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Valentine’s Day Beef Stroganoff and Cherry Delight

This delicious Stroganoff is a classic and is fairly simple to make. It’s included in my (proposed) book; A Caterer’s Handbook. While the Stroganoff is cooking, boil the water for the noodles, add them at the very last while the sauce is heating through. The Cherry Delight can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
 

BEEF STROGANOFF

Dissolve in
2 1/2 C hot water
3 beef boullion cubes
set aside. Cut into 3/4″ x 3″ slices
2 lbs. beef tenderloin or sirloin steak
Melt
3 TBSP. butter
in a skillet, sauté
½ lb. sliced mushrooms
remove and set aside. In same skillet, brown beef. Reserve
2/3 C. beef broth
stir into skillet remaining broth and
1/3 C. dried onion
¼ C. catsup
1 ½ tsp. garlic salt
Cover and simmer 15 minutes. Blend together remaining broth and
1/3 C. flour
Stir into meat, add sautéed mushrooms, heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir one minute. Add
2 C. low fat sour cream
Heat through. Cook 8 –10 oz. medium noodles as directed on package. Serve with Stroganoff.
6 – 8 servings
 
This is a light, creamy cheesecake style dessert that people rave over.
CHERRY DELIGHT 
Preheat oven to 400°
Crust
Mix together as for piecrust
2 C flour
1 C butter, softenened
1 C chopped nuts
½ C brown sugar
Press into 9 x 13” pan, bake for 15 min.
Turn out of pan onto waxed paper, crumble and pat back into pan. Chill
Filling
Whip in a chilled bowl
1 C whipping cream
¼ C powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
Set aside. Cream
16 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 C powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Fold into whipped cream, spread over crust. Pour over
2 cans cherry pie filling
Refrigerate 12 hours, keeps several days in refrigerator. Serves 15
 
 

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Sherman, set the Wayback Machine for 1619…

My ancestor,  William Tracy, came from England to America in 1619 to serve as Governor of the Berkeley Colony in Virginia. The company’s charter gave them instructions to kneel and give thanks when they arrived; and every year thereafter. America’s first Thanksgiving was held in Virginia one year before the Pilgrims arrived in Massachusetts in 1620.

 Last month on my birthday we traveled to Andrew and Annie’s house in Virginia, where they live just a few minutes away from the “plantation”,  home of the Tracys 394 years ago.
William died in 1620, his wife, daughter and her husband were killed by Native Americans in the Indian Massacre of 1622. His one surviving son was sent back to England to learn a trade.
 

Andrew, Tim and I stand outside the gates of the Berkeley Plantation, near where our first
 “American ” immigrant ancestors landed almost 400 years earlier.
Andrew, an American soldier, discovered that “Taps” was composed at the Berkeley Colony in 1862.
Next stop, Colonial Williamsburg….
This was the capitol of Virginia until Thomas Jefferson moved it to Richmond.

 

Are you going to forget my birthday card next year? I think not….

 This King James Bible was a gift from the King of England to the Episcopal Church in America. Teddy Roosevelt commissioned this ornate stand to support and display the Bible. Lady Liberty stands with one foot on North America and one foot on Europe. Photo courtesy of Newell McMurtry

The newer areas of Colonial Willaimsburg are delightfully decorated for Christmas – this store reminded us of grandaughter Brynn (“Binns”). The boys and I stopped at Williams Sonoma for a sample of hot cocoa and English toffee while Newell inspected tartan plaids at a Scottish import shop.
This old house was only about eight feet deep!

These trees appeared to have been transplanted from a hobbit yard in the Shire.

Tim is standing near the Capitol in Washington DC where we stopped on New Year’s Eve hoping to see the American Constitution. We arrived too late to view the document, but were able to see the Senate in session. There were a handful of Senators on the floor, presumably more arrived later to work on the “fiscal cliff” problem. The fleet of black SUVs parked around the building looked like they were out of a spy movie.
 P.S. Did I mention I saw Dorothy’s ruby slippers at the Smithsonian?
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Time For A Climate Change: Civility and Respect; A Remedy to Bullying and Hate

While bullying and hate crimes fill the news and desrupt the peaceful environment we long for; we may wonder what are the remedies? Some people strive to do the right thing; to please God, be an ethical person, to help others… there are myriads of reasons; social, emotional, physical. We may wish to help, but not know how to teach and encourage respect through our actions. For answers we turn to the scriptures, look to the examples of Jesus Christ. We may read Plato or Buddha, C.S. Lewis or other philosophers.

Last night as the storms raged, I sat in a Diversity and Health class at the University of Utah listening to a wise teacher construct a framework of respect that will be adhered to in her classroom. Her ideas were simple and powerful and with regards to Ms. Farnsworth, I will share her instructions on creating a respectful environment, with my additional comments.

RESPECT is treating people as equals. RESPECT is not the same as being nice in a passive-aggressive way, especially to avoid conflict. God says He loves all His children equally, who are we to judge, disdain or dismiss? (He does say He favors the righteous.) Wasn’t our country founded on the idea of universal equality? Isn’t this the foundation of the greatest country ever?

We must take OWNERSHIP for our opinions. Our experiences, beliefs and thoughts are our own and are unique; everyone comes from a different place, with different experiences and outlooks. Qualify a statement with “I believe…” or “I think…”, my favorite – “I could be wrong, but…”

SUPPORT statements with facts and information, cite outside sources and studies that back up assertions.

LISTEN RESPECTFULLY. No side conversations, rolling eyes or sighing. No rude comments, and especially no loaded passive-aggressive or dishonest questions that are in reality, trying to hurt others, “But don’t you think…”

Maintain CONFIDENTIALITY and be RESPONSIBLE for the information you know (or think you know). Too many lives and reputations are disrupted by lies, half-truths and innuendo.

If you feel OFFENDED or DISRESPECTED contact the person immediately (privately.) I need to do this better, it’s much more effective than a grudge.

REMEMBER the Golden Rule: Treat others as you wish to be treated. And the Platinum Rule: Treat others as they wish to be treated.

As I walked through the driving snow after class, I thought of Christ’s response to the woman who was taken in adultery (where was her partner?) He, who would ultimately pay the penalty for her act if she repented,  simply said “Go and sin no more.” No abuse, dismissive behavior, gossip or punishment. We have much less at stake, but our behavior does affect the emotional climate of our culture and the world.

It’s time for a climate change! Let’s do our best to bring warmth and kindness to a cold and weary world.

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Joy to the World

 
This is the story we read every year and never tire of hearing.
Every Christmas Eve we gather and read
Luke 2 from the New Testament in the Holy Bible
 
1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the  inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
 
I wish you a very merry Christmas and a year filled with rich blessings.

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Nutcrackers

 
The world lately seems to have gone nuts.
Well, not everyone, but nutty things are happening.
 
This is one of the good guys.

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Nutty Toffee – ohhh so good!

    

The delicious toffee is fairly simple to make – be sure to cook it when the weather is dry – too much moisture in the air will keep it from forming properly (and always use REAL butter.)

NUTTY TOFFEE

             Chop and toast in a 350°oven 5 – 7 minutes
1 C raw almonds

            Set aside.  Place in an 11 x 17″ jelly roll pan

3 C deluxe mixed nuts (no peanuts)

            Rub the inside of a large heavy pan with butter, then melt over low heat

1 1/2 C salted butter

            add

1 1/2 C sugar

3 TBSP water
           

Cook over low heat until sugar is dissolved; avoid getting sugar on the sides of the pan while cooking. Wipe sides down with a wet pastry brush if necessary. When sugar is dissolved, turn heat to medium high and continue cooking to 290° or hard crack stage. Remove from heat, add


1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

            Pour over mixed nuts in baking pan. Immediately spread with

12 oz. milk chocolate chips

            Place an inverted 11 x 17″ pan over the toffee mixture. Allow chocolate chips to melt for   
            about 5 minutes, then using a knife or spatula, spread the chocolate chips evenly over the
            surface of the toffee. Sprinkle with toasted chopped almonds. Place in the freezer for a few 
            minutes to quickly cool toffee. Break apart into chunks with a knife. Store in an airtight       
            container.

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My favorite 1960’s Carlsbad Christmases

Christmas is my favorite time of the year. I love the festive music, the beautiful decorations, the love in the air. It seems the world is decked out in my favorite colors of red and green. I love the scent of fresh-cut pine, the myriad of colored lights and familiar ornaments, the popcorn balls and toffee. I love the art of Christmas; Handel’s Messiah, The Nutcracker ballet, the loving painted renditions of the Nativity. Love; handcrafted, wrapped and delivered. It seems mankind’s greatest talents and best efforts are expended at the celebration of Christ’s birth. He was an artist and artisan, I’m sure he appreciates all heart-felt generosity.

I was born two days after Christmas. My little five foot tall mom delivered her first baby, all 8 lbs and 14 oz. of me. My poor mom almost bled to death, I still feel bad about that.  I was wrapped in a blue blanket because the hospital had run out of pink, bother. I don’t remember much, I heard a comedian say that he kept a journal from his birth. The first entry was; “still tired from the move.” But I’ve always loved sharing my birthday with Christmas. Except in seventh grade. My mom was single and there was never had enough money for extras. Two of my good friends had June birthdays – they received cool things for summer: radios, beach towels, new clothes – girl stuff. It occurred to me that my gift season was the middle of winter – no cool summer things for me.

Otherwise I LOVED Christmas. My Mom was an excellent cook and possessed the valuable skill of being able to create something wonderful out of not much. I loved her colorful M&M cookies, fudge and pecan sandies rolled in powdered sugar. Christmas music filled our house; the air was scented with bayberry candles. It seemed the whole world was filled with hidden surprises. I loved the joy and security of gathering with my favorite people and sitting as a family to share the story of Christ’s birth. My mom played carols on my sister’s toy organ, I displayed the nativity cut-outs I received in Primary at church and we sang. Our church put on a Christmas party every year. I think there was a dinner with lots of children running around while their parents visited. And Santa always came. I was nervous that I hadn’t been good enough, but he smiled and twinkled and I felt somehow reassured that my stocking would be filled and I would receive something special – he always came through.  He gave each child a small white paper bag; one year containing a popcorn ball, tangerine, a warbling bird whistle and a few little Christmas-shaped chewy candies. And a small candy cane. There was always a candy cane.

I loved the way the whole town seemed to light up to share the joy of the season. From the second-grade Christmas plays, I mean plays put on by the second grade; the colorful construction paper chains and Christmas trees, covered with stick-on stars, cotton balls and glitter to the class parties. We would drive around looking at the lights and Christmas displays in the neighborhood and downtown. Every year at the fire station,  the trucks were cleared out and Santa reigned from his sled in the midst of a winter wonderland. Sleepy the Travelodge bear was at the fire station. (A celebrity in the village – how did he get there?) We shopped downtown; picking up small gifts at the pharmacy and T.G. & Y. for teacher and my younger siblings. The only mall was a half hour away in San Diego, very distant and exotic.

I worked hard at discovering the location of hidden gifts; I have never really like surprises. I wanted what I wanted – no extra frills please. Regardless, there was always a pleasant surprise. I remember shopping with dad when I was very young to pick up surprises for my mom when they were still together. He was a good sport and bankrolled the operation. He built a swingset for us in the backyard and helped with the kitchen magic. When Dad was around Christmas was more enjoyable.

I learned that being with family was the greatest gift. The Chatty Cathys and talking Mr. Ed puppets, and doctor kits and other stars of my childhood Christmases have long been put to rest. Time spent with my parents and family is the most valuable gift. Christ’s gift of the promise of an eternal family is one of the kindest things he has done for me. No wonder the world still rejoices at the memory of His birth.
 
 
(This was probably at a Christmas bazaar at our church in Los Angeles
– it still makes me happy! Check out my cool plaid number.)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 
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The Spirit of Christmas

The Christmas Spirit is real and lives with joyous omnipotence during the holiday season. Music, beauty, sharing, love, creative giving from the heart – isn’t that what Christ was all about?
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Giving Thanks

GIVING THANKS

After months at sea in a small ship, a group of weary travelers, upon reaching the shores of North America, fell to their knees to give thanks. The Pilgrims at Cape Cod or Plymouth Rock in 1620?  No, Englishmen at the Berkeley Plantation, Virginia on December 4, 1619. Their orders included the giving of thanks upon arrival and on the anniversary every year from henceforth.

My ancestor, William Tracy, a governor of the Berkeley Colony, was so convinced of the potential of the early ventures into the colonies, that he invested heavily in them. Unfortunately, he died before he witnessed the amazing rise of “America.”  And though some of the celebrants of the first “Thanksgiving” in Virginia were killed in the Indian Massacre in 1622, the Pilgrims in Massachusetts carried on the tradition of giving thanks. Times were hard; so many pilgrims died that first winter that they buried the dead at night so the Native Americans wouldn’t know how few of them were left. Only 53 survived that first brutal year. The struggles of the Puritans, the conflicts with and help given by the Native Americans, and the culmination of efforts led to the brotherhood of that shared feast in the autumn of 1621.

Many historians agree that the first American Thanksgiving was inspired by ancient Israel’s Feast of the Tabernacles, the celebration and gratitude for the harvest. Gratitude is a divine principle and is defined as: A feeling of thankful appreciation for favors or benefits received; warm appreciative response to kindness.

The power of gratitude can be life-changing. Studies on the health benefits of gratitude have shown an increase in energy in participants, improved sleep and other positive outcomes according to Robert Emmons of the University of California Davis, Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami and Alexander Wood of the University of Manchester.

Hospitality binds individuals, families and communities in cheering and loving ways. Each of us has the potential to increase the positive energy in our community, world and the universe. As you gather your loved ones and give thanks for the good things in your lives, here are a few ideas to enhance your celebrations.
Blessings Centerpiece

Place branches with autumn leaves in mercury jars or vases surrounded by votive candles, acorn and pumpkins. Have guests write on paper tags things they are thankful for; tie onto branches. Or write on collected leaves with a thin permanent marker and scatter on the table.

Autumn Quilt

Cut 56 thirteen inch squares of autumn-color fabrics and sew together in eight rows of seven for a generous queen-size quilt. Add a thin batting, muslin for the backing, and add a simple border. Collect several varieties of leaves; trace on brown paper to make templates; lay the leaves on the quilt and outline in chalk. Stitch with embroidery floss in a contrasting color using a simple running stitch. Quilt around each block. This quilt can be used for a tablecloth or displayed from September through November.

A Coordinated Kitchen

As you plan your holiday menu, make a list of the foods and serving dishes. Plan your cooking and baking days and which foods may be made ahead and frozen or chilled.

Family Bingo

Create a family bingo game with copies of photos of family members. This is a good way for the children to learn about their ancestors. You may use vintage scrapbook paper and cardstock. This game uses candy corn for markers. Have the family pitch in by bringing plenty of small gifts and toys for prizes.

Gingerbread Houses

Make or buy gingerbread houses and assemble a few days before Thanksgiving. Have at least one per family to take home. After the dishes are done, let the decorating begin! Be sure to have lots of frosting and candy (buy on sale after Halloween) to decorate with.

Thanksgiving on Wednesday

Although President Abraham Lincoln officially made Thanksgiving Day the fourth Thursday in November, personal schedules might suggest celebrating on a different day. Having Thanksgiving dinner the evening before gives you the day to take children to the mountains, beach  or local historic sites the next day. Yummy leftovers make a great picnic.
   
Thanksgiving on the Beach
One year my clever mother and her friends packed up the feast, kids and grandparents and treated us to an authentic out-of-doors Thanksgiving on the beach at La Jolla in southern California. Yes it was cold and gray; but not as cold as the pilgrims experienced. It was an unforgettable holiday. With a little research you can find recipes and methods for a moveable feast.
     
Service Opportunities
One way to show gratitude is to share. During this time of year opportunities abound for helping the less fortunate. From serving dinner at homeless shelters, hospitals or retirement centers to gathering food for food banks and community kitchens; taking a pie to the fire department or police station or sending a treat box to military personnel and missionaries and other overseas volunteers. Look around your neighborhood to find people who would enjoy sharing a dinner with your family.

May you and your loved ones rejoice in the wondrous gifts you enjoy and thank the One who so generously bestows the blessings. Happy Thanksgiving!