There’s so much sickness going on right now.  I have been doing more substitute teaching recently because of it.  I feel sorry for our daughter, Christi, and her husband and two babies.  They’ve all been sick with everything from pink eye (Baby C), throwing up, ear infection, to just not feeling well because of a bad cold and/or fever.  They need to take an Outer Banks vacation to get away from all the sick germs that are at work, preschool, and everywhere!

I have been trying hard since the holidays to eat healthy and not have all the goodies that surrounded us during Christmas and New Year’s. However, I do allow myself treats and small servings of dessert from time to time. I don’t know what the best weight loss pills are since I just try to eat sensibly and healthy.  If you have a healthy recipe that you would like to share, email me.  (Go to “About” at the top of the home page to find my email address.)

Those of you who’ve had babies, do you notice how hard getting rid of belly fat can be? Some people don’t have that problem, but I think they’re in the minority.  I just resigned myself to the fact that I would always have some, and it’s a reminder of our two precious children.  As far as trying to slim down some, I try to go for longer walks more often and eat healthy.

(Ft. Worth, Texas)

I saw this recipe on the back of a Kroger’s package of pecans.  It sounds appropriate for all the snow we’ve had the past couple of days!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 package (10 ounces) marshmallows
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup (1/2 pint) whipping cream, whipped
• 1/2 cup pecan pieces
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine marshmallows and milk and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until marshmallows are melted.  Cool.  Fold in remaining ingredients.  Pour into a greased 8-inch pan.  Chill until firm.

Cut into squares and top with fresh berries or peaches (or canned peaches).  Keep leftovers in the fridge.

Somehow I got a week behind, so this is actually this week’s FFoF:

Val says, “Hi all!

One question again this week.

What are four spices you must have in the house?”

Besides the basic ones, salt and pepper, I always have these on hand:

• Bay leave
• Cinnamon
• Rosemary
• Thyme

And Parsley and Cilantro.

From Val:  “Hi all!  One question again this week.

What are your four favorite soups?”

1. Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup

(I can tell by reading the recipe that this will definitely be a favorite – I plan to make it soon)

2. Turkey & Vegetable Soup
3. Olive Garden’s Minestrone Soup
4. Three Bean or Four Bean or Five Bean Soup (do you get the idea that I like bean soup?)