Monday Musings

  Blizzards  and ice storms are impacting a large portion of the US. I spent over 50 years in northern climates: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Montana. Today, I live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, where we are usually blessed with a temperate climate. These days, I dread going out if wintry weather is predicted. Unlit, narrow, switchback mountain roads with no guardrails can be treacherous if covered in ice and snow, especially if untreated with salt or unplowed. I awoke to an icy fog, pine boughs bowed with the weight of icicles. As the sun rose and its radiant heat bore down on the scene, a constant “raining” sound occurred: the tinkle of ice and dripping water. Now, the trees stand upright, branches raised. It’s a good day to stay inside. Chili is cooking in the Crockpot, the aroma warming the senses. The perfect time to snuggle down with a good book. Or maybe go out and frolic in the snow, like these folks in  Washington, DC . You can view a delightful ...

When the weather is grey, damp, and cold, both my body and soul crave warm tasty comfort food. Easy go-tos are crockpot dishes or casseroles. Today I’ve put the crockpot to service. The meal comes from my German roots: sauerkraut enlivened with diced tomatoes, brown sugar, a bottle of stout, and caraway seed. Add a chopped tart apple; I’ve chosen a Macintosh apple. Sauté onion and garlic, two chopped boneless pork chops, and coins of beef Polska kielbasa in olive oil. Add to the pot and stir. Cook on warm for at least four hours. Enjoy served over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread. What is your favorite comfort food? Follow the Author at her  Website  or on  Twitter .