There is no other to say it except it is cold out there. I’m glad for a warm house and the privilege of staying home if I so choose. Even so when I do go out it is with layers of clothes, boots, scarfs, gloves, etc. and I look forward to the days when we can get by without all the extra clothing and can just hop into the car and do our errands. I didn’t think I would get any books from the library this week however with the temperatures below zero it certainly is nice to sit in an easy chair with an extra lap robe and a book in hand. The winter reading program is going on at the library and perhaps you too would like to participate in it. I have read some quite interesting material lately and although they aren’t the latest on the book lists they have peeked my interest in the settling of the western United States. We maybe complain but it was much worse for the settlers that perhaps were our grandparents and their families. At least we have electricity, warm houses and good roads compared to what they had to endure.
Our granddaughter, Abby is going to school in Minot. She is practice teaching this semester and already looking for future employment possibilities that include moving to a warmer climate. They have had an abundance of snow in North Dakota and getting the car shoveled out daily to make the trip to school has added extra time to get to school on time. Her resume includes elementary teaching and speech communications. Sounds like a good combination.
Leah asked if I could make her some very small doilies. I have no idea what she plans to use them for. Her last project was framing a variety of doilies for a large “picture”. She wants some three to five inches and I told her they would have to be made of fine thread. I started some using only the inner pattern of a couple. Most doilies call for size 10 thread but these are made with 20 or 30. I think that is as a small as I’ll try for now. When I find out what she is using them for I’ll let you know. Always a new craft idea in the works.
I made the salad for Christmas dinner. Some weren’t too sure about it just by looking at it but after they tasted said it was more than okay. Because it is so easy and quick to prepare I will make it again. I thought it might separate overnight but it was just as good the next day.
Swiss Potato Casserole
1 (2 pounds) package frozen southern-style hash-brown potatoes
8 oz. (2 cups) shredded Swiss cheese
1/4 cup margarine or butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Heat oven to 350º. In a 9 x 13 inch baking dish, sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, combine potatoes and cheese, toss to mix.
Melt margarine in a saucepan. Stir in flour; cook over medium heat until bubbly, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Add salt, onion powder, pepper and nutmeg; mix well. Cook and stir until mixture comes to a boil. Pour over potato mixture. Bake at 350º for 55 to 65 minutes or until mixture is set and top is lightly browned. 12 servings.
Prosciutto Provolone Panini
On four slices of white bread, layer a slice of provolone cheese, a slice of prosciutto and second slice of provolone. Top with a slice of bread. Brush both sides of sandwiches with 3 tablespoons olive oil; sprinkle with 3 tablespoons minced fresh sage. Cook in a panini maker or indoor grill until toasted and the cheese is melted. Makes 4 servings
Quick and Easy Salad
To one can of cherry pie filling add l can sweetened condensed milk. Stir until mixed. Add l (8 ounces) carton of Cool Whip, thawed. Fold together until mixed. Add l small can of crushed pineapple -juice and fruit. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
