Comfort food gives comfort and joy, so it is good during the holidays or any time of the year!  Wikipedia defines comfort food as “Food that provides a nostalgic or sentimental value often characterized by its high caloric nature, high carbohydrate content or simple preparation.” I took an unscientific survey of foods that comfort, soothe, and relieve stress and anxiety.  … [Read more...]

CHEERS FOR CHURCH COOKBOOKS and those cooks who share cherished recipes!  These recipes have been vetted at Sunday School picnics, sunrise Easter breakfasts, salad luncheons, soup suppers and potluck dinners.  The menus for the fall harvest fundraisers very   often include meatballs and real mashed potatoes.  Some serve ham and meatballs, codfish with melted butter, sirloin … [Read more...]

Everything I know about playing poker I learned from country western singer Kenny Rogers.  Perhaps you recall his hit song “The Gambler”?  Some of the lyrics are very educational.  “You got to know when to hold’em.  Know when to fold’em.  Know when to walk away.”  The song continues with a warning about counting your money at the table.  Personally, I don’t have to worry about … [Read more...]

Word association game.  I say “parade” and you say __________________.  Maybe you said “Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade” or the “Rose Bowl Parade.”  Both are awesome if you like balloons and floats made of thousands of flowers.  Who doesn’t love a parade?  In southeastern Minnesota each little town has its own celebration and that usually includes a parade.  Lucky us! Most of us … [Read more...]