Tall Tales from Kansas

something your Aunt might make for you if she were visiting and you mentioned you had a bad day at school

I do not know why I have been compulsed to finally try out some of these recipes I have had for years and never bothered to try.  But there it is.  It might have something to do with the cold.  Maybe my need for some deep comfort even if it is in the form of food.  Someone sent me some dates last week.  You can only add dates to so many things.  You KNOW not a single date will pass through the lips of Chris.  If you find yourself with some extra dates hanging around, I suggest this.

Which will turn into this

And finally this

Which really needs no description but allow me to say it is moist and sticky and not too sweet and it's something your Aunt might make for you if she were visiting and you mentioned you had a bad day at school. 

Just in case you decide to give it a whirl.  

resistance was futile

Here is what followed me home from the knitting retreat . 

The orange bag starting singing it's siren song the minute my eyes flitted across it on Friday night.   I made feeble attempts to talk myself out of it in order to appear like I was considering not getting it.     It had me in it's spell though.  Resistance was futile. 

The Black Water Abbey Yarn I did wait until Saturday to purchase.  This was a trunk show of sample garmets, patterns, an ample quantity of yarn, and plenty of free consultants with all kinds of advise on which styles and colors were the most flattering.   I bought 3 patterns but that particular yarn (wood violet and bracken) is going to turn into an Aran Wrap sometime before next January. 

I got that yellow alpaca silk at last years retreat.   But it looked nice with the bag and is included in the photo so I won't forget about it.   Like I could.  It's as soft as buttah. 

after you just told the person you came with that you absolutely do not need another knitting bag

Just in case you have never been to a knitting retreat and you are curious about what goes on at one, here are a few highlights.  You will meet nice people and get to see what they have been working on.   It is an opportunity to be re-energized by the amazing things that people are making.   There might be sample garmets to try on so you can see how a pattern will look on you. 

You will look at, touch, and buy yarn.  Or perhaps bags for your yarn.  Or possibly needles for your yarn.  You may need all three.   This after you have just told the person you came with that you absolutely do not need another knitting bag or one more project out there waiting to be started. 


You can find a spot by the fire and put your feet up and work on your sweater.  You also could take a class and learn a new skill.  If you get stuck, there is always someone to help you figure out what to do next.  


You can make plans to come back next year ... you might even have committed to completing a project with your new friends so you can all be in the "strut your stuff" fashion show next year.   I mean I wouldn't do that, but some people might.  Especially if they had consumed a bottle of Bailey's in their coffee while talking trash late on Saturday night. 

an equal opportunity drinker

I like the ritual of tea.  I like it at home where I can boil the water in a kettle and pour it into a cup my sister gave me many moons ago and dip in one of those lovely Haney & Son's sachets.

And I love it at my desk at work where I have to microwave the water and pour it into a cup my friend Hilda gave me in 1993 when we worked together and shared an office. 

There is something soothing about the dipping, followed by inhaling that mildly fragranced steam, and wrapping your hands around the mug while you hunch your shoulders up and go "ahhh".    

I don't think I will ever give up coffee.  Coffee with breakfast is a must.  Espresso after a meal in Italy is a requirement.  Cappuccino at the locally owned coffee shops while on vacation is a preoccupation.  I am an equal opportunity drinker though which means tea in the afternoon at work and in the evening at home is not only allowed, it is encouraged. 

talented people quietly displaying their masterpieces

Every year on the last weekend in January I go on retreat. It's a serious retreat. Time for meditation.  Reflection.  Solitude.  Oh... and did I mention knitting? 

This is a compilation of photos from the last several years.  Exceptionally talented people quietly displaying their masterpieces.  It is sponsored by The Studio, a great little knitting shop by the plaza in Kansas City.   This is a weekend of pure relaxation and fun.  Sitting around with a bunch of other yarn/knitting addicts and getting ideas about something you might want to try next.  Oh and did I mention good food, door prizes, fireplaces to sit by, and the opportunity to see and perhaps purchase new and unique yarns?    

Yep.  That's my idea of a serious retreat. 

under-appreciated foods

The beet falls into that category of under-appreciated foods.  Often thought of as something that is only eaten pickled, out of a jar, by old ladies. 

While I do happen to like them pickled and out of a jar I like them even better when they are wrapped in foil, baked for one hour in a 350 degree oven, allowed to cool, peeled, drizzled with olive oil and salt & pepper, maybe just a few drops of balsamic vinegar and topped with some goat or feta cheese. 

30 years and 30 tons of laundry

In 1982 Chris and I got our first washer and dryer after he hit the big time working on "The Day After",  a made-for-TV-movie which paid union wages.  That washer and dryer were a thing of beauty.  Oh the sheer joy of walking down the stairs to the basement to do laundry instead of driving to the laundromat.

These days the only beauty I see in laundry is when it's folded and done.    Oh what a difference 30 years and 30 tons of laundry makes. 

I wouldn't lead you astray

If you like bread pudding and you like bananas foster and you like cornbread,  you will surely want to dive head first into this. 

I cut this out a while back and since I had some cornbread and bananas just laying around I decided this past weekend it was high time to try it out. 

There was one IMPORTANT change I made to this recipe.  I added rum.  Bananas foster calls for rum.   I really like rum.  Therefore I substituted about 1/3 cup rum for some of the milk.  I also had to end up cooking it for about 20 minutes longer than called for. 

The recipe suggests serving with vanilla ice cream and drizzling with caramel sauce.  I really LOVE both of them but this is so good as is, I left them off.   

I wouldn't lead you astray.   Not on something as important as this. 

I admire people who don't let yarn get the better of them

On a gray day, I sat on a couch next to a gray cat, and knitted my gray sweater.  I have been knitting this sweater slowly but began to pick up steam in the last 2 weeks. 

Just as I began to get excited about doing the decreases for the underarm I realized I had not cast on an additional 24 stitches in order to make the left front flap.  As usual I began to flounder around thinking about how I could make this work.  Then I thought about Mary, our knitting instructor, who would just look at me patiently at our next class and let me come to the proper conclusion that the only thing to do is rip back to the problem area and start that part again.  I also remembered my knitting classmate Dianne who has a jacket she has ripped out twice and is still working to make right.   Then I started unravelling and rewinding the yarn and started over.  I admire people who don't let yarn get the better of them.   I want to be like them. 

I made enough for Chris but he decided to go with the cheerios

It's a breakfast throwdown.  Before you automatically vote for the chef of the house (who, given his superior cooking abililities, I would normally vote for as well) let me show you the end products.  Then I leave it to you to decide.

The breakfast prepared by Chris.

Please note the absence of bananas and the fact that he puts his sugar on after the milk.  It just sits there and does not drift down with the milk and evenly distribute it's sweetness among those little nuggets of oaty goodness. 

The breakfast prepared by Carol.

Irish oatmeal over chopped dates, pears, and bananas.  Topped with greek yogurt, brown sugar, and walnuts.  I made enough for Chris but he chose to go with the cheerios.  Thus the throwdown.

nestling amongst the red twig dogwoods

The landscape of Kansas in the winter can be varying shades of gray.

When it's cold and dreary like this, there really is  no reason to venture out.

Unless of course you just want to document the state of the garden on January 21st 2012 for posterity.

Sometimes when you do this you might just spot a nice birdy, with a big down coat on, nestling amongst the red twig dogwoods.   Which in turn will get you out tomorrow to see if he invites any of his friends over to feast at the newly filled feeder. 

Lewis and I have our favorite chair ready

In preparation for the beginning of a cold weekend Lewis and I have our favorite chair ready to snuggle up in and get started on this new book. 

We might have to get started tonight.  In fact,  let me just head down to the kitchen and get that tea pot turned on.  Now where did I put those lemon iced shortbread cookies I was saving for just this occasion?

someone who likes to make home-made asian cuisine

For many people the pleasure of "chinese food" is that you get it to go, take it home, and give the chef of the house the night off.  If you are truly blessed you live with someone who likes to make home-made asian cuisine. 

You can't beat the taste of the freshly chopped vegetables.  Thanks Chris, you can take off tomorrow night. 

one half of the renowned Lewis and Clark duo

I am sipping on some medicinal wine as I think of how to tell you that the flags here at Tall Tales headquarters are flying at half staff this week. One half of the renowned Lewis and Clark duo is no longer with us. Not with us in his furry feline form that is. He will always hold a space in our hearts from which he can never be displaced. Did I say it was a big, giant, gaping hole of a space right now? I meant to.

We found out about 8 weeks ago that Clark likely had pancreatic cancer. He wasn't eating or drinking much. Not one to put a cat through a lot of tests I myself would not want to go through we did an ultrasound and stopped at that. We gave him ample doses of love in the form of quiet nap times on our laps, lots of tummy rubbing, and enough sweet talk to last a life time. We are big on sweet talk around here.

We expect some heartfelt grieving to be ongoing for awhile.  We've been through this before, but each time, with each pet is uniquely painful.  I mean who is going to help me match my yarn colors, or do Angie's taxes, or carry on long discussions with Chris late into the night after Lewis and I have gone to bed?  

I've informed Lewis Mulvenon that he will have to absorb twice as much love as he is used to. He indicated to me that he was up for it.   He also said not to expect him to be as good a listener as Clark was. Lewis is more of a talker. He has lots to say about a lot of things. And right now that is exactly what we need.

itch free, warm, and 100% functional

I have made a variety of mittens since I began knitting.  In the last year though I have figured out that what I really like to wear are fingerless mitts.  Even when it's really cold out I like a good pair of mitts that leave the tips of my fingers exposed so I can locate things in my purse, drive and still adjust the radio, get my keys, etc. 

These poor things have had it.  I wear them everyday when it starts to get the least bit chilly out.  As it gets colder, I roll down the folded up part to cover my fingers when I am outside.   This pattern is available free right here from the yarn manufacturer.  Only takes 1 skein for a pair.  I love this yarn because it is completely "itch free" and warm. 

I might have plans to make a few more pair this winter. 

Book Report by Carol

 I finished listening to A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan.   It's a story told in an unusual format.  Each chapter is from a different period of time in the lives of the 2 main characters.  The order of events is not sequential.  I wasn't sure how I would like that, but it's intriguing to know how some aspect of the characters' life is going to turn out before they do.  There were a couple of small parts that dragged and if I had been reading instead of listening I would have skimmed them.   The book also takes on this odd futuristic vibe near the end that seems out of synch with the rest of the story.  BUT I found it an enjoyable read and would try something else by this author. 

The End

my emergency back-up memory generator

Today I went to the bank to conduct some business.   At our bank your must use a card and a code in order to complete a transaction.  I went to the auto-teller for Angie's part of the business because neither she nor I remember her secret code.   I usually just put in some numbers and  after 3-4 unsuccessful tries the deposit is accepted.   I don't want to have to explain to a teller the story of how we don't remember the number.  Why do you need a number to make a deposit anyway?????

After Angie's business  was concluded I went to the window with the "live" teller because I just wanted to cash some checks.  Not deposit the checks and then make a withdrawal.  Just cash the checks.   The teller prompted me to put in my code and suddenly my mind goes blank.  I mumble something like  "well I'd sure like to if only I could remember it".   I tried a couple of sequences.   The young teller began to look annoyed.   Unlike the automatic teller,  he did not seen inclined to give in.   As he rolled his eyes, I quickly phoned my emergency back up memory generator and got the code.   Business concluded the teller told me to have a nice afternoon.   I give him my very best "one flew over the cuckoo's nest" look, threw my head back,  laughed like a hyena and said "you have a nice 4th of July too".

I see no reason to lose your sense of humor even if you temporarily lose your memory.

if you guessed that... you would be exactly right

Guess what I'm having for breakfast in the morning?

Actually it's less about what I am having, and more about the fact that it marks the beginning of a 3 day weekend, that has me positively giddy.  

BUT if you guessed I was going to have cream of wheat made with milk,  spooned over a bowl of sliced strawberries and bananas,  topped with a dollop of greek yogurt, then sprinkled with chopped walnuts and a dusting of brown sugar...  well if you guessed that...  you would be exactly right.

all that color spilling over on your lap

The good thing about cold, bone-chilling, face-freezing, weather is that you get the chance to wear knitted items.   One of my favorite things to make is a vest.  You can wear it inside at work and not get too hot.  Plus you don't have to make sleeves, so it works up faster than a sweater.   This is my favorite vest from last winter. 

It's from a Rowan booklet - The Colourscape Chunky Collection.  This is a Kaffe Fassett yarn.  A total joy to work with.  All that color spilling over on your lap while you knit.  I am fascinated by the progression of the striping pattern.   

Here's the picture from the book if you want to see how it looks on a body.  By the time I got the idea to do this post I already had my pajamas on and I couldn't talk Chris into putting it on and posing for me.   He can only be pushed so far. 

it's her job... she takes it very, very, seriously

Tall Tales headquarters.  Wednesday night, January 11, 2012.  8:38 pm.  Windy.  Cold. 

Ring Ring Ring (sound of phone)

Carol?  (yes mom)

Are you driving the truck to work tomorrow?  (I'm not sure mom)

Well you know we're supposed to get a LOT of snow.  (Yes mom, I heard)

Be extra careful.  (Yes, mom.  I've been driving to work in the snow for 27 years)

OK, I love you.  (I love you too)

Does your mom still call to impart motherly advice on a regular basis?  Angie does.  It's her job.  She takes it very, very, seriously.  

I high-fived myself

If you have to go to just one more Holiday Extravaganza and you need to bring something - I suggest this.

If you walk in the door with this people will think you are a culinary wizard AND that you are a cheerful holiday party goer.  How could a curmudgeon bring something that looks this festive?  It worked like a charm for me this past weekend.  It's called the Kahlua Brownie Trifle.  You just layer some brownie chunks that have been brushed with Kahlua while warm, with some chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and toffee bits.  Let it sit for about 8 hours before serving. 

As you recall from yesterday's post I am currently locking horns with the spare tire that is around my mid section.   I stood far away from this all night and snuck out without taking the leftovers.   I high-fived myself as I walked out the door.  Hopefully nobody saw. 

feeling a bit on the pudgy wudgy side

In the event that you are craving something sweet, and will simply die this instant if you don't have it, I have a treat for you.  This is also something for all of you good people who are working out and eating right because it's January.  I don't know about you guys but I will admit to feeling a bit on the pudgy wudgy  side these days.  I hate it when I feel pudgy wudgy or roly poly. 

My niece (mother of the twins) made this when she was here at Christmas.  It was a hit.  It's called Pears with Almond Cream and it's a snap to make.  Especially if your neice is at your house and makes it.

Take some nice ripe pears and core them and cut them in half.
Toast some sliced almonds in a skillet.
Beat 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream until thick, add 2 Tablespoons confectionars sugar and beat until soft peaks form, fold in 1/2 cup Greek yogurt and 3/4 teaspoon almond extract. 
Put some of this on top of your pear.  Spinkle with cinnammon.  Top with toasted almonds.  Serve.  

 This makes enough topping for 8 pear halves.  It also keeps in the refrigerator for a few days.  Only 140 calories.  Revel in your feeling of healthy goodness as you eat it. 

Yo sister!

Yo Sister!  Happy Birthday.   I'll meet you at our favorite restaurant at 10:00 pm - sorry for the late reservation but my flight does't get in until 9.  I am taking a cab from the airport.  If I get there first I will order you the same drink you had last time, if you get there first I'll have a bottle of something red.   I asked for the corner table with the spectacular view of the twinkling lights of the city.    They remembered us from last year and were happy to hear we are coming back.  They wanted to know if we were going to get up and sing again this year.   Did we do that last year?

since the last meeting of the literary guild

Went to the library today.  Have I mentioned before how much I LOVE the library?  I think I have but it bears repeating.  Going to the library makes me happy. 

You get your books for free and I really like picking up a copy of BookPage to find other books I might want to request.   I have heard from many people that Unbroken is a winner.  CD #1 is loaded for listening on the am commute tomorrow. 

Here is what I have been up to since the last meeting of the literary guild: 

State of Wonder:  Good read.  Unexpected.  Engrossing.  Recommend.
Visit from the Goon Squad:  Haven't started.  Got from library on CD.  (Dana I will return your book at long last!)
The Pain Chronicles:  I should finish. I think I will learn something from it.  Struggling.  Too much like required reading maybe?  Verdict still out. 
Cutting for Stone and Sara's Key:  Still on nightstand. 

Discuss amongst yourselves.  Report in with feedback. 

party for one

We received a jar of balsamic onion marmalade for Christmas.  Yes, you heard me.  Balsamic onion marmalade.  Have you ever, in your life, heard of something so delicious?   If you are like me, and you don't have a party planned in the near future, you do not let that stop you from opening the jar and trying it out.

If you haven't heard, party for one is totally in.   I try to have one every weekend.  It is helping me come out of my shell.  My small talk skills are improving by leaps and bounds.  

newsflash: rocket extract secret to great looking hair

Does it make sense to you that if you like rocket on your pizza on the Amalfi coast that you should buy shampoo with rocket extract in it because it might make your hair look the best it has ever looked in your entire life? 

It did to me.  I mean who has heard of shampoo with rocket in it?  I think it is a very well kept secret.  I'll let you know how it works out.   As I walked out of the shop where I bought this I could not help but think that Angie would have asked at the counter if they could please fill the bottle up all the way.  I mean for a grand total of $21.37 you would think the bottle would be full. 

It must be part of the whole "less is more" thing.   I of course kept my lips zipped as I left the premises. 

someone is waving a snickerdoodle under your nose

If you haven't scheduled your post-holiday debriefing session yet don't worry.  There is plenty of time.  I had one today.   It goes like this.  Meet friend for coffee.  Swap holiday stories.  Talk about what a mess your house is.   Console each other.  

If you live in the Kansas City area I am going to suggest you try the Black Dog Coffee House on 87th street in Lenexa as your therapy location.    You can't go wrong with the Christmas Cookie latte.

This is NOT one of those sickeningly sweet drinks.  It's more like someone is waving a snickerdoodle under your nose each time you bring the cup up to take a sip.  It melts away any residual holiday regrets and absolves you of the need to make resolutions.   My session today was so therapeutic I went ahead and set up another one for later in the week.   

in full recovery mode

I can't bring myself to clean these yet.

I miss the little hands that made them.

Meanwhile, these 2 are keeping it on the down-low.   Still in full recovery mode.    They have never before, in their 13 year old lives, seen anything like twin almost 2 year olds. 

the subtle essense of blackberry and smoked figs

It's a wine tasting.  Right in our own home.  

You get to taste 6 and pick your favorites. 

Swirl, sniff, sip,  enjoy.  

It's fun to pretend you know what you are doing. 

"I say Chris did you catch the subtle essence of blackberry and smoked figs with that last bottle?"  

it's not superstition, it's tradition

No fireworks or dropping crystal balls needed around here.  All we need is a party hat and a menu that includes some black-eyed peas. 

If you have any southern blood in you at all, you know you've got to have black eyed peas to ring in the new year.  That is not superstition.  It's tradition.  Black-eyed peas = good luck and prosperity.  You can throw a smoked ham hock in your beans if you are so inclined but it's not necessary.   Happy New Year to you with best wishes for 2012!