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing! Take heed and pass these along to people who need a laugh. I thought you would enjoy this....times are tough right now...for all of us...so we need something to make the day a happy place. "They" haven't found a way to tax you for laughing yet.
Tags: Religion, Recipes, Tidbits, Jokes,
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