Boston's Heroes

 

source, Boston Globe

When something evil happens, the only way to make sense of it all is to look for the acts of kindness that arise from the chaos. First, I was struck by the sight of the police, firemen and even ordinary citizens running towards the explosion immediately after the blast. They desperately tried to remove the fences and barricades to get to the wounded. Of course, there was no guarantee that there would not be another explosion, but these brave people went into the area anyway. It restores your faith in humanity.

Also, there were reports of acts of kindness by the citizens of Boston towards the runners who had their race cut short by the explosion and were tired, cold and in shock. It was reported that people were taking the runners into their homes, giving them a hot drink and a phone to use to try and connect with their loved ones. No thought was given that these were strangers - just that they needed a helping hand.

America's citizens and first responders are strong and brave - we saw the best of that on display in the city of Boston.

 

#prayforboston

 

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Sunday Favorites

 

Yesterday was a really nice day - a Sunday that started off with coffee and my favorite french toast and ended with a family birthday party. I picked up this new oversized coffee mug when I was out running errands on Saturday and enjoyed filling it to the brim and sitting with a good book as I started my day, calm and relaxing. Sometimes it is the little things, like a new coffee mug that can start your day with a smile.

Later in the afternoon my family got together at my sister's house for our post Christmas/spring birthday celebration. We had a nice lunch together and it was good to catch up with all my nieces and nephews. I put together these gifts for my sister and sister in law. Very often, I don't use gift bags, but include some fun items in a basket and tie it with a pretty grosgrain ribbon. This time I found a black iron napkin holder and filled it with a candle, pretty napkins and some flower seeds. Putting together pretty gifts, for people I love, makes me happy.

My sister usually asks me to bring a salad to these kind of family parties and this time I brought my favorite, simple, but delicious Caesar Salad. This recipe is easy, but you will get compliments galore. Here is my quick method for putting this salad together.

 

Simple Caesar Salad for a Crowd

Place two bags of romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.

Slice two bunches of green onions and scatter over lettuce.

Sprinkle one cup shredded parmesan cheese over lettuce and green onion mixture. Toss well.

Add approximately 1/2 bottle good quality caesar dressing a little at a time. Toss well, as you add dressing.

Sprinkle a little more shredded parmesan on the top of salad and serve.

This salad is also really good with the addition of grilled chicken breast.

 

The Masters was very exciting and I loved that there was another first time winner and how he respectfully acknowledged Greg Norman. The rain at the tournament was a little disappointing - I look forward to seeing the course with the pretty sunshine and flowers. Happy Monday!

 

{Linking with these friends}

Gooseberry Patch

Savvy Southern Style

Rattlebridge Farm

Back For Seconds

Mom's Test Kitchen

Semi Homemade Mom

Barns and Noodles

Mockingbird Hill Cottage, Favorite Things

 

 

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Just A Little Sugar

 

When you are diabetic, finding ways to limit sugar in your diet is a way of life. That is why I take every chance I can to cook and bake with healthier ingredients, so I don't have to feel deprived. I also believe in portion control - I only have one cookie and incorporate it into my carb count for that meal or snack. Actually, this philosophy is not just for a diabetic - everyone can benefit from less sugar in their food choices. And, being aware of the sugar ( carb) content by reading labels and nutrition information on recipes.

I baked these Oatmeal Raisin cookies with the Splenda brown sugar blend, as well as a Stevia and white sugar blend. Both have the regular, sugar texture I look for in a sugar substitute and I can't tell the difference in the taste of the cookies. If you are looking to limit your sugar intake, they are great alternatives. Any favorite cookie recipe can be made with these substitutions.

Other good substitute sweeteners to use when baking are agave nectar, honey or maple syrup.

Really, there are so many great alternative sweeteners; you can still have that cake or cookie, but not the guilt!

Have a great weekend - we will be in the midst of rain, thunderstorms and even some predicted snow. A good excuse to stay warm and dry inside and watch the Masters golf tournament from the sunny south :-)

 

Linking with Kelly's Korner, Show Us Your Life

 

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