foodcritic

Just for fun

2012-01-16T13:37:00.002-06:00

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A Good Day

2011-12-08T11:37:00.004-06:00

I woke up this morning to the radio playing "In the Mood", a boogie-woogie song Dad used to play on the guitar. It was like an omen of how the day would unfold. Then, someone on FB posted a link to an experiment done in the DC metro. Joshua Bell (I love his music) playing like a street musician as commuters barely noticed. The date was Jan.12. Our wedding anniversary. I just checked my grades for the class I took. 98% overall. Not bad considering the final paper I attempted to write was one I just couldn't get into. I'll take it. The sun is out. I'll take that too.
I have decided that I am done being down with the lemons life has thrown us lately. I look at the little gifts that happen during the day and draw strength from it. Because life goes on and why lose years of life worrying?

Colorado

2011-12-07T14:15:00.003-06:00

This Thanksgiving, I had the unique experience of being a guest in my daughter's home. This is the first time she has ever had room for anyone to come and stay since she left home for college. I left my hard-working husband to fend for himself while I hied off to spend time with her and her husband J. It was a wonderfully relaxed visit. We managed to cook a turkey that tasted good. This of course was only the second time I had ever cooked one. All the side dishes and an apple pie that met with approval was made at the last moment. ( No room in the oven because of said turkey).
During the visit, we managed to mall it later in the day, Friday, and came away pretty much unscathed. Shopping it seems is still not my bag unless I have something in mind. Ally took me to Red Rocks, a spectacular venue with natural acoustics. Many famous artists have performed there as evidenced by the yearly lists displayed on the walls.
I had my first ever visit to Rocky Mountain National Park and a drive through its windy, snowy roads took us to Bear Lake. Despite the below 0 degree wind chill and not so warm shoes, we made our way to the lake. I have come to realize that holding Ally's arm so as not to slip, we have transcended another tier in our relationship. While the mountains are magnificent, my relationship with my daughter is even more so.

Memories of Harry Potter

2011-10-11T06:46:00.002-05:00

"Just downloaded all 7 Harry Potter books for the trip to Europe...its like car rides together in the car! Mom, you would hate it! :)".....
This was the text message I got last night from Ally. When we would go on 14 hour road trips to Rochester, we would listen to these books on tape. I remember the reader's "Haaary"... and I would also tune out the story as I am not a fan. I am a reader but I just could not get into those books. My family on the other hand, loved everything about those Potter books. While I did not particularly enjoy listening to the stories, I miss those car rides together.

Gel Pen

2011-09-21T20:26:00.004-05:00

I bought a package of Gel Pens a couple of weeks ago. The other day, I opened up the package because I had to write out a check. As soon as I felt the smooth glide of the pen, my immediate thought was that Dad would have loved this pen. Living so far away from family, at times, I think that he is just there. At home. But then, I know he is not. I wonder when this pain of missing him will go away.

the girl and the fig

2011-07-17T20:51:00.005-05:00

sardine appetizer
goat cheese sampler.
three selections of local & imported artisan goat cheese, seasonal fruit & baguette.
quiche lorraine.
matchstick frites, summer bean salad.
hair strand

As a reward for flying over to babysit my precious nephew. A trip to Napa was promised.
That promise was fulfilled the third weekend of my stay. We had lunch at The Girl and the Fig, a restaurant that had been written up as having wonderful food. The food, indeed, was delicious until... a long hair from the quiche was pulled out of my mouth. That experience took the wind out of my sails a bit. What was interesting was the noncommittal reaction of our server. So, we just simply paid our bill and left. Must be that popular restaurants do not feel it is important to have returning customers especially in a tourist town.

Dimsum

2011-07-16T21:00:00.002-05:00

Siomai,
Hakao (sp?)
Charsiu Pork
Spinach and Garlic Hakao (sp?)
2 kinds of Pao
shrimp
sticky rice/noodle thingy

Had to address the craving for dimsum. Can't get it in good ol' Galena. Don't get me wrong;
I love living in our small town but there are times when I wish I could get these little heavenly
morsels. I wanted to eat more but my bellyful told me to stop. Of course, later, I had tea with
homemade cherry pie courtesy of Gigi. While I am getting some good exercise bending and lifting
baby J., as well as taking him for walks, the food extravaganza is not helping my waistline. Oh well...

Sashimi

2011-07-15T12:56:00.002-05:00

Fresh tuna,salmon,octopus
Soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger, slivered radish

Dragon roll, cucumber roll,seaweed salad

Last night's dinner was Japanese food. It is such a treat to have such fresh tasting food that I cannot generally get living in Galena. While our town has a Japanese restaurant, the food doesn't quite taste the same perhaps because of the easy accessibility to the water but then again, it may just be my imagination. Nevertheless, it was delicious. I am thankful for the glimpse of diverse living during my stay here in San Mateo.

California Girl

2011-07-14T11:30:00.002-05:00

I am spending 3 weeks in California. The main purpose is to get to know my little nephew Julan while both his parents work their summer jobs. I had forgotten how much energy one can expend caring for a little one.We read books, go for walks, play, eat, and rest among other things. As I get to know the city of San Mateo, we venture out further. While Steve swelters in the Midwest, I don my jacket because of the cool mist and air. During my stay, I look forward to getting some dental work done.Thanks, Jit!! You are a magician! I also have gotten together with high school classmates, some, I haven't seen in 38 years. How can time fly so fast? Rose, who used to live in Iowa has taken me around to see parts of California I haven't seen before. We spent an afternoon in Santana Row and Cupertino. I look forward to seeing Carol A. so we can catch up with life and compare notes on how our schools are alike and different. I am also hoping to spend some time in wine country. Sonoma, here we come! Finally, I look forward to going home. They say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. That is true because I walk around with a hole in my heart when we are not together. I guess I am not a California girl after all. I just like to visit.

Hope

2011-05-16T18:08:00.002-05:00

It was a strange feeling riding in with Steve this morning. The last time we had driven in to work was three years ago. A lot has happened since then. He moved to NY after having been laid off the first time. Dad died, I finished my MA, Bryan came home from his Rotary year abroad, and Ally got engaged.We lived apart for thirteen months until he was laid off again. Bryan went off to college, we connected up to the sewer( a major expense, I'll have you know),Ally got married,Mom and I went to EU, Steve and Bryan joined us in EU,I started a new position, and started a second MA, Ally moved to Denver and Jason stayed in Pennsylvania. All the while Steve had been unemployed. In an effort to stay together in this small Midwestern area, our solution has been for him to obtain several sub positions both as a teacher and as a paraprofessional. Between all the towns that surround us, the hope is that he will get a call for daily work. That first call did materialize the same day he plugged it into Subfinder. He worked today and he was glad.There is hope.

Texas Caviar

2011-02-20T10:12:00.002-06:00

Texas Caviar

2 cans yellow/white corn
1 can black eyed peas
1 can garbanzo beans
1 jar pimiento
1 small can green chilies

Drain all of the above and add:

1 large green pepper, chopped finely
1 large onion, chopped finely

Marinade:

2 tsp salt,
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cup cider vinegar
2 cups sugar

Bring marinade to a boil; stir to make sure sugar is dissolved. Cool slightly and
pour over vegetable mixture. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 8 hours.
Drain off liquid prior to serving. Serve with Scoop chips or cracker of your choice.
Serves 8-10. Courtesy of my friend, Deb Glab.

This time last week, Steve and I were preparing for a small birthday dinner party.
Our wonderful neighbors and friends came over to share the beginning of a new year for me.
Good food and company as well as good wine made it a memorable evening. We really must
emerge from our hermit-like existence during the winter.

Stuffed Shells

2011-02-18T21:28:00.000-06:00

Toffli

1 box large shells.
Cook according to instructions on the box.

1 lb.ground beef, browned.
1 8 oz pkg. cream cheese
1 pkg frozen spinach, thawed.

Mix 3 ingredients while meat is still hot.
Stuff shells with mixture.

Pour homemade spaghetti sauce over the shells and
bake until warm. 350 degrees for about 30 minutes.

Toffli is Steve's childhood name for the stuffed shells. I do not know how to spell
it but all the same, the end result is that the dish tastes delicious.

My birthday treat for my colleagues was a lunch prepared by Steve,of course.
We enjoyed Toffli and homemade cannoli for dessert.
I continue to be thankful for the friendship and camaraderie amongst the
people I work with.

Honey

2010-09-09T17:42:00.003-05:00

As I was getting ready to go to school, Steve greeted me with a lit sparkler, left over from our daughter, Allyson's June wedding festivities.He said,"Happy Thursday".It made my day.

Melon Gelato

2010-08-24T19:50:00.003-05:00

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup filtered or bottled water
1 cantaloupe
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Heat sugar and water until sugar is dissolved.
Cut rind off the melon, cube it then puree in food processor.
Measure 2 cups of melon and stir in syrup and lemon juice.
Chill mixture until cold. Freeze until set. Serve while semi-frozen.

One month ago today, mom and I were treated to a hotel stay at the Sheraton at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam to await Steve and Bryan's arrival. Our stay was a haven. Mom and I were tired from traveling for 3 weeks already and our first hotel stay in Europe was a rather questionable hotel in downtown Amsterdam. Our wonderful friends Urot and Ok decided to make arrangements for the rest of our stay in Amsterdam and Geldrop so as not to have any more negative experiences. Steve and Bryan's plane arrived pretty much on schedule. We rented a car and proceeded to drive to Geldrop some two hours away. We arrived unscathed despite our inexperience or rather Steve's inexperience driving in Europe. I navigated. :)

The purpose of our visit to Geldrop was to celebrate our friend Ok's retirement and birthday.
Samantha, my goddaughter took me for a bike ride(I was the passenger) around town. Urot happened to be in Eindhoven shopping and would meet us later.

We went to the grocer for wings (yes! Dutch wings!) and sandwiches for our supper. The party was the next day so we went to bed early.

Dublin to Amsterdam

2010-07-05T20:20:00.000-05:00

Day 2 Grand Tour

In Dublin, we went through immigration and had to wait 6 hours for our flight to Amsterdam.
Our impression of the airport. Friendly staff. Freezing cold temps in our waiting area. When we arrived in Amsterdam, we took the train from Schiphol Airport to Centraal Station. We waited 90 minutes for our turn to make reservations for our train to Paris. We didn't realize how expensive reservations were despite our Eurail passes. Extra cost was 62 Euros!

Mom and I then took the tram to Westmaarkt, then walked to the Galerij Hotel. The hotel was a bit questionable for our standards. mom and I walked up 72 winding narrow stairs to our room. Whilte the sheets and towels smelled of fabric softener, there were holes in them. The bathroom was clean, toilet was out in the hallway. There was no clock, no window screens and it was very warm. We have to catch a tram back to Centraal Station so we can catch the train to Brussels at 7:54am. I didn't sleep much. Jet lag plus no alarm clock and worrying about how to carry mom's and my luggage down the winding stairs without us falling down them. I think about these things and tend to let my imagination run wild. What can I say.

Irish Butter

2010-07-04T13:24:00.000-05:00

Day 1 Grand Tour

Aer Lingus supper
Baked chicken
steamed vegetables
Roll
coffee/tea/water

Our flight from Chicago to Dublin was uneventful.

The Grand Tour

2010-07-01T18:22:00.002-05:00

I am about to embark on a trip that may make or break me. After the death of our dad, I promised myself that I would fulfill my parents' dream of going to Lourdes and Rome to visit the many holy sites my parents always dreamed of visiting.On Sunday, the 4th, mom and I leave for Europe to do just that. I am mindboggled by flights, train schedules, hotel reservations and the thought of spending money that at the moment Steve and I don't have. Our daughter, Allyson was married last Saturday. While our friends in Galena came through with housing relatives, arranging flowers,and lending a dance floor,musical talent donated by our gracious band teacher by playing the trumpet, and our equally talented music teacher from my school singing lovely songs in operatic style, the reality of the other expenses are at the moment weighing heavily on my mind. The day turned out to be a lovely summer day, rainfree and sunny. Needless to say, weddings cost. By no means do Steve and I regret any part of it, but this trip really should have waited. But, time is not on our side. Mom is healthy enough to walk and enjoy the sights and I want her to be happy and live her dream. The holy sights will make her happy. I just have to figure out how I can manage baggage, Metros, important documents, and Mom by myself. I know Dad will be there in spirit to help me.

Anchovies on crackers

2010-02-19T21:15:00.002-06:00

1 can anchovies
crackers

Open anchovies, serve on your favorite crackers.

One year ago this week, we got news of Daddy's illness. Thank goodness Steve was home for a visit.
I remember having a feeling of disbelief and denial. I thought we still had lots of time with him. But, we didn't. I miss him.

Mozzarella Cheese

2010-02-14T21:17:00.002-06:00

1 gallon whole milk
1/4 tablet rennet(dissolved)
1 1/2 tsp. citric acid

Heat milk to 55 degrees, add citric acid while stirring.
Heat mixture to 90 gegrees, add rennet mixture. Stir up and down.
Heat to 105 degrees until curd start to form.
Drain curds and heat in microwave 1 minute. Knead like bread.
Heat again in microwave 35 seconds. Knead. Microwave 35 seconds again.
Knead until smooth and form into balls. Eat warm or cool in ice water. Enjoy!

I have been wanting to learn how to make cheese for a long time. Today, my birthday wish was to actually take the time and make mozzarella cheese. Strange that it may seem to some people who go all out celebrating their birthday and /or Valentine's day, that is what I wanted to do. The cheese looked like models of brains when they were formed into orbs. When sliced though, looked authentic and better yet, tasted great. It was a good day.

Egg Pie

2010-02-09T20:45:00.004-06:00

1 pie shell
1 stick butter, softened
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 can evaporated milk
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Cream butter, sugar and eggs. Add 1 can evaporated milk. Then the vanilla. Mix well and pour into the pie shell. Bake 45 minutes to 1 hour at 375 degrees.

One of my childhood memories was going to the Quiapo market with Mom. Then, we would go to the Chinese bakery and buy pilipit and egg pie. The pie would be boxed up and tied with string. It would get eaten up pretty quickly when we would get home. I remember Dad enjoying it too. This recipe does not quite taste the same, but after 30 years of living in North America, it is just going to have to do.

5 minute Mug Cake

2010-01-27T17:49:00.003-06:00

4 Tbsp. flour
4Tbsp. sugar
2Tbsp. cocoa
1 egg
3 Tbsp milk
3 Tbsp. oil
3 Tbsp. chocolate chips (optional)
teensy drop of vanilla
1 large coffee mug

Add dry ingredients to mug and mix well.
Add egg and mix.
Pour in milk and oil and mix again.
Add in chocolate chips and vanilla and mix.
Microwave for 3 minutes on high (1000 watts).
The cake will rise over the top of the mug but will settle down eventually. No worries!
Cool slightly and invert onto a plate.
Enjoy. Serves 1 generously or 2 if you have to share.

Courtesy of Anne Flores. Thanks, Anne.

2010 brings a renewed hope for life to settle down a bit. While last year was challenging to say the least, this new decade started off with Ally's birthday and continued planning for her wedding. Bryan has discovered a new life in Rochester, New York and was anxious to get back. He left a week early. It was hard to see him go but, I've always said that Steve and I have always raised our children to spread their wings and discover themselves and new places and people. Who are we to stop them. We love and miss them from afar. We cherish the times we have together, plan special meals and continue to build family memories while they are here. Then, we let them go. It is hard. I am thankful for cell phones, blackberries,Skype and FB. They don't seem so far away after all. I do miss their hugs. Technology cannot substitute for that.

Spiced Nuts

2009-12-28T17:11:00.006-06:00

2 Tbsp oil
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dried thyme, crumbled
1/2 tsp. rosemary, chopped finely
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
2 cups assorted nuts- walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, cashews,peanuts

Whisk all ingredients together except nuts. Coat nuts with mixture. Spread in a shallow baking pan.
Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees.Roast nuts in the middle of the oven. Keep in an airtight container. Serve warm or at room temperature.

2009 has proved to challenge my being both positively and not. Here are some highlights:
1. January: Ally turned 25. We greet her in Bangkok where she visited her brother. She gets engaged to Jason.
2. February: Steve comes home for my birthday. We receive news of my dad's illness.
3. March: Visit Steve in Rochester for his birthday. Spend time with Daddy and Mommy. Come home. Head back to Rochester to help care for Dad through his illness. Spend time with family as they arrive from around the world to spend Dad's last days with him.
4. April: Still with family in Rochester with the blessing of my principal. Thank goodness for an awesome teaching partner and student teacher. Bryan arrives home in time to say goodbye to his lolo. Dad goes to heaven on the 24th.
5. May: Return home to Galena to walk in my graduation ceremony and continue my school year.
6. June: Finish my school year. Garden. Mourn Dad's passing.
7. July: Steve home for the Fourth. One week later, Steve laid off. He is home for good by the 18th. Continue gardening.
8. August: Another school starts in Grade 5. We harvest garlic. It is good.
9. September: Involuntary Transfer to Kindergarten to start in one month. Numbers in Gr. 5 extremely small.
10. October: Kindergarten is WILD! Bryan turns 20.
11. November: Budget cuts in my school district eliminates a paid work day Wednesday before Thanksgiving.It is a gift of time so... Steve and I surprise Rochester family with a visit. The weather cooperated through the three Great Lakes we drove by.
12. December: Mourn Dad's passing. Steve continues to look for work. It is dismal out there. Ally and Bryan come home for Christmas. Family together.

I look forward to 2010.

One year later

2008-11-16T09:53:00.005-06:00

Ally and me

Daddy and Mommy

Ally and Steve

It has been almost one year to the day that I have posted an entry.
These have been my activities for the year.
1. Finish up the 07-08 school year teaching 3rd grade.
2. Move to a new grade level- grade 5.
3. Be a supportive partner while Steve finds a new job.
4. Bryan graduates from high school.
5. Continue graduate school. 2 summer classes.
6. Garden
7. See Steve off for his new job in Rochester.
8. See Bryan off for his exchange year in Bangkok.
9. Welcome our 5th exchange student into our home. Welcome Josef from Slovakia.
10. Start the new school year.
11. Take 2 more classes to continue graduate school.
12. Apply for a new job in the school district. Still pending...while I
13. Wait for conditional licenses in Early Childhood and Special Education
14. Write papers, do homework,
15. Life goes on...

Go Bryan!

2007-11-20T08:09:00.000-06:00

We are so proud of you.

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Interactive Poll
There were very brief flurries in Galena Monday, Nov. 5. When will the first major snowfall hit the area? Please select one:
	Before Dec. 1.
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	After Jan. 1.
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Celebrating a semifinal victory

Galena Pirate Brian McAuliff, 55, celebrates a 28-0 IHSA Class 1A semifinal victory over North Fulton last Saturday night. With the victory, Galena will play in the 1A championship game at 10 a.m. this Friday at Champaign. For more information click here.

Check this out

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

THIS JUST IN: Galena Pirates to play Tuscola Friday for Class 1A Championship

Pirate quarterback Gavin Kaiser is pushed out of bounds Saturday night after a big game.

LONDON MILLS-The Galena Pirates advanced to the Class 1A championship game with a 28-0 victory over North Fulton on Saturday, Nov. 18. It was the third shutout in four playoff games for the Pirates.

Galena takes on 12-1 Tuscola at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 23. Tuscola advanced by beating Arcola 48-6 Saturday afternoon. Forty-eight points is the fewest number of points Tuscola has scored in the playoffs.

Galena is one of two Upstate Illini Conference teams playing in the Championship. Dakota advanced with a 34-7 win over Orion.
Friday, November 16, 2007

Looking forward to Nouveau
by Cid Standifer
Ken Koester can't really remember how long ago he started driving the wagons for Nouveau, but he's sure it's been a long time. He started out helping his friend Tom Bruun, who was hired to take care of the wagons, but about five years ago Tom retired. Now Koester does the organizing, and Tom helps him.

For the annual festival, a set of horse-drawn wagons with bottles of wine parade through the Galena downtown area, stopping at local business to hand out the first fermented fruits of the grape harvest.

Every year now, Koester takes out some wagons - two of his own, and usually one that he's borrowed - and hitches up six of the horses he's raised on his farm, Koester Percherons in rural Scales Mound.

Community pitches in
by Cid Standifer
Janelle Williams' problems started with splitting headaches. They were so bad, they kept her away from her job as a florist at Elizabeth Market.

When her vision started to suffer, Williams went to see an eye doctor, thinking that she may need glasses. She was told that she had a retinal tear and needed to see another doctor.

On Oct. 3, Williams was diagnosed with ocular melanoma. In other words, there is a cancerous tumor growing behind her left eye.

As a single mom with two kids and no health insurance, life has been uncertain in the weeks since.

"It's hard at times," Williams admitted.

Spotlighting web safety
by Cid Standifer
"How many of you use instant messenger?" Chief Bryan Bohnsack of the Warren Police Department asked the eighth graders and high schoolers assembled at River Ridge on Thursday.

A sea of arms went up. At a glance, it seemed that every single student in the audience had raised their hand.

The question "How many of you are on Myspace or Facebook?" elicited a similar response.

This is why the Juvenile Justice Council has started a new program of presentations about Internet safety for students all over Jo Daviess County.

United Churches plan Thanksgiving

GALENA-The United Churches of Galena plans a community-wide Thanksgiving service at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 18-the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

This year's service will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, located two blocks up Hill Street (the first turn to the left) off of Main. Each year the service is held at a different church on a rotating basis. The church will be decorated with fall fruits and flowers.

The service this year will be quite unusual in that it will be the first time that all of the protestant churches of Galena have ever had a joint Holy Communion, Lord's Supper or Eucharist together as this service is referred to in the various denominational traditions.

Just the beginning of Judy's fight
by Jane Holland
Frustrated is an understatement. Especially when you consider that one doctor says "Go home and get your affairs in order" and the other says "I can help." It seems to be working but the insurance company won't help pay for the medicine-and it costs $4,500 each month.

"I would love to make people aware of the health care system," Judy Dixon, a former Galena bed and breakfast and Main Street business co-owner said. "I would love to maybe help somebody else when they are going through what I am going through."

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Pesto Pizza

2007-09-09T15:47:00.000-05:00

1 container prepared large biscuits
1 pkg. fresh mozzarella,sliced
2 heirloom tomatoes, homegrown and sliced
Homemade pesto

Smack to biscuit container against the counter for it to pop open. Pull apart the biscuits. Flatten them out like you would with pizza dough. On each flattened biscuit, spread pesto. Top with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.
Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Makes 8.

I have survived the first 2 weeks of school. Not just as the teacher but also as a student. I surprised myself by enjoying my class and being a vocal participant in the class discussion.The time must be right to be back in school despite my initial misgivings.

The class I have this year will challenge my teaching skills. Of my current 19 students, 3 are English Language Learners, 1 autistic who is high academically, 1 life skills, 4 multi-categorical,and 1 TAG (Talented and Gifted). I have to make sure I made accommodations for these students throughout the school day. I worry about the coming testing period for the special needs students as well as the rest of my students. I have to prepare them to do their best in order to meet this year's trajectory set by the the powers that be. I wish they would set foot in a classroom, not necessarily mine, in order to make realistic decisions that affect us all.

I propose that all those having the ability to make important decisions that affect education spend time teaching in a classroom. Not visit for 20 minutes but actually form, manage and teach a class for a good length of time. I believe that their eyes will be opened and perhaps they will allow the voices of those that actually touch and enrich the lives of these precious beings that we serve, be heard. Teachers need help dealing not just with academically challenged students but also with social, emotional and behavioral issues. I am a good teacher but I am frustrated with the amount of time it takes to deal with issues other than academics.

Tomatoes with Mozzarella and Basil

2007-08-21T18:15:00.000-05:00

2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
1 fresh mozzarella cheese ball, sliced
5 fresh basil leaves, cut into strips
olive oil
pinch kosher salt
fresh cracked pepper

Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a plate. Sprinkle basil over them. Drizzle with olive oil and add salt and pepper to taste.

Very easy and delicious!

Today is the last official day of my summer break. I did some fun things today. A friend and I did the downtown tourist thing that most locals in our town don't do. It was fun walking into the many shops that abound here. We had lunch at Vinny's. Something I rarely have a chance to do because Steve and I usually like to cook ourselves and lunch... well, that for other types of employment. If I'm lucky, I will get 20 minutes for lunch. Usually, it's between 10 and 15. But... we won't go there.

I am excited about starting a new school year with a new group of students to work with. I love the smell of school, of new books and of pencil shavings.

I realize too that 10 years ago this semester, I went back to school to get my teaching certificate. I look at the timing of going back to school as a good sign. 10 years ago, I did not have a job and we had tuition to pay, we made it back then. I guess we can do it again!

Thank you, Steve for all the support and encouragement.

Kropek

2007-08-20T15:05:00.000-05:00

Box of shrimp crackers
hot oil

Fry shrimp crackers a little at a time.
Eat.

A year ago today, I was cajoled by my sister, Chesca to start a blog. Today is my one year anniversary and I am celebrating it by writing a short one.

I have been making the most of my last two days before the beginning of the new school year. Actually, I am running the errands I would normally save for the weekend because by the time I get home from school, establishments like the bank and post office are closed.I went to lunch and had the most delicious chicken salad sandwich. It had cranberries and mesclun lettuce with it.
I have enrolled for graduate school online and made arrangements for orientation and registration. I am actually biting the bullet and attempting to finish graduate school. It is an expensive endeavor as there are no public universities or colleges in our small tri-state area. I hope I can handle the work load of teaching school, going to school, and Bryan's senior year school activities. As well as paying that blankety-blank tuition bill! I'll keep you posted...

Sticky Rice with Mango

2007-08-18T15:38:00.000-05:00

2 cups sticky rice, soaked overnight
2 cups coconut cream
1 cup sugar
pinch salt
2 mangoes, sliced into strips
sesame seeds, toasted

Steam rice for 15 minutes. Mix coconut cream and sugar until dissolved.
Stir half of the mixture into the sticky rice.
Scoop rice mixture onto dishes and top with sliced mangoes.
Garnish with sesame seeds.
Serve remaining coconut sauce on the side.
Makes 4.

Steve and I have just returned from a visit to one of our favorite places in the world. The Bay Area. Eight days of a break from the Midwestern heat, visiting with college friends some,we had not seen in almost 30 years, and spending the final days of our stay with Teddy and Gigi.

The only hiccup in our plans was the difficulty we experienced with airlines but I won't go into that. Needless to say, travelers these days experience a variety of situations related to getting to where they have to go.

Our stay in Salinas was filled with multicultural meals. Mexican, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, and seafood. Hey, we were by the water, we HAD to have seafood. Reacquainting ourselves with Raja and Deanne ,who generously housed us during our stay, seeing Stella and getting to know her son, and of course,Carol, who has come to Galena to visit and naturally, it was good to see her. Of course, we thought of Liz and Charlie who were unable to join us due to family emergencies.

Our visit with our UP friends started out with shopping in Gilroy (the garlic capital- yes, the smell of garlic permeates all over). We even got to eat garlic ice cream; which was very good. Raja took us to Point Lobos and we walked along the coastal bluffs. Saw all sorts of sea and bird life. Then on to San Juan Bautista Mission. It had this wonderful old church that smelled like the churches in the Philippines when we were growing up. Some of the tiles on the floor had footprints of animals that had stepped in it when the tiles were formed all those years ago. The flowers in the gardens were beautiful and the cemetery in the back was intriguing. Along the back of this mission runs the San Andreas Fault.We also spend a whole day at the Monterey Aquarium. We saw all the various feedings throughout the day. We also observed Samuel (Stella's 11 year old son) enjoy his first scuba diving lesson in the tidal pool.

Raja graciously took us back to San Mateo so Steve and I could resume our visit with Teddy and Gigi.We had actually started out with them and Teddy (and Gigi) drove us to Gilroy. They took us around Half Moon Bay and there, I sat on the beach for maybe five minutes. (It was cold.)Then, we walked along very high cliffs overlooking the ocean where the trees are bent permanently in the direction of the wind. That was really cool.Gigi drove us to Pescadero, a small town they like very much. I liked it too with its off the beaten path feeling.
We took the train in to San Francisco and had a to-die-for meal of dimsum in Chinatown. I still dream of the shrimp dimsum. Chinatown was filled with people going about their daily lives. If I didn't know better, I would have thought we were in Hong Kong or China.
Our last night, Gigi cooked a delicious homemade soup along with a dish she created with orange chicken. Stephen Labrador joined us and we talked to Chesca via computer video.

Teddy, Gigi, and Steve had to test their patience while they waited for me to get some major dental work out of the way too. Thanks, Jit. I won't go into it. All I will say is: my lower teeth are beautiful!

On our last afternoon, Gigi took me to see her school. I think she and I were mentally preparing ourselves for school to start. Granted we work with different aged students, yet the mental preparation is the same for many of us educators. Her school has a lot of green space, something our school lacks partly because of our northern climate. Her classroom is large and open with lots of counter and storage space (is the grass greener on the other side?)I got to meet the librarians and one of the teachers she collaborates with. It was nice getting to see a California school.

Steve and I arrived back home to find our house still standing. Our son (left alone for the first time as a teenager) unharmed and unhurt from football. He had strong support people to rely on while we were gone.

California is lovely and I think I could live there if I could have a garden. In the mean time, I'll keep gardening where I am. Ok, I'll teach too.

Pesto

2007-07-15T15:06:00.000-05:00

4 cups basil
1 1/2 handfuls walnuts
2 cloves garlic
2 handfuls parmesan cheese
kosher salt
fresh ground pepper
around 1/3-1/2 cups olive oil

Summer break is flying by. I just realized that 5 weeks has passed since the last day of school and I have another 5 weeks left before I have to report back.
I just took stock of how I have been spending my summer.
-I have planted a field of zinnias and sunflowers. In between them, I have cabbages, bok choy, tomatoes,and dill. I have planted pots of tomatoes and basil as well in the hopes of extending the season.I have pulled piles of weeds and composted them. I have wandered aimlessly among the flowers. I have dug up and split 5 ways 75 clumps of hosta and shared them with friends and neighbors.
-I have read A Thousand Splendid Suns, What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary day, Night, and I am in the process of reading Infidel. During the school year, in spite of encouraging my students to read, read, read, I find that I have little time to practice what I preach.
-I stepped out of my comfort zone and drove Bryan 815 miles for a college visit and 950 miles back. Along the way, I got a chance to have great conversations with him and reaffirmed that he is turning out to be a very nice young man , listened to Harry Potter on tape, visited parents both Steve's and mine,touched base with old friends, visited sisters and their families on the way home,and gardened and played with nieces and got to know them better. One swear word(wrong turn in Pittsburgh)is not bad coming from a reluctant and nervous driver such as me. I would say it was a fruitful trip.
-I have started both my Christmas shopping as well as my Back to School shopping. I buy necessities for my students as well as my last remaining child in school.
-I just made my first batch of pesto. Every Saturday for as long as I can find basil in large quantities in the markets, I will make it. It is one of the scents of summer that I long for in the winter.

I guess my summer is not as lazed away as I thought.

KFC

2007-06-29T18:29:00.000-05:00

15 crunchy pcs. thighs and legs
1 bowl gravy
$12.99

Pittsburgh,PA. We are 1/3 of the way home from our trek to Rochester. We made it there in 15 hours. The first 2 hours were driven with my hands in a strangle grip on the steering wheel. As my right leg was starting to feel numb, I realized that I could use the cruise control. By 6am, the sun was struggling to emerge as it was a very cloudy day. Actually, a good day to travel east to as not to squint into the sunrise.(Less wrinkles). Bryan was a supportive navigator. He opened up my oj and sandwich and didn't complain when we had to make numerous bladder stops. After noticing my yawns, he offered to drive but I opted to get an extra large Starbucks and that really helped wake up. I was on a roll. We did get sidetracked in Cleveland by missing an exit but we found our way back aand proceeded on. We made it to Ra cha cha by 7pm. It did feel good to be able to finally face my driving demons.

As we get ready for the major part of our journey home, the KFC Chesca fed us was a bit of comfort food. It was a special treat growing up in the Philippines. None the less, the thought of driving in Chicago again is daunting. Part of me wants to try and drive straight through if we are on a roll again. It is good to know that we have options. We can stay the night at Peggy's. Thank goodness for sisters. What would I do without you?!?!

Adobo

2007-06-22T16:16:00.000-05:00

2lbs. chicken, cut up
garlic
vinegar
soy sauce
sugar
bay leaf

Classic adobo. According to Bryan, his lolo makes the best adobo. No matter how well I make this dish, it still cannot compare. On Sunday, (a day and a half from now), Bryan and I go on a road trip to Rochester. One of the reasons for going is a college visit and the other is to visit family. Honestly, I am freaked out about the long road trip which we have never done without Steve. I have decided to just take it easy and when I feel tired, no matter where we are, we will stop and take a break or if necessary spend the night. I am definitely stepping out of my box by doing this. Expeditionary learning at its best!

Inihaw

2007-06-17T17:45:00.000-05:00

1 kilo tadiang, sliced, salted and peppered
vinegar
garlic, minced
steamed rice
charcoal

Over hot charcoal, grill the the pork tadiang until done. Serve dipped in vinegar with garlic and a mouthful of rice. Delicious.

Daddy always liked to cook. My memories of Kamias are many yet one that stands out are the days when he would cook the pork over the tiny hibachi grill we had on the washout. He would sit on an overturned metal Magnolia ice cream bucket and make paypay the charcoal with a piece of cardboard to keep it going. Understand that the charcoal did not have such modern amenities as pre-soaked or in briquets. They were merely pieces of burned wood. In the mean time, the rice would be cooking. When the pork was done, we would sit down either at the table with the benches in the kitchen or have a picnic in the side yard, eating over banana leaves with our fingers. It was a feast!
Today, my parents live in Rochester, NY and have for many years. Daddy continues to love to cook. I look forward to the meals he will prepare for us when we come for a visit in a week. I know that I can always rely on having a good meal when he cooks. Thanks, Dad. I love you.
Happy Father's Day.

Churros

2007-06-15T15:15:00.000-05:00

1 cup flour
1 cup boiling water
pinch salt

Mix together. Put mixture in the star shape of a cookie press.
Fry in oil until golden brown. Then roll in sugar. Serve immediately.

After a long absence, I am back. School ended for me a week ago this time. We were sent home early because of a tornado threat. Yes, a tornado threat. It was boiling hot in my classroom and most of the day, I was just gathering odds and ends and storing them away, hoping that I will remember where I put them come August. I was thankful that the days prior to the end of the school year, I had balanced shutting down my classroom with the help of my students and continuing to conduct lessons. Two days before school ended, I gave my students two spelling tests and had a division math lesson with them. While other classes were showing movies and having parties, yes, I was having regular classes. As a matter of fact, on the last day of school, after our mini celebration, my students were reading poetry out loud to increase their fluency in reading.
Honestly, my students reminded me about the spelling tests and the unfinished math lesson. Who am I to discourage more classroom learning? I gave myself a pat on the back for that. I am proud of the fact that I had instilled in my students the focus and drive to continue learning.
Of course, realistically, once they walked out the school doors as third graders and played all summer long, I'm sure the last thing on their minds was school. Yet, I remain hopeful that they will retain something that I had taught them.
Why churros? I think I learned to cook churros as a third grader. Auntie Lin showed me how and I remember it to this day. There is hope.

This is What Makes Me Happy

2007-05-27T22:02:00.001-05:00

Cafe Latte

2007-03-12T16:44:00.000-05:00

2 shots espresso
1 cup warmed milk
sugar to taste
coffee steamer

Mix three ingredients together and steam to desired frothiness.
Serve immediately.

Steve loves to cook. Today, he has prepared from scratch fried chicken, rice and sweet corn. A winter picnic probably inspired by the 74 degree day we had. After my day at school and my hour long professional development math meeting, I get home and he is getting it ready. He has had an equally long day. In the thirteen years he's been at this job, it has developed into two full time jobs. He is on 7 days a week sometimes. His hard work has pulled the newspaper he works for into the 21st century. Many people (including myself) think that the website he develops every day is done by the click of a button. Not so. He writes code, takes photos and video, and thinks of ideas to improve content. He is the go to guy when stuff happens related to the site. These days he is a part of a team that is working on the installation of two new computer systems. Needless to say, he is just a tad busy. Yet, he has time to cook us dinner because he wants to.
I don't say it enough times. Thanks for all that you do for us. You're the best. I love you.
Happy birthday.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

2007-03-01T17:17:00.000-06:00

For Peter.

1 lb macaroni , cook as directed.
1 can tuna fish,drained
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 soup can milk
1 cup grated cheese
salt and pepper

Mix all ingredients in the cooked macaroni, top with grated cheese.
Bake for 20-30 minutes or until center is warm and cheese is melted and brown around the edges at 350 degrees.

Courtesy of Richie Torres circa 1973. Hope my memory hasn't failed me.

My brother Peter always liked to cook. I remember him making Pan de Sal French toast in the wee hours of the morning. He would also cook mainstream dishes at non-mainstream hours of the day. I hope this dish helps him remember the good days growing up in Kamias Rd. I miss you.
I am saving up $$ to visit you. :)

French Bread

2007-02-25T13:22:00.001-06:00

2 packages active dry yeast
21/2 c warm water (105-115 degrees F)
1 Tbsp salt
1 Tbsp butter, melted
7 c. all purpose flour
1/4 c cornmeal
1 egg white
1 Tbsp cold water

Dissolve yeast in warm water in warmed bowl. Add salt butter and flour. Mix then knead until well blended. Dough will be sticky. Place in a greased bowl turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. (1hour)
Punch dough down and divide in half. Roll each half into 12 x 15 rectangle. Roll dough tightly tapering the ends. Place in greased baking sheets that have been dusted with cornmeal. Cover and let rise again until doubled. (1 hour)
Make 4 diagonal cuts on top of each loaf and bake at 450 degrees for 25 minutes. Make an egg wash and brush each loaf with mixture for an additional 5 minutes. Let cool on wire racks.

The weather outside has been frightful. We've had rain, freezing rain, sleet, snow , ice, lightning and thunder all in one day. It continues on a smaller scale today. I believe I am on my way to being severely depressed brought on by the extreme cold from a week ago, then THIS! What blocks this depression is the anticipation on a trip to Paris with Chesca. I have bookmarked the hotel we are staying in and even if I've seen it before, looking at the site makes me happy. I also have bookmarked to website of the Parisian transportation system to familiarize myself with it. By my bedside are my birthday gifts from Steve. Eyewitness Book Paris and a small English-French dictionary. I will survive this winter after all. By the time April rolls around, it will be Paris and spring.

Lambanog

2007-02-14T18:23:00.000-06:00

Lambanog is an alcoholic beverage known for its potency (it is sold in 80 or 90 proof variations). It is primarily produced in the Quezon Province of the Philippines.

The process begins with the coconut tree -- "the tree of life."
As with most fruit-bearing trees, flowers turn into the fruit.
Lambanog making trees never produce fruit, because it is the sap from the coconut flower that is the crucial ingredient for this unique coconut wine.
Plantation workers called mangagarit climb the coconut trees every afternoon to prune the flowers so that their sap drips into bamboo receptacles called tukil.
(This process is analogous to rubber tree tapping.)
The next morning, the mangagarit returns to collect the sap from these receptacles.
The sap is then put through a cooking or fermentation process, which produces a popular coconut toddy called tuba.
The tuba is then taken and distilled to produce lambanog.
Until recently, lambanog was primarily an local drink, much like home-made apple cider or backwoods moonshine.
Lambanog is widely enjoyed by the locals of the Quezon province, and festive occasions are incomplete without the traditional "tagayan" or group-drinking.
While the "tagayan" can take on different forms, the most common kind involves taking turns drinking out of a single glass set in the middle of the group.

Because coconut trees abound throughout the Philippines, and because the process of distilling lambanog from tuba is a relatively inexpensive process, it is known as a poor man’s drink. Farmers often wind down by drinking lambanog after a long day’s work.

In Quezon, drinking lambanog is usually a communal thing – men and Karen sit around in a circle and take turns drinking shots from a cup placed in the middle of the group.
Usually, there is also someone singing and playing the guitar to add to the festivities;
he takes his turn at drinking too, so the music gets more interesting as the drinking goes on.

My sister Karen and I share a birthday. We have been known to be quite opposite of each other. Karen is a fearless driver and I am a fearful one.
She is a graceful swimmer and I am well.. I attempt to swim.
She can dance effortlessly and I dance with great effort.
Karen is outgoing and I am not.
She can drink the strong stuff and I pretty much stick to wine.
She can hold her own with more than one drink and I am asleep after one.

My sister Karen and I share a birthday. We do have similarities too.
We love the same people.
The same people love us.
We both teach.
We are teachable.
We are strong in the face of adversity.
When adversity stands in our way, we make it work for us.
We adjust.

I have heard stories from others who share a birthday with a sibling. They seem to feel that the day is less special because it is shared. I have always loved the fact that Karen was born the year I turned 9 years old. She is the gift I received for my birthday that year and every year after that.

Ice Cubes

2007-02-06T20:29:00.000-06:00

Ice cube tray of any design
Water

Fill tray with water. Walk carefully to the freezer and pop in till frozen.
Use as needed. Don't forget to refill.

It was 18 below zero yesterday without the wind chill. Classes were not canceled. The car complained when it was started but performed admirably despite its age. It has been almost two weeks since this weather has been super cold. Punxutawny Phil apparently did not see his shadow. I'm not holding my breath for spring to come early. At this point, I just want the temperature to be above 0 degrees.

Snowy Apricot Bars

2007-01-15T08:28:00.000-06:00

6 oz. dried apricots
1/2 c firm margarine
1/2 c sugar
2 1/2 c Bisquick

2 c brown sugar, packed
4 eggs, beaten
2/3 c bisquick
1 tsp vanilla
chopped walnuts (may be omitted)

Powdered sugar

Place apricots in a saucepan. Add water to cover. Heat to boiling, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 min. Drain, cool, chop and reserve.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cut margarine into sugar and 2 1/2 c bisquick until crumbly. Pat into ungreased jelly roll pan (15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1) Bake 10 min. Beat brown sugar and eggs. Stir in apricots, 2/3 c bisquick, vanilla and nuts. Spread over baked layer Bake 30 min longer. Cool completely, cut into bars (2x1 in)Roll into powdered sugar. Makes 75 cookies.

Recipe courtesy of Rosemary McAuliff and Bisquick

It snowed overnight. I heard the plows through the night. This morning, it looks like what the natives here consider Christmas. I, on the other hand, did not mind a snowless Xmas. I guess I should be ok with it snowing considering it IS the middle of January and spring officially start in about 2 months. In the mean time, I scour the half-price flower bunches and buy myself flowers. After all, I must keep my sanity so I can garden this spring. The flower and seed catalogs also keep hope alive that spring will return. I wonder though if winter will hang on with a vengeance because we had such a long reprieve from the cold and snow.

Creme Brule with Raspberries

2007-01-12T18:20:00.000-06:00

6 TBSP raspberry jam
1/2 pint fresh raspberries

6 large egg yolks
6 TBSP sugar
1 tsp vanilla (the real stuff)
1 1/2 cups whipping cream

6 tsp. sugar (brown or white)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
In 6 ramekins,spread 1 tsp. each raspberry jam and press 7 fresh raspberries into the jam.

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, vanilla and cream together. Divide the mixture among the 6 ramekins. Bake in a bano maria for 35-40 minutes. Insert knife into the center and it should be come out fairly clean.
Before serving, sprinkle itsp on top of the custard and broil until the sugar has caramelized but not too burnt. Serve with raspberries as a garnish.

Today is our 27th anniversary. Permit me to reminisce a bit. I remember when we were so poor that our first landlord bluntly asked us how we were going to pay the rent. At that time, Steve was earning $4.50/hour and I was earning $6o every 2 weeks. Despite that, we WERE able to pay the rent and I was able to squirrel away $800.00 (secretly kept in the pocket of my old softball team jacket in our closet.That money sent Steve home to the Philippines to defend his thesis for his soon to be lost Master's Degree.) Nevertheless, we were happy there. It was home. We were so proud of our acquisitions. An old electrical crate became our coffee table and a twin bed sufficed.Steve's mom's old boss gave us a bunch of stuff like an ironing board, some spices, and other things I don't recall. After all, that was 27 years ago.
Three and a half years later, our landlord, (the same one) did not renew our lease because Ally was on the way and NO CHILDREN ALLOWED was specified in the lease. I know the laws were changed after that because I believe these days, that clause would be illegal.
So, we moved to Main Street in Pittsford. The new place seemed like a mansion compared to our teeny apartment on Oxford Street. It actually had the same number of rooms as our old place but each room was twice the size.The living room served the purpose of bedroom for Mommy when she came to stay for a bit when Ally was born. It was a convenient, pleasant place to live. We were happy there except on snowy days when our trusty old Chevette could not make it up our driveway because of the incline. By that time, I was working at Hick's and McCarthy. A traditional diner in the true sense of the word. Steve was still working at an investment firm selling mutual funds. I also went into selling real estate at some point then.( I continued to work at Hick's too). I am never one to rely on the unknown. Full commission jobs are just too iffy for me.
We came to know of this house on Rosedale Street through a colleague in Peter Brizee's office and we were able to assume the mortgage of that house without bank approval. The interest was 13.5 % and our payments were $880.00. The house was a dilapidated eyesore. It obviously needed a lot of work. But, it was ours. I think both sets of parents were appalled but nothing could change our mind. It's funny that after a couple of years, Steve and I tried to refinance to a lower interest rate which would mean lower payments. The bank told us that we did not qualify because we did not make enough money. We worked on the house little by little eventually replacing the furnace , kitchen, bathroom, family room,lower half bath and front and back porch. Bryan was born in '89. The parents were living with us. We had a great neighborhood. Our neighbors were great up until the time we moved to Galena when one of our neighbors kinda went nuts.They were great years.
Then we moved to the Midwest. We now have an old brick house (1854) that we work on little by little. The work needed was different from our first house. We've had to do tuckpointing, a new roof, some plumbing and a little porch work. Not as drastic as Rosedale. As we continue to live here in good ol' Galena, I realize that life has been good to us. We have prospered in our careers and our children have brought us great joy. Their achievements are our achievements. I have broken down these years by house/home. It seems that every time we moved, it was an upward movement.I hope to continue on this upward movement despite the fact that I don't see us moving for several more years.Happy anniversary, Steve. Thanks for sticking it out with me through thick and thin.

Chicken Marsala

2007-01-01T20:23:00.000-06:00

4 chicken breasts, pounded and flattened
1 egg, lightly beaten
flour, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, basil
olive oil
butter
6 cloves garlic
beef broth
marsala wine

Saute 6 cloves garlic in olive oil/butter mixture.
Dip chicken in egg,dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture. Brown in the olive oil /butter mixture.
Set Aside.

Marsala sauce

Mash the 6 cloves garlic
Add beef broth and marsala wine. Add the browned chicken and serve.

Chicken Marsala is one of our daughter, Allyson's favorite meals. We would have cooked it today for her because it is her 23rd birthday today. In our family, the celebrant requests whatever meal they want for the occasion. This is the first birthday she has celebrated without us.We did not cook it today because she is not with us today. She is back "home" in Philadelphia because of her work. This passage of time (which goes way too fast) is not something I like but I have to accept. We raise our children to be hardworking, honest, and pleasant people who, if we do our jobs right, will make their mark in society in a positive way. Allyson is making her father, brother and me very proud of who she has turned out to be. A beautiful person who has taken on the challenge of working with at-risk teenagers in the inner city of Philadelphia. She is giving back to society before she has benefited from society.She works 65 hours a week developing programs and curriculum for these young people she works with.
Ally, we don't say it often enough. We are so proud of you and your achievements. Keep up the good work. We miss you very much but you have to do what you have to do. Happy birthday. Love you.

Raw oysters

2006-12-16T07:12:00.000-06:00

12 raw oysters on the half shell
vinegar
hot sauce

Drizzle vinegar and hot sauce on each oyster. Eat and enjoy!

Our Key West weekend has been carrying me through the month of December. After the extreme busyness of November, (progress reports were due, this year is the first year everything is done electronically).Taking that break was a welcome relief. The beach was beautiful. The weather was perfect. The food eclectic and company was easygoing and fun.
The onset of December has brought the end of my training of a student teacher who turned out to be outstanding. Therefore I miss her. Her extra pair of eyes and hands to help out in the classroom. She was the reason I could go to Key West. The preparation to leave my classroom for three days was nominal as she knew the lessons, the routine and my students.
The prospect of the holiday season excites my students and it takes a lot of energy to keep them focused on their lessons.Heck, they are third graders. They should be a little squirrelly this time of year.Yet, I continue to implement reading strategies to increase comprehension and math skills. Finding the balance of acknowledging that it is Christmastime and pretending that it is not here is challenging.
We have 4 more days before the holiday break. Will I make it?

Playoff Breakfast

2006-11-04T07:36:00.000-06:00

30 dozen eggs, scrambled
10 packages cream cheese, cut into cubes

30 lbs. potatoes, boiled
6 loaves bread, toasted
2 lbs. butter

4 gallons juice, any kind
80 1/2 pint containers of milk

4 jars strawberry jam
4 jars applesauce

Prepare accordingly.

The Galena High School football team ended their regular season undefeated. They went 9-0. During the post season, the pasta supper has been served up by one of the restaurants in town. Breakfast before the game has traditionally been prepared by volunteer parents at the school cafeteria.Other parents line the main road ( that the other team will take) with signs of all the names of the players, coaches and cheerleaders.The atmosphere, while cooking and setting up the signs, is one of camaraderie and cooperation and fun.We prepare for about one and one-half hours. It takes about 15 minutes for the 80 members of the team to eat.
Interestingly enough, when the players are all together sharing their morning meal, they speak in quiet tones amongst each other. They clean up after themselves and make it a point to return to the serving line to thank us.It is gratifying to be a part of this community. They have won one playoff game and are on to another. Thankfully, it is here at home. Wish our team especially #55 good luck for today's game. He has worked hard all year for this season.See his action shot on the thonline.com website.

Pandesal French Toast

2006-10-26T08:14:00.000-05:00

Walk to Mengs and get pandesal.
Mix KLIM with water.
Add one egg.
Slice pandesal and dip in egg and milk mixture.
Fry till golden brown.
Eat with Karo Syrup.

When I think of French Toast, I think of my youngest brother, Peter.
He was always a great cook and a great eater.
I remember him frying up pieces of chicken for a snack late at night.
I also remember his love for toasted bread.

Happy Birthday Peter.

P.S. LLLovely LLLittle LLLolo and LLLola.

Rice

2006-10-24T07:04:00.000-05:00

Measure 4 cups of uncooked milagrosa rice
add water (dip middle finger in, water should be up to the knuckle)
bring to a boil and then turn heat to low.
do not forget about it, otherwise major tutong happens.
turn off when it looks cooked.

alternative plan: get an automatic rice cooker.

Today is my brother Teddy's birthday.
One of my memories of him as a child was of him always asking me to tuck his shirt in for him. I was his big sister, so of course I obliged--albeit reluctantly.
Luckily, he does not need me to tuck his shirt in for him anymore, but I will always be here for him.

Happy birthday, Teddy.

Steak and Lobster

2006-10-17T20:53:00.000-05:00

1 lb. NY strip steak
1 lb lobster tail

Broil the steak until medium rare. Drop the lobster tail in boiling water for 5 minutes. Finish off under the broiler. Serve lobster with melted brown butter.

17 years ago, there was an earthquake in Northridge CA. It was a big one that destroyed highways and property. That same day, on a sleety, dark, drizzly day, Bryan was born. He has grown up to be a well-rounded, hard-working young man who has a knack of talking very easily to the young and old. His loves are history, baseball, football and his lolo among other people and things.He works hard at all that he does. We are so proud of his achievements. Keep it up. Happy Birthday. We love you.

PB and J (again)

2006-10-16T19:59:00.000-05:00

2 pcs. bread
1 tsp. peanut butter ( creamy)
1 tsp jelly ( preferably grape)

Spread PB and J on one side of the bread and top with the other. Keeps indefinitely.

I love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. As you know, it is my mainstay for school lunch should I lose my lunch break.

I spoke to Ally yesterday. Over the weekend, she, along with 4 other volunteers had made 800 PB and J sandwiches to serve people doing an AIDS walk in Philadelphia. Other volunteers made another 1200 sandwiches for this walk. In addition to the time put in making the PB and J, Ally had just put in a 60 hour work week. All this for a living stipend of around $140 per week. Nevertheless, she loves what she does and continues to speak highly of the program and staff that she works with.She is learning a lot, honing up on her leadership skills as well as her marketing skills (she has to make presentations and recruit for city-year). More power to her!!!
I am so proud of her. Needless to say, though, she cannot look at another PB and J sandwich for a long time.

Shortbread Cookies

2006-10-05T20:04:00.000-05:00

1 lb. real butter (do not substitute)
1 cup sugar
5 cups flour

Soften butter to room temperature.
Cream butter and sugar together till light and fluffy.
Add flour by hand or pastry blender. Do not use a mixer as the mixture will get tough.
Press into 2 8-inch pans (greased). Prick the tops with a fork.
Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. It should be golden brown and firm to touch.
Cut while still warm, then let cool.

Dunk in milk or take a bite then a sip of milk. Yummy!

I remember the day you were born. I waited by the gate to hear the news. I wanted a sister so desperately. I remember crying when I was told you were a boy. Luckily, it was a trick.You added another dimension to my life. How wonderful for me. I'm sorry I was not always there for you.We were separated by time, then distance. I am here for you now and always. I love you.

Happy Birthday, Peggy.

Pasta Supper

2006-10-01T07:52:00.000-05:00

Sauce:
15 lbs. ground beef
5 big jars(the biggest you can find)of Ragu

Pasta:
10 lbs. penne

Garlic bread:
10 12-count packages

Salad:
10 bags salad mix
3 bottles dressing

Dessert:
50 bar cookies of any kind

Drinks:
6 gallons milk
3 gallons juice
3 bottles red wine ( for the chefs)

Serves 50 massive teenagers and their coaches

The husband and I have been volunteered by our youngest offspring to provide a pasta dinner, along with another parent, for the varsity football team. Senior parents usually provide this traditional meal on Thursday night before a game. Somehow by osmosis ( the foreign exchange student at our school is a senior. He doesn't stay with us but every Sunday, he comes to church with us) Bryan thought that we should be a part of this tradition. I love it that he trusts us completely. That we would step up to do this for him. And we will. Wish us luck this Thursday.

Genesee Valley Apple Crumb Pie (Revised)

2006-09-23T15:03:00.000-05:00

Filling: 6 unpared sliced apples
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
pinch salt

Crumb topping: 1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup flour

Filling: 1.Fill the crust with apples
2.Sprinkle salt, sugar and
cinnamon.

Crumb Topping: 1. Cream butter and sugar.
2. Spoon mixture on top of pie.
3. Place in preheated oven(450 F)for 10 min. Then reduce heat to
350 F for 30 minutes.

Crust: Buy one!

Recipe courtesy of Applehood and Motherpie by the Junior League of Rochester
copyright 1981

September 21 was the first day of fall. Fall makes me want to plant hundreds of bulbs. Tulips, daffodils, alliums, lilies to name a few. I think it is survival. The thought of winter daunts me every year that I live in North America. Planting spring flowers makes me look forward to the blooms and when the temperature dips to minus 0, I think of the garden in the spring. If I didn't, I think I would be very unhappy all the winter months.
Many times, I think about moving south, but spring flowers keep me in the northern region.I actually like four season gardening. It is chilly today. My nose and feet are cold.I feel winter coming.Hopefully I will survive another one.

Peanut Butter and Jelly on Wheat

2006-09-22T17:29:00.000-05:00

On two pieces of wheat bread,
spread one side with your favorite type of PB(crunchy, extra crunchy or creamy)
On the other side, some grape jelly or your choice of jelly, mine being grape.
Slap together and eat at your leisure.

When experiencing a harried week like mine has been, my answer to a healthy lunch is PB and J on wheat.
The wheat provides the necessary roughage, the PB- protein and jelly to satisfy the sweet tooth in me.

My supposedly 25 minutes of duty free lunch is most often never so.
My students are to be downstairs in the lunch line at 12:00 sharp and they should have gone through by 12:02 as that is the designated time for the next class to come through.
Many times, technology lets us down and the lunch cards cannot be scanned ( they have to be handwritten and entered at a later time when said computer is up and running again) or the younger grades are running late, therefore backing subsequent lunch eaters.
When such things happen, I whip out my PB and J and start eating because even if I am still monitoring my kids; my "duty-free" lunch minutes are ticking away.
There have been times that 7 minutes is all I've gotten and I've barely had time to chew my food. It is getting better though as our school year approaches its 5th week.
When is our next holiday?

Grilled Nuttella

2006-09-15T17:38:00.000-05:00

Slather on butter on two pieces of bread while a frying pan is preheating.
On the unbuttered side of both pieces of bread, slather on Nuttella.
Lay the buttered side down in the hot pan and cook until a golden brown.
Eat immediately.

I called Mommy in San Mateo today to greet her on her birthday.
She sounded upbeat and happy.
Thinking about elderly parents making the 12000 (?) mile trip Down Under,
makes me realize that it is quite a spunky thing to do.
I hope the trip is good and they have a good time.

Fudge

2006-09-11T20:15:00.000-05:00

Nothing is simpler to make than fudge if you have the right ingredients.
(recipe to follow)
Eating fudge equates to happiness depending on the circumstances.

Yesterday, after speaking to both our children, we realized that at that moment in time, both our kids were happy and satisfied with their lives.
Our son, from having played successfully in a winning football game and the yankees being number 1 in the league
Our daughter, despite the poverty she is experiencing because of her year of service, is realizing what a great program she is in and what great life experiences she is gaining.

It is gratifying as a parent to know that their children are happy.

Green Eggs and Ham

2006-09-07T20:54:00.000-05:00

Crack open two organic eggs.
add some milk and scramble together with bits of ham.
Squeeze green food coloring into the mixture.
Salt and cracked pepper to taste.
cook over medium heat.

When I was a preschool teacher, on Dr. Seuss's birthday, I would prepare green eggs and ham for my students.
The preparation itself was a math lesson because we weighed the eggs and measured out milk.
Eye- hand coordination was practiced when cutting the ham using child safe utensils and turning the pepper grinder.
Cooking these ingredients together and observing the changes that take place is a science lesson.
This simple recipe is like life.
There are multiple lessons in simple experiences and they are ones that we remember the most.

Raw Eggs and Rice

2006-09-04T08:07:00.000-05:00

Break an egg over hot steaming rice.
Add salt to taste and mix together.

Food is one of the three basic necessities of life. It is needed to survive.
As a child, I was told to eat everything that I put on my plate.
Choice of entrees was not an option except if it was raw egg and rice.

If I did not feel like eating the food that was prepared, the choice was not to eat or have raw egg and rice. Now I realize, that I had choices after all.
I never felt like I had choices growing up. Good to know.

Beans

2006-08-20T17:31:00.000-05:00

kidney beans, white beans, pork and beans, all served with rice.
Beans were a staple at our house growing up.
I chalked it up to the fact that cooking was not a joyous occasion for the cooker. And beans were an easy meal.

Instead, it was a matter of survival.
Beans supply protein. An ingredient needed by the body to grow strong bones and muscle.
Growing up, if one was stout, it was a sign of prosperity.
I was skin and bones despite the beans.
We were not prosperous, I guess.
Good thing I didn't know it then.
I actually like beans today.
Surprising because of the frequency of the meal.
I don't have it often, though.