Wednesday, August 4, 2010

KitchenAid Kitchen Gadgets - Pasta Press or Pasta Roller

Search Amazon.com for kitchenaid pasta press

Search Amazon.com for kitchenaid stand mixer


I recently saw the Pasta Press or Pasta Extruder for KitchenAid Stand Mixers in the Williams and Sonoma catalogue and have been trying to decide if I need yet another kitchen gadget.

After reviewing the pros and cons of each KitchenAid pasta attachment, I think unfortunately, I've decided I almost have to have both! 

The Pasta Press is different from the other pasta attachments for the KitchenAid mixer because it actually makes 6 different kinds of pasta dough - spaghetti noodles already formed and cut (2 sizes), macaroni noodles already formed and cut (2 sizes) and 2 other popular types of pasta - fusilli and bucatini. 

The ease with which this pasta attachment works is incredible - watch the video and see if you don't think you could use one of these great little machines!

KitchenAid-Pasta-Gadgets-Pasta-Press-or-Pasta-Roller

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

How to Make Walnut Waffles

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This is a super quick and easy waffle recipe that is light and crispy - and loaded with good-for-you walnuts. 

The beaten egg whites lend the lightness and crispiness to this recipe for waffles, but I decided to add in some walnuts just for fun and see how it turned out.  The result was one of my best tweaks ever and have decided this is my all-time favorite waffle recipe.

Try some of the other variations or serving suggestions - you can't go wrong!  These are also excellent dessert or dinner waffles.

Easy-Breakfast-Recipe-Walnut-Waffles

Monday, August 2, 2010

How To Legally Use Images, Videos, Charts and Graphs on Hubpages and Blogs

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There seems to be a lot of confusion about how we can legally use images, videos, charts and graphs whether we are writing on hubpages or writing blogs in general.

After these questions had been bothering me for a while, I decided to look deeper into the questions and try and resolve them in my own mind.  I came up with the following information and hope that you will find it helpful on how to legally use images, videos, charts and graphs on the Internet.

How to Legally Use Images, Videos, Charts and Graphs on Hubpages and on The Internet

Saturday, July 31, 2010

A Day at the Beach: My Boogie Boarding Story

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I have had many comedic water experiences in my life, but this one has to be about the best one ever! I grew up loving the ocean in San Diego, California and lived for my times out beyond the breakers.  I have to admit though growing up, I did not do any body surfing and certainly never did boogie boarding.

However, when my brother-in-law Rudy challenged me to try out boogie boarding in my 30s, I could not let the dare go by without trying - much to my chagrin with the usual comedic results.

A-Day-At-the-Beach-My-Boogie-Boarding-Story

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Healthy Recipes - How to Make Oatmeal Muffins

Here's a great recipe for an old fashioned muffin but a healthy recipe - how to make oatmeal muffins with numerous variations.

Healthy recipes start with healthy ingredients and this one is loaded with good things - such as buttermilk and oats - quick or regular.

You can add blueberries or nuts - or both.  You can also add chopped apples or raisins.

Still further, you can add a dollop of apple or pumpkin butter to the center of these delicious little gems and have yourself a wonderfully delicious breakfast treat or an afternoon pick-me-up snack with tea or coffee.

Enjoy!

Healthy-Recipes-Oatmeal-Muffins

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

How To Teach Your Dog To Swim

I recently found out the hard way that I had forgotten some very basic steps to teaching my malamute Griffin how to swim.  On further reflection, I decided that I would go back and try it in a different and more relaxed manner to build up his confidence and thus ensure that he is comfortable as a swimmer.

Here is a hub on how to best teach your dog how to swim - and the wonderful benefits of water therapy for dogs.  Check out the wonderful resources as well and some of the fine products offered for fun in the water with your favorite canine!

How-To-Teach-Your-Dog-To-Swim

Search Amazon.com for dog life jacket large

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Favorite Funny Stories: A Day At The Lake

Recently, our daughter Kate, her husband Kevin and our middle son Patrick all traveled to Central Oregon for a visit.  During their stay, we did many and various things and had a great time.  Our last day trip was to Lake Billy Chinook last Saturday and here's how that turned out!  As usual, a bit of a day with Lucille Ball and company.

Favorite-Funny-Stories-A-Day-At-The-Lake

Search Amazon.com for swimming pools above ground

Favorite Funny Stories: The Whale Watching Adventure

Everyone who knows me knows that I am passionate about many things. One of those things is the Orca whales.  They are a marvelous thing of beauty and each and every time that I have seen them, I have been struck anew with what a privilege it is to see them in their natural habitat - I am speaking of the Orca pods of the beautiful Pacific Northwest and viewing them from San Juan Island.

However, one summer, I decided to arrange a special whale watching tour because my middle son, Patrick is severely visually impaired and although he had seen the whales many times, he had not really 'seen' them because they were too far off shore. 

What ensued was a Lucille Ball-like adventure on the prow of the whale watching ship we were on hoping to see the said Orcas up close and personal.

Favorite-Funny-Stories-The-Whale-Watching-Adventure

Search Amazon.com for whale watching

Healthy Recipes: Baked Chicken Flautas

If you love flautas (and who doesn't) you are going to love this recipe because it trims the fat and the calories both out of it by eliminating frying!

This is a delicious alternative to making fried flautas of any kind and also offers many tips on how to revamp the recipe according to ingredients and/or vegetarian options.

Try this recipe - you'll love it!

Healthy-Recipes-Baked-Chicken-Flautas
Search Amazon.com for mexican cookbook

Favorite Funny Stories: Diving In - The Story of the Pool

When I was 17 and very impressionable, I had just left home and was living in a religious group.  This was out of self-preservation I imagine at the time but I did not truly 'fit in' as well as I would like.  Especially confounding was one particular day when we as a group had all gone swimming and much to my embarrassment, when I stripped to my bathing suit, I was literally swarmed with young men - I had shown up in my only bathing suit - a bikini.

In my efforts to dissuade these boys from following me everywhere - literally - I decided to exit one of the swimming pools and move to another where some older folks were swimming.  In my haste, I did not realize that one pool was NOT the exact same as the other swimming pool but instead reversed.  Here is my story of my embarrassing moments!

Favorite-Funny-Stories-Diving-In-The-Story-of-the-Swimming-Pool

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Favorite Funny Stories: Boating Adventure on Lake Crescent

One of my favorite stories raising our children is about an eventful camping trip we took to the Olympic National Rain Forest where we camped at Lake Crescent. 

Our children at the time were about 10, 8 and 6 and Patrick, our middle child was born extremely visually impaired.  However, he was undaunted by his visual impairment and wanted to do everything his older brother could do.  When our son Jon went out on the lake with my husband, Pat was incensed.  He wanted to experience this too and so I was elected to take him out in a row boat to show him the 'ropes' so to speak.

What occurred was one of the funniest family stories we have - luckily an adventure that turned out happily and with no one getting hurt - but it was a hilarious trip down memory lane remembering that day and all that went with it!

Favorite-Funny-Stories-Boating-On-The-Lake-at-Lake-Crescent

Search Amazon.com for boats

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Learning Toys for Blind and Low Vision Kids

Learning toys for blind and low vision kids are basically the same ones that you would use for a perfectly sighted child - only the way that you use them perhaps may be a little different.

Having a child who is blind or low vision means that you have to think 'outside the box' when it comes to what is appropriate for them to play with and how they learn but it can be incorporated into a normal everyday family.

For instance, blind or low vision kids learn adaptive skills by playing with blocks, configuring puzzles (foam or regular), walking a low balance beam, watching a mobile, or even just listening to music.  They also love learning musical instruments, reading actual books or listening to audio books. 

A low-riding bike with training wheels, a big wheel, a trampoline - all of these common childhood toys can enhance a blind or low vision child's life and teach them things you may not even be aware of.

Toys with handles and knobs that teach sensory integration skills, games that test mental abilities such as who, what, where and why can teach a low vision or blind child in a subtle way about perceiving the world around them and will eventually give them invaluable skills to enter the world one day as an independent person.

For more ideas and thoughts on learning toys for blind and low vision kids, please see this link!
Learning-Toys-For-Blind-and-Low-Vision-Kids

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Favorite Funny Stories: Soccer Bloopers

One would think that starting to play sports at age 38 is a bit much.  Especially if that sport happens to be soccer.  All in all though, this experience serves as the back drop for my favorite funny stories and my soccer bloopers.

I never do anything halfway and am probably a type AAAA personality.  When I realized that I truly wanted to learn to play soccer, there was nothing to be done for it except to join a league - which I fondly refer to now as 'old lady soccer'. 

It was a truly wonderful experience, even through all the injuries, all the training, all the botched attempt to be athletic and actually be pathetic!  It taught me much though about the sport, about athleticism in general, and how to not be quite so hard on yourself.  It also taught me a lot in retrospect about being a team.

I grew up being forbidden to play sports - because I was a musician and because I was a girl.  I think that was perhaps some of the draw in wanting to play later in life - that and the fact that all 3 of our children played sports nonstop from a young age through high school and even into college.  I discovered that contrary to my family's knowledge, I loved sports and I had a keen understanding of many of them.  Unfortunately, my body didn't quite follow suit - and hence the perfect beginning for my favorite funny stories and soccer bloopers.

Just remember - you are never to old to try anything!  After I gave up soccer, I moved on to urban mushing!


http://hubpages.com/hub/Favorite-Funny-Stories-Soccer-Bloopers?done

Friday, May 21, 2010

Low Carb Healthy Recipes: Pork Tenderloin With Herbs

 If you want to make a dish that your family will love or you need a special recipe for an important occasion, it doesn't get much easier than this one! Try this low carb addition to healthy recipes with pork tenderloin and you will be amazed at the results.

Pork tenderloin has many less calories than a beef tenderloin and added to that, this is an extremely low carb dinner choice.  The recipe is for 4 servings and a pork tenderloin usually weighs in at about 1 pound.  It is a very lean meat and if cooked properly, as in this recipe, can be one of the most tender meats you will ever cook.

The trick is never to overcook - always use a meat thermometer.  This recipe probably takes 5 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook/let stand another 5 and slice.  It doesn't get much simpler than that!

The aroma while it is cooking is divine.  The blend of the herbs and mustard creates a mouth-watering blend to bring out the best in the pork tenderloin - all the while being low carb and one of the best healthy recipes I've discovered recently.

I actually found this recipe in a cookbook for people with diabetes but the recipe will stand for any diet and for anyone but check out some of the other recipes in the cookbook highlighted.  It is a wonderful cookbook for people with diabetes or people just trying to find healthy recipes.

Enjoy!

Low-Carb-Healthy-Recipes-Pork-Tenderloin

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Cooking Light Magazine's 7 Best Foods For Women

Cooking Light Magazine just published an article on the 7 best foods for women to eat on a regular basis and incorporate into their diet - however, I think that these same foods could be of equal benefit to men.  These highly recommended foods are cranberry juice or berries, kale, tomatoes, flax seed, Greek yogurt, walnuts, and salmon. 

With just a minimum of effort, these foods are easily combined with other foods to promote such health properties as fighting breast and cervical cancer, prostate cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease and lower your cholesterol - all naturally. 

Salmon, flax seed and walnuts are high in omega-3 fats that are so important in terms of heart disease but these same omega-3's are also vital in preventing osteoporosis and fighting breast cancer.

Kale and tomatoes are good for their vitamin K, vitamin C, lutein and their lycopene.  These as well fight heart disease and breast and cervical cancers.  Lutein is good for eye health.

Cranberry juice is great for preventing and treating urinary tract infections but also contains many antioxidants, as do the actual berry the cranberry.  They also help prevent kidney stones as well as give you natural antioxidants. 

Lastly, Greek yogurt is a food rich in protein and zero fat.  It promotes intestinal health as well as through its valuable proteins aids in weight loss, maintenance of muscle mass, and healthier aging. 

For more of the article, see my hub on hubpages!
http://hubpages.com/hub/Cooking-Light-Magazines-7-Best-Foods-For-Women?done

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Central Oregon Travel - Bend Oregon, Sunriver Oregon and the Paulina Plunge

If you are looking for a unique experience for a vacation memory, Central Oregon and in particular Bend Oregon and Sunriver Oregon are enchanting places to spend time.  You can find just about every level of outdoor activity you would like to participate in but there is one unique trip you will find nowhere else....the Paulina Plunge brought to you by a recreational company out of Bend Oregon.

The Paulina Plunge is a downhill waterfall mountain bike tour that is an all-day event but that will leave you speechless.  It is not strenuous and anyone from 4 to 70 can participate.  The company provides the mountain bikes, the helmets, buses you to the forest to begin the tour, and you can even order a fried chicken lunch delivered right to you on the tour.

It is a beautiful way to spend a day - it includes biking in about 4 segments each about 1-1/2 miles down forest roads to 4 to 6 waterfalls depending upon the runoff for the year.  The most wonderful part of the whole experience is that you can swim in the waterfalls and there are actually 2 natural water slides to partake of.  It is an experience you won't forget!

http://hubpages.com/hub/Central-Oregon-Travel-Bend-Oregon-Paulina-Plunge-Mountain-Bike-Tour?done

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Here's Your Sign - Answers From A Malamute Owner

I am constantly bombarded with the most insane questions when I take my 2 malamutes out and about - this is just a few of the ones that I get asked constantly - and what I wish I could say in return!

A take-off on Blue Collar Comedy - Here's Your Sign....hope you find it amusing.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Heres-Your-Sign-Comebacks-From-A-Malamute-Owner

Sex Drive, Coitus Interruptus and Our Naked Truth

In my late 20's, I discovered the power of being able to have a healthy sex drive - all because of my loving and encouraging husband.  However, on one particular night, this new side of me had some slightly comical and nearly disastrous results. 

As the kids say these days though - 'it's all good' - it turned out to be one of my most memorable voyages into becoming a fully evolved sexy woman.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Sex-Drive-Coitus-Interruptus-And-The-Naked-Truth?done

Friday, May 7, 2010

Central Oregon Vacation - Learn Urban Mushing and Dog Sledding

Whether you are on vacation in Central Oregon or live here, and want to learn a great way to exercise your dogs via urban mushing/dog scootering or dog sledding, Karen Yeargain of Tumnatki Siberians is your ticket to the experience of a lifetime. 

Recently, we participated with our Alaskan malamutes with Karen's Siberian huskies on an outing in Sisters Oregon in Central Oregon - not on vacation - but for the sheer pleasure of exercising our dogs and doing urban mushing.  It was a wonderful experience and only one of several we have participated in.

Dog sledding and urban mushing does not have to be confined to Siberian huskies or Alaskan malamutes - about any medium sized breed of dog can be trained to pull in this fashion as a form of great exercise - but the proper training is advised.

Central-Oregon-Vacation-Learn-Dog-Sledding-or-Urban-Mushing

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Sunriver Oregon

If you are looking for a wonderful place to go on vacation as a family, individually, a place to hold a wedding or social event, or even a place to schedule a seminar - Sunriver has it all.  Sunriver at any time of the year has the amazing ability to please anyone and everyone.  There are simply that many things to do.  In summer, you can horseback ride, river raft, golf, hike, fish and swim.  In winter, you can snowshoe, nordic and alpine ski, sled, ice skate, and enjoy the beautiful high desert Sunriver Lodge. 

Accommodations in Sunriver are unsurpassed in their amenities and their wide range of prices.  Most all come with everything you'll need to have a self-contained vacation as most come with well-stocked kitchens.  Most come with their own hot tub where you can gaze at the stars on a summer or winter night.  Most rentals also provide bikes to traverse the more than 35+ miles of bike paths surrounding Sunriver.

Sunriver by far is one of the ultimate resort communities because it feels like home rather than a stuffy resort.  However, that said, you can still wine and dine, enjoy such luxuries as a spa and a health club and all the outdoor activities that you can imagine without ever leaving Sunriver.  For convenience, there is a small mall in the center of town complete with several dining establishments and a wonderful bakery.  There are 2 small grocery stores within Sunriver, one of which has a gas station.  There are also 2 golf courses as part of Sunriver and many, many more in the surrounding communities.  Sunriver even has its own airstrip.

If you are looking for a wonderful place to vacation or schedule a business meeting, Sunriver is your place.  Happy vacationing and happy traveling!

Sunriver-Oregon

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

HubTrail Capstone: Oregon Travel

If you are looking for a vacation destination that is unlike any other and is still within the continental United States, look no further!  Oregon in its various regions has more than enough to please even the well-seasoned traveler.  From wild and panoramic ocean views to high mountain desert, to pristine mountain lakes to fantastic ski areas, from river rafting to mountain climbing, from fine dining to cultural arts, Oregon fits the bill.  Whatever you are looking for in a vacation, you will find it in Oregon. 

Hubtrail-Capstone-Oregon

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Smith Rock State Park in Central Oregon

Whether you are an avid rock climber or just love to hike or mountain bike, if you are ever in Central Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a must see!  It is oftentimes called the gem of the state parks in Central Oregon and is routinely visited by more than 500,000 rock climbers from all over the world per year.  On any given day 365 days per year, you will find many and varied visitors to the park making the 1/2 mile steep climb down to the canyon floor - whether it is to fish, to picnic, or to hike or rock climb.  Dogs are allowed but the leash law is strictly enforced - it is a $142 fine to have any dogs off leash.  Make sure you bring plenty of water as the climb back up the trail is grueling.  Also make sure you stick to all denoted paths as this is rattlesnake country and there is a danger at any time of running into one suddenly.  There is tent camping available just off one of the parking lots, which mostly is used by climbers, but there are many campgrounds in Central Oregon which can be located through the Bureau of Land Management.

Smith-Rock-State-Park-In-Beautiful-Central-Oregon

Monday, March 29, 2010

High Fiber Dried Apricot Bar Cookies

This is a super easy to make, delicious recipe featuring some of my favorite ingredients - and it is also a bar cookie high in fiber.  This recipe combines nuts, oats, dried apricots and honey in a delicious bar cookie that is ready in minutes.  You simply mix the ingredients, bake, cool and cut!  They also freeze like a dream.

Try some variations as suggested as well with other dried fruits.  You can't go wrong with this recipe - and it only has 2 tablespoons of flour in it.

High-Fiber-Honey-Oat-Bars

Pizza Made with Phyllo Dough, Feta Cheese, Basil and Tomatoes

This is a favorite recipe of mine from Cooking Light magazine though I try and change it up with what ingredients I happen to have on hand at the time.  The main ingredient though is the phyllo dough, which makes such a wonderfully crisp and light pizza.

This pizza also goes into the fridge and comes out crisp the next day!  It is very easy to make - just remember to thaw out the phyllo dough needed 2 hours before you assemble. 

Try it - I think you'll love it!

Phyllo-Dough-Pizza-Featuring-Feta-Basil-and-Tomatoes

How to Make a High Fiber Meatloaf

If you're looking for a simple meatloaf recipe that is also high in fiber, this is your recipe!  I tweaked this recipe from a couple of recipes I've used and because I did not like the way the high fiber addition of oat bran dried it out, I decided to add a secret ingredient that ended up doing the trick to bring back the moisture - Greek style nonfat yogurt.  It turned out marvelously - try it - I think you'll like it!

High-Fiber-Meatloaf-Recipe

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Lighter Oven Fried Chicken with Buttermilk

If you are looking for a great lighter but still delicious fried chicken copycat recipe, this is the one for you!

This recipe is revamped a bit from the one in Cooking Light and offers great taste without all the calories, the fat, and the sodium.  There is also a great recipe for coleslaw to serve with it.

Healthier-Fried-Chicken-Recipe-Made-With-Buttermilk?done

The Facts and Fiction about Nutrition

There are a million theories out there about good, sound nutrition and it is hard to know who is right and who is incorrect.  However, going back to basics and realizing that you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure out good nutrition is the key.  There are some basic things that we all can do naturally to improve our nutrition and that do not require any guidance whatsoever.

Basically, eating a diet as close to the food's natural state is always going to serve you well nutritionally.  For instance, 7-grain bread is perhaps not the healthy choice - not if it was processed.  Whole grain bread would probably be the more nutritious choice. 

Knowing how a food is prepared is also a key element in maintaining proper nutrition.  For the most part, as a rule, highly processed foods are not going to end up with much nutritional value in them at all.

Nutrition-Facts-And-Fiction?done

Saturday, March 27, 2010

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

A very beautiful area in Central Oregon that attracts many visitors per year is the famous John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.  This area is rich in history dating back 65 million years and there is much to learn here.  This is an area that is ripe with hiking, fishing and camping.  The scenery is also magnificent.

For a geological thrill, visit the Clarno Unit, the Painted Hills Unit and the Sheep Rock Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.  You will find much beauty there!

John-Day-National-Monument

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Griffin's Rhyme

I am not a poetry writer - in fact I marvel at other people who can write poems.  I even have gone so far as to say these words - "I can never write a poem" - nor would I try.

Lo and behold, today on awakening, 4 lines of a poem literally popped into my head and they just kept coming as the morning progressed until I found myself smack dab in the middle of a poem.

Here is my Griffin's Rhyme, all made possible by my beautiful puppy, Griffin the malamute.

Poem-A-Rhyme-For-Griffin-The-Malamute

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Tips on Cooking Healthy Meals

There is no substitute for good health and learning to cook lower fat, lower calorie, healthy meals is vital to maintaining good health.  It doesn't have to be painful either!

There are millions of recipes out there today that can replace old classic recipes and still taste wonderful - you can in fact have your cake and eat it too!

Here are some tips on how to enhance your meal preparation that are easy and manageable tasks - learn how to improve your nutrition through simple techniques and increase your skills in meal preparation.

Tips-on-Healthy-Cooking

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Prostate Health and PSA Testing

While PSA testing is not the end-all for detecting prostate cancer, it is a very good idea for all men over 50 to have this test performed yearly and if you are African-American or you are at high risk due to family history (in a brother or father), you should definitely begin testing at age 40.

This combined with a yearly digital rectal exam are the best ways to prevent prostate cancer or to detect it in the early stages and thus gain cure.  Prostate cancer is highly curable but it is best as with most cancers to detect it early.  PSA testing goes a long way towards that end, even though there is dispute about how accurate testing is in some individuals. 

If in question, consult your physician about testing needed for detection and keeping up with prostate health.

For-Men-Only-PSA-Testing-and-Prostate-Health

Saturday, March 20, 2010

How To Make Your Own Slider Rolls

This is a fantastically easy and nutritious way to make miniburger rolls from scratch - I made 12 with this recipe and a loaf of sandwich bread - both turned out magnificently.

If you'd like a successful recipe for bread, this is it! Enjoy.

Recipe-For-Homemade-Slider-Buns-or-Sandwich-Bread

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Fitness For Children

There is so much emphasis today on keeping our kids fit - when 15-33% of our children and adolescents are overweight, it is easy to see why there is such a need.  However, there is an easy way to get children fit and keep them fit - it is called participation.

Being a parent means being involved in all aspects of our children's lives and ensuring that they have the best shot at life we can give them.  The most important thing you can give them is their health and keeping them fit is part of that bigger picture. 

Involving children in organized sports or activities is an easy way to get them out and fit - it is also an excellent tool on which to build other skills such as interacting with others, being part of a team, etc.  However, even if families cannot afford organized sports or programs, there are other ways to introduce fitness as a family and ways to see progress instantaneously.

Fitness-For-Kids

Monday, March 15, 2010

Another Day In the Life of Griffin The Malamute and His 2 Senile Owners

What would a day be without a good story?  Here's my latest 2 - the life and times of 2 older people raising a malamute puppy.  Hopefully he will make it through the rest of his time with us with more hilarity.  We mean well - we just don't seem to be able to keep from letting our goofy personalities and senility get in the way!

Another-Day-In-the-Life-With-Griffin-The-Malamute

Thursday, March 11, 2010

St. Patrick's Day Crockpot Corned Beef and Cabbage

What could be simpler than cooking corned beef and cabbage for St. Patrick's Day in the crockpot?  Just put the ingredients together and 8-12 hours later, you will have a perfectly delicious dinner at the ready.

This is a great one pot meal and so easy to put together.  It is a delicious way to cook this traditional meal and it keeps the corned beef very moist and tender.

Try it this year and see if you don't agree - this is a breeze of a way to fix the old favorite!

Crockpot-Corned-Beef-and-Cabbage

Low-Fat Versus Low-Carb Diets - Which Is Better

I have to say I believe in a low-fat diet over a low-carb diet.  I know there is a lot of talk out there about how low-fat diets do nothing to aid in weight loss - but I disagree.  I think a low-fat diet combined with calorie counting (which is essential to ANY diet) is a great way to lose weight and then to maintain weight.  I also believe that the lower fat is an excellent bonus for people over 25-30 years old - and would significantly reduce many health problems and obesity in this country.

In a low-carb diet, you are forced to give up so many foods and just reintroducing them again usually spikes weight gain.  The other side effect of the low-carb diet is that when I tried this method of dieting, I did not feel good.  I felt off the entire time I was on it.  It did nothing to curb my appetite - in fact, it made it worse because I could not eat so many things!

In short, I vote for the low-fat diet over the low-carb diet - it just makes more sense on so many levels as I view the low-carb diet as a fad diet!

Benefits-Of-Low-Fat-Diets-Versus-Low-Carb-Diets

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

What is the Healthiest Diet?

Which diet is the 'best' and which diet is the healthiest out there?  Many say the South Beach Diet has all the components for weight loss and healthy eating; however, on a recent visit with my internal medicine physician, he raised some very interesting points and gave me the best dietary tips I have ever heard. 

It is about changing your eating patterns for a lifetime, not simply losing weight for a short-lived period of time or cutting out things entirely from your diet.  It is about moderation and being able to understand the concepts of fueling your body yet not overdoing that or underdoing that - great advice and so simple!

The-Diet-To-Last-A-Lifetime

Friday, March 5, 2010

Flatbread Pizza Recipe - Quick and Easy

I made this recipe up after I had been out at a local restaurant and had a flatbread appetizer.  It took me a while but I finally found the exact bread that I wanted - Lavash bread which I found at Trader Joe's.  It is just the right consistency (though you can use other flatbreads or even tortillas) for my recipe and the possibilities are endless as to what you can add.  I particularly like adding fresh salmon to this one as well.

Try it - you will love it - it can be a great appetizer warm or cold - or a light dinner - or a snack.

Lavash-or-Flat-Bread-Appetizer

How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) with Homeopathic and Naturopathic Remedies

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is classified as a cumulative trauma/repetitive use disorder.  It surprisingly hits a growing number of people though as we are a computer-driven society.  Even such things as playing a musical instrument or operating a jackhammer, however, can cause it as well.  It is never too late to learn new techniques to prevent it, treat it or cure it. 

These are homeopathic ways and naturopathic methods to treat this aggravating syndrome and hopefully avoid surgery.  It should always be kept in mind that even though surgery can be performed and the syndrome is 'cured' - it will recur and perhaps in a worsened state if the patient goes back to the activity that caused it in the first place.

Homeopathic-and-Naturopathic-Treatments-for-Carpal-Tunnel-Syndrome-CTS

Thursday, March 4, 2010

My First Massage Therapy Visit - Enter the Massage Nazi

I was not thrilled to be going to a massage therapist in the first place.  I am just too modest a person for my own good but when I finally accepted that I needed to get it done, no problem.  However, I did not realize that I was going to be having a date with the Massage Nazi!

How-My-First-Massage-Left-Me-With-A-Limp

When Massage Therapy Does Not Feel Like Massage Therapy

I finally did get totally enthralled by massage therapy and decided that I was invincible after a few years.  I could go anywhere and get a message if I needed it - little did I know that there was the Massage Nazi 2 out there waiting for me.

This is my recounting of the massage I will never forget - going to a pain level of 9 or 10 during a massage somehow seems contradictory but things just seem to happen sometimes.

Here is my story.

My-Next-Chapter-In-Massage-Therapy-Gone-Haywire

Do It Yourself Hot Rock Massage

If you are hooked on hot stone massage but can't seem to afford it these days with the down turn in the economy, here's a way you can still have your cake and eat it too!  Learn these simple techniques and perform hot stone massages on each other - save money and still feel good.

You can purchase hot stone massage kits on line at auctions or you can buy the kits on line at Amazon.com.  I have a friend who actually picked up all of her own stones along the beach in Canada.  You can also buy kits that heat the stones for you or you can improvise with a roasting pan or crockpot. 

Try it - I think you'll enjoy it!

Do-It-Yourself-Hot-Stone-Massage?done

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Defining TCM or Traditional Chinese Medicine

An alternative form of medicine to Western Medicine as we know it - TCM - or Traditional Chinese Medicine.  This is a philosophy that embraces acupressure, acupuncture and herbal healing to name a few of its components.  It is quickly gaining acceptance even in prescription-oriented America where health care providers are starting to see gains in treatment of diseases and especially 'functional disorders' with the use of these 2000-3000 year old techniques.

Defining-Traditional-Chinese-Medicine-or-TCM

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Natural Remedies to Treat Bronchitis

One of the worst things you can do if you have bronchitis is to try to suppress your cough  - funny how I never even thought about that.  You actually want to cough to get rid of the stuff that is congesting your lungs so all these over-the-counter cough medicines that are supposed to be good for chest congestion are actually working against you.  Having had my recent bout of bronchitis for over a week now, and becoming totally frustrated with the lack of progress (instead worsening) I was making, I decided to go in search of information on how to treat it naturally.

I found a lot of information but I can honestly say after trying just some of the techniques that I'd truthfully forgotten about (as I've had this off and on since childhood), I was amazed at how much better I feel already!  These are great tips on how to make it easier to get over your next bout of bronchitis!

Natural-Home-Remedies-To-Treat-Bronchitis

Simplest Home Remedies Ever - Needed 4 Ingredients

From a little book I was given a few months ago, I've been able to use many 'recipes' if you will for making my own green cleaning products, personal health care products, pet products and miscellaneous other products with 4 simple ingredients - salt, vinegar, lemons and baking soda.  What could be simpler?  And cheaper to use?

These products really work - especially wonderful was the skunked dog cleanser recipe!  Wow did that come in handy and did it work!  There are many clever ideas in this little book called Salt, Lemons, Vinegar and Baking Soda by Shea Zukowski - check it out.

Simple-Home-Remedies-Made-with-4-Common-Home-Ingredients?done

Monday, March 1, 2010

Comparison of Holistic Approaches to Medicine

Whether you embrace the tenets of alternative medicine or anthroposophical medicine, there are some very good points to be made for the overall comprehensive view these theories of medicine take to the human body.  In both of these sciences, it is believed that one portion of the body cannot function properly if another portion of the body or soul is out of alignment.  That would seem to be a fairly logical view, however, in conventional medicine, we are taught that to have a symptom must mean something is wrong and if we but treat that one thing that is wrong, we will be 'cured'. 

These are interesting philosophies of medicine and I believe they both have great merit.  When used in combination with conventional medical methods, it would stand to reason that people would be freer of disease and symptoms and if not completely cured, then at least more able to cope with the ravages of certain diseases. 

Comparison-of-Alternative-Medicine-and Anthroposophical Medicine

Mistletoe Extract and Its Fight Against Cancer

Mistletoe extract has been around for decades but it is now becoming widely recommended in the treatment of various and sundry kinds of cancer, although it must be stressed that this is not a 'cure' for cancer.  However, studies in Europe are proving that at the very least, this herbal remedy is reducing the side effects that most cancer patients experience and even if that is the 'only' thing that this herbal remedy can do, that is pretty remarkable.

Studies have shown that mistletoe extract improve patients' appetite, increase their energy levels and decrease their pain levels.  This is truly a remarkable adjunct to the conventional methods that we think of in the fight against cancer and I would only hope that in some fashion, our country will get on board in beginning trials with this powerful herb. 

People can obtain the extract on their own but it should be emphasized that the only successful way to use mistletoe extract is under the guidance of a qualified health professional.  There are clinics in larger cities here in the United States who are procuring it and administering it to their patients.  For more information, see this connection to the hub on herbal remedies - mistletoe extract.

Mistletoe-Extract-The-Herb-That-Works-Against-Cancer?

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Bob and Up On the Roof - Senility Hits Home

True to form for me these days, if given a job to do, I have a tendency to leap from one thing to another and somehow am not as easily able to multitask as I was before!  Unfortunately, sometimes it can have comedic consequences as my poor husband found out.

It was a simple task - all I had to do was answer the phone but somehow my blonde old lady brain because distracted by the fact that I suddenly remembered I had to clean the bathrooms for company that was coming. 

Here is my story of how poor Bob unfortunately paid the brunt of my flagging memory!

You-Know-You-Have-Become-Senile-When-Or-Up-On-The-Roof

The Easiest Perennial In The World To Grow - Basket of Gold or Yellow Alyssum

The-Easiest-To-Grow-Perennial-In-the-World-Basket-of-GoldIf you want a low-growing (12 inches maximum height but spreads 18 inches outward) that is beautifully sunny and yellow for weeks AND blooms again late summer, the Basket of Gold or Yellow Alyssum perennial is for you.

This little plant is hardier than you would think and survives drought and not only survives, but seeds itself.  It is a great front plant in a perennial garden and loves any place where it can 'drape'.  It is great in rock gardens and is easily multiplied as noted above just by seeding itself or collect the seeds and replant.  You can also make cuttings easily from this plant and have more and more.

In short, this is one durable little plant that is beautiful to look at cascading down slopes or from pots.  Butterflies and bees love it so give it a try! 

Tarragon Chicken

If you are looking for a quick and easy dinner for yourselves or for company, this dish fits the bill.  It is easily prepared and the combination of tarragon with chicken and wine is absolutely divine.  Serve this with a green salad and a vegetable followed with a light dessert and you will have a simple yet elegant dinner to present in little time.

This is a French recipe I have used for 30+ years from an old Betty Crocker International Cookbook.  I did not have dry white wine so substituted Marsala wine and it was equally delicious.

Tarragon-Chicken-Quick-and-Easy-Dinner-Idea

Butternut Squash Pizza

If you are into vegetable pizzas, this one is for you!  This is a delicious revamp of a recipe I recently tried on a personal pizza crust envelope.  The results were fantastic.  I as usual added all but the kitchen sink as I always like to add spinach and feta cheese to anything made with butternut squash but my daughter was pointing out that goat cheese would be good in the recipe too.  The addition of fresh basil leaves also made it absolutely marvelously delicious!

For a different kind of pizza, try this squash pizza recipe - I think you'll like it!

Butternut-Squash-and-Basil-Pizza

The Clarno Unit of The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a geological and topographical natural wonder.  It is located in Central Oregon and along with Sheep Rock and the beautiful Painted Hills, is worth the trip to observe nature at its wildest. 

The Clarno Unit is located near Fossil, Oregon and along the trails at this particular part of the monument, you can see the Blue Basin as well as see actual fossils embedded in the cliffs and the rocks. 

It is a wonderful part of the country to vacation in with activities from white water rafting, rock climbing to fishing and hunting in season but most people venture here for the climate - high mountain desert with beautiful dry sunny days and cool nights. 

Clarno-Unit-of-John-Day-Fossil-Beds-National-Monument

Therapeutic Hypothermia - The New Treatment for Cardiac Arrest

I've been hearing a lot about this new innovative treatment called therapeutic hypothermia for cardiac arrest but also in treating non-bleeding strokes and brain injuries.  So I decided to put on my investigative cap and go looking for more details.

It turns out that the technique has been in testing for years but in more recent years, they have now determined that moderate hypothermia can reverse or at least stop the effects caused by cardiac arrest and/or stroke whereas before they were using deep hypothermia.  This technique is showing great promise in the area of brain injury as well as birth asphyxia, thus reducing the complications of cerebral palsy in infants.

For more information, see the entire article but the most popular mode of therapy at the moment seems to be the Arctic Sun device, which is being used with great success. 

In a nation where more than 300,000 people suffer cardiac arrest per year and only about 10% survive coming home from the hospital, this could be a medical miracle!

Therapeutic-Hypothermia-How-It-Is-Saving-Lives

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Sheep Rock Unit of John Day National Monument - Central Oregon

If you are looking for a unique place to visit, the John Day National Monument won't set you back a hefty entrance fee but will knock your socks off in terms of incredible rock formations and colorful scenery.  The John Day National Monument is made up of 3 units and this is about only one of them.  The other two, Painted Hills and the Clarno Unit are also unique in their presentation and geological wonders all their own.  They are spread apart a bit but within easy driving distance - a delight at any time of the year to visit.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Sheep-Rock

Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna

If you are looking for a super delicious vegetarian lasagna with all the flavor in the world, this is the recipe!  This recipe is a fantastic version of an old favorite - completely meatless.  It is a delight out of the freezer or straight from the oven.  Add a green salad and some French bread, and you have a delicious meal.  This lasagna serves 8.

http://hubpages.com/hub/lasagna2

Chicken Florentine Lasagna

If you want a change from the ordinary lasagna and a lasagna that is better for you, try this recipe!  This is a wonderful combination of chicken, spinach, and lasagna.  It is also lighter in the calorie and fat department - and freezes like a dream.  Try it - I'm sure you will love it.

http://hubpages.com/hub/lasagna-1

Cheap Eats in the Bend Area of Central Oregon

With the economy being what it is, we are always looking for ways to cut costs and discovering several of the local area restaurants who offer super saver deals on fine dining is just one of them!  Here are my top 5 picks for the Bend, Redmond, Prineville area of Central Oregon!

http://hubpages.com/hub/experimenting-with-files

A Day In The Life - Raising Malamutes

Don't get me wrong - I love my malamutes.  I have a 9-month-old puppy in training (The Griffin) and an 8-year-old rescued malamute.  Both are the loves of our lives but on any given day, we can go from zero to chaos in 60 seconds.  This is just one such typical day.

http://hubpages.com/hub/A-Day-In-the-Life-of-a-Malamute-Owner

Find My Family - A Panacea or a Pandora's Box?

For the most part, I believe in the show Find My Family and the ideals that it seems to uphold.  However, in my case, I got a mixed bag when I went looking for my biological father when I turned 30.  I had a medical need to know situation and although it did not turn out as I had hoped or expected, I still have to say to this day that it was a positive experience because it did in fact give me a measure of the closure I so desperately needed regarding why he walked away. 

http://hubpages.com/hub/find-my-family

Clicker Training and Practical Applications

I have been training my malamute puppy for some time now and started clicker training about a month ago.  However, recently, I had an experience with Griffin that demanded instant release of an object (as in a huge piece of glass he had in his mouth).  This hub illustrates the positive effects of good clicker training and how it might have prevented a horrible outcome.

Also links to my original clicker training hub. 

http://hubpages.com/hub/clicker

City Slicker Meets Camping 101

When my husband and I were first dating, he was mad about camping and since I was mad about him, I decided to try it and see if I could 'grasp' it - with varying results over the years.  However, as in most things, you always remember 'your first' experience and this was a nightmare.  Oh well - I lived through it with humorous stories to tell afterwards.  Also included in my tale is a hilarious video from youtube on camping.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Teaching-a-City-Slicker-to-Camp-Who-Knew

Prime Rib Slow Cooker Chili

If you are looking for a super simple, tried and true recipe for chili, this is it!  You can also eliminate the meat and just make as a vegetarian chili as well or try some of the other suggested substitutions.  This recipe is made with pieces of leftover Prime Rib and think you'll like it!  Spice it up or down as much as you'd like but it doesn't get any simpler than this recipe.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Crockpot-Chili-with-Prime-Rib

Friday, February 5, 2010

The Dancing Fool In A Redneck Town

Okay - so it's my own fault - I moved to a 1-horse redneck town and for 5 years now, I've been trying to fit in - really I have!  It's just not my style - I am a southern California girl born and bred (enough said right there, eh?).  I'm getting really, really tired of having City Slicer written on my forehead no matter what I do here. 

One Friday night, I got myself into a bit of hot water down at the local tavern.  Fortunately, I did not become embroiled in any bar fights, though in retrospect, that might have been my first choice had I been a little more 'up' for the evening.  Instead, I found myself corralled so to speak into dancing with - wait for it - NOT the Marlboro Man (no - of course not) but instead Yosemite Sam!  Oy vey.....how do these things happen to me?

I was innocently sitting there sipping my beer after eating a 30 pound hamburger and lo and behold, before I knew what hit me, I had been volunteered to dance the 2-step - or some form of do-si-do - I never will know because the room was spinning faster than a top before I knew what hit me. 

All I can say in retrospect is that next time I venture into one of the taverns here, I'm donning a postop shoe and claiming I had foot surgery!  No way Jose am I making such a spectacle of myself again - whether I want to fit in or not!

Dancing-Fool-Meets-Do-Si-Doon Hubpages

Does Having Medical Procedures Have to Rob You of Your Dignity?

This is my little take-off and gripe about medical procedures but also a funny look at my own experiences being at the mercy of 'care providers'. 

While I wholeheartedly applaud the medical profession (which I am in fact a part of as a medical transcriptionist), I think that health care providers need to take a step back and look at themselves and ask how they would like to be treated in similar circumstances.  For the most part, when we have procedures done, we are totally at the mercy of these trained professionals, however, in my humble opinion, many of them have forgotten one really, really important word - DIGNITY. 

As an 'old lady' of 56 years, I really don't like having my body put on display - unless it happens to be superimposed with a Victoria's Secret model's body - give me a break!  I especially don't like being put into situations either where my sagging boobs are being displayed for the whole world to gawk at!  (Not that they would be gawking mind you) 

My whole point is - as in any other line of work - do your job - but then think beyond the job and think about the PERSON involved.  Show them some modicum of dignity and hopefully it will lend itself to a more relaxed and assured patient!  I know in my case, I probably could have reduced by blood pressure by about 20 points had someone thought to show me just the rudimentary elements of human decency while I lay there buck naked on the table! 

Forget dignity in dying - I would prefer to have dignity in living!

The-Indignity-of-Some-Medical-Procedures on Hubpages

Cabbage Rolls Made Easy - Sinfully Quick and Easy

One night when I was really pressed for time and needed to use up 2 ingredients - a head of cabbage and a 1 pound package of extra-lean ground beef - I was saved by my 30+ year old Betty Crocker International Cookbook.  Lo and behold, there was a recipe for a cabbage and beef loaf - I was very skeptical on reading it because it just didn't sound like it would be that good.

Wow - was I ever wrong!  It was so easy to prepare - you could even shred the cabbage or chop it with a food processor rather than shredding by hand - but even with that part of the recipe, I had this thing thrown together in minutes and in the oven! 

The flavors were fantastic.  I actually could not believe that the recipe turned out so well and happened to think it would probably go well with some mashed red potatoes in their skins so had thrown that on as well.  I got fantastic raving reviews on my 'cabbage roll' dinner and it truly was a sinfully easy feat to accomplish.  I almost - ALMOST - felt guilty accepting the kudos!  If you want to go the traditional route, see my original and traditional cabbage roll recipe on hubpages.com as well (although this one has the variation of a white sauce which is fantastic - and also the traditional sauce for those sticklers).

Don't forget - cabbage is very, very good for you - and cabbage rolls no matter how you make them are a great way to get your cabbage!

Cabbage-Rolls-The-Easy-Way on Hubpages

Cabbage Rolls Traditional Recipe and Then Some

For anyone who has German heritage, cabbage rolls are a family favorite.  However, they actually originated in Finland or so history goes and this is a Finnish recipe I found recently in my 30+ year old Betty Crocker International Cookbook. 

However, this recipe sports a variation - instead of the traditional red sauce (which is listed at the end of the recipe as a variation), this one is done in a creamy white sauce and is just fabulous!  If you want a delicious dinner for a cold winter night, this is an excellent version of the traditional cabbage roll recipe.  There is also a video in the hub about making cabbage rolls in the crockpot - equally delicious.

Still further, see my quick and easy variation on cabbage rolls on hubpages.  It is so easy to prepare it is crazy and it was so delicious!

Cabbage-Rolls-The-Old-Fashioned-way on Hubpages

Vanilla or White Chocolate Breading Pudding Recipe for 2

Again with Valentine's Day right around the corner, this is an excellent idea for a great classic - bread pudding.  Since I can't eat chocolate, I tweaked the recipe that my husband loved, Chocolate-Bread-Pudding-For-Two and came up with something I could enjoy as well!

Try some of the variations such as vanilla and dried apricot bread pudding - or experiment with various liqueurs such as Grand Marnier or amaretto - use almond extract instead of vanilla or use dried orange peel along with the Grand Marnier for delicious variations.  Still yet, try dried blueberries and vanilla - just soak the dried blueberries and drain before using.  There are so many possibilities I think I will be making this dessert for quite some time!

This recipe is a bit different in that it toasts the bread cubes before assembling the pudding - it really did seem to make it a better pudding for the toasting.  Also experiment with the bread - sweet breads are good but equally good are French bread cubes and even bagel cubes! 

Whatever way you try bread pudding though, it is always a hit - and there are many variations as well with caramel sauces and whiskey sauces, etc.  You can experiment and experiment and never tire of the dessert!

White-Chocolate-or-Vanilla-Bread-Pudding-for-Two on Hubpages

Bread-Pudding-With-Whiskey-Sauce-Lightened-Recipe

Breakfast Bread Pudding-

Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe for 2

Most everyone I know loves bread pudding - and most everyone I know loves chocolate! So here is a lightened up recipe of a classic dessert - and just in time for Valentine's Day. 

If you need something that is relatively easy to make and also won't blow your diet out of the water, this is the recipe.  The fact that you can make it for 2 without tweaking the recipe and cutting things in half or thirds makes it even nicer.  I love the toasted bread cubes as it really does make a difference in the density or lack of in the bread pudding - also cooking it in a water bath really keeps it moist.

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping and sprinkle a little grated chocolate on top - or use Grand Marnier as the liqueur and then sprinkle a wee bit of dried orange peel on top - delicious!

A great ending to a wonderful meal and you can do much of it ahead.

Chocolate-Bread-Pudding-For-Two on Hubpages

Whole Wheat French Bread Recipe

I decided that I wanted to tweak my French Bread recipe a little more and try and make it healthier, so I experimented and I think I came up with the winning recipe!

You can do this French bread in a mixer or a food processor with a dough hook (I kneaded mine for about 7-8 minutes and it turned out perfectly).  I also used 1 teaspoon of salt rather than the 1-1/2 that it called for in my original French bread recipe (I also cut that back to 1 teaspoon and found it rose better as well).

Instead of rolling out the dough as well, I just shaped this loaf and it worked beautifully.  Misting it with water rather than brushing on also helps it to keep its shape.

I'm going to experiment with other flours as well such as semolina or oat and see if I can perfect yet another loaf but this bread, whether it flattens out as a sort of ciabatta, or stays up nice and firm for a French loaf is delicious no matter how you slice it so to speak!  It makes fantastic toast!

Wheat French Bread Recipe on Hubpages
French-Bread-Made-Easy on Hubpages

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Iditarod 2010 - Coming Soon To a TV or Website Near You!

I can't wait for March 6th, 2010 as that will mean the start of one of my favorite sports - the Iditarod.  Though the great sled dog race has many lovers and haters on both sides, I think that in the modern world, the race is a testament to dog sports.  The mushers that I profiled in my hub below were selected because of their dedication not only to the fine sport of dog sledding/racing but because of their overall personalities and their love of their dogs.  I in no way mean to exclude or infer that other mushers do not have the same passions or compassion for their dog teams, but these are just 6 of my favorite of all time.  My choices were also based on an element that I always look for in people I have known or perceive to know from afar - sense of humor.  Also wrapped up in all of these people is a superb level of dedication - to their sport but also to life and all the parts of it that we hold dear.  All of these people seem to have an unsurpassed ability for survival as well or an ability to rise above and perform positively in the face of adversity.  For all those qualities and more, these 6 mushers are in my so-called 'hall of fame' and I wish them all well in whatever endeavor they are pursuing at the moment.  These 6 people have made the world a better place to be - not just in terms of mushing but in terms of the greatest race we are all in - that of life!

Iditarod 2010 - Mushers Past and Present

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe

This is probably going to sound 'weird' but combining cheesecake with the words high fiber probably is! Not to worry though  - no one will know! Or they don't have to unless you tell them!!!

I recently was told to go on a high fiber diet and had been searching about for recipes and came across this recipe from a book I had out on library loan.  Unfortunately, I neglected to write down where I found this gem but it is so good.  It combines 2 of my favorite things - sweet potatoes and dried apricots.  I should throw in 3 things because I absolutely love cheesecake.

This little dessert weighs in with 2 grams of fiber as it capitalizes on Fiber One cereal as the crust - but in all truth, you could substitute any other high fiber cereal for the crust or homemade granola - or combine with cereal and nuts for the crust as I often do. 

I think it is marvelous to use these 2 entities together and can still 'delude' myself that I'm eating something healthy which in fact I am! Hope you enjoy it as well.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Sweet-Potato-Cheesecake

Cream Cheese Pie Crust and Tart Recipe

What else to do when the weather turns to snow and sleet and you have a bit of time to spare?  Decided to hit the cookbooks I had on hand (mine and what I have saved in my notebooks) and found this delightful recipe that I think may replace my tried and true pie crust recipe - or at least be an alternative. 

Anything with cream cheese catches my eye when it comes to pastry simply because it seems to hold together very well and be easy to handle - as well as delicious!  This recipe although a bit lengthy really seems to be practical and pretty easy to make though I know a lot of folks like the fail safe method of going to the supermarket, picking up a ready-made crust and calling it a day.  I prefer the challenge of seeing if I can get the pie crust to work and secondly to taste wonderful.  I can't say that I hate seeing the look of pure rapture on people's faces when they taste it and it is delicious! 

At any rate, I think this pie crust will do the job very well for tarts and pies and it is on my list for 'to makes' for Super Bowl Sunday - not sure if I'll use it for a savory pie along the lines of chicken pot pie or if I'll go 'all the way' and make a pecan pie or tart or a fruit pie.  Whatever it is, I think this pie crust will stand up and be counted! 

I especially like that you can refrigerate it for several days and/or freeze for several months.  Enjoy.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Cream-Cheese-Flaky-Pie-Crust

http://hubpages.com/hub/ABSOLUTELY-FOOLPROOF-PIE-CRUST-RECIPE

Monday, January 25, 2010

Super Easy Chicken Florentine Homemade Pizza

Last night, I was desperately behind in terms of all the chores I had to do because my helpmate and husband, Bob had had his wisdom teeth pulled a few days before and he had not been up to his usual level of shouldering the workload.  Between working, blogging, doing photography, keeping up with the house and the new puppy, I was surely a quart low and then some!

Since he was getting very tired of my soup de jour coming at him ad nauseum and puddings and ice creams constantly being thrown his way, he begged for something 'real' to eat.  Letting him have the last word on the matter so to speak with his poor mouth, I decided perhaps a thin crust pizza might be just what the doctor (or in this case the dentist) ordered.  Sure enough - it was a hit and it wasn't so thick as to hurt his mouth any more than it was already hurting.  I got rave reviews!

I had to improvise a bit to get it 'just right' but I was very pleased with what I concocted with some things I actually just had on hand so did not have to make a dash for the market which was another bonus.  I am thinking in retrospect of a million different tweaks or variations that I can do on this recipe and listed a few at the end.  It was so simple and I looked like a hero for coming up with something 'regular' for him to eat! Three cheers for pizza! 

http://hubpages.com/hub/Chicken-Spinach-Feta-Mushroom-Pizza

Painting Can Be Dangerous When You Are Not Athletic!

We are back to the problem yet again - my lack of athleticism.  Who knew that painting a stupid house could get me into so much trouble?  Who knew that painting a house would or could require me to know how to be an acrobat?  Whew - I'm very glad I've given it up in my 'older age'

I think they should really post warnings on ladders - oh wait - I think that they do.  Maybe they should have a couple more warnings that say for instance 'do not use if you are stupid' or 'do not use if you have no common sense'.  Of course, knowing myself, I would laugh and have a good chuckle over THAT one - as IF they were talking to ME!  You have to be kidding!  I'm the most intelligent person I know - except when it comes to doing something as terrifically simple as painting a house.

I have decided that the problem lies in my personality.  I am too quick to do everything, giving it little or no thought as to the consequences.  I would say I am impulsive but that would be insulting.  I am just a doer rather than a thinker - yeah, I'm sticking with that.  God forbid that I would actually think something through before I attempted it.  I always say though that I am a hands-on person rather than a read-the-manual type but as you can see by this illustration of only ONE of my many screw-ups, I probably should reconsider this approach to life and get a clue.  Too late in the ladder department as after a few mishaps like this one, I decided that ladders should stay far, far away from me - and vice versa.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Should-Painting-Be-An-Olympic-Sport

Maybe I Could Have Made the Special Olympics

Okay, so maybe I wasn't the most agile of athletes nor the most proficient at any sport, but I have to say, what I lacked in coordination and skill, I more than made up for it in drive and perserverance.  Too bad I failed miserably as a child to come up with anything that even resembled athleticism!  I surely wanted to.

As a child brought up by a music teacher who lived and breathed music, literature, music, theater, music (did I mention music?), it was not very easy to excel at sports.  I was not even allowed to play sports as I might 'damage' something like my hands, which were only supposed to be used for playing piano, accordion, or the clarinet.  I have to insert here that I was NOT a willing musician by any means.  I had this longing to do sports and as you can see from my post, it did not go well.  Maybe in retrospect, I should have stuck to my musical endeavors after all (although I was most famous for getting my dress caught in my accordion rather than for my musical abilities).

The moral of my story is never quit - never say you cannot do anything! And even if you can't do it well, do it for comedy!  At least I could excel at that one thing.  If they had had Comedic Olympics or at the least Special Olympics back in the 1960s, who knows - I could have been very famous.

http://hubpages.com/hub/I-Could-Have-Been-a-Gymnist-In-The-Olympics

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Monday, January 11, 2010

Wednesday, January 6, 2010