Camping...

we had the beginning tent campers...

the occasional trailer campers...

and the long term campers...

Trends for 2010...

I found this list and more on Carol's Culinary Cues... check it out for more 2010 trends (all for the better I think).

McCormick (the spice company) Top 20 Flavor Pairings for 2010

[1] Roasted Ginger and Rhubarb: Exciting layers of spicy and sour, with warming notes and a powerful tang

[2] Thai Basil and Watermelon: A colorful study in contrasts offers a sweet, refreshing balance

[3] Caraway and Bitter Greens: An unmistakable spice tames the bitter bite of bold greens

[4] Bay Leaves and Preserved Lemon: Slowly coaxed flavor worth the wait, an aromatic mix of bitter, salty-tart and bright

[5] Almond and Ale: The bittersweet character of both ingredients makes a congenial, cozy and hearty match

[6] Turmeric and Vine-Ripened Tomatoes: Earthy and naturally sweet, this colorful, healthful blend is always in season

[7] Pumpkin Pie Spice and Coconut Milk: This lush, warm pairing reconnects with its tropical roots

[8] Roasted Cumin and Chickpeas: This globetrotting Mediterranean duet delivers warm, earthy flavor harmonies

[9] Creole Mustard and Shellfish: A vibrant pair that brings Gulf Coast gusto to any part of the country

[10] Chives and Fish Sauce: Savory fusion of French and Asian cuisines

McCormick also offers these insights on general food trends:

[1] In is the New Out – Big flavors and new definitions of “dinner party” bring the best of restaurant meals home

[2] Always In Season – Preserving the peak of ripeness for year-round enjoyment, fresh at the ready

[3] Meatless on the Menu – Mixing up the center of the plate

[4] Ethnic Sizzle – Tastes of the global grill, appearing in a backyard near you

[5] New Comfort Cuisine – A renewed appreciation for the integrity of ingredients and cooking techniques

[6] here the Cocktail Meets the Kitchen – Shaken or stirred, tasteful inspiration takes on new forms

BOB's RED MILL...

Bob's Red Mill is giving away a copy of the Gluten-Free Recipes Book.
Check it out on their website.

I love their whole 10 grain mix cooked with a little oatmeal added in hot milk. Delicious! My cholesterol went from 220 to 155 this year! I think it was from the whole grain each morning, along with hot green tea. YUM YUM

1/4 cup 10 grain
1/4 cup oatmeal
2 cups milk - heated
2 packs Splenda
heat the milk stir in the grains/oats and splenda let sit 10-15 minutes. Makes 2 servings

Mental muscle...

These websites off free puzzles, brainteasers, and other exercises to strengthen your brain.

AARP: here,

Brainwaves: here and here,

Sharpbrains: here and here.

check them out.

SPRING...

With a little motivation...

some help from the dogs and good old fashioned sweat...

we almost have a backyard corner again.

Get freebies online...

this month in the ALL YOU magazine they have several sight you can go to to get all sort of things for free. check it out. there are also some free website which I have posted before but are worth repeating.

They also have a list of websites (some which I have posted before) that are worth checking out.

REMINDER: Always be careful, no matter the source, of giving out you personnel information.

It's official...

we have been counted...

what a difference...

a day makes...

beutiful evening...