mad city foodie

Creamy Potato Soup

2011-12-06T14:46:00.000-08:00

This has been 'soup week' at our house. I great way to stay warm when the weather turns a little cooler outside. There were snowflakes today, so I thought a bit more soup would do the trick.

Ingredients
1 onion chopped
2 tbsp butter
3 cups water
1 tsp dried tarragon
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 black pepper
1 small bag of snacking carrots (cut into bite size pieces)
4 medium baking potatoes (peeled and cut into bite size pieces)
2-3 zucchinis (peeled and cut into bite size pieces)
1 cup soy (or low-fat) milk

Directions
1. Cook onion in butter in dutch oven over low heat, stirring frequently, until onion is tender and translucent.
2. Stir in remaining ingredients, except potatoes, zucchini and milk.
3. Heat to boiling; reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 15 minutes.
4. Add potatoes and zucchini. Cover and cook until potatoes and zucchini are tender (about 15-20 minutes more).
5. Use a stick mixer or a blender to blend half of this potato mixture. Pour this blended half of soup back into dutch oven.
6. Stir in milk.
7. heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until hot and bubbly.
8. Enjoy!

**you can add a sprinkle of cheese to the top for an added bonus.

Mammograms!

2011-12-06T11:57:00.000-08:00

Much like a candy gram or a singing gram; mammograms should be an essential part of your healthy life; like it or not...

Taken from the National Cancer Institute for today's health info page:

1.What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast.

Mammograms can be used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. This type of mammogram is called a screening mammogram. Screening mammograms usually involve two x-ray pictures, or images, of each breast. The x-ray images make it possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt. Screening mammograms can also find microcalcifications (tiny deposits of calcium) that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer.

Mammograms can also be used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other sign or symptom of the disease has been found. This type of mammogram is called a diagnostic mammogram. Signs of breast cancer may include pain, skin thickening, nipple discharge, or a change in breast size or shape; however, these signs may also be indicators of benign conditions. A diagnostic mammogram can also be used to evaluate changes found during a screening mammogram or to view breast tissue when it is difficult to obtain a screening mammogram because of special circumstances, such as the presence of breast implants (see Question 13).

2.How are screening and diagnostic mammograms different?
Diagnostic mammography takes longer than screening mammography because more x-rays are needed to obtain views of the breast from several angles. The technician may magnify a suspicious area to produce a detailed picture that can help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis.

3.What are the benefits of screening mammograms?
Early detection of breast cancer with screening mammography means that treatment can be started earlier in the course of the disease, possibly before it has spread. Results from randomized clinical trials and other studies show that screening mammography can help reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer among women ages 40 to 74, especially for those over age 50. However, studies conducted to date have not shown a benefit from regular screening mammography in women under age 40 or from baseline screening mammograms (mammograms used for comparison) taken before age 40.

4.What are some of the potential harms of screening mammograms?
Finding cancer does not always mean saving lives―Even though mammograms can detect malignant tumors that cannot be felt, treating a small tumor does not always mean that a woman’s life will be saved. A fast-growing or aggressive cancer may have already spread to other parts of the body before it is detected. In addition, screening mammograms may not help a woman who is suffering from other, more life-threatening health conditions.

False-negative results―
False-negative results occur when mammograms appear normal even though breast cancer is present. Overall, screening mammograms miss up to 20 percent of breast cancers that are present at the time of screening.

The main cause of false-negative results is high breast density. Breasts contain both dense tissue (i.e., glandular tissue and connective tissue, together known as fibroglandular tissue) and fatty tissue. Fatty tissue appears dark on a mammogram, whereas dense tissue and tumors appear as white areas. Because fibroglandular tissue and tumors have similar density, tumors can be harder to detect in women with denser breasts.

False-negative results occur more often among younger women than among older women because younger women are more likely to have dense breasts. As a woman ages, her breasts usually become more fatty, and false-negative results become less likely. False-negative results can lead to delays in treatment and a false sense of security for affected women.

False-positive results―
False-positive results occur when radiologists decide mammograms are abnormal but no cancer is actually present. All abnormal mammograms should be followed up with additional testing (diagnostic mammograms, ultrasound, and/or biopsy) to determine whether cancer is present.

False-positive results are more common for younger women, women who have had previous breast biopsies, women with a family history of breast cancer, and women who are taking estrogen (for example, menopausal hormone therapy).

False-positive mammogram results can lead to anxiety and other forms of psychological distress in affected women. The additional testing required to rule out cancer can also be costly and time consuming and can cause physical discomfort.

Overdiagnosis and overtreatment―Screening mammograms can find cancers and cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS, a noninvasive lesion in which abnormal cells that may become cancerous form in the lining of breast ducts) that need to be treated. However, they can also find cancers and cases of DCIS that will never cause symptoms or threaten a woman’s life, leading to “overdiagnosis” of breast cancer. Treatment of these latter cancers and cases of DCIS is not needed, leading to “overtreatment.” Overtreatment exposes women unnecessarily to the adverse effects associated with cancer therapy.

Because doctors cannot currently distinguish cancers and cases of DCIS that need to be treated from those that do not, they are all treated.

Radiation exposure―Mammograms require very small doses of radiation. The risk of harm from this radiation exposure is low, but repeated x-rays have the potential to cause cancer. The benefits, however, nearly always outweigh the risk.

Women should talk with their health care providers about the need for each x-ray. In addition, they should always let their health care provider and the technician know if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

5.What are the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) recommendations for screening mammograms?
Women age 40 and older should have mammograms every 1 to 2 years.

Women who are at higher than average risk of breast cancer should talk with their health care providers about whether to have mammograms before age 40 and how often to have them.

6.What factors increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer?
The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age (see Question 7). A woman’s risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. The risk of breast cancer, however, is not the same for all women in a given age group. Research has shown that women with the following risk factors have an increased chance of developing breast cancer:

Personal history of breast cancer― Women who have had breast cancer are more likely to develop a second breast cancer.

Family history― A woman’s chance of developing breast cancer increases if her mother, sister, and/or daughter have been diagnosed with the disease, especially if they were diagnosed before age 50. Having a close male blood relative with breast cancer also increases a woman's risk of developing the disease.

Genetic alterations (changes)― Inherited changes in certain genes (for example, BRCA1, BRCA2, and others) increase the risk of breast cancer. These changes are estimated to account for no more than 10 percent of all breast cancers. However, women who carry certain changes in these genes have a much higher risk of breast cancer than women who do not carry these changes.

Breast density― Women who have a high percentage of dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer than women of similar age who have little or no dense tissue in their breasts. Some of this increase may reflect the “masking” effect of fibroglandular tissue on the ability to detect tumors on mammograms (see Question 4).

Certain breast changes found on biopsy― Looking at breast tissue under a microscope allows doctors to determine whether cancer or another type of breast change is present. Most breast changes are not cancer, but some may increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Changes associated with an increased risk of breast cancer include atypical hyperplasia (a noncancerous condition in which cells have abnormal features and are increased in number), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) (abnormal cells are found in the lobules of the breast), and DCIS. Because some cases of DCIS will eventually become cancer, this type of breast change is actively treated (see Question 4). Women with atypical hyperplasia or LCIS are usually monitored carefully and not actively treated. In addition, women who have had two or more breast biopsies for other noncancerous conditions also have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. This increased risk is due to the conditions that led to the biopsies and not to the biopsy procedures.

Reproductive and menstrual history― Women who had their first menstrual period before age 12 or who went through menopause after age 55 are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. Women who had their first full-term pregnancy after age 30 or who have never had a full-term pregnancy are also at increased risk of breast cancer.

Long-term use of menopausal hormone therapy― Women who use combined estrogen and progestin menopausal hormone therapy for more than 5 years have an increased chance of developing breast cancer.

Radiation therapy― Women who had radiation therapy to the chest (including the breasts) before age 30 have an increased risk of developing breast cancer throughout their lives. This includes women treated for Hodgkin lymphoma. Studies show that the younger a woman was when she received treatment, the higher her risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

Alcohol― Studies indicate that the more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk of breast cancer.

DES (diethylstilbestrol)― The drug DES was given to some pregnant women in the United States between 1940 and 1971 to prevent miscarriage. Women who took DES during pregnancy may have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. The effects of DES exposure on breast cancer risk in their daughters are unclear and still under study.

Body weight― Studies have found that the chance of getting breast cancer after menopause is higher in women who are overweight or obese.

Physical activity level― Women who are physically inactive throughout life may have an increased risk of breast cancer. Being active may help reduce risk by preventing weight gain and obesity.

7.What are the chances that a woman in the United States might develop breast cancer?
Age is the most important risk factor for breast cancer. The older a woman is, the greater her chance of developing the disease. Most breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. The number of cases is especially high for women over age 60. Breast cancer is relatively uncommon in women under age 40. The NCI fact sheet Probability of Breast Cancer in American Women provides more information about lifetime risk. This fact sheet is available at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Detection/probability-breast-cancer on the Internet.

8.What is the best method of detecting breast cancer as early as possible?
Getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam (an exam done by a health care provider) on a regular basis are the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early. As with any screening test, screening mammograms have both benefits and limitations. For example, some cancers cannot be detected by a screening mammogram but may be found by a clinical breast exam.
Checking one’s own breasts for lumps or other unusual changes is called a breast self-exam, or BSE. This type of exam cannot replace regular screening mammograms or clinical breast exams. In clinical trials, BSE alone was not found to help reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer.

Although regular BSE is not specifically recommended for breast cancer screening, many women choose to examine their own breasts. Women who do so should remember that breast changes can occur because of pregnancy, aging, menopause, during menstrual cycles, or when taking birth control pills or other hormones. It is normal for breasts to feel a little lumpy and uneven. Also, it is common for breasts to be swollen and tender right before or during a menstrual period. If a woman notices any unusual changes in her breasts, she should contact her health care provider.

9.What is the Breast Imaging Reporting and Database System (BI-RADS®)?
The American College of Radiology (ACR) has established a uniform way for radiologists to describe mammogram findings. The system, called BI-RADS, includes seven standardized categories, or levels. Each BI-RADS category has a follow-up plan associated with it to help radiologists and other physicians appropriately manage a patient’s care.

Additional information about BI-RADS is available on the ACR Web site at http://www.acr.org/SecondaryMainMenuCategories/quality_safety/BIRADSAtlas/BIRADSFAQs.aspx or by calling the ACR at 1–800–ACR–LINE (1–800–227–5463).

10.How much does a mammogram cost?
The cost of screening mammograms varies by state and by facility, and can depend on insurance coverage. However, most states have laws that require health insurance companies to reimburse all or part of the cost of screening mammograms. Women are encouraged to contact their mammography facility or their health insurance company for information about cost and coverage.

All women age 40 and older with Medicare can get a screening mammogram each year. Medicare will also pay for one baseline mammogram for female beneficiaries between the ages of 35 and 39. There is no deductible requirement for this benefit, but Medicare beneficiaries have to pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount. Information about Medicare coverage is available at http://www.medicare.gov on the Internet, or through the Medicare Hotline at 1–800–MEDICARE (1–800–633–4227). For the hearing impaired, the telephone number is 1–877–486–2048.

11.How can uninsured or low-income women obtain a free or low-cost screening mammogram?
Some state and local health programs and employers provide mammograms free or at low cost. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) coordinates the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. This program provides screening services, including clinical breast exams and mammograms, to low-income, uninsured women throughout the United States and in several U.S. territories. Contact information for local programs is available on the CDC’s Web site at http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/cancercontacts/nbccedp/contacts.asp or by calling the CDC at 1–800–CDC–INFO (1–800–232–4636).

Information about low-cost or free mammography screening programs is also available through NCI’s Cancer Information Service (CIS) at 1–800–4–CANCER (1–800–422–6237). Women can also check with their local hospital, health department, women’s center, or other community groups to find out how to access low-cost or free mammograms.

12.Where can women get high-quality mammograms?
Women can get high-quality mammograms in breast clinics, hospital radiology departments, mobile vans, private radiology offices, and doctors’ offices.

The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) is a Federal law designed to ensure that mammography is safe and reliable. Under the law, all mammography facilities operating in the United States must be certified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or an FDA-approved Certifying State as meeting stringent standards. To be certified, a mammography facility must be accredited by an FDA-approved accreditation body, have mammography equipment that is tested periodically, employ trained personnel to administer tests and interpret data, and have a quality assurance program. Certified facilities must also have a system for following up on abnormal mammographic findings and for obtaining biopsy results. Facilities must be inspected annually by FDA or State inspectors who have completed appropriate training.

Women can ask their doctors or staff at the local mammography facility about FDA certification before making an appointment. All mammography facilities are required to display their FDA certificate. Women should look for the MQSA certificate at the mammography facility and check its expiration date. MQSA regulations also require that mammography facilities give patients an easy-to-read report of their mammogram results.

Information about local FDA-certified mammography facilities is available through the CIS at 1–800–4–CANCER (1–800–422–6237). Also, a searchable list of these facilities is on the FDA’s Web site at http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfMQSA/mqsa.cfm on the Internet.

13.What should women with breast implants do about screening mammograms?
Women with breast implants should continue to have mammograms. (A woman who had an implant following a mastectomy should ask her doctor whether a mammogram of the reconstructed breast is necessary.) It is important to let the mammography facility know about breast implants when scheduling a mammogram. The technician and radiologist must be experienced in performing mammography on women who have breast implants. Implants can hide some breast tissue, making it more difficult for the radiologist to detect an abnormality on the mammogram. If the technician performing the procedure is aware that a woman has breast implants, steps can be taken to make sure that as much breast tissue as possible can be seen on the mammogram. A special technique called implant displacement views may be used.

14.What is digital mammography? How is it different from conventional (film) mammography?
Digital and conventional mammography both use x-rays to produce an image of the breast; however, in conventional mammography, the image is stored directly on film, whereas in digital mammography, an electronic image of the breast is stored as a computer file. This digital information can be enhanced, magnified, or manipulated for further evaluation more easily than information stored on film. Except for the difference in how the image is recorded and stored, there is no other difference between the two types of mammography.

Because digital mammography allows a radiologist to adjust, store, and retrieve digital images electronically, digital mammography may offer the following advantages over conventional mammography:

Health care providers can share image files electronically, making long-distance consultations between radiologists and breast surgeons easier.
Subtle differences between normal and abnormal tissues may be more easily noted.
Fewer follow-up procedures may be needed.
Fewer repeat images may be needed, reducing the exposure to radiation.
The FDA approved the use of digital mammography in January 2000. In September 2005, preliminary results from a large clinical trial that compared digital mammography with film mammography were published. These results showed no difference between digital and film mammograms in detecting breast cancer in the general population of women in the trial. However, the researchers concluded that digital mammography may be more accurate than conventional film mammography in women with dense breasts who are premenopausal or perimenopausal (i.e., women who had their last menstrual period within 12 months of their mammograms) or who are younger than age 50. Whether this improved accuracy will translate into a reduced risk of breast cancer death is not yet known.

Some health care providers recommend that women who have a very high risk of breast cancer, such as those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene alterations, have digital mammograms instead of conventional mammograms; however, no studies have shown that digital mammograms are superior to conventional mammograms for these women.

Digital mammography can be done only in facilities that are certified to practice conventional mammography and have received FDA approval to offer digital mammography. The procedure for having a mammogram with a digital system is the same as with conventional mammography.

15.What other technologies are being developed for breast cancer screening?
NCI is supporting the development of several new technologies to detect breast tumors. This research ranges from methods being developed in research labs to those that are being studied in clinical trials. Efforts to improve conventional mammography include digital mammography (see Question 14), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning.

16.How is NCI supporting efforts to find better ways to prevent and treat breast cancer?
NCI conducts and supports ongoing breast cancer research that ranges from basic science through the full spectrum of clinical care.

Basic research— Researchers are trying to identify the causes of breast cancer, including the role of gene changes or variations in addition to changes in BRCA1 and BRCA2. Scientists are also investigating how hormonal, dietary, and environmental factors might contribute to the development of breast cancer.

Prevention— As a result of NCI-supported research, the drugs tamoxifen and raloxifene have been approved by the FDA to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in women who are at high risk for the disease. Tamoxifen can be used by both premenopausal and postmenopausal women, whereas raloxifene is appropriate for postmenopausal women only. Currently, researchers are looking for additional ways to prevent breast cancer in women who are at increased risk. They are studying other preventive agents and whether changes in diet, physical activity, nutrition, and environmental factors may lead to a reduced risk of developing breast cancer.

Early detection and diagnosis— Several studies are trying to find ways to detect and diagnose breast cancer earlier in the development of the disease to improve the chance that women will receive treatment before the cancer has spread.

Treatment— Numerous studies are being conducted to find more effective and less toxic treatments for breast cancer, better ways to deal with the symptoms of the disease and the side effects of its treatment, and new approaches to improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients and survivors.

Curried Squash Soup

2011-12-05T19:18:00.000-08:00

I found the greatest looking butternut squash at the store about a week ago. It has been teasing me with it's good looks until I came up with the best idea for it... Soup!

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 medium red potatoes (peeled and chopped)
1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1t. ground dry sage)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 tbsp curry powder
3 cups fat-free chicken broth
1 1/2 lbs butternut squash

Directions:
1. Cut the squash in half and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes. I always add an extra drizzle of oil and an extra pinch or two of curry on top when it bakes. You can even bake the squash the night before and set in fridge until ready for the soup.
2. When squash is fork tender, remove from oven and set aside.
3. Add oil, garlic and onion to large stockpot over medium heat.
4. Saute for 3-4 minutes.
5. Add sage, salt, pepper, broth, potatoes and squash.
6. Bring to a boil.
7. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes (or until potatoes have a tender consistency).
8. Use stick blender to lightly puree, leaving some chunks, or puree half of the soup in a food processor or blender and return to pot.
9. Garnish with more fresh sage (if desired).

Swwwweeeetttt Potatoes!

2011-12-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

Ok, here goes the recipe of the week for me. I LOVED THESE! My dad-in-law was practically licking his plate and everyone else's too. Got the recipe here.

Ingredients for potato layer
4 cups sweet potato, mashed
1/2 cup white sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for topping
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Put sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan with water to cover. Cook over medium high heat until tender; drain and mash.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potatoes, white sugar, eggs, salt, butter, milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Transfer to a 9x9 inch baking dish.
3. In medium bowl, mix the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the butter until the mixture is coarse. Stir in the pecans. Sprinkle the mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
4. Bake in the preheated oven (uncovered)30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly brown and bubbly.

More about Thanksgiving

2011-11-30T13:18:00.000-08:00

Yes, someday I will move away from Thanksgiving and on to the next season. But, I made A LOT of food this past week and would love to share it with you all. I found another great recipe here for my stuffing. I'm a Tofurky girl myself, so I figured I could go crazy with the stuffing as I wouldn't be digging into it. It was pretty much gone after the 1st helping of leftovers.

Ingredients:
12 ounces bulk sausage or 12 ounces sausage links
1/2 cup butter
3 cups onions, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
6 cups cornbread stuffing mix
6 cups bread cubes
1 teaspoon rubbed sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
1 cup pecans, chopped
2 cups turkey broth or 2 cups chicken broth
2 eggs

Directions:
1. Saute sausage until brown; remove from pan and cut into small bites.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter and cook onion, celery, and mushrooms over medium heat for 3 minutes or until softened.
3. Transfer sausage and veggies, including any butter that is left in the pan to a bowl.
4. Add stuffing mix, bread cubes, sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, pecans, turkey stock, and eggs.
5. Toss well and adjust seasoning.
6. Stuffing should be moist but not soggy. Add more stock if needed.
7. Transfer to a baking dish.
8. Bake in a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for 20 minutes covered and 10 minutes uncovered until heated through and crust forms on top.
9. Or better yet stuff it into a big fat turkey.

I had plenty of stuffing here for my 18 pound beast and a full casserole besides.

**By the way, I did not have any leftover room in my oven for my Tofurky- so I cooked it up with onions and carrots on Saturday night for dinner. Served with a side of my new sweet potato recipe, I was set! That recipe will follow.

Oreo Balls (Reindeer Balls)

2011-11-29T13:09:00.000-08:00

I call them Oreo Balls. My mom-in-law calls them Reindeer Balls. I think her name limits you to a small part of the year to enjoy these tasty little guys. Let's go with Oreo Balls and have them all year round. Sorry mom-in-law...

**I found the recipe here.

Ingredients:
1 package regular size Oreo cookies, crushed (I cruch mine using a zip lock bag and my rolling pin)
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 package white almond bark
1/4 package chocolate almond bark

Directions:
1. Using a blender or hand held mixer, mix Oreos and cream cheese together.
2. Roll into walnut size balls.
3. Chill for an hour.
4. Melt approximately 3/4 package of white almond bark.
5. Stick a toothpick in an Oreo ball and dip it in the melted white almond bark.
6. Allow to harden on wax or parchment paper.
7. Takes about 15 min.
8. While waiting, melt about 1/4 package of chocolate almond bark.
9. When Oreo balls are no longer sticky to the touch, decorate with drizzles of chocolate almond bark.
10. I just use a sandwich bag with a tiny hole cut in one corner to drizzle the chocolate almond bark.

Ritz sandwiches

2011-11-25T09:38:00.000-08:00

I made these for Thanksgiving. They turned out pretty well and seemed to be a tasty treat for the kids.

1 package of chocolate/white bark
1 box of ritz crackers
1 jar peanut butter
1 jar of marshmallow fluff

Lather one ritz with peanut butter. Lather a second ritz with marshmallow fluff. Put the 2 covered ritz crackers together to make sandwiches. Melt the bark in the microwave using 30 second intervals until well melted. Cover the sandwiches with the bark and let sit on parchment paper to cool.

**you can use both white and dark bark to make them more festive. I dipped mine in dark bark and used the white bark to swirl on the top for decoration. You could also use candies or sprinkles on top for a nice touch of flair.

Happy Turkday!

2011-11-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

Yes, I said it... Turkday!

Well, we Fitchburg Nytes' (or maybe it's called Nyti as we are plural here) decided to start our day off with a kick. OK, not a kick but a good morning run. We participated in the 2011 Berbee Derby to get our energy levels up and running. We had a great time racing and motivating each other to a strong finish. We were all winners as we got to dive into the comforts of a home cooked meal afterwards to celebrate. There were a few sideline spectators cheering us on too (drinking Bailey Joes to keep warm). This is my type of run, as costumes are optional and everyone loves to show off their creativity.

showing some gratitude

2011-11-23T10:35:00.000-08:00

As tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I would like to make a short list of those things in my life that I'm thankful for:

my son
my husband
my 3 amigos
health
happiness
yoga
walking in the morning
my home
a job
oven smells
my co-workers
pizza
diet coke
4 seasons
holidays
clean sheets
new kitchen area
music
good books
tv watching with my boys
family snuggles
baking
fresh paint
high tea
scones
farmer's market
new recipes
a good sweat
humming
a hot shower
company coming to visit

Curry Quinoa Salad

2011-11-21T10:03:00.000-08:00

I adapted this recipe from Martha Stewart's collection. I was envisioning Martha mixing up recipes while she was in jail and it brought a smile to my face. I wonder if she critiqued the prison food while she was in or if they consulted with her on how to make the slop taste better. She probably was given catered goods to eat at her posh prison though.

So, here goes:

4 cups water
2 cups quinoa
1/3 cup honey
6 tbsp olive oil
4 green onions sliced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp coarse pepper
3 tsp curry
juice from 3 lemons
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1 small apple or pear, cut into small pieces

1.Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine sieve; drain. Bring 4 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add quinoa; return to a boil. Stir quinoa; cover, and reduce heat. Simmer until quinoa is tender but still chewy, about 15 minutes. Fluff quinoa with a fork; let cool.
2.Whisk together honey, onion, curry powder, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Season with pepper. Whisking constantly, pour in oil in a slow, steady stream; whisk until dressing is emulsified. Add quinoa, cranberries, apple (pear), and almonds; toss well.

Quinoa and its benefits with Diabetes

2011-11-21T06:15:00.000-08:00

Quinoa (pronounced Keen-Wah)

I saw this great article from Tracey Roizman, D.C., and it made me hungry for some quinoa salad (recipe to follow). The article is great at explaining some of the benefits of this delicious seed.

Quinoa originates from the Andes, where it has been cultivated for the last 6,000 years. Though not a true grain, quinoa seeds are eaten like a grain and the leaves are also eaten, though they are not widely available commercially. Quinoa is gluten-free and its protein quality is comparable to that of cow's milk, according to the Purdue University website. Recent research has revealed some compelling benefits of quinoa for blood sugar control and diabetes treatment.

Glucose Reduction
Quinoa reduced blood glucose by 10 percent in rats fed a high-fructose diet, according to a Polish study published in the December 2010 "Plant Foods and Human Nutrition." Other elements were similarly improved on the quinoa diet, including a 26 percent reduction in total cholesterol and an 11 percent reduction in triglycerides. Additionally, the researchers noted that while quinoa decreases triglyceride levels, it did not, however, have any ability to prevent adverse effects caused by the elevated triglycerides from the high-fructose diet.

Appetite Control
Its appetite-controlling properties may give quinoa an edge in the weight control aspect of diabetes treatment and prevention. An Italian study published in the November 2005 "British Journal of Nutrition" compared alternative grains, such as quinoa, oats and buckwheat to conventional grains, such as wheat and rice. The researchers concluded that white bread resulted in the least satiety. All of the alternative grains had higher degrees of satiety, resulting in lower overall food consumption. The researchers recommended quinoa for its ability to encourage less food consumption.

Blood Lipids
Decreased oxidation of blood lipids and increased antioxidant capacity of the blood, heart, kidney, testis, lung and pancreas were observed in a Polish study on quinoa in rats fed a high-fructose diet. As part of the study, published in the June 2010 "Plant Foods and Human Nutrition," researchers fed quinoa to the test animals at 310 g per kilogram of body weight for five weeks, along with a high-fructose diet. The researchers noted that the quinoa helped to maintain normal enzyme activity for certain enzymes and decreased levels of malondialdehyde, a byproduct of oxidation.

Antioxidant
In a study of 10 Peruvian Andean grains, pseudocereals and legumes, quinoa was found to be among the richest in the antioxidant quercetin and exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, at 86 percent. The Brazilian study, published in the August 2009 "Journal of Medicinal Food," indicates potential benefits for using these foods as effective management tools for Type II diabetes.

A bigger loser

2011-11-18T13:53:00.000-08:00

So... the weekly tally is in! I have lost a BIG 3.4% of my body fat! I have walked my dogs a couple of times this week and I just know that made all the difference. It wasn't the HUGE bag of Clary's popcorn that I gulped down this morning for breakfast and the HUGE snack of candy that I gobbled up the other night (Logan was gobsmacked at that display). He couldn't even believe his eyes. It was probably the first and only time that I've done that type of sugar intake in a couple of years. I had a moment of weakness and I'm over it now. WOW! Was I absolutely sick the next day. Not a good thing to do when you are not used to it. My body didn't know what to do. Tootsie rolls, Dots, and Charleston Chews until I couldn't chew no more!

I'm blaming the sugar fest on my worthless fantasy football team, who is still in last place. I need to give up the hope of making the play-offs and use my energy on something more worthwhile.

Pickled Radishes

2011-11-17T13:13:00.001-08:00

It is fall and I do love all things pickled. A great way to pop something in the fridge and pull out a week or two later for a delightful surprise! This type of 'cooking' is not for those that are procrastinators. Unless you are trying to find that last ditch recipe to save those fruits or veggies that are wilting on the counter or on the bottom of your fridge. This is a great way to save them now, to enjoy later! My radish recipe comes from here. I threw the radishes together last night in about 15 minutes and popped them into the fridge. Not all the radishes fit in the canning jar and made it into my mouth instead. Don't tell on me! I will report back in a couple of days to let you know how they all turned out. I will be posting a series on pickling in the next week or so. Stay tuned...

*** UPDATE- Spoiler alert... These are GREAT! Crunchy and delicious! I am going to make these all the time. They would be fantastic on a salad or just by themselves. The problem will be stopping myself once I get started on them.

My Life List

2011-11-15T08:04:00.000-08:00

My Life List

This isn’t a bucket list. These aren’t things I need to cross off before I die. I will not accomplish everything here, but that’s not the goal. This list exists simply as a collection of things I would like to do in my lifetime. If writing them down helps me focus, and in turn helps me achieve some of them, the list has served its purpose.

A list should never make you feel guilty for not accomplishing something! It should serve as a compass, opening you up to experiences that you may have discounted otherwise. I hope to hold myself more accountable and achieve more. I tend to do well with public lists.

I have italicized those that I have completed.

Experiences
• Live in a foreign city for a year
• Spend a week without electricity or running water
• Go on a 'Girls Only' holiday
• Host a traditional Turkday dinner
• Shake the President’s hand
• Have a hobby farm
• Raise chickens
• Host a baby shower
• Organize an event
• Throw a surprise birthday party
• See a tree that I’ve planted grow to maturity
• Keep a houseplant alive for at least a year
• Be completely debt-free (mortgage included)
• Help build a home for charity
• Host a murder mystery party
• Write my will
• Learn how computers work
• Find a cure
• See the top 1% share their wealth with the rest of us
• Experience equality among humans
• See compassion in everything
• Stop the hatred
• Cure the ignorant
• Win an Olympic medal
• Run in the Boston Marathon

Sights
• Look out over Paris from the Eiffel Tower
• Cross the Brooklyn Bridge
• Cross the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit Costa Rica
• Visit the Robie House, Fallingwater, and visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio in Oak Park
• Take the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s River Cruise
• Cross the Canadian border, eh
• Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright® Taliesin & Visitor Center
• Visit Japan
• Have a cheesy photo taken of me holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Visit all 50 states
• Go to China
• Walk on the Great Wall
• Travel in a 3rd world country
• Go to India
• Travel using a train

Just Plain Fun
• Picnic in the park
• Ride a roller-coaster with my hands up
• Experience weightlessness
• Fly a plane
• Write a haiku
• Solve a Rubik’s cube
• Wear a flapper dress
• Eat something new with a blindfold on
• Make a popular Youtube video
• Create a dance
• Skydive
• Scuba dive
• Ride a pogo stick
• Walk on stilts
• Eat the best gourmet dark chocolate
• Go cliff diving
• DJ at a club
• Practice yoga on the beach

• Family
• Have grandkids
• Go sledding
• Visit the state fair and listen to some bands
• Go roller skating again
• Have a professional family photo taken
• Watch Logan graduate from high school
• Watch Logan graduate from college
• Renew my wedding vows

• Home
• Paint all of the trim in our house white
• Make every room in our house exactly as I’d like
• Make the outside of our house as cute as the inside
• Have a home library with a rolling ladder
• Buy my dream home
• Own a coffee plantation

• Style
• Only wear lovely undergarments (that match)
• Ruthlessly edit my closet down to only my favorite things
• Determine a wardrobe’s essentials, then buy them in the best quality I can
• Find my perfect shade of lipstick
• Sew a dress for myself that I would actually wear
• Wear perfume regularly

• Skills
• Learn how to play the harmonica
• Learn how to use my camera in manual mode
• Play the guitar
• Matte and frame an original painting
• Take self defense classes

• Professional / Career
• Write a novel
• Be a keynote speaker
• Have a monthly column in a magazine
• Launch a magazine
• Direct a photo shoot
• Judge a dog competition
• Create a perfect resume for myself
• Figure out what my dream job would be
• Meet my Guru
• Find a mentor
• Mentor somebody
• Launch my yoga career
• Make enough money to support my family
• Make an appearance on TV
• Celebrate my retirement
• Compose a cookbook of original recipes
• Start a dog kennel
• Hire an assistant
• Volunteer on a regular basis
• Teach someone a new trade

• Projects
• Take a photo every day for a year
• Start a tradition
• Choose a good cookbook and cook every recipe in it
• Give only handmade gifts for the holidays
• Create an original painting

**I fully expect this list to change as time goes on.

Whey drink recipes

2011-11-13T11:41:00.000-08:00

I just made fast friends with the rocket blender at work. Decided to mix up a few different whey shakes for lunches this past week. I am HOOKED. Here are a couple of great ones to try.

Peanut Butter and Banana Blast

1.5 cups bananas (sliced frozen, frozen approx)
6-8 oz soy milk
1 scoop whey protein powder (vanilla flavored)
1 tbsp creamy peanut butter
2-3 packets splenda or stevia (sugar substitute)

*Whip it up and enjoy!

Perfect Pumpkin Pie

1 sweet potato (steamed, boiled, or baked in micro)
1.5 cups soy milk (unflavored)
1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder
1 dash pumpkin pie spice

*Again... whip it up and enjoy!

I'm a big loser

2011-11-12T07:36:00.000-08:00

We have decided to do the 'big loser' competition at work. Kind of a rivalry between co-workers and a little incentive to lose a few pounds in the midst of the holiday season. It started on Nov 1st and runs through Dec 20th. There are some great prizes for the winner and a lot of fun stuff along the way. We had a fitness/protein shake demostration yesterday and another fitness guru coming in today to educate us on health and well being. Here are the current standings (as of Nov 8th):

** I have initialed the others names to protect the innocent.

BIGGEST LOSER UPDATE
TOP TEN LOSERS -- WEEK 2*

1. D. V. -2.6%

2. S. K. -2.5%

3. M. W. & S. T. -2.4%

4. V. M., C. U. & P. M. -2.3%

5. B. S. -2.2%

6. J. L. -1.7%

7. L. G. -1.6%

8. D. S. -1.2%

9. Me , L. H. & S. B. -1.0%

10. N. C. -0.8%

As you can see, I have made it to the #9 spot. Much better than my fantasy football team ranking of dead last of 12 players.

I've lost 1% body weight in the first week. No bad for not trying. I won't tell anyone about the 2 mini snickers I had this weekend of the 2 bowls of cheese puffs I had on Monday night. After the weigh-in, I mentally decided to take up the challenge. If I win, I'm donating my 'winnings' to charity in some fashion or another. This will give me the extra push I need to lose the weight. Plus, it will be nice to slim down before more snow falls. It's going to be hard, as comfort food is nice to have when it's cold outside. I have some strong competition though. It's no biggie to win or lose. It's about finding yourself along the way.

Do I bake cookies for the office or do I bring in donuts every day? Just kidding fellow losers... or am I?

Zen poetry, pure and simple

2011-11-11T14:17:00.000-08:00

It is as though you have an eye
That sees all forms
But does not see itself.
This is how your mind is.
Its light penetrates everywhere
And engulfs everything,
So why does it not know itself?
Foyan

A great read for the day

2011-11-10T14:13:00.000-08:00

The True Nature of Temper

A Zen student came to Bankei and complained: “Master, I have an ungovernable temper. How can I cure it?”

“You have something very strange,” replied Bankei. “Let me see what you have.”

“Just now I cannot show it to you,” replied the other.

“When can you show it to me?” asked Bankei.

“It arises unexpectedly,” replied the student.

“Then,” concluded Bankei, “it must not be your own true nature. If it were, you could show it to me at any time. When you were born you did not have it, and your parents did not give it to you. Think that over.”

Leaf Me Alone

2011-11-09T13:39:00.000-08:00

Not sure where this come from, but I laughed out loud when I read it. I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

Leaf me alone.

Don’t bark at me like an angry dog

Don’t tell me to branch out or try and spruce me up.

Yew maple* me any way you wish

But I don’t want to go against my grain.

I like the roots I’ve got

And willow-er* my standards not a jot

(Though you wood say they’re low enough already).

I’m knot going to rowan* my life pining for you.

Don’t give me sage advice to make me poplar.

I’m alder than yew, your changes walnut* stick.

I have the balsa knot bough* before your Ivy League education

And I’ve found my grove,

Don’t blame me if I like acorny joke every now and then.

Yew can take that “holly-er than thou” attitude and shove it up your ash.

(I love puns)

Drywall Dust

2011-11-08T13:32:00.000-08:00

Drywall dust is a known health hazard and a huge nuisance in remodeling and new construction.

Drywall dust can also cause various adhesion problems and contaminates paint finishes. We have had clients spend hundreds of dollars trying to remove drywall dust from ventilation systems. People have spent several thousand dollars replacing ductwork, after dealing with continual dust the first two years in their newly constructed house. (The furnace was operated during drywall sanding, without covering the return air ducts). There are homeowners who have had major cleanup issues in the rest of their house after a remodeling project. This nuisance can easily be avoided with some widely available tools and equipment. Make sure to ask your general contractor for advice about the possibility of drywall dust and your new home project, whether it a small or large project.

Bruce Roy Brown

2011-11-07T13:26:00.001-08:00

Poor Bruce broke his toe over the weekend. Actually his dew claw. I guess that is equivalent to a toe. He has surgery tomorrow on both dews and a little face lift while he's under anesthesia. His eyes need a little tuck I guess. Helps with the entropian issue with his Shar-pei heritage. He will have to deal with the 'cone' for a few days. He is not going to be a happy camper. Anyone want to dog sit for me?

Ghoulish Gallop

2011-10-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

Today I participated in the Ghoulish Gallop for a great cause! Work up a sweat and help someone buy their first home. That sounds like a 'win, win' to me :)

Benefit: The South Central Wisconsin Housing Foundation

The REALTORS® Association of South Central Wisconsin Housing Foundation is a non-profit organization under the IRS code 501(c)(3). Created in 1989, the purpose of the Foundation is to increase and improve the supply of affordable housing in Dane, Columbia, Dodge, Jefferson, Rock, Green, Iowa and Sauk counties by providing down payment assistance in the form of low interest loans to individuals and families.

The other equally important aspect of our program is the money we lend to organizations such as Operation Fresh Start and Habitat for Humanity. We assist with the initial financing of the homes to be renovated or constructed. When these homes are sold to families who cannot afford to be in the general housing market, the money is returned to us to await the next request.

In the 17 years of our existence the Foundation has given out over one million dollars in loans: $620,000 for individual loans, helping more than 180 families to successfully purchase homes in South Central Wisconsin and $750,000 to organizations to help with their affordable housing projects.

The REALTORS® Association of South Central Wisconsin Housing Foundation - building a foundation for affordable housing in South Central Wisconsin.

All proceeds from this Event will go to the Housing Foundation and provide area residents with the resources to achieve their dream of home ownership.

My new favorite colors

2011-10-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Spicy Cayenne, Shortbread, Pumpkin Butter, Swiss Coffee and Gallery Taupe. Four of them have a common theme... food! Love it!

These are the new colors for our new kitchen and living room. It's been a lot of work, but will be well worth it when it's all done.

Saturday's yoga pose for diabetes

2011-10-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

ARDHAMAT SYENDRASASANA

This is the half position of Matsyendrasana, and it is named after the great sage Matryendra. It is basically exercises the vertebrae and helps keep them in good shape. It also helps the liver, spleen, bladder, pancreas, intestines and other abdominal organs. It also stretches and strengthens the spinal nerves. It is beneficial in the treatment of obesity, asthma and diabetes.

Technique
•You should sit erect on the ground.
•Stretch your legs in front of you.
•Place the left heal under the right thigh and thus keeping the left thigh straight.
•Then cross the right leg over the left thigh and place the right foot flat on the ground.
•Pars the left arm over the right and clash the big toe of the right foot.
•Grasp the left thigh from the rear with the right hand.
•Turn the head, neck, shoulders and trunk to the right, bringing the chin in line with the right shoulder.
•Maintain this position for a few seconds, gradually increasing the duration to 2 minutues.
•Repeat the same process on the other side for the same duration.

Friday's yoga pose for diabetes

2011-10-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

SHAVASANA(Dead Body Pose)
It is also known as Corpse Pose. The Corpse Pose is an excellent posture that can be used between poses that allows total relaxation. Simply let the muscles relax, feel the circulation of prana throughout the system and be attuned to cosmic energies. This pose can also be practiced any time when you require a few minutes of total rest and relaxation. If desired, you can watch the breathing rhythm and inwardly chant the mantra of your choice. This exercise helps to lower high blood pressure, relieves physical fatigue and mental tension. It teaches mental concentration. It brings about relaxation, peace and tranquility. It is particularly beneficial for people suffering from diabetes, anxiety, worry and mental tension. This exercise should be done at both the beginning and at the end of a daily round of yogic asanas. It stimulates blood circulation and exercises inner organs.

Techniques
Lie down on your back in a quiet place. Place your arms beside the body, palms facing up. Heals should be kept slightly apart. Breath slowly and deeply, feeling a sense of calm relaxation come over your whole body. Concentrate on loosening all tensions.

The following variation will increase the person’s ability to relax.
•Slowly inhale through the nostrils and tense the ankles feet and toes. Hold the breath while you tighten the muscles. Exhale and relax.
•Slowly inhale and contract the kneecaps, calves, ankles, feet and toes. Hold and tighten. Exhale and relax.
•Slowly inhale, contracting all the muscles of the abdomen, pelvic area, hips, thighs, kneecaps, calves, ankles, feet and toes. Hold the breath and tighten the muscles. Exhale and relax.
•Inhale. Tense the neck, shoulders, arms and elbows, wrists, hands and fingers, chest muscles, down to the toes. Hold and tense. Exhale and relax.
•Inhale and contract the scalp, the tiny muscles of the face, the forehead, squint the eyes, wrinkle the nose and mouth, tighten the tongue, constrict the throat and tighten the whole body. Hold and feel the terrible tension. Exhale and relax. Now, let the strain melt into the floor. Feel heavy. Enjoy the support of the floor. Sense the tingling of fresh circulation, the new muscles tone and emotional calm. Discontinue the exercise when the person‘s legs go numb.

Thursday's yoga pose for diabetes

2011-10-20T10:48:00.000-07:00

VAJRASANA
The vajra or thunderbolt is regarded as the weapon of the lord Indra, the lord of goods. Similarly this asana may be regarded as the king of all asana related with the mind, the king of all the senses. Vajra is major pulse (nadi) directly related with the genito urinary system which regulates the sensual energy of one's body. Vajrasana series asanas are mostly recommended in therapeutic yoga. There is hardly anyone who has never been afflicted with sensual or digestive problems. The vajrasana series plays on important role in alleviating waist pain, spinal cord or shoulder pain. It is also quite effective for menstrual disorders and after normal delivery. There is no time limitations for these asanas. The only provision is that the person performing it should be an empty stomach and healthy. You can perform vajrasana during menstruation too. This relieves one from pelvic strain, waist pain or burning sensation. During vajrasana, the vital energy flows towards sahsradhara from muladhara, which helps in meditation. Even those who are suffering from a slip disc, can perform vajrasana easier than some other meditation poses.

Technique
•Bend the knees and holding them together sit down.
•Place the buttocks over both the soles.
•Hold the spinal chord and the neck straight.
•Place the palms over the knees.
•Relax and close the eyes.
•Do not allow the body to move forward or backward.
•Practice this according to your comfort level; particularly after the meal.
•Breath from your abdomen while in the pose.

Vajrasana can be performed even after meals.

Wednesday's yoga procedure for diabetes

2011-10-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

ANULOMA-VILOMA
Anuloma Viloma is also called Alternate Nostril Breathing. It is also known as Nadishudhan pranayama and it is another process of purification. It strengthens the lungs and calms the nerves. It helps the human body to get rid of the toxins that have built up through stress and pollution. It also helps to cure cough and colds, insomnia, chronic headaches and asthma. Normally, the person performing this exercise, actually inhales through one nostril and then he or she has to retain the breath for a few moments and then exhale the air through the other nostril. As a general rule our left nostril is considered to be the path of the Nadi, called Ida and the right one the path of the Nadi called pingala. A healthy person is very likely to breathe through the Ida nostril for approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, followed by the other nostril. Unfortunately, due to a series of factors related to the precarious health condition, many people have their breathing rhythm disturbed. In such cases, Anuloma Viloma restores, equalizes and gradually balances the flow of Prana in your body.

Steps to be followed while practicing this technique
•You should sit in a comfortable meditative pose keeping the head, neck and spine erect. Place your left hand on your left knee or thigh.
•Place your right index and middle finger on the space between your eyebrows. Then, place your right thumb on your right nostril, while the right ring finger should be placed on the left nostril. Start inhaling through the left nostril, by closing the right one to a count of four.
•Hold your breath and count up to sixteen.
•Then exhale through your right nostril, to the count of eight, while closing the left nostril with the ring finger.
•To the count of four, you should inhale through the right nostril by keeping the left one closed.
•To the count of sixteen, you should hold your breath by closing both nostrils.
•Then exhale through the left nostril, to the count of eight while keeping the right nostril closed.

**The inhaling and exhaling should be done very slowly and without making any sound. This exercise should be repeated 10 times.

Tuesday's yoga procedure for diabetes

2011-10-18T11:46:00.000-07:00

KAPALBHATI
This is a power-breathing technique that helps to overcome stress, depression, and everything negative in few minutes. It is the only technique used particularly for mind purificication among all the yoga cleansing exercises. It is derived from Sanskrit words “Kapal” which means the skill and “Bhati” which means polishing or shining. Hence, kapalbhati is a technique which helps to make the head “sparkling clean” and devoid of toxins. Kapalbhati is a remarkable tool for cleansing the mind of negative values.

Though, cleansing breath is a simple procedure, but it is important that it should be done properly and in an accurate way.

Technique
•You should sit in a comfortable position with your spine erect. You can sit either cross-legged or in any position that you feel comfortable.
•Breathe normally for a minute. Once composed, you can begin with the exercise.
•First of all, exercise the diaphragm by exhaling the air out from the lungs, suddenly and quickly through both nostrils, producing a “puffing” sound. You should not focus on inhalation. It will be automatic and passive.
•Exhale the air completely from the lungs with a sudden, vigorous stroke while simultaneously drawing the abdominal muscles inward.
•The breath should be expelled fully. Inhaling is automatic and the abdominal muscles will relax automatically.
•This exercise should be done in three rounds, each consisting of 11 strokes (for the beginner).
•Each round should take about a minute. A little rest can be taken in between the rounds according to your needs.
•Throughout the exercise the chest should be kept still without expansion or contraction. Only be diaphragm is used for breathing and not the upper chest.

It has been observed that the heat generated during this exercise has powerful effects on the respiratory system because it purifies the nasal passage and the lungs. In case of asthmatic patients, it removes spasms in the bronchial tubes. Over a month, the number of strokes per minutes can be gradually increased from 11 to about 30.

Regular practice of this exercise (once or twice a day) will truly show amazing results. It is really one of the only methods to clear the mind of toxins and negative emotions. This technique assists with large-scale elimination of carbon dioxide and a huge absorption of oxygen. Hence, we can say, 'Kapalbhati brings sparks into one’s life'.

Monday's yoga practice for diabetes

2011-10-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

JALA NETI
Jala neti is a very effective method to provide relief from allergies, common cold and even asthma. It really works wonders in relieving headaches and facilitates youthfulness. Jala neti is saline nasal irrigation, which helps thousands of people with sinus infections. It clears away the impurities in your nasal passage and throat. It also shows remarkable effects in cases of hay fever. It provides relief instantly and naturally.

Procedure
•You should take a clean jala neti pot.
•Fill the pot with warm slightly salted water.
•You should stand erect over a sink and tilt your head slightly to the right.
•The spout of the pot is inserted into your left nostril and the water is poured into it.
•You should inhale and exhale through your mouth, hence allowing the water to flow out through your right nostril.
•This procedure is reversed by tilting the head to the left and allowing the water to flow from the right to the left nostril.

Jala neti is not as hard or uncomfortable as one may think at first. It is a very simple and effective method of health maintenance. Once you learn how to perform it, you can incorporate this exercise into your daily routine.

**Most important, you should perform Jala neti only in the morning.

Sunday's yoga pose for diabetes

2011-10-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Although yoga cannot cure diabetes, it can complement the lifestyle changes which are necessary to keep your diabetes under control. It also helps in keeping you in good health and well-being. Yoga can create a life that is full, happy, healthy and balanced. If you want to lose weight, yoga helps you build up concentration and willpower, which makes it easier to stay on a weight-loss program. Yoga exercises gently tone and also improve circulation, particularly to the extremities. Yoga exercises in combination with relaxation training, reduces blood pressure. Yoga exercises reduce the harmful effects of physical and mental stress.

SUN SALUTATION
Sun salutation is a very good exercise for diabetics because it increases the blood supply to various parts of body and thus improves insulin administration in the body. All the benefits of exercise are achieved if four rounds are practiced per minute.

ASANAS
Asanas are beneficial in treatment of diabetes. Due to various twists, stretches and strains in the body, the internal organs are stretched and subjected to strain. They increase the blood supply, oxygen supply to the organs and thus increasing the efficiency and functioning of the organs. Stretching various glands result in increased efficiency of the endocrine system. During asanas, there is a direct influence of the pancreatic secretion by rejuvenation of the pancreatic cell. There is reduction in blood sugar due to muscular exercise performed in the asanas. During yogic asanas various postures are maintained. The best time for yogic asanas is early mornings and evenings. Generally, yogic exercises are performed on an empty stomach or there should be a gap of at least half an hour after a light snack and/or three hours after a full meal. It has been recommended that people who suffer from diabetes can eat something immediately after performing exercises. The asanas should be done in an area that is clean, airy and far away from noise pollution. The person should be wearing light, loose and airy clothes. During performing yogic exercise, you should sit on the floor. Generally, the word Parmatma means the universal soul. You should start with simple movements and positions before progressing into more complicated postures. You should focus on the breath during the maintenance period of the posture, with the eyes closed or focused on a point. This helps to focus the mind and the proper way to manage stress and tensions in the body. The postures found to be effective in the control and cure of various diseases are as follow.

Paschimottanasana or Posterior –stretching pose (shown above)
It is a very good stretching exercise in which the posterior muscles are stretched and relaxed. The main advantages of this exercise is that a) It calms the brain and helps relieves stress and milk depression (b) It stretches the spine, shoulders (c) It improves digestion (d) It stimulates the liver, kidneys, ovaries and uterus (e) It helps in relieving the symptoms of menopause and menstrual discomfort (f) It soothes headache and anxiety and reduces fatigue (g) This exercise also increases appetite, reduces obesity and cures diabetes.

Paschimottanasana is contraindicated in patients with Asthma, Back Injury and Diarrhea.

Step by step procedure of performing this exercise.
•You should sit on the floor with buttocks supported on a folded blanket.
•Stretch the legs out in front, keeping them close to each other.
•Bend the trunk and head forward from the waist without bending the knees and clasp the big toes with the fingers of the hand.
•While holding the toes and without bending the knees, the person should rest his forehead on his knees.
•This final pose is held for a four seconds.
•Then the person should return to the starting position very slowly.

***Any pregnant women and people who suffer from low back pain and/or a slipped disc should not perform this exercise.

It is flu season

2011-10-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

Blood Type and Influenza

by Gregory Kelly, ND and Peter D'Adamo ND

Since the publication of Eat Right 4 Your Type nearly two years ago, we have found out a great deal about elderberry fruit. In fact, Peter and I have come to increasingly rely upon a great-tasting mix of elderberry, blueberry, and cherry in our clinical practice. While the versatility of elderberry and these other berries is incredible, this article is going to limit itself primarily to a focus on elderberry's most well known use---as a remedy in the common "flu".

Many medical experts consider the influenza virus (cause of the "flu") to be the most dangerous virus in the world. Several times in past history, this virus has been responsible for killing huge numbers of people within a 1 to 2 year period. As an example, the "Spanish flu" (type A(H1N1)) of 1918-19 killed about 500,000 people in the U.S. and at least 20 million people worldwide. In 1957-58, the "Asian flu" (type A(H2N2)) resulted in 70,000 deaths in the U.S., and in 1968-69, the "Hong-Kong flu" (type (A(H3N2)) killed 34,000 in the U.S.

What is the flu?

Let's pause here and take a moment to get a clearer picture of what the "flu" really is. Terminology and language can be fickle and non-specific masters, and so the common day-to-day use of the term "flu" has evolved to often encompass anything from a "common cold" to a true "flu". The "stomach flu" is another misleading term, often used to describe a gastrointestinal illness (the "stomach flu" is usually not even caused by a virus but by other microorganisms). So, the first critical point to understand is that a "flu" is not a common cold or a stomach infection.

When researchers, or doctors speak of the "flu", they are being very specific and mean an infection by the influenza virus. Epidemic influenza is divided into type A and type B. The most common presentation of influenza includes a fever (usually 100-103 degrees F in adults), respiratory symptoms (such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose), headache, muscle aches, and often extreme fatigue. So, the second key point is that public health officials and doctors mean influenza virus when they use the term "flu".

The year-in, year-out "flu" can be deadly (in an average year, influenza is associated with about 20,000 deaths), especially for the elderly, immuno-compromised, or those who have an existing condition, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Even for those of us who are in generally good health, the "flu" can still really "take the wind out of our sails", causing us to feel miserable for several days to a week or two.

Currently there are three main variants of the "flu" circulating (two types "A" and one type "B"). The type A variants are the "Hong Kong" type A(H3N2) virus and its relatives (responsible for about 400,000 deaths in the United States since 1968 (90% of which are among the elderly), and distant relatives of the "Spanish Flu", type A(H1N1). The "H" and "N" refer to viral proteins called haemagglutinin (H) and the neuraminidase (N) (more on this in a bit).

Some medical and public health experts believe it is only a matter of time (in fact they think we are overdue) before a new pandemic (worldwide epidemic) of the "flu" occurs, killing many, many people. Why has the flu been able to kill such large numbers of people so quickly in the past? I am going to oversimplify here, but follow along. The "flu" virus is able to mutate or change over time, allowing it to reinfect you year after year. Usually this is a slow and very gradual process (both type A and B influenza virus can change in this manner). As an example, if you were exposed to last year's "flu" virus, your immune system would have created a very specific memory of how to effectively deal with the virus. A new exposure to the same virus would not now be a problem. Since the virus changes a slight amount each year, last years immune memory will partially, but not completely protect you from this year's influenza infection. Think of it in terms of not seeing a friend for a long while...they will obviously look a bit different, so it might take a moment for you to recognize them and remember their name. However, once this moment passes and you remember the name, you now have a clear idea of how to greet them.

However, every once in a while, the type A "flu" virus (the type B does not change in this manner) will have a dramatic and abrupt change to either its haemagglutinin (H) and/or neuraminidase (N) proteins. This results in a new strain of the virus, which is not recognized as something your immune system dealt with in the past. It would be as if a new person moved into your town; you have no information in your memory to identify them as your friend and no idea of the name. In the years that the "flu" virus became a worldwide epidemic and killed into the millions of people, the "flu" virus changed in this manner.

Blood type and the "flu"?

Quite a few different researchers have investigated blood type and influenza. The volume of research alone is almost enough to suggest strong blood type connections, but let's look at the research just to be sure.

After exposure to the influenza virus, an immune process termed "seroconversion" should occur. This means that your immune system should be producing antibodies against the influenza virus. Researchers have found that after circulation of influenza A (type (H1N1) and (H3N2)) and influenza B viruses, the immune response (as measured in a rise in antihaemagglutinin antibodies against the virus) differ along blood type lines.

The following generalized immune observations apply:
Blood type A: Overall has a great ability to generate a quick and substantial antibody response against influenza type A(H1N1) and especially A(H3N2). Their antibody response against influenza B is not quite as dramatic.
Blood type AB: Relatively poor ability to generate high antibody levels against any of the influenza viruses.
Blood type B: Reasonable, but not great ability to generate an antibody response against influenza A(H1N1). Slowest (it can take them 3-5 months) and weakest ability to generate antibodies against influenza A(H3N2) of any blood type. Against influenza B virus, blood type B has a significant advantage and responds differently from either blood group A or O. The blood type B immune response happens much earlier and persists longer.
Blood type O: Relatively descent ability to generate antibody response against influenza A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) viruses. Antibody response against influenza B is not as dramatic as blood type B.
Some researchers have hypothesized that one explanation for the typical emergence of the new epidemic strains of influenza in Asia is connected to blood type (and the relatively high proportion of type B blood found in Asia). It seems that blood type B has a genetic predisposition to latent (chronic) persistence of influenza A virus (especially A(H3N2) "Hong Kong" variants). Often, the influenza virus antigen can still be found in healthy type B individuals as much as 5 months after a "flu". This means that although they might not have symptoms, they are providing a safe harbor for the virus.

With these differences in immune responses, we would expect to see differences in susceptibility to and severity of influenza infection between the different blood types...and indeed we do. What we find is that the susceptibility to influenza changes based upon your blood type and the properties of the circulating strains of influenza virus.

Looking at influenza A as a whole, the following blood type generalities exist. People with blood type B (and AB) are going to be much more susceptible to infection during times when new antigenic variants and serotype's of influenza virus appear. This is actually particularly bad news for B's and AB's, since this is the type of influenza A virus change that results in widespread flu pandemics. Blood type O individuals tend to be susceptible to influenza infection at the period of the circulation of virulent strains (so in years when the flu is making people feel really sick, type O will be hit the hardest). Type A's are the lucky ones when it comes to influenza A; they have a generalized susceptibility to the less virulent strains of influenza A.

Overall, influenza is probably most problematic year to year for Type AB's. In general, they are more sensitive to infection by both influenza A and B than the other blood types. They are affected by these viruses earlier and more severely than those with the other blood groups (and they need to be extra cautious regarding an abrupt change in the influenza A virus as well) . Blood type B is going to be most severely affected when the influenza A(H3N2) (this in the "Hong Kong" variety and its relatives) is in circulation, has relatively little difficulty with influenza B, and has to be very concerned about an abrupt change in the influenza A strains. Type O gets less influenza A(H1N1) and more A(H3N2). Type A blood indirectly offers relative protection against both strains of influenza A.

Will the flu shot protect me?

Does the flu shot protect the blood types differently? Well, what the research shows is that all blood types will have similar seroconversion frequencies to both the live attenuated and killed subunit vaccines after the administration of TWO doses. But after only ONE dose of the live vaccine, blood type A is much more likely than the other blood types to seroconvert. The lesson to be learned here is that blood types B, AB and O really should probably get two doses of the live vaccine for best results (most type A's can probably get away with just one dose). With the killed subunit vaccine, type O produces the greatest anti-haemagglutinin antibody response. Again two doses generally places the blood types on equal ground.

In addition to the blood type information, remember the following. This year's "flu" shot is made from the most common "flu" viruses in circulation last year. So, in most years, when the virus changes only a tiny bit from last year, the "flu" shot will offer some protection.

Note: There are many people nevertheless who benefit significantly from the "flu" shot including elderly, chronically ill, and immuno-compromised individuals. For more information on who should receive this vaccination it is advised that you contact a physician or the department of public health.

Essentially, the effectiveness of the flu shot is always going to be dependent on how closely the vaccine matches the strain of flu virus in current circulation. So, if the virus changes dramatically from last year (as it did in the pandemic years), the "flu" shot will be of little to no use, because, in essence, it is not providing you with any one who knows this new person in town. So a key point then with regards to the "flu" shot is that it offers protection in most years, but probably not from a pandemic "flu".

Antivirals and the "flu"

Amantadine and rimantadine are chemically related drugs that interfere with the replication cycle of influenza type A viruses (they are not effective against influenza type B). They both offer a descent degree of protection against infection if taken daily during "flu" season; however, cost, compliance, and side-effects limit this type of use for most people.

Amantadine and rimantadine are also useful in treatment of the "flu"; able to reduce the severity and shorten the duration of influenza A if given within the first 48 hours. One huge drawback with these antiviral's is that they result in Amantadine- and rimantadine-resistant influenza A viruses when they are used for treatment (a very poor long-term strategy resulting essentially in a possible ineffectiveness of these drugs when you might need them the most for a severe or life-threatening "flu").

Zanamivir and Neuraminidase Inhibitors

Zanamivir was the first in a new class of drugs known as selective viral neuraminidase inhibitors. And, if in fact the old saying that "imitation is the most sincere form of flattery" holds true, this type of drug must hold tremendous promise. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies (including one of the industry giants---Hoffman La Roche) have quickly jumped on the neuraminidase band-wagon and are now either planning a launch or are in the process of developing their own neuraminidase inhibitors.

The reason Zanamivir is such a promising development is that in humans it not only prevents influenza infection, but also reduces the duration and intensity of the typical symptoms if given within the first 30 hours during an influenza infection. Let's take a moment here to discuss haemagglutinins and neuraminidase in the context of influenza (remember these are the H and N in the A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) strains).

The influenza virus forms haemagglutinins (essentially protein spikes) which release an enzyme called neuraminidase in order to spread to new cells and propagate the infection. From a biochemistry perspective, neuraminidase is an enzyme that cleaves terminal sialic acid residues from glycoconjugates (Does the term glycoconjugate remind you of anything? It should, because the antigens on your cells like your ABO marker are gycoconjugates). By cleaving off the sialic acid sugar, the virus can escape from infected cells, spread to new cells, and make the mucus you produce in response to an infection less effective (yes, the runny nose and mucus you produce in response to a cold or flu are actually part of your body's defense strategy).

It was assumed that an ability to inhibit neuraminidase would be a useful medical intervention for treating (and maybe preventing) the "flu". So far in the trials on Zanamivir, this assumption appears to be true. The biggest disadvantage with Zanamivir is that it is not well absorbed orally, so must be given by inhalation. Its use might also be limited by its cost. So far, researchers claim that resistance of the virus to the drug has been only rarely observed (but remains a possible area of concern).

Elderberry and the "Flu"

So where does elderberry fit in this portrait of the "flu". I have mentioned it was used historically, but does it work? In experiments, elderberry actually does inhibit replication of all strains of human influenza (both A and B) viruses tested.

In an actual placebo-controlled, double blind study (the scientific gold-standard so to speak) an extract of elderberry fruit has been shown to be effective for treating influenza B. What this research showed was that people using the elderberry extract got better much quicker (more than 70% were better after 2 days and over 90% of people completely resolved the infection within 3 days). In contrast, the people given a placebo often needed as much as 6 days to feel well.

Why does elderberry work? Well, the researchers found two reasons really. People taking the elderberry were able to produce higher anti-haemagglutination titers to influenza B (meaning their immune system essentially performed better and they now have a higher level of recognition should this "flu" return). And, elderberry inhibits neuraminidase (yes, that is the same neuraminidase that scientists are spending millions of dollars designing drugs against). (Editor's note: Zanamivir to an extent duplicates this neuraminidase blocking ability of elderberry, but does not appear to have elderberry's beneficial impact on the immune system).

An important question that has not been answered yet is...will elderberry work as well against influenza A strains? I don't have a definitive answer for you on this yet, but based upon its method of action, its in vitro ability, and my clinical observations, the answer is probably yes. Our patients taking the elderberry, blueberry, cherry and apple concentrate mixture, seemed to pass easily through this past "flu" season. The one word of caution I leave you with is that when it comes to daily use of elderberry, more is not always better. Large doses will lead to nausea. If you are trying to avoid a "flu" a small amount daily might help. I recommend elderberry especially for type B's and AB's because of their general susceptibility to the virus. For treatment we use 2 tablespoons 3-4 times daily for adults and less for children depending upon their body weight.

So, the final key point is...next "flu" season remember your friendly elderberry.

REFERENCES

1. Naikhin AN, Katorgina LG, Tsaritsyna IM, et al. Indicators of collective immunity to influenza depending on the blood group and sex of the population. Vopr Virusol 1989 Jul-Aug;34(4):419-23 [Article in Russian]
2. Aho K, Pyhala R, Visakorpi R. ABO associated genetic determinant in H1N1 influenza. Tissue Antigens 1980 Oct;16(4):310-3
3. Lebiush M, Rannon L, Kark JD. The relationship between epidemic influenza (A(H1N1) and ABO blood group. J Hyg (Lond) 1981 Aug;87(1):139-46
4. Sominina AA, Tsubalova LM, Karpova LS, et al. Genetic predisposition to latent influenza A virus in children with blood type B(III) as a possible cause of new epidemiologic strains in the countries of South-Eastern Asia. Vestn Ross Akad Med Nauk 1994;(9):21-4 [Article in Russian]
5. Fedorova GI, Slepushkin AN, Popova NS, et al. Correlations of the antigenic specificity of human blood with the levels of antihemagglutinins to influenza viruses. Vopr Virusol 1983 Jan-Feb;28(1):54-7 [Article in Russian]
6. Mackenzie JS, Fimmel PJ. The effect of ABO blood groups on the incidence of epidemic influenza and on the response to live attenuated and detergent split influenza virus vaccines. J Hyg (Lond) 1978 Feb;80(1):21-30
7. Mackenzie JS, Wetherall JD, Fimmel PJ, et al. Host factors and susceptibility to influenza A infection: the effect of ABO blood groups and HL-A antigens. Dev Biol Stand 1977 Jun 1-3;39:355-62
8. Frolov VK, Sokhin AA, Sotnik AY, et al. Polymorphism of human blood groups and incidence of influenza A/Hong Kong (H3N2). Acta Virol 1975 Sep;19(5):406-12
9. Karpova LS, Popova TL, Oleinikova EV, et al. Significance of persons with different blood groups in the influenza type A epidemic process. Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol 1982;(11):86-91 [Article in Russian]
10. Waghorn SL, Goa KL. Zanamivir. Drugs 1998;55:721-25
11. Zakay-Jones Z, Varsano N, Zlotnik M, et al. Inhibition of several strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an elderberry extract (Sambucus nigra L.) during an outbreak of influenza B Panama. J Altern Complement Med 1995;1:361-369.

Red Cross

2011-10-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

I give blood. Do you? I save 3 lives every time I donate blood and you can too. I went on my birthday to donate. I figured if I can have a birthday, why can't someone else have one too. I don't want to get old alone. I got a call to donate this last time. The guy told me that they were 4 days away from running out of blood to use. WOW! That is not good.

If you can't give much; give what you can. It doesn't cost money to donate; just a small part of your day (1 hour) every 2 months.

Please think about donating sometime.

Good Ol' Lynch Syndrome

2011-10-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

Lynch syndrome (HNPCC or Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer ) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition which has a high risk of colon cancer[1] as well as other cancers including endometrium, ovary, stomach, small intestine, hepatobiliary tract, upper urinary tract, brain, and skin. The increased risk for these cancers is due to inherited mutations that impair DNA mismatch repair.

In honor of...

2011-10-12T12:25:00.000-07:00

All the breasts out there!

I'm thinking of you and hope you don't get cancer. Cancer sucks!

I have been doing the Susan G Komen run each year and it is important to know about your health.

Here is a little bit about breast cancer in the United States from their website:

WOMEN
In 2011, it is estimated that among U.S. women:

•There will be 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer (includes new cases of primary breast cancer among survivors, but not recurrence of original breast cancer among survivors).
•There will be 57,650 new cases of in situ breast cancer (includes ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), of those, about 85 percent were DCIS). DCIS is a non-invasive breast cancer and LCIS is a risk factor that increases the risk of invasive breast cancer. Learn more about DCIS and breast cancer risk. Learn more about LCIS and breast cancer risk.
•There will be 39,520 breast cancer deaths.

MEN
Breast cancer in men is rare, but it does happen. In 2011, it is estimated that among U.S. men:

• There will be 2,140 new cases of breast cancer.
• There will be 450 breast cancer deaths.

I'm Back...

2011-10-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

Wow! I have had some time off to experience life. And all that it has to offer. Good and bad. This year has flown by so fast and I can't believe that it is October already! There was a blow up snowman erected today outside my window at work. Not sure if I like him yet or not. We'll give it some time to see if he and I become friends.
I've had a chance to do some fun things this year. I did the Madison half marathon, the Warrior Dash (yes, I am a Warrior), and few fun bike rides with family and friends. I'm moving a little slower than last year, but the tortoise beats the hare. I have a few fun runs coming up still for Halloween and Thanksgiving. And then the holidays will be upon us...

President Obama Comes to Madison!

2010-09-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

We waited in line for a few hours to see Obama in Madison. This is the second time an incumbent President has been to the University of Madison campus. The last time was Truman in 1950! We got to see Russ Feingold speak too. They are just awesome. Ben Harper played a few songs in between the speakers for us. It was worth the long line. Unfortunately, not all of the people in line got in to see him speak. We were very lucky.

We were about 30 feet from the President of the United States on Tuesday! He was awesome to see in person. Much cuter than photos and TV action. He is getting a little greyer and it looks great on him.

(no Michelle at rally though)

This has been a great year for me. I went to see the Dalai Lama in person earlier this year, and now this!

Congrats to Jules and Sethley!

2010-09-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Well, they finally tied the knot!

We were all looking very dapper that day...

Jules looked great in her wedding gown.

There was a large wedding party- the more to party with! We had a blast and then they were off to Mexico on their honeymoon.

Welcome to the family Seth! I needed a new 'in-law' to hang with. :)

Great Urban Race Madison 2010

2010-06-26T16:16:00.001-07:00

I talked Jeff in to competing with me in the 2010 race. There were a lot of walking, running, heat, sweating, adventure, scavenger hunt elements to it. It was an interesting race and we did pretty well. We were unable to secure any public transportation to help us along the way, so it was about 12.5 miles worth of foot travel for us to conquer today (I used the new website I found www.mapmywalk.com to help calculate the miles I go). The costumes were pretty good too. We opted for "Nytesformayor.com" t-shirts, since that is what we had that was matching. We had a few people ask us about them. Jeff's favorite costumes were a pair that dressed up as "Madison Gladiators". The Wizard of Oz set was one of my favs.

***We had to find a person in an uniform to do a double 'high five' with and make sure to get a photo of it. She ended up being the only uniformed investigator in Madison that day. She was great with the double high five, by the way.

***We had to photo ourselves in front of a road sign with a double letter in the name (based on a riddle we were given as a clue).

***We had to find and meet a stranger to us that had 2 or more tattoos. She was walking down the street and was very friendly. Vern- this may be a good client for you. And yes, she didn't mind that I fondled her a bit.

***We had to honk the horn of a stranger's car as well. I hope this person was not angry with me touching their car as they were shopping/eating somewhere near by. We figured a convertible was easy access for our task. Thank you to whomever parked their car in our way that day.

***I got a tattoo for donating a pet food item to the local Humane Society.

Race for the Cure

2010-06-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

I decided to put some of my energy toward a good cause this time. The Madison Race for the Cure was just that. It was 5 days after the Marathon race, so I gave myself a goal of 28.5 minutes for the 3 mile race. Well, if I wouldn't have gotten sick at around mile 1 on the side of the road, I would have made my goal probably. I did finish in 32.5 minutes overall though. The last 2 miles were not very fun and I was VERY excited to see that finish line. I did a bad thing and ate food before the race. (I still remember hearing a little boy passing me on the side of the road cheering me on- HOW EMBARRASSING)

I think I am hooked on races. This one was very inspiring and I was almost in tears watching the thousands of people there to run and walk in support of those who have died from breast cancer and those who have survived it.

2010 Madison Marathon

2010-05-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes... I'm am truly insane now. I was talking to some co-workers after our Crazy Legs race about the Madison Marathon coming to town on Memorial Day weekend. We usually stay in town for the infamous Brat Fest, so I figured I would be game for some more bodily punishment. My co-worker Nicole decided to run the 1/4 marathon (6.55 miles). My other co-worker Brian decided to ditch the event at the last minute due to a knee injury (knee or ego injury? the jury is still out on that one)- so that left me with a BIG decision. Do I go for it with a half marathon challenge for myself or do the quarter run? I walk my dogs every day, so I figured I could conquer the half marathon walk. But the challenge didn't stop there for me. I decided to do a little homework on the half marathon walk option. Most places I turned to said that I could probably do that walk in about 3.5-4 hours. I put down a goal of less than 3 hours for myself. I made my goal!!! It was a truly HOT walk today! 90 degrees and the race finally got shut down after 4 hours due to the heat conditions and participants were encouraged to quit. I was 1st in my age group and 23rd overall at a time of 2:59.57.3. Some of the spectators were great on the sidelines. They had hoses and sprinklers out to keep us cool as we whizzed by them. 13.1 miles on foot is a long way to go and I'm so glad I did it. Maybe I'll work towards a full marathon sometime. Baby steps at this point for me.

Good luck kisses from Reggie are always a great way to start any challenge...

Here I go off to the race (in my new wheels)

Coming up to the finish line. It is 90 degrees now and I'm excited to see the finish line at the Capitol Square.

A high five from Logan is just what I needed to finish my goal. He is a rockstar for cheering me on. And thanks to Jeff for taking the photos for me.

Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner

2010-04-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

My Review:
It was an OK book. It had a few funny parts to it and a few emotional ones. I haven't read a book in a while and figured I would dive into an easy read. It definitely served it's purpose. Definitely a chick lit book. NO BOYS ALLOWED! It would be a good read for a new mom or a mom-to-be, just so she knows that her feelings are not crazy and she is not alone in the process. Child rearing can be very trying at times and it is somehow nice to know that you are not crazy with your thoughts.

Professional Review:
A Hollywood actress, an organized event planner, a chef, and a television reporter all have one thing in common: motherhood. Each woman is affected by this dramatic and life changing event in very different yet equally compelling ways in Jennifer Weiner's third novel, LITTLE EARTHQUAKES. To refer to Weiner's work as Chick Lit is similar to calling Todd English a fast food restaurant owner. What both of these talented individuals have in common is the ability to create wonderful pieces of work that are sometimes taken for granted because they reach such a wide audience and make it look effortless.

Weiner's first book, GOOD IN BED, received rave reviews and is now being developed into a series for HBO. It was immediately followed by IN HER SHOES, which has already been turned into a major motion picture starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine. How does Weiner create such wonderful fiction time and again? She pulls her readers into the world she has created and allows them to experience this world for themselves. She gives her characters difficult struggles and flaws. Weiner writes so vividly and creates such real human emotion through her words that she makes her readers truly care about the lives of her characters.

LITTLE EARTHQUAKES introduces us to four women who meet at a yoga class for expectant mothers. Becky is a chef who has an extremely loving relationship with her husband and an interfering mother-in-law who insists on trying to change everything about her. Kelly is an overachieving event planner who had a poor childhood and has since become intent on giving her own child a better life. Unfortunately, her newly unemployed husband isn't living up to her ideals. Ayinde, a beautiful television reporter who is married to a professional athlete, has her life turned upside down because of her husband's act of indiscretion. Finally there is Lia, a somewhat mysterious character who hides a heartbreaking secret involving her own brief experience of motherhood while bonding with the new mothers. Each of these women must struggle with the challenges of being new moms while at the same time balancing all of the other areas in their lives. They realize that becoming a new mother changes one's sense of self and one's relationships with others.

What is so wonderful about Weiner's work is that she gives her characters undying hope, no matter how unfortunate their circumstances may be. Through her characters' faith and persistence she creates happy endings that often can be difficult to find in fiction today.

In LITTLE EARTHQUAKES, Weiner explores the power of love and self-acceptance in overcoming life's obstacles. Her characters confront harshness and unhappiness with humor and self-confidence. They experience success without changing the essence of who they are and without subjugating their beliefs. Weiner has written a touching novel with wonderful characters and honest lessons about living a less than perfect life. Once again she has outdone herself and invites her readers to enter a world they may not have experienced otherwise. LITTLE EARTHQUAKES explores motherhood, friendship, marriage, loss, devastation, forgiveness and love. This is women's fiction at its best.

2010 Crazy Legs Classic

2010-04-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

We decided to do a team building activity at work. What about bowling? The batting cages and a little mini golf action? I think a baseball game or something like that would be fun...

So...

We decided on a race to the finish line. What were we thinking? I haven't ran a step in 20+ years. OK, not that long... But still people! I got a couple of sample runs in before the big race and actually was pretty proud of my final finish time of 52.43. That's about 5 miles of pure fun in 52+ minutes. I walked Observatory Hill and decided to stop another time to shed my rain coat (as it looked like rain before the race and never started until after the race). By the way, the rain felt great after 5 miles of running fun. I was beat by the youngsters from work, but put up a great fight, nonetheless. I am pretty excited to say that the run wasn't as bad as I though it would be. Running for me is pretty boring and no amount of IPod action can help with it. Running with others isn't fun either. It is hard to keep up a decent conversation when you are breathing so hard.

Welcome Reginald Starfox Haim Nytes

2010-03-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

He is a wonderful addition to the family. I am slowly getting used to the sleepless nights with a new puppy again. Reggie is an Australian Shepherd/Poodle mix and is super soft, non-shedding, herding pup. (He doesn't let me get close to the road) He loves to play fetch already and loves to jump and run. Still getting used to a harness and the leash though.

Reggie's unique color is Red Merle. Looks like marble.

He will be about 20-25 pounds full grown. With the 2 different breeds, the puppies vary in color and size. There were 3 pups in his litter and he was the biggest and he LOVES to eat!

He's a momma's boy, but that's because I feed him and snuggle the most.

This is Reggie's dad, Macho. He is a black miniature poodle.

This is Reggie's mom, a miniature Blue Merle Australian Shepherd.

The Art of Racing in the rain by Garth Stein

2010-02-02T18:57:00.000-08:00

Go Enzo! Go Enzo! Go, Go Enzo!
I give it 5 bookmarks. Read it today!

RIP Larry Wu Lee

2010-01-22T18:17:00.000-08:00

I'm so very sad to have lost Larry Wu Lee (6.26.09-1.16.10) in our lives. He was born with a very serious case of hip dysplasia that made him unable to walk at times and he was always going to be in terrible pain for his entire life. I noticed something was a little different and slower with him compared to Bruce when we would go on walks. He limped a little and was a little more cautious around steps and didn't jump up too much on things. We all thought that he inherited 'the lazy gene'. Not the case. He was born with hardly a hip joint on one side and a little bit more of a hip joint on the other side. With every step, his femurs would come out of joint and put strain on his muscles and ligaments. It progressively got worse as he aged and gained more weight. Our family vet knew instantly by hand manipulation that he had a serious issue. She followed up with x-rays to show us what it looked like. Boy, it was bad. One of the worse cases she's seen, and even my untrained eyes saw he was in immense pain and discomfort. She said that he would have to been seen by an orthopedic surgeon and hopefully he would be a candidate for a very extensive surgery to repair/build a hip joint (on one side only). Which would leave him lame on the other side- with a lifetime of pain/suffering. During his earlier neuter surgery, they found out that he also had a heart murmur and accelerated heart rate- which may cause him to die on the surgery table this time around. It was absolutely terrible circumstances and she felt so bad giving us the news, less than 6 months after we lost our beloved Chuey. With Chuey's passing, we were able to celebrate his 9 years of life, and his passing was quick and somewhat understandable for me. I kind of understand ailments for pets at 9 1/2 years old. But 6 1/2 months! Our vet made me promise to call our breeder to tell them to NEVER breed those 2 parents again. I called and he was responsive to the call. It won't bring my Larry back though. He was so kind and sweet mannered. Just a all around great dog. I know in my heart we did the best thing we could for him, but it does not make the decision any easier for me. I had to put him and his feelings before mine and make one of the toughest decisions in my life.

Everyone Worth Knowing by Lauren Weisberger

2010-01-10T18:52:00.000-08:00

This is definitely a chick lit book and a breeze to flip through. A fun story line and a creative twist ending that put it all together. A little excitement, a little drama... What more can a girl ask for?
I give it 3 bookmarks.

Lucky by Alice Sebold

2010-01-04T18:45:00.000-08:00

What a book! I don't know how to start the conversation on this one. What a downer from the start? What a fight to the finish line? That girl has some balls! Go get him! What a cocky jerk that puke was!
That is what was running through my mind with this one. It is a memoir that starts with a young virgin woman who is brutally raped by a man. I don't think 'man' is the correct word. I meant to say 'monster'. What that guy did to her was horrible and outrageous and completely beyond belief. She came back with a cape and smashed him in court. Good for you Alice! That is a battle that many women out there are scared to do and you did it for them. And to turn around and have her roommate get raped on her bed shortly thereafter. What! Where is the humanity in this world?
This book got 4.5 bookmarks from me.

C'est La Vie: An American Woman Begins a New Life in Paris and--Voila!--Becomes Almost French by Suzy Gershman

2009-12-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

OK, so I have been reading a lot lately. It is what I do when it is cold and dreary outside. I hibernate and read. This book was pretty good. I liked the story line and the writing was pretty fluid. I love anything french (french fries, french toast, french kissing...) Of the subject- sorry! The gal in the book loses her husband unexpectedly and decides to do her lifelong dream and travel to France and live with the french. How great would that be. It is one of the places I have longed to travel to as well. Someday I'll get my Christmas in Paris. I give it 3.5 bookmarks.

Book Review: Remember Me? by Sophie Kinsella

2009-12-27T11:51:00.000-08:00

I wasn't too impressed by the book. I have read some other books by Kinsella in the past and the Shopaholic series was much better. Maybe the premise of this book scared me a little. This girl wakes up in the hospital to find that 3 years of her life have been taken from her by a bad case of amnesia. She was now married, having an affair with a guy that her new husband works with, her long time friends hate her, and she finds that she is very successful in her career. At first she is pretty impressed by the handsome husband and her great digs, but finds that there is loneliness and heartache behind the perfect facade. The ending was a little soft and should have tied up the story line a little better. I don't know what I would do if I woke up in the hospital to find that 3 years of my life was gone. The loss of control on my memories would probably drive me crazy. She was a little gullible in trusting the wrong people in her life for the needed answers. I probably would do the same thing. That's a little scary...

Book Review: One Fifth Avenue by Candace Bushnell

2009-12-24T12:07:00.000-08:00

Candace Bushnell is the author of the popular Sex in the City book. I haven't read that book or watched the TV series. Maybe sometime soon...
The book was a little dense and had a few gaps in the story line. There were quite a few character lines that crossed and needed to come together a little better. The premise of the book was a popular apartment building in New York and the story of the occupants. She tied the past and present together pretty well and the characters seemed to be lifelike. Nothing too extreme. It was almost as if I could pick a person in real life that was one of the characters in the book. The mix of characters was pretty good too. The different ages, occupations, economic statuses seemed to flow pretty well. You find yourself liking some of them and want to hang out, but there are always some others that are drab and/or you hate them with a vengeance. The head of the board was a little weird. She was married to her husband for 20 years and didn't want anything to do with the poor guy. Why be married? And she was OK with him being with another woman who would blog about their escapades? I wonder if she would have left him if he hadn't wrote that hit book. The little mystery with the necklace was a nice addition. I kind of felt bad for Billy. He had good intentions, but the luck of money was not his. I wonder what happened to his mom.

I made some snuggly beds for the boys

2009-12-11T16:58:00.000-08:00

With the snow piling up outside, there's little to do outside for the little guys...

So, I had some leftover fabric in my craft area and the boys love to lie around on these beds. I can hear them snoring just thinking about it.

...next to our new fireplace. Boy, I can't believe we waited so long to get a nice fireplace for our home. It is really nice and cozy. A glass of wine anyone?

Welcome to Winter

2009-12-10T07:09:00.000-08:00

This is one of the 6 times we were out shoveling snow. Got to love the Snowplow Guy! He sure knows how to "throw" a party! (Yes, the snow is up to my thighs here) We got about a foot and a half. It's sometimes hard to measure because the wind likes to make it drift in areas.

Tonka got a new hairdo. Kind of looks like an Afro.

This is the snow coming down (6am) on Wednesday morning. It was a cool thunder snowstorm with lightning. Very cool to watch and listen to. I don't think I have experienced anything like it before. The sky was an eerie quiet light prior to the storm. Almost daylight when the storm came over. The thunder was pretty loud too. I guess it had cyclone-like properties and was a storm of historic proportions.

Little Echo got dumped on. She is frozen to the ground right now (Thursday). Jeff picked a great week to be in Vegas for 'work'. I wish we had a snow blower. This storm had very heavy snow and it was a full body workout in the driveway for Logan and I. The doggies liked the snow. Larry was having a hard time walking in it as the snow was deeper than his height.

Doggie's First Snow

2009-12-06T10:06:00.001-08:00

The guys had a great time running and playing in the snow. They love the new fence we had installed and love to bark at the neighbors (we may need to work on their neighborly behavior a bit).

A little Halloween Fun

2009-11-04T08:34:00.000-08:00

We went to a friend's Halloween party and dressed up (the first time in years). It was a lot of fun. Cassie (a friend of ours) decided to go out with us. I was a geisha and the dogs were a little skeptical about me with face paint on. Jeff was Che Guevara and Cassie was a belly dancer. I thought we all had some pretty good costumes. I had on the tradition wooden Geisha shoes. They were a little interesting to walk in at first, but became pretty comfy.

Welcome Larry Wu Lee

2009-11-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

We adopted a new puppy. He is a standard shar pei with a bear coat. I love that he looks like a little lion with his great looking mane.

RIP Sir Charles Barkley (AKA Chuey)

2009-09-29T18:48:00.001-07:00

I miss you buddy and our long walks together! You were the best dog ever and a true believer of living life to the fullest.

4/20/00 to 9/22/09

Practice with Transfers

2009-09-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

So, I was at Joann's this weekend having a bit of fun in their t-shirt aisle and came up with some shirts and transfers to try. I made a couple for myself and the little one is for a friend's baby. They were surprisingly easy!

Cupcake Fun

2009-09-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

I love pink! And these chocolate delights are pretty tasty treats. Logan had to do the honors with the "quality review process" (3 cupcakes later, he gave his final approval).

Cancun 2009

2009-08-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the nice weather. The hotel is located right on the water. The weather was a beautiful 95 degrees. Our first day there, we got upgraded to VIP status and enjoyed some nice perks.

At the hotel, one of the bars is a swim up bar. Arm floaties are a must in case you fall off the stool. I would recommend everyone to try a Miami Vice. I had quite a few while I was there.

We went on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres. It was a great day to venture across to the island and do a little shopping in the small fishing island. The fish at lunchtime was awesome!

Snorkeling anyone? On the way to the island, we took in some coral reef action. I saw a small sting ray and some schools of fish. It is cool to see all the bright colored fish in the salt water.

This is a view from our room. Unfortunately, we didn't stay in the room too much. There is so much stuff to do during the day and night there.

Welcome the Green Monstah...

2009-08-01T07:40:00.000-07:00

Jeff has decided to rid of the scooter and upgrade to bigger and better things. He has been having fun riding the Green Monstah around town. Anyone want to go on a ride with him?

My New Chair

2009-07-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

I inherited a new chair from a friend a while back. I loved the design, but it needed serious help on the fabric end of things. Time to reupholster for the first time...

I picked up this great fabric from Joann's (it was clearance of their clearance- so AKA cheap) After a little blood, sweat, and tears from Logan and I.... We ended up with a great new addition to our home. The new padding and fabric turned out great.

Welcome Master Bruce Flea

2009-06-06T08:22:00.001-07:00

He is the best thing since sliced bread...

Ok, so I don't eat bread... He is the best thing since steamed veggies for me. I hope you all enjoy him as much as I do... He gives the sweetest kisses and loves to snuggle.

Happy Birthday Gary!

2009-05-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

Garu turned 60 this weekend. Wow, retirement is now right around the corner for you! Take care and enjoy those sixties. Do you need help looking for a nice warm place to buy for your retirement? Now is the time to buy... :)

Speedy...

2009-05-06T19:43:00.000-07:00

Just call me Speedy. I got a speeding ticket today on my way to a closing for work. Actually flying low to a closing. Never get a ticket in a construction zone - it doesn't matter if the guys are working or not, the fine is still the same. I get into a lot of accidents, but most are not my fault and it's been many years since I have gotten a ticket.

Do you think my boss should foot the bill for this one?

HAIR

2009-05-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

We went to the University Theatre last night to see Hair. It was great. We had front row seats and the players were inches from us. The music was great. Logan's guitar instructor was in the band and they were awesome. I bet the soundtrack is pretty good for this one. The players in the production are mostly college students from the Fine Arts department. I'm not usually too keen on musicals, but this one is great to see and the premise is right on track for me. Peace and Love.
1,2,3,4...we don't want your stinking war...

STOMP

2009-04-21T04:40:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we all went to see the STOMP show at the Overture. I think it's our last show for the season there. What a great show. I wasn't sure what to expect when we went, and it was great. Jeff and Logan seemed to like it also. It's hard to find a show that the whole family will enjoy, but this one does it. There were quite a few people there with their families. It's interesting to see the performers use every day items and make music and beats with them. Go see it if you get a chance.

It feels like spring

2009-04-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

Finally!

I have been waiting pretty impatiently for some nice weather. I have been out with Chuey the last few days too. He loves to go on walks around the neighborhood. He would prefer to roam on his own, but such as life...

Happy Spring everyone!

Bahstun Trip 2009

2009-04-12T15:47:00.001-07:00

Logan had the week off of school for spring break, so we decided to go to Boston to see how America started and learn some history. On the trip, we headed down the Freedom Trail and saw some great historic sites, the Old State House, Paul Revere's House, the Constitution, Bunker Hill, Boston Massacre site, and some others. It was a great day and we had a lot of fun learning about the Boston Tea Party, etc. We stopped at Salty Dog Oyster Bar at Quincy Market and we all tried raw oysters on the half shell there. It was not my favorite experience and was a little salty and chewy for my tastes. The hot sauce helped a little.
We went to the Boston Museum of Science and that was pretty entertaining for all of us. They had a lot to see and I saw a chick hatch for the first time. It was pretty cool.
The Boston Aquarium doesn't compare to the Shed in Chicago, but I love that they had lots of penguins there. They are one of my favorites to see. The sharks swimming around their huge aquarium were pretty freaky. I didn't realize that jellyfish are so resilient and will probably be the last standing in our waters. The best part of the Aquarium day was the IMax theatre where we caught a 3D "Under the Sea" show.
One other day, we went to the Sam Adams Brewery and drank some nice fresh beer. They have a beer on tap that they only serve there that was pretty tasty. They only brew at the Boston Brewery for Boston. They have 2 other breweries that brew for the rest of the US.
We were able to score some Boston Red Sox tickets for a game against the Tampa Bay Rays. It was a little chilly that night, so we got some warm clothes to wear (Sox gear, of course). They serve clam chowder and hot chocolate at their games! I love it. They didn't win the game, but we had a blast anyway. They fans are a lot of fun and really love their hometown team. It was pretty cool to say that we had an opportunity to go to Fenway for a game.
One of my favorite parts of the trip was the trip to the Museum of Fine Arts. I was inches away from Renoir, Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet, DaVinci, etc. It was awesome! That was just a part of the museum. We were there for hours looking around and drooling over the great works of art. They had a neat Meditation room there.
Some of the most beautiful view we saw came from the Prudential building tour. You go to the 50th floor and they have 360 degree views from up there. It was a little cloudy that day, but we were able to get a bird's eye view of some of the sites we had already visited and were going to visit.
One sunny day, we ventured to Harvard and walked around the school grounds and went to the Museum of Natural History. I'm not too into stuffed creatures, but they had a cool exhibit of flora species that was completely made of glass. It was pretty amazing the work that this guy and his son had gone through to making the glass look so real.
We went into China town for a few hours one day and tried our first taste of Bubble Tea. It is something that I didn't expect. It was very weird at first, but now that I haven't had it for a couple of days, I think I may miss it. It is something to try, for sure. It's very unique, to say the least. We went to a BBQ place there and had the most interesting meal. We went into the place, because it was a traditional Chinese eatery with the ducks and chickens hanging in the window. I ordered a half chicken and the guy took one down and placed it sideways on the butcher block in front of him. He grabbed his (very sharp) butcher knife and cut the 1/2 chicken into 1 1/2 inches sub sections (across the bone and all). They serve this cold. With each bite, I was picking out bone and skin. It wasn't actually bad tasting. Jeff ordered a pork and rice meal and his looked pretty good. I can say now that I have eaten like a local. (I did leave the chicken leg and foot on my plate). I was not going that "local" this trip. Maybe next time. We stopped at a pastry place and Logan got this very delicious coconut bar and Jeff and I got almond cookies. I don't eat many sweets now, but that cookie was heavenly!
We stopped at MIT to take a few photos of the great contemporary architecture that they have there. It was a great day to nap on their pavilion stairs.
Being the politician, Jeff and I decided to hit the JFK museum to get a little history lesson. Did you know that he started the US space program and the Peace Corp? He also started the humane treatment of mentally handicapped persons and spoke at the Berlin Wall (a part of the wall is at the museum on display).
One of the best meals (rich meals) that we experienced was lobster dinner at the Legal Sea Foods. I had the traditional lobster boil, Jeff had Lobster dinner with 2 sides, and Logan had the deep fried shrimp dinner with 2 sides. My dinner came in a steam pack with corn on the cob, mussels, clams, lobster, chorizo, and clam chowder. We had the best Boston Cream Pie for dessert. It was a great feast to end our trip in Boston. We found out that the Boston Cream Pie is more of a layered cake. A tasty layer cake.
Dunkin' Donuts on every corner there and we all became addicted to the DD. Or, as I now call it, the Double D.
I love the T. We went everywhere on the T. We need one in Madison. The subway system was great and reliable. Do not rent a car when you go to Boston. It would be a nightmare with the one way street and parking issues. The T can get you anywhere you need to go. And bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes. We definitely used ours.
All in all, we had a very adventurous trip and didn't do much relaxing. Maybe next time...
**did anyone notice that Logan is now TALLER than me?

Jeff's new toy...

2009-04-02T16:32:00.000-07:00

I drove his old car to work one day and took out the transmission on it. Oops! So, he's sporting a new ride...

** he is so tall that few cars fit him, and I thought a convertible would be a little chilly for our winters here.

*** We call our new addition, "Tonka" Nytes.

Cirque Eloize

2009-03-19T04:55:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we went to the Overture Center to see the Cirque Eloize show "Nebbia". It was a great show filled with comedy, drama, and lots of theatrical performances by the cast. Here's word from the director of the show (Nebbia means fog):

The fog that would float down when we visited my grandparents would swallow up the entire house. The neighborhood disappeared, followed by the entire village. Standing on the living room balcony, I would spy on the void and when the sky was very low, I would see strange things. The waves of the sea came to lick at the garden gate and hallucinations paraded along the row of poplar trees. I'd watch as lovers chased after one another. I'd see camels, elephants, soldiers returning from war… Once, I even saw myself float by. I was all grown up, driving a red car. It was often, or should I say always, a carnival...

The sound of the sea was omnipresent. And when the fog lifted, mullet and bass would be lying on the road. Once, we even found a fishing boat in the village square. An entire fishing boat. Yet the ocean was 300 kilometers from the grandparents' house.

There are other types of fog; fog that slips down over our eyes, drawing a thin veil between us and those who are already a little bit elsewhere. For some time, a fog has floated between my grandmother and me. I look a little blurred to her. Sometimes I'm my grandfather as a younger man or, in the flash of a second, just some stranger, some shadow. My grandmother has gone to the other side of the sky, which is very low. Occasionally, we see her, as the little girl I never knew, the young woman who turned grandfather's head, the old olive tree planted in the garden by an ancestor…

From my very early age, I've been fascinated by acrobatics. Fascinated by the movement that defies the laws of gravity, that combines strength and lightness, precision, synchronicity, confidence, surprise and risk. I like what goes unexpressed in theater, the veiled, the gesture that remains invisible.

When the sky is very low, we see things we don't normally see. We travel in a world of memories, invented images, what we call dreams for the sake of convenience. To tell my tale of a childhood that is re-invented each time, I use geometries and the lucidity of acrobatic theatre danced on stage by an extraordinary group of performers.

Daniele Finzi Pasca
Author & Director

A scary doctor's visit...

2009-03-14T17:43:00.000-07:00

OK, have I told you that I don't especially care for doctors? Let's add another experience to the list from Friday. I woke up Sunday morning with a very sore, puffy, swollen right eye. I thought that Jeff had one up on me and elbowed me during sleep or I punched myself even. I had a very sore area amongst the swollenness. By Tuesday, my eye was opening OK, but with extreme pain and was pretty blurry and dry. I was having this heavy pressure headache at the back of my head, near the base of my neck too. Jeff and Logan were bugging me about going into the doctor to get it looked at. Eye drops and Advil were not cutting it. I had a doctor at one of my closings, and he said, "That's a nasty insect bite you have there." By Friday, I couldn't handle it anymore. I went into the clinic and got "Dr. No-Bedside Manner." He was a no holds barred kind of doc that said I was lucky to have my vision and that it was a poisonous bite probably from a brown recluse spider (nothing like keeping positive here). My eyeball had a film over the top of it from the bite and was not even dilating. There was that very sore area still that was opening up and actually was being dissolved by the spider poison (he figured this is where I was bit). I guess the poison stays for a month or so in your system and this bite can cause scarring. Talk about one of the weirdest things that has happened to me. They took 2 slides of ooze from the area to test it. They gave me a steroid injection and another serum shot of some sort and sent me on my way. It immediately started to feel better too. I guess I won't be heading the "Say No to Steroids" campaign anytime soon. And yes, I do talk like Arnold S. now.

'I'll be back'...

I was trying to joke around about this with the doc and he was not having any of my humor. I was asking him, "Will this get me out of work for a couple of days?", "Will I have x-ray vision in the one eye now?", "Are the steroids going to make me stronger and give me super human strength?", and "Do I look like Rhianna now?" At least the nurse chuckled a couple of times.

My dedication for the day...

2009-03-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

My thoughts and prayers are with a friend out there named Lora Conwell.

Lora Conwell was recently diagnosed with colon cancer, for which she is currently undergoing treatment. We are raising money to try and help ease the financial burden.

Please pass this along to others you know who would like to help with donations.
**If you would like to donate please contact me or Nathan O’Brien at nateobrien@hotmail.com

***Even the smallest of donations make a difference. Make a difference in someone else's life and think about donating today.

2009-03-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

Here's a little funny in a 'not so funny' financial market. I work in real estate and it's pretty doom and gloom right now. I am looking forward to getting some financial help out there. Anyone have $50 I can borrow? :)

Division Champs

2009-02-25T04:58:00.000-08:00

Logan's team won their division 13-1 and now go into the tournament on March 6-8. They have a couple of non-competitive games this weekend to keep themselves warm, plus also play a scrimmage against the other Madison West team tomorrow night for more practice. I'm not sure what we'll do when the season ends. There is no talk of another sport to follow basketball now. if anyone wants to come down for the tourney, let us know. It will be fun.

A day of gift certificates...

2009-02-19T07:23:00.000-08:00

We had a big stack of gift certificates sitting in the office, so we decided to do a little shopping with them. First we hit Best Buy for a few CDs and a new cord for Logan's guitar. Then, off to Barnes and Noble for a new deluxe Scrabble game set (we are a family who scrabbles together- and Logan won the first game on the new board too). We had this gift certificate for a comic book store by my work, we stopped in there and the guys picked up three new reads. One that Jeff licked up is The Watchmen. I guess it's a great read and he seems to like the comic book spin on it. The last gift certificate for the day was for lunch at Olive Garden (courtesy of Jenny and Vickii). We pigged out on pasta, pizza, bread sticks, and salad/soup. We rolled out of there and back home. All in all, I think we only spent a few bucks of our own. Thanks everybody for the great day.

Logan is 11-1 now in basketball

2009-02-18T07:50:00.000-08:00

They have 4 more games to go. Then off to the tournament weekend. They are doing great out there and have improved some much as a team throughout their season. I am so proud of them all. The boys seem to love Jeff as a coach and love to give him a hard time. Last Sunday's game was a knuckle biter and they barely won 40-38. They still have to play the other lead team before the tournament and that should be a great game. Stressful, yet great! I have to remind myself not to drink coffee before the games. (I don't want to scare the parents or the kids with my sideline craziness.)

Peking Acrobats

2009-02-17T07:34:00.000-08:00

All I can say is "WOW". This was a great show. They were in Madison for one show and I'm glad that we went to see it. I absolutely love anything Asian inspired and loved this show. The colors were so vibrant. The acrobats were amazing and I cannot wrap my head around the abilities of the contortionists. The girls could bend themselves in half (forwards and backwards). Wild gymnasts moves by the guys too. They did this great rope act that was unbelievable. The guys were hopping around on these ropes like they were monkeys or something. Dangling by one arm or leg. To end it all, we saw a girl riding an unicycle on top of an umbrella that a guy was holding over his head. Jeff especially loved the dancing Foo Dogs at the beginning of the show. He said that he was hooked after that.

Slumdog Millionaire

2009-02-01T18:13:00.000-08:00

2 thumbs up from me. If you haven't heard about this movie yet, go see it! There was a guy that passed Jeff and I as we were going into the theatre today saying "You'll love that movie. It's a great one." He was right on the money... GO SEE IT!

You don't need to know what it's about before you see it to appreciate it. Be pleasantly surprised.

The Black Dahlia

2009-02-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

I would give this book 4.5 stars (out of 5). It was well written and I would recommend this book to all readers. The story line is a little twisted and not normally something I would pick up to read. I'm glad I dove in and made myself read it. I haven't seen the movie yet and have it on my queue of those to watch now.

7-1 now...

2009-02-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

For those of you keeping track, Logan's team is now 7 and 1. They had a pretty interesting weekend of ball play. Friday night's game, our team only scored 9 points in the first half, then came out the second half to score 31 more. They won pretty easily once they started playing the game. The game Saturday morning was against a team that they had previous lost to (their only loss so far). The game was very neck-in-neck and very stressful as a mom in the stands. We were a very loud cheering section and the guys pulled off a win of 29-28. Both teams had a great defense going and they didn't let each other score very much. The other team was very sad that they lost, but now the teams are equal in their records. We do play them again- on our home court too. I'm excited to see how that one goes. (there are 16 games in the season, so we're halfway there...)

Bus Stop

2009-02-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

Jeff threw his back out showing off for his basketball team the other day (you're not as young and agile as you used to be Jeff!), so Logan and I went out on a date last night to the Madison Rep play, "Bus Stop". We went to Takara for sushi first (gorged ourselves on delicious rolls), then off to the show. The show was great and pretty funny. We both fell in love with Virgil in the show. We had a blast and poor Jeff was laid up on the couch getting plenty of rest.

5-1 so far

2009-01-25T13:32:00.000-08:00

Logan is at it again. He is playing basketball now and their team is doing very well! They have 5 wins under their belt and the guys are working great with each other now. They are a new team to each other and it took a little while for them to work together, but they are doing great now. They have 16 games in the regular season and then it's off to the playoffs if they place well enough. Currently, they are in first place with their wins. Each time they win, I make cookies for the team. I have been baking a lot lately. Speaking of which, I should go now- got a batch of them in the oven right now that need to come out.(yum!)

My new addiction

2009-01-25T13:27:00.000-08:00

Working out! Who would have thought it would be true! I actually like to go to the gym and work up a sweat. Logan usually takes a bunch of sports activities through the local YMCA, so I decided to get us a family membership so I could go and work out now too. It's been pretty good so far and I feel great afterwards. With the weather being so crappy out, it's kind of nice to have a place to go too to work out without having to worry about the elements. It's also nice to have the energy surrounding you when you work out too. We have a recumbent bike at home, but it's hard to motivate yourself sometimes when there is complete quiet and no one around to pump you up. When you go to a gym, there are people all around who are working out too and the energy helps make the pain of working out better. I have taken a fondness to the elliptical machine and the stair step machine so far.

January Book Selection

2009-01-24T12:33:00.000-08:00

My January read was Heartburn. The book was an OK read. Went pretty quick for me and it was a little enjoyable. I didn't feel like I connected with the character too much and I think that the author could have done a little bit more with the story line and character structure. If you are looking for an afternoon read in the sun, here's your book. If you are looking for a book to change your life, look elsewhere. I give it 2.5 stars out of 5.

The Black Dahlia

2009-01-22T12:37:00.001-08:00

This book is a little out of my norm to read. It is set in the 40's and features a band of cops who are looking for a murderer of a tortured woman. The writing style is a little jumpy and the language of these cops to each other makes my skin crawl sometimes. I feel pretty offended sometimes when reading it and want to throw my book at them for being so ignorant. Then I have to remind myself that we live in a different time and place and this world has changed. It is a good book so far (half way through). Pick it sometime. I will try the movie after I finish the book to let you know which is better. Most times it's the book that's better. I just wonder how they are going to portray some of the characters in the movie. It's always interesting to see if they would pick the same people (actors) that you would have picked.

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

Do people really sit down and come up with a plan for the year? Jeff and I were discussing our "New Year's Resolutions" for 2009 this morning. I started to laugh about it because it seems so silly. Have you watched TV this past 2-3 weeks? The commercials are for weight loss programs, stop smoking, fitness deals, etc. Why do people make decisions for their well being based on a day?! That is setting yourself up for pure destruction. Do it for yourself please and pick any day you want to start the process. Don't let society make your decisions in life and make sure you're making the decisions for yourself and when you want to make the changes needed. The changes will not stay with you if you are not on board for them. That's why people yo-yo around so much. I have people that tell me how great I look and all, but it doesn't matter to me really what others think. I FEEL great and the best I've felt in a long time. Not trying to be rude, only genuine here, and how you feel inside IS what matters most. I thought I was going to have a horrible time over the holidays with my sweet addictions and all, but it was smooth sailing for me. I have tried sweets a little since I've changed my eating habits and they make me feel sick to my stomach and give me headaches. Not worth the 2 minutes of sugary bliss anymore. I do love and still munch on chocolate covered espresso beans. I told my doc that he was insane if he thought I was going to give up those. He told me I needed a vice, but my vice needed to be in moderation. I agree.
I was talking my little sister over the holidays about my life change (I don't see myself on a diet- it is a life change) and how others perceive it as a diet and "how can we get on the diet?", "how much have you lost on that diet?", and "what diet are you on?". I was explaining to her that I had the scare of my life when I went into the doctor's office and he sat me down and said that I am very close to sticking needles in my arm for the rest of my life. It was very scary and I felt all alone as I sat there. A diet to me is a choice. I didn't feel as I had a choice and I still don't. He got a book out and started flipping through the pages of diabetics who have lost limbs and had complications from their disease. I was on the verge of that and HAD to make a change in my lifestyle. He said that I wouldn't realize how sick I was until I started to feel better, and the guy wasn't lying to me. It took about 2-3 days with my lifestyle change for the internal changes to hit. But, once it started, I felt (and still do) like a super star. People's perceptions about it are a little annoying to me still, but I think time will mend that hopefully. I was at a holiday party recently and there was an array of holiday treats on the table. WOW, I would have loved to have sampled those babies. But I told myself that the tray of fresh fruit and fresh veggies (which were hardly touched) is what I should grab instead. This guy I know comes across the room and blurts out so everyone hears, "So, trying to show us all up with that healthy eating!" He was a little rude and I didn't feel like having to justify myself in my food choices. I think someone else mentioned my disease to him eventually, because he came up (with his tail between his legs) and apologized to me privately. I hope he learned to get the facts before accusing people. His actions made me want to scurry from the room though and it happens quite a bit.
There once was a time that a friend of mine didn't drink and he was explaining the craziness that people get over trying to get you to drink with them. I completely understand now. Let's take that same party. I was walking around with nothing in my hand and was talking to different circles. I had 8 people ask me "why are you not drinking?" or "do you want me to grab you something?" I guess it's not socially acceptable to not drink. I finally had to grab a drink (water) to have them stop. But, when a girl isn't drinking at a social event- she is now then pregnant. You can never win.
I was also explaining to my sister about the weight loss that resulted in my new life style change. I was told from my doc that I should be a healthy weight between 118-132. I got down to 113.5 at one point and freaked out. Just so you all know, I do eat and I love food. I am not anorexic and don't binge or purge. I have had 5-6 people ask me that also. People must think they can ask personal questions like that or something. I don't think I could go up to someone I barely know and ask, "Are you anorexic now?" or "What is the secret? Vomiting?" (these are exactly what was asked of me)
I was asked by my doc if he could use my personal info (minus my name) in a log for other patients who have pre-diabetes/diabetes too. I told him "YES!" If it can help one person, it would mean the world to me.
I may even look at joining a group with others that have the disease. I think that may be helpful during tough times.
Enough ranting and raving for now...
** On a very positive note, I went for my bi-monthly doctor's poke and everything was spiffy with me. I got rave reviews on all my tests. That is good news after the holidays. I wasn't eating my normal vats of food and traveling makes for unhealthy eating sometimes.
So, to bend to society's norm, here is my informal list of New Year's resolutions:
1. Keeping up the good work on my health and well being (I love you too Jeff). He gave me the best card over the holidays that said he was proud of me. What a sweetie!
2. Bonding a bit more with my "not so little" guy.
3. Mending some family bridges. (you know who you are)
4. Taking the last 2 cake decorating classes I need to take to finish the series. Yes, I don't eat cake, but love making them fancy...
5. Enjoying my 2009 book club selections. E-mail me if you want the list.

My 2009 Book Club

2009-01-01T08:52:00.000-08:00

OK, Jan. 1 marks the start of my own informal book club (as I posted earlier). I am starting the year off with Heartburn by Nora Ephron, as the January read. I am in the middle of another book, Little Indiscretions by Carmen Posadas, right now and it's moving slow for me. I need to kick it up a notch so I can finish my Jan read by Jan 31st. With working so much lately, I'm sleeping by the time my head hits the pillow. I usually don't read murder mysteries and I'm trying to expand my reading horizons. It's hard to teach an old dog new tricks. (and I'm an old dog...)If anyone is interested to read Heartburn by Nora Ephron with me, let me know and we can rap about the book from time to time. I tried to pick books outside my normal genre to give myself a little variety.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

2008-12-30T10:39:00.000-08:00

Whew, I've been busy and haven't done much with my handy blog! Sorry, everyone. I have been a little busy with work. The interest rates have been great and that means a lot of people are scooping them up with refinances and home purchases. I will be gone for a bit, but promise to fill you in on some good stuff when I return.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

Here's a couple of recipes; one for the truffles and one for the cute little chocolate cups to hold them.

Ingredients you'll need:

Truffles:
8 ounces (227 grams) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, cut into small pieces
3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons alcohol (Cognac, brandy, Grand Marnier, kirsch, rum, bourbon, or Kahlua to name a few) (optional)

Different Coatings for Truffles:
Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder
Confectioners Sugar (Icing or Powdered)
Toasted and Chopped Nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts)
Toasted Coconut
Shaved Chocolate

For Chocolate Cups:
1 - 3 ounce (85 grams) bar of semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, cut into small pieces
1/2 teaspoon shortening (like Crisco)
2 - Empty Styrofoam Egg Cartons

For Truffles: Place the chopped chocolate in a medium sized stainless steel bowl. Set aside. Heat the cream and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Immediately pour the boiling cream over the chocolate and allow to stand for 5 minutes. Stir with a whisk until smooth. If desired, add the liqueur. Cover and place in the refrigerator until the truffle mixture is firm (this will take several hours or overnight).

Place your coatings for the truffles on a plate. Remove the truffle mixture from the refrigerator. With your hands, or else a melon baller or small spoon form the chocolate into round or mis-shaped bite-sized balls. Immediately roll the truffle in the coating and place on a parchment lined baking sheet or tray. Cover and place in the refrigerator until firm. Truffles can be refrigerated for a couple of weeks or else frozen for a couple of months. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Makes 30 small truffles.

To Toast Nuts: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and bake nuts (pecans, walnuts or almonds) about 8 - 10 minutes or until brown and fragrant. For hazelnuts toast about 15 minutes or until the skins start to blister. Remove from oven and roll in a clean dish towel. Let the nuts 'steam' for about 5 minutes and then remove the skins. Once the nuts have cooled, chop coarsely.

For Chocolate Cups: It is easier to make the chocolate cups if you first cut each egg carton into the 12 individual egg cups (as in picture). Altogether you will need 24 individual cups. Melt the chocolate and shortening in a heatproof bowl placed over a saucepan of simmering water. Dip the bottoms of the egg carton cups into the melted chocolate. Turn the cups upside down so the chocolate coating is facing up (like in the picture). Place the remainder of the melted chocolate into a parchment paper cone with a small opening. Pipe loops around each cup, piping down from the chocolate base and back up. Refrigerate the egg carton cups until the chocolate has completely set. Once the chocolate has set, gently remove the chocolate cups from the egg carton cups. Be careful as the chocolate cups can easily break. Place a truffle into each chocolate cup and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Makes about 2 dozen chocolate cups.

One day to go...

2008-12-24T09:15:00.000-08:00

Lemon Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

Ingredients:
Crust:
2 cups ground gingersnap cookies
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Filling:
5 8-ounce packages cream cheese, room temperature
2 cups sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
7 large eggs
3 cups (24 ounces) sour cream
2 tablespoons (packed) finely grated lemon peel
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Lemon leaves or twists (optional)

Preparation:
For crust:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir cookie crumbs and butter in medium bowl until evenly moistened. Press mixture onto bottom of 9-inch-diameter removable-bottom cheesecake pan with 3-inch-high sides. Bake crust until deep golden, about 12 minutes. Cool completely. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.

Stack 3 large sheets of foil on work surface. Place same cake pan in center. Gather foil snugly around pan bottom and up sides to waterproof.

For filling:
Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese in large bowl until smooth and fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar, then salt. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time. Beat in sour cream, grated lemon peel, and lemon juice. Pour filling into pan.

Place wrapped cake pan in large roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into roasting pan to come halfway up sides of cake pan. Bake cake until filling is slightly puffed and moves only slightly when pan is shaken gently, about 1 hour 25 minutes. Remove cake pan from water bath; remove foil. Cool cake in pan on rack 2 hours. Chill uncovered until cold; cover and keep chilled at least 1 day and up to 2 days.

Cut around pan sides; carefully loosen pan bottom from sides and push up pan bottom to release cake. Place cake (still on pan bottom) on platter. Garnish with lemon leaves or twists.

The pan: It must be three inches high to hold all the filling. If your nine-inch springform pan is that high, it can be used instead.
The cream cheese: For best results, use Philadelphia brand.
The crust: Grind the gingersnaps in the processor or place them in a heavy-duty plastic bag and finely crush them with a rolling pin.

Two Days to go...

2008-12-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

With two days to go before the holidays, try this little pick-me-up.

Tipsy Turtle Bark

Ingredients:
2 cups pecan halves
1 cup (about 24) caramel candies, such as Kraft, unwrapped
1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or whisky (see tip, below)
1 1/2 teaspoons heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pound high-quality semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread pecans on large shallow baking sheet and toast until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer to plate and let cool. Line baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.

In small bowl, combine caramels, liquor, cream, and salt. Microwave uncovered at medium power for 2 minutes. Stir with fork. Microwave at medium power for 1 additional minute. Stir until smooth and set aside.

In medium bowl set over saucepan of simmering water, melt half chocolate, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, add remaining chocolate, and stir until smooth. Pour half melted chocolate into small bowl and reserve.

Stir 1 cup nuts into remaining chocolate. Transfer mixture to baking sheet, spreading to 1/4- to 1/2-inch thickness. Spoon caramel over and pat on remaining pecans. Drizzle with reserved chocolate. Let cool at room temperature until set, about 2 hours. Do not chill.

Chop finished bark into irregular 1 1/2-inch chunks.

Store airtight at room temperature up to one month.

Secret Santa- Week #3

2008-12-22T13:30:00.000-08:00

For my final week of the office secret santa, I decided to treat my special someone with a decorative box that she could use for her recipes.

Three days to go...

2008-12-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

Dark Chocolate and Peppermint Whipped Cream Tart

Crust
1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, diced
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 1/2 teaspoons cold whole milk

Filling
1 1/4 cups whipping cream
1/4 cup light corn syrup
12 ounces bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon coarsely crushed red–and–white–striped hard peppermint candies

Topping
3 1/2 cups chilled whipping cream
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 3/4 teaspoons peppermint extract

PreparationFor crust:
Blend first 4 ingredients in processor. Add butter and vanilla; cut in using on/off turns until butter forms pea–size pieces. Add milk and blend in using on/off turns until mixture forms small moist clumps. Gather dough into ball; flatten into disk. Wrap dough in plastic; chill 1 hour.

Roll dough out between sheets of floured parchment to 12–inch round. Press dough onto bottom and up sides of 10–inch–diameter tart pan with removable bottom. Fold dough edges over and press to form thick sides. Using thumb, press dough around sides to extend crust 1/8 inch above edge of pan. Freeze 20 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake crust until brown, piercing bubbles with fork, about 30 minutes. Transfer to rack; cool.

For filling:
Bring cream and corn syrup to simmer in medium saucepan; remove from heat. Add all chocolate; whisk until smooth. Cool 30 minutes. Pour filling into crust. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup candy. Chill until set, about 3 hours. Do aheadCan be made 1 day ahead. Cover and keep refrigerated.

For topping:
Using electric mixer, beat all ingredients in large bowl to stiff peaks. Spread 2 cups whipped cream over filling, mounding slightly in center. Spoon remaining whipped cream into 1 bottom corner of large resealable plastic bag. Twist at top; grasp top firmly. Using scissors, cut 3/4 inch off filled corner to form opening; turn bag so that 1 seam faces up. Pipe 2–inch–long ovals of whipped cream side by side around edge of tart. Pipe more ovals to form second ring inside first, then pipe ovals in center. Chill at least 30 minutes and up to 3 hours. Remove tart from pan; place on platter. Sprinkle top of tart with remaining 1 tablespoon crushed peppermint candies and serve.

Four days to go...

2008-12-21T08:26:00.000-08:00

I had such a fun time with my cookie/bar recipes last week, that I figured I would post some good dessert options for your holiday feast.

Here's a recipe for Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie

Crust:
12 whole graham crackers (about 7 ounces)
1/4 cup sugar
7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Filling:
1 cup canned pure pumpkin
3/4 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 quarts premium vanilla ice cream

Bark, sauce, and topping:
Nonstick vegetable oil spray
6 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted, coarsely chopped
1 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
1/4 cup dark corn syrup
3 tablespoons water
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups chilled heavy whipping cream, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar

Preparation
For crust:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Finely grind graham crackers in processor. Mix in sugar. Add butter; mix to blend. Press onto bottom and up sides of 10-inch-diameter glass pie dish. Bake until light brown around edges, about 12 minutes. Cool completely.

For filling:
Whisk first 9 ingredients in medium bowl. Slightly soften ice cream in microwave in 10-second intervals. Measure 1 cup ice cream; cover and freeze (reserve for another use). Spoon remaining ice cream into large bowl. Working quickly, add pumpkin mixture and fold just until swirled into ice cream (do not blend completely). If ice cream begins to melt, freeze until almost firm. Spoon ice cream filling into cooled crust, cover with plastic, and freeze until firm, at least 6 hours. DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 days ahead. Keep frozen.

For bark, sauce, and topping:
Line baking sheet with parchment paper; spray with nonstick spray. Stir chocolate in bowl set over saucepan of simmering water until melted and smooth. Pour onto baking sheet. Using offset spatula, spread chocolate in even layer into 12x9-inch rectangle. Sprinkle with nuts. Place in freezer until hard, at least 30 minutes. Invert onto work surface. Peel off paper. Coarsely chop. Place DO AHEAD: Chocolate-almond bark can be made 2 days ahead. Keep frozen.

Bring brown sugar, corn syrup, 3 tablespoons water, and butter to boil in heavy medium saucepan, stirring until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to medium and boil until dark brown, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Carefully stir in 1/2 cup cream, vanilla, and salt (mixture will bubble vigorously). Boil 1 minute longer. Cool slightly. DO AHEAD: Sauce can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. Rewarm before serving.

Using electric mixer, beat 1 1/2 cups cream and 2 tablespoons sugar in medium bowl until peaks form. Spoon decoratively over pie. Sprinkle chocolate-almond bark over. Cut pie into wedges and serve, passing warm sauce alongside.

Gettin' Ready for the Holidays- Recipe #7

2008-12-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Peanut Toffee

Equipment needed: a 15- by 10- by 1-inch baking pan; a candy thermometer; a metal offset spatula

Ingredients:
4 sticks (1 pound) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
2 cups sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 cups whole cocktail peanuts plus 1 cup chopped (1 pound 10 ounces)
7 to 8 ounces 70%-cacao bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

Preparation:
Butter baking pan and put on a heatproof surface.

Bring butter, sugar, and salt to a boil in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot over medium-high heat, whisking until smooth, then boil, stirring occasionally, until mixture is deep golden and registers 300°F (hard-crack stage; see Kitchen Notebook, page 240) on thermometer, 15 to 20 minutes.

Immediately stir in whole peanuts, then carefully pour hot toffee into center of baking pan. Spread with spatula, smoothing top, and let stand 1 minute, then immediately sprinkle chocolate on top. Let stand until chocolate is melted, 4 to 5 minutes, then spread over toffee with cleaned spatula. Sprinkle evenly with chopped peanuts, then freeze until chocolate is firm, about 30 minutes. Break into pieces.

Gettin' Ready for the Holidays- Recipe #6

2008-12-19T08:09:00.000-08:00

Almond Bars

Ingredients:
1/2 cup packed canned almond paste* (about 5 oz; not marzipan), coarsely crumbled
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg, separated
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sliced almonds (about 1 1/2 oz)

Preparation:
Pulse almond paste in a food processor until broken up into small bits, then add salt and 1/4 cup sugar and continue to pulse until finely ground, about 1 minute.

Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9-inch square baking pan, then line with foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on 2 opposite sides, and butter foil.

Beat together butter and remaining 1/2 cup sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer at medium-high speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes in a stand mixer (preferably fitted with a paddle attachment) or 6 minutes with a handheld. Add almond mixture, egg yolk, and almond extract and beat until combined well, about 2 minutes. Reduce speed to low, then add flour and mix until combined. Spread batter evenly in pan with an offset spatula. Lightly beat egg white in a small bowl, then brush some of it over batter and sprinkle evenly with almonds.

Bake until top is golden, 35 to 40 minutes. Cool completely in pan on a rack, about 1 hour. Transfer with foil to a cutting board, then discard foil. Cut into squares or rounds.

Gettin' Ready for the Holidays- Recipe #5

2008-12-18T08:07:00.000-08:00

Vanilla Coconut Bars

Ingredients:
1 (18 1/2 ounce) package French vanilla cake mix (Pillsbury makes it)
1/3 cup butter
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups coconut
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions:
1. Heat oven to 350°.
2. Spray 13x9 baking pan.
3. Put cake mix in lg bowl.
4. Cut in butter until crumbly.
5. Add water, vanilla, and egg; mix well.
6. Stir in coconut.
7. Press dough into pan.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool for 15 minutes.
10. Melt chocolate and drizzle over cake.
11. Cool.

Gettin' Ready for the Holidays- Recipe #4

2008-12-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Dipped Krispies Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

Krispies:
1/2 cup butter or margarine
2 cups chunky peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
1 lb powdered sugar
3 cups Rice Krispies

Chocolate Dip:
2 ounces paraffin wax or shortening
1 (24 ounce) package chocolate chips (using 12 ounces for large balls or 24 ounces for small one)

Directions:
1. Melt butter and while hot, stir in peanut butter.
2. Mix well and add vanilla, powdered sugar and Rice Krispies.
3. Work in with hands until it will form balls.
4. Dip into melted chocolate and paraffin with toothpick.
5. Cool on waxed paper.

Gettin' Ready for the Holidays- Recipe #3

2008-12-16T07:51:00.000-08:00

Soft, Spicy, Heavenly Ginger Cookies

Ingredients:
3/4 cup margarine, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/4 cup molasses
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup raisins (optional)
2 tablespoons white sugar

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Stir in the molasses.
3. Mix the water and baking soda and stir.
4. Sift together the flour, salt, and dry spices; add gradually to the sugar-margarine mixture.
5. Gradually stir the sifted ingredients, along with the ginger and raisins, into the molasses mixture.
6. Shape dough into walnut sized balls, and roll them in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar.
7. (The dough may be too soft to handle at this point- I suggest either adding a bit of flour, or refrigerating for 20 minutes[or even overnight]).
8. Place the cookies 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet, and flatten slightly.
9. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Gettin' Ready for the Holidays- Recipe #2

2008-12-15T07:07:00.000-08:00

Lemon Tea Cookies

Ingredients

Cookies:
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 2/3 cups flour
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Filling:
2/3 cup granulated sugar
3 teaspoons lemon peel, grated
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten

Directions:
1. In large bowl, Beat butter, 1/3 C powdered sugar, and vanilla with mixer on medium speed until well blended.
2. Stir in flour until dough forms.
3. Cover; refrigerate 30 minutes
4. Heat oven to 350°F Shape dough into 1" balls.
5. Place balls 2" apart. Press thumb into center of each ball to make indentation.
6. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove to cooling racks and cool completely, about 30 minutes.
8. In 1 qt saucepan, heat all filling ingredients over low heat about 25 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened.
9. Cool about 15 minutes.
10. Fill each thumbprint with rounded 1/4 tsp filling. Sprinkle 1 T powdered sugar over cookies.