Potato Leek SoupIt's September here in northern New Mexico, where fall is not only in the air, but the ground, too! The earth remains cool even on a sunny day, thanks to nighttime temps in the 30s. (Give me a couple of months, though, and I'll pray for such balmy lows!)Ubiquitous with the return to cooler weather, shorter day... More..
Nothing, aside from layers of fleece and wool socks, will warm you like a bowl of thick, hearty soup. Case in point, the batch of Winter Squash Bisque I made last night - as the temps dipped into the 20s!I call it a bisque not because it contains seafood (it doesn't), but because its hue is that of an orangey-brown. A perfect... More..
Clearing negative energy from your home is a simple and, in my opinion, an absolutely necessary process. I mean, think about it: a home's walls have witnessed break-ups, divorces, fights - the usual human misgivings. Even new homes may have experienced heated arguments between contractors and vandals.MOVING INIdeally, you'll ... More..
HIGH COUNTRY STYLEPlanning a simple rite in the sticks? Or a grand affair on a secluded family ranch? Whether you're working with a wedding coordinator, or planning it alone, a few simple touches ensure a ceremony as memorable as one with marble floors and chandeliers.The Magic of Mother NaturePlan a morning or afternoon affa... More..
The Many Uses of Vinegar: CleaningI love vinegar. Granted, its smell is borderline offensive. But you can do so much with it, from cleaning and cooking to preparing home-made medicines. Here, I'll speak to the cleaning power of this wonder-liquid.WindowsMix 1c white vinegar and 1c water in a spray bottle. Spray down those win... More..
Incense, For Well-Charged AirMost of us have a superstition or three. I personally believe in several dozen, in addition to just about every wife's tale you've ever heard. I figure, better to be safe in all matters of the unknown.That said, I am a big believer in using the powers of herbs, resins and gums. Whether they scient... More..
Twice-Fried French FriesWhat's similar in goodness to the twice-baked baked potato - but a whole lot more satisfying? Nothing other than twice-fried french fries.The process is as simple as the name: you simply fry your fries twice.What you'll need:4-5 medium-sized potatoes, cut lengthwise approx 1/4" thick5 cups (approx) veg... More..
Simple Chocolate CakeRough day? Squabble with the spouse? A little chocolate can go a long way toward a better mood.My simple chocolate cake takes about 20 minutes to prepare, and 25 to bake. That's right, you're less than an hour away from a well-deserved chocolate binge.What you'll need:8 T (1 stick) salted butter3 T unswee... More..
My husband and I have two dogs: an 11-year-old male pit bull (named Dallas) and a one-year-old German Shepherd Dog (Cheyenne). Aside from regular vet visits, ample exercise and lots of lovin', our pups also enjoy a delicious and tried-and-true home-cooked meal.Long disturbed by the unnatural byproducts and immoral animal test... More..
Homemade Bread: The Basic White LoafAh, yes. The white bread your grandmother made. As did your mother - and your baking-challenged sister. But not you. Because there was something about the yeast (the kneading, the rise) that made it all wrong.Here, I present a truly undaunting and liberating recipe. Golden brown outside. So... More..
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