The kale I planted in the Spring has been a good performer this summer. I read an article in the newspaper decrying the purported health benefits of kale - seemingly it ranked 16th in a list of nutritious vegetables. Number one was watercress, of all things!
I started picking the kale just a few weeks after planting (tender shoots for salads) but now it really needs to be cooked. I came up with a new recipe slightly based on one I found in one of my numerous cookbooks, using kale and fish, for my dinner tonight.
The recipe was for a stuffed salmon trout, using spinach but I converted it into a baked fish fillet covered with the stuffing. Into the bargain, with a bit of flexibility, I managed to use up several items that had been lingering in the fridge and were close to their expiry date. The final result was a juicy piece of fish with a tasty, and in some places crisp, topping. It was a bit fiddly - you had to pre-cook the kale and fry up onions - but it only took 30 minutes in the oven.
It has been hot and sunny again today but clouded over around 4:00 p.m. No sign of rain, though! I managed three sets of tennis this morning but was done by 10:30 and came home for a much needed swim. I only had the AC on for a couple of hours as the kitchen heated up while I had the oven on. Now I will open the windows and hope for a cool night!
Friday 31 July 2015
Wednesday 29 July 2015
Swimming in a Bath Tub
The water in the pool is 84F (29C) so not very refreshing but still quite nice when you are hot and sweaty as I was after my bike ride home from the Senior's Centre. This was my day in the coffee bar and we sold a lot of pies, numerous cups of coffee and even some tea. I
was constantly refilling the water jug too, as everyone was feeling the heat despite the air conditioning.
I made some mango chutney this afternoon, and got a batch of rhubarb ready to make jam tomorrow. It needs to sit in sugar overnight. This may be the last picking of rhubarb as it was rather spindly and limp. I will watch over the next few weeks to see if any new stalks emerge. I have also been picking cherry tomatoes - we had a bunch at lunch yesterday and I had some more today. The regular tomatoes are almost ready - in fact Nathalie picked one yesterday but it still needs to ripen a bit more.
The last of the leftovers from the weekend BBQ tonight (I hope!). I am gradually cleaning out containers so should be able to defrost some fish tomorrow for something fresh. I really need to use up the Kale - Judy took some yesterday to make a salad but I prefer mine cooked. I also have a cauliflower to make into soup so I will be busy in the kitchen tomorrow. Thank goodness my AC is managing to cope with this hot spell!
was constantly refilling the water jug too, as everyone was feeling the heat despite the air conditioning.
I made some mango chutney this afternoon, and got a batch of rhubarb ready to make jam tomorrow. It needs to sit in sugar overnight. This may be the last picking of rhubarb as it was rather spindly and limp. I will watch over the next few weeks to see if any new stalks emerge. I have also been picking cherry tomatoes - we had a bunch at lunch yesterday and I had some more today. The regular tomatoes are almost ready - in fact Nathalie picked one yesterday but it still needs to ripen a bit more.
The last of the leftovers from the weekend BBQ tonight (I hope!). I am gradually cleaning out containers so should be able to defrost some fish tomorrow for something fresh. I really need to use up the Kale - Judy took some yesterday to make a salad but I prefer mine cooked. I also have a cauliflower to make into soup so I will be busy in the kitchen tomorrow. Thank goodness my AC is managing to cope with this hot spell!
Tuesday 28 July 2015
Hot and Sweaty!
Too hot for tennis (30'sC even at 8:30 a.m.) but I did play a couple of sets. Departed with a very red face and jumped straight into the pool to cool off once I got home.
Judy and kids here for a swim and lunch - I managed to get rid of some of the extra food from the weekend but still have potato salad and bean casserole which will be dinner tonight, along with a chicken thigh and some sausage.
I went to a movie (air-conditioned, bliss!) this afternoon. It was "Mr. Holmes" with a very aged Ian McKellan as the title character, quite good but nothing special.
Judy and kids here for a swim and lunch - I managed to get rid of some of the extra food from the weekend but still have potato salad and bean casserole which will be dinner tonight, along with a chicken thigh and some sausage.
I went to a movie (air-conditioned, bliss!) this afternoon. It was "Mr. Holmes" with a very aged Ian McKellan as the title character, quite good but nothing special.
Monday 27 July 2015
A Few Hot Days
Quite a bit of territory to cover as I have been very remiss in posting to my blog. Let's go back to last Thursday!
Tennis in the morning - very hot - but we managed to play three sets. Bridge was cancelled in the p.m. as we were missing one person so I had a lazy afternoon at home, swimming and tidying up the garden.
Friday continued hot and, as Judy and the kids were coming over for lunch and a swim, I left tennis early. I had put the pool heater on first thing in the morning and by the time I got home around 10: 15 the water was almost 80F. The kids had a great time - James was in the deep end without his floaties, quite scary. Judy had to dive in at one point when he looked to be in difficulty but, on the whole, he managed fine. BBQ at Cathie's in the evening to celebrate John's birthday. He is turning 85 next week and still playing tennis!
Out early on Saturday to attend the Orientation meeting for the Roger's Cup. Susan drove and we were back home by 10: 30 a.m. so I had the rest of the day for chores and a bit of pre-cooking ( my signature bean casserole) for the BBQ at my house on Sunday.
Sunday started off hot and we managed one set of tennis, albeit a long one, and I was home by 10:45. I made a potato salad for the evening meal and finished off the inevitable house work and cooking. The family arrived around 4:00 p.m. and Dave very kindly manned the barbecue. It worked like a charm (this was its inauguration) and we cooked a mountain of meat - lamb chops, chicken thighs, sausages and pork ribs - which were devoured in quick order. Judy had brought a Greek salad and a pile of corn cobs which also went down well. Dessert was a selection of cheesecake (see a previous entry) and some fresh fruit brought by Steve and Alison. And, of course, the wine and beer were flowing! Everyone had a nice cooling swim before we ate and the kids were back in the pool again after the meal as it was still very warm. James got to show off his new skills before an appreciative audience and the other two had fun with Uncle Steve in the pool.
Today continued to be extremely hot (33C at one point) so I have stayed inside most of the day with the air conditioning running. I have it set to 24C so it is quite comfortable downstairs although the upper floor is still a bit on the hot side. Despite having put the dishwasher through its paces last night, there was still a bit of a clean up required this morning - I even scrubbed the grill from the barbecue! However, all was tidied away by 9:30 and I had the rest of the morning to myself. Then bridge in the afternoon (I played several hands but only made the contract on one but my partner, Sami, had a small slam!). Leftovers for dinner, including the cheesecake. Yummy!
Tennis in the morning - very hot - but we managed to play three sets. Bridge was cancelled in the p.m. as we were missing one person so I had a lazy afternoon at home, swimming and tidying up the garden.
Friday continued hot and, as Judy and the kids were coming over for lunch and a swim, I left tennis early. I had put the pool heater on first thing in the morning and by the time I got home around 10: 15 the water was almost 80F. The kids had a great time - James was in the deep end without his floaties, quite scary. Judy had to dive in at one point when he looked to be in difficulty but, on the whole, he managed fine. BBQ at Cathie's in the evening to celebrate John's birthday. He is turning 85 next week and still playing tennis!
Out early on Saturday to attend the Orientation meeting for the Roger's Cup. Susan drove and we were back home by 10: 30 a.m. so I had the rest of the day for chores and a bit of pre-cooking ( my signature bean casserole) for the BBQ at my house on Sunday.
Sunday started off hot and we managed one set of tennis, albeit a long one, and I was home by 10:45. I made a potato salad for the evening meal and finished off the inevitable house work and cooking. The family arrived around 4:00 p.m. and Dave very kindly manned the barbecue. It worked like a charm (this was its inauguration) and we cooked a mountain of meat - lamb chops, chicken thighs, sausages and pork ribs - which were devoured in quick order. Judy had brought a Greek salad and a pile of corn cobs which also went down well. Dessert was a selection of cheesecake (see a previous entry) and some fresh fruit brought by Steve and Alison. And, of course, the wine and beer were flowing! Everyone had a nice cooling swim before we ate and the kids were back in the pool again after the meal as it was still very warm. James got to show off his new skills before an appreciative audience and the other two had fun with Uncle Steve in the pool.
Today continued to be extremely hot (33C at one point) so I have stayed inside most of the day with the air conditioning running. I have it set to 24C so it is quite comfortable downstairs although the upper floor is still a bit on the hot side. Despite having put the dishwasher through its paces last night, there was still a bit of a clean up required this morning - I even scrubbed the grill from the barbecue! However, all was tidied away by 9:30 and I had the rest of the morning to myself. Then bridge in the afternoon (I played several hands but only made the contract on one but my partner, Sami, had a small slam!). Leftovers for dinner, including the cheesecake. Yummy!
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| The Grillmaster, set up on the front porch, much easier to access from the kitchen. |
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| Nice and clean again after its inaugural use. I managed to find a connector for my propane tank. |
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| Still over 30C at 7:00 p.m. |
Wednesday 22 July 2015
Usual Wednesday
Spent a chunk of time this afternoon trimming dead branches off the Mountain Ash tree in my front yard. It really should come down but it does produce a proliferation of berries that the birds like. It was quite pleasant out there, not too hot and a nice breeze, but I did work up a bit of a sweat.
I also washed the area rug from my bedroom, in the bathtub. It has never been cleaned and was pretty grubby. When wet it weighed a ton but I did manage to get it outside and up on the outdoor rotary drier. Next job will be to lug it back upstairs but I think I will leave that until tomorrow.
I was behind the coffee bar at the Senior's Centre this morning and ready to leave at 12:00 when Margaret arrived but it suddenly got really busy so I stayed on until the lunch rush was over. Margaret and I were running back and forth making tea and coffee, warming up pies and clearing dirty cups. It looks like I may have to stay later in the future as well, as there really needed to be two people on hand. I biked home and managed to squeeze in a swim before lunch and another after my stint in the garden.
Leftover stew and broccoli and cauliflower casserole for dinner, so I will be well fed. Not much on TV until 9:00 so I will practice my French and Bridge until then!
I also washed the area rug from my bedroom, in the bathtub. It has never been cleaned and was pretty grubby. When wet it weighed a ton but I did manage to get it outside and up on the outdoor rotary drier. Next job will be to lug it back upstairs but I think I will leave that until tomorrow.
I was behind the coffee bar at the Senior's Centre this morning and ready to leave at 12:00 when Margaret arrived but it suddenly got really busy so I stayed on until the lunch rush was over. Margaret and I were running back and forth making tea and coffee, warming up pies and clearing dirty cups. It looks like I may have to stay later in the future as well, as there really needed to be two people on hand. I biked home and managed to squeeze in a swim before lunch and another after my stint in the garden.
Leftover stew and broccoli and cauliflower casserole for dinner, so I will be well fed. Not much on TV until 9:00 so I will practice my French and Bridge until then!
Tuesday 21 July 2015
An Afternoon at the Movies
I saw a great movie this afternoon - "Trainwreck" - it's a relationship movie with a cute ending. Quite the tear jerker. I stopped in at Adonis on the way home and got a few items that they had on special - some chicken samosas destined for the freezer, smoked mackerel and a tub of taramasalata which I am snacking on with a glass of wine. It never hurts to indulge in something tasty from time to time - just not every day!
The day dawned rather overcast and threatening to rain but I headed out to the tennis courts anyway. By the time I got there the skies had cleared and it was quite hot, but I did manage three sets as a cooling breeze came up later in the morning. Someone had brought a yummy caramel cake of which I had two pieces. I didn't feel too guilty as I'm sure I worked off quite a few calories on the courts.
I have a stew cooking in the crock pot but it's still a bit sticky so I will have a swim before I eat. Then it will be time to put out the garden refuse for pickup tomorrow. Busy, busy, busy!
The day dawned rather overcast and threatening to rain but I headed out to the tennis courts anyway. By the time I got there the skies had cleared and it was quite hot, but I did manage three sets as a cooling breeze came up later in the morning. Someone had brought a yummy caramel cake of which I had two pieces. I didn't feel too guilty as I'm sure I worked off quite a few calories on the courts.
I have a stew cooking in the crock pot but it's still a bit sticky so I will have a swim before I eat. Then it will be time to put out the garden refuse for pickup tomorrow. Busy, busy, busy!
Monday 20 July 2015
The Heat Continues
The sun is behind the houses (7:00 p.m.) but it's still over 30C! It's supposed to cool off slightly overnight which is just as well as tomorrow I plan to play tennis. I didn't play as usual on Sunday as it was just too hot after the grandkids departed.
Just a few chores this morning and a walk down to the drug store to mail some letters. Then over to the Senior's Centre for bridge. We had a substitute as Pinkie wasn't well and we also need a spare for her on Thursday. It is tricky in the summer as so many people are out of town, escaping the heat. However, we had some good hands and I won the one contract I played. I had two swims today, one after my walk and another when I got home from bridge.
Canada continues to do well at the Pan Am Games, just behind the US in the total medal count. I haven't been watching too much on TV - better things to do - but have been following events in the newspaper. There has been an amazing response to ticket sales and it looks like being a bonanza for the event and local businesses. Now they are talking of making a bid for a future Olympic Games since all the facilities are already constructed and have passed the test.
Just leftovers for dinner tonight but tomorrow, if it's cooler, I plan to cook a stew in the slow cooker with lots of vegetables. I will throw in several garlic cloves since I have such an abundance of them.
Just a few chores this morning and a walk down to the drug store to mail some letters. Then over to the Senior's Centre for bridge. We had a substitute as Pinkie wasn't well and we also need a spare for her on Thursday. It is tricky in the summer as so many people are out of town, escaping the heat. However, we had some good hands and I won the one contract I played. I had two swims today, one after my walk and another when I got home from bridge.
Canada continues to do well at the Pan Am Games, just behind the US in the total medal count. I haven't been watching too much on TV - better things to do - but have been following events in the newspaper. There has been an amazing response to ticket sales and it looks like being a bonanza for the event and local businesses. Now they are talking of making a bid for a future Olympic Games since all the facilities are already constructed and have passed the test.
Just leftovers for dinner tonight but tomorrow, if it's cooler, I plan to cook a stew in the slow cooker with lots of vegetables. I will throw in several garlic cloves since I have such an abundance of them.
Sunday 19 July 2015
Overnight Giests
We have had a couple of very hot days and - wouldn't you know it? - my air conditioner was on the blink. It was just pushing out warm air, not comfortable at all! Luckily I was able to get a technician out today and he had it fixed in quick sticks. So now I am cool and humidity free.
Elliot, Natalie and James came over yesterday for a sleep-over and they had great fun in the pool both yesterday and this morning (8:00 a.m., would you believe?). They also picked lots of raspberries (when will they end?) and made individual pizzas. I find they always eat better when they have a hand in preparing the food although they all have good appetites. We had rather a sticky night - Elliot slept in the basement which was slightly cooler - but they let me sleep until 6:15. Leftover pizza for breakfast and then they departed around 10:00 a.m. I have had a restful day since then, just a little gardening, twice in the pool and getting on with my current book.
Dinner tonight is a baked basa fillet (Sami's recipe, lime juice and onions) and a broccoli and cauliflower casserole. I made a batch of cauliflower soup for lunch but it will now go in the freezer for later in the year when the cauliflowers are too expensive. I also dug up my garlic this afternoon - got 8 big fat bulbs which are now drying out in the garage. They smell so much better that the store bought bulb I am currently using. Raspberries for dessert (again!). And that was my day!
Elliot, Natalie and James came over yesterday for a sleep-over and they had great fun in the pool both yesterday and this morning (8:00 a.m., would you believe?). They also picked lots of raspberries (when will they end?) and made individual pizzas. I find they always eat better when they have a hand in preparing the food although they all have good appetites. We had rather a sticky night - Elliot slept in the basement which was slightly cooler - but they let me sleep until 6:15. Leftover pizza for breakfast and then they departed around 10:00 a.m. I have had a restful day since then, just a little gardening, twice in the pool and getting on with my current book.
Dinner tonight is a baked basa fillet (Sami's recipe, lime juice and onions) and a broccoli and cauliflower casserole. I made a batch of cauliflower soup for lunch but it will now go in the freezer for later in the year when the cauliflowers are too expensive. I also dug up my garlic this afternoon - got 8 big fat bulbs which are now drying out in the garage. They smell so much better that the store bought bulb I am currently using. Raspberries for dessert (again!). And that was my day!
Friday 17 July 2015
Approaching 5,000 Visits.
I only need a few more people to visit my blog and I will reach 5,000. When I started the blog I never dreamed I would have so many visitors! Now, if only some would comment about my ramblings, then I would know I was on the right track.
Luckily I set off early (7:50) for tennis this morning as the weather was very iffy and finally the rain came down in earnest around 10:45. By that time I had had two sets and we were on our second pot of coffee. I was running things today and Tony asked me to increase the caffeine content of the second pot - he is a serious coffee drinker. Seemingly the first pot tasted like decaf to him. As that's what I normally drink, I didn't notice the difference. My rhubarb bread went down well and was all gone before we closed up shop.
It rained off and on all afternoon but seems to have dried up now. I had to run out in between showers to pick some more rhubarb so I could bake another cake for the freezer. There is enough rhubarb for a few more cakes or pies and maybe even a batch of jam, probably the result of so much rain recently.
I am going to try a new recipe for dinner - Sticky Ginger Chicken with Rice. The stickiness comes from a marmalade and honey glaze and it has apricots in it as well as garlic, onions and peppers. It sounds delicious and quite easy to make. We'll see!
Luckily I set off early (7:50) for tennis this morning as the weather was very iffy and finally the rain came down in earnest around 10:45. By that time I had had two sets and we were on our second pot of coffee. I was running things today and Tony asked me to increase the caffeine content of the second pot - he is a serious coffee drinker. Seemingly the first pot tasted like decaf to him. As that's what I normally drink, I didn't notice the difference. My rhubarb bread went down well and was all gone before we closed up shop.
It rained off and on all afternoon but seems to have dried up now. I had to run out in between showers to pick some more rhubarb so I could bake another cake for the freezer. There is enough rhubarb for a few more cakes or pies and maybe even a batch of jam, probably the result of so much rain recently.
I am going to try a new recipe for dinner - Sticky Ginger Chicken with Rice. The stickiness comes from a marmalade and honey glaze and it has apricots in it as well as garlic, onions and peppers. It sounds delicious and quite easy to make. We'll see!
Thursday 16 July 2015
Out All Day
One of these days when I hardly get any chores done but, who's checking. My time is my own do with whatever I want. A 9:30 departure for the PROBUS meeting which turned out to be very entertaining. After the announcements I was introduced as a new member and was welcomed by many during the coffee break. Very pleasant!
The speaker today gave us an interesting overview of the Franklin Expedition to the Arctic during the 19th century and his opinion of what transpired to cause the ultimate loss of life of all the seamen. Apart from the fact that the ships were frozen in the ice for 17 months, the culprit may have been lead in the tinned food they brought along. He also explored the notion that some of the seamen may have resorted to cannibalism as their food ran out, rather a gruesome idea.
I went straight from the meeting to Anne's for an al fresco lunch of sandwiches, fruit, tarts and tea, along with several of her other friends from dancing groups. She gave us a tour of her huge and well maintained garden, surely a lot of work! I know how much time my tiny back yard requires just to keep ahead of the weeds, so I can only imagine how much time she has to spend on hers
After leaving Anne's I headed for Rona as I had a coupon for extra Air Miles and was on the lookout for a hibachi. They didn't have exactly what I had in mind but I found a portable propane powered grill that should be adequate for my needs. I still have to put it together and buy the correct size of propane cylinder. I don't think it has the correct connection for the one I used with my old (and now deceased) BBQ. I will get Judy to have a look at it the next time she is over.
A nice easy dinner tonight as I am not overly hungry, just salad and some ham. No dessert as I rather overdid the sweet stuff at Anne's. It was so tempting!
The speaker today gave us an interesting overview of the Franklin Expedition to the Arctic during the 19th century and his opinion of what transpired to cause the ultimate loss of life of all the seamen. Apart from the fact that the ships were frozen in the ice for 17 months, the culprit may have been lead in the tinned food they brought along. He also explored the notion that some of the seamen may have resorted to cannibalism as their food ran out, rather a gruesome idea.
I went straight from the meeting to Anne's for an al fresco lunch of sandwiches, fruit, tarts and tea, along with several of her other friends from dancing groups. She gave us a tour of her huge and well maintained garden, surely a lot of work! I know how much time my tiny back yard requires just to keep ahead of the weeds, so I can only imagine how much time she has to spend on hers
After leaving Anne's I headed for Rona as I had a coupon for extra Air Miles and was on the lookout for a hibachi. They didn't have exactly what I had in mind but I found a portable propane powered grill that should be adequate for my needs. I still have to put it together and buy the correct size of propane cylinder. I don't think it has the correct connection for the one I used with my old (and now deceased) BBQ. I will get Judy to have a look at it the next time she is over.
A nice easy dinner tonight as I am not overly hungry, just salad and some ham. No dessert as I rather overdid the sweet stuff at Anne's. It was so tempting!
Wednesday 15 July 2015
Hot Spell Over
We had a very hot weekend and Tuesday, although overcast and rainy was still quite hot and humid. However, some time overnight the weather suddenly changed, a wind came up from the north and the temperature dropped to 12C. What a shock when I opened the front door this morning to pick up the newspaper! At some point during the night I got up to close the windows so the house had stayed at a very comfortable 17C and it has only risen a couple of degrees since. Good gardening weather!
Yesterday I had a couple of sets of tennis before the rain arrived. Judy and the kids were due to come over for lunch and luckily the rain stopped for a while and they got in the pool. They had great fun although the rain started up again but they were well and truly wet anyway so it didn't cramp their style.
Today I biked over to the Senior's centre to man the coffee bar. It still is not very busy there as a lot of people are away for the summer so it was easy to keep ahead of the coffee requests. I was home by 12:00 noon and had a busy afternoon in the garden. It is looking much tidier but there are still little pockets of weeds that need to be obliterated.
Yesterday I made some delicious Raspberry scones from the "Ricardo" magazine and have been overindulging in them. I read an article in another magazine that a good way to drop some pounds is to abstain from carbohydrates after lunch - that will be hard to do with them tempting me from the freezer! I will have to relegate them to breakfast or morning snack.
Dinner tonight is a yummy and healthy fish casserole I made yesterday and the broccoli tabbouleh from Monday. Not many carbs in that. The fish dish was a basa fillet cut into 6 or 7 pieces and covered with a cheese sauce into which I had wilted two kale leaves, chopped up small. This was covered with bread crumbs and more cheese and baked in the oven. It was exactly enough for two meals. I don't seem to be making any headway with using up the kale and now the cherry tomatoes are starting to ripen. The lettuce has shot up like a rocket but I may be able to salvage a few leaves.
Yesterday I had a couple of sets of tennis before the rain arrived. Judy and the kids were due to come over for lunch and luckily the rain stopped for a while and they got in the pool. They had great fun although the rain started up again but they were well and truly wet anyway so it didn't cramp their style.
Today I biked over to the Senior's centre to man the coffee bar. It still is not very busy there as a lot of people are away for the summer so it was easy to keep ahead of the coffee requests. I was home by 12:00 noon and had a busy afternoon in the garden. It is looking much tidier but there are still little pockets of weeds that need to be obliterated.
Yesterday I made some delicious Raspberry scones from the "Ricardo" magazine and have been overindulging in them. I read an article in another magazine that a good way to drop some pounds is to abstain from carbohydrates after lunch - that will be hard to do with them tempting me from the freezer! I will have to relegate them to breakfast or morning snack.
Dinner tonight is a yummy and healthy fish casserole I made yesterday and the broccoli tabbouleh from Monday. Not many carbs in that. The fish dish was a basa fillet cut into 6 or 7 pieces and covered with a cheese sauce into which I had wilted two kale leaves, chopped up small. This was covered with bread crumbs and more cheese and baked in the oven. It was exactly enough for two meals. I don't seem to be making any headway with using up the kale and now the cherry tomatoes are starting to ripen. The lettuce has shot up like a rocket but I may be able to salvage a few leaves.
Monday 13 July 2015
Ricardo
I received a new magazine today and have already tried one of the recipes! The magazine is called "Ricardo", after the chef who has developed it and the recipes. I seem to recall that he had a cooking show on the Food Network a few years ago.
The recipe I tried is Broccoli Tabbouleh. In the photo it is shown with Pork tenderloin and an egg but I just had it with some leftover chicken which I cooked yesterday. It was very quick and easy to prepare as you chop the broccoli quite finely in the food processor so it takes just minutes to cook. And the bulgar wheat also only needs 4 minutes. It seemed a bit bland so I substituted low sodium chicken stock for the water and added a dash of turmeric. It made enough for a couple of meals.
The recipe I tried is Broccoli Tabbouleh. In the photo it is shown with Pork tenderloin and an egg but I just had it with some leftover chicken which I cooked yesterday. It was very quick and easy to prepare as you chop the broccoli quite finely in the food processor so it takes just minutes to cook. And the bulgar wheat also only needs 4 minutes. It seemed a bit bland so I substituted low sodium chicken stock for the water and added a dash of turmeric. It made enough for a couple of meals.
And, as promised, a photo of Lucy lounging on the couch in one of her quieter moments!
Sunday 12 July 2015
The Last of Wimbledon
Well, that's the end of Wimbledon for another year. Rather a disappointing Men's Final as Roger Federer seemed to be worn down by all his previous matches. He did manage to win one set and Novac Jokovic was furious! He came out blazing after that and won the next two sets handily.
Lucy left around noon with her tail wagging crazily to be reunited with her owners. She really was very little trouble but I like to be on my own! I cut the grass this afternoon between swims (got to keep cool) and now I am waiting for the sun to go down so that I can do a bit more gardening. Leftovers for dinner - baked fish and couscous - and still more raspberries!
Lucy left around noon with her tail wagging crazily to be reunited with her owners. She really was very little trouble but I like to be on my own! I cut the grass this afternoon between swims (got to keep cool) and now I am waiting for the sun to go down so that I can do a bit more gardening. Leftovers for dinner - baked fish and couscous - and still more raspberries!
Saturday 11 July 2015
A House Guest
I have an overnight guest tonight - Lucy the dog - my son and daughter-in-laws. I will try to get a photo of her before she leaves tomorrow. Meanwhile here are some shots of the grandkids in the pool yesterday. It's extremely hot today so I haven't been out much but did take a couple of dips. I will take Lucy for a walk once it starts to cool off.
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| James almost swimming but needs his "floaties" when in the pool alone. |
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| The other two in the deep end - hard to get a photo of them above water |
Friday 10 July 2015
An Outing
Yesterday I was out of the house by 7:40 a.m. to catch the bus to Muskoka. It was a trip with the Seniors' group but the day didn't look too bright. We just prayed it wouldn't rain. We were on the road by 8:00 a.m. and arrived in Bracebridge around 10:00. By then the skies were beginning to clear and there was the odd flash of sun. An hour at the Maple House for a tour and time to shop, then on to the riverside to board the "Lady of Muskoka" for our cruise up the river and around the lake.
We had lunch on the boat and very nice it was (salad, chicken with vegetables, followed by coffee and carrot cake), watching the scenery go by as we ate. After the meal we sat on the top deck with clear skies and a light breeze. It was very relaxing and a pleasant change from my usual routines. After a wander around Bracebridge - there are some impressive Falls in the town - we were back on the bus around 4:00 p.m. By 6:00 p.m. we were hitting the heavy traffic on the 401 across the top of the city and it took us 45 minutes to arrive back at the parking lot. However, as I had no other plans for the evening, and leftovers to warm up for dinner, it was no problem for me.
Today Judy and the kids came over for a swim and lunch. They also helped me clear the raspberry bushes (creating yummy desserts for after the sandwiches) and Elliot vacuumed the pool. They had to leave right after lunch as they had a swimming lesson but at least I have clean pool and just a few more raspberries to pick!
We had lunch on the boat and very nice it was (salad, chicken with vegetables, followed by coffee and carrot cake), watching the scenery go by as we ate. After the meal we sat on the top deck with clear skies and a light breeze. It was very relaxing and a pleasant change from my usual routines. After a wander around Bracebridge - there are some impressive Falls in the town - we were back on the bus around 4:00 p.m. By 6:00 p.m. we were hitting the heavy traffic on the 401 across the top of the city and it took us 45 minutes to arrive back at the parking lot. However, as I had no other plans for the evening, and leftovers to warm up for dinner, it was no problem for me.
Today Judy and the kids came over for a swim and lunch. They also helped me clear the raspberry bushes (creating yummy desserts for after the sandwiches) and Elliot vacuumed the pool. They had to leave right after lunch as they had a swimming lesson but at least I have clean pool and just a few more raspberries to pick!
Wednesday 8 July 2015
At the Coffee Bar
First thing this morning I biked over to the Seniors' Centre to run the coffee bar. This will be my station every Wednesday morning for the rest of the summer while Maria is at her cottage. It was quite busy with the (mostly) ladies from the various classes grabbing their java fix. There are a couple of Keep Fit classes, a decoupage group and a belly dancing class. Then the morning finished with Line Dancing. There is also "drop in snooker" but I don't think I had anyone from that group buying coffee. We also sell pies which are a popular item. So it's a pretty active morning.
Biking there and back is my substitute for the Stretch and Strength class which I normally would be attending on Wednesday mornings. I didn't sign up for it this time as I am getting plenty of exercise swimming and playing tennis So that freed me up to be the "coffee lady".
Just a bit of gardening this afternoon followed by a swim. It is considerably cooler today but the pool has retained most of its heat. Thanks be, the humidity is back down to comfortable levels!
I received a welcome package in the mail today - some old photos from my mother's albums that my brother was weeding out. I hope to put them on my Tribal Pages website (http://elliot99.tribalpages.com) so I was very grateful that he saved them and sent them to me. It would be a shame if these items were lost to posterity.
Fish for dinner tonight, fried probably with sweet potato mash and peas. Another load of raspberries too - they seem to be never ending and are the best crop I have had in recent years.
Biking there and back is my substitute for the Stretch and Strength class which I normally would be attending on Wednesday mornings. I didn't sign up for it this time as I am getting plenty of exercise swimming and playing tennis So that freed me up to be the "coffee lady".
Just a bit of gardening this afternoon followed by a swim. It is considerably cooler today but the pool has retained most of its heat. Thanks be, the humidity is back down to comfortable levels!
I received a welcome package in the mail today - some old photos from my mother's albums that my brother was weeding out. I hope to put them on my Tribal Pages website (http://elliot99.tribalpages.com) so I was very grateful that he saved them and sent them to me. It would be a shame if these items were lost to posterity.
Fish for dinner tonight, fried probably with sweet potato mash and peas. Another load of raspberries too - they seem to be never ending and are the best crop I have had in recent years.
Tuesday 7 July 2015
Hot, Wet and Humid
Right now it's raining fit to beat the band so I have had to resort to indoor activities. I did get some tennis this morning but it was very hot (29C) and humid, so I quit around 10:30. I was so lethargic on the courts and there was a huge crowd so leaving early was a no-brainer. I was planning to cut the grass but now it is too wet. Too bad!
Came home to watch Wimbledon - the Ladies' quarter finals - so now they are down to 4 and will play the semis on Thursday and the Final on Saturday. There is no one I am particularly rooting for and It's likely Serena Williams is going to take the title. She lost the first set to Vica (Victoria Azarenka) today but came on like gangbusters when push came to shove.
If the rain lets up I will make a quick run to Metro and the library (I have a $5 off coupon for cheesecake!) as there is a book I need for Reading Club waiting for me. Until then I plan to play on Duolingo - I'm practising my French in case I decide to spend a month in France next year. I am toying with the idea and saving my pennies! According to the program I'm 24% proficient in French (I doubt it!). However, it's getting darker and I just heard some thunder so I may be stuck at home.
Leftover chicken and kale for dinner tonight and I will cook some oven roast potatoes. I have an avocado that needs eaten and a red pepper to roast so there may be a salad on the table too.
* Update:5:30 p.m. The rain has stopped, the temperature has dropped to a comfortable 24C, the garden is well watered and the pool is filled. I am back from the store with the aforementioned cheesecake. Quite the bargain, almost 1/3 off the regular price. I have stowed it in the freezer for the next time I have company and so I will not be tempted to eat it all myself!
Came home to watch Wimbledon - the Ladies' quarter finals - so now they are down to 4 and will play the semis on Thursday and the Final on Saturday. There is no one I am particularly rooting for and It's likely Serena Williams is going to take the title. She lost the first set to Vica (Victoria Azarenka) today but came on like gangbusters when push came to shove.
If the rain lets up I will make a quick run to Metro and the library (I have a $5 off coupon for cheesecake!) as there is a book I need for Reading Club waiting for me. Until then I plan to play on Duolingo - I'm practising my French in case I decide to spend a month in France next year. I am toying with the idea and saving my pennies! According to the program I'm 24% proficient in French (I doubt it!). However, it's getting darker and I just heard some thunder so I may be stuck at home.
Leftover chicken and kale for dinner tonight and I will cook some oven roast potatoes. I have an avocado that needs eaten and a red pepper to roast so there may be a salad on the table too.
* Update:5:30 p.m. The rain has stopped, the temperature has dropped to a comfortable 24C, the garden is well watered and the pool is filled. I am back from the store with the aforementioned cheesecake. Quite the bargain, almost 1/3 off the regular price. I have stowed it in the freezer for the next time I have company and so I will not be tempted to eat it all myself!
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| Four varieties, so everyone should get their favourite. |
Monday 6 July 2015
The Greek Vote
Very depressing news about the Greeks voting no to austerity. I can't see how they will survive on their own as it seems likely they will have to leave the European Union, lose the Euro and revert to the drachma. Thank goodness things are relatively stable here. although I am sure the TSX will take a beating in the next few days.
Well, enough of that. My life continues in a stable manner, except for a big bill from the pool guys which arrived today. This is on top of the bill for opening the pool and seems to be mostly chemicals. I will have to query it to make sure it is legit.
Still one lone Canadian in the Wimbledon tournament. I watched Pospisil's match this morning from start to finish and he competed so well, coming back from 2 sets down to take the match - quite a thriller! Serena and Venus Williams played each other and Serena won, not surprisingly. I didn't see the match but I'm sure there will be a full report in the paper tomorrow.
Marie, Pinky and I played bridge this afternoon with a new friend who was my partner. Unfortunately she kept telling me how badly I bid and played, which left me feeling a bit disgruntled. Admittedly she was quite a superior player compared to the rest of us, but I would prefer her not to be so critical. I did tell her that I was a relative newcomer to the game before we started and it's not as if we were playing for money or even keeping score!
In the pool twice this afternoon, once after I got home from bridge and once after a stint of gardening. It is quite steamy hot today and the water has reached 77F. I hope it cools off a bit tonight. Fish in a curry sauce, kale and potatoes for dinner and still more raspberries!
Well, enough of that. My life continues in a stable manner, except for a big bill from the pool guys which arrived today. This is on top of the bill for opening the pool and seems to be mostly chemicals. I will have to query it to make sure it is legit.
Still one lone Canadian in the Wimbledon tournament. I watched Pospisil's match this morning from start to finish and he competed so well, coming back from 2 sets down to take the match - quite a thriller! Serena and Venus Williams played each other and Serena won, not surprisingly. I didn't see the match but I'm sure there will be a full report in the paper tomorrow.
Marie, Pinky and I played bridge this afternoon with a new friend who was my partner. Unfortunately she kept telling me how badly I bid and played, which left me feeling a bit disgruntled. Admittedly she was quite a superior player compared to the rest of us, but I would prefer her not to be so critical. I did tell her that I was a relative newcomer to the game before we started and it's not as if we were playing for money or even keeping score!
In the pool twice this afternoon, once after I got home from bridge and once after a stint of gardening. It is quite steamy hot today and the water has reached 77F. I hope it cools off a bit tonight. Fish in a curry sauce, kale and potatoes for dinner and still more raspberries!
Sunday 5 July 2015
Keeping Busy
I have done virtually nothing since coming home from tennis around 11:00 this morning. Kathy, Susan, Iona and I played three hard sets, changing partners each time, and it was getting very hot by the time we stopped. There were exactly 12 people at the courts so we didn't have to give up our court for the whole time we played. What a bonus!
I had two dips in the pool - the water is up to 24 C (75F) and very refreshing - one after I came home from tennis and another after watering the vegetables. Then I felt refreshed enough to dig up some weeds so, gradually, I am getting the garden in shape. It helped that I was still in my wet swimsuit.
I have a new recipe for dinner tonight - Oven Fried Chicken Breasts. They are dipped in buttermilk and then coated with a breadcrumb, flour and spices mixture. Then baked until cooked through. I also made some more scones this afternoon, to use up the buttermilk. More raspberries for dessert! I need to get the grandkids over to help me pick the rest before the birds get them.
I had two dips in the pool - the water is up to 24 C (75F) and very refreshing - one after I came home from tennis and another after watering the vegetables. Then I felt refreshed enough to dig up some weeds so, gradually, I am getting the garden in shape. It helped that I was still in my wet swimsuit.
I have a new recipe for dinner tonight - Oven Fried Chicken Breasts. They are dipped in buttermilk and then coated with a breadcrumb, flour and spices mixture. Then baked until cooked through. I also made some more scones this afternoon, to use up the buttermilk. More raspberries for dessert! I need to get the grandkids over to help me pick the rest before the birds get them.
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| I couldn't resist - I had a $1 off coupon - and it's delicious in this hot weather! |
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| A nice tidy border. |
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| Lots of green tomatoes. Soon they will be ready to pick. |
Saturday 4 July 2015
A Visitor
Friday was busy - tennis until noon and I came home quite exhausted but had to get on with weeding as it is getting out of hand. I have been picking a bowlful of raspberries most days for dessert.
Today was a more peaceful day with some tennis on TV this morning (the lone remaining Canadian at Wimbledon, Vasek Pospicil, won his match so is through to the round of 16), a quick run to the grocery store to replenish my larder, and then a quiet afternoon. I had to stay indoors as I was waiting for the maintenance man to give my furnace and air conditioner their annual checkup. He was supposed to come last Friday but didn't appear (or I was in the backyard with the grandkids) so I had to rebook him. He finally arrived about 3: 45 and was done by 4:15 so I was able to spend some time by (and in) the pool while the sun was still around.
I treated myself to some smoked salmon, which was "on special" and have just eaten most of it on crackers with cream cheese and a glass of sherry. I will be cooking a basa fillet in a little bit (still wondering if it will be fried or poached) and I should get out for more raspberries. They are coming thick and fast and I may have to freeze some for later. I made a rhubarb loaf while waiting for the furnace man so a slice of that would be nice with the berries. It is such a treat to not have to buy fresh berries although they are a bit cheaper at this time of the year.
Today was a more peaceful day with some tennis on TV this morning (the lone remaining Canadian at Wimbledon, Vasek Pospicil, won his match so is through to the round of 16), a quick run to the grocery store to replenish my larder, and then a quiet afternoon. I had to stay indoors as I was waiting for the maintenance man to give my furnace and air conditioner their annual checkup. He was supposed to come last Friday but didn't appear (or I was in the backyard with the grandkids) so I had to rebook him. He finally arrived about 3: 45 and was done by 4:15 so I was able to spend some time by (and in) the pool while the sun was still around.
I treated myself to some smoked salmon, which was "on special" and have just eaten most of it on crackers with cream cheese and a glass of sherry. I will be cooking a basa fillet in a little bit (still wondering if it will be fried or poached) and I should get out for more raspberries. They are coming thick and fast and I may have to freeze some for later. I made a rhubarb loaf while waiting for the furnace man so a slice of that would be nice with the berries. It is such a treat to not have to buy fresh berries although they are a bit cheaper at this time of the year.
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| Sweet peas are just coming into bloom. These are self-seeding and sprout each year in a couple of spots. |
Thursday 2 July 2015
Mexican Meal
Usual Thursday activities - tennis for an hour and a half this morning (we had three really hard sets, must have burned off a few calories) and bridge this afternoon. Then home to putter in the garden for an hour. But the highlight of my day was the discovery of a new recipe.
In the newspaper today there was an article about Mexican food with a recipe for "Chilaquiles". This is a dish normally served at breakfast or brunch but, to my eyes, it afforded a way to use up all the small pieces left at the bottom of the tostitos bag! I had it with yesterday's vegetable pie and it was a very tasty accompaniment. Here's the recipe. I left out the jalapeno and chipotle peppers as I found the salsa was spicy enough. I don't eat a lot of spicy food.
Chilaquiles
2 tbspn. olive oil
1/2 large jalapeno, seeded, finely diced
1/2 cup diced Spanish or white onion
1 cup purchased salsa
1 tbspn. pureed canned chipotles in adobo sauce or to taste
1/4 cup sour cream
2 cups tortilla chips
1/4 cup grated queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
Toppings: (optional)
2 fried eggs sunny side up
1 avocado, diced
1 large tomato, seeded, diced
2 tbspn. chopped cilantro leaves
2 tbspn. thinly sliced green onions
In medium, non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and jalapeno. Cook, stirring, 3 minutes to soften. Add salsa and chipotle. Reduce heat to medium, cook 4 minutes. Stir in sour cream. Add tortilla chips and toss until well coated. Sprinkle with cheese. Turn heat off, cover and let stand 2 minutes to melt cheese. To serve, divide in two plates, top with your choice of egg, avocado pieces, cilantro and green onions.
Enjoy!
In the newspaper today there was an article about Mexican food with a recipe for "Chilaquiles". This is a dish normally served at breakfast or brunch but, to my eyes, it afforded a way to use up all the small pieces left at the bottom of the tostitos bag! I had it with yesterday's vegetable pie and it was a very tasty accompaniment. Here's the recipe. I left out the jalapeno and chipotle peppers as I found the salsa was spicy enough. I don't eat a lot of spicy food.
Chilaquiles
2 tbspn. olive oil
1/2 large jalapeno, seeded, finely diced
1/2 cup diced Spanish or white onion
1 cup purchased salsa
1 tbspn. pureed canned chipotles in adobo sauce or to taste
1/4 cup sour cream
2 cups tortilla chips
1/4 cup grated queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
Toppings: (optional)
2 fried eggs sunny side up
1 avocado, diced
1 large tomato, seeded, diced
2 tbspn. chopped cilantro leaves
2 tbspn. thinly sliced green onions
In medium, non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and jalapeno. Cook, stirring, 3 minutes to soften. Add salsa and chipotle. Reduce heat to medium, cook 4 minutes. Stir in sour cream. Add tortilla chips and toss until well coated. Sprinkle with cheese. Turn heat off, cover and let stand 2 minutes to melt cheese. To serve, divide in two plates, top with your choice of egg, avocado pieces, cilantro and green onions.
Enjoy!
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| Especially liked the avocado topping! |
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| And now for a sweet dessert! |
Wednesday 1 July 2015
Canada Day
Canada is 148 years old today! I celebrated the holiday with my tennis friends at Don Mills - lots of tennis and a great lunch. It was a BBQ with various salads, fruits and several desserts. Coffee was on tap all day and plenty of cold drinks so, all in all, everyone's needs were satisfied. The weather was perfect (low 20's) except that it was quite windy. Rain had been forecast but never materialized. There must have been at least 60 people there so we had to take turns on the courts but I had more than enough tennis. After lunch we joined in singing "Oh, Canada" so all felt very patriotic.
Home for a nap, cut the front grass and tidied up the borders, taking advantage of the good weather. Picked some kale, parsley and lettuce from the garden and have a healthy vegetable tart in the oven. I will have it with some salad and my pickled beetroot. There's even some chocolate brownie I brought home from the tennis club lunch so I will be well fed tonight!
Home for a nap, cut the front grass and tidied up the borders, taking advantage of the good weather. Picked some kale, parsley and lettuce from the garden and have a healthy vegetable tart in the oven. I will have it with some salad and my pickled beetroot. There's even some chocolate brownie I brought home from the tennis club lunch so I will be well fed tonight!
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| Kale, onion and mushroom pie. It also had parsley and cheese. Lettuce and avocado salad with cucumber and red pepper. |
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| I had 1/4 of the pie so I will be eating it for lunches and dinners for a while. The salad had a lemon, balsamic and olive oil dressing. |
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