Recipe of the Month

Artichoke Spinach Casserole 

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1/6 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk
• 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) Hunt’s® Original Diced Tomatoes, drained
• 1 cans (14 ounces each) water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• Paprika, optional

Directions

• In a large skillet, cook mushrooms and broth over medium heat until tender, about 3 minutes. Remove mushrooms with a slotted spoon and set aside.
• Whisk flour and milk until smooth; add to skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms.
• Place half of the artichoke in an ungreased 8-in. x 8-in. baking dish. Top with half of the spinach mixture. Repeat layers. Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt and pepper; dollop over casserole. Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
• Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly. Yield: 6 - 7 servings.

I made this recipe for a dinner party and I would definitely make it again!

Both the recipe and photo are  from the Taste of Home cookbook.  

For the Love of Airports

I like love airports!

I rarely travel by plane, but when I do, my favorite part is the airport.  I don't think that it is one specific thing that makes me love them the way I do, but a combination of small things.  By nature, I am a people watcher, and there are so many people to watch at the airport.  Part of what I enjoy is trying to figure out where people are going and why they are traveling.  I also love that you can find just about anything you need in an airport.  The variety of stores are either miniature versions of themselves or a souvenir shops filled with t-shirts, mugs, bags, and trinkets that no one really needs.  I love the orderliness of the whole process.  The rules that need to be followed and the procedures that are constant and predictable.  Even the waiting doesn't bother me.  I like having to read, or look around, or finish a crossword puzzle.  It is relaxing and free of guilt because I am not just sitting around, but waiting for my flight.  And then there is the anticipation of my bag coming around on the baggage carousel.  Nothing beats the relief of seeing that your luggage has also arrived safely and that you will not be left wearing the same clothes for a week.

So though I do not always enjoy my flight, I always enjoy the airport!

Big 10 of 2010

1. The  very successful surprise party I threw for A's 30th Birthday.
2. California!!
3. Opening Day for the Brewer's. 
4. A's mom was diagnosed with lung cancer and she underwent chemo and radiation. (A's mom received a clean bill of health in January!)
5. World's Largest Brat Fest in Madison! (I love food!) 
6. Was promoted and now oversee Day Camp in addition to what I already do. 
7. WE GOT MARRIED!!
8. We moved in to our new apartment. 
9. Our honeymoon in Georgia!
10. Our first "Married" holidays together.

A Week Apart

This week I am away from A for a whole week while I attend a leadership course and camping conference.  It is one of those times where I have mixed emotions. 

On one hand, I am super excited to be here.  It allows me to connect with others in my position and find the support and advice that A cannot give me due to the uniqueness of my job.  What I do, the stress I feel, and problems I face at work are something that only another person in my position can truly relate too.  I am remembering that I am not the only person who struggles with the challenges ahead and that gives me a very comforting feeling.  There is something about knowing you have a support group that can make the weight lift.

On the other hand, I hate being away from A.  I miss talking about our day and climbing into bed with him.  He provides security and comfort for me.  When we are apart, something is missing. 

I don't regret my decision to come and know that the week will fly by, but I will be so glad to return home at the end of the week to the comfort of home and the comfort of A.