Always Something New to Try!

...be it a recipe, project, book to read, place to visit, or something else, I find that I am continuously discovering new things to try. Today's discovery was a recipe for pinto bean fudge. I created a keyword search for pinto bean recipes and encountered several dessert recipes that include pinto beans. I am so intrigued, I may just have to try making brownies or fudge with pinto beans. What a clever way to include more fiber in a fun way. I wonder what my dad would think? I'm not sure I'd tell anyone not allergic till AFTER they try the treats. What do you think?

It reminds me of the miniature carrot drop cookies my mother made when i was little. I absolutely must determine where i saved that recipe because I want them rather badly. I remember taking these to school, complete with a sweet orange glaze icing, and sharing them with friends but not telling them till after they said "YUM!" that they actually had carrots in them! Leave it to a mom to make something "good for you" taste good enough to get people to actually eat it.

I have a few other tasks this week to which i must attend, but i promise to update with candid commentary regarding anything i try with the pintos. I welcome your suggestions and favorites, as well.

Have a bright week!

April Fool's--a little late?

Upstate New Yorkers are used to some pretty crazy weather, but many were caught by surprise yesterday. You see, many of us are familiar with expressions like "In like a lion, out like a lamb" for March and even "If you don't like the weather, wait a few minutes--it'll change!" but yesterday, the best I could think of to describe the day was "April Fool!" because we got, according to the local news, "The biggest snowstorm of the season."   While that's technically true, we had an incredibly mild winter so this late "storm" was most shocking simply because it was, well, LATE. After such a mild winter, and even summer-like temperatures in March, some areas saw accumulation of heavy, wet SNOW yesterday. Some saw tree damage, power outages, and deep puddles. I saw a deep, slushy mess that warranted a "personal safety" decision not to walk down the street at 6am. Even more amazing, most of the evidence of yesterday's precipitation had vanished by this afternoon! I suppose this is further evidence of the importance of both dressing in layers and allowing oneself enough lead time before morning departure to ensure proper assessment of immediate surroundings. Hope you had as much fun as I did experiencing it--I got to take a vacation day to read, write and relax.

Thank You, Gentle Readers

Thank you, Gentle Readers, for your patience with my previously inconsistent schedule and style of writing. After reflecting today about that which brings me joy and value, I recommit to write regularly. Sometimes I fail to hold myself fully accountable unless that accountability extends beyond myself. Whether there be one or many of you today or in future, I will assume that someone is expecting a new post at least once a week. This begins as an exercise for me but I hope it will enable all who encounter it to grow as well. If it generates joy, new ideas and projects, or income, all the better...for today, it suffices that I have taken a decisive next step on my journey and invite you to join me if you like.

Peace, Love, and Bright Days!
~pma