Foolproof Holiday Beef Roast and Cranberry Goat Cheese Spread

The pandemic continues to influence how and why we entertain. The “why” is easy — that’s called nurturing and we all need that. The “how” is the harder part — following guidelines so we stay healthy.  Maybe you’ll celebrate the New Year like we are doing, another smaller gathering. No matter, entertaining will still go on. So I’m sharing 2 tried & true recipes again. … Continue reading Foolproof Holiday Beef Roast and Cranberry Goat Cheese Spread

Victorian Manger Herbs, And a New Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

Each week I chat with Matt Swaim on the Sonrise Morning Show, Sacred Heart Radio. Today we talked about the legend of Victorian manger herbs and I also shared a fun gingerbread cookie recipe for the holidays. The one shared today is from neighbor, Erin Phillips. Check this site out for another, softer version from daughter-on-law Jessie. Both are yummy! So let’s talk about the … Continue reading Victorian Manger Herbs, And a New Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

DIY Cranberry Orange Vodka: Oh Yes! And Doggie Biscuits

I had an executive culinary decision to make today. Requests for my clone of Wms. Sonoma peppermint bark are flowing in again. I honestly thought this cult favorite had made the rounds of our kitchens. I’m assuming there’s some newbies on board who want to make it. Then again, some requests are from readers who’ve been with me a while. So be patient — the … Continue reading DIY Cranberry Orange Vodka: Oh Yes! And Doggie Biscuits

Hoarfrost: Ever Heard of it?

Ron Wilson What is Hoarfrost? From friend, colleague and garden expert Ron Wilson. His site is ronwilsonline.com – check it out! Dec 11, 2020 Earlier today, I woke up and looked out a window to see a foggy start to the day. At first glance, I however overlooked the frost that was also present. As it became lighter and the morning continued, the frost lessened and by noon the … Continue reading Hoarfrost: Ever Heard of it?

Kids Gardening Fun Even in Winter: Homemade “Chia” Pets: Give as Gifts!

Ann Shipman of kidsgardening.org, shared her knowledge with Ron Wilson on his radio show this morning. So fun! Here’s a recipe for “Plant People” sort of like the chia pets. Grass seed, potting soil and fun craft supplies, plus glue are all you need! Overview: Homemade “Chia” pets are the perfect activity for a cold or rainy afternoon. Materials: Pair of pantyhose Potting soil Grass seed … Continue reading Kids Gardening Fun Even in Winter: Homemade “Chia” Pets: Give as Gifts!

Story of Shepherds and Magi and Fun Edibles for Holidays

This morning Matt Swaim of the Sonrise Morning Show and I chatted, as we do every Thursday, about Bible foods and herbs. Today it was about the shepherds and magi who came to honor Baby Jesus. This passage is in Luke: There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock. And look, an angel of … Continue reading Story of Shepherds and Magi and Fun Edibles for Holidays

St Nicholas Feast Day Stocking Stuffers

This Thursday on the Sonrise Morning Show/Sacred Heart Radio Matt Swaim and I chatted about the feast of St. Nicholas in our Catholic religion. Some history about the feast of St. Nicholas: Nicholas, born in a section of Greece which is now part of Turkey, came from wealthy parents who died when he was young. They taught him good Christian values, and he used his … Continue reading St Nicholas Feast Day Stocking Stuffers

Gourmet Hot Chocolate for Giving

Another student favorite. Really a different kind of hot chocolate – with white chocolate chips! Now for some reason I can’t find the photo but as soon as I do I’ll post it. Gift givers hot cocoa mix Note this recipe uses Dutch processed cocoa. If all you have is regular or special dark cocoa, go right ahead and use either. Ingredients 3 cups nonfat … Continue reading Gourmet Hot Chocolate for Giving