The Simple Woman's Day book . . .

FOR TODAY, January 31st, 2012...

Outside My Window...
All is calm, and dark, and very cold. No snow as of yet, but I heard that they got some down South yesterday. Our Camelia bush by the front door is filled with buds that have already turned pink. We've had quite a mild winter so far this year.

I am thinking...
I didn't do so well at the Dr's yesterday. I went for my knees again, hoping to be able to get another cortizone shot in each, but came away confused and more than a little miffed. The Doctors in our local surgery changed frequently for some reason. In any case yesterday the Dr I saw told me that I was only entitled to have two shots in each joint for my whole lifetime, and yet the time before I had been told I was entitled to 3 per year per joint. What is the truth? Also the previous Dr had given me a prescription to have filled for the shots and I ended up with a whole bag full to bring back to the surgery myself when I went for my shot. There had to be at least 20 vials in the bag if not more. He used one and kept the rest. This Dr yesterday gave me a prescription for ONE vial and the chemist themselves will be sending it to the surgery before Friday. Sounds a bit strange to me.

I am thankful for...
We were told yesterday that they won't have to turn off our gas again. THANK GOODNESS!!! It was pretty cold in here yesterday. The works are ongoing on the street and it will probably be about 8 weeks until we can park in the drive again, but at least our house is done! ☺

From the kitchen...
Not a heck of a lot. Sometimes that is a good thing.

I am wearing...
Pink and yellow jim jams and my robe and slippers.

I am creating...
I have nothing on the table at the moment, which is unsual for me. I am busy getting my lesson organized for Sunday. There were some very good suggestions given by you all last week and I am inspired. I think I've got a handle on it now!! Thanks!

I am going...
I have the daily reading lessons and then I have my Presidency Meeting on Wednesday Evening and then on Friday an appointment for one shot in one knee. ( I have only had one shot in my left knee so far so am allowed to have one more. *grumble *grumble)

I am reading...



Once Upon A Time There Was You, by Elizabeth Berg

Even on their wedding day, John and Irene sensed that they were about to make a mistake. Years later, divorced, dating other people, and living in different parts of the country, they seem to have nothing in common—nothing except the most important person in each of their lives: Sadie, their spirited eighteen-year-old daughter. Feeling smothered by Irene and distanced from John, Sadie is growing more and more attached to her new boyfriend, Ron. When tragedy strikes, Irene and John come together to support the daughter they love so dearly. What takes longer is to remember how they really feel about each other. Elizabeth Berg’s immense talent shines in this unforgettable novel about the power of love, the unshakeable bonds of family, and the beauty of second chances.

As you know I am a real fan of Elizabeth Berg. I just love all of her books and this one is no exception. I am loving this one too!! I only have about 2 more chapters left to read and guess what I have lined up next?? Yep, another one by Elizabeth Berg.

I am hoping...
That this shot works well on Friday and that my left knee improves at least. I am very disappointed by this all. (Can you tell??) It's not that I loooove having shots, but the last ones improved my situation so very much. I had about 6 great months in which I had a lot more mobility and now I am back to square one again . . .

I am hearing...
Nothing much. Mitzie is snoring away on the sofa. The keys are tapping. All is quiet outside . . . the birds are waking up so a bit of chirping and the odd car that drives by. A very normal, ordinary, everyday start to the day.

Around the house...

Source: petitemichellelouise.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

Don't you just love this????? It's like shabby chic, French country. I love the colours and I adore the lettering. I think it is just beautiful.

I am looking forward to ...
Giving my lesson on Sunday. I sure hope that the ladies get a lot out of it.

If I could change one thing it would be ...
I am going to be selfish today and say that I would make my knees all better again. I hate being selfish, but there you have it.

One of my favourite things...
Is being able to share my feelings and thoughts with you. Daft as it sounds, you are all so very real to me and I value your opinions and thoughts too. We may never have met in person for the most part, but you all feel like very close and valued friends to me.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
A bit of work . . . a bit of play . . . and everything in between!! Not a heck of a lot really.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Source: weheartit.com via Marie on Pinterest

You meet a friend, your face brightens . . . you have struck gold.
~Kassia

a bit of a cheeky picture I know, but these gals just look like the best of friends. There is an easy camaraderie there. They just "get" each other. I have the feeling that they end each others sentences and know everything there is to know about the other . . . that they share everything . . . all their thoughts, their hopes, their dreams, their sorrows, their joy. Such a friend is a treasure beyond measure. Truly.

As a closing thought I would like to leave you with this:

“You cannot kindle a fire in any other heart unless you have one burning in your own."
~Harold B. Lee

I just love this . . . it is so true. Enthusiasm is contageous.

And there you have it . . . my day book for this week. Don't forget to hop on over to the Simple Woman to check out the other day book entries! (Or better yet, do a simple day book entry yourself! It's not that hard and I am betting you would enjoy it!

Here is an oldie but a goodie from an old Pillsbury booklet that I purchased back in 1991. There's a lot of water under the bridge since then, I can tell you! This booklet is worn and tattered and torn, but remains one of my favourites. I have stolen the picture from the booklet too, because in all truth . . . Todd hates chocolate and there is no way I want to ever eat 20 servings of this all by myself. It makes a great dessert to bring to a potluck meal though, or for when you are having a large gathering at home.



*Chocolate Bread Pudding with a Raspberry Cherry Sauce*
Serves 20
Printable Recipe

Rich chocolate soufflee like bread pudding. Delicious!

For the pudding:
1 cup of semi sweet chocolate chips
1 cup whipping cream
2/3 cup firmly packed soft light brown sugar
5 eggs, separated
1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces
1 tsp vanilla
4 cups soft bread cubes

For the Sauce:
2 TBS sugar
4 tsp cornstarch
1 (16-oz) tin of pitted dark sweet cherries, drained and syrup reserved
1 (10-oz) packet of frozen raspberries in syrup, thawed, drained, and syrup reserved

Preheat the oven to 180*C/350*F/gas mark 4. Butter a 12 by 8 inch baking dish.

Combine the chocolate chips and cream in a large saucepan. Heat over low heat until the chips are melted, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1/3 cup of the brown sugar. Add the egg yolks, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Continue to cook until slightly thickened. Add the butter and vanilla. Stir until smooth. remove from the heat and stir in the bread.

Beat the egg whites in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in the remaining brown sugar, beating at the highest speed until stiff peaks form. Fold this mixture into the chocolate mixture. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Set the baking dish into a pan of hot water which comes 1/2 way up the sides of the baking dish. (I put the pan in the oven and set the baking dish into it and then add the hot water, as it is difficult to move it once it is filled and the baking dish is in it.) Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the centre is set.

To make the sauce, combine the sugar and the cornstard. Gradually stir in the reserved liquids from the fruits. Cook over medium heat until the mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly. Cool slightly, then stir in the fruit. Serve over the warm bread pudding.

Store any leftover pudding and sauce in the refrigerator.


Cooking in The English Kitchen today, a delicious Oven Hash!

All about smell . . .

Source: flickr.com via Marie on Pinterest

"Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived." ~Helen Keller

There is something really special about smells. They have the power to grasp your mind and take you back to any memory in your experience. They can make you feel really safe, or afraid . . . sometimes comfortable and sometimes sad.

My old wooden spoon has absorbed the smell of many a year, and . . . no matter how many times it has been washed and scrubbed, time's compelling odour abounds. The smell of garlic, onion and tomato paste permeate it and whisper golden memories of evenings shared with loved ones now living miles and miles apart.

Source: roomseventeenstyle.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

The smell of molasses cookies baking always takes me back to my grandmother's ample lap and the feeling of warmth and love as I cuddled there . . . the creak of her rocking chair and the crinkling sound of her kitchen linoleum as someone walked across it.

One time when my oldest son was a baby, I opened a bottle of gripe water and was instantly transported back to a time that was long hidden in the recesses of my mind. It is very hard to describe the feeling . . . but I remembered the taste and I felt comforted and safe . . .

Occasionally when I am in a chemists, I will encounter an elusive smell that I can't pin down to anything in the shop . . . but that in my memory reminds me of being a teenage girl and getting ready for Saturday night out . . . washing my hair and then using Lady Patricia hair conditioner . . . the pink one . . . it's a smell that makes me feel excited and warm inside, and quite, quite nostalgic. I don't even know if they make Lady Patricia hair conditioner anymore.

Source: reverberaquerida.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

The smell of Ma Griffe perfume always takes me back to my mother's bosom and the memory of watching her as she got gussied up to go out for a night on the tiles with my dad. There was always a feeling of excitement in the air and my mother always looked so pretty and my father so handsome. If I close my eyes, I can almost hear the rustle of her crinoline as she brushes past me . . . She would sometimes get the sitter to take a picture of them together, and when I go to visit her now, in her later years, I love to sit and look at the pictures, and remember that same air of excitment.

The top dresser drawer of the high boy dresser in the spare bedroom at my mom's still smells like a combination of leather, tobacco, cork grease and butterscotch wafers, or in other words . . . my dad. He was a consummate clarinetist and used to keep a hidden stash of butterscotch wafers in that drawer along with his cork grease and wallet. He's not been there in that room for a very long time . . . but the smell lingers on and reminds me of secret forays into the forbidden stash of buttery sweetness.

Source: whiteandshabby.com via Marie on Pinterest

The smell of a turkey roasting carries with it the smells of 56 Thanksgivings and 56 Christmases and all the feelings to go along with them . . . some happy, some sad . . . and everything in between. The love of family and friends . . . loved ones still here and other's long gone . . .

Evening in Paris . . . burning leaves . . . a freshly sharpened pencil . . . a wood fire . . . musty moth balls . . . these smells and others all hold the keys to magical moments in time, known only to me. Little treasures and gems hidden in my mind just waiting for me to take them out and hold them in my hands again, if only for a moment . . .



This is Chris and Tess! Chris served here as a missionary not that long ago and has returned for a short visit. I took this picture when they stopped off here last evening. Chris had been going to stay with us for a few days, but the trial he was a witness at got mis-trialed or some such, in any case . . . they ended up not needing him and so he is flying back sooner, so we only got to spend a few hours with him last night. (Tess is a good friend of his since Grade School and a really nice girl. Just friends folks!) Anyways, it was soooo good to see him and to finally be able to give him a hug now that he is not an Elder anymore and to meet his friend. We enjoyed a nice chat and he sang one of his favourite songs for us by Gordon Lightfoot and it was just lovely. He was always the singing Elder and has a beautiful voice. It was such a nice visit with these great young people. Would have been nice to have him stay a few days, but that's life! I'm sure we'll see him again one day!

I have people coming for lunch today and so I must dash. I do so love having company. I'm doing meat pies and mash, with a salad and soup to start and then for dessert . . . well, you'll just have to wait and see! In the meantime here's a lovely Pavlova which I made earlier . . . a couple of years earlier actually!! Yes, it's one from the archives!

*Classic Pavlova*
Serves 6
Printable Recipe

The fruit used to top a pavlova is largely dependant on seasonal availability, although the classic pavlova is usually topped with mixed berries and some passion fruit pulp. Here I have used fresh raspberries and some raspberry coulis. Delicious! Please note that it is really important that the bowl you use to whip the egg whites up in is scrupulously clean from any grease. I always use a metal bowl as plastic absorbs grease.

4 egg whites
1 cup caster sugar (220g)
1 TBS cornflour
1 tsp white vinegar
300ml thick cream, whipped until soft peaks form (1 1/4 cup)
1 TBS of peach schnapps (Optional)
3 cups fresh raspberries
1 cup raspberry coulis

Pre-heat the oven to very slow, about 120*C/250*F. Cover a greased baking tray with a piece of parchment paper.

Place the egg whites into a small clean dry bowl. Using an electric mixer beat on high speed for about one minute, until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one TBS at a time, beating well after each addition until the sugar is dissolved. Fold in the cornflour and the vinegar.

Spoon the resulting meringue into a round shape on the prepared baking sheet, about 20cm in diameter. Level the top of the meringue with a rubber spatula.

Bake, uncovered, in the slow oven for about 1 ½ hours or until the meringue feels firm and dry to the touch. Turn the oven off and open the oven door. Leave the oven door ajar to cool the meringue slowly in the oven.

Remove the cooled meringue from the oven. Place it top side down onto a serving plate and carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Fold the peach schnapps into the softly whipped cream and spoon it onto the top of the bottom side of the meringue. Scatter the raspberries over the top and then drizzle with about half of the raspberry coulis.

Serve immediately, cut into slices with the rest of the raspberry coulis on the side so that people may add more if they wish.

Cooking in The English Kitchen today, The Ultimate Nachos!

“Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God's love encompasses us completely. ... He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken.”
― Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Friday Thoughts . . .

Wisdom tells me I am nothing.
Love tells me I am everything.
And between the two
my life flows.
~Nisargadatta Maharaj

I once read of a woman who, having survived the horrors and inhumanity of the holocaust, was said to have carried two objects during her experiences which both sustained her, and gave her hope. One was a piece of bread which she always kept hidden on her person, and the other was the broken piece of a comb. The bread was kept in case she met someone who needed it more than she . . . and the comb so that, no matter what, morning or night . . . she could comb her hair and affirm her person.

What a profound example of how the tenacity of the human spirit allows us to turn ordinary things into living symbols that can help to get us through anything. What this woman carried . . . and why she carried them . . . speaks volumes to the wisdom of love itself.



What small thing do we each carry that we can give to others who are more in need than ourselves? What constant gesture do we each carry that gives us affirmation? As I ponder these two questions it occurs to me that even to carry these questions can be life sustaining . . .for to carry even the smallest crust of bread . . . or truth . . . that we can offer others is a steady reminder to ourselves that we do not walk this path alone, and that no matter how bad we may think our own circumstances . . . there is always someone who has less, and who we can share our abundance with . . . that we have great worth and that even in our pain, we can be of value.

We all live somewhere between nothing and everything. We all have great value. Recognizing our value is giving a voice to our God and all that He has created and all that He would do in us. There is a great freedom in this knowledge, and an empowerment which enables us to fly in the face of danger and despair.

Just my thoughts this morning . . .



I am still not well, however I am better than yesterday I did manage to sleep for a while yesterday during the day and then last night for most of the night. I was exhausted. I had Todd give me a blessing before I went to bed. I am so grateful to have the priesthood in my home and for the benefit of priesthood blessings. They are a great comfort and a help.

I have not been cooking . . .we had a takeaway yesterday and that tasted like cardboard to me. Funny how that goes. Normally I would have really enjoyed such a treat! Anyways, here is a recipe from my archives. I am slowly getting them all onto a printable format. These really are delicious and I may bake some as soon as I get my taste back!



*Baked Apples with Mincemeat and Cream*
Serves 4
Printable Recipe

I love baked apples. They are so easy to do and always taste so good when they are done. For a little something extra special try baking them stuffed with mincemeat. These are truly delicious!

1 medium bottle of sparkling apple cider or apple juice (about 3 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup cranberry jelly
2 TBS unsalted butter
4 large baking apples (I used Blenheim Orange Suffolk)
3/4 cup purchases mincemeat
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup dried tart cherries
1 TBS chopped crystalized ginger
250 ml container of double cream for serving

Pre-heat the oven to 200*C/400*F. Lightly grease a baking dish and set aside.

Put the apple cider, cranberry jelly and butter into a large skillet and bring to a boil. Boil until it is reduced to about 1 1/4 cups. This should take about 12 to 15 minutes.

In the meantime, cut a cone shaped piece from the stem end of each apple, about 2 inches wide at the tip and 1 inch deep. Using a melon baller, remove the core, leaving the apple intact at the bottom. Take a sharp knife and cut a slight slit around the middle of each apple, about halfway up. Try not to cut in too deeply. This will help to prevent the apple from exploding in the oven and help it to keep it's shape.

Mix the mincemeat, walnuts, cherries and ginger together in a bowl. Spoon this mixture into the apples, filling and mounding it up in the centre.

Arrange the apples in the baking dish and then spoon the cider over and around them. Bake for about 45 minutes, until the apples are tender. Serve warm in shallow bowls with a spoonful of cream or two drizzled over each.



Over in the English Kitchen today, it's Friday Night Fish!

Monday morning ponderings . . .

“If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning... Face it, friend. He is crazy about you! ” ~ Max Lucado

If I had to sum up all of the so called important things that I have learned thus far in my lifetime, all of them together could not come up to the worth of the words in this one sentence . . .

God love YOU . . . as you are, right now . . . God loves you, and that will never change.



God loves you not because of who you are or what you have accomplished or done in your life . . . but because of who He is. He is your Heavenly Father and He loves you. You behaviour doesn't impact on the heart and character of God, any more than your own children's behaviour would have an impact on your heart and character. You might think that on your good days, God is proud of you; and that in your not so good moments, He may love you less, but this just isn't so. God's love for you is unchangeable, immoveable and ever steadfast. There is nothing you could do that would make Him love you less.

He doesn't just love the woman whose children all memorize their scriptures and sit quietly in church of a Sunday morning, whilst yours struggle to remember their names and can't sit still for even a moment. He doesn't just love the woman who has been happily married for years to the same man, whilst you have struggled to find even one who would suit. He doesn't just love the woman who does everything right, in the right way and at the right time . . . He loves You, with all your weaknesses and fumblings . . . as Angie would say . . . Warts-n-arl!



It is only when we are able to grasp this beautiful truth and drive it deep into our hearts, and live with it deep in the marrow of our bones that we are able to change our lives forever and become the women we were meant to be. This is the essence of a life changing truth.

We really enjoyed our Church Conference again yesterday. Of course, because of time differences, we were only able to watch the morning session, but we will catch up on the others as soon as they become available to watch on the internet. In the meantime, here are some more wonderful quotes from some of the talks that were some of my favourites:

President Eyring - What We Promise

"First we have promised to become charitable. Second, we promised to become witnesses of God. And third we promised to endure. The Book of Mormon is the best guide to learn how well we are doing and how to do better."

"The Lord is keeping His promises to you as you keep yours."

"Prayerful study of the Book of Mormon will build faith in God the Father, in His Beloved Son, and in His gospel. It will build faith in God's prophets, ancient and modern. It can draw you closer to God than any other book. It can change a life for the better."

Elder Hales - The Savior's Example, for Us, of Waiting Upon the Lord

"I have had the opportunity to study and learn more about our Savior's atoning sacrifice and how He prepared Himself to make that eternal offering for each of us. His preparation began in the pre-mortal life as he waited upon His Father, saying "Thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever. Beginning in that moment and continuing today, he exercises His agency to accept and carry out our Heavenly Father's plan."

"As we wait upon the Lord we are "immovable in keeping the commandments," knowing that we will "one day rest from [all] afflictions."

"Waiting upon the Lord gives us a priceless opportunity to discover that there are many who wait upon us. Our children wait upon us to show patience, love, and understanding toward them. Our parents wait upon us to show gratitude and compassion. Our brothers and sisters wait upon us to be tolerant, merciful, and forgiving. Our spouses wait upon us to love them as the Savior has loved each one of us."

Elder Ballard - The Importance of a Name

"The name the Savior has given to His Church tells us exactly wo we are and what we believe. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior and the Redeemer of all mankind. He atoned for all who would repent of their sins, and He broke the bands of death and provided resurrection from the dead. We follow Jesus Christ."

"While Mormon is not the full and correct name of the Church, and even though it was originally given by our detractors during our early years of persecution, it has become an acceptable nickname when applied to members rather than the institution. We do not need to stop using the name Mormon, when appropriate, but we should continue to give emphasis to the full and correct name of the Church itself. In other words, we should avoid and discourage the term "Mormon Church".

President Monson - Prayer

"Also evolving at a rapid rate has been the moral compass of society. Behaviors which once were considered inappropriate and immoral are now not only tolerated but also viewed by ever so many as acceptable."

"Although the world has changed, the laws of God remain constant. They have not changed; they will not change. The ten commandments are just that -- commandments. They are not suggestions. They are every bit as requisite today as they were when God gave them to the children of Israel."

"My brothers and sisters, I declare to you, however, that there is nothing which can bring more joy into our lives or more peace to our souls than the spirit which can come to us as we follow the Savior and keep the commandments."

"As a means of being in the world but not of the world, it is necessary that we communicate with our Heavenly Father through prayer. He wants us to do so; He'll answer our prayers."

"Not a day has gone by that I have not communicated with my Father in Heaven through prayer. It is a relationship that I cherish . . . one I would literally be lost without."

"My beloved brothers and sisters, communication with our Father in Heaven . . . including our prayers to Him and His inspiration to us . . . is necessary in order for us to weather the storms and trials of life."

"As the winds of change swirl around us and the moral fiber of society continues to disintegrate before our very eyes, may we remember the Lord's precious promises to those who trust in Him: "Fear thou not; I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yeah, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

There is always so much wisdom packed into those two hours of talks and inspiration. I love every minute of it and always come away from it inspired and resolved to be a better me.

Here's a yummy autumn dessert that will make a beautiful use of all the plums that we have sitting ripe on the grocery shelves at the moment. Oh how I love plums . . . I know I say this about all the fruits, but they are one of my absolute favourites!



*Plum Streusal*
Serves 4
Printable Recipe

I love this warm pudding. Over here in the UK dessert is calling pudding. This is comfy and delicious. The perfect way to use up that glut of egg shaped delights!

1 large egg
1/2 cup light muscovado sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup milk
1 cup flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
40 small purple plums, sliced in half and pitted
StreusalTopping:
1/2 cup light muscovado sugar
2 TBS plain flour
3 TBS butter, melted
1 TBS chinese five spice powder
1 tsp ground cloves
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and broken into pieces



Pre-heat the oven to 180*C/350*F. Lightly butter a 9 inch square glass dish and set it aside.

Cream together the butter and the muscovado sugar. Beat in the egg. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Stir into the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, mixing until smooth. It will be a loose batter.

Mix together the topping ingredients , the sugar, flour, five spice powder and cloves. Add the walnuts and melted butter, mixing until crumbly.

Place half the plums in the buttered baking dish. Pour half the batter over. Top with half the streusal topping. Repeat once more, ending up with streusal on top.

Bake in the heated oven for 1 hour, or until golden brown. Serve warm with custard or vanilla ice cream.



Over in The English Kitchen today, some delicious Black Pepper Biscuits!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, June 20th, 2011...

Outside My Window...
It is beautiful and sunny. I think we are in for a warm and beautiful day today! Bring on summer!

I am thinking...
I was able to call my dad yesterday to wish him a Happy Father's Day, and I also called my mom and spoke to her for about an hour as well. I am thankful for a phone plan which enables me to do this for only £4.99 a month, unlimited calls too. Just so long as I keep them under an hour. I set the kitchen timer and I always manage to time keep very well.

I am thankful for...
I am very grateful for parents that are still with us. It is a blessing and a treasure. I wish that I lived closer so that I could do more for them, but it's just not been possible. I had always thought to be able to care for them in their dotage, but alas . . . it's just not so. I do the best that I can from afar, and in reality I wouldn't be able to do much with these knees of mine anyways!

From the kitchen...
There are leftover Cheese Filled Cornmeal Scones in the fridge, but not a lot else! I've been trying to stay away from overly fattening things, although Todd is not immune to a treat or two and does welcome them. It is hard to be watching your weight when you are married to the stick man who can eat whatever he wants, whenever he wants and however much he wants!

I am wearing...
A turquoise nightie and pink pajama pants. I know! What a wierd combination! Tis comfortable though and so it stays. ☺

I am creating...
I have been putting together a few Christmas Cards for orders and sketching. I need to finish my Christmas Designs for the stamp company. Only a few for Christmas as there won't be a full range of them. My other stamps were on the television again last week, and this time I managed to catch a glimpse of them. It's kind of surreal when this happens. I almost can't believe it when I see them.

I am going...
I have the reading lessons every day this week, and my pupil is doing very well. I have meetings on Wednesday night, and then on Thursday I am having another injection in my knee. This time at the local surgery. I have further injections planned for my other knee and my hip. I am a bit afraid because of the venue, but beggars can't be choosers. I'll do my best to cope! I am having another Pampered Chef Party on Thursday evening this week. I had planned this about two months ago, so I didn't like to cancel. It shouldn't be a problem as I won't have to get up too much I hope! If you are in the Chester Area and would like to attend I would love to have you! I think I'll be skipping my exercise class on Friday morning due to the injection as I will have to take it easy for a couple of days. I'll still go to the counseling part though. I also have a talk to finish up that I am giving in church on Sunday. I have it all bareboned in. I just have to flesh it out now.

I am reading...




The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted, by Elizabeth Berg

Every now and then, right in the middle of an ordinary day, a woman kicks up her heels and commits a small act of liberation. What would you do if you could shed the “shoulds” and do, say—and eat—whatever you really desired? Go AWOL from Weight Watchers and spend an entire day eating every single thing you want? Start a dating service for people over fifty to reclaim the razzle-dazzle in your life—or your marriage? Seek comfort in the face of aging, look for love in the midst of loss, find friendship in the most surprising of places? In these beautiful, funny stories, Elizabeth Berg takes us into the heart of the lives of women who do all these things and more—confronting their true feelings, desires, and joys along the way.

As you know, I love Elizabeth Berg's books and am enjoying this newest one. It is nice to read some short stories for a change.

I am hoping...
I have been invited to an all expenses paid trip down to Ipswich on July 4th to attend a special event at Jimmy Doherty's Farm. He is one of Jamie Oliver's friends and he makes really good sausages. There will be a tour of the farm, a butchering class, a free lunch and signed cookery book, a question and answer session and who knows what else. I am going! Yipee!!! My friend Julie is going to come up from Gloucester to go with me. What a jewel she is! It will be double the pleasure now, as not only will I get to participate in this fantastic event, but I'll also get to do it with a good friend! Plus she is coming here the night before and we will have two nights together to chat and laugh and just enjoy each other's company!

I am hearing...
Early morning sounds . . . the clock on the mantle humming as the wheels inside it turn. Mitzie snuffling here curled up behind me on the sofa. The tap tapping of the computer keys as I write. Birds singing in the garden. All is right with the world. The bin men for the recyclables are also going around. That's Monday morning!

Around the house...
Ironing, ironing, ironing. I have never had a clothes drier over here and so most things need to be ironed. The washing machines are very powerful and so all the clothes come out of it very wrinkled and near to dry, because of all the spinning. Seriously doing a load of wash takes almost two hours in the machine, but the clothes do come out very clean and like I said, almost dry, but very wrinkly!

One of my favourite things...
I am a woman with quite a few weaknesses I'm afraid. Crafts, cooking, reading. I'm not sure I could pick a favourite thing because everything I do is my favourite thing when I am doing it! Does that make sense??? It's just me!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...



This is a character from the Midsummer's Watch Parade in Chester that Todd and I went to on Saturday. I had never been to one before. It was bright and colourful and very entertaining! I did take video of the whole thing with my camera and so will add the video's below. There are three of them.

Chester's Midsummer Watch is one of Britain's oldest festivals, a tradition which reflects 500 years of the city's history. In Medieval and Tudor times, Chester's magnificent Midsummer Watch Parade was renowned throughout the country. First held during the mayoralty of Richard Goodman in 1498, it was organised by the City Guilds and took place in the years when the famous Chester Mystery Plays were not performed. The outstanding features of the show were the Giants, enormous structures made of buckram and pasteboard and carried by two or more men. Giants were a common feature of Tudor pageantry in England and Europe, but Chester was unique in that the city paraded a whole family of Giants, the Father, the Mother and two Daughters. There were also fantastic giant Beasts including the Unicorn, the Elephant, the Camel and the Dragon. Originally the Dragon was beaten by six naked boys, but this practice was banned in the late 16th century.

The Giants were accompanied by hobby horses, musicians, guildsmen, fools, children in costume, angels, goblins and green men. There were enormous moving floats called the "Mounts"; the most famous, the Merchants Mount, was in the form of a ship, a reminder that in those days, Chester was an important port. The whole procession was headed by a small boy, chosen each year, and the "Ancient" city drum.
The Midsummer Watch Parade survived much longer than the now world-famous Mystery Plays, which were banned in 1575 and not revived until recent times. In 1599, Mayor Henry Hardware prohibited the Parade and ordered the Giants to be broken up. However, so popular was the show that it was revived the next year and continued until the 1670s.

The tradition continues today.







Things like this are why I love Chester. There is always something fabulous going on!


And just as a closing thought for today . . .

Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again.
~OG Mandino

Not a problem for me! I try to treat others always in the same way as I would like to be treated. I think the Lord said it in another way . . . "Do unto other's as you would have them do unto you." He also said, "Love One Another."

And there you have it . . . my day book for this week. Don't forget to hop on over to the Simple Woman to check out the other day book entries! (Or better yet, do a simple day book entry yourself! It's not that hard and I am betting you would enjoy it!

Here's a tasty summertime dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds. It uses oreo cookies, but in truth just about any sandwich cookie could be used. Use your imaginations and go with the flow. I think Custard Creams or Gingernut Creams would be fantastic!



*Oreo Cheesecake*
Serves 16
Printable Recipe

This needn't be totally decadent and fattening if you use low fat ingredients such as low fat cream cheese and the cookies which are lower in fat. A delicious and light alternative to a heavy baked cheesecake. Perfect for summer!

1 pkg. (16.6 oz.) oreo cookies, divided
1/4 cup butter, melted
4 pkg. (8 oz. (250g) each)cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tub (8 oz.) frozen whipped topping, thawed
(Can use the equivalent amount of whipped cream)


Chop 15 of the cookies coarsely. Set aside. Finely crush the remaining cookies. Put into a bowl and then mix together with the med butter. Press into the bottom of a 13 by 9 inch pan. Place into the refrigerator to chill whilst preparing the filling.

To make the filling, beat together the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in a bowl. Beat together until well blended. Fold in the whipped topping and chopped cookies. Spread this mixture over top of the chilled crust.

Refrigerate until firm, some 4 to 5 hours. Delicious!



Over in The English Kitchen today, tasty little Jam Marguerites!

The Simple Woman's Day book

FOR TODAY, May 24th, 2011...

Outside My Window...
The sun is shining today. We have had a bit of rain, but not a lot and not enough to drench the ground. The days are getting longer. We are now going to bed in light and waking up in light. Mind you, we are early to bedders, and are in bed between 9 and 9:30 every night!

I am thinking...
I got to speak to my eldest grandson on the telephone yesterday afternoon. It was a delight. Todd and I both enjoyed it very much. He had his pre-school graduation the other day and was full of the excitement of that. We spoke about them coming over here next summer. My daughter-in-law's sister will be on Canada's Rowing Team for the Olympics and so they are planning on coming over here and spending some time with us. Todd and I will get to play Grandparents with the kiddies while my son and his wife go down to London for the games. It will be so nice for us. I have never ever gotten to spend any great length of time with my grandchildren so it will be a real treat for sure and the thought of it makes my heart sing.

I am thankful for...
There is always much to be thankful for. Even the worst of times contain small blessings and I think that most of us, in looking back, will find that the worst of times were actually the best of times, if that makes any sense. All things have a purpose and a meaning.

From the kitchen...
Not a lot! But I do have a fridge filled with little tubs of low fat Greek Yogurt! I'm trying to be good.

I am wearing...
A blue Nightie and my slippers. I usually don't get dressed until around 9 o'clock in the morning, a bit earlier if we have something to go to. I am always back in my jammies by early evening as well, unless people are coming over. I would live in them if I could, but alas . . . I can't!

I am creating...
I am getting a special project ready for our Relief Society extra meeting next week. I sure hope that the ladies enjoy what I have planned for them!

I am going...
Not a lot on this week. It's pretty boring really. We have an appointment with the Vet for Miztie tomorrow. She is on a diet and we have to take her in to be weighed. Other than that there are no other pressing matters. We have Stake Conference this weekend at church. The RS is providing food for the Priesthood in between their session on Saturday afternoon and the Family session on Saturday night, so I have a lot to do to get ready for that. We're just doing finger food.

I am reading...




The Work and the Glory, Pillar of Light, by Gerald N Lund

Still reading and enjoying:
PILLAR OF LIGHT begins the saga of the Benjamin Steed family, who, in the fall of 1826, move from Vermont to Palmyra Township in upstate New York in search of better farmland. Almost immediately they meet a young man named Joseph Smith and are thrown into the maelstrom of controversy that swirls around him. Is he deluded farm boy or prophet of God? Does he commune with angels or consort with devils? The answers to those questions - intensely personal, bitterly divisive - will profoundly affect the lives of the Steeds and many others. From the frontiers of early America to the complexities of the last half of the twentieth century, THE WORK AND THE GLORY series chronicles the triumphs and tragedies of one family caught up in the events of the Restoration

There are nine books in the series and this is the third time I am reading them. I always really enjoy them. Gerald N Lund is a brilliant writer. If you are interested in history, and in particular the history of the LDS church, you would really enjoy these books. They are wonderfully written. I highly recommend!

But . . . I am ALSO reading:



A Course In Weight Loss, by Mirianne Williamson

It's early days yet, but I saw the book on Oprah's Favourite Things show. What can I say . . . I like Oprah and she has good taste in books.

Nobody can say it better than the author herself.



I am hoping...
That I can get all that I need to get done for Saturday without too much stressing and also that I can have everything ready for the Extra Meeting next week and that it goes well.

I am hearing...
Early morning sounds . . . the house cracking and snapping as it comes alive. The birds are chirping loudly in the back garden. The tip tapping of the computer keys, Mitzie gently snuffling here next to me on the sofa. Early morning traffic. I love the early morning. It is my favourite time of the day. It is when I am at my sharpest and do my best work and thinking. I am truly a morning person!!

Around the house...
Not a lot. There is a pile of ironing to do, of course, but there always is!!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
A bit of work, a bit of play and everything in between! No meetings this week. Todd's got some blood tests this morning and I am going to have a cooked breakfast ready for him when he gets back. I am sure he will be starving! We may take a drive out somewhere one day if the weather is nice. I love days out like that, especially with Todd!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...



Elderflowers are in bloom just at the moment. This is the time to gather them in and make your cordials, jams and jellies. Elderflower fritters are also supposed to be good. You can infuse cream with them by warming some cream along with several blooms. Allow the cream to cool, then strain out the blooms. Chill and then whip the cream until light and fluffy. Fold in some cooked gooseberries or fresh berries for a real taste treat. We are quite fond of Elderflower Cordial ourselves. I just buy it bottled. There are some really good ones out there. It's lovely and refreshing chilled and and poured over ice on a warm summer's day!

And just as a closing thought for today . . .

Inside myself is a place where I live all alone, and that's where I renew my springs that never dry up. ~Pearl Buck

It is a good thing to be able to enjoy one's own company I think.

And there you have it . . . my day book for this week. Don't forget to hop on over to the Simple Woman to check out the other day book entries! (Or better yet, do a simple day book entry yourself! It's not that hard and I am betting you would enjoy it!

I'm getting a bit nostalgic in the kitchen this morning with this lovely salad/dessert which goes way back to the 1970's. I can remember eating this at baby and wedding showers, and even weddings! It was very popular at the time and is really quite delish!



*Watergate Salad*
Serves 8
Printable Recipe

I think most people have eaten this at one time or another. It's great for pot luck suppers and the holiday table. We always had it for dessert, not as a salad.

1 (1 pound 4 ounce) can of crushed pineapple,
in 100% pineapple juice, drained - reserve the juice
2 small packages of instant pistachio pudding mix
1 large (16 ounce) tub of Cool Whip, thawed
2 cups of miniature marshmallows
1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts, optional

Drain the pineapple, reserving the juice. Stir together half of the pineapple juice with the pudding mix until well blended. Gently fold in the Cool Whip, and then carefully stir in the pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans. Add additional juice only if needed. You want this to be moist, but not runny. Cover and refrigerate at least one hour or preferably overnight.



There is even more nostalgia for you today over in The English Kitchen. Delicious Spam Fritters!

Garden happenings . . .

There is so much happening in the garden these days that one cannot keep pace with what's going on! The crocuses and daffodils are swarming over the banks and borders with abandon.



Beneath the window of our dining room the Quince is peppered with rosy buds, just waiting to burst out and entice us with their beauty.



The damson blossom at the end of the garden is bursting to the point of breaking you would think . . . so beautiful.



The Dutch honeysuckle against the wall is flecked with beautiful new green leaves. I can remember when I first saw a honeysuckle I had no idea of what it was . . . it looked like some kind of alien plant life.



Blue Grape Hyacinths are pushing up out of the ground in the old terra cotta bowl. Their little cone shaped blue heads look so sweet, like a choir of little bells waiting to be rung . . . and primula wanda makes a velvety violet mat of bloom along the edges of the borders that flank our drive at the front of the house.



Next to the front door our Camelia Bush is covered in beautiful buds and blossoms, just waiting to burst open in a beautiful swath of pink blooms. I remember how very welcoming it was last year when we arrived here to stay from down South . . . it is hard to believe that a year has almost passed, and so quickly too.



The forsythia in the shrubbery are like golden fountains . . . arching gracefully over clumps of Jonquils and early primrose . . . so beautiful to see. Such a riot of colour.



The birds are singing just that wee bit brighter, and there is evidence of their nest building. I wonder will any take up residence in the nesting box we put up last year?? Oh, I do hope so!!! It would be nice to see a little winged family in there . . .



This is a time of year that you want to slow down the passing of hours, and enjoy every moment of every delightful day . . . to prolong the joy of anticipation . . . oh that we could. It would be lovely, but alas . . . this too will pass and be followed by another season of beauty, and so on . . . until next year when this journey will repeat itself in another blaze of garden glory.

Oh, I do so love this time of year!! What's happening in your garden?

I took some blackberries out of the freezer yesterday and treated Todd to a late winter/early spring blackberry cobbler. He really did enjoy it so very much! I didn't get a picture of it with the cream on . . . so you will just have to imagine how very tasty it looked!



*Blackberry Cobbler*
Serves 9 - 12
Printable Recipe

This wonderful version of blackberry cobbler is quite unusual in that you make a batter first for the blackberries to sit on. They don’t. They sink down into it and make a luscious and delicious filling that will have you coming back for seconds. The yummy streusel topping is chock full of crunchy nuts. This truly is the best!

½ cup of butter, melted
1 ½ cups caster sugar
1 ¾ cups plain flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 cup milk
24 ounces blackberries (fresh or frozen)
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
TOPPING:
1 ¾ cup light brown sugar
¾ cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
1 cup plain flour
1/3 cup butter, melted

Pre-heat the oven to 180*C/350*F. Place the first amount of melted butter in a 9 X 13 inch glass dish and set aside.

Mix together the 1 ½ cup caster sugar, flour and baking powder. Add the milk and whisk lightly together until smooth. Pour over the melted butter in the baking dish.

Put the blackberries and the 1 ¼ cups of the granulated sugar into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil. Pour over the top of the batter in the baking dish and place in the pre-heated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or so until the batter begins to brown.

In the meantime make the topping. Whisk together the brown sugar and flour. Stir in the chopped nuts and the melted butter, mixing until crumbly.

Once the batter has begun to brown, remove from the oven. Sprinkle the topping over top and return to the oven to bake for a further 15 to 20 minutes or until it is nice and bubbly and the topping is nicely browned.

Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Serve warm with some vanilla ice cream if desired. Custard and pouring cream also go very well with this, or nothing at all, which is how Todd likes it.



In The English Kitchen today, a delicious Sweet-Corn Soup.