Real Enjoyment From Christmas Should Come From Families, Not Gifts

So Christmas is over! Most of us are exhausted by now. In fact, most are probably still asleep as I write this blog entry.

Yes, my daughter is still sound asleep. Our Christmas was a little different this year because my husband is not working. However, that being said we made the best of it, and had a wonderful Christmas despite a lot of disappointments we have faced over the last 9 months.

We are all healthy and though that's said a lot, it truly is the thing we should be most thankful for.

This Christmas I had a little more time to reflect, especially on what is important in my life --which is my family. We are close and we are strong.

The other day, I listened to a little audio cassette tape recorded on my grandmother's birthday back in the late '60s. I heard my dad's voice and that of many of the others in my family who have passed on. My dad, grandparents, and two uncles are all deceased, but they live on in this tape. All of us kids were quite small, but as I listened to this tape I realized where my family values came from.

My family values came from many generations of people who did without many monetary things. What was important to them and what should be important to everyone today is a strong family. It's not what is under the tree, but who is around the tree.


My husband Greg and daughter Nicole on Christmas Day


Gifts come and go. Toys break. Clothes you receive wear out. However, a strong family will always endure. They may be beaten down at times, but if you stay united and strong nothing can destroy that.


Who's the REAL reindeer?

So even though we didn't receive many monetary gifts this year, the best gift I received yesterday was my family's laughter. We were together and happy. No amount of presents or money can replace that feeling.

Patch enjoying his Christmas as only he can!

So I thank my parents and grandparents who lived through the Great Depression. They had nothing monetarily, but they had love and family.

My mom, Nicole, and me

My family is what gets me through life. My family is what keeps me going. All our families should be the most important people in our lives.

It's not the things we have in our lives, but the people we have in our lives. This extends to many friends who are not only friends, but an extension of my family. We all need each other to talk to and get thru the tough times.

I don't want to get too religious, but I believe that is the message Jesus came to Earth with. It was for peace on Earth, and that all begins with your family. Peace begins at home and that peace will be passed along to others.

So let's all be thankful for the people in our lives -- not the gifts we received. Because the gifts will fade, but family is always there.

May 2008 bring peace and happiness to your family!

Rolled Sugar Cookies Can Be Made During Any Holiday Time

I love simple cookie recipes, and this is truly one of the simplest I make by far.

This next recipe is a basic sugar cookie. What's also great about it is it's a rolled cookie so you can make fun shapes with Christmas cookie cutters. Actually this cookie recipe can be used for any holiday by simply changing the cookie cutters for that particular holiday.

ROLLED SUGAR COOKIES



2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/3 cup shortening
1/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
Additional sugar (colored decors, etc.)

Oven 375 degrees

Stir together flour, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Beat butter and shortening for 30 seconds; add sugar and beat till fluffy. Add egg, milk, and vanilla, beat well.

Add dry ingredients to beaten mixture, beating till well combined.

Cover and chill at least 3 hours.

Working with 1/2 of the dough at a time, on a lightly floured surface roll to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Sprinkle with additional sugar or decorate.

Bake in 375 degree oven for 8 minutes or till done.

Makes 36-48 cookies.

This is a great cookie recipe to get the whole family involved with. You can sit and talk while you decorate cookies. What fun!

Making cookies is a great way to keep a family close during the busiest holiday season of the year. It also gets everyone into the Christmas spirit.

Merry Christmas!!

Today's Christmas Cookie A Wonderful Blend Of Chocolate, Cherries, And Oatmeal

If you like chocolate, cherries, and oatmeal cookies, this next cookie recipe will be one of your family favorites.

I tried this cookie several years ago and my family just loved them. I also have given away many cookie trays and bags over the years. This cookie, along with the snowball cookie recipe I put on my blog a few days ago, has been one of everyone's favorites.

CHERRY CHOCO CHUNK COOKIES




2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/3 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups uncooked quick-cooking or old-fashioned oats
3 ounces white baking bar or white chocolate candy bar, cut 1/4-inch pieces
1/2 cup candied cherries

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt; set aside.

Beat butter and BOTH sugars in large bowl with electric mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy. Beat in milk, egg, and vanilla, scraping down side of bowl once. Gradually add flour mixture. Stir in oats until well blended. Stir in baking bar pieces and cherries. Drop heaping teaspoonfuls of dough, 2 inches apart, onto greased cookie sheets.

Bake 10 minutes or until set. Let stand on cookie sheets 1 minute. Remove cookies to wire racks. Cool completely.

Makes about 3 dozen cookies

I know you are going to enjoy this cookie, especially if you love chocolate.

Happy Holidays!

Christmas Cookie Week Continues: Cream Cheese Cutouts

What's more fun than baking cookies with your kids? Especially this time of year with the snow on the ground.

Baking Christmas cookies with your kids will keep them entertained and away from the TV and video games.

Christmas is a time for family and togetherness. With all the hustle and bustle that December brings we can forget to spend quality time with our kids. Making cookies is one way to be together and just have fun!

Here is a delicious cookie that is sure to make fun memories for you and your kids. So get out the cookie cutters!

CREAM CHEESE CUTOUT COOKIES



1 cup butter, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 1/2 cps all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Almond Frosting (recipe follows)
Assorted candies for decoration

In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until well combined. Add sugar; beat until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla and almond extract; beat well.

In a small bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Add dry ingredients to cream cheeese mixture; beat until well mixed. Divide dough in half. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap; refrigerate about 1 1/2 hours.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Roll out dough, half at a time, to 1/8-inch thickness on lightly floured surface. Cut out with cookie cutters. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. Frost cookies with Almond Frosting; decorate with assorted candies, nuts, etc.


ALMOND FROSTING

In a small bowl, beat 2 cups sifted powdered sugar,2 tablespoons softened butter and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract until smooth.

For piping consistency, beat in 4 or 5 teaspoons milk.

For spreading consistency, add a little more milk. If desired, tint with food coloring.

* Make sure to always use a completely cooled cookie sheet before you go onto the next batch of cookies. If the cookie sheet is warm they will not bake as evenly.


This cookie recipe is fun because after the cookies are baked and cooled everyone can decorate them together.

So put on the Christmas music and get into the real spirit of Christmas, which is home, family, and being thankful to God for both.

Have fun and make time for your family, especially during the holiday season!

Cookies, Other Baked Goods Make Wonderful Holiday Gifts

Yes, this is surely the busiest time of the year. For me that usually means a whole bunch of cooking and baking on top of Christmas shopping.

I am always happy to share my recipes. Especially ones I have had much success with. So look for a new cookie recipe each day! It's my little way to say Merry Christmas!!

My daughter Nicole and I love to bake Christmas cookies. We really don't eat many of them, but we do love to bake them.

Cookies are a great gift to give, and, I might add, a very tasty one. I love all the little festive bags you can buy to put your baked goods in. What also make a nice presentation are the cute little Chrismas plates you can purchase at the dollar stores. Wrap with some colorful cling wrap, fasten with a piece of ribbon and add a little bow. PERFECT!!


Holiday gift bags

Cookies are fantastic to give that special neighbor, friend, or teacher. It's something special from you and it will mean more than a store bought gift.

With the economy being so bad, and money being so tight, why not a special bag or plate of baked goods to show you are thinking of them?

What's wrong with an old fashioned Christmas? Why does everything have to be store bought?

Here is one of the Eno Family's favorite cookie recipes. They are called Snowballs and are absolutely delicious:

SNOWBALLS

1/2 Cup Confectioners 10-X Sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup pecans
Additional Confectioners 10-X Sugar

In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar. salt and butter; mix well. Add vanilla. Gradually stir in flour. Work nuts into dough. Cover and chill until firm.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Form dough into 1-inch balls. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes or until set, but not brown. Roll in additional sugar immediately. Cool on wire racks. Roll in sugar again. Store in airtight container.

Makes about 5 dozen cookies

What can be more special than a plate or bag of homemade baked goods sent with love?

Give it a try! I guarantee it will mean more than a store bought gift.

MERRY BAKING!!!!

Be Thankful For Whatever You May Have: Health, JOBS, Etc.

My blog has taken many twists and turns. For the past several days I have been just slamming the Bush administration, Congress, and everyone else in between.

This blog has given me a voice, although some people may not agree with everything I say. It has relieved some frustration for me and I hope for others. For that I am thankful.

As we approach Christmas and with my husband still without full-time employment it will be a dismal time for my family. However, that being said I am a person who will persevere no matter what obstacles have been thrown in my way.

My husband and I will never give up hope or stop looking for employment because our child is counting on us and we are not going to let her down.

Even though we won't have Christmas presents this year, I am determined to make my daughter's Christmas a happy one. I have been focusing on maybe just baking a few cookies. Trying to focus on being thankful that I have a family and everyone is healthy.

I write this not for pity, but because this is what this economy has done to many families in the state of Michigan, as well as other places in our country. Yet the government has sat by and done absolutely nothing.

My husband and I are both educated and all we want are jobs that will allow us to survive and support our family. However, that seems to be too much to ask for right now. The job market is terrible and we simply cannot find a job in the state of Michigan.

My husband and I sat down at the kitchen table this morning and are seriously thinking of trying to get work outside of Michigan. We were born here (in Michigan) and so was our daughter, but we need to be able to survive. Leaving Michigan may be our only answer right now.

As scary as that is for us, it's something I think we are coming to terms with. I love Michigan and my heart will always be here, but it just isn't possible to make a living in this state. I know the rest of the country is hard hit too, but with giving other states a possiblity maybe we can make a living again and provide what our child needs.

The whole being without employment leaves you stripped of everything including your pride. No family should have to go through what we have. I hope people who have jobs truly appreciate them.

Again, I am not saying any of this for pity because that is not who I am. Who I am is a fighter and I think we all need to have a little more fight in us to protect what we hold so dear to us -- that is, our families.

The government has allowed Big Business to strip many of us of our homes, our pride, and our jobs. I'm not just mad for my family, but for every family who is going through this type of situation. For this to happen in our country is an outrage and every American family should be mad.


Don't let outside stress turn your family against each other

Whatever you do this holiday give thanks for what you have. Especially if you are fortunate enough to have a job and a roof over your head. Say a prayer for all of us who don't have jobs that we may all find one soon.

All any of us want is a job to allow us to survive and take care of our families. I don't think that is too much to ask for.

This administration and Big Business have allowed jobs to be eliminated from our country. People want jobs that will pay enough to allow us to live and support our families. We also want our pride and dignity that has been stripped away from so many American families. We deserve at least that much. We the people have nothing and those who caused it need to be held accountable!

For others in our situation, don't let your family fall apart. Keep together and be strong. Don't allow a bad situation to ruin your marriage. Because in the end the only people you have that will stand by you is your family. Don't lose sight of that; if you do then they really have stripped us of everything!

Stress and strain can tear a family apart; please don't give anyone or anything that much power!!

It's Not Hard To Do Better Than Nothing

The Bush Administration should be known and remembered as not only the most stubborn administration in history, but also as the "do nothing" administration.

First of all let's begin with the revolving door at the U.S.-Mexico border. For years people have been raped, killed, and just plain dumped into shallow graves in Cludad Juarez, the Mexican city across the border from El Paso, TX.

These perpetrators have gone unpunished by an inept Mexican justice system.

The law enforcement records in Texas and New Mexico reveal that Jose Francisco Granados de la Paz was repeatedly jailed in the U.S. What happened? He was sent back to Mexico time after time. Only to return to the United States and commit more crimes.

On Monday, the U.S. Border Patrol discovered a secret tunnel that I am sure has been used to transport drugs into the United States.

Why am I so sure? Not so surprisingly a Border Patrol agent heard noise Monday from a 30-foot trailer that had been parked 360 yards north of Tecate, California.

What was in the trailer? It was half-full of packages containing marijuana.

There have been dozens of tunnels found along the U.S.-Mexican border yet the border still remains open to this day.


What kind of country are we leaving for our children?

What has the Bush Administration and Congress done about this? NOTHING!!

Decent American families are losing their homes to foreclosure. What has been done so far?
NOTHING!

Credit card companies are raising interest rates even if you've been a good customer and paid your bills on time. What is being done so far? NOTHING!

Dangerous imports of food and toys come into this country consistently. What has been done thus far? NOTHING!

Detroit public school graduation rate is 24.9 percent. Nationwide, 1.23 million high school seniors will not graduate this year. What is being done? NOTHING!

The Michigan jobless rate in May was 6.9 percent, which by the way is the highest in the nation. Michigan lost 28,700 jobs from March through May alone. What has been done? NOTHING!

Detroit has the highest poverty rate among 20 of the largest American cities. The average household income in Detroit is $28,069 and is the lowest among those 20 cities. Can you live on that? No, of course not. What is being done? NOTHING!

Medical care for illegal immigrants in 2004 was $2.2 billion and for their children $2.5 billion, which can only have increased over the past several years. What is being done? Oh gee, let's see -- leave the borders open. So what's been done? NOTHING!

Our wonderful men and women in the front lines are losing their lives every day. What is being done? NOTHING!

Big business and special interest groups are enriching themselves at our expense. What is being done? NOTHING!

We, the middle class, are at the mercy of individuals and companies that provide goods and services and control jobs. What is being done? NOTHING!

The American people are drowning and no one is lifting a finger to help. The country is on a one-way trip downward and not one person in the government is doing a thing to help.

There needs to be changes and quick. Not many of us can hang on much longer.

What can you do? For one thing write your Congressman. Also write the Senate. Let them know we as Americans aren't taking this any longer! We deserve better and we need to fight harder to make change.

Here is where to go and speak up for your rights as an American citizen:

www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

www.house.gov/writerep/

Give em' hell America. OUR FAMILIES DESERVE BETTER!!!!!

Again, Bush Tries To Disguise Stubbornness, Incompetence As Strong Leadership

My father fought in WWII to allow me and every American to speak when things aren't going in the right direction in our country.

Well, not only are they not going in the right direction this country is falling apart.

All headed by a president who I refer to as Dictator Bush. He is an embarrassment and has the nerve to speak out against dictatorship, but HE is the epitome of a dictator. What more do I have to say except impeachment!

Yesterday in Washington was classic Bush at his best. As usual this embarrassment we are forced to call president won't back down even when he is clearly in the wrong.

He was confronted yesterday with new facts from the National Intelligence Estimate, clearly stating that Iran had suspended its nuclear weapons program four years ago. This information comes from his own administration. Yet again in his usual stubborn dictatorship, Bush style, he replies: "Look, Iran was dangerous," he said. "Iran is dangerous. And Iran will be dangerous if they have the knowledge necessary to make a nuclear weapon."


Bush: Who needs accuracy, when you can formulate your own truths?

The president was hit with a multitude of questions from reporters about the U.S. and how our credibility was damaged by hyped intelligence before. He was confronted with whether he made the same mistake with Iran in October, when he warned about the possibility of a "WWIII" at a press conference.

However, instead of admitting a mistake, in his usual Bush manner he made a comment before he learned of the new NIE. Although he did acknowledge that Mike McConnell, Director of National Intelligence, gave him a heads up that something was up last summer.

McConnell came to the president and said, "We have some new information," Bush recalled. "He didn't tell me what the information was. He did tell me it was going to take a while to analyze."

Democratic Senator Joe Biden said he can't believe the president got tipped off in August to a change and didn't follow-up with questions until last week.

"If that's true," Biden told reporters, "he's one of the most incompetent presidents in modern American history."

I believe not only is Bush incompetent, but he is an outright liar. This man doesn't even have the words "back down" in his vocabulary. Again, not even the slightest admission that he was wrong.

Classic Bush at his best -- no surrender or retreat. He's done more damage to our country than any president in history. What a legacy!

No Qualms With Legal Entry Into U.S., But Illegal Is Illegal, Folks!

I have written about this subject before, which is we have broken borders in our country. I guess it needs to be mentioned again, because clearly nothing seems to have changed.

One new fact I have recently found out is that Michigan is one of eight states giving out drivers licenses to illegal immigrants. This is appalling. Our state is in a very bad economic state and this is not helping.

People in the state of Michigan are losing their jobs and homes at an alarming rate. It is nearly impossible to find a job in our state. The last thing we need is more economic hardship here in Michigan, but indeed here we are giving out licenses to illegal aliens.

We are lacking leadership in our state as well as in Washington. I guess I don't need to mention that Congress isn't doing much better.


What's wrong with THIS picture? (Sad thing is, it's not much of an exaggeration)

Corporate America is spending more than 2 billion dollars a year to lobby in Washington, and Congress has rallied around the special interests they seek and serve.

The country is clearly headed in the wrong direction. The very people we have elected to serve all citizens have thumbed their noses at us.

I am not a racist to want our borders closed. If I hear the word "racist" used one more time to describe American Citizens who want our borders closed, I think I will scream. Illegal is illegal, no matter how they try to candycoat it. If I broke the law I would be in jail. What part of "illegal" doesn't anyone seem to understand?

President Ronald Reagan signed into law 21 years ago amnesty for more than three million illegal aliens who had entered our country. Now, another 21 years later we hear the same verbage from the pro-amnesty people who advocated open borders. They are still claiming that there will be no social or economic cost to us, the taxpayers. Doesn't history teach us that this is simply not a true statement?

I said it before and I will say it again: you can't reform immigration law if you can't control it.

The following quote was by Theodore Roosevelt in 1919. This is from a letter to the American Defense Society, 10 years after he was president.

"In the first place we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace or origin. But this is predicated upon the man's becoming in very fact an American, and nothing but an American.

There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag, and this excludes any foreign flag or a nation to which we are hostile...We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language...and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."

- Theodore Roosevelt, 1919

Need I say more?!

If you would like to read more about this subject, please visit http://www.somadicouldscream.com/

Don't Be Afraid To Be Happy Instead Of Hungry!

Everyone today is so weight-conscious. I think that's fine, but I really feel it is affecting our children a great deal. Especially girls in their teens.

My daughter is very thin and she will still ask me, "Mom, am I fat?" I get so upset when she asks me this question because the fact is she is very thin. However, what I see and what she sees may be two different things.

She won't wear shorts in the summer anymore and that scares me. I told her that the girls in Hollywood and the ones in magazines are pictures that have been touched up. Even if they do look perfect, these pictures have been retouched or airbrushed to make them look perfect.

I was lucky to have my husband be the Editor-in-Chief of a local sports magazine, and they happened to do a swimsuit issue very similar to Sports Illustrated. Not only was I lucky enough to see the process so was my daughter.

Yes, these women are beautiful, but they do have imperfections just like the rest of us. It is amazing how much re-touching can be done to these photos. Plus, they have professionals doing their hair and make up.

I think it is important as a parent to make our children feel beautiful. Our country is so hung up on weight and beauty, but beauty goes much deeper than the physical appearance.

How you treat others should be more important. We should emphasize this to our children.

Of course, Hollywood doesn't do much to help. These actresses are so skinny they all look anorexic. No one ever seems skinny enough. That just sends the wrong message to our children. How can you be happy if you're hungry all the time?

Now I'm not saying eat whatever you want whenever you want. However, I believe eveything in moderation is fine. Especially for growing and developing bodies. Unless a doctor tells you otherwise.

This is another reason I cook with the freshest ingredients I can. I always try to have a balanced meal on the table. A meat, vegetable, and potato or rice will usually fill everyone up. Balanced meals are meals you can feel good about serving your family.

As a person of Italian descent, pasta has always been a must at the dinner table several times a week. Now I know pasta can be very fattening; however, today we have other pasta alternatives.

Most grocery stores carry whole wheat pasta, which is very good for you. Also there are light sauces with vegetables that you can use instead of a heavy or cream-based sauce.

My grandparents lived to a ripe old age and ate more pasta than anything else. They were all healthy and happy because they weren't hungry all the time.

Here is a a Tomato Primavera you can feel good about feeding your family. Notice all the fresh ingredients. What does Primavera mean in Italian? "Springtime." We could all use a little springtime in November!

TOMATO PRIMAVERA


1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
1 14 1/2-ounce can whole tomatoes
1 small ear corn, kernels shucked and par-boiled for 1 minute
1 small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
2 ounces extra-small button mushrooms, halved
1 teaspoon double-conentrate tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh oregano to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried basil or 10 leaves of fresh basil
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

In a skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the onion and garlic; saute until tender, 2 or 3 minutes. (Make sure to not burn the garlic because it will turn very bitter.)

Add tomatoes, breaking them up with your hands. Stir in remaining ingredients. Raise the heat slightly and simmer the sauce until thick, about 10 minutes. Toss with cooked pasta. Serves 4-6

Olive oil is great to use all the time because it won't clog the arteries. Also, there's a small amount of sugar in this recipe, but you need to balance the acid of the tomatoes. With all the ingredients, a 1/2 teaspoon of sugar really isn't much. Also, don't forget whole wheat pastas! They are very tasty, not to mention good for you.

As parents the best thing we can do is serve healthy and balanced meals to our family. This should include pastas.

When you eat healthy you are happy and alert. This makes you feel good about yourself.

So try serving fresh ingredients and I'm sure you will be amazed how much weight we all don't gain. Three well-balanced meals a day is a way to stay healthy.

Let's make sure our children feel beautiful and one way to do that is give them healthy food choices, which believe it or not should include pasta with fresh ingredients.

We should all try to focus more on health than body image. However, that's easier said than done, but healthy foods will get you to a ripe old age. A skinny, unhealthy, malnourished body will only lead to a tired and sick body.

Look at all these people in Hollywood who die at such young ages. Unfortunately, many young girls look up to these types of people. As parents I'm not sure what we can do about that, but we can offer our children healthy food choices.

Fresh foods and ingredients are one way to maintain a healthy weight. If you're healthy you can't help but be happy!

"Stars" Dancers Truly Shined; Not So Much The Judges

Which star will win tonight on "Dancing With the Stars"? Well, your guess is as good as mine.

I think they all did a great job. This season they've entertained us, scared us, and made us realize they are just as human as the rest of us.

The judges seemed to be very cranky and critical last night. A little more so than usual. Of course, critique the dancers, but why be so cruel as they seem to be on occasion? The judges seem to be very snobby most of the time, and I find that very irritating.

Marie Osmond, mother of eight, age 48, made all of us over-40 women proud! On top of the grueling schedule of just being on "Dancing With The Stars", she had to deal with passing out on live television, her dad passing away, her son being put into rehab, and other engagements with her family. She smiled through it all despite the criticism and adversity she faced. In my book that makes her a winner.

Bruno Tonioli said Marie Osmond and Jonathan's dance was "the loopiest thing he'd ever seen". He also compared it to Baby Jane and the bride of Chucky. These comments were simply uncalled for and plain mean-spirited. This from a guy who is so animated he makes Scooby Doo seem like a real dog.

Even when these judges gave praise last night it wasn't whole-hearted.


Not bad for a 48-year-old mom!

After Melanie Brown's performance Carrie Ann Inaba still wasn't satisfied. Her comment was that she was expecting a hair more excitement. Again, Mel B has a new baby, and she has been working very hard with the Spice Girls. Cut these people a little slack! They've all had other commitments through the whole season of "Dancing With The Stars". I was so happy to see the Spice Girls in the audience boo Carrie Ann's comments.

Helio Castroneves got slammed for his sloppy footwork and hard landings. I personally found his performance very entertaining. Let's remember this guy is a race car driver. Give him a brake. Sorry -- a little play on words there!

I found the whole season of "Dancing With The Stars" entertaining and a program my whole family could watch. How many shows can you say that about today?

The only thing that could have made this season better was the judges not being so mean-spirited with their comments. There is constructive criticism and then there is just being plain mean. Five-year-old children know the difference; why don't adults?

My 14-year-old daughter, Nicole, was shocked by the mean comments. She was especially offended by the comments about Marie last night. I have to agree with my daughter; the judges went a little too far and out of their way to be nasty.

As far as I am concerned there are no losers. Every single one of them has worked hard. Not to mention the professional dancers like Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Julianne Hough and Jonathan Roberts who made these stars truly shine.

They should all be proud. All of these stars gave up time with their families to do this, and gave us many hours of enjoyable family entertainment. For that alone I thank them. I'm just sorry the judges didn't seem to appreciate it, but I'm sure many families at home did.

The only people left to redeem themselves tonight are the judges. Let's hope they do just that!

Stressed? Make Time For A Good Book

I think one of the best things we can do for our families is to be as stress-free as possible.

As a mom, that isn't always so easy, and with the Christmas Holiday breathing down our necks it's almost impossible.

However, I have found over the course of the years that reading is a great way to relieve some of my stress. I love to read and I do it whenever I get a chance.

With the cold weather upon us it may be a little bit easier to pick up a book and relax. I find the best time is in the evening when it is quiet and the kids have gone to bed.



As parents we need to relax and not have to feel guility about it. A book is a great way to do that and is still pretty inexpensive.

I have also found used book stores to be a great source to find very inexpensive reading material. They have romance, murder mysteries, and everything in between. If you have books to trade in it is even more inexpensive.

For instance, I recently went to a used bookstore in my area and had books to trade in. I paid as little as $1.50 for a book. Even without the trade-in the book would have only been $3.00.

This is a great way to provide hours of relaxation and stress-free entertainment. On a cold winter's night there is nothing like a great book and a hot cup of cocoa!

So don't feel guilty -- pick up a great book and relax. It's one of the best things we can do for ourselves and our families.

Good Communication With Your Kids Includes Talking About Scary Things -- Like The News

I'm one of those people who watches the news on a regular basis. I like to keep up with what is going on in the world.

I love to watch CNN, and Lou Dobbs happens to be one of my favorites. Anderson Cooper and his show "360" is also one I like to tune into on a daily basis. I suppose I watch both of them because I usually agree with what they're saying. As stressed as I can get, I really don't need to watch people I disagree with.

Which is probably why I don't like to watch Fox News. They're usually saying things I don't agree with and have guests such as Ann Coulter, who I won't even bother to watch. If I see her I can't change the channel fast enough. Bill O'Reilly is another show I just simply can't and won't watch. Now this is just my opinion.

This entry isn't to bash Fox and promote CNN. I just think it's good to know what's going on in the world. If you like Fox more than CNN by all means watch it, but even if you're a homemaker you should keep up with current events.

I think it keeps your mind alert. Even though the news is depressing at times and very sensationalistic, it makes you feel smarter and informed. Especially if you're at home a lot.

My daughter Nicole, now 14, is very interested in what is happening in the world. She comes home after school and talks about current events. Nicole's social studies teacher happens to talk about current events in class quite often. My daughter thinks her teacher is wonderful and she is so interested in his class.

As violent as the news can be my daughter seems to be able to handle it. I attribute this to her having a safe haven to come home to. You can't hide the violence from your kids no matter how hard you try.

Several months back we had a case in Michigan where a wife and mother went missing. Her name was Tara Grant. It was just a horrific crime. As usual the husband claimed he had nothing to do with her disappearance. He of course later confessed to killing her.


Tara Grant (above), whose husband, Steven (below), confessed to killing



Now we have a current case which is Stacy Peterson. Another wife and mother missing. This time from the state of Illinois. Again, the husband is claiming he has nothing to do with her disappearance. We'll see; however, I highly doubt it. Most mothers just don't leave their children.

How about the highly publicized Laci Peterson case? Again, another husband claiming he had nothing to do with his wife's disappearance. Not only did this monster kill his wife, but also his unborn baby. Unless you live in a cave you've heard about this case, and so have your children.

I think it's important as a parent to be able to talk to your kids about current events. They talk about them in school, and we need them to be well informed.

No, you can't make sense of these types of murder cases. Thankfully most of us, not even in our wildest dreams, could ever hurt another human being let alone someone we are supposed to love.

How do you explain this type of violent crime to your kids? You can't. However, you can sit down and talk to them about it. Especially if they bring up the subject, which my daughter has done on numerous occasions.

We live in a very violent society. However, it's up to us to make our children feel safe. Talking about it is one way to make them feel better.

These monsters that kill their wives not only affect their children and family, but they affect all of us. Let's take back some of the power that these monsters have taken away from all of us! Especially the innocence of our children, of which they've robbed some.

By talking about it with your children it will relieve some of the fright they may be feeling. It's important to let our kids know that they can talk to us, even about the most unspeakable things.

Maybe we don't have the answers as to why these terrible things occur. If we talk about them it may prevent it from happening in the future. Let's teach our kids that violence is not the answer. Because chances are, they've heard about it, and not talking about it won't make it go away.

By talking about these types of terrible crimes and current events with our children it may prevent it from happening in the future. One way is to make sure they feel safe and secure at home. When you talk to your kids you get to know them better. The only way to be able to talk to your kids about these types of crimes is for you to know what is going on yourself. Maybe if some of these monsters had a person to talk to they would have thought twice before doing what they did.

Hopefully by talking to our children it will prevent future violence. If we do our job as parents, maybe in some small way these poor people haven't died in vain.

Turkey Week Continues: An Easy, Creamy Soup

(note to readers: All this week I'll be sharing with you recipes and ideas of what to do with all that leftover turkey you're sure to have Friday morning. Come back everyday for a new idea!)


Turkey week is winding down. However, I still have plenty of turkey left.

Here is another quick and easy recipe. This is the quickest soup in the world to make. It's great with a sandwich and would make a nice lunch or dinner.

With everyone gearing up for Christmas and the busiest time of the year, this is a recipe that you should keep in your file. The great thing about it is that the turkey can be replaced with chicken. So if you have chicken left over, feel free to use that instead.

Nothing like hot soup on a cold day. Especially when it doesn't keep you in the kitchen all day long. Of course, no one else has to know that! I promise I won't say a word.



Cream of Turkey Soup

¼ cup butter or margarine
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup milk
½ cup light cream
3 cups chicken broth
1 ½ cups finely chopped cooked turkey (or chicken)
Dash pepper

In a large saucepan melt butter or margarine; stir in flour. Stir in milk, cream and broth. Cook and stir till mixture is slightly thickened and bubbly; reduce heat. Stir in turkey or chicken and pepper; heat through. Garnish with snipped chives and parsley.

This recipe can be doubled very easily, just make sure to use a large enough pot.

Makes 4 servings

I hope the recipes I've passed along this week helped someone save time and money.

Happy Holidays!!!

Turkey Week Continues: A Trip South of the Border!

(note to readers: All this week I'll be sharing with you recipes and ideas of what to do with all that leftover turkey you're sure to have Friday morning. Come back everyday for a new idea!)


Well, Thanksgiving is officially over and on to the next big holiday of the year, Christmas!

Still, we're all left with all that turkey. Here's another recipe with more of a Mexican flare. A little different than the other recipes. However, I'm sure you will enjoy it!


Turkey Enchilada Casserole

1 cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped green pepper
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 cups chopped turkey
1 4-ounce can green chili peppers, rinsed, seeded and chopped
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup dairy sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (6 ounces)
12 6-inch tortillas

350 degree oven

In a large saucepan cook onion and green pepper in the 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine till tender. Combine onion mixture in a bowl with chopped turkey and green chili peppers; set aside.

For sauce; in the same saucepan melt 3 tablespoons butter or margarine. Stir in flour, coriander and salt. Stir in chicken broth all at once; cook and stir till thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes more.

Remove from heat; stir in sour cream and ½ of the cheese.

Stir ½ cup of the sauce into the turkey mixture.

Dip each tortilla into remaining sauce to soften; fill each with about ¼ cup of the turkey mixture. Roll up. Arrange rolls in a 13 x 9 x2-inch baking dish; pour remaining sauce over. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake uncovered, in a 350 degree oven about 25 minutes or till bubbly.

Serves 6

This recipe has quite a few ingredients, but you may still have many of them on hand after the holidays. For instance, if you made dips or a cheese platter you will be able to use up those ingredients. So make sure you check your refrigerator before you shop for any ingredients.

You can always use whatever cheese you have on hand and I'm sure it will be just as delicious. You can play around with this recipe and come up with your own twist.

Be a little adventurous. If you don't have all the ingredients put your own signature on it. If you have red peppers, by all means use them instead of the green. As for the chili peppers, you can always add a little hot sauce, if you have that on hand. If you like things mild simply omit the hot sauce or just use very little.

Have fun with this recipe and don't stress out. You've already had a busy week!!!

Cheers!!

Turkey Week Continues: Monte Cristo Sandwich

(note to readers: All this week I'll be sharing with you recipes and ideas of what to do with all that leftover turkey you're sure to have Friday morning. Come back everyday for a new idea!)

Yesterday I shared a recipe for Turkey Frame Soup. Today, here's something a little different to go with your soup!

This next idea is a hearty sandwich, and one more way to use up that turkey. It's satisfying and will fill up those with a huge appetite!

The sandwich is called the Monte Cristo. Most food historians believe this sandwich was derived from a French sandwich called the Croque Monsieur. To me it's a glorified grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you call it a Monte Cristo or Croque Monsieur, it's delicious.

The basic sandwich consists of three slices of white bread and ham, turkey, or chicken dipped in a beaten egg and fried in butter. I like to serve this with a side of cranberry sauce, which I believe complements this sandwich.

The only ingredients you may have to buy are deli ham and some Swiss or Gruyere cheese. We love Swiss cheese in my house. I usually have Swiss on hand, and that's what I usually use in this sandwich. However, use the cheese you and your family will enjoy most. I think either cheese would be terrific.


MONTE CRISTO SANDWICHES

(This fried sandwich contains turkey and ham)

18 slices bread
butter
6 slices ham
6 slices turkey
12 slices Swiss or Gruyere cheese
a little mustard and mayonnaise
3 eggs
1/3 cup milk
1/8 teaspoon salt

For each sandwich use 3 slices of bread. Butter one side of bread first, cover with a slice of ham and a slice of turkey. Butter both sides of the second slice of bread and spread with a little mustard or other dressing.

Place on top of turkey or ham slice and top with 2 thin slices of cheese. Butter third slice for top; press sandwich lightly and trim crusts. Cut into halves diagonally and secure with toothpicks.

Beat eggs with milk and salt. Dip sandwich halves into the egg mixture until soaked and fry on a hot skillet or on a griddle in butter or margarine. Brown on all sides, adding more butter when necessary. Remove toothpicks before serving.

Makes 6 sandwiches

In 1966 Disneyland in Anaheim, California began serving this sandwich, which contributed to its popularity. To this day Disneyland continues to serve this popular sandwich.

I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Turkey Week Continues: Easy Turkey Frame Soup

(note to readers: All this week I'll be sharing with you recipes and ideas of what to do with all that leftover turkey you're sure to have Friday morning. Come back everyday for a new idea!)

With the high expenses we have to deal with on a daily basis it's helpful to stretch your food budget as far as you can. This includes your Thanksgiving turkey.

This next recipe uses up the frame of your turkey. Now nothing on the turkey will go to waste, including the frame.

This is a soup so it will take a little extra time, but I think it is well worth the effort. I believe overall it is a pretty easy recipe and will help you use every bit of your Thanksgiving turkey.

My husband is the one who found this recipe and he is the one who loves to make this soup every year. I think the noodles are what makes this soup a hearty meal.

Turkey Frame Soup



1 meaty turkey frame
3 quarts water (12 cups)
1 onion quartered
2 teaspoons salt
1 16 oz. can tomatoes, cut up
1 tablespoon instant chicken bouillon granules
1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano, crushed
1 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
1/8 teaspoon pepper
4 cups of fresh vegetables (your choice)
1 ½ cup uncooked medium noodles

Break turkey frame or cut in half with kitchen shears, place in large Dutch oven with water, onion and salt. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover; simmer for 1 ½ hours. Remove turkey frame; when cool enough to handle, cut off meat and coarsely chop. Discard bones. Strain broth; discard solids. Return broth to Dutch oven. Stir in cut-up turkey meat, undrained tomatoes, bouillon granules, oregano, thyme, and pepper. Stir in fresh vegetables. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover; simmer for 45 minutes. Stir in uncooked noodles, simmer, uncovered, 8 to 10 minutes or till noodles are done.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Makes 10 servings.

Our family loves this soup. I hope yours will too.

Happy cooking!!!!!

Turkey Week: Another Leftover Idea Every Day

(note to readers: All this week I'll be sharing with you recipes and ideas of what to do with all that leftover turkey you're sure to have Friday morning. Come back everyday for a new idea!)


This week is dedicated to the turkey, and what the heck to do with the leftovers!

After all the cooking most of us will be doing this week, who wants to do any more than we already have?

Here is another recipe that tastes great and is quick and easy:

Turkey Pot Pie

1 can (10 3/4 oz.) condensed Cream of Celery Soup
1 can (10 3/4 oz.) condensed Cream of Potato Soup
1 cup milk
1/4 tsp. dried thyme leaves, crushed
1/4 tsp. pepper
4 cups cooked cut-up vegetables (your favorites)
2 cups cubed cooked turkey
1 pkg. (7 1/2 or 10 oz.) refrigerated biscuits

In a 3 qt. shallow baking dish mix soups, milk thyme, pepper, vegetables and turkey.

Bake at 400 degrees 15 minutes or until hot. Stir. Arrange biscuits over turkey mixture. Bake 15 minutes or until biscuits are golden.

Serves 5

This dinner takes no time at all to prepare. So now you can go ahead and start Christmas shopping!

Have fun!!

Thanksgiving Meal: After I Make It, It's A GOOD Tired

I love the holidays! Thanksgiving is one of my favorites.

The smell of the turkey in the oven. The sound of my family watching the parade in the living room as I am busy in the kitchen.

Usually I feel pressured when my daughter asks me when we're going to eat. Not so on Thanksgiving because I feel like a kid myself. I can't wait to sit down with my family in a cozy house and eat too.

Like my mom, I make everything from scratch, from the potatoes to the gravy and everything in between. It's once a year and my family really does enjoy it!

By the end of the day I'm usually so tired I could pass out. But it's the kind of tired that makes you happy. It's knowing your family enjoyed the meal. That alone is the reason I cook every day, not just on Thanksgiving.

My turkeys are always a success. I believe the reason is because I season them very liberally. You need to remember this is a big bird and really needs to be seasoned and seasoned well. I usually get a 25 lb. turkey, and we always have tons of leftovers, which my family loves.

If your family doesn't like leftovers, by all means get a smaller turkey, but still make sure to season it well.

Basting is another thing I do as the turkey cooks. I think that's one of the secrets to a moist turkey. I try to baste it at least every 20 minutes. Yes, it's a lot of up and down all day. Again, remember, it's only once a year. It's a lot of work anyway -- you might as well go the extra mile!

Also, every time I baste I usually add a little more seasoning as I go. I use tons of seasonings such as, poultry; marjoram; sage; thyme; garlic powder; onion powder; parsley; basil; salt; and pepper. It sounds like a lot, but I guarantee it will be the best turkey you've ever had!

I also love a crispy skin so the last hour or so I uncover the bird to allow the skin to crisp up. If it starts getting too crispy and the turkey isn't done, simply cover it again with aluminum foil.

I remember the first Thanksgiving I cooked, and how nervous I was. Fortunately for me it turned out just fine. Although I must admit I probably called my mom a dozen times. She probably felt that she was cooking the Thanksgiving meal that year!

Well, I have about 17 or so turkeys and Thanksgiving meals under my belt now. Although I still get a little bit of butterflies in my stomach, I really do enjoy making a beautiful Thanksgiving meal for my family.

I pray every year that my meal will turn out fine. It's sure a lot of work, but when your family really loves it, isn't it worth it at least once a year? To watch them eat and enjoy the food is the best gift they can give me.

Now after the meal the next problem is what to do with the leftovers. I have several suggestions and I will put them on my blog throughout the week. A turkey can go a long way and is wonderful for your food budget. Here is my first suggestion.

Turkey-Broccoli Divan

1 lb. broccoli, cut into spears, cooked and drained
1 1/2 cups cubed cooked turkey
1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed Cream of Broccoli Soup
1/3 cup of milk
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
2 tbsp. dry bread crumbs
1 tbsp. butter or margarine, melted

In a 9" pie plate or 2-qt. shallow baking dish arrange broccoli and turkey. Mix soup and milk. Pour over broccoli and turkey.

In a bowl mix cheese, bread crumbs and melted butter together. Sprinkle cheese and bread crumb mixture over top.

Bake at 450 degrees for 20 minutes or until hot.

Serves 4

* You can double this recipe very easily, just make sure to use a larger baking dish.

This is an easy recipe and tastes great. Another reason to invest in a big turkey this Thanksgiving!

Enjoy!!!

Violent Kids, Left Unchecked, Will Become Violent Adults

The violence in our society is so bad and it is affecting all our children in one way or another.

Yesterday my daughter went to school as usual. She was looking forward to going to school because she had made the Honor Roll. In recognition of that, the middle school had a pizza party for those children who had worked so hard.

I have always been a parent who volunteers for these kinds of events, and I have always been happy to do so. I love to see the kids have a time to relax and enjoy a special event at school. Especially when they all deserved it and worked so very hard to achieve what they had.

There was also another event happening in my daughter's school yesterday, which was a book fair. If you're not familar, a book store is set up in the school and you give your kids money to buy whatever they would like for the amount of money you have given them.

My daughter chose a book and a Harry Potter poster. Nicole is a huge Harry Potter fan and was so excited to get this poster. Now leave it up to someone to turn a fun thing into an awful experience.

My daughter and her friend are walking out of school at the end of the day and this boy who they have known since elementary school came up to them. My daughter said to him "I just bought this Harry Potter Poster, do you want to see it?" Instead of a yes or no he grabbed the poster out of my daughter's hand and pushed her to the ground. She was so shocked. She asked him what was wrong with him and he just looked down and laughed at her.

This kid never said he was sorry or anything. Didn't try to help her up or even inquire if she was hurt.

My husband picked her up from school, and as soon as she she walked into the door and saw me she burst into tears. She said to me, "I hate school, I hate the pressure and I'm sick of people!" I was stunned. All I could say is, "What happened?" When she told me I hit the roof.

We marched right back to school and I went to see the principal. I was so upset I was shaking. It seems like when things like this happen there is never an adult present to see it actually take place. So now it becomes my daughter's word against this other kid's.

Fortunately for me and unfortunately for society this kid has a history of violent behavior. Now I'm not saying my child is perfect, but she sure doesn't hurt anyone intentionally.

My daughter has always been nice to this particular boy because she knows his history. He's a huge kid, and is built like a linebacker. And my daughter, even though she is tall, is pretty skinny and not much more than 100 pounds. This kid is probably pushing 170 at least. That alone should give this guy a clue to leave her alone, but not the case.

The other thing is, we've had a run-in with this kid before and so has my daughter's friend. In fourth grade he punched my daughter and I went to see her teacher. In sixth grade he pushed down her best friend in the hall and her parents went into school to complain. He has bullied so many people that the list goes on and on.

Yet somehow they keep letting this kid back in school. If this isn't a cry for help, I'm not sure what is. They suspend this kid and he gets right back in school again. I'm not sure what is going on in this boy's home, but it can't be good.

Not one person is getting this kid the help he is screaming for. This boy is going to hurt someone very badly, and not one person is doing a thing to prevent it. Suspension isn't getting him the professional help he clearly needs.

This is the type of child that will shoot up a school, or maybe even turn into a rapist and murderer. If someone doesn't get him the help he so clearly needs society will take care of him. However, how many people will get hurt before that happens? Why does someone have to get hurt very badly or killed before some type of action is taken?

Fortunately my daughter wasn't hurt very badly. Her knees were red and puffy, but a bag of ice can take care of that. However, a bag of ice can't help this boy and neither can looking the other way.



So on Monday my husband and I have to go back to school and complain. The principal told us to come back on Monday and talk to the the Assistant Principal because she (the principal) won't be in school. I really believe she just doesn' t want to deal with this kid and is passing along the problem to her new Assistant Principal. I guess that's fine as long as it gets positive results.

The violence in our country is everywhere. We see it on TV, read it in the newspapers and see it in our schools. The most important thing I can do is try to keep my child as safe as I can.

The other thing I hope is that this other child gets the professional help he so clearly needs. I don't want anything bad to happen to him or to anyone else. It's up to us as adults to make sure these situations are taken care of in a positive way.

It's so easy to look the other way. The most disturbing thing to me in this particular situation isn't that my daughter was physically hurt, but that this kid just looked down at her and laughed. That will haunt me for a long time.

So now it becomes my responsibility to try to get results. Obviously this boy isn't getting what he needs from his home life. I feel so bad for him on one hand, but I am also very mad.

I guess the people I should be mad at are his family. I know for a fact there isn't a dad involved in his life so maybe that is where the anger comes from. I'm not sure, but all I know is that this situation must be addressed and right now.

It's up to us as responsible adults to take action and get involved. Not only in our children's lives, but to help other children as well. I'm not saying stick your nose in where it doesn't belong, but we must help ALL kids -- not just our own.

In the end I hope this child and many other children go down the right path. The most important thing we can give our children is a good home life. Somewhere that they feel safe and secure.

When my daughter came to me I was happy. This meant she trusts me to take care of the situation and protect her. As a parent that is the best gift I will ever receive from my child. She knows she has my support no matter what. We have open lines of communication and I feel I have done a good job with her. My daughter didn't respond back to this kid in a violent way. She came to me so that makes me feel like I did something right bringing her up they way I have.

All our children need to know they can come to their parents and we will be there for them. If this happened more often maybe our society wouldn't be so violent. Kids need reassurance on a consistent basis. They need the support and love of their family. Growing up in our society is so hard; let's not make it harder on our kids than it already is. Never give up on your kids -- they should be the most important people in your life.

Well, it's back to school for me on Monday! Wish me luck!!!!

Let's Grade Teachers More Often; Accountability Is Lacking

What is going on in our school system? I am so tired of teachers not doing their jobs.

Maybe that is why so many parents are home-schooling their children. We have to do the teachers' jobs anyway. Might as well teach them from home.

The amount of homework that comes home each night is ridiculous. What are these teachers doing during the day?

Today was the kicker and what got me into this rant. My daughter, who's very smart, came home with science homework. She said to me, "Mom, I don't understand this." I asked her why she didn't ask the teacher. Her reply? "Because they look at you like you're stupid."

That did not make me feel good at all. Keep in mind my daughter has made the Honor Roll every semester since she started middle school. I really don't doubt her feelings on this matter. Over the years I think I have done more teaching in the evening than the majority of the teachers have done during the course of a day.

Now I'm not saying all teachers are like this, but it seems more are than aren't. A teacher's job is to teach and if you have to go over something over and over again, oh well -- isn't that your job?

We need to be grading these teachers just as they grade our kids. Just because you have a degree doesn't mean you are qualified to teach a subject. In fact, in most cases the more some of these teachers know about the subject they're teaching, the more they are unable to teach the subject at all!

The pattern I seem to always see are in the subjects of math and science. I'm sure these teachers are very smart, but they can't seem to teach others. Maybe because they find it so easy they can't relate. They have to be able to take the time and care. They also have to remember that these are children. As far as I am concerned, if the children aren't successful neither is the teacher.

Making kids take notes and rambling for an hour every day isn't teaching. You have to talk to these kids and put it in a context that is interesting and one that they can understand. Talking to them in Greek won't get the job done.

My daughter comes home each night to ask my husband and me for help. Of course we do help her, but in a way that she can understand. How come I can teach her in a way she understands, but they can't? Isn't that what we pay them to do?

Over the years I've done this time and time again. I feel my daughter's success is mostly due to what my husband and I have done at home to teach her. Now isn't that sad. This child is in school for seven hours a day and still has to come home and have us explain stuff to her. Not just once in awhile, but on a consistent basis.

I feel so sad for these kids who have no support system at home. How will they ever succeed if the teachers in school aren't doing their jobs?

We need to have some kind of system that grades these teachers and holds them accountable to some degree. That's part of why our country is going down the tubes. Most of the teachers are just not able to teach. Like I said, just because you have a degree doesn't mean you are qualified to teach our children.


Sometimes, homeschooling seems like a better and better option


Most of the teachers now don't even grade the kids' papers. They have the children do it. How in the heck can you know if a child needs help if you don't take the time to grade the papers yourself? The other way they are grading now are with these scanning machines. The child fills in the circles on a narrow sheet and they put it in a machine and it grades the paper. Again, talk about being out of touch with the children in your class! How can you possibly know what is going on, when you're relying on machines, and other students, to grade assignments?

I guess the school districts are okay with these scanning machines, otherwise they wouldn't provide them. Instead of making the teachers' jobs easier, why aren't they making things easier on our kids? Make these teachers teach and hold them responsible for a class's success or failure. They do that in the real world -- why not in the classroom?

You have to have patience as a teacher and be able to instruct children in a way they understand. Our school system is broken and someone needs to fix it and quickly. How will we remain a super power when we fail our kids on a regular basis?

Our children's future success is in all of our hands and teachers need to do their part too! You chose this profession so be the best you can be -- just like you expect from the kids.

Let Dinner Table Be Heart Of Your Family's Togetherness

As I was sitting here trying to think of what to write, for some reason my grandmother (on my mother's side) popped into my head. I started thinking about her and the rest of my family. I truly think I was lucky to be born into the family that I was.

I have so many fond memories. My grandmother's name was Julia, or Julie as everyone called her. She had such a sense of humor and was so fun to be around. My grandfather was Carl. He was a typical Italian man. He was born in Italy. My grandmother was Italian, but born here in the U.S.

It's funny but these two people were so different. He was of the old country and she was very Americanized. About the only thing I could see that these two had in common was an Italian background. However, I couldn't have been more wrong.

They raised seven children together, and lost one baby boy to pneumonia. They were married until the day my grandfather passed away in 1988. I saw them go through many things over the years; their love had to be very strong. Especially having three of their sons pass away over the course of their lives.

I think this is where a lot of my strength and family values come from. The most important thing we have is our families. That remains the reason I do all the things I do. Like most people some days I just don't want to cook, but I push myself. Mainly it's because I believe the dinner table is the only place during the course of the week that we are all at at the same time.

Meal time is the time where we can talk about our day. This is usually the only time during the day and the evening we say a prayer together and we do it before we eat our evening meal. I know religion and God is something people don't like to talk about today, but to me that's where the heart of my family is and where I get my strength.


This isn't my family, but the scene depicted was typical when I was a child and teenager

Faith is something you can't see, feel or touch, but in my heart I know that it has gotten me through some of the hardest trials in my life. Faith and a sense of family values I believe are the most important foundation we can have in our lives.

Even if you don't believe in God, I think your family is what gets you through some of the most difficult times. I just happen personally to believe in God. I don't believe I was born to the family I was by accident. I think there was a plan.

My memories of my grandparents and their quiet strength will continue to touch me throughout my life. Even though they aren't here with me any longer I feel them every day and they live through me. My memories can never be taken from me and my grandparents, dad and uncles will never die as long as they remain in my heart.

I will never forget the laughter, food and the smell of coffee coming from my grandmother's kitchen. The heart of our family was truly the kitchen. I still believe it is to this day. At the core of that heart is a faith in God and family.

So remember, even if you're exhausted at the end of the day, push yourself a little and make sure you cook for your family. Even if it's something simple. It will create memories and love. Isn't that worth a little more effort?



My husband Greg, daughter Nikki (and Scamp) creating new memories -- in the kitchen, naturally!



The heart of every family I believe comes from you and your kitchen. Please take the time to create lasting memories for your family. It's one way to say, "I love and appreciate you!" The people in your family are the most important people you will have in your life. Please make sure they know. Nothing replaces love and memories.

That's the reason I try to cook everyday. I believe that the heart of my family lies within me. It's up to me to create lasting memories that my family will carry throughout their lives. The smell every night from my kitchen and sitting together as a family at the dinner table is one way I am making memories for my family.

A house is made of walls and beams, a home is built with love and dreams. Try to make memories for your family. The best way to let people know you love them is to show them. One way is a warm meal and family time at the dinner table. Give it a try!

In The Year Of The Recall, Look To Homemade Toys This Holiday Season

I've addressed this on my blog before, but I guess it needs to be brought up again.

I watch the news on a pretty regular basis. Again, I am appalled at the government's slow reaction at anything that affects this nation's people. When it come to children I get even more upset.

Yet again, seven more U.S. children became sick after ingesting Chinese-made toy beads that were recalled last week because of a toxic coating.

Now if you aren't aware of the product, please check your home and call friends with children. The Spin Master Aqua Dots are the name of the toxic toy. This news should be plastered everywhere, but it isn't.


The Aqua Dots toy that's being recalled

The chemical that these beads are covered in causes children to be knocked unconscious. This particular chemical metabolizes into gamma hydroxybutyrate -- better known as the "date-rape drug".

On top of the child being knocked unconscious, it can also cause seizures, drowsiness, coma, and even death.

Where is the outrage from our government? These are our children -- our babies! Since this administration has been in office the country has done nothing but gone downhill at an alarming rate.

This government should be banning anything that comes from China! If not, everything that comes into our country should be tested thoroughly and these companies should have to pay for every bit of it. They should also make sure that the cost of such prevention doesn't get passed along to the consumer. There's a price for cheap labor and these companies should be made to pay for it.

I hope these toy companies get sued so badly they are put out of business. These are our children and there should be such a human outcry. They put American workers out of business to send products overseas to be made cheaper. I feel no pity for these companies, but as usual they are not the only ones hurt. When it comes to any child being harmed in any way that is where I really lose my temper. Especially when this could have all been avoided by someone testing these products and just plain doing their job!

The other thing that makes me mad is that it wasn't our govenment that banned these toys. It was in Beijing, China that they banned exports of this toy. That only happened after these Aqua Dots had been recalled in other countries. On top of that, China probably wouldn't have done anything either if an investigation hadn't been ordered.

The Chinese government doesn't care about their own people -- why would they care about ours? Furthermore, our government is just as bad; they don't protect us either. Where do we turn? The people running for president in 2008 aren't addressing all the issues facing our country today. They gloss over issues and I am sick and tired of them walking a fine line.

If you believe in something you should stand up for it and not be afraid of what others will say. We need people in our government who are honest and have a backbone. Personally I don't think there is anyone who fits this description, among the presidential candidates.

When it comes to children that is when I really get mad. We are here to protect them -- not put them in danger and our government and corporate America should make sure of that.

My daughter, Nicole, is 14 now so she doesn't really play with toys anymore. She's into her iPod, writing stories with her friends, and being a usual teenager. However, if I had a precious little one I wouldn't buy a single toy sold in stores this year. Hit these companies in the pocket book!

A few weeks back it was said that this would be the safest holiday on record. That is already not happening. Why believe anything the so-called experts say? If I had a little one, what I would do is buy toys at local craft shows. This time of the year, you can find such shows all over the place, usually at churches and schools. A lot of these retired gentlemen -- and ladies -- make beautiful wooden toys. I've bought them in the past for my daughter. Not only are you helping these folks that make these wonderful toys, you are also keeping your child safe. I'd trust someone like a local crafter more than I would these big toy manufacturers.

The kind of toys you find at a craft show are ones that will require kids to use more of their imagination. In the long run they will probably love the toy much more than a store bought one. It will probably keep them more entertained. Plus, the toys are better made --with care, love, and pride. Tell your kids that this hand-made toy was made especially for them and there isn't another one like it in the whole world. Make them feel special -- because they are. As parents we need to remember that there isn't another person like that special child in our life and he/she can't be replaced. Our children are made with care, love, and pride -- just like these special toys!


Homemade, hand-made toys like this car can be found at your local church or school's craft shows

If you want to keep your kids safe this holiday season, try a homemade toy. Maybe if we go back to the way things used to be we will all be better off. Not to mention, our kids will be safe. What could be better for all of us?

Wanting To Protect Our Borders Is NOT Racism

I am an American of Italian/Polish descent. My great-grandparents came to this country legally.

That is why I am so sick and tired of people in the government labeling me a racist because I believe our borders should be closed.

I have nothing against Mexicans, but I am against people coming into this country illegally. They also seem to expect the same rights and in some cases more rights than I have. My only curse today is having been born in this country.

I used to consider myself middle class. As time goes on and the war continues, the middle class is slowly but surely being eliminated and so are my rights as an American citizen.

My father fought in WWII for this country as a very young man. He brought me up to believe in the American government and always said they did what was best for their people. Well, at one time maybe they did, but not now.

Is this the thanks that my dad gets for being a veteran of WWII? Is this the thanks we get as his family for him putting his life on the line? They call us racist because we want our country secure. You're welcome!!!

How can we possibly have reform immigration if we can't control it?

It also doesn't matter if you are a Democrat or a Republican; both parties are putting the American family dead last.

What part of illegal doesn't anyone understand? I'm all for people coming into this country legally; that's what this country was built on. I am not, however, for anyone coming here illegally. Why are they better than my family? Why do they have more rights than I have? Why am I being labeled a racist because I want people to be legal citizens?

President Bush seems to want to fight terrorism overseas. Yet terrorists can come through the Mexican border. It's absolutely the craziest thing I have ever seen, and it makes no sense.

I worry about my family every day and I feel like this is not my country anymore. This government time and time again refuses to protect us. I am sick and tired of paying taxes for people who are not looking out for the American families' best interest. The only thing these politicians care about are votes and to heck with the American people!

Also, isn't it time we released Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, who were given terms of 11 and 12 years, respectively, on their convictions for shooting an illegal alien drug smuggler? This is how the government thanks them and their families for protecting our borders? By throwing them in jail?


U.S. Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos (left) and Jose Compean

Well if no one else will say it I will. Thank you, Mr. Ramos and Mr. Compean for protecting our borders. I as an American am so sorry for what your families are going through, and the American government should be ashamed of themselves. If I was actually a racist would I be saying this to two gentlemen who are clearly of Mexican descent? Probably not!!!

It is a well-known fact that Mexico remains the primary source for illegal drugs to enter our country. These drugs include cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamines. The border in Mexico is the main battlefield in the war against drugs and the federal government has done nothing to secure it.

As an American citizen I am tired of the government and their excuses. I'm sure I am not the only person who feels this way. It's time to stand up and say we are not going to take this anymore!!! How dare anyone call me a racist when I want things to be done legally. I believe it is irresponsible to label people as racist for your own political gain. I'm sure I'm not alone in my feelings.

Even though my dad is no longer with us I wish him Happy Veterans Day. Your family appreciates the sacrifice you gave to your country -- even if the government you protected doesn't respect the family you left behind.

To all the veterans out there, thanks for all you've done for this country; the American people appreciate it!

Last but not least to our brave men and women serving our country: I thank you and your family for the sacrifices you are making. For all our military on the front lines, I pray for your safe and quick return home!

Happy Veterans Day!

Why Dirty Tons Of Pots And Pans When One Will Do The Trick?

One of the best ways I have found to save money and stretch your food budget is by utilizing leftovers.

I love to make one pot comfort meals.

The best way I have found to do this is by doubling the recipe. When you make soups and stews this is very easy to do. It is also very cost effective.

Also, the aroma from the meal will greet your family as they come home. What a nice thing to come home to after a hard day!

For instance, the other day I made stew. Stew meat is one of the cheapest meats you can buy and when cooked long enough it's delicious. So if you are a stay-at-home mom these kinds of meals are always within your reach.

Also, when you have leftovers you don't have to cook again. All you do is heat them up. So on nights when the kids have activities this is a great way to give them a home-cooked meal without fussing all over again.

The other thing about one pot meals is that the clean-up is minimal. One pot, no clean-up and you're out the door in an instant.

If you work during the week you can always make these kinds of dishes on the weekend and heat them up during the week. Food will usually last at least four days in the refrigerator. Usually with one pot meals like soups and stews the longer they sit the better they taste.

The following stew I made the other day and we're having the leftovers tonight. Stew is always a hit with my family.


One pot: cuts down on the clean-up!


Beef Stew

3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat
2 Tablespoons cooking oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme (crush in hand before adding)
3 cups of vegetable juice
1 teaspoon instant beef boullion granules
Few dashes of hot sauce
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 1/2 cups of sliced celery
1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
1 cup of green beans (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon salt

In a plastic bag combine flour and salt. Add meat cubes, a few at a time, shaking to coat. In a large pot brown meat in the hot oil. Add onion, garlic and thyme. Cook until onion is translucent, but not brown. Stir in vegetable juice, boullion, hot sauce, and 1 cup water. Bring to boiling point; reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 2 hours or till meat is tender. Stir in potatoes, celery, green beans, and carrot. Cover and simmer 30 to 45 minutes more. Skim off fat.

This will serve 6.

I doubled this recipe to get two meals.

This stew was a hit with my husband and daughter. The best part is I don't have to cook tonight and they will still get a great home-cooked meal. All I do is heat it on the stove and dinner is served. Again, one pot, so my clean-up will be minimal this evening.

So try soups and stews. It's easy on you. Best of all it's healthy and your family will love it! I guarantee it will be a hit with your family too.

Nothing like a hot meal to come home to after a long day!

Men In The Kitchen: It Doesn't Always Have To Be A Nightmare

I think one of the things that attracted me to my husband 17 years ago was his ability to cook. I mean cook in the kitchen, of course!

It's such a nice thing for men to be able to have a few dishes they are able to prepare. Because let's face it -- every now and then the wife will get sick. It's nice to be able to rely on your husband to feed the kids without going to McDonald's or some other fast food joint.

Now I'm not saying my husband can cook everything, but he can hold his own in the kitchen. He makes a mean stir fry. He also makes a wonderful dill pickle soup. Now I know that sounds awful, but it is one of the best soups you will ever have!

In fact, I am half Polish and my husband, who isn't Polish, made this soup for me when we were dating. I never heard of this soup before he mentioned it to me. Greg had seen the recipe in the newspaper, kept it and had the guts and ability to make it. What a brave guy! I thought I would hate it, but to my amazement it was just terrific. I was so sure I would have to come up with some kind of little white lie so I wouldn't hurt his feelings. To my astonishment I absolutely loved it!

Well, it's been over 17 years and we're still eating and enjoying it! Our daughter, Nicole, has been eating and loving it since she was very small. In fact, she bugs her dad to make it as often as he can. You see, even men can start traditions. I give full credit for this recipe to my husband, Greg. I'm sure he doesn't realize how special he makes us feel when he makes this soup for us.

The following recipe is a little more involved than my previous ones, but it is well worth it. This one you may want to make on the weekends when you aren't too busy.

Glorified Polish Dill Pickle Soup

11 cups water
1 pound fresh kielbasa (NOT smoked)
1 cup cold water
3 medium potatoes -- washed, peeled, and finely chopped
3 carrots -- scrubbed, finely chopped
1 medium onion -- peeled, ends removed and finely chopped
2 ribs celery -- finely chopped, including leaves
1 large dill pickle, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/4 teaspoon seasoned pepper
1 Tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup quick cooking barley
1 cup dill pickle juice
2 cups sour cream (16 ounces)

In a large soup pot, bring 11 cups of water to a boil. Reduce heat and add the kielbasa. Cover and simmer for one hour, skimming foam as necessary. Remove kielbasa and coarsely chop; return to pot. Add potatoes, carrots, onion, celery, pickle, bay leaf, seasoned salt, garlic salt, seasoned pepper, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and barley. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and add the pickle juice. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes more.

Just before serving, pour one cup (8 ounces) of the broth into a small bowl. Scoop sour cream into a separate small bowl. Temper the sour cream by stirring in one tablespoon of broth at a time until the cup of broth is gone. Now add the tempered sour cream into the soup pot and heat; do NOT let the soup boil or it will curdle. Makes 8 to 10 large servings.

Now ladies, your kitchen may look like WWII just happened there, but let your husbands in the kitchen too. My daughter will have many happy memories of not just my home-cooked meals, but also her dad's. What a nice thing for a man to do for the people he loves the most. Flowers are nice, but there is nothing like a home-cooked meal and a night off for the special ladies in their lives. It comes from the heart and what could be better than that?

So come on guys -- roll up your sleeves and get in the kitchen! My husband is the perfect example of a man's ability to make a wonderful meal for his family. Why does it always have to be the wife? Give your wives or girlfriends a night off and see if she doesn't appreciate it!


Men: Don't be afraid of the kitchen!

Get yourself a nice big loaf of crusty bread and a big bowl of Dill Pickle Soup. It's nice on a cold blustery day!

Enjoy the soup -- we sure do!!!

Thanks Greg!