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Merrysunshine777

Diving off the Cliff

I have had many moments in my life where I found myself in my overactive imagination standing on a cliff. The size of the cliff depended on how big the possible leap was going to be. I do know that life will kick me in the backside of that cliff. I have found myself grasping at nothing but air and wondering where the screaming was coming from.

Yummy Texas Chili

This is one of my favorite recipes of all time. Chili always makes me think of two things; chili cheese dogs or chili cheese tater tots during the summer. In the winter with two feet of snow on the ground, spaghetti red is one of my favorites. For me, chili is so universal.

Why does Kindness = Weakness?

Because I am choosing the light, I am choosing to serve. We all understand the familiar acts of kindness. Some examples are letting someone in front of you in the checkout line or giving up your seat for someone who needs it more. I find the reactions to my unfamiliar random acts of kindness very entertaining.

De-Cluttering your home

Have you ever heard of spring cleaning? Well, you see, I do spring, summer, fall, and winter cleaning. I live in a small two-bedroom apartment. Things tend to pile up quickly. There is only so much room, and furniture like couches, bed frames, kitchen tables can take up a lot of space. So looking for more ways to organize and arrange my belongings is a constant cycle. De-cluttering is a part of that cycle. I guess I would be considered a minimalist based on functionality with probably a little OCD.

Oven-Roasted Potatoes

Oven-roasted potatoes are so easy and versatile. I love making these. I can switch up the seasonings to match whatever I am making for dinner. Also, with oven-roasted potatoes, you can cook them with other dishes in the oven. I am known to cook my chicken and potatoes at the same time. Well, almost at the same time. The chicken, of course, has a longer cooking time, so you can put the potatoes in when your chicken is close to being done.

Forgive yourself before others

To forgive: a verb to stop feeling angry or resentful toward (someone) for an offense, flaw, or mistake. The problem with my original interpretation of that definition was that I assumed that I only needed to forgive others. You know what happens when you assume. The lesson I learned was that to grant another forgiveness: I had to forgive myself.

My Inspired Spaghetti Sauce

The origins of the recipe are a mix of French, Italian and Asian. When I was growing up, Julia Child was the original television chef. Although she taught French cooking, she inspired many of us to experiment with other types of food. At the time, the ingredients used in her cooking were not readily available to most people. This sent me down the road to Italy. *Trivia fact: Some believe that pasta, including spaghetti, originally came from Asia.

How to Clean a Stove

I am a home cook, and my stove is a fundamental and sizable piece of equipment. I treat my stove with all the love and care it deserves. Yes, LOVE. Daily, it provides me with good food and warmth. I have been using my stove for years now, and it still looks new. Take good care of your equipment, and it will last for many years of extraordinary service

Checking in with Myself

I awaken before dawn most mornings. It is now my favorite time of the day. When I was younger, the only time I saw a sunrise was on my way home from work that night. This changed dramatically when my youngest was born. She taught me that to keep my sanity, I need to make time daily to check myself. This is checking my mental, emotional, and physical state.

Bacon Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts are one of my favorite vegetables. This is one of our favorite side dishes. People often say eww Brussel sprouts, but I feel if they are made right. They are packed with so much goodness. These little babies have many health benefits. They contain a variety of nutrients, antioxidants, and are a good source of fiber. It is also quick and easy to make.