Happy Thanksgiving!

Best Wishes From Our House To Yours!

May Peace and Plenty Bless Your Day

Three Amazing Things -- Thanksgiving!

The Family Traditions Edition

We have a lot of holiday traditions -- some that I expect we take for granted, such as the simple fact that our house this time of year is just plain ole' packed with people: loved ones, loved ones, everywhere loved ones.  No doubt we're spoiled!  But it truly is the flip-side of having such a large family; we're never lonely at the holidays -- or ever, for that matter.  This year, though,  we're feeling deprived  because our move over the slopes has kept us from spending Turkey Day with my parents and most of my siblings, and Paul and Nicole couldn't make it home from Virginia (especially since Nicole is nine months pregnant and ready to pop!).  Alas!  But we still have nine of the children home, plus Aunt Nina and our good friend, Cathy G. who got to come home from school with Michelle for the holiday, so the numbers, though fewer are not paltry.  We are blessed and thankful.

 Other than the high base number for plate count, though, I think our Thanksgiving is fairly run-of-the-mill.  We serve all the traditional fare: turkey and stuffing, cranberry sauce, creamed corn and green beans, mashed potatoes (a vat), and rolls... And pies.  Oh, boy do we have pies at Thanksgiving, thanks to a couple of children who think it's their duty every year to surpass the number of pies from the year before. 

Through the years, we've also tried to incorporate various crafts and activities to help "bring home" to the children the many graces and blessings we have to thank God for.  We've done "Thankful Trees" and decorated with an ever-changing assortment of turkeys, pilgrims, and Indians.  And each year invariably brings a new board game obsession. ( Last year it was Apples to Apples. We had such a blast with that game, I'm curious to see if anything can top it!)   But, in the flux and change as the children grow and my energy and initiative waver from year to year, there remain always  certain traditions that are tried and true, things we do that never change, and that must be observed for Thanksgiving to proceed.  Here are three:
Amazing Traditions We Love

1.  I don't actually remember when we first brought him home, but I think I found our little stuffed squirrel at a  yard sale and he's been part of our fall tradition for many years -- going back to when our big boys weren't very big.   Every autumn, starting around All Hallow's Eve, and continuing through Thanksgiving day, our little squirrel scampers through the house, looking for a hiding place.  And every morning, the little ones get up and hunt him down.  It's tradition, a rite of passage from fall to winter that we can't imagine not having part of our days.  This past summer, I found a little friend for our squirrel that I just brought out this week, and he's been flying around the house looking for places to hide at night, too. 

 Meet Tom Turkey, our newest tradition!

2.  Isn't it funny how food -- especialy sweets -- take up such a large portion of our holiday memories?  My last two Amazing Things have to do with food.  No surprise, huh?  Isn't it funny how food -- especially sweets -- take up such a large portion of our holiday memories?  Not that it's a bad thing, mind you!  It's wonderful when we can appeal to all the senses to make happy memories for our families!  For many years now (again, I have no idea how long we've been doing it!), we've taken out the Candy Squirrel every autumn.  He stays out in a prominent place through Thanksgiving, and is only put away when the Christmas decorations come out.  Traditionally, he stores coffee flavored Werther's candys, but sometimes that changes out with caramels or candy corns.  Getting to snitch a piece of candy from the squirrel is a treat, reserved for well-behaved children, and has been employed for some time as an effective bribery technique of the season.  Viva la tradition!

3. The other food-related Amazing Thing we have in our repertoire for Thanksgiving is the traditional Thanksgiving Day Apple Ring dessert.  My mother invented this treat when I was a child, and I can only give an approximation of how it's made, because I don't honestly know if it's ever been put down in print before, but I highly recommend trying it if you can lay your hands on some spiced apple rings.  They're easy, festive, and delicious!

Apple Rings Dessert

Take:

A jar or two (or three or four) of spiced apple rings
a package (or two or three) of creamed cheese
walnuts or pecans if desired, chopped
powdered sugar
vanilla or almond extract
maraschino cherries
a bed of frilly lettuce for garnish

Remove the apple rings from the jar and let drain thoroughly in a collander so they're not too drippy.  Beat softened cream cheese with approximately a half cup of powdered sugar per package of cream cheese (or to taste) and about a half teaspoon of extract. You want the mixture to "hold" when spooned out, to be firm, not runny, but not too "globby" either, if you know what I mean.   Stir in chopped nuts if your gang likes nuts. 

Then, take your apple rings ( I do this on a couple layers of paper towels to absorb any extra drippiness at this stage) and layer them with spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture: apple ring -- cream cheese -- apple ring -- cream cheese.  Then top with a maraschino cherry.  Arrange on a platter on a bed of lettuce.  The red, green and white look so pretty together and usher in the coming Christmas season!  Easy!  And yummy!

Sidenote:  I looked through all my files for a picture of these from last year, but couldn't  find one!  Durn!  I'll be sure and take a photo when we make them this year.  They're pretty easy to envision, though, I hope, for anyone who might have time and inclination to give this recipe a try...

Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!

Simple Woman Monday

7:20 a.m. on a Monday Morning

Outside my window...  The light is pearl grey, sifting through low clouds.  A coverlet of snow lies on the ground.  The Mesa has muscled its way out of the clouds  and is showing off a mantle of snow over its dark blue shoulders.

I am hearing...  Theresa playing "Two Horn Pipe" on the piano, William and Gabe chattering and playing with an airplane Gabe made out of a kleenex box, Anna asking me to check her spelling on a paper she's bringing to her teacher about the first Thanksgiving.

I am thinking...  I'd better get a move on and get the kids to school.  It only takes five minutes to go down the driveway and around the bend to school so it's easy to take time for granted.  It's pitiful.  Here we are so close to school, and we've come perilously close to being late on more than one occasion.  How would we explain that to the Sisters?

I am wearing...   a rust-colored, wrap-bodice tee and a long black hoody sweater over my hippy-gypsy skirt.  I love this skirt; it's made of  patchwork quilt in several patterns based in black: houndstooth and buffalo checks, a couple different florals, and squares of velvet.  It's warm and cozy and goes down to my ankles.  A perfect skirt for a cold, snowy morning.  A pair of cozy moccasin boots and I'm on my way to take the kids to school.

I am wondering...  when I'll see the rest of my kiddos.  Jon drove back with Dominic and Michelle from Omaha to Denver yesterday and the story is that they are meeting up with Kevvy, who lives there now (as does Jon).  They're spending a couple of days visiting friends and relatives in town, they say, before they head over the mountains and home with my sis, Nina.  Tomorrow, I think. Weather permitting.  I'd love to have them here sooner (selfish as I am), but it's actually a good thing they're pausing on the eastern slope today because the western mountains are getting socked with a big snow storm right now.

 Praying... that it lets up before they head over tomorrow!

I'm laughing at...  William, who thought yesterday's dinner was "Slobber Joes."  And who, after belching at the dinner table said:

 Excuse me.  [pause]
That was rude. [pausepause]
And unkindly. [pausepausepause]
 And I shouldn't drink my drink up so fast. [pausepausepause]
 I'll try not to let it slip out again. [giggles from his crowd]

(And proving that this four-year-old's got the patter down cold and we don't really need to bother with correcting him, because he can do it himself.  Which is progress, I guess)

I'm planning..  Thanksgiving dinner, of course!  But I  also have to figure out how I can have Christmas 100% taken care of before I leave for Virginia on the 12th.  The plan is for me to drive back cross-country with Paul to bring their car west (as they'll be stationed in San Diego after Christmas -- and Nicole is taking my return ticket to fly back to Denver with the baby), so I won't get home until the 21st or so.  Yikes!  The challenge will be to make Christmas at home as cozy, warm, and normal as I can -- without me being here.  I'll keep you posted on what I figure out...

I'm sharing these photos... of a day in the life at our house.  Here's the rest of the family hard at work after Theresa, Anna, and Gabe headed off to school this morning. (Not pictured: me, obviously hard at work blogging and taking pictures... ;)



Cathy working on penmanship

 

Dan doing whatever it is he does (I think checking investments here)



And then there's William.  Ain't it the life? I wish I were four years old! 

Filed Under...

... I don't want to hear about it!

Now this girl seriously needs to lose some weight, don't you think?

But, get this, I caught the flu bug that was going around, and had the worst of it last weekend, but for whatever reason, my stomach just hasn't been able to get back on track, so I've hardly eaten anything for a week.  And in that time of eating significantly less food than usual, I've lost --

Are you ready?

Drumroll....


I've lost...

 all of two whole pounds.

!

Hmph.

So, well...  I guess I'm not giving up, but I must say it's downright discouraging!

I went to my naturopath and told her about my lack of weight loss problem and she said, "Welcome to the world of perimenopause."  But then she did some thyroid testing, too, so maybe that can be my new excuse. =sigh=  In the meantime, my sis, Nina and I have a pact that we will at least not gain any weight during the holidays.  Then, in the way of New Year's Resolutions...  well...  I guess we'll figure that out when the time come.  But the idea is that all the New Year's weight loss ads might get us psyched to do some real dieting.

Mmmmm...  Well, may be.

But now I have to get through Thanksgiving without gaining more than the two pounds I lost this past week.

Yeah, riiiiiight.

You know, of course, that just smelling the pies the children will be making is going to add at least two pounds to my plumpling middle-aged figure.

Again, I =sigh===

It may be a lost cause.

The Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hungary

Repost from November 19th, 2008 

(Check out how little the girls look in the photo below.  Goodness how time flies!)

One of my patron saint Elizabeths, this dear saint is one of the examples of sanctity within a happy marriage. Though betrothed to Ludwig of Thuringia when she was only four years old, and married at the tender age of fourteen, she and her husband were well matched and loved one another deeply. They had three children and were the model of wedded bliss and harmony, while being always true children of the Church, patrons of the poor, and examples of piety to all.

But, a tragedy of crosses interupts this happily-ever-after story at a heart-achingly early chapter. When Elizabeth and Ludwig's youngest child was still an infant, Ludwig was killed while fighting in the crusades, leaving Elizabeth to cruel treatment by the royal court. She was dispossessed of everything she owned, and forced to beg for herself and her children. At one time she was resigned to shelter in an abandoned pigstye, shunned by everyone. But, Elizabeth suffered all these crosses with perfect patience. She became a third order Franciscan, devoting herself to those poorer than herself, and supporting herself by hiring out her skill in spinning. Her constant goal through her troubles remained always her eternal reward ~ and the promise of resting in Christ, reunited with her beloved husband in heaven.

She died at the age of 24, in the year 1231.

She is the patron saint of: bakers; beggars; brides; Catholic charities; charitable societies; charitable workers; charities; countesses; death of children; exiles; falsely accused people; Franciscan Third Order; hoboes; homeless people; hospitals; in-law problems; lacemakers; lace workers; nursing homes; nursing services; people in exile; people ridiculed for their piety; Sisters of Mercy; tertiaries; Teutonic Knights; toothache; tramps; widows.

Celebrating the day:

One of the legends of St. Elizabeth is that of the miraculous roses. Most of us are familiar with this image in St. Elizabeth's iconography. The story goes that Elizabeth was bringing bread to the poor and was surprised by her husband, who (for some reason) disapproved of this practice. When he commanded her to show him what she carried in her basket, the bread she had baked for the poor was miraculously transformed to roses, and at this obvious proof of his wife's sanctity, Ludwig was converted. This is not likely to be a true story, as Ludwig is known to have been a pious Catholic, supportive of his wife's openly giving to the poor. Nevertheless, it's a beautiful legend, and one that inspires the tradition of baking bread on this day.


Here is a great picture-filled bread making tutorial we found for beginners.

But, today at our house, I think we'll make Theresa and Cathy's Easy Breadsticks.

**Since St. Elizabeth spun for a living, it would also be appropriate to practice any of the "yarn arts" today in her honor.

Knitting and crocheting, besides being practical and fun womanly arts, can be applied to the corporal works of mercy.


You can find details about crocheting for preemies at the Crochet Cabana or the Preemie Project. Or you can contact your local children's hospital for details on specifics there. We are personally grateful to the sweet ladies who crocheted the teeny tiny hats donated to the NICUs where four of our children spent their first days of life!

If knitting and crocheting are not your thing (we're really not very good at it at our house), here is a wonderful, simple pattern for making soft little blankets for preemies. No sewing involved! We made these for all or our babies in the NICU, and noted that many were donated to the other children there. The skin of preemies is so very tender, that all but the softest knitted or crocheted things irritate, so these soft fleece blankets are ideal.
Crafting for a Cause is a site directory for all things charitable ~ from making blankets for the elderly in nursing homes to knitting teddy bears for policemen to carry in their cars for emergencies involving children.

And, last but not least...

Prayers for widows and widowers are very appropriate for the day, as are prayers for the homeless. And here is a Litany of St. Elizabeth.


PS~ I almost forgot! Run over to Charlotte's at Waltzing Matilda for a coloring page!

Turkeys,Turkeys, Everywhere!

And not a one to eat!

A few of the turkeys hanging around our house these days:

Here's the Elvis Turkey on the Fridge (by Cathy)
This is a foot and hand turkey.  See how it's made?

These next two, I just drew the turkeys' bodies and snipped out a bunch of feathers for the little boys to glue in place.   



Gabey made this one and had me help him with some spelling for the sign
he wanted to make for it.  Can you see what it says?  "I was born on Thanksgiving.
I am a mean turkey.  My name is Bob.  Don't eat me."





Gabe's turkey gave William the idea for this turkey's sign, dictated to Mommy:

Can you believe it? Only seven crafting days until Thanksgiving!

Here are a handful of simple projects we'd like to fit in:  

Here's a print-out turkey to color, cut, and paste.

An easy origami-style turkey can be found here.

Thee cutest printout Thanksgiving pinwheel can be found here.

 I LOVE, LOVE the squirrel and acorn Thanksgiving theme shown here.

(If I can get my printer working, I'm definitely printing out little "Chippy" the squirrel for placecards)

And here's the turkey we'll be making in art class Friday at the children's school.

Three Amazing Things

The Husband Edition

First, many thanks to Heather over at Faith, Fun, and Family for getting my butt self in high gear.  I appreciate her reminder about the Amazing Things posts -- and her idea for a topic is perfect, and appreciated, since I forgot to post one over the weekend.  Woops.  Sorry.   I've been more-than-usual absent-minded this week, as I'm still trying to fight a flu that seems to have grabbed on and won't let go. To tell you the truth, it's been amazing that the children have somehow managed to be fed, clothed, and to school on time this week. Which segways perfectly into the topic of the day...

Three things I find  amazing about my better half:

1.  Dan has never felt it was beneath him or outside his realm to participate 100% in the raising of our children or in the keeping of our home. Through all ten children he's taken his turn at diaper duty and late night floor-walking with criers.  He cheerfully pitches in to wash dishes and do other housekeeping duties that might need to be done if he's the one available to do it.  He gets a bang outof grocery shopping because he considers the challenge of finding the best deal better than big game hunting, I think.   And, I hate to admit it, but I think he may be a  better cook than I am.  (Just don't tell him I said so.)  The only thing he won't do is choose clothes for the children to wear or brush the little girls' hair.  And we're all good with that.

2.  My husband rubs my back.  Every night. 

3.  The guy is just -- unexpected.  Dan has always reminded me a little of the stories you hear told of St. Thomas Aquinas.  There is way more beneath the surface of the man than anyone would ever guess.  He's not a big talker, and tends to be somewhat slow and methodical in his ways, so if you didn't know better, you'd might think he was dull; you might not expect much.  But, like St. Thomas, he's a man well worth taking the time to know.  Smart.  Oh, my word.  He doesn't broadcast it, but he's got an edge on most anybody in the areas of politics, economics, and Catholic philosophy.  But, what's more important,  I never met anyone as nice as Dan.  He's just plain old good.  He can't help it; it's just in his bones.  I don't believe I've ever heard him badmouth another human being and his first inclination is to give others the benefit of the doubt.  Without a word of complaint, he sacrifices most everything he can give for others, from his time given to teach at the school -- to giving in to the children's choice of movies  to watch -- to giving his best pair of church pants to one of our sons because the son mentioned he needed some.   He is generous to a fault.  And more generous and forgiving with me than he probably should be.

My husband amazes me.  He humbles me.  I don't deserve this man.

(I love you, Dan.)

If you'd like to join in, please feel free!  No linky, but I'll add you here

next to:

Heather at Faith Fun and Family

November poem

November

by John Updike

The stripped and shapely

Maple grieves

The ghosts of her

Departed leaves.

The ground is hard,

As hard as stone.

The year is old,

The birds are flown.

And yet the world,

In its distress,

Displays a certain

Loveliness---

Makes My Monday

Paul and Nicole at the  annual Marine Corps Birthday  Ball in Richmond, Virginia.

The History of the Ball

The Marines have marked the anniversary of the "chartering" of the Marines since the inception of the Corps in 1775, but the formal tradition of marking the event with a ball has only been around since the early n1920s, when  Major Edwin McClellan, who was in charge the Corps' historical department, sent a memorandum to Commandant John A. Lejeune, suggesting the Marines’ original birth date of November 10 be declared a Marine Corps holiday.  Lejeune responded with the following memorandum:

MARINE CORPS ORDERS

No. 47 (Series 1921)
HEADQUARTERS U.S. MARINE CORPS
Washington, November 1, 1921

759. The following will be read to the command on the 10th of November, 1921, and hereafter on the 10th of November of every year. Should the order not be received by the 10th of November, 1921, it will be read upon receipt.

1.On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the name "Marine". In memory of them it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our corps by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.

2.The record of our corps is one which will bear comparison with that of the most famous military organizations in the world's history. During 90 of the 146 years of its existence the Marine Corps has been in action against the Nation's foes. From the Battle of Trenton to the Argonne, Marines have won foremost honors in war, and is the long eras of tranquility at home, generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war in both hemispheres and in every corner of the seven seas, that our country and its citizens might enjoy peace and security.

3.In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our corps, Marines have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term "Marine" has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.

4.This high name of distinction and soldierly repute we who are Marines today have received from those who preceded us in the corps. With it we have also received from them the eternal spirit which has animated our corps from generation to generation and has been the distinguishing mark of the Marines in every age. So long as that spirit continues to flourish Marines will be found equal to every emergency in the future as they have been in the past, and the men of our Nation will regard us as worthy successors to the long line of illustrious men who have served as "Soldiers of the Sea" since the founding of the Corps.

JOHN A. LEJEUNE,
Major General Commandant

As you might guess, the Marines, a group of men given to tradition and ceremony, were on board  about the formal reading of this tribute from the get-go  -- and the troops were even more enthusiastic about organizing an annual party to accompany the reading. It was in 1925, then, that the first formal ball was held, and on different bases throughout the world the men organized celebrations that ranged from the almos- always-present formal ball to mock battles, musical performances, pageants, and sports contests.
 
In 1952 Commandant Lemuel C. Shepherd, Jr.decided that there should be a standardized celebration throughout the Marines and outlined the now essential cake cutting ceremony.  Traditionally, the first slice of cake at any Marine Corps Birthday  Ball  is given to the oldest Marine present, who in turn hands it off to the youngest Marine, symbolizing the old and experienced Marines passing their knowledge to the new generation of Marines.  A reading of Marine Corps Order 47 (above) is read every year, as well as a message from the current Commandant, and, whenever possible, a banquet with dancing is included in the celebration.  To recognize the historical context of the day, a pageant of current and historical Marine Corps uniforms is often held, as well.  The tradition of the celebration of the birth of the Marines is an important part of the corps; Marines throughout the world mark the day, regardless of where they may, even in deprived environments or combat. 

It's a big deal!

Back at Our Homefront...

On November 10th of this year (a little over a week ago), our Marine son, Paul, and his wife, Nicole, were delighted to attend the Marine Ball in Richmond,  (they're currently finishing out the first segment of Paul's Officer's Training in Quantico).  That same Saturday, we were in Denver and I had met up with son #3, Jon, to catch a movie and take him for some "essentials" shopping (read: mandatory-annual-mom-says-you-probably-need-socks-and-underwear shopping excursion). 

So, Jon and I were heading into W-mart, and  I was texting back and forth with Nicole, who was at the Ball in Virginia -- when entering the store just ahead of us we spied a dashing young Marine -- a tall, handsome redhead -- in his dress blues and his pretty little date in a formal gown.  You know of course I had to run over and say hello to him, and, of course, as all Marines are, he was sweet and respectful, and happy to talk to the mother of another Marine, no matter what my son thought.   Jon, you see, is a reserved melancholic and not a nosy sanguine like  his mother, and he was more inclined to hide in the socks than stay and chat with a stranger...  but I grabbed his elbow and dragged him with me.  'Cause I'm just that kind of pushy mother. ;)

 Anyway.

It turns out the Marine and his date were on their way to a nearby hotel to celebrate the Marines' birthday at the Denver equivalent of Paul and Nicole's event and he really was excited to hear about my son doing the same thing back on the east coast.   He also told me he was shipping out to Afghanistan in two weeks.  And I told him I would keep him in my prayers.  The only thing is, I forgot to ask him his name.  So, in heaven, they're hearing about him as "that tall, handsome, redheaded Marine."  (Would you mind saying a prayer for him, too?)
 
 
Anyway ---  Before I go.  Here's something else that makes my Monday...

Our beautiful Nicole, and our grandson, Gavin...

who is due on  December 15th.

One month from today!!

(I've already got my ticket to Virginia, btw.)

For more Makes My Monday posts, run over to Cheryl's!

Because Fried Eggs and Bacon Go So Well With Coffee

(And because a couple people asked)

How To Care For Cast Iron 

I. Before you use your cast iron, make sure it's well seasoned.
   Sometimes -- in fact, most often if you buy your cookware new -- it will come already seasoned.  However, if you inherit it, or if you get it at a thrift store or garage sale (great places to find cast iron!), you'll likely need to give it some "lovin."  Very often people give away their cast iron because they haven't learned how to take care of it themselves.  But (HA!) their loss is our gain.

So, here's what you do. 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 and put a sheet of tin foil (or two), a little bigger than the size of your pan on the middle rack.
2. Using the cheapest oil you can -- don't waste your good olive oil -- coat the bottom of your pot or pan with a thin layer of liquid oil (If you're using Crisco, melt it first).  It should be more than a "spraying" of oil and less than a puddle.
3.  Turn your cookware upside-down over the aluminum foil and let it bake for 1 hour.
4.  After an hour, turn the oven off and let the pan slowly cool inside the oven.  This takes a couple of hours.  Then you're set to cook.

II.  Now that your cast iron is seasoned, there are certain measures it's important to take in order to keep the seasoning.

First, what not to do:

1.  Never, ever wash your cast iron with soap.  I know this is counter-intuitive, but the process of oiling and heating your pans kills any bacteria.  And soap will literally wash off your seasoning and cause your cast iron to rust.
2.  Never soak your cast iron, as this will also wash off your seasoning.
3.  Never take a hot pan and put it directly into water.  Let it cool before washing.

Now what you should do:

To wash
1.  Always scrape your pan well for cleaning, removing all debris from all the sides.  You can use a good metal spatula for this, a spoon, or something like my favorite little scraper gadget, shown here.
2. Wash with plain, lukewarm water.  Scrub with a wire scrub  brush or an abrasive sponge if needed.
3. Then dry thoroughly with a dish towel.  Avoid drip drying.

To cook
1. Either right after washing and drying or right before cooking, give your cookware a good coating of cooking spray or a rub of Crisco or other such grease. 
2.  When beginning to cook, heat your pan slowly, allowing the grease to "settle" in your pan. Avoid bringing your pan to a high heat too quickly.

A well cared-for set of cast iron can be a family heirloom, lasting many many years.  It's easy today, being used to supposedly non-stick pots and pans, to think that we shouldn't have to spend any care on our cookware.  But, seriously, how long has a non-stick pan ever lasted in your house?  Unless you are the most meticulous of cooks (Monk-like) and/or you don't cook much, the non-stick doesn't last more than a couple of years.  In our house, it's even less.  It scrapes and peels off eventually, no matter how much I warn our cooks to use the rubber spatulas.  We've tried many brands over the years, from the least to the most expensive, but we always come back to the old cast iron.

It takes  just  a few seconds more attention to grease the pans, and only a little detour from the norm to remember not to wash with soap.  And it's lovely to use the good, solid, thin-edged metal spatulas with no prick of conscience whatsoever.  We think it's worth the effort.  I expect my children to fight over who gets these pans in the will someday.  Especially the beloved Egg Skillet. (Shown left)

Check it out.  Just the right size for a two or three-egg breakfast.  Over easy, a little salt and pepper.  Side of toast with butter.  And a cup of coffee.

 Perfection.

This Girl

Anna's Birthday Today!

Eight years ago today, Anna Germaine, our eighth child and fourth daughter, came into the world.

The world will never be the same.

We didn't know it then, but Anna was our last little girl, and after three big sisters, she had quite a world of hand-me-downs to grow into.  And bows and headbands and leggins and sparkly shoes.  She gained every feminine influence a little girl could soak up from her big sisters and her aunts and her mommy, with lots of chitchat about clothes and princess movies.  And tea parties.  So she's quite the girly-girl.

But, then, she also came into the world of farm life, with four big, big brothers and the remnants of little-green-army-guy battlefields all around her.  She understands all about mucking hen houses and fixing fences.  And climbing trees. She grew up with brothers' wisecracking and teasing and throwing her in the air.  So she's also a first-class tomboy.

Girly girl and tomboy.

And funny. The combination of experiences in her eight short years have combined to give her a unique perspective of life -- and a crazy storehouse of wacko facts.  You never know what she's going to do or say, but you know it'll be original.  This girl is her own person, with her own view of life.  I will never have to worry about Anna following the crowd, as she doesn't even notice what the crowd is doing. Which is significant because she doesn't know what life would be like outside of a crowd. But, Anna --she's too fixed on what she's doing, herself, to care about other folks.  Which may be what makes her seem so random sometimes...  She is a hoot.  A trailblazer to Never Never Land.  And yet feet planted right flat on the ground.

We love her dearly.  Our littlest girl.  Anna Germaine, eight years old today.

Happy Birthday,  Anna Banana!

Happy Veterans Day!

Thank-you!

To All Our Military Men and Women

Past and Present

We Owe You Our Freedom!

FYI: Vets and their families:
The following establishments offer free services to honor Veterans' Day!

RESTAURANTS

1. Abuelo's Mexican Food Restaurant

The Veterans Day deals from Abuelo's vary by region, so check with your local restaurant before heading out. One example is a buy-one-get-one-free entree deal for all veterans and activspee military. Don't forget to bring your military I.D.

2. Applebees

All veterans and active duty military eat free from a limited menu at Applebee's on Nov. 11. Simply show proof of service or arrive wearing a uniform.

3. Golden Corral

For the 10th year in a row, Golden Corral Restaurants will offer their Military Appreciation Monday dinner. The event is scheduled this year from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 15. All personnel are welcome, including retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard and Reserves.


4. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants

For the 12th year running, participating restaurants in the national seafood chain offer a complimentary entree to vets from a special menu. Space is limited so online reservations are strongly recommended.


5. Outback Steakhouse

Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Bloomin' Onion and non-alcoholic beverage on Veterans Day at participating Outback Steakhouses.


6. Subway

Some Subway restaurants are distributing free six-inch subs to veterans or active-duty members on Veterans Day. Make sure you call ahead, however, as not all franchises are participating in this special event.


7. UNO Chicago Grill

Show up on Veterans Day in uniform, with a photo of yourself in uniform or with a military or veteran's I.D. and receive a free entree or individual pizza, with an entree or pizza purchase of equal or greater value.


MERCHANTS

8. Brides Across America

Bridal salons unite across America for the third year to give wedding gowns to qualified military brides. Each participating store prepares a number of gowns, most of which are samples and overstocks worth between $500 and $3,000. Dresses range in size from 4 to 22 and are given away on a first-come-first-served basis. Designers who support the cause include Vera Wang, Alfred Angelo, Carolina Herrera and many other major names in bridal couture.


9. The Dollar General

On Nov. 11, all veterans, active duty military, National Guard, Reserve, and their immediate families will receive a special 10-percent discount with a Veterans Day coupon. The coupon may be found in the Nov. 1 advertising circular in stores or by asking a Dollar General sales associate. Don't forget to keep an eye out for other Veterans Day coupons in your mail and local newspaper.


10. Foot Locker

U.S. Active Duty Military, National Guard, Reserves, veterans and their families with Foot Locker Veterans Advantage Cards receive a 20-percent discount every day of the year. That offer is good both online and at any store location, including Foot Locker, Lady Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Footaction and Champs Sports -- even on sale items.

11. Home Depot

The Home Depot offers a 10-percent discount (up to a $500 maximum) to all active military, reserve, retired or disabled veterans and their family members with a valid military ID. All other veterans qualify for a 10-percent discount during Veterans Day, Memorial Day and Independence Day.


12. Lowe's

Lowe’s expanded its 10-percent military discount last February to a year-round offer for all active duty, National Guard and Reserve, retirees and disabled service members and their immediate families. All other veterans receive the 10-percent discount on Veteran's Day, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. The discount is available on in-stock and special-order purchases of up to $5,000. The offer can't be used on sales at Lowes.com, on previous sales or on sales of services or gift cards. You must present a valid military I.D. card to receive this special discount.

13. Sam's Club and Hugo Canes

The warehouse store will give away 36,000 collapsible Hugo canes on Veterans Day to military veterans in need of mobility assistance. Sam’s Club membership is not required but proof of service may be necessary. The cane normally retails for $29.99.


14. Sports Clips Haircuts

The chain salon for men of all ages is offering a free haircut to active military and veterans on Nov. 11 at participating Sports Clips locations.


ENTERTAINMENT

15. Battleship Cove

The world's largest naval-ship museum, located in Fall River, Mass., offers free admission and a special ceremony for veterans, active duty and reservists on Veterans Day.

16. Brevard Zoo

Located in Melbourne, Fla., Brevard Zoo will once again offer free admission to all active and retired military from Nov. 11 to 14. As part of Veterans Weekend, Elton John’s red player piano will be on exhibit, performing exclusive Elton John recordings with the artist's vocal performances faithfully reproduced. In the event any military person is currently on active duty and not in the county or country, the Zoo will give free admission to their spouse.

17. Colonial Williamsburg

Active-duty and immediate family members receive discounts to this living-history museum year round. Visit the MWR/ITT offices at your military installation to obtain an exclusive Military One-Day-Plus Pass, or receive 10-percent off any general-admission pass at the walk-up ticket windows. Call 1-800-HISTORY 1-800-HISTORY for more information

18. Historic Jamestown

Historic Jamestown, the original site of the 1607 James Fort and the 17th century city of Jamestown, salutes U.S. veterans, current armed forces members and their family members with free admission on Veterans Day. No I.D. is required.

19. National Parks and Public Lands

Admission is free on Veterans Day to everyone at all national parks and Bureau of Land Management public lands.

20. San Jacinto Museum of History

The San Jacinto Monument in Texas rises 570 feet above the battleground and stands as a memorial to the men who fought for Texas independence. As such, it's fitting for San Jacinto to honor all military personnel on Veterans Day by providing free admission to all its venues.

21. Sea World

Throughout 2010, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter any one of Anheuser-Busch's SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission.

22. Universal Studios Hollywood

"The Entertainment Capital of L.A." offers discount options for tour and attraction tickets to all armed-forces members all year long, including Veterans Day. Eligible members include retirees, Department of Defense personnel, members of the National Guard and Reserves, their dependents and all other base personnel.

23. Vicksburg National Military Park

The park at Port Hudson, La., commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg by offering free admission to everyone on Veterans Day. Over 1,340 monuments, a restored Union gunboat and National Cemetery mark the 16-mile tour road.


CEREMONIES

24. Alexandria (Va.) Black History Museum


Honor the African American men and women who fought and continue to fight for our country by attending the Veterans Day event that includes speakers, music and dramatic presentations. The event is free to all and runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

25. Arlington National Cemetery

Those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country are recognized with a wreath-laying ceremony each year at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Nov. 11. Seating in the amphitheater is limited, so visitors should plan to arrive at least a half hour before the ceremony. The service begins at 11 a.m. The cemetery is located in Arlington, Va., across the Potomac from Washington, D.C. at the west end of the Memorial Bridge.

26. Fort Ward

A Union soldier in period uniform will lead free walking tours of Fort Ward in Alexandria, Va., at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Nov. 6. The hour-long tours introduce the history of the Defenses of Washington, the role of Fort Ward (a 19th-century fortification) and the troops who were stationed nearby during the Civil War.


27. Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens

Special Veterans Day activities include a free patriotic community concert by an all-veteran barbershop chorus at 11 a.m. "Martha Washington" also will conduct a free discussion about her work with veterans at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in the Little Theater. Finally, a wreath laying is scheduled at 2 p.m. at the tomb of George Washington. The wreath laying is included with regular Mount Vernon admission, although there is no entry fee active military and veterans on Veterans Day.

28. National Marine Corps Museum

Celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day with a ceremonial sword cake cutting at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Nov. 10. The Museum is located at 18900 Jefferson David Highway, Triangle, Va.

29. Navy Memorial

The Naval District of Washington will lay a wreath at the Lone Sailor Statue as 1 p.m. in a special commemoration on Veterans Day at 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.

30. The Smithsonian American History Museum

Historian Robert Gandt discusses "The Twilight Warriors," his tale of the pilots, Sailors, Marines and their Japanese adversaries who fought the battle for Okinawa -- the last and bloodiest sea and air engagement of WWII. The presentation begins at 3 p.m. on Veterans Day at the museum, located on the National Mall at 14th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.

31. The Smithsonian American Indian Museum


Photojournalist Steven Clevenger of the Osage Tribe discusses his book "America's First Warriors: Native Americans and Iraq" at 2 p.m. on Veterans Day at 4th St. and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. Clevenger spent three years documenting the experiences of Native American soldiers in the Iraq War.

32. Parades By City


VetFriends.com has created a state-by-state database of Veterans Day parades across the country. Search for your city or add your official Veterans Day parade to their listing.

33. Vietnam Veterans Memorial


The Veterans Day event at the Vietnam Wall features a color guard, speakers and a wreath-laying ceremony at 1 p.m. The Vietnam Memorial is located at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial at Constitution Ave. and Henry Bacon Dr. NW in Washington, D.C.

34. Vietnam Women's Memorial

Vietnam-era veterans and the children of veterans tell stories "in their own voices" about their experiences from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Veterans Day. The Memorial is located next to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Constitution Ave. and Henry Bacon Dr. NW, Washington, D.C.


35. World War II Memorial

A wreath laying ceremony is scheduled at 9 a.m. on Veterans Day at the WWII memorial, located at 17th St. between Constitution and Independence avenues NW, Washington, D.C.

(This list courtesy of the Coupon Sherpa!)

Three Amazing Things... In My Kitchen



1. Cast Iron Cookware is Amazing.

Our grandmothers knew what they were doing depending on these babies.  Yes, these pots and skillets are heavy; you don't do any flipping of pancakes with them, and they would make an effective weapon against a rhinoceros, but they last literally forever. Cast iron is awesome. Without adding cooking spray or grease, a fried egg slides right out of a well-seasoned frying pan.  There are never mystery flakes of non-stick coating peppering your food and there is no worry about the ill effects of aluminum or other alloys.  Good, old fashioned iron is just about as safe as you can get, and even adds the health benefit of extra iron to our diets.  Because the iron is so thick throughout, food cooks more evenly;  it takes a particularly ditzy cook to burn the bottom of the stew in a cast iron dutch oven.  Nothing works as well for "blackening" a roast, and

once something has heated through, you can turn off the heat, cover the pot or pan with a heavy lid and the food will stay good and warm for a remarkably long time.  And, what's best is that, relatively speaking, quality cast iron cookware is inexpensive.  I don't think I could cook without mine. I love my pots and pans.  Love 'em, love 'em, love 'em.

2.  This Unassuming Bit of Plastic Is Amazing.

Can you guess what it is?  It's a pot scraper!  It cost me all of .99 at a cooking store in a mall and I would not be without it.  The two corners have different shapes to fit into the curves of different pots or pans and the plastic doesn't scratch, but gets out almost anything that's stuck on.  The thin edge also works for peeling off stickers, scraping windshields, and scratching backs.  Of all the silly, goofy, dumb little things I've bought on a whim, this little gadget is the most amazing. Especially for less than a buck.

See, this is how it works:



Check it out.  It's the perfect paring for my cast iron frying pan.
Like comb for curly head or a  remora to a shark -- or something like that.


 And Last But Not Least...
3. My Cuisinart Coffee Pot Is an Amazing Thing.

  I love coffee.  And I love my coffee pot.  It has an automatic coffee bean grinder for fresh-ground coffee whenever we want it.  It's programmable.  It has a carafe that keeps the coffee hot for an amazingly long time.   And in a household of somewhat technologically incompetent early-morning fumblers, this is a machine that our nine-year-old can easily set up to brew.

 And it makes a very good cup of coffee. 

It is amazing. 



* Do you have any favorite amazing kitchen doodads you'd like to share? 

Back in the Day...

...extended family lived together as a matter of course.  It's a sepia-toned picture of the old days, the three or four generations living under one roof.  Great Aunt Edna never married and had to live somewhere. Or time came that the family didn't feel safe with Grandma and/or Grandpa out in the big wide world on their own. Sometimes daughters grew up, never married and just stayed home with Mother and Dad.  Sacrifices were made, pennies were pinched, lips were bitten (usually), but the situation  was made to work.  And there were very often more blessings than burdens in the deal.  Grandparents made the most wonderfully patient confidantes and playmates for children; aunts had time to braid hair and tell old family stories; uncles played football and read books...

Have you noticed, though?  It seems the olden days are back again. We're seeing it everywhere.  Families are re-discovering the advantages of pooling resources.  While it may not be the first choice for most, it's a necessary thing sometimes, even if only for a while, waiting for a tide to turn.   I don't think there are many of us that wouldn't double up in bedrooms and stretch the budget to take in a loved one out of a job. We've spelled our grown up sons while they've gotten on their feet, and expect to help each of the rest of the kids as they find their ways in the world, whether that means covering their car insurance or going on surivial Sam's trips with them to fill their fridges once in a while.  And they know they can always, always come home to live. 

It so happens that we've been blessed right now to be able to help my brother in this way while he finds a new job and gets on his feet.   It's as it should be.  Our son, Kevin is sharing rent with his aunt and uncle and our son, Jon, is staying with his grandparents.   God willing it won't happen, but if Dan's business doesn't take off, we know someone in the family would offer to be our safety net, too. It wouldn't be easy, but someone would be there.  It's what family does.  We play Scrabble, bicker, sing, watch I Love Lucy, make fun of each other's noses and feet, worry about each other behind each other's backs, steal chips off each other's plates, and open up our wallets and homes to one another in emergencies.

It's all good.  While Uncle Greg is here, we buy half-n-half in addition to our regular coffee creamer and we make extra popcorn on Wednesday movie nights.  In exchange, the cultural level has risen from discussing the relative merits of Disney princesses to rating PBS documentaries and members of the Tudor dynasty.  And we've got another pianist to add to the family soundtrack.  There can never be too much family under one roof.

But you aren't surprised I'd say that, are you?

 

Makes My Monday

One person who knows how to take bling seriously.

Anna, eight years old on Friday

And one who doesn't.

Kevin, 21 years old and not afraid to pose in a tiara

* Taken at Anna's birthday party which we celebrated in Denver on Saturday (though her actual birth day is the 12th).  Everyone joined in the festivities at Grandmom and Grandad's house except Paul and Nicole (still in Quantico,Virginia)  and Dominic and Michelle (in school in Omaha). All the aunts and uncles were present and accounted for, as well as two-thirds of the cousins.  Everyone talked a lot.  Ate too much.  Sang terrible.  Had a great time. Makes my Monday remembering it all.  I can even forget about the thousands of calories I consumed in the joy of the reminiscences.

*  But, then //insert scary-monster-movie music here// two of the last three hold-outs from last week's stomach bug soiree joined the fun Sunday morning. Making Mommy miss Mass and visiting with her Denver friends. (=sigh=) Causing furrowed brows of trepidation re: the drive back home over the mountains. 
Six hours.
 There was a lot of whining, but there were no "mishaps."
  Thank you, God.  That makes my Monday, too.

* For more Makes My Monday fun, head over to Cheryl's!