All Trails Lead Home

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-02-20T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hello, hope your week is starting out to be a good one. It's time for another Lois Elaine recipe....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Cake sounds really good right now, so today's recipe is going to feature one of Lois Elaine's great cakes, Cookie Sheet Cake.

Lois Elaine's Cookie Sheet Cake:

Boil together:
1 stick of butter or butter substitute
1 c. water
1/2 c. oil, such as canola or vegetable oil
4 T. powdered cocoa

After boiling, pour in a large mixing bowl and add:
2 c. sugar
2 c. flour

Stir together and add:
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 t. cinnamon
1 t. baking soda
2 eggs

Mix well and bake on a greased cookie sheet, 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Frosting:
Boil:
4 T. powdered cocoa
4 T. milk
3/4 stick butter or butter substitute

Add 3/4 box powdered sugar and 1/4 t. vanilla extract. Fold in 1 c. small marshmallows. Mix well and spread on cooled cake.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, happy Friday everyone. It's time for the Dog Blog!

Heidi and James' Sadie is hoping for a big snowstorm again in Oklahoma. Last year she had so much fun playing in the Okie snow she decided to run away to Minnesota where she would get even more. She came back in a few minutes, though. Too cold.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-02-13T07:00:00.012-06:00

Hello, how is your Monday going so far? Time for another Lois Elaine recipe....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Last week I published one of Lois's two recipes for the German potato dumpling dish KartoffelKloesse. This week comes her second recipe for this tasty treat....Her recipe card notes that she got this one from Arlene.

Lois Elaine's KartoffelKloesse II:

4 c. cooked potatoes (measure after they are mashed)
2 slices cubed dried bread, browned in 2 T. butter
2 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
3 eggs (beaten real well)
1/4 c. flour

Mix and shape into balls the size of a small orange. Keep hands floured. Put in boiling salt water for about 20 minutes. Remove and serve with gravy.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, hope your Friday is going great! Here is a nice dog for your Friday....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer took a walk last week at the Sutton Wilderness area in Norman, Oklahoma. Funny how all the grass is dormant for the winter everywhere else, but in the forest there is still a lot of green. Sofi gave her best pose for the Dog Blog....

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-02-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, hope you are doing good as we head into the dead of winter, otherwise known as February.....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Today's recipe is a little different - it's a traditional German dish known as KartoffelKloesse. Lois had two recipes, and I will publish the other one next Monday. The Muellers were of German descent and enjoyed many traditional treats. KartoffelKloesse are potato dumplings. These are good with sauerkraut or any kind of gravy.

Lois Elaine's KartoffelKloesse:

2 c. mashed potatoes
1 c. flour
1 egg
2 slices bread
salt to taste
butter for browning

Cut bread into small cubes and brown slowly in a little butter. To the mashed potatoes, add egg, salt and work in the flour until smooth.

Put in bread cubes to the mixture and mix lightly. Put a little flour in palm of hand and take enough potato mixture to make a ball about 2 inches in diameter. Make the balls until the mixture is used up. Then drop them into a pan of salted boiling water. Cover tightly and let boil slowly for 20 minutes.

Do not lift the lid until done. Use large fork to put on platter.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-02-03T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hello, hope your February got off to a good start!

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer is ready for the Super Bowl and tried on her uniform to get into the spirit. She plays for the K9 team....

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-01-30T07:00:00.002-06:00

Don't you just love these cold January days? How about a recipe to look over while you keep warm?

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Today's recipe is for Peach Salad. This is a quick and easy dessert that will bring a smile to your family's faces....

Lois Elaine's Peach Salad:

9 oz. Cool Whip
24 oz. small-curd cottage cheese
1-16 oz. can sliced peaches, drained
1 pkg. peach jello mix - dry

Just stir it all together. Keep refrigerated.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-01-27T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hello, happy Friday, everyone! Here is a cute dog, just for you....

The original Trail Boss loved snow and loved to model her snow coat. Here she is, ready for another great Oklahoma snow!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-01-23T07:00:00.001-06:00

Good morning and happy Monday! Time for another Lois Elaine recipe!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Nothing warms you up more on a cold winter day than oatmeal. But some of us hate that sticky, slimy stuff in the bowl. Oatmeal cookies, now that's another matter....Lois Elaine snagged the recipe off the oatmeal box back in the 1960's and that's the recipe she used for her cookies. Here it is....

Lois Elaine's Oatmeal Cookies Off The Oatmeal Box:

3/4 c. shortening, soft (or you could use butter/butter substitute)
1 c. firmly-packed brown sugar
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg
1/2 c. nuts (chopped, optional)
1/4 c. water
1 t. vanilla
1 c. sifted flour
1 t. salt
1/2 t. baking soda
3 c. oats, uncooked

Beat shortening, sugars, egg, water and vanilla together until creamy. Sift together flour, salt and baking soda. Add to mixture. Blend well.

Stir in oats and drop by teaspoonfuls onto greased baking sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees 12-15 minutes. Makes 5 dozen.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-01-20T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hello, hope your Friday is going great! Here is a nice dog for your enjoyment....

Jim and Mary's pup is as cute as a baby bear! He loves riding in his John Deere Gator and posing for super-cute pictures!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-01-16T07:00:00.001-06:00

What a great Monday! Hope it is warm and toasty where you are today....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Lois Elaine didn't believe in canned cake frosting - most great cooks don't. She collected numerous frosting recipes, and today we are featuring one of them. Lois Elaine called it Saunders Frosting.

Lois Elaine's Saunders Frosting:

1/2 c. milk
2 T. flour
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. soft butter or butter substitute
1 T. vanilla extract
1/2 square bittersweet chocolate (if you want chocolate frosting)

Mix and cook the milk and flour until thickened. Cool.

Cream the sugar and butter together in a mixing bowl. Add the milk/flour mixture by spoonfuls, beating constantly with a mixer. Add the vanilla. For chocolate frosting, add the chocolate square. Keep mixing until done.

Note: The more you beat this, the fluffier the frosting will be.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-01-13T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hello and happy January Friday! Since it's Friday, it must be a dog....However, we have an intruder today on our Dog Blog.....

This large longhorn felt that his beautiful mug belonged on the Friday Dog Blog, since he is at least as attractive as all those poodles and schnauzers. Maybe he's right - who's going to argue with him????

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-01-09T07:00:00.003-06:00

Hope your Monday is going well. Here is another recipe straight from Lois Elaine Mueller's recipe box for you to try....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

This is a straight-forward recipe for a straight-forward dish - Veal Parmesan. Great dish for a cold winter's night....

Lois Elaine's Veal Parmesan:

1 lb. thin veal cutlets
1 egg, beaten
1/2 c. bread crumbs
2 T. shortening or oil
1 can tomato soup
1/2 soup can of water
1/4 c. minced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
dash of thyme
4 oz. thinly-sliced Mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese

Dip the cutlets in the egg, then in the bread crumbs; Add shortening/oil to an oven-proof skillet (cast-iron is wonderful for this), add the cutlets and brown on both sides.

Add the tomato soup and water, onion, garlic and thyme. Cook over low heat about 45 minutes, or until tender. Stir now and then. Top with the cheese; sprinkle with grated Parmesan to taste.

Broil in oven until cheese melts. Makes 4 servings.

The Friday Dog Blog

2012-01-06T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hello, hope your 2012 is going great! Since this is Friday, it must be time for a dog....

Princess Leia, the coiffured and manicured 10 foot tall poodle from Poteau got a bone for Christmas. She is using her 5 foot long mouth to make quick work of it....

New Year's Break

2012-01-04T07:00:00.008-06:00

Taking a very short break at the first of 2012 to recover from the holidays, but the Dog Blog and Recipe Blog will show up as usual. Hope everyone had a GREAT New Year's!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2012-01-02T07:00:00.014-06:00

Hello, hope your 2012 has started off great! We have a quick and hot recipe for your Monday....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Today's recipe is for a quick and tasty hot lunch, Cream Dried Beef on Toast. Just thinking about will warm you up!

Lois Elaine's Cream Dried Beef on Toast:

1 pkg. dried beef
Milk (however much you will need, according to how much beef you are making)
1 T. butter
salt, pepper

Cook all of this on low heat until boiling (keep stirring). When boiling add a mixture of flour and water to thicken until thick enough.

Serve on hot toast.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, hope your last Friday of 2011 is going great! Here is a double dose of dog for your Friday Dog Blog....

Charlie Brown and Mary Ann are fast friends. Not only do they look alike, they also laze around alike! Nothing better to do on a cold winter day....

How To Keep Your Pet Safe During The Holidays

2011-12-28T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas! Now we have New Year's in our sights. While your holidays are in full swing, it might be a good idea to take a look at this article on how to keep your pets safe during this hectic time.

Lights, decorations, good food... every year, as we celebrate the holidays, we fill our homes with seasonal cheer for ourselves and our families. However, what may seem beautiful and harmless to us may pose hidden dangers to our pets. Don't let an emergency spoil the festivities! Below are some common holiday hazards for dogs and cats and ways to prevent them. This article is courtesy of my dog's vet - name and address at the bottom of the page.

Holiday Hazard - How to keep your pet safe

Dangerous Foods
The following can be toxic to pets: chocolate, raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, garlic, onion, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, bread dough, and sugar-free candy and gum containing the artificial sweetener xylitol.

Regular Foods
Despite tradition, bones should never be given to pets. Even beef, ham, and other "regular" foods that are not considered toxic can cause illness in pets. If your pet is a moocher, keep a saucer of his regular treats on the table to offer when he asks. He probably won't know the difference!

New Treats and Toys
Even a pet-safe treat can cause stomach upset if it is new to your pet. Offer only one of these at a time (ideally, separated by a few days). If your pet becomes ill after eating a holiday treat, it will be easier to trace the source and discontinue it. Also, check new toys for sharp edges, pieces that can be chewed off, or other potential hazards.

Plants
Hazardous plants include mistletoe, some evergreens (including some types of pine), and holly bushes and berries. Try to keep these plants away from pets, or at least supervise pets when dangerous plants are nearby.

Decorations
Tinsel, tree ornaments, ribbons, string, and garlands are some items that can be dangerous if eaten by pets. Keep these items away from pets — especially when pets are unattended. Don't forget to cover any electrical cords or keep them out of reach.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide
Monitor pets near fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, candles, and portable heaters. Also, don't forget to check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are functioning properly. Space heaters, furnaces, and idling cars (in a garage) can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in pets and humans.

Christmas Trees
Monitor your pets when they are around your holiday tree. Pets may eat the needles (even from artificial trees) or drink water from the base of the tree, which can be toxic (especially if there are preservatives in it). Keep electrical cords and decorative lights out of reach, too.

In many cases, if your pet has eaten or drunk something toxic, warning signs will include gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Other signs may include tiredness and lack of appetite, especially in cats that have eaten lilies. If your pet shows any of these signs, or if you think he or she has eaten something dangerous but is not showing any signs yet, please call us right away. Treating your pet as soon as possible is essential!

The Doctors and Staff of Eastmoor Animal Clinic

Eastmoor Animal Clinic
400 SE 4th St
Moore, OK 73160

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, hope your Monday is warm and cozy and that your holiday celebrations were wonderful! Here is a great recipe for you....

Gelatin salads were popular in the 1960's and taste just as good today! Here is one that Lois Elaine used often, she got it from her sister Clarice....

Lois Elaine's Gelatin Salad:

1 pkg lemon jello

1 pkg lime jello

2 c. hot water

1/4 package marshmallows

1 can drained crushed pineapple

1 small pkg cream cheese

1/2 c. nuts

1/2 pt. whipping cream

Put marshmallows in top of double boiler until dissolved (can probably use the microwave here). Melt jello with 2 c. hot water. Take a little of jello mixture and pour into marshmallows and mix. Let stand until half firm. (Cream pineapple and cream cheese together first). Add crushed pineapple and cheese to the half firm jello. Fold into jello mixture and also fold in 1/2 pt cream, whipped, and the nuts. Let stand until firm.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-12-23T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hello and hope your holidays are going great! Here is a Christmas-y pooch for your Friday....

Sofi the talking Schnauzer loves playing Santa. That darn fuzzy cap in the eyeball can be a real pain, though....

Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Break

2011-12-21T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hello and happy Wednesday! Taking a little break from the Wednesday blog post while buying a few more gifts, but the Friday Dog Blog and Monday Recipe Blog will make their usual appearances. Have a great Christmas!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday, everyone! It's time for another Lois Elaine recipe!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Nothing says winter and holidays like a batch of home-made hard candy! If you haven't tried this with your kids, now is the time!

Lois Elaine's Hard Candy:

1/2 c. water

2 c. sugar

1/2 c. white corn syrup

1/2 t. food coloring of your choice

1/2 t. oil flavoring of your choice

Powdered sugar

Stir together. Then cook without stirring until a hard crack stage, 290 degrees. Remove from heat. Add food coloring. Mix quickly. Add the oil flavoring and mix quickly.

Pour onto a cookie sheet, ungreased. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Don't put on counter, it will be HOT. As it hardens, cut with scissors.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-12-16T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hello, hope you are having a great time getting ready for the holidays! Time for a dog....

Sofi the talking Schnauzer loves to play in the snow, but needs to grow a little before she takes on the big stuff! In this case, she fought the snow and the snow won....

Getting Ready For Christmas!

2011-12-14T07:00:00.005-06:00

Taking a Wednesday break while getting ready for the holidays. The Friday Dog Blog and Monday Recipe Blog will show up as usual, though!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello...Hope your Monday is nice and warm. How about a recipe?

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Here's a blast from the past - Divinity candy! Lots of moms made this candy every Christmas in the 1960's, including Lois Elaine. Like most candies, it's not the easiest to make, but the payoff is heavenly!

Lois Elaine's Divinity:

1/2 c. corn syrup
1/2 c. water
2 c. sugar
3 egg whites
1 t. vanilla
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Place sugar, water and corn syrup in saucepan and bring to a boil. Continue to boil until candy test forms a hard ball when dropped in cold water. Candy thermometer should register 240 degrees.

Beat egg whites until stiff.

Pour hot candy mixture into egg whites, beating constantly. As candy begins to thicken add vanilla and nuts. Continue to beat with nylon spoon until candy loses its gloss and is thick and stands in peaks.

Drop by teaspoonfuls on waxed paper.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-12-09T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hope everyone is having a great Friday! Today, we have Princess Leia back - as everyone knows the Princess is the 10 foot tall poodle from Poteau. The Princess has just had her hair and nails done for the holiday celebrations, her gifts are bought and now she wants to wish all of her friends a very merry Christmas and happy holidays!!

Some Practical Christmas Gifts For Older People

2011-12-07T07:00:00.002-06:00

Here is another terrific article from wikiHow.com. I ran across this while trying to get some ideas for Christmas gifts and thought I would share it with you.

How to Choose Practical Christmas Gifts That the Elderly Will Appreciate

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
Choosing the best gift to give grandma and grandpa is a dilemma that faces all families at the holidays. They have everything, need nothing, have limited space, but love to feel that someone cares enough to take time to find the perfect gift for them. We have some suggestions for practical gifts for the elderly that will not be forgotten after the holidays. Although gift cards are a great gift for some people, quite honestly the older folks don't know how to use them or forget to use them, so we do not recommend gift cards for this generation.

Steps

PikStiks are one of the handiest tools ever invented, for both old and young. These reachers and grabbers come in a range of lengths and enable someone to retrieve items from the top shelf of a cupboard or closet, without standing on a chair or to pick up items that are on the floor, without having to get up from the sofa, and can even reach and grab objects that have fallen behind the washing machine. They are easy to use, even for people with arthritis or limited arm and hand movement.
Sliding cabinet organizers are such a great addition to any kitchen, that we feel compelled to mention them as a holiday gift idea. We know this may seem like a weird idea, but think about it for a while. These cabinet organizers come in a variety of sizes for a variety of uses and would help all older people with storing and retrieving cooking pots and cleaning supplies, without having to get on their hands and knees to try to find something in the back of the cabinet. Of course, someone would have to help with the installation of these, but think how easy it would be for them to find and reach everything.
Gardening items, such as a gardening stool with garden utensils, are always a perfect gift for those seniors who still have access to a yard or patio. Whether your recipient has a vegetable or flower garden these are perfect gift ideas that will allow them to cultivate their garden with little or no concern for the needed tools and with a comfy place to sit while they work.
Colorful, theme based, garden stakes are an easy and beautiful addition to any yard or garden. With low maintenance and easy set-up anyone can decorate their outdoor and indoor living areas with these cute and whimsical decorations. No tools or ladders are required to display these, making them senior-citizen friendly. Some nursing homes may allow these to be placed outside a resident's window.
Shopping cart trolleys were originally designed for people who walk to the corner grocery store or frequent farmer's markets - like city folks and many Europeans. But they are not just for hauling groceries, they are perfect for transporting laundry to the laundry room or outdoors to the clothesline, for hauling groceries from the car to the house, and for moving a pile of stuff from one room to another.
Sheepskin seat belt covers are usually not something you think of as a gift, but the comfort level of senior citizens is so improved that they will thank you over and over for these covers. Even if they do not drive, one of these on the passenger seat belt will make their travels more comfortable by keeping the belt from digging into their neck. While on sheepskin ideas, a sheepskin wheelchair pad is perfect for someone who is wheelchair bound, but these can also be used on a living room chair for extra comfort and warmth. Be forewarned that if they have small pets, the cats and dogs will probably claim the sheepskin pad as their official napping mat!
Wall mounted ironing boards are not only a space saver, but a labor saver for the older generation, especially if they have had to downsize their living space. Plus, as we get older and wiser there is less and less items that we feel we have to iron. Putting up and taking down those large clumsy ironing boards, just to iron a collar on a shirt, is not easy.
Fleece blanket throws are always an appreciated gift, especially when paired with a book or movie. A fleece blanket is lightweight, easy to fold, easy to wash, and will keep them warm and comfy on those long, lonely winter nights.
Tag Tamers, which are soft attachable covers for clothing tags, are a wonderful gift for senior citizens as they will stop the itchiness and scratching caused by sewn-in garment tags Yes, you could cut out the tags, but there is always a little left at the seam and that can be more irritating than the whole tag itself.
A retractable clothes drying line is another idea that many people never think about. Again, these are great for those who have had to downsize their homes or who can't easily get outside to hang up items on the outdoor clothesline. These lines range from 8 to 40 feet of drying surface and the units mount in any small space, such as the laundry area, a mudroom, even in the bathtub/shower.

Even though these suggestions are for gifts that will surely be appreciated by senior citizens, they could also be considered as practical gift ideas for anyone on your holiday list. Make this holiday gift giving season one that your family and friends will thank you for throughout the year.

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Choose Practical Christmas Gifts That the Elderly Will Appreciate. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-12-05T07:00:00.002-06:00

Hello, hope you are having a terrific December! Here is a recipe for your Monday....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

The Mueller family loved the holiday season, and Lois Elaine used the holidays as an excuse to bake great cookies and desserts. As the holidays approach again this year, I will post more of Lois Elaine's Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes.

I have made these butter cookies many times, and they are to die for. If you only make one batch of cookies for the holidays, it should be these!

Lois Elaine's Butter Cookies:

4 c. sifted flour
3/4 lb. butter
1/4 lb. butter substitute
3/4 c. butter
4 egg yolks (save the whites)
3/4 c. almonds, ground

Mix together like pie crust. Add the egg yolks.

Roll real thin and cut with a cookie cutter. Put a little egg white and ground almonds on each cookie.

Bake at 350 degrees on an ungreased baking sheet for about 8 minutes.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hope you are having a great Friday! Here is a nice dog for your enjoyment....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer talks a lot, and the thing she says the most is....
I LOVE THE SOONERS!!!

Here's How To Winterize A Vacant Home

2011-11-30T07:00:00.001-06:00

I'm borrowing a nice article from wikiHOW on how to winterize a vacant home. Just in case you ever need to know.....It's the best article on the subject that I have found.

How to Winterize a Vacant Home

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Whether you're closing up a summer vacation home or leaving your very own home during winter for an extended period, it's important to close up for the season. So what should you do to ensure that when your family returns months (or even a year) later, you won’t find a nightmare waiting? The following suggestions will help you to plan and execute a winterization down to the last nut and bolt.

Steps

Look carefully around the exterior and interior of your home and decide what needs to be done. Write it all down to create a checklist. This essential “plan of action” will come in handy when it’s time to open up the place again, because without it, you probably won’t be able to remember all the things that have to be “un-done.” To help you develop your own checklist, the following suggestions, though not applicable in every case, identify potential problem areas that warrant consideration.

Prepare the outdoor areas

Water, outdoor items, plants, and external fittings all need some attention when winterizing. Here are some things to consider.
Turn off the water at the main supply point. If you don't know how to do this, find out where the main (inside) shut off valve is. Turn off the supply line to the washing machine hose. These hoses are a bit flimsy and can burst while you're away. If nobody is using the home during the entire period of winter, make sure that the water supply is turned off completely at the mains.
Drain all water that can be drained. Drain spas, swimming pools and ponds of water.
Protect the garden and outdoor plants. Cover any plants that are frost intolerant and would benefit from covering.
- Trim shrubbery so doors and windows are not blocked from view (better security). Arrange to have the lawn mowed and shrubbery trimmed.
- If possible, cut tree limbs and branches that overhang the house—they offer rodents easy access to the home’s roof and eaves from which they have easier access to a home.
Bring in outdoor furniture, hammocks, seats, delicate garden ornamentation, hose pipes etc. - anything that you consider will not winter well under snow or prolonged cold should be stored indoors.
- Keep ladders inside or otherwise secured.
Block up any holes in the eaves or walls. Block anywhere that may provide an entry point to little furry creatures seeking warmth and home for winter; otherwise, you may have a surprise next spring that includes babies.
- Check that all holes and cracks in exterior walls and foundations and around pipes that penetrate the exterior walls are sealed; otherwise they are entry points for rodents and insects.
- Rodents and birds can also gain entry via stovepipes and chimneys so these must be secured as well. Shut your fireplace dampers and cap the chimneys. A #10 can (large coffee can) may be used to cap an open stovepipe (the kind that on top takes the shape of a T or an H), but a chimney should be capped with a permanent, stainless steel cap with wire mesh venting. Close flues and dampers.
Lock away all pleasure craft such as boats, ATVs, bicycles, canoes. kayaks, cars etc. in the garage or shed and ensure that the lock is strong. Block window views into this storage space.
Take all the trash out of your home before you leave, especially any food waste. Cover compost bins thoroughly. Move dead plant material away from the sides of the house to prevent moisture build-up (mildew problems) and possible fire fodder for the late spring in case you can't get back any earlier.
- Leave nothing outdoors that can be blown about by a strong wind or washed away by a lake or river overflowing its banks.

Fix the heating and plumbing

Turn off the main water-supply valve or stop the pump. If the furnace should fail on a very cold day, water in a pipe could freeze and burst the pipe. Open all faucets and drain all waterlines—empty or mainly empty pipes cannot burst from freezing water.
- Pipes can be drained at their low-point drain valves or, if there is insufficient slope to the lines, by opening a pipe junction. If unsure if all water has drained from pipes, use an air compressor to blow out all water pipes.
Turn down the heat, but don't turn it off. Keep it at about 58ºF/14ºC or so, in order to avoid problems with freezing plaster (which will crack in unsightly ways) and pipes.
- Unless you're using your summer vacation home for winter sports, you may want to consider not heating it at all if freezing problems are not an issue.
Drain. If you live in an area where freezing pipes can be a problem, drain toilets, water heater (turn off gas or electric supply first) and if on a well and pump system, the expansion tank. You'll also need to completely eliminate or dilute the water in drain traps by pouring an "RV" type antifreeze solution in them as directed by the instructions.
- RV antifreeze is commonly used to protect pipes from freezing in RVs and mobile homes; this antifreeze is a type that is safe for use in and around drinking water systems when used as directed. Never pour "regular" automotive antifreeze in the locations listed here.
- Close the sink and tub drains.
- If a house is to be vacant for a long time, you may prevent water in a toilet’s trap from evaporating (and thereby permitting sewer gases to enter the home) by raising the toilet’s lid and seat and covering the bowl with saran wrap.
- Read How to turn off the water supply to a toilet for more information.
Deal with septic systems. Drain the water storage tank and consult a neighbor or local plumber to learn if the septic system should also be drained. Turn off the water heater before you drain it. Drain water from a pump by using its drain plug. For dishwashers, refrigerators (with a water dispenser or an ice maker) and clothes washers, follow the manufacturer’s directions. Remove and empty any "whole house" or "in line" type filter canister. Remove any water filter inside refrigerator. If you find the task daunting, get a local plumber to do it for you.
Read How to winterize your evaporative cooler for instructions regarding your evaporative cooler.

Prepare the kitchen

Clean out the fridge and don't leave anything in there which is likely to go bad during the time you are away. If you have things in the freezer, empty it; don't leave anything in it in case the electricity is off for an extended period of time; you won't necessarily be aware and the food will have thawed and refrozen, which is very dangerous. If you must leave frozen food, here is one method for determining if your freezer has warmed during the winter: freeze a container of water solid, then place a coin on the surface of the ice; if the coin has sunk into the ice when you return, then the freezer warmed, letting the ice melt and then refreeze.
Remove all food. All foods should be removed so they don’t lure rodents and insects. Dry foods that remain should be locked in tin- or aluminum-lined cupboards or cabinets, and seeds and grains should be stored in metal containers with screw-on lids.
Clean the refrigerator and freezer thoroughly. Prop open their doors, the better to forestall mold and mildew (which like to grow in the dark) and their odors, which may transfer to the refrigerator’s plastic parts.
- You may have to turn off the icemaker and loosen refrigerator bulbs.
- To further thwart odors, place an open bag of charcoal on the inside of the open refrigerator.
Guard against insects and rodents. Wash kitchen trash containers and put away soap, sponges, candles and other possible sources of food for vermin. Spray a long-lasting insecticide along baseboards and under the sink. Place insect traps under the sink and on kitchen counters and use chemical rodent deterrents under the sink and in the garage, too.
Remove items that could freeze. In areas subject to freezing, remove all bottled liquids, such as mineral water, soda, beer and paint, because their containers may burst when their contents freeze. Empty water from jars, vases and even decorative indoor mini-fountains.

General

Clean everything. If linens, bedding, towels and the like remain, they should be washed or cleaned and then stored in boxes, preferably rodent-proof ones. Strip beds to allow the mattresses to air out. Open empty drawers and closets; use mothballs in the others. Remove all trash.
- Vacuum carpets and floors to ensure that no crumbs or other sources of food remain for vermin.
- In humid regions, use desiccants (water-absorbing material) in closets; most hardware stores sell them.
Cover furniture with sheets or cloths. If you are closing up a vacation home, cover the furniture to protect it from dust and light discoloration.
Remove all fire hazards. Dispose of or move potentially flammable items such as oily rags and stacked papers, before you leave.
Unplug all electronic and electrical appliances such as the TV, VCR, toasters, dryer, washer, etc. Any charging devices should also be unplugged. This is a good idea if there is an electrical storm so that no surges get to your computers, etc., and blow them out.
Ask a neighbor to be on the lookout for packages which may come to you by UPS, Fedex or any another service. Give the neighbor your phone number and ask them to call you if you get anything. Alternatively, they can keep packages for you in their home until you return.
- Arrange for indoor plants to be watered if necessary.
Pay all your bills before you go, or make arrangements to pay remotely by internet, through relatives or some other convenient and reliable means. If it's a vacation home, make sure that the municipality has the correct billing address for you to send rates bills etc. to during the time that you are away; you don't want a nasty summons because you forgot to inform them of your winter absence.
Make sure that your insurance coverage is adequate for being absent during winter. Due to the increased potential for something to go wrong (for example, burst water pipes, leaking gas heating systems, etc.), insurance companies can be tough on requirements. Ask about special requirements for vacation homes and for homes vacant due to traveling or snowbirding elsewhere.

Utilities

Consider turning off the electric power. Some experts suggest turning off electric power completely but this depends solely on local conditions. For example, in a region subject to freezing you may elect to leave the heating system on but at a lower temperature to avoid frost damage to the home’s interior and its contents. If you use an electronic alarm system, then continuous electric power is required (apart from back-up batteries).
Unplug. If you leave the electric power on, unplug electric appliances, including microwave ovens and TVs, to avoid the risk of fire in the event of a faulty switch or a rodent gnawing the wires.
Set your thermostat to a level adequate to keep the inside temperature above freezing and to keep things dry. If the home is located in a warm, damp climate, you should have a humidistat installed and set to maintain a reasonably dry interior.
Don't forget the gas. If there are gas appliances in the home that have been approved by the American Gas Association, they would have automatic shutdowns that will close the gas valves if their pilot lights go out. Such appliances may be left on if properly vented, but if in doubt, check the owner’s manuals. For long absences, some experts recommend shutting off gas hot-water heaters completely.

Security measures

Lock it up. High quality locks for your doors and windows are a must! Check that all your windows and doors are shut and locked. This includes checking the small attic, bathroom, and basement windows. Close skylights and ventilation shafts.
- If in a damp, humid climate, periodically lubricate pin tumbler locks with white lithium grease; using anything else will cause the mechanisms to gum up over time.
- Secure the doors. Strike plates and door hinges should be secured with wood screws at least three inches long.
- Close window shutters. Aside from enhancing security, shutters will, along with drapes, blinds and curtains, keep carpeting and fabrics from fading.
- Unplug garage door openers.
Make it look like someone is home. Buy a couple of light timers and set them up to turn on automatically in the evenings. If it's a summer vacation home, this may be less viable. Instead, have neighbors keep an eye on your home occasionally.
Do not leave valuables in a vacation home that may attract thieves. At the very least, move them out of the line of sight from windows.
- Take all small valuables with you.
Stop your mail. Do this online at USPS, Canada Post etc., using their hold mail sites; or, go into your local post office and ask them for a form. A small fee may apply.
- Stop any other routine deliveries as well.
Check back-up systems. If an electronic alarm system is used, make certain that back-up batteries (if any) are in good condition and able to provide coverage in the event of power interruption; you may want to consider other standby power options as well. If the alarm system is monitored, don’t forget to inform the security company of your date of departure and tell them where you can be reached in an emergency. Give the same information to the local police and fire departments.
Have someone make regular check-ins. If there is a neighbor who’ll remain in the area while you’re gone, try to work out an arrangement by which someone will come over every now and then to look the place over.
- If you can trust your neighbors completely, you may wish to leave them with a key for emergency entry if something should go wrong. Also leave them with your cellphone number, home phone number, e-mail address or any other alternative ways to reach you while you are living elsewhere or traveling.

Opening the home on your return

Use the checklist provided here to open up the home. For starters, open all windows and turn on the furnace fan to air out the home. Readjust the thermostat and humidistat. Close all drain valves and plugs; open the main water valve or turn on the pump. Flush waterlines.
Uncap stovepipes and open flues and dampers. Check the interior and exterior of your home carefully for signs of rodent and/or insect infestation, mildew and fungi.
Turn on gas and electric power.
Go down the checklist to put your home back to the way it was before you left it. And don’t forget to announce your return to everyone you had informed of your departure.

Video

Learn how to winterize your pond, stream or water garden.

Tips

Keep in mind that any water leaks which develop while you are away could run up your water bill significantly, and could also cause massive damage. This is especially true of a popped washing machine supply hose. Once these things burst, there is nothing to hold back the large stream of water which will start to flow. Turning off the water at the main is the best way to guard against such leaks.
If anything is certain about a log home—or about any home, for that matter—it’s the fact that you can’t just walk out the door and leave the place empty for months without having first taken some precautions. So be prepared to spend a few hours getting it ready before you and the family leave; your efforts will maintain the home’s value and ensure its continued enjoyment.
A log home company in Maine notes that in the event of an unexpected, heavy snowstorm in the state’s remote areas, hikers, hunters and snowmobilers can often be stranded for days. The company thinks it might be a good idea for a vacation home owner to leave some food and a supply of dry wood to help those people survive until help arrives. Of course, this means leaving the home unlocked unless there is another shelter nearby.

Warnings

Check your insurance policy carefully! There are often clauses to shock, such as a requirement to have someone checking your home regularly if you are more than 72 hours away from your home. This unfriendly little clause could void your insurance coverage if you haven't arranged for someone to check. Also, check the age of your heating system; if it is over a certain age, you may not be covered by insurance. Give yourself plenty of time to have it replaced, if necessary.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

Original source of article, http://www.loghomesnetwork.com. Shared with permission.

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Winterize a Vacant Home. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-11-28T07:00:00.015-06:00

Hello, hope you had a great Thanksgiving! How about a recipe?

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

I'm thinking that you may have a lot of turkey to get rid of after Thanksgiving, and Lois Elaine has a nice little recipe to help you out. Bisquick is a baking mixture that makes nice, quick drop biscuits, but also can be used in a variety of recipes. Today's recipe uses Bisquick in an Impossible Turkey Pie....

Lois Elaine's Bisquick Impossible Turkey Pie:

2 c. cut-up cooked turkey or chicken
1 jar (4 1/2 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
1/2 c. sliced green onions
1/2 t. salt
1 c. shredded natural Swiss cheese (4 oz)
1 1/2 c. milk
3/4 c. Bisquick
3 eggs

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease 10" pie plate. Sprinkle turkey, mushrooms, onion, salt and cheese in pie plate. Beat remaining ingredients until smooth, 15 seconds in blender on high or 1 minute with hand beater. Pour into pie plate. Bake until golden brown and knife inserted halfway between center and edges comes out clean, 30-35 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Makes 6 to 8 servings.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-11-25T07:00:00.001-06:00

The dogs are taking a few days off for Thanksgiving and want to send their best wishes to everyone!!

Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T07:00:00.003-06:00

I hope you all have a GREAT Thanksgiving! Be safe and be happy.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-11-21T07:00:00.002-06:00

Hello, hope you are having a great and warm November! How about another recipe?

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

The Mueller family loved the holiday season, and Lois Elaine used the holidays as an excuse to bake great cookies and desserts. As the holidays approach again this year, I will post more of Lois Elaine's Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes.

Nothing says holiday like the Green Bean Casserole. A table just wouldn't be complete without it! And, just in time for Thanksgiving, here it is....

Lois Elaine's Green Bean Casserole:

1 can Cream of Mushroom soup or Cream of Chicken soup
1/4 c. milk
1 t. soy sauce
1 can French Fried Onions
1 - 1lb. cans green beans
Dash of pepper

Stir soup, soy sauce and milk until smooth. Mix in 1/2 can onions, then mix in the beans and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees or until bubbling. With 5 minutes to go, throw on the rest of the onions and finish baking.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-11-18T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hello, hope you are having a great November! It's time for another dog....

This is Princess Leia again, the 10 foot tall poodle from Poteau. The Princess has just had her hair done and was anxious to have her picture made with her special Fall bandana....Very sharp, Leia!!

Blizzard Bites in a Jar

2011-11-16T07:00:00.002-06:00

Last week I posted instructions for Dreamsicle Cookies in a Jar. These recipes in a jar make great, economical holiday gifts and this week I am posting another one from the really interesting website organizedhome.com. This is one for people who aren't that crazy about cooking - all you have to do is melt some chocolate chips in the microwave and you're good to go!

Blizzard Bites in a Jar:

Ingredients:
1 c. RiceChex cereal
1 c. small pretzel twists
1/2 c. dry roasted peanuts
1/3 c. Craisins-type dried cranberries
1/3 c. coarsely-chopped dried pineapple
1 c. white chocolate chips
1 quart wide-mouth canning jar with lid and ring
1 small food storage bag

Layer the ingredients in the jar in the following manner: Rice Chex, pretzels, peanuts, dried cranberries and dried pineapple.
Put the white chocolate chips in the storage bag and place on top on the ingredients.
Put the lid and ring on the jar and attach the instruction tag.

Instruction Tag:
Remove the white chocolate chips from jar. Pour the other ingredients into a large bowl and mix.
Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then stir till melted. If more time is needed, check at 15 second intervals. Pour the chocolate over the other ingredients and mix very thoroughly. Spread in a single layer on wax paper and let cool. Break into smaller pieces and store in air-tight container or food storage bags.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-11-14T07:00:00.002-06:00

Hello, hope you are having a great Monday!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

The Mueller family loved the holiday season, and Lois Elaine used the holidays as an excuse to bake great cookies and desserts. As the holidays approach again this year, I will post more of Lois Elaine's Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes.

Today's recipe is Double-Layer Pumpkin Pie. Nothing says Thanksgiving like a terrific pumpkin pie, and this recipe puts a fancy little spin to the old traditional recipe. And you don't have to heat up your oven for this one!

Lois Elaine's Double-Layer Pumpkin Pie:

4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 c. plus 1 T. cold milk
1 T. sugar
1 tub (8 oz.) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1 prepared graham cracker crumb crust
1-16 oz. can of pumpkin
2 pkg (4 serving size) vanilla instant pudding
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. ginger
1/4 t. ground cloves

In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, 1 T. milk and sugar with wire whisk until smooth. Gently stir in 1 1/2 c. whipped topping. Spread on bottom crust.

In a second bowl, stir pumpkin, pudding mix and spices into remaining milk. Beat with wire whisk until well-blended. (Mixture will be thick). Spread over the cream cheese layer.

Refrigerate for 4 hours. Serve with the remaining whipped topping.

Makes about 8 servings.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-11-11T07:00:00.008-06:00

Hello and happy Friday, everyone! Here is a dog for you!

Jim and Mary's dog lives on a farm and believes he is a farmer. He might be - he rides the truck and tractor and supervises everything that goes on....

Dreamsicle Cookies in a Jar

2011-11-09T07:00:00.001-06:00

With our economy still trying to bounce back, many of us are cutting back a little this holiday season. One nice gift that just about everyone loves is the Recipe in a Jar. This is where most of the ingredients for a nice soup or dessert is layered in a quart jar and topped with a pretty lid. The instructions on how to prepare the recipe is attached. There are numerous recipes out there, and just about all of them sound really good. Today I am posting the instructions for Dreamsicle Cookies in a Jar, with thanks to the website organizedhome.com.

Dreamsicle Cookies in a Jar:

Ingredients:

1/2 c. Tang powdered orange drink

3/4 c. sugar

1 3/4 c. flour, sifted before measuring

1/2 t. baking soda

1/2 t. baking powder

1 quart wide-mouth canning jar with lid and ring

1 1/2 c. vanilla baking chips

Stir together the flour, baking soda and baking powder. Then layer the ingredients into the jar: Sugar, Tang, flour mixture then the vanilla chips. Tamp the first 3 layers firmly before adding the chips.

Here are the instructions to attach to the jar:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Empty jar into large bowl and add 1/2 c. softened butter, 1 slightly-beaten egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until well-blended.

Form dough into 1 inch balls and place 2 inches apart on slightly-greased baking sheet. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until cookies are slightly browned.

Makes about 2 1/2 dozen.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-11-07T07:00:00.001-06:00

Hello and happy November to everyone.

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Today's recipe for Bumsteads, as in Dagwood, the cartoon guy. Dagwood was notorious for building huge sandwiches with a variety of ingredients. Lois' version of Bumsteads were not quite as tall as his, but more elaborate than a normal bologna sandwich. They sound great! Lois' note says that she got this recipe in 1975 from Mary Lou.

Lois Elaine's Bumsteads:

1 7-oz. can of tuna
2 T. chopped onion
3 chopped hard-boiled eggs
2 T. chopped olives
1/4 pound cubed cheese
1/2 c. mayonnaise

Mix all together and put into 6 or 8 hot dog buns. Put in baking pan and cover with foil. Bake at 250 degrees for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-11-04T07:00:00.007-05:00

Hello and happy November to you! This is Friday, so it's time for a dog....

Jim and Mary's pooch is a happy, happy dog. He lives on a farm and chases rabbits all day - Who wouldn't be happy doing that??

How About Drying Some Apples?

2011-11-02T07:00:00.026-05:00

A friend of mine opened up a package of dried apples at a recent meeting. I know that apples are great for you, but they are hard to carry around and even more difficult to chomp on during a day-long meeting at work. Linda's apple chips had absolutely no ingredients except for the apple and a little lemon juice. This is as good as eating an apple and much handier. It got me thinking about drying some apples myself, and I'm planning on trying it in the next few days. I have a dehydrator, but I may choose to just use the oven.

In case you are interested in trying this for yourself, here are instructions for drying apples in an oven....

Tart apples hold their shape better than sweet ones. I hear that Granny Smiths are excellent for drying.

While you peel, core and slice your apples, you will want to rest the slices in a bowl of water with some lemon juice or Fruit Fresh to keep them from turning brown. The packaged apple chips that I saw had not been peeled, so I guess you can just leave the peel on if you want. Slice the apples VERY thin and place them on a cookie sheet.

Cook them at a low temperature, about 250 degrees, for 45 minutes or until crisp. Store in a container in a dry place. Good luck!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-10-31T07:00:00.002-05:00

How is your Halloween Monday going? I have a feeling it's going to be a great week!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.
Today we have a Greek Casserole. This is a casserole that will feed a family or would do fine as a pot-luck dish. Not sure what makes it "Greek", but it sounds delicious!

Lois Elaine's Greek Casserole:

1 pound ground chuck
1 c. water
2 T. vegetable (or canola) oil
1/4 t. salt
1 t. sage
1/8 t. pepper
4 c. thickly-sliced potatoes
1 can (3 1/2 oz) French-fried onions
1 pkg dry spaghetti sauce mix
1 3/4 c. water

In frying pan, brown meat with oil and sage. Cook potatoes in 1 c. boiling water in a covered saucepan for 5 minutes to par-boil. Drain. Toss with salt and pepper and a half can of the fried onions. Prepare sauce mix, using 1 3/4 c. water according to directions on package. Arrange layers of potatoes, meat and sauce in a 2 quart and buttered casserole dish, ending with sauce. Cover dish and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, add remaining onions and bake 5 minutes longer.
Makes 6 to 8 servings.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-10-28T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hello, hope your month is going great! We are coming up on Halloween, and we have a devil for you today.

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer thinks that her costume is the best, and will snag her lots and lots of bones for her Halloween treat bag this year....She might be right!

Some Nice Ways To Handle Stress, Part 5

2011-10-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, hope your are having a great day! Here is the fifth and final part of some quick and easy ways to cope with stress.

1. Throw a paper airplane.
2. Exercise every day.
3. Get to work early.
4. Clean out one closet.
5. Take a different route to work.
6. Leave work early (with permission)
7. Remember you always have options.
8. Quit trying to fix other people.
9. Get enough sleep.
10. Praise other people.

And remember to relax - take one day at a time. You have the rest of your life to live!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-10-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, happy Monday! Time for another recipe....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

With the holidays coming up, it's never too early to start thinking about what cookies you will bake this holiday season. Nothing says "welcome" like a platter of home-made cookies, and the Mueller family was blessed with a mother who knew how to bake a cookie! This week we will feature very easy Egg White Cookies...

Lois Elaine's Egg White Cookies:

2 egg whites, beaten very stiff
1 c. powdered sugar
1 T. flour
1 c. chopped nuts
1 c. chopped dates

Add the ingredients to the egg whites and mix well. Let stand 5 minutes. Drop by small teaspoons on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 300 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes.
Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-10-21T07:00:00.012-05:00

Happy Friday, everyone - Here is a dog for your consideration....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer loves being around the water. It reminds her of a nice, big, juicy fish, which she is thinking of right now....

Some Nice Ways To Handle Stress, Part 4

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, hope your Wednesday is going great. Here is the fourth part of a quick and easy set of ideas to lessen your stress.

1. Strive for excellence, not perfection.
2. Look at a work of art.
3. Maintain your weight.
4. Plant a tree.
5. Stand up and stretch.
6. Always have a Plan B.
7. Learn a new doodle.
8. Learn to meet your own needs.
9. Become a better listener.
10. Know your limitations and let others know them too.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-10-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

What a great Monday! Time for a Lois Elaine recipe!!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Before the advent of canned cake frostings, people made their own. Imagine that! These frostings were as healthy as cake frostings can be, with no preservatives or aluminum cans. With the comeback of home cooking, home-made cake frostings are being featured once again. It's about time. Here is another frosting from Lois Elaine's recipe box....

Lois Elaine's Caramel Frosting:

1/2 c. butter
1 c. packed brown sugar
1/4 c. milk
1 1/2 c. powdered sugar

Melt butter in pan and add brown sugar. Boil over low heat, stirring constantly for 2 minutes.
Add milk, bring to a boil again, stirring constantly, then remove from heat.
Cool and add the powdered sugar. Stir until mixed thoroughly, then spread on cooled cake.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-10-14T07:00:00.002-05:00

TGIF! Here are two dogs to start off your week-end on a great note.

Mary Ann and Charlie Brown are the best of friends. Here they are taking a break and watching their favorite show - Dog the Bounty Hunter.

Some Nice Ways To Handle Stress, Part 3

2011-10-12T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, happy Wednesday everyone! Here is part 3 of some great and easy ways to lessen the stress in your life.

1. Stop thinking tomorrow will be a better today.
2. Have goals for yourself.
3. Say hello to a stranger.
4. Look up at the stars.
5. Practice breathing slowly.
6. Do brand new things.
7. Stop a bad habit.
8. Take stock of your achievements.
9. Do it today.
10. Strive for excellence.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-10-10T07:00:00.036-05:00

Hello, happy Monday to you all! It's raining in Oklahoma, and we are happy for it - It's been a long, dry summer....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Today's recipe is Cherry Torte. Lois noted on her recipe card that it came from her friend, Etta Kistler. Michigan is known for its great cherry trees, and the Mueller family grew up on cherry desserts. Everyone in Michigan knows that July is cherry season!

Lois Elaine's Cherry Torte:

28 soda crackers
1/4 c. melted oleo (butter or butter substitute)
3 egg white, beaten stiff
1/2 t. cream of tartar
3/4 c. white sugar
1/2 t. vanilla
1 can cherry pie filling

Crumble together the crackers and butter and press into a pan. Let it sit in the oven for a little bit, then sit aside.
Mix the rest of the ingredients (except for the pie filling) together and spread over the cracker mixture in the pan. Bake 30 minutes at 325 degrees.
Spread the pie filling over the cooled torte and serve with whipped cream.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-10-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello, hope you are having a terrific day! Here is a dog for your viewing pleasure.....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer smirks a lot, smiles quite a bit and once in a while breaks out in a huge, tongue-waving laugh....

Some Nice Ways To Handle Stress, Part 2

2011-10-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello and hope you are having a terrific Autumn! Here is the second part of some quick and easy ways to relieve stress in your life....

1. Break large tasks into bite-sized pieces.
2. Look at problems as challenges.
3. Smile more.
4. Be prepared for rain and snow.
5. Schedule some play time into every day.
6. Avoid tight-fitting clothes.
7. Take a bubble bath.
8. Believe in you.
9. Visualize yourself winning.
10. Develop a sense of humor.

More to come....

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-10-03T07:00:00.005-05:00

Hello....Glad the weather is finally a little cooler and hoping that La Nina moves out fast!

Doing something a little different today - I'm going to take a one-week break from Lois Elaine's recipes of the 1960's, but her recipes will be back next week!

A friend sent this terrific idea for preparing corn on the cob when you need a lot of it, or when you go camping. It was so good that I wanted to post it now and not wait - so here it is....

Camping Corn on the Cob:

This is a great recipe for large picnics when you don't have enough room on your stove to have a bunch of pots of water with corn. You can let the corn sit all day and it tastes great.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

boiling water
12 ears of corn
cooler

Preparation:

Boil water. Dump water into a clean empty cooler. Put raw corn on the cob into the cooler. Cover cooler for at least 30 min. Can be left all day, corn will stay hot in the cooler. Drain out water and eat.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-09-30T07:00:00.002-05:00

Friday, lovely Friday....The weekend is almost here and I am sooooo happy! I can't lose my head and forget the Friday Dog Blog, though....Here is a cute one for your viewing pleasure....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer loves to chase birds and ducks, and pull out tailfeathers when possible, much to the dismay of her human companions. When around water, she is always on the lookout for a lazy duck or a lolling goose....

Some Nice Ways To Handle Stress, Part 1

2011-09-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello and happy Wednesday! With all of the bad news, disasters, crazy politicians and diving stock markets these days, some of us may be dealing with more stress than usual. A friend of mine recently sent an article (thanks, Vicki!) that had some practical and easy ways to ease your stress levels. Here is part 1....

1. Get up 15 minutes earlier.
2. Prepare for the morning the night before.
3. Don't rely on your memory - write things down.
4. Repair things don't work properly.
5. Make duplicate keys.
6. Say "no" more often.
7. Set priorities in your life.
8. Avoid negative people.
9. Make copies of important papers.
10. Ask for help with jobs that you don't like.

Aren't those easy? Try them out today and see if they work!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-09-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, and happy Fall Monday! How about a recipe?????

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

The Muellers were German, not Italian, but Lois Elaine wasn't stuck in a rut. She tried all kinds of recipes, and a family favorite was her Lasagna. She actually got this recipe from her sister, Clarice. Today we are featuring Lois Elaine's (and Clarice's) Lasagna recipe.....

Lois Elaine's Lasagna:
Sauce:
1 1/2 pound ground beef
2 cans tomato sauce
1 can tomato soup
onion flakes
oregano
sweet basil

Filling:
1/2 package lasagna noodles
1 pound (large container) large curd cottage cheese
1 egg
parsley flakes
mozzarella cheese (1 package)
parmesan cheese

Brown the beef and add the other sauce ingredients plus a little water. Let simmer while you are preparing the other ingredients.

Cook and drain the noodles. In a small bowl, mix cottage cheese, egg and parsley flakes.

Lay it all out in a large cake pan. Start with a layer of 1/3 of the sauce, 1/3 of the noodles, 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese, 1/3 of the cottage cheese mixture and a little parmesan cheese. Do this until the ingredients are gone, but leave enough sauce to end with it.

Bake at 375 degrees for 1 or 1 1/2 hours, until everything is nice and bubbly.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-09-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, and what a great Friday we are having! Here is a pooch for your Friday Dog Blog....

We asked Sofi the Talking Schnauzer to give us her best and cutest pose with a great smile. Here it is....

Do We Applaud Executions Now?

2011-09-21T07:00:00.063-05:00

A couple of years ago I published my first post lamenting how rude our country had become. This was during the infamous Town Hall meetings, where red-faced, screaming people disrupted the meetings and shouted down everyone who disagreed with them. Unbeknownst to me, this was only the beginning of the decline and fall of our good sense.

The Tea Party arose, thanks in large part to the Town Hall meetings. This is not a political blog, but sometimes things are intertwined, as is the case with our losing our humanity and politics. The political arena has given a pulpit and excuse for people to express their "anger", and those angry people are the ones given a voice on the local and national news.

The Town Hall meetings led to very large Tea Party rallies, where citizens were empowered to tote large signs with shockingly racist pictures and commentary on the President of the United States. Some also encouraged violence and a takeover of our country. I believe that most of the Americans who watched this just shook their heads, at least I hope so.

Over the months, things have gotten worse. Watching the recent Republican debate, it was sad to hear the ovation when a candidate from Texas was asked about the fact that Texas executes more humans than any other state in the union. That's how low we have finally sunk - applauding the death of others. At a later debate another question received cheers - this one was whether a candidate would allow a young person to die if he was required to buy insurance but didn't.

One thing cheered me this past week - the video showing a group of people lifting a burning car to rescue a young guy who was thrown off his motorcycle after a wreck. These people put themselves at risk to save a stranger's life. Yes, there is still some compassion, courage and bravery left in America. It's not in the political blogs, it's not at the debates, it's not at the Tea Party rallies. It's within ordinary citizens who, like most of us, are sick and saddened by seeing the daily parade of hate on the internet and television. Whether courage and compassion can defeat hate and anger in the battle for our country is yet to be seen. I know which side I'm on....

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-09-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello - I love September. Still hot, but at least there's a promise of cooler weather to come....It's Monday, so it's time for another Lois Elaine recipe!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

If your garden has survived this sweltering summer, it is probably only producing squash by now. If you planted zucchini, you more than likely have it running out your ears. A favorite way to get more healthy squash into a family's diet is to put it into delicious bread, which is actually more like delicious cake. Lois Elaine was no different in the 1960's, and she used this recipe for Zucchini Bread.....

Lois Elaine's Zucchini Bread:

Makes 3 loaves....

Mix:
3 eggs
1 c. oil (vegetable, canola, etc)
1 t. salt
1 t. baking soda
2 c. brown sugar
1/4 t. baking powder
3 t. vanilla
2 t. ground cinnamon
1 T. molasses
1 t. pie spice
4 c. flour
3 c. grated zucchini
1/2 c. walnut meats

Pour into 3 oiled loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. (Wrap and freeze the loaves that you aren't going to eat immediately).

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-09-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello - We are finally turning the corner on a long, hot summer and hoping for no more weather records broken for a long time! Here are two very terrific dogs for your Friday Dog Blog...

Princess Leia, the 10 foot tall poodle from Poteau, is on a mission. She has decided to challenge every dog she meets to a footrace in an effort to prove that no one is swifter than the Princess. Here she is in action, racing against another hapless victim. Like Secretariat, she took charge in the final turn. The Princess ended up beating the brown pooch by 14 10-foot-tall poodle lengths!

They Didn't Have That Green Thing Back Then

2011-09-14T07:00:00.002-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMkUdFNeJQQ

Hello - Hope you are having a great Wednesday! I am providing a You Tube link today, hope it works....

This video drives home the point that we do much more damage to the environment today than our parents and grandparents did. It's pretty shocking the difference in the way of life between generations!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-09-12T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, we are headed toward autumn, and not a bit too soon. We are also headed toward another great recipe!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

How about a cookie recipe today? This recipe card looks a little different than most of Lois Elaine's, and the writing is different as well. Obviously this recipe came from a friend or relative whose identity is forever lost to time....

Lois Elaine's Molasses Cookies:

3 c. shortening (or butter or butter substitute)
4 c. sugar
1 c. molasses syrup
4 eggs
4 t. baking soda
2 t. salt
1 t. ground cloves
1 t. ground ginger
4 t. cinnamon
8 c. flour
powdered sugar

Combine ingredients. It's best chilled overnight. Roll into balls and roll in powdered sugar.

Bake 10 minutes at 375 degrees.

You can put jelly, nuts or a raisin in the center of each, if desired.

(Note from me: I haven't tried this recipe, but I have a feeling it makes a LOT of cookies! You might try cutting it in half unless you are feeding an army.)

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-09-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello and happy autumn Friday to you all. Here is a feisty dog for your Friday Dog Blog....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer has but one thing to say today....Go Sooners!

Ginger Is An Effective Treatment for Ailments

2011-09-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, hope your Wednesday is going good.

Today we will look at the wonder spice - ginger - and its healing qualities. Ginger is actually an herb, and its chemical structure has proved very effective in treating certain ailments. It has been used in China and India for over 2,000 years, but we know it more as the principle flavoring in gingerbread, gingersnap cookies and the gingerbread coffee cake that you see on the left.

Ginger is readily available - it comes from fresh or dried ginger root or from distillation of the oil in the root by steam. You can purchase ginger root in some groceries and health food stores, but you can make it easy on yourself and purchase ginger capsules or ginger oil at your favorite chain drug store. If you do purchase the root, it can be prepared as a steeped tea, making it easy to consume. Of course, it is a spice and can be purchased as such and used to flavor foods (also ginger ale), but be aware that when you eat one ginger snap, less than 1% of it is ginger.

The standard dose of ginger is between 75 and 2,000 mg per day, in divided doses, with food.

The best and most study-supported use of ginger is for stomach issues. It is effective in combating colic, upset stomach, morning sickness, motion sickness, gas, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting after surgery, and nausea caused by cancer treatments. It also reduces dizziness and there is some evidence that it may reduce rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis pain, but it takes months to begin its effectiveness in these areas. There is also some evidence that ginger may protect against Alzheimer's by protecting brain cells.

Ginger helps stomach conditions by suppressing gastric contractions and stimulating the flow of gastric secretions, bile and saliva, and in this area, it is truly a wonder spice!

The Monday Recipe Blow

2011-09-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

How is your Monday going so far? Here is a recipe to make it even better!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Many of Lois Elaine's dessert recipes feature cherries. Why? The Muellers were from Michigan, which happens to produce some of the country's best cherries, so the family ate a lot of them. This recipe, for Cherry Cheese Bars, calls for canned cherry pie filling, so you can make this recipe any time of the year, in any part of the world!

Lois Elaine's Cherry Cheese Bars:

Crust:
1 c. walnuts, divided
1 1/4 c. flour
1/2 c. firmly-packed brown sugar
1/2 c. butter-flavored Crisco (or butter, or butter substitute)
1/2 c. flaked cococut

Filling:
1 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/3 c. sugar
1 egg
1 t. vanilla
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottom of a 13x 9" pan. Chop 1/2 c. of the walnuts for the topping. Set aside. Chop the remaining 1/2 cup of walnuts finely.

For crust:
Combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in Crisco until fine crumbs form. Add 1/2 c. nuts and coconut. Mix well. Remove 1/2 c. of mixture and set it aside. Press the remaining crumbs in the bottom of the pan. Bake 12 to 15 minutes.

Filling:
Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla until smooth. Spread over hot baked crust and return to oven. Bake 10 minutes longer. Spread cherry filling over cheese layer. Combine nuts and remaining crumbs and sprinkle evenly over cherries. Return to oven and bake 15 minutes more. Cool and cut into 24 bars.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-09-02T07:00:00.001-05:00

Another Friday rolls around, and another dog rolls around....Here's a scaredy-cat dog for our Dog Blog....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer is usually so brave! Who would think that a simple dock on an admittedly very large lake in Michigan could make her flatten her ears and tuck her 1 inch tail? She'll stand toe to toe with a bulldog twice her size, but cowers in fear at a little (well, a lot of) water. Go figure!

Do You Have A Job Interview?

2011-08-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello....In this economy, many of us are seeking employment, and it's a tough row to hoe out there. The competition is fierce, and companies can pick and choose. So, how do you get them to pick and choose YOU? I ran across some tips from a government website recently, and they actually look pretty good. If you are out of work, or afraid that you will be at some point, it would be worth perusing this little article.

Here is the website from the Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov

In my job, I hire about 10-15 people every year. Although I agree with most of the tips to follow, I will put some comments in parentheses and you are welcome to ignore them!

Job Interview Tips
An interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to an employer, so it pays to be well prepared. The following information provides some helpful hints.
Preparation:

Learn about the organization.
Have a specific job or jobs in mind.
Review your qualifications for the job.
Be ready to briefly describe your experience, showing how it relates it the job.
Be ready to answer broad questions, such as "Why should I hire you?" "Why do you want this job?" "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
Practice an interview with a friend or relative.

Personal appearance:

Be well groomed.
Dress appropriately.
Do not chew gum or smoke.

The interview:

Be early.
Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a firm handshake.
Use good manners with everyone you meet.
Relax and answer each question concisely.
Use proper English—avoid slang.
Be cooperative and enthusiastic.
Use body language to show interest—use eye contact and don’t slouch.
Ask questions about the position and the organization, but avoid questions whose answers can easily be found on the company Web site.
Also avoid asking questions about salary and benefits unless a job offer is made.
Thank the interviewer when you leave and shake hands.
Send a short thank you note following the interview.
(Use some humor, but not too much. Smile a lot)
(No matter how nervous you are, do not talk too much - answer the questions but don't ramble on)
(And if you ARE nervous, let the interviewers know (with a smile).

Information to bring to an interview:

Social Security card.
Government-issued identification (driver’s license).
Resume or application. Although not all employers require a resume, you should be able to furnish the interviewer information about your education, training, and previous employment.
References. Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good reference. Try to avoid using relatives as references. (The best references are work-related, especially former supervisors).
Transcripts. Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-08-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello....What a great Monday we are having, and now we get a recipe, too!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Last week we featured Lois Elaine's recipe for peach cobbler, and this week we are posting the pastry portion of another summer favorite, Strawberry Shortcake. This recipe is for a biscuit-type pastry. Makes my mouth water just thinking about it!

Lois Elaine's Shortcake for Strawberries:

Sift together in a bowl:
3 c. flour
3 1/4 t. baking powder
1 1/4 t. salt
2 T. sugar

Mix in:
1/2 c. shortening (or butter or butter substitute) until crumbly.

Add 1 beaten egg and 2/3 c. plus 2 T. of milk, stirring with a fork to make a soft dough. Knead 15 to 20 times on lightly-floured board. Pat dough into a greased round 9" layer cake pan evenly with fingers and bake at 450 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-08-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, and TGIF! AND, thank goodness we have a dog for our Dog Blog!

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer is feeling shy these days - it must be the heat. When asked to pose for a nice picture in the woods, she pulled a Greta Garbo - "I want to be alone...."

Oh, These Oklahoma Stories!

2011-08-24T07:00:00.020-05:00

Hello and happy Wednesday! I love old ghost stories, and I came across this one the other day on the website http://www.americanfolklore.net

So, here we go....

You Can't Get Out

A Oklahoma Ghost Story
retold by
S. E. Schlosser

One dark, windy night, the town drunk was meandering his way home after the bar closed. Somehow he got turned around and ended up walking through the churchyard instead of taking the road home.

The wind picked up and he thought he could hear a voice calling his name. Suddenly, the ground opened up in front of him, and he fell down, down into an open grave! He could hear the voice clearer now, calling to him. He knew it was the devil, coming for him just like the preacher said, on account of him being the town drunk.
The hole was very deep and inside it was pitch black. His eyes adjusted to the darkness after a few moments, and he made out a form sitting in the darkness with him. It called his name, and he scrambled away in fear, trying to climb out of that terrible grave. Then the figure spoke. "You can't get out," it said.

The drunk gave a shout of pure terror and leapt straight up more than six feet. He caught the edge of the hole in his hands, scrambled out, and ran for home as fast as he could go.

Inside the open grave, his neighbor Charlie sighed in resignation. He'd fallen into the hole a few minutes before his friend and had thought that together they might help each other climb out. Now he was going to have to wait until morning and get the mortician to bring him a ladder.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-08-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello....Are we out of the Dog Days yet????? Well, at least it's time for another recipe....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Oklahoma produces great peaches, particularly in the Stratford and Porter areas, but this year the pickin's were pretty slim. For anyone anywhere who were lucky enough to snag and freeze some fresh peaches, here is a great Lois Elaine recipe for Peach Cobbler!

Lois Elaine's Peach Cobbler:

Filling:
1 c. sugar
2 T. cornstarch
1/2 t. cinnamon
1 c. water
2 T. butter (or butter substitute)
5 c. sliced, pared fresh peaches

Biscuit Topping:
1 1/2 c. biscuit mix (Bisquick, for example)
4 T. sugar
2/3 c. light cream
2 T. grated lemon peel

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Blend sugar, cornstarch and cinnamon in a 2 qt. saucepan; add water. Bring to boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add butter and peaches. Pour into a shallow baking dish. Combine biscuit mix and 2 T. sugar; blend in cream with a fork. Drop dough in 6 mounds around the edge of the baking dish. Combine the 2 remaining T. of sugar and the lemon peel. Sprinkle on the dough.

Bake 25 minutes or until peaches are tender and biscuits are golden brown. Serve warm with plain or whipped cream (or vanilla ice cream!)

Makes 6 servings.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-08-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Another Friday rolls around, and another dog pops up....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer entertains frequently during the summer, but like Archie Bunker, she has her chair and you had better not try to sit in it or you get "the look"....

How To Make A Perfect Pie Crust

2011-08-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, hope you are staying cool on this hot, hot Wednesday. In Oklahoma we are in the midst of a terrible heat wave and drought, I am trying to think cool thoughts but it doesn't seem to be working.
Recently I made a couple of pies - a lucious chocolate pie and a buttermilk pie (picture on the left), and I wished that I could make a perfect pie crust. I started researching and came up with what appears to be pretty good directions for a nice, flaky pie crust. Thought I would share it with you today, but I'm not planning on heating up my oven again any time soon to try it out!

How To Make The Perfect Pie Crust:

With a home-made pie, the crust can make it or break it. Yes, the filling is important, but a bad or tough crust can turn a great pie bad in the blink of an eye. Most of us know the 4 absolutely essential ingredients of pie crust - flour, some kind of fat, a liquid and salt. The flakiness of the crust often depends upon the type and condition of the fat, and the salt serves to brown the crust nicely and also enhances the flavor a bit.

(Note: I also use a tablespoon of sugar and a half-tablespoon of vinegar in my crusts).

Whatever fat you use (lard, butter, shortening or butter substitute), it must be chilled before you start. You do not want the fat to disappear into the flour, so make sure it is nice and cold. After you mix the dry ingredients together, then add the fat. I cut mine into small pieces and pinch the fat into the mix with my hands, but you can also use a pastry cutter. Mix or cut it until the mixture has pea-sized lumps.

The water needs to be chilled or, even better, ice water, and then add it, just a little at a time, into the dry mix. Stir it with a fork until it can form a packed ball. Remember, the more you handle it, the less tender and flaky your crust will be, because the fat will become blended into the mix and you want to leave as many little fat balls as you can.

If you are making a one-crust pie, roll the mixture into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, and it can be longer if you need it to be. This is where I always fall short - I never seem to have enough time to let the dough chill for 30 minutes! But here's why you should always do it - It goes back to that fat again - chilling the dough keeps the fat from absorbing into the flour when you roll it out, and, of course, makes your crust light and flaky.

Remove the dough from the fridge and flatten it as much as possible with your hands. Dust it a little with flour before placing it on a clean dry surface (wax paper is good) that is also dusted with flour. Start rolling at the center and roll outwards. For less mess, you can put a sheet of wax paper on the top of the dough, too. It helps to have a heavy rolling pin like the kind your grandmother used. My aunt uses a huge, antique wine bottle as her pin. I prefer a black, non-stick pin that you cool off in the freezer before using.

Roll the dough to about 1/4 to 1/8 inches thick and at least 4 inches bigger than your pie pan. Fold your dough in half, then in quarters. Carefully pick it up and put it in your pan where the center of the dough is in the center of your pan, then unfold it. Don't be afraid to patch any cracks or holes with extra dough.

Press the crust firmly into the pan. (I use an old glass Pyrex pie pan, and I love it). If you don't press, you risk unsightly bubbles in the finished product. Trim the extra dough, but leave at least a half inch for fluting the edges.

There you have it - directions for the perfect pie crust!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-08-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello, and happy Monday to you! This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Remember Chicken Cacciatore? It was wildly popular in the '60's, and still tasty today! Here is Lois' recipe for Chicken Cacciatore for Four....

Lois Elaine's Chicken Cacciatore:

2 1/2 pounds frying chicken (pieces)
1/4 c. flour
1 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1/4 c. salad oil (vegetable, canola, etc)
14 1/2 oz. can of tomatoes
6 oz. can of tomato paste
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/4 c. chopped green peppers
4 oz. can of mushrooms plus the liquid
1 clove garlic, crushed
1/2 c. water
1/4 t. thyme
1 bay leaf

Dip chicken in flour, salt and papper mixture. Brown in oil in a skillet. Combine remaining ingredients, stirring to break the tomatoes. Pour over chicken. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Uncover and simmer for 30 minutes longer. Remove chicken and remove and discard the bay leaf. Thicken the sauce and serve over rice or noodles.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-08-12T07:00:00.010-05:00

What a great, hot Friday we are having! Here's a great, hot dog, just for you....

Cindy's Charlie Brown loves the dog days of summer. He pulls out his favorite pillow and curls up in front of the air conditioner. All summer long......That's why they call it the dog days, right?

For Dog Lovers Everywhere!

2011-08-10T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello, hope you are keeping cool during this record-setting summer! My friend Heidi sent me this old story, and it reminded me how much I love it. I have heard this story in various versions, and even saw it played out on an old episode of The Twilight Zone. It never loses its message that dogs are wonderful companions and friends....So, here it is:

A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead.

He then remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead now for many years. He wondered where the road was now leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight.

When he was standing before it he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man sitting at a desk to one side.

When he was close enough, he called out, 'Excuse me, where are we?'

This is Heaven, sir, the man answered.

Wow! Sure is beautiful. Would you happen to have some water? the man asked.

Of course, sir. Come right in, and I'll have some ice water brought right up for you immediately.

The man gestured, and the big gate began to open.

Can my friend, gesturing toward his dog, 'come in, too?' the traveler asked.

I'm sorry, sir, but we don't accept pets.

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog.

After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. Indeed, there wasn't even any fence to protect the property.

As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book..

Excuse me! he called to the man. 'Do you have any water?

Yeah, sure, there's a old pump over there, come on in.

How about my friend here? the traveler gestured to the dog.

There should be a bowl by the pump.

They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it on the ground.

The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave some to the dog.

When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.

What do you call this place?' the traveler asked.

This is Heaven, he answered.

Well, that's confusing, the traveler said. The man down the road said that was Heaven, too.

Oh, you mean the fancy place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's actually hell.

Doesn't it make you mad at them to be using the name 'heaven' there like that?

No, we're just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-08-08T07:00:00.003-05:00

Hello - hope you are staying nice and cool this summer! Here is another Lois Elaine recipe for you....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

In the 1950's and 60's people didn't get their cake frosting from a can - they made it from scratch. And that's the way serious cooks still do it. I've published a few of Lois Elaine's frosting recipes in the past few months, and here is another one for a vanilla frosting. The recipe card notes that this comes from Lois Elaine's sister, Clarice....

Lois Elaine's Frosting:

1 c. butter
1 c. sugar
1 egg white, beaten
1 t. vanilla
2/3 c. milk

Cream the butter and sugar. Add egg white and vanilla and beat well. Scald milk and add that to the mix, slowly. Beat well.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-08-05T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hope your Friday is a great one! Time for the Friday Dog Blog....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer is letting her shirt do the talking today.....

Some Great Ideas For The Lowly Cucumber, Part II

2011-08-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here are ideas 7-13 for your garden bounty of cucumbers. Thanks to Barb, who facebooked these hints to me, and anankkml for the photo!

More Ideas for Cucumbers:

7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge?

Cucumbers have been used for centuries and often by European trappers, traders and explorers for quick meals to thwart off starvation.

8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don't have enough time to polish your shoes?

Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe. Its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water.

9. Need to fix a squeaky hinge?

Take a cucumber slice and rub it along the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!

10. Stressed out and don't have time for a massage, facial or visit to the spa?

Cut up an entire cucumber and place it in a boiling pot of water. The chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber with react with the boiling water and be released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has been shown the reduce stress in new mothers and college students during final exams.

11. Just finished a business lunch and realize you don't have gum or mints?

Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath. The phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

12. Looking for a 'green' way to clean your taps, sinks or stainless steel?

Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the surface you want to clean; not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the shine, but it won't leave streaks and won't harm you fingers or fingernails while you clean.

13. Using a pen and made a mistake?

Take the outside of the cucumber and slowly use it to erase the pen writing. Also works great on crayons and markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-08-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, and happy Monday to you! Another Lois Elaine recipe is primed and ready to go, just for you....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

Even the cute name for these chocolate cookies is great - Try these, you'll like them!

Lois Elaine's Chocolate Snappers:

1 c. sugar
3/4 c. soft butter
1 egg
1/4 c. corn syrup
2 envelopes Nestle Choco-Bake (substitute powdered chocolate)
1 3/4 c. sifted flour
2 t. baking soda
1 t. cinnamon
1/4 t. salt

Combine in bowl the sugar, butter and egg. Beat till creamy. Stir in corn syrup and powdered chocolate. Stir in flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.

Shape into balls, using 1 level T. for each ball. Roll in sugar and place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Let stand a few minutes before removing from pan. Makes about 3 dozen 3" cookies.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-07-29T07:00:00.008-05:00

Hello - Happy Hot Friday - Here's a hot dog, just for you....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer is having a great vacation. She's quite the athlete, and she's braving the heat to take a run by the beach. She has to maintain that rock-hard ten-pound body, after all....

Some Great Ideas For The Lowly Cucumber

2011-07-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, hope you are having a great week! Lots of us planted big gardens in the spring with high hopes, but for some of us the extreme heat has won out. If you are lucky enough to have a bountiful crop of cucumbers, I have some ideas for you, thanks to my friend Barb, who facebooked them to me... So, without further delay, here are some terrific ways to use your cukes....(More next week)

The humble cucumber is actually a little gem. And not just for its nutritional benefits...

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day

Just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

2. Feeling tired in the afternoon? Put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a cucumber

Cucumbers are a good source of B vitamins and carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower?

Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror: it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds?

Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminum to give off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool?

Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes. The phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!

6. Want to avoid a hangover or terrible headache?

Eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients the body has lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, and avoiding both a hangover and headache!

(Photo by anankkml)

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-07-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

It's going to be a great summer! Here is a recipe to start your week....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

We love one-pot meals in this fast-paced world of today, with our crockpots and microwaves, but one-pot meals existed in the 1960's as well. Here is an example....

Lois Elaine's One Pot Meal:

1 pound ground beef
1 chopped onion
1 chopped green pepper
3 stlks chopped celery
6 or 8 potatoes, sliced
1 #2 size can of tomatoes

Do not pre-cook the ground beef. Combine ingredients with a little salt and pepper and 1 c. water in a small roaster or baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the potatoes are done.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-07-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello and happy hot Friday! Here is a terrific dog, just for you!

Princess Leia, the 10 foot tall poodle from Poteau, is wondering if we are in the dog days of summer yet. She kind of thinks we are....

It's HOT here in Oklahoma!!

2011-07-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

Wow, this has been the hottest July I can remember. It's like a blast furnace anytime you walk outside, with no end in sight. Thank goodness for air conditioning - It's really too hot to do anything on the weekends except sit on the couch.

For those few who still claim that global climate change is a hoax, even after the extreme weather/earth events of the past few years, I can only say that I respectfully disagree.

I hear that this heat is encompassing the entire United States, even the "up north" states, where homes with air conditioning are not as prevalant. We have the dog days of August to look forward to, and please, everyone, take heat precautions.

Wear light, loose clothing whenever possible, less is better. Use sunscreen and never get far away from an air conditioned, cool area. This is not the time for a 2 hour hike, away from civilization! Sweating is good in extreme heat, not sweating is a sign that something is wrong and that you need to get cool very quickly.

Save the stenuous, outdoor activities for autumn and, in Oklahoma, even winter.

A great way to cool off quickly when you come from outside is to wash your face, arms and legs with a washcloth soaked in cold water.

Stay safe, stay cool and remember that the heat will eventually end.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-07-18T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello and how is your Monday coming along? Here is another tasty recipe to go with it.

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

This is a unique, 4 layer pie that can be either chocolate or lemon, your choice.

Lois Elaine's Chocolate or Lemon Dessert:

Crust:
1 1/2 c. flour
1 stick butter, softened
1/2 c. chopped nuts

Mix and press in a 9x13" pan and bake 15 minutes at 375 degrees. Cool.

2nd layer:
1 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 c. powdered sugar
1/2 of a large carton of Cool Whip or generic
Mix together and spread on crust.

3rd layer:
2 small pkgs instant chocolate or lemon pudding
3 c. milk
Whip 1 minute and spread on top.

4th layer:
Spread on the remaining Cool Whip.

Refrigerate at least 6 hours.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-07-15T07:00:00.009-05:00

TGIF!! And TG it's time for the Dog Blog again!

Here is a great dog substitute - Jim and Mary's beautiful Okie horse. This is a feisty horse that likes to chew hair while it's still on the head - I know this from experience....

Bring Back The Pickle-O's!

2011-07-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

I was reading Territory Mom's great blog the other day ( http://oklahome.blogspot.com/)and ran across a post about the great Sonic food item Pickle-O's. I decided to join her in a Bring Back The Pickle-O's plea....

Pickle-O's were popular in the 1970's at the Sonic drive-ins. I first tasted one at the Purcell, Oklahoma Sonic and was immediately hooked. I have eaten a lot of fried pickles since then, but none even half as tasty as Sonic's version. Pickle-O's were around for, oh, about 15 years or so, I guess. At the peak they were available at all Sonics, but then you could only find them at select Sonics, and now I don't think you could find a Sonic that still sells them.

Pickle-O's were about the size of a half-dollar - they were made from dill pickle slices, dipped in batter and fried to perfection. They were great with a Sonic burger, and we didn't know at the time what we had....until it was gone.

I discovered Pickle-O's again around 1990 or so at the Coalgate Sonic, and my mother, aunt and I were in seventh heaven until they pulled the Pickle-O's off the menu.

Sonic, please bring back the Pickle-O's. They are 10 times better than your onion rings, and your onion rings are exquisite. People will love them again! It's a hot summer - please give us a little relief and reward us with Pickle-O's....

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-07-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

It's another wonderful Monday! Time for another wonderful recipe!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

People were in love with dates during the 1950's and '60's. By dates I mean those big, tasty, prune-type things that often appeared in Christmas fruit cakes. Dates are actually very healthy for you, and this is a good way to make your cookies a little better for you and your family. I haven't made these cookies, but I plan to - they sound great!

Lois Elaine's Date Pinwheel Cookies:

1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. light-brown sugar, packed
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 t. vanilla
1 egg
2 c. sifted flour
dash of salt
1/4 t. baking soda
7 1/4 oz. pkg pitted dates
1 c. chopped nuts

Filling: Cut dates in small pieces and bring to a boil with 1/4 c. of the white sugar, a dash of salt and 1/3 c. water. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, then add the nuts and cool.

Cream the butter, add brown sugar, the 1/2 c. white sugar, vanilla and egg. Beat well. Add the dry ingredients and chill. Halve the dough; roll each half on floured wax paper, into a 9x12" rectangle. Spread with filling, roll up tightly from the end. Wrap in the wax paper. Chill overnight. Slice 1/8 inch thick and bake on a lightly greased baking sheet at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.

Makes about 5 dozen cookies.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-07-08T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hello - hope your Friday is nice and cool! Here's a cool dog....

Sofi the Talking Schnauzer isn't talking right now, and that's really not her tongue. It's her beloved rawhide chewie, and it's getting plenty of her attention. Yuck....

The Legend of the Cherokee Rose

2011-07-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

An area of present-state Oklahoma was the final destination for the Cherokee tribe after they were forced from their home in the Eastern United States because the settlers and speculators wanted the gold and other natural resources in their mountains.

I love visiting Tahlequah because of its rich history and the citizens' love of this history. There are double street signs in Tahlequah - one in English and one in Cherokee. The Cherokee History Center there is a must-see for visitors to Eastern Oklahoma. Walk in the woods near Tahlequah and you can literally feel the spirits around you (or it may be the Little People...But that's a story for later)....

Oklahomans as a lot aren't terribly fond of President Andrew Jackson and his minions, and although we love Tahlequah and our Cherokee, we are a bit sensitive over the subject of the Trail of Tears. What was done to the Cherokee people around 1830 was nothing short of a death march sanctioned by our own government. The fact that the Cherokee flourished and prospered in Tahlequah and the surrounding area is a credit to the Cherokee people, and should never be used to diminish the travesty that was done to them at the hands of the greedy.

There are two great legends associated with the grief experienced on the Trail of Tears. One is the legend of the Rose Rock. The other, featured here today, is the legend of the Cherokee Rose. Credit for compiling and editing this story goes to Kathy Weiser of http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ . Visit this great website for more beautiful legends and stories of our past.

The Legend of the Cherokee Rose (nu na hi du na tlo hi lu i)

More than 175 years ago, gold was discovered in the mountains of North Carolina and Georgia and as thousands of new settlers invaded the area, it spawned tensions with the American Indian tribes. As a result, President Andrew Jackson established the Indian Removal Policy in 1830, which forced the Cherokee Nation to give up its lands east of the Mississippi River and migrate to Indian Territory (now present day Oklahoma.)

The forced march, which began in 1838, was called the "Trail of Tears," because over 4,000 of the 15,000 Indians died of hunger, disease, cold, and exhaustion. In the Cherokee language, the event is called Nunna daul Tsuny -- "the trail where they cried."

Along the way, the Cherokee mothers cried and the elders prayed for a sign that would lift their spirits to give them strength. One night along the trail, the old men spent in the evening in powerful prayer, asking the Great One to help them with their suffering and save the children to rebuild the Cherokee Nation.

The Great One responded to the elders by saying: "Yes, I have seen the sorrows of the women and I can help them to keep their strength to help the children. Tell the women in the morning to look back where their tears have fallen to the ground. I will cause to grow quickly a plant, which will grow up and up and fall back down to touch the ground where another stem will begin to grow.

The next day when the Cherokee continued their journey, the elders advised the mothers to look behind them. In each place where the mothers' tears fell, a beautiful white rose began to grow. As the women watched the beautiful blossoms form, they forgot to cry and felt strong. By the afternoon they saw many white blossoms as far as they could see.

Its rose's gold center is said to represent the gold taken from the Cherokee lands, and its seven leaves on each stem signifies the seven Cherokee clans. Today, the wild Cherokee Rose can be found all along the Trail of Tears from North Carolina to Oklahoma.

Happy Independence Day, Everyone!!

2011-07-04T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hope you are having a wonderful holiday! If it's not too hot, do some grilling today - Look back at the Monday Recipe Blog during the late summer/early fall of 2010 for some terrific grilling recipes. There will be another Lois Elaine recipe right here next Monday!

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-07-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

It's Friday, so it's time for the Dog Blog once again.

Tery and Barb's terrier Max the Magnificent works hard and plays hard. He also eats a lot of ice cream....

Do You Have Hip Pain?

2011-06-29T07:00:00.006-05:00

Since 1995 I have been battling a constant pain deep in my left hip. It's like a really bad toothache, and is present 24/7. It doesn't cause me problems when I walk or do anything else active, but hurts the worst when I sit. And wouldn't you know, I have a desk job....

Since 2000 I have been to 6 specialists, had 4 MRI's, a bone scan, injection directly into my hip joint, numerous x-rays and scores of other things. I've been told the problem was in my back, and offered back surgery. I've been told the problem is in my hip and there is nothing that can be done about it. I have been offered injections into my back, I've been sent to a chiropractor.

Two years ago I visited yet another specialist. After two more MRI's I was sent home once again, with the assurance by my doctor that yes, there is something wrong, but he simply can't diagnose it.

The only good things about this all these years is that the pain is cut by nsaids - things like Tylenol, aspirin and Advil. I generally take two per day, which, of couse, has now led to an ulcer. I'm very lucky, however, that I have never had to take anything stronger than an aspirin to help me get through the day. There are so many addictions these days to prescription pain-killers that I vowed to never take even one. And to their credit, none of the physicians that I visited offered prescriptions when I told them that nsaids did the trick.

A couple of months ago I decided to try the most well-respected sports injury/orthaepedic clinic in Oklahoma - thankfully it is only 15 minutes from my house. This clinic has several locations in Oklahoma City and a very nice hospital in Edmond, and I don't know what took me so long to try it. I did the usual x-ray and sat in the examining room to await the doctor. He arrived, and after some pulling and prodding announced "I know what's wrong with you!" I kind of thought it was a joke after 16 years, but - no! He believes that I have a labral tear inside my hip joint. This is a cuff of sorts inside the joint that, when it tears, will not heal. When a relatively young person has a hip problem, there is a good possibility that a labral tear could be involved. It can tear by an injury or having an oddly-formed hip joint, and will cause major pain. A few years ago doctors finally came up with a solution. Even though this cuff can't heal, it can be put back together with pins, and if the problem was caused by an odd hip bone, the bone can be put right by a little shaving and texturing. The surgery may be arthroscopic or not, depending on what needs to be done. This is a relatively new surgery, and I feel fortunate that I live very close to one of the few doctors that specialize in it.

I recently took the first step to do a final diagnosis - this was a steroid injection directly into the joint to see if there was any pain relief. If so, the problem was definitely in the joint - if not, then a labral tear is not a possibility. So far, so good - I received three days of 100% pain relief. Now there will be an MRI, then the doctor and I will talk about what is needed. I'll keep you advised.

Here's what to remember - if you have chronic pain, please don't give up. I can't guarantee that I will be pain free at some point, but at least now I have hope. Sometimes it's just a matter of waiting and staying positive until the experts find a solution to your problem.

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-06-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

How's your Monday going so far? Here's a recipe to help it along!

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

This peppered steak recipe features sweet green peppers, which are readily available in the summertime, especially if you have a garden in your backyard. These green beauties are packed with healthy nutrients - we should all be eating more, and this recipe serves up a tasty way to get them on your table.

Lois Elaine's Peppered Steak:

1 1/2 lb. stew meat - cut in strips
garlic salt
black pepper
dash of soy sauce
1/2 of a large green pepper, cut in strips
1 c. celery, chopped
1 can beef consomme'
1 medium can mushrooms
1 onion

Brown meat and onion with garlic salt and a little black pepper. When almost done, add mushrooms and brown a little more. Add consomme' and one can of water. Add a dash or two of soy sauce, to taste. Let simmer until tender, about 45 minutes. Before serving, add the green pepper strips and celery. Thicken a little. Don't overcook the greens.

This is great served over egg noodles, rice or mashed potatoes.

The Friday Dog Blog

2011-06-24T07:00:00.008-05:00

Hello and what a great Friday we're having! Here is a dog for your enjoyment....

Well, actually, not a dog today. To show that we don't discriminate, we are featuring Jim and Mary's pretty gray and white kitty on the Dog Blog. The Dog Blog loves ALL animals!!

Time To Visit Your Farmers' Market!

2011-06-22T07:00:00.034-05:00

Yep, it's that time of the year again - Cities all over the country are featuring their Farmers' Markets. In Oklahoma our Farmers' Markets are typically open every Wednesday and Saturday, from April to October. Various farmer's sell their produce, normally picked that morning, from tables or the backs of pick-ups, generally in a big parking lot provided by the city.

You get only produce that is in season and won't find food imported from other states or countries. That's a good thing. You can buy a lot of in-season fruit, go home and can jelly or jam, or just can the fresh fruit to use in the middle of the winter.

I find the prices to be very comparable to grocery store prices, and the quality is much, much better. You might find a worm or two in the fresh corn, but you won't normally find pesticides. I consider the worm to be a trade-off that's well worth it.

Become a locavore - buy your vegetables locally from farmers that are invested in your community. You will taste the difference!

The Monday Recipe Blog

2011-06-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

What a great Monday it's going to be! Here's a recipe to start it off....

This blog features Lois Elaine Mueller's recipes every Monday. Lois' heyday was in the 1950's and 1960's, and her children swear she was the best cook that ever lived. Many baby boomers will remember these mouth-watering recipes, and these dishes are just as tasty today as they were in the sixties.

If you're going to eat cookies, they may as well be loaded with healthy oatmeal, right? For those of us who can't stand the taste and texture of a bowl of breakfast oatmeal, it may be the only way to ingest this essential grain. Oatmeal cookies are timeless - just as popular now as they were back in Lois Elaine's day. This recipe card notes that it came from Wava, who was a favorite friend of Lois Elaine's, in 1980.

Lois Elaine's Oatmeal Drop Cookies:

2 c. flour
1 t. baking soda
1 t. salt
1 1/2 t. cinnamon
2 c. "quick" oatmeal
1 c. shortening or butter, softened (Note: for soft cookies, use only 3/4 c.)
1/2 c. sugar
3/4 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
2 eggs
1/2 t. vanilla
1/3 c. milk
1 c. raisins
3/4 c. chopped nuts

Combine butter, sugars, eggs and vanilla in a large bowl. Cream for 2 minutes. Add milk. Mix together flour, salt, baking soda and cinnamon, then add that mixture to the butter mixture. Add oatmeal and blend well. Add raisins and nuts. Drop by teaspoonful onto a greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for about 12 minutes, or until brown.
Makes about 5 dozen cookies.