Poach-O-Matic
I love kitchen gadgets, especially with their implied promise of making me a better chef. Armed with the perfect device, I happily imagine that I could be the next Ina Garten or Julia Child.
While cruising the aisles of a local cookware shop recently, my eyes zeroed in on these colorful little silicone pods for poaching eggs. Small and flexible, they’re nothing like the three-piece skillet insert Mom used to have. The next morning, I could see H roll his eyes from behind the newspaper as I floated them in boiling water, dropped the eggs into place, and set the timer. Once done, the pods were plucked from the pot and flipped inside out, sliding the eggs onto the plate.
I’m not sure that using them qualifies me for a spot on the Food Network, but I was pleased with the results. Of course, now that I look at the photos, I think my next goal is to find some clever tool that will keep me from burning the toast.
Old-School Tweeting
I spied these two crows on the telephone line as I was leaving work last week. I can only imagine what they are chattering about.
Inflation
January and February are busy birthday months around here, beginning with H’s mom. As part of the celebration, H and I surprised her with several oversized helium balloons. They floated in her living room for almost a week before she was ready to clear out the decorations. Luckily, our nephew’s birthday arrived and we delivered the ever-so-slightly sagging balloons to his party, where they bobbled for another week. We celebrated my sister L’s birthday on Super Bowl Sunday back at our house and decorated with the same balloons, adding a few fresh ones to the drooping bouquet. Finally, my brother-in-law’s birthday arrived and we snuck over and tied them all to his mailbox. We’ve all gotten a chuckle out of our recycling efforts… now the push is on to maintain them until the middle of March for the next gala event.
They’re Back
The Sandhill Cranes have returned, or I should say, are migrating again. I posted on this last year in February, but it’s worth repeating. It is absolutely magical to be sitting in the house (windows closed) and hear a ruckus outside, only to discover that it’s the clattering chatter of these beautiful birds making their way back north. I always feel so privileged to get such a glimpse of nature firsthand.
Early Riser
Even in January, Mother Nature is working her magic. Lenten roses (also known as Hellebores) are one of my favorite perennials. Their leaves stay green throughout the winter and they are one of the first plants to bloom even in the midst of winter’s grip.
Birthday Boy
Another birthday celebration as our nephew turns fifteen on Tuesday
Birthday Girl
H’s mom turned ninety-one on Wednesday, prompting a week full of birthday celebrations and surprises with family and friends.
Mixed Messages
I’m embarrassed to admit it, but yes, this is our grocery buggy. H and I had out-of-town family visiting this past weekend, and we were stocking up on snacks. The shopping bag seems to be mocking us.
Is It Ready Yet?
Hi Everyone,
This blog is under construction, but not for much longer. I am eager to share my photos and thoughts, so put your tea kettle on and pull up a chair… we’re almost there.
Thanks so much for your patience.
Tree Fishing 