A New Year…A Continued Mission

2015!!!  Happy New Year to you all!

Cannot believe that the first entry of this Blog was almost five years ago this month.  So much wonder has happened in between, and the long hiatus was due to the second leg of this Blog, if you will, which involved the writing and publishing of my children's book titled, "The Tales of Frances & Hoppy…the Magical Frogs!" Just as with this Blog project's goal of donating each month to charities centered around the homeless, hungry and impoverished, the book's message intends to instill that awareness in our young ones-- the importance of respecting and caring about others along with the belief in one's self that anything is possible.  A portion of the book's sale proceeds is donated monthly to the same type of organizations mentioned above.  The book is available for purchase via my website for anyone interested!  (www.francesandhoppy.com)   Our donations are not huge by any stretch, but for those of you who know me, you can attest to my belief that giving, no matter how small, is important.

I hope this year will be one of much love, peace, prosperity and abundance for you and yours! 

Enjoy this delicious, and I mean scrum-diddly-umptious, soup!

"Basil Tomato Soup with Orzo"

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 carton (32 ounces) chicken broth
• 1 cup loosely packed basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1-1/4 cups uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese

Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, saute onion in butter for 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1-2 minutes longer or until onion is tender. Stir in the tomatoes, broth, basil, sugar and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes. 
2. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to package directions; drain. Add orzo and cream to soup; heat through (do not boil). Sprinkle servings with cheese. Yield: 16 servings (4-1/2 quarts).

--Recipe from "Taste of Home Special Editions"- "Italian Cookbook" magazine 2013.  

"Invest In Giving"

My family and I attended our church's Saturday night service last night, and it was fabulous!  It was right along the lines of this blog, and so "in sync" with how my heart feels on a daily basis.  If you read the beginning postings of this blog (2010), you will notice how I quoted our Pastor Kenton Beshore as saying, "If you have been blessed, in any way, you have been blessed to BE a blessing."  Best quote ever!  I look at my two beautiful, healthy children and my first thought is "Thank you!".  I see my husband and how hard he works for us, and the roof over our heads, and I again think, "Thank you."  I recognize the abundance of family and friends in our lives, and again a resounding, "Thank you!"  These are just a few examples of the blessings that so many of us have been given. 

Last night, Pastor Kenton urged everyone of us to recognize how God has invested in us with every blessing that we can count, and that it is to be "re-invested", so to speak, in giving and generosity toward others.  He was speaking directly to my heart.  I am not a perfect person by any stretch, but I do make conscious observations of how much I have been blessed in this life.  I believe that it is a responsibility to take care of those less fortunate with the gifts and abundance that have been provided.  This blog project was created to instill that awareness in my children so that their adult life will hopefully contain the joyous heart that is created through acts of giving.  I am so grateful for that opportunity -- yet, another blessing.

This blog has been on somewhat of a break due to the busy-ness of life...but the donations are still being placed in the jar, and we are still 100% mindful of this project's purpose. 

This recipe was delicious and easy -- perfect for us busy Moms!  Crock-Pot needed...I hope that you enjoy it as much as we did.  It was published in "Real Simple" magazine (January 2011).

coffee-braised brisket with potatoes and carrots

1 medium onion, peeled and quartered, stem end left intact

1 pound new potatoes (about 12)

1 pound medium carrots, cut into 2 1/2 inch lengths

2 1/2 pounds beef brisket, trimmed

Kosher salt and black pepper

1 6-ounce can tomato paste

1/2 cup brewed black coffee

2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 Tablespoons packed light brown sugar

2 Tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Country bread

1.  In the bottom of a 5-to-6-quart slow cooker, combine the onion, potatoes, and carrots.  Season the beef with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and place on top of the vegetables.
2.  In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, coffee, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar; Pour over the beef and vegetables.  Cover and cook on low until the beef and vegetables are tender, 7 to 8 hours.
3.  Slice the beef across the grain and serve with the vegetables and sauce, sprinkled with the parlsey.  Serve with the bread, if desired.

Serves 4

Compassion Calls...

The other day, while exiting a local fabric store, I was approached by a woman who had "desperation" written all over her frantic face.  She shook in noticeable fear as she asked me if I would like to buy "anything at all" so that her sons could eat that night. She said that she was homeless and living in a hotel, and she was holding a bag of hand-made crafts of some sort.  From her appearance and demeanor, my first instinct was that this woman was on drugs and trying to hustle me, but my heart strings most always get pulled in the other direction--the direction of compassion, empathy and sorrow.  The fact that this woman's situatioin is so far from my daily experience makes me stop in my tracks with the realization of how "lucky" so many of us are...EVERY time.  Sometimes I bow my head and say a silent prayer for these individuals without giving them money, but most often I give something, no matter how small.

I listened to her story and I gave her $5.00 -- I don't know if it was used to buy food or if it bought something illegal.  I pray that my heart's intent prevailed and that she used it in a productive way.  I looked her in the eye and told her that I really hoped for her life to get better.  She thanked me profusely and I walked away.  These incidents always affect me as I choose to live with the awareness of being fortunate and giving back to those who aren't--Hoping always that one small gesture can facilitate the next, and that the pay-it-forward philosophy will prevail over the greed and selfishness that sadly exists in this world.

Aside from the homeless and hunger problem that devastates this world, there are also the countless disasters that unexpectedly occur such as the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan.  Our donations this month will most definitely be sent to the Red Cross to assist with the Japan relief efforts. 

If you are having a day of good fortune, I hope that it only continues for you...please remember those that aren't.  One person can make a difference in the life of another -- this, I know.

"Passion for Positivity"

I am always amazed at how a positive attitude and a positive mind-set really make a difference.  It is always a choice, but some days are harder than others to make that particular choice to see the best in every one and in every thing.  Putting positive thoughts together with positive gestures creates nothing but positive feelings.  We learned that in algebra, right?  A positive + a positive always = a positive! 

When I have rough and challenging days, after complaining a bit usually, I slap myself metaphorically and remind my brain how much better it feels to think positively.  Need I remind you that this blog consists of my opinions, my passions, and my love for those that are in need of love and assistance.  So please do not mistake my verbage for "preaching", rather it is my heart speaking.

Just this morning on the "Today" show, they aired a segment on women who suffer from infertility, and how statistics show that joining a support group can increase their chance of conception by 50%!  I believe that to be caused by the positive feelings one experiences when they connect with a human being whom has been through a similar process (or can relate to their emotional challenges), along with the feeling of "hope" that undoubtedly surrounds a group such as theirs. 

I feel so fortunate to have not had to experience that type of hardship, and I pray for those that are going through it today or have gone through it in the past.  I pray for them to feel encouraged and inspired daily in a way known to them individually.  I know of so many stories where after the focus was taken off of the intent to "make it happen", it happened naturally.  Not for everyone, of course, but for many.  I again attribute that type of outcome to the positive energy surrounding the release of the stress and worry and hardship.  Not easy to do...but it is possible. 

Thank goodness for support groups such as the one that was televised today, along with the countless others.  Whether it be grief, addiction, medical, emotional, or psychological issues, we all experience hardship at some point in our lives, and to be able to share with those that understand is important and so beneficial.  I pray that those who have had hardship and have gotten through it one way or another, can prove to be a blessing to those that are going through some type of hardship currently.  (Along the lines of the "If you are blessed, then please be a blessing to one who needs it"...thank you, Pastor Kenton!)

So, today's post was meant to focus on the hope that those that need it, no matter what the reason, will find the strength to reach out and connect with one who really understands so that the suffering person can gain strength, optimism and determination!  The belief that not only will they get through this, but it will be better on the other end.  The wisdom of life is gained through experience.

I love this following quote which has gotten me through some tough times before.  I love it because it depicts the strength of the human spirit and its ability to get through anything! 

"When you are going through hell, keep on going!"--Winston Churchill

Here is a "comfort food" recipe that I hope will nourish your soul and "positively" nourish your tummies!

Grilled Chicken-and-Bacon Mac 'n' Cheese (Rachel Ray magazine/recipe)
6 slices smoky-bacon (apple wood-smoked, preferably)
Salt and pepper
1 pound whole wheat short-cut pasta
2 pieces skinless, boneless chicken breast, lightly pounded
EVOO (Extra-Virgin olive oil for drizzling)
1/2 tsp. sweet smoked paprika
4 Tablespoons butter
1 large onion, quartered lengthwise and very thinly sliced
2 rounded Tablespoons flour
1/2 cup cloudy apple cider or chicken stock
2 cups whole milk
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded extra-sharp white cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
Chopped flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.  Arrange the bacon on a slotted broiler pan or on a rack placed over a baking sheet and bake until crisp, about 15 minutes.  Chop and reserve.  Switch on the broiler and position the rack in the center of the oven.

Bring a pot of water to a boil, salt it, add the pasta and cook 1 minute less than the instructions indicate, or until just shy of al dente.  Drain and return to the pot.

While the pasta is working, heat a grill pan or cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat.  Drizzle the chicken with EVOO to coat lightly, then season evenly with the paprika, salt and pepper.  Grill the chicken for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally.  Transfer to a cutting board and halve the pieces lengthwise, then thinly slice crosswise.

While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.  Add the onion and cook until light golden and very soft, 15-20 minutes.  Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute.  Whisk in the cider (or stock), then the milk.  Bring to a boil and cook, whisking, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, 3 to 4 minutes.  Add the thyme and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg.  Stir in the cheeses until melted.

Add the chicken, bacon and sauce to the pasta and transfer to a casserole.  Broil until bubbling and browned, about 5 minutes. Garnish with the parsley.

This was a bit time-consuming for us busy Moms, so maybe this would be best on a weekend, especially after sports!  Carb-up, people!  :)  This received a unanimous thumbs-up, and a "Mom, this is the best thing I've ever had in my life!!!"  review from the Sambito household.  May you all enjoy!

"Talking with Terri"

Last weekend, a few of my favorite girlfriends and I embarked on a "Girl's Trip" to beautiful San Francisco to spend time catching up on each other's busy lives, and to nurture the friendship that we hold so dear.  We had a fabulous time eating, drinking, laughing, and of course, we fit in the mandatory "spa day"! 

Spoiled were we, but as I have written, never do I take that for granted.  I am so grateful for these blessings in my life -- blessings of good health, good friendships, good meals and of course shelter.  The blessings of my husband and children deserve a novel of praise, so I will leave them out of this blog entry, but they are always there in my heart!  Speaking of the blessings of good meals and having shelter, I could not help but notice the ENORMOUS homeless problem on the streets of San Francisco!  Saddened to see these poor, lost souls just roaming aimlessly through the streets, sleeping in crevices of buildings, and panhandling for money and food.  Occasionally, the mental illness of so many made itself so apparent.  I am constantly uttering silent prayers when my eyes take witness of their existence compared to mine or so many other fortunate beings.  Why does it have to be this way?  What happened to these people, and at what point in their life did misfortune take a drastic turn for the worse?  I know that I cannot single-handedly solve this problem, but I absolutely believe that it can change for the better with contribution and compassion and effort from those that are able.

As my sister and I were waiting for my friend Lori to bring the car around to pick us up and take us to the airport, a homeless woman approached me with her cup in hand, and asked if I could go with her and "buy her a sandwich".  I wasn't sure that I heard her correctly so I repeated, "Did you say, 'buy you a sandwich'?"  To which she quickly chimed in, "Yes, there is a Quizno's right up the street."  She was looking at the pavement as she spoke as if she were ashamed, so I glanced at my sister with an "I'm doin' this" look, and I put my arm around this woman and said, "Let's go and get you a sandwich!"  She replied with "Thank you, thank you, thank you...", and we ventured on up the street to Quizno's. 

On our short walk, I asked her what her name was.  She said, "My name is Terri", and she smiled.  I had my arm around her shoulders as her head lay low, and I was amazed at the look on other's faces.  Many passers-by gave almost a look of disgust as if they couldn't believe that I would allow myself to get so close to this woman.  It only made me want to hug her closer. 

Once we entered Quizno's, I asked Terri what she would like, and without hesitation she blurted, "The Chicken Bacon-Ranch sandwich, the Broccoli-Cheese soup and some juice!!!"  So that is what we ordered, and with a smile, I paid the nice girl behind the register with a $20.00 bill.  My change was $11.80, and I turned to Terri and placed it in her cup which she was still gripping with hands as black as night from dirt and grime.  I told her that I wanted her to use that money to buy herself some dinner that evening and she was so grateful.  She mentioned that she would use it to purchase a bed at a shelter which goes for about $12.00/night.  I requested that she not spend it on booze or drugs, and she assured me that she has been clean for over a year.  I told her that I would pray for her to find the strength to stay that way. 

After being handed her lunch, I looked her in the eye and told her to pray for her future to be different, and that I would do the same.  I told her that I cared.  She had tears in her eyes and thanked me profusely.  We parted ways, and I looked to the sky and prayed for Terri.  She is a human being that suffers daily.  How easily that could be anyone of us.  No matter how she got to where she is, she is there, and I pray for all in her situation, and more importantly, I pray for people to care. 

As I was walking back toward the hotel, a lady passed me by and said, "That was wonderful what you did back there!"  This lady was a patron of Quizno's during my and Terri's short visit.  Of course that made my heart smile, but I wasn't looking for recognition, rather I hoped for this woman's witness of the gesture to cause a similar experience for one she connects with in the future.

How I wish that I could cook this for Terri...our family enjoyed it so much and I hope that you will too, if you are reading this. 

Fettuccine With Quick Ragu

1/2 onion

1 stalk celery, cut into 4 pieces

1 small carrot, cut into 4 pieces

1 clove garlic

1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound ground veal or turkey

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup whole milk

12 ounces fettuccine

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions


Pulse the onion, celery, carrot, garlic and rosemary in a food processor until finely chopped.


Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped vegetables and cook, stirring, until softened and golden, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the veal, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 3 minutes. Add the tomatoes, milk, 1 cup water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine as the label directs. Drain the pasta, then toss with the ragu.Top with Parmesan.

Recipe from Food Network magazine, December 2010 issue, p. 124.

Italian Recipe from our "Frankie-Frank-Frank"!

OK, so I know that the title of this post is a bit off-the-wall, but once you know the story, it is just all too-appropriate.  My husband played baseball with a wonderful man named Frank LaCorte (pronounced "La-Cortee"), and his gracious family invited us to their Lake Tahoe home on Labor Day weekend 2009 (how time flies!).  We had an absolute blast!  Karen, Frank's wife, is someone whom you would think you have known your whole life as she is so friendly and funny!  We felt so welcomed and we have memories that will always have the LaCorte signature on them!  Can't wait 'til our next get-together!

Anyway, while we were visiting their Tahoe home, Frank made a delicious dinner of steak and chicken for us!  My kids loved him to pieces and quickly named him, "Uncle Frankie-Frank-Frank", and they couldn't have been more eager to hug-up on him when time permitted!  The LaCortes are just the best family and we are so happy for their newest addition:  "Giovanni Vincent" -- a beautiful, healthy grandchild for them!  It is so funny how when our Giovanni was in the womb, the two names that were up for consideration were both, "Giovanni" and "Vincent". 

The recipe posted for today's entry is not an "exact" recipe, rather it comes from none other than "Frankie-Frank-Frank"!  The kids could not get enough of this as the meat just fell off the bone, and I made it for them in Frank's honor.  They loved it all over again!

Chicken Thighs (one package from grocery store)
Salt & Pepper
Can or bottle of beer
Fresh oregano
Fresh rosemary
Lemon wheels (one for each chicken thigh)

Salt and pepper the chicken thighs and grill them until "almost cooked-through" -- you can flip them often which is different when you are grilling steaks or red meat.  Once almost cooked all the way through, place them in an oven-safe casserole dish, and pour a can of beer over them.  Then place a lemon wheel on top of each chicken thigh and sprinkle generously the fresh oregano.  Sprinkle the fresh rosemary over the lemon wheels and cover with foil.  Then place in a 200 degree oven for about two hours.  These are delicious!!!  (Try to venture away from the "chicken breast" mentality, as I know it is the healthier way to go, but the flavor of this recipe is why it is worth it).  We only live once!  Everything in moderation!

Savor of "Sausage & Spaghetti Squash"

Here we were on a wonderful Wednesday, and just getting back into the school routine after a long holiday vacation.  Sophia and I went to the grocery store to pick up the items we needed for this night's recipe and she wanted to do some "scratch-off" Lottery tickets.  (Probably from all the hype recently regarding the $355 million jackpot!)  I told her that since the money to purchase them goes to help the schools, I would buy her a couple to see if she could win.  She of course said, "But Mommy, if you buy me a few more it will double my chance!"  To which I quickly quipped, "Um...that would be a NO."  Sure enough, she won $6.00 from her $1.00 scratch off so we turned to our right and went to the bank teller which is so conveniently located inside our supermarket, and we deposited it into her savings account.  I had given her a dime to use to scratch off the tickets, and she handed it to the teller and said, "Can you please add this dime?"  It was so cute, and I said, "Every little bit counts, sweetheart!"  How fitting for our blog project!  Every little bit of giving counts.

As we departed the store, there was a homeless man asking for donations, and I gave Sophia a dollar bill to put in his bucket.  As she placed it in his bucket, I heard her say, "God Bless You".   And I proudly repeated her words as I looked into his kind eyes.

This recipe is downright delicioso!  It is from the Food Network magazine and you can also find it on the Internet at "FoodNetwork.com".  It was so easy, but I have to warn you about how DIFFICULT it is to halve a raw spaghetti squash!!!  It is like cutting into a rock, and I don't think I could have done it without my husband's help.  It was not easy for him as he carefully hacked away!  Please be mindful of that if you decide to make this, because if you don't have the right knife perhaps you should throw the squash in the microwave for a bit to soften it.  I hope you enjoy this as much as we did!  We didn't need much on the ingredient list as we already had most of what was required, yet we are placing $2.00 in our Contribution Jar for this recipe's 10% cost contribution.

Buon Apetito!

Ingredients:

1 small spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
8 links hot Italian sausage (pork, chicken or turkey; 1 1/2 pounds)
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Directions:
Halve the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Put the squash, cut-side up, in a large microwave-safe bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon water. Season with salt and pepper. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and microwave until tender, about 20 minutes. Scoop out the flesh into a colander (use a towel to hold the squash) and shred with 2 forks.
Meanwhile, heat a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the sausages, turning, until cooked through, about 20 minutes.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper, onion and 1 teaspoon salt and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until the vegetables begin to brown, about 4 more minutes. Toss in the squash and parsley and season with salt and pepper. Serve with the sausages and sprinkle with Parmesan.

"Happy New Year"

Happy New Year one and all!!!  I am so excited as my children and I embark on "Round 2" of our blog project.  Our first year this past 2010 was a blessed experience all the way around!  Not only did my cooking improve, but the hearts of Sophia and Giovanni seemed to get larger--which I did not think was possible.  As I have written, much to the obnoxious extent I am sure, I feel so incredibly fortunate to be the mother of such gracious, and loving souls.  They truly amaze me with their natural care and concern for others.  Their kindness strikes me so often, and I feel the blessing to my very core!

For instance, tonight, while brushing her teeth, Sophia spontaneously blurts:  "Mommy!  I am going to change the world this year!"  I giggled and said, "I am sure that you will!  Tell me what you have in mind, other than our blog project, of course, " to which she quickly responded, "I have a few ideas that I am 'working' on."   I just pray that this passion for life and for helping others only permeates deeper with each passing day so that it will always be part of their character.

For this year's first recipe post, I thought it would be a good idea to share a wonderful appetizer as it is Superbowl time approaching and everyone always needs a good and EASY appetizer to bring along to the festivities.  My cousin gave me this one and it is NOT on the low-cal list, that is for certain.  But, we can all hopefully enjoy the sinful parts of eating every now and then...after all, life is too short not to!

I hope you all enjoy this!

1-Sourdough bread round, hollowed out with the lid kept for baking.
1-8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup fresh salsa
2 cups cheddar cheese.


Mix all of the above together and place into hollowed Sourdough and place bread lid on top.  Wrap in foil and bake on a cookie sheet for 1 1/2 hours at 400 degrees farenheit.  Serve with fresh cut yellow and red peppers (there, now there's the healthy part).  For Christmas, I served it with red and green peppers.  :)

Enjoy each day and remember:  "Your life is an occasion -- rise to it!" (Dustin Hoffman from "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium")

Helping the Homeless and Hungry

Here are the angels packing up the boxes of food that are going to help the hungry families right here in Orange County.  Our church is so wonderful in its ministries to help the poor and needy.  Being that our family's mission is the same, we of course had to share in this donation.  Every time we encounter a volunteer outside of a store asking for donations, both of my children light up with eagerness and determination to help.  "Mommy, we have to give to that!", squeals Giovanni, to which Sophia responds, "Yes, Mommy, we absolutely do!"  I am confident that this blog project has achieved its initial objective of raising their awareness, and is now venturing on into the world of active giving.  I planted the seed, it sprouted, and is growing more and more each day.  I couldn't be more proud, and I couldn't be more honored to watch my children unfold into the generous charitable souls that they were intended to be.

I know that I have not had too many vegetarian recipes on here, so here is an AWESOME one...great for a party buffet.  This is published in the "THE BEST OF fine cooking FRESH & QUICK 2010"; No. 37.

tomato salad with feta, olives, and mint

6 oz. feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint, plus sprigs for garnish
4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
Kosher salt
1/2 lb. cucumber, peeled, seeded, and cut into small dice
1/2 lb. bite-size tomatoes in assorted colors, halved
1/2 cup Nicoise or Kalmata olives (about 15), pitted and halved
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest
4 tsp. fresh lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper

Crumble the feta into a small bowl.  Add the chopped mint and toss; set aside.
Season the tomato slices with salt and then arrange them, overlapping slightly, on a serving platter.  Sprinkle the cucumber over the tomato slices.  Season the bite-size tomatoes with salt and scatter them over the cucumber.  Sprinkle the olives on top.
In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.  Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad. 
To serve, scatter the feta over the salad, garnish with the mint sprigs, and serve immediately.
Serves 6.

"Give A Little Bit..."

So in church this past Sunday, I was so happy when I heard its message for that day!  The message that was broadcast to thousands was that if we all just gave a little, just think of what a difference that can make!  In the very first entry of this blog, I mentioned that not only would that make a difference, but just think how "possible" that is!  I think that too many think along the lines of, "Well, I don't have much, so I really cannot make that much of a difference."  YES, YOU CAN!  There are so many ways to be giving and charitable.  Perhaps it entails buying a hungry person a meal, or cleaning out your closet to donate clothes to the impoverished, or leaving a bit of an extra tip to a food-server who may be barely able to pay their bills in this economy...no matter what the action, the value lies in the fact that you took the time to embark on it.  We have all heard that "Every little bit helps," and it is true.  Provided that it is being given to the right people, the right organizations, every little bit makes a positive difference.  Without action, there can be no change. 

Our church, Mariners, has embarked on a ten-year journey, and has challenged its members to hop aboard and give a little bit more to see if we can change the poverty levels in Orange County so that no child goes hungry, no child goes uneducated, and no one is left homeless.  With God, this is possible.  But, I believe that God uses people to fulfill his purpose.  That is the concept of "free will" -- surely, He can intervene at any time and utilize His majestic power to make things as He wants them to be, but He is hoping that we will figure it out.  Some may call it a test, I call it following His desire.  Now I know that there may be Agnostics or Atheists reading this and you may be uncomfortable or in disagreement with my references to God, but please know that we are all in this world together and we can all do our part to make it a better place.  My beliefs belong to me, and I would never purport to tell another "what to believe"; However, I would be remiss if I did not give praise where I believe praise is due...I have been blessed and I am forever grateful for the abundance that has been given.  So please do not be turned off by my faith, because it won't make a bit of difference to the world if we have a disagreement as to what we believe.  What will make a difference is if we can together alleviate suffering, hunger, or strife in the life of another by choosing to be generous. 

In giving, even if you don't think that you have made a difference, I promise you that you have.  One of my favorite quotes is, "To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you just may be the world!"

So here's to the courage to believe that you can change even the slightest bit of some one's life in a positive and magnificent way by giving a little, no matter how small!  And for you, the blessings shall unfold...

"Waste Not"

In deciding what to make for last night's meal, I inquisitively scanned my pantry for "ideas"...ideas based on what ingredients I already had in my possession.  I saw an unopened box of manicotti, which was left over from a huge Italian family dinner, as well as the knowledge that I had tons of frozen Italian sausage and fresh Ricotta cheese left over as well.  I then went to the Internet and searched  for a recipe of "Sausage-Stuffed Manicotti" and I found one that was not only easy to prepare, but delicious at the same time.  Giovanni yelled, "Mama - I LOVE IT!...This gets a HUGE thumbs-up from me!  Sophia and Giovanni both had two helpings as did their Daddy.  He quoted that this was "really" good!

I had a comforting feeling as I prepared this meal knowing that we were utilizing what we had in our cupboards and refrigerator, rather than allowing it to go unused, which sometimes tends to happen.  I am always attempting to make the children aware of how we should not waste, and how we need to remember how blessed we are.  Blessed with the ability to buy food, the blessing of shelter and family, and blessed with our health.  That awareness went into each step of preparation for this meal, and we mentioned it in our blessing beforehand.

We are closing in on September and we have roughly $85.00 in our jars.  We are going to donate to Families Forward this month since they are so wonderfully successful in helping families that are experiencing struggle of many sorts.  If every family who is blessed with good fortune were to donate something to a family less fortunate, I am convinced that it would make a difference.  It leaves a mark on some one's soul when they know that they are cared about in perhaps their lowest moments.  I believe that such an experience is never forgotten, rather remembered forever.  Often times, it is the catalyst to a future good deed by the one that was helped in the first place.  For instance, on a recent date night with my husband, he mentioned that he had bought a homeless person on the street a hamburger while on a business trip.  He said, "You know, Jenn, honestly I don't know if I would have stopped to take the time to do that before this blog.  You have me thinking about it!"  To which I replied, "Honey, I love that!  And to think of how he was once some one's newborn...what is his story?  What happened during his life to which led to his homelessness?"  Joe replied, "You know, that is a good point...the next time I do that, maybe I'll sit down and have a conversation with that person."  That made my heart smile.  Sure, if one is intoxicated and obliterated, or mentally ill on the streets, sitting down and having a conversation is not going to be productive or perhaps "safe", but there are many that are sober and hungry and lost.  Caring about another goes much farther than our eyes can see.

Here is the recipe for you all to enjoy:

"Laurie's Stuffed Manicotti"

1 lb. mild bulk pork sausage (For all the vegetarians, you can simply skip this ingredient and it would still be delightful!)
2 (15 oz.) cans Hunt's Italian tomato sauce
1 ( 6 oz.) can Hunt's tomato paste
1/4 c. water
1/2 TBSP. packed light brown sugar
1 (15 oz.) container ricotta cheese
3 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg
1 tsp. parsley flakes
12 manicotti noodles, cooked, rinsed, and drained
Grated Parmesan cheese

In a large saucepan, brown sausage, drain.  Remove half of sausage, set aside.  Stir tomato sauce, paste, water and brown sugar into sausage, simmer 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine remaining sausage, ricotta, 2 cups mozzarella, egg and parsley.

In a 9x13x2 inch baking dish, pour 1/3 of sauce mixture.  Stuff manicotti noodles with ricotta mixture and place on top of sauce.  Pour remaining sauce over stuffed noodles.  Top with remaining mozzarella, sprinkle with Parmesan.  Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

"Courageous Souls"

"Courage" is a word that often describes one's attempt at something frightening or uncomfortable.  However, it also describes one's heart or one's soul.  I have been blessed to know many courageous people in my life...one of which is our dear friend, Paul Snyder.  He is the most loving, generous, and compassionate soul. He endured a horrible bicycle accident three and a half years ago that left him partially paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair.  He has had numerous setbacks due to extreme pain and complication -- something that as he puts it, "...just goes along with every spinal cord injury."  He is optimistic and is married to "Sally Lou" whom I admire and love more than words can express.  These two individuals are the epitome of friendship and love.  Both Paul and Sally are true humanitarians who have been involved in so many philanthropic endeavors.  The world needs more like them for sure!  I pray for Paul's recovery and I have had several dreams that vividly show him walking again.  For those of you that know me, I have been known to have many a "psychic moment", so I choose to believe that this will happen.  I pray for it often.

I also pray for those miners trapped in Chile.  My friend (and overly-generous contributor to this blog project), Nancy, shared the story with me of what these men have endured.  I make it a point not to read the newspaper because it is depressive and pessimistic all around...not how I like to begin my day! Nancy is another one that exemplifies a gorgeous human spirit!  I just knew that when she met Paul and Sally, they would just hit it off!  Nancy called me after a recent get-together, where Paul and Sally were also present, and she said, "I just LOVED them!"  I do not believe that anyone would ever say otherwise.   Those poor miners in the caves of Chile must be so scared, and I am praying that they have the courage to believe in their rescue and survival...thank God that they are alive, and I just hope that the heroes involved in the rescue attempts also allow their courage to prevail!

If only each and every one of the fortunate individuals on this planet could be courageous enough to trust that when one gives, they receive so much in return.  It is as if God just opens your heart and douses it with love -- it is a great feeling.  And, I truly believe that the reason it feels so good is because it is exactly how He wants it.  God's greatest gift is the ability to love and care for others.  Sorry for any atheists or agnostics out there -- obviously we will disagree on this point, but I invite you to put it to the test -- what do you have to lose?

CHEESY VEGETABLE POLENTA

Ingredients:

2 cans (14.5 oz. each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

1/4 cup pesto

1 medium-size onion, chopped

1 medium-size green pepper, seeded & chopped

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 tube (18 oz.) prepared polenta, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices (about 14)

3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 1/2 cups shredded Italian-blend cheese

4 cups chopped radicchio

2 plum tomatoes, thinly sliced

1.  In a large bowl, stir together the beans, 2 Tablespoons of the pesto, onion, green pepper and Italian seasoning.  Place half of bean mixture in bottom of slow cooker.  Layer half of polenta slices over top, pour 1/4 cup chicken broth over polenta then sprinkle with 3/4 cup cheese.  Repeat layering one more time.  Cover and cook for 2 hours on HIGH or 4 1/2 hours on LOW.

2.  Stir together remaining 2 Tablespoons pesto and remaining 1/4 cup chicken broth.  Pour pesto mixture into slow cooker, add radicchio and gently stir to combine.  Place tomato slices on top and continue cooking for another 30 minutes on HIGH or LOW.  Serve immediately. 

(Makes 8 servings).

"Meaningful Mail"

So I received a post-card in the mail addressed to "Jennifer Fambito", and I had to chuckle..."Family" is the most important thing to me, and it is funny that when I read "Fambito", I quickly resorted to the copy-guy on Saturday Night Live and muttered to myself, "Fambito....Fambaroni...Fambarito...FAMBITO!"...and then I quickly realized that it resembled "family".  So feel free to call me "Jennifer Fambito" anytime so long as you are referring to me as family-oriented.  Upon closer look, however, I noticed that it was a post-card from the American Red Cross informing me that our donation to Haiti was received and acknowledged.  Little do those wonderful Red Cross members know that we also sent that additional $200.00 to our new friend Johanne's mother so that a newborn baby will have milk to drink.  So, we have contributed doubly to Haiti...now we pray that everyone can do the same and that God will just "double" the blessings on those affected by that horrible tragedy.  So much suffering goes on in this world, both locally and globally...if only every single able-minded person could realize that even the slightest bit of help can make a difference....this world would surely be a different and much better place.

So, here is a wonderful recipe that we enjoyed not too long ago, from the "Cooking With Paula Deen" magazine, July/August 2010 edition, titled "OVEN-FRIED POTATO CHIP-CRUSTED CHICKEN"...needless to say, it was heavenly, and I only wish that I could have fed it to the people who really need it.  Perhaps someday I will have that opportunity.  Until then, we will continue to contribute locally to the hungry from the costs of our cooking, and hopefully make some sort of difference in that realm.

1/3 cup Dijon mustard

1/4 cup butter, melted

1 (5 oz.) bag thin and crispy potato chips, finely crushed

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 Tablespoons minced fresh rosemary

1 teaspoon salt

6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.  Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.  Place a cooling rack over baking sheet; spray with nonstick cooking spray.

In a shallow dish, combine mustard and melted butter.  In a separate shallow dish, combine crushed potato chips, cheese, rosemary, and salt.

Brush chicken breasts with mustard mixture.  Dredge in potato chip mixture to coat.  Place on prepared cooling rack, and let stand for 20 minutes to set crust.

Bake for 35 to 50 minutes or until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.  Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Making a Difference

On a recent trip to a San Diego Marriott with my husband and children, I ran into a Marriott employee who I met and became friendly with on this summer's teaching travels.  His name is Paulo, and we had great conversations back in June about this blog project and how making a difference in the lives of others is so necessary!  He became a follower of this blog, and I haven't seen him since our initial meeting.  So, obviously when seeing him on this short visit to San Diego last week, I was so happy to introduce him to my family.  He is a great young man, who has a giving heart and who made a comment to me this last week that revealed how this project is working...one small step at a time.  Paulo said to me, "You know, I have to tell you, that ever since meeting you, every time I have gone to McDonald's, I have bought a hamburger for a homeless person outside and thought of you."  I screeched, "Paulo - that is wonderful!!!  That is what it is all about!"  We both acknowledged how good it felt to feed someone in need.  Paulo, if you are reading, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being so generous...you have shared your story with me and it has fueled my mission even more.

Here is a great summer recipe that I made the other day which was so fitting for an outdoor barbeque:  It is from the Food Network magazine, September 2010 issue.  It was so delicious!  It is called "Anne Burrell's Super-Zesty Potato Salad".

Ingredients

2 pounds red bliss potatoes

3 cloves garlic, smashed

2 tablespoons olive oil

6 slices bacon, cut into lardons

1 red onion, diced

3 ribs celery, diced

1/2 cup red wine vinegar

Kosher salt

1 1/2 cups homemade mayonnaise (recipe to follow)

1/2 cup Dijon mustard

Directions

Cut the potatoes in quarters and place in a large pot, add the garlic and cover the potatoes by about 2 inches with water. Season generously with salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork tender, about 20 minutes.

While the potatoes are cooking, put 2 tablespoons olive oil into a saute pan, add the bacon and bring to a medium-high heat. Cook the bacon until it is brown and crispy. Remove from the heat and add the onions, celery and vinegar. Season with salt and reserve.

When the potatoes are fork tender, drain them from the water and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. While the potatoes are still hot add the bacon-onion mixture. Stir to incorporate. Add the Mayonnaise and stir to combine. TASTE for seasoning and stir in the mustard. Add more salt, if needed.

Zesty!

Homemade Mayonnaise:

*2 egg yolks

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Kosher salt

1 1/2 cups neutrally flavored oil (vegetable, canola, peanut)

Place the egg yolks in the bowl of the food processor and add the vinegar and mustard. Season with salt, to taste. Turn the machine on and VERY slowly start to drizzle in the oil. Drip, drip, drip until the mixture starts to look like mayonnaise, then a slow steady stream of oil can be added.

Cook's Note: If the mayonnaise is too thick add a few drops of water or if it is not thick enough, with the machine running, add a little more oil.

"Homage to Haiti"

Today we mailed money to our friend Johanne, from Haiti, whom I recently met on a business trip to Chicago.  If you are following this blog, then you know her story.  She is currently living in Chicago with a host family so that she can attend school, and she is one of nine (9) children in her family from Haiti.  In our first conversation, Johanne informed me that she has a 16 year-old sister who is pregnant as a result of rape, and this sister is living with the remainder of Johanne's family in a small village in Haiti.  This unborn, innocent soul is scheduled to be born this August, and Johanne informed me that her mother was very scared about not being able to feed this baby.  Johanne's family lives in a small village, and they are very poor.  Well, I believe it to be no accident that we were assigned seats next to one another on this recent business trip.  My desire to help others with less than me, combined with the sole purpose of this blog project all just came together in perfect harmony.  If you notice the quote at the top of this blog: "Nourishing the hungry while feeding my family...", this story just couldn't have been scripted any better!  I was determined to send our next donation to this village in Haiti so that this baby at least had some nourishment from our efforts.  I was apprehensive about sending a money order directly to her mother, as I am unaware of how Customs or the Haitian government operates, and I feared that she might never see it.  I discussed this with Johanne, and she informed me that they have a family friend who is in Chicago who will be soon be traveling to Haiti to see Johanne's family.  This friend will be visiting Johanne soon in order to receive things to take to Johanne's mother when said friend goes to Haiti at the end of this month.  So, call it foolish, but we sent cash directly to Johanne to be given to her friend to deliver to her mother.  The passing of the baton so to speak.  We had $160.00 in our "Donations Jar", and we added an additional $40.00 so that we sent $200.00 in total.  Johanne's words:  "Oh, Jennifer, my mother is going to be sooooo happy -- she can at least have some peace because of you...you beautiful person."  To which I replied, "It is my sincere pleasure to help in some small way, and you are actually helping me and my children by giving us this opportunity."  We agreed to talk soon, and I hung up the phone with such a complexity of wonderful emotions...it is true that when you give, you are the one being blessed.

"Marvelous Mushroom Risotto"

We are back in action!  I have missed cooking and blogging so much while away on the road, or while being a "single mom" while my husband has had to be away on business travel.  I enjoy cooking for my husband so much because having "family dinners" is so important to me, and is essential to a healthy childhood for our children.

We have been collecting our donations for a while now, and this next donation is actually going to go to a village in Haiti.  I met a lovely young lady on a recent flight to Chicago whom is living with a host family here in the states while she attends school.  She is one of nine children, and comes from a village in Haiti.  She informed me that her sister is 16 (and pregnant as a result of a rape), and the sister is looking to give the child up for adoption so that she can attend school.  I made the announcement during my Chicago lecture asking if anyone was interested in adopting or knew of anyone that was...sure enough, a gentleman came up to me at the break asking for the information as his friend was very interested in adopting a baby from Haiti!  This is how God works...people helping people.  I am sending our monthly donation to my new friend's mother in Haiti because this grandchild is expected to be born later this month.  Any little bit can help.  I will be comforted knowing that there will be food or assistance provided for this child as a result of our donation. 

The blog's primary purpose for those that follow is to teach the importance of "giving" to my children, while enhancing their palates all the while.  Although the recipes have not been a "daily-making" lately, the lessons have been in full-throttle for Sophia and Giovanni.  Every chance I get, I introduce them to the opportunity of "choosing" generosity and compassion.  For instance, we were cleaning out their dresser drawers the other day, and I asked them what we should do with the clothes that they have outgrown, and almost in unison, they blurted, "Give 'em to the Village of Hope, Mama!"  Thank you, sweet Lord above, for sending your angels to be my children.  I hope you are proud of their loving hearts! 

Here is a wonderful recipe that I made the other night to accompany grilled chicken and steamed veggies...

MUSHROOM RISOTTO WITH WHITE WINE

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 garlic clove

8 oz. fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced

1 tsp. dried thyme leaves

1/4 tsp. dried rosemary

1 Tablespoon minced fresh parsley

1 1/2 cups dry white wine

2 cups Arborio rice

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

6 to 8 cups hot Chicken Stock

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1.  In a large frying pan melt 2 Tablespoons butter with olive oil over medium heat.  Add 1/2 cup onion and garlic and cook until the onion is soft, 2 to 3 minutes.  Stir in mushrooms and cook until lightly browned, 3 to 4 minutes.  Stir in thyme, rosemary, and parsley.  Add 1/2 cup wine and cook until wine is absorbed, about 2 minutes.  Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.  Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

2.  Melt remaining 2 Tablespoons butter in a large heavy saucepan over medium heat.  Cook remaining 1/2 cup onion until soft, about 3 minutes.  Add remaining 1 cup wine and cook over high heat until reduced to 1/2 cup, 4-5 minutes.  Add rice, salt, and pepper and stir to coat evenly, allowing wine to be absorbed.  Add 2 cups chicken stock, reduce heat to medium, and stir until stock is absorbed, 5-6 minutes.  Continue to add as much stock as needed, 1 cup at a time, stirring, until rice is creamy and tender but still firm in center.  Process should take 15-18 minutes from time you add first stock.  Stir in reserved mushrooms.  Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.  Pass remaining Parmesan cheese on the side.

Enjoy!  This was given thumbs-up all around!

Where Have I Been?

I have had to take a temporary pause from the daily cooking as my business travels, along with my husband's, have made it quite tough to do.  This is my busy teaching season where I teach law all across the country for a bar review course, preparing students to pass their respective bar exams.  And my husband, well, he is always needing to travel to see the people he represents in their baseball careers.  We are so blessed to have flexibility in our jobs, yet it makes it quite stressful at times when we cannot all be together.  Needless to say, I have been sharing the "Cooking To Contribute" endeavor with all that I meet, and I have made some wonderful friends along the way.  I have been contributing in other ways, as I always make a conscious effort to do some good in each day that God has given us.

For instance, I bought a military service man a meal and a beer when I noticed him sitting next to me in the airport restaurant.  I noticed his backpack with his name embroidered along with "UNITED STATES ARMY" in bold type.  I looked at him and said, "Thank you so much for all that you do for us here in America...can I please buy you dinner as a token of my and my family's appreciation?"  He replied, in his oh-so-respectful demeanor, "Ma'am, I would appreciate that and I am honored to do what I do."  With that, and a lump in my throat, I told the waiter to please put it on my tab. 

When I see the individuals outside of the grocery store with their metal box on the table asking for donations to "Help the Homeless", how can I resist?  Even if it is some spare change, every little bit helps.  And if for some unjustified reason, I am being ripped off or conned, I lay no worry on that possibility because it is not up to me to judge.  The Man upstairs knows one's heart, and I wish that we all, as a population, could take some pause each day to realize that it is so possible to "give" to one who has less than you...it is actually quite joyful and comforting.  The head pastor at our church always says, "The greatest blessing in giving is that you are the one being blessed."  When you give and sincerely care about others, it truly does touch your heart.

With my children at the forefront of this project, I am seeing the positive progress in my message of the importance of giving.  At the drug store yesterday, the cashier asked me if I wanted to donate to Lou Gehrig's disease research, and before I could even think about it, Sophia piped in with, "Mom!  Yes, we want to do that."  So, we did.

Please keep following as some yummy recipes are sure to be back soon...

I wish you all a day filled with love, good news, good health, beautiful weather and a full and grateful tummy!  :)

So Grateful To Be Called "MOM"

Yesterday was Mother's Day, and one of the best days in my life as a Mom.  The four of us (Joe, myself, Sophia and Giovanni) began the day with church, and went on to a wonderful lunch filled with so many "I love yous" and "We couldn't be what we are without you"s, that I felt more loved and needed than I ever imagined possible.  This job, this blessing, this responsibility, this wonderment--all referring to "Motherhood", is the most abundant existence there is.  A heart has no limits when it comes to love, and when you look into the eyes of your child, the "you" as you used to know it, is changed forever.  Forever changed by the magic and innocence of a child, and the natural appreciation for this angelic soul that God has placed in your care.  My silent talks within my soul each day begin and end with "Thank you, Lord...I am so grateful that you found me worthy to be their Mother."

In Friday's mail, I found an appreciation letter from the Orange County Rescue Mission for our recent donation.  Along with that was a factual depiction of how overwhelmed their shelter is due to the hundreds of people losing their jobs and homes in this economic crisis.  So, April and May's collections will be again donated there to help our local families that are struggling.  We pray that our small monetary contributions will help even the tiniest bit to relieve someone's suffering.  I will continue "cooking to contribute" to this worthy cause.  I love a sign that I see a few times a week at Giovanni's pre-school...it sums it up perfectly:  "Here I am Lord...Use me!"

Just as I hoped and envisioned, my children are catching on to how necessary this giving aspect is. Sophia asked me yesterday, "Mama, remember those children that we saw at Village of Hope--the ones that were playing on the playground?" I replied with, "Yes, sweetheart, I sure do," to which she pleaded, "Mama, please tell me that they have a school to go to."  I assured her that the public school system makes sure that they get to attend school, and that her donations and clothes will help to feed those children and give them something to wear to school.  She nodded confidently and smiled once again as if she was proud...proud to help one in need. 

Here is a yummy recipe that the family enjoyed...again, anything with pasta is a sure hit.  This was simple and great as left-overs as well:

"Chicken and Prosciutto Pasta"

Ingredients:
Non-stick cooking spray
6 oz. dried penne pasta (approx. 2 cups)
1 Tablespoon olive oil
12 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1/2-inch strips
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 oz. prosciutto, coarsely chopped
1/2 of a medium green sweet pepper, cut into bite-size strips
1/2 of a medium yellow sweet pepper, cut into bite-size strips
1 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
1 tablespoon capers, drained
1 15-oz. container refrigerated marinara sauce
1 10-oz. container refrigerated Alfredo sauce
1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

1. Coat a 2-quart casserole with cooking spray.  Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.  Return to saucepan.
2.  Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.  Add chicken and garlic; cook and stir for 2 minutes.  Add prosciutto, sweet pepper strips, basil, and, capers.  Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink and pepper is crisp-tender.  Add to pasta in saucepan; mix well.
3.  Layer half of the pasta mixture in prepared casserole.  Top with 1 cup of the marinara sauce.  Top with remaining pasta mixture, and the Alfredo sauce.  Drizzle with remaining marinara sauce.  Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
4.  Bake, uncovered, in a 350 degree oven for 25-35 minutes or until heated through.  Makes 6 servings. 
--This recipe was from Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publications 2010  titled "Ultimate Chicken".

"Call For Action"

I was watching the Oprah Winfrey episode last Friday where she declared a "Call For Action" regarding distracting driving due to the use of cell phones.  Statistics state that texting or utilizing your cell phone while driving is equivalent to driving drunk--with a blood alcohol level two times above the normal.  That is shocking to say the least as drunk driving is such a horrible epidemic! 

Those of you that read my blog know how I believe that each and everyone of us can make a positive difference in the lives of others--Oprah has done so much of that for so many, over so many years...and hopefully she will have more accolades because of her drawing attention to this problem.

As my baby sister had to learn yesterday that her childhood friend died from a heroin overdose, I believe that a HUGE call for action is needed regarding substance addiciton in our youth population.  So many lives are shortened by this horrible epidemic and such pain and sorrow are left behind.  A mother and father should never have to bury their child...my stomach clenches at how horrific that experience must be.  We have dear family friends that had to bury their son after the Taliban took him from the mountains in Afghanistan while fighting for our freedom here and abroad, and I will never forget the phone call informing me of that fact.  Every generation has their "Do you remember what you were doing when you found out about...?"  Well I believe that these tragedies, whether they be war-related or drug-related or health-related or catastrophic situations, are happening at far too rapid a speed.  Our youth are having their childhoods eradicated--so much is exposed to them at far too young an age thanks to the internet, and drug cartels.

I pray that the family of this twenty year old woman can find strength and some sort of peace someday.  Never will this tragedy be understood...my heart aches for them, and for any other family that has had to experience the loss of a loved one at much too young of an age.

Please appreciate life, and honor its fragility and preciousness.  We all need to be grateful for the time we have here and live with purpose. 

I suppose the message in today's blog is recognizing a needed "Call For Action" when it comes to someone sick with addiction or someone in need of obvious help.  I pray that courage will enter each and every heart if there is a time when it is needed--especially in order to intervene with something serious.  I pray that love and care will abound, and that there can be hope placed in the hearts of those who have lost it.

"Hope is faith holding out its hand in the dark."--George Iles

"Earthly Compassion"

On Earth Day especially, our thoughts turn to our planet and all of its glory with the hope and concern that it will endure far beyond our comprehension of years.  However, when I think of the earth, I think of all of its inhabitants and how we all need to do our part in caring for one another.  I recently sent out an email to all in my contact list asking for clothing donations so that we could deliver an abundance of blessings to a local rescue mission here in Orange County called "Village of Hope".  Village of Hope is a part of the Orange County Rescue Mission, and if you are interested in learning more about what this wonderful organization is accomplishing, please take a look at their website:  http://www.rescuemission.org/.

Well, the response that I received was awesome to say the least as I would come home day after day and find bags of clothing on my porch. Thank you so much for anyone who donated as you are assisting me in the teaching of this very important virtue to my children, but you are more importantly clothing many individuals who genuinely need it!  Here we are, about to set out to deliver these gracious donations...

What an awesome experience to get out of the car and have the mission volunteer say to me, "Hold on, I need to get a bigger container!", when he saw all that was in the back of my car.  He brought out a wood flat with a large container where we placed all of the clothes, shoes, and toys.  I wanted the kids to pose by the container so that they could get a visual of the "giving" aspect and how wonderful it feels.  A forklift then appeared and drove the container into the warehouse.  Giovanni wanted to see what was in there as he is fascinated with forklifts.  We went to the door, and he and Sophia looked up in awe at the stacks and stacks of shelves with boxes, containers, food, etc.  I explained how all of what they saw is going to help families and individuals someday soon in order to make their lives happier.  A certain smile appeared on their face as if to confirm that they not only understood, but felt as if they were a part of that.  Mission accomplished.