May 12, 2006

We have enjoyed a lovely day today after some scary storms yesterday. The weather front came in from the west bringing strong T-storms, hail, gusty winds and tornados. I took down all my awnings and battened down the hatches so to speak just in case but all we had here in Ashland was rain. Tonight the moon is full and I am grateful for clear skys. I went to Walmart today to buy some noodles. You know those long foam tubes used in pools. I put them under my slide-out canvas since it has stretched a bit and collects rain water and all sorts of debris from the trees. The noodles lift and support the little dip in the canvas allowing the water to slide off.

My daughter has planned a very active weekend for me. Tomorrow we go to see "Singing In The Rain" done by our local HS. My grandson will be playing in the band. He is graduating this year and has received a 4 yr. scholarship to VA Tech. In addition, he received a 4 yr Leadership Award which will pay his other expenses. He is quite a young man. I am very proud of him. Sunday for Mother's Day, we are going to an outdoor concert by this same young man and then out to dinner at Bertuccis, one of my favorite places. This entire month has been devoted to my VA family activities as well as my own personal catch-up with doctors, dentists etc. I am gradually working my way through the list.

Try this recipe for Brussels Sprouts:
peel off the outer leaves and slice in half or quarters according to how large they are. Toss in a bowl with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. Bake at 375 degrees for about 40 mins. or so. Toss occasionally during the baking. They come out crispy on the outside and delicious inside. I actually like them the next day, cold with a bit more olive oil, a touch of lemon juice and a piece of crusty bread. Yummy and so healthy.

I will post some pics soon. Enjoy your springtime wherever you are.