Best Corn on the Cob Ever

I recently came across this recipe for The Best Corn on the Cob.
I love Corn on the Cob and this sounds delicious.
This will be one of my Best of the Best recipes.
I'm simply posting the links photograph rather than re writing the recipe.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Olive Tapenade

We've spent a great deal of time in The South of France and in many other regions of France. We love Tapenade on a toasted slice of Baguette. Tapenade, Olives and Cheese are often included during an afternoon apéro along with great cocktails like Pernod.

The apéritif, or apéro as it's known in France, is a French ritual that combines drinks, food and friends.
Official evening apéro time typically takes place between 6pm. and 9pm. depending on when you're planning to have dinner. It's served before dinner.
We've even enjoyed it at 4:00 in the afternoon.

Here's a delicious Homemade Tapenade.
It's Vegetarian because a traditional Tapenade often includes Anchovies.

Here's what you'll need:
A Food Processor


2 Large Cloves of Garlic, minced
1 C of Kalamata Olives, pitted
4 tsp of drained Capers
1 Whole Pickled Piquillo Pepper, seeded
2 TBS of chopped fresh Parsley leaves
2 TBS Fresh Lemon Juice
2 TBS Olive Oil
1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Spoon all of the ingredients into a Food Processor.
Pulse until it's finely chopped. Leave it a bit Chunky. Don't create a Paste.

Remove to a Serving Bowl.
Serve accompanied by Toasted Slices of a Baguette or Toasted Pita Bread.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Mackinac Island Fudge

I was born and raised in Michigan. We spent many summers in Campgrounds throughout the State when we were kids. One of our favorite places to visit was Mackinac Island.
When we went camping we had a very large, 3 compartment tent and we hauled a speed boat.
I remember one summer my father attempted to take us to the Island in the boat. A terrible storm came up and we had to turn back. We never made it in our boat and my dad never attempted it again. The Island is a very charming tourist attraction.
One of the things they're famous for is the Homemade Fudge. A visit to the Island was never complete until we bought some Fudge.

This is my Straight Sided 8" X 8" Baking Pan.

Here is the recipe for Mackinac Island Fudge.

Here's what you'll need:
An 8" X 8" Baking Pan with straight sides, Buttered.
A Hand Held Electric Mixer

1/2 C Whole Milk
8 TBS Butter
1/2 C Brown Sugar
1/2 C Granulated Sugar
1/8 tsp Salt
1 tsp Vanilla
2 C Confectioner's Sugar
1/2 C Cocoa
1/2 C Chopped Pecans or Walnuts

In a Large Saucepan on Medium Heat:
Milk
Butter
Brown Sugar
Granulated Sugar
Salt
Bring to a Boil.
Boil for 6 minutes, not a minute less or a minute longer!
Stir constantly.

Remove from Heat.

Add:
Vanilla
Cocoa
Confectioner's Sugar

Beat with the Mixer until Thick and Creamy Smooth.

Fold in Pecans by Hand.

Spoon into the Buttered Pan.
Place the Pan in the Freezer for 20 minutes.

Remove and cut into squares.

OPTION:
Peanut Butter Fudge:
Reduce Butter to 4 TBS and Add 1/2 Cup of Creamy Peanut Butter to the Saucepan.
Continue Preparation as directed.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen.

Baked Scrambled Eggs for a Crowd

This is a great Brunch dish for a family gathering. It's perfect for Christmas morning.

You can easily prepare 2 recipes at the same time for a large gathering.

Here's what you'll need:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
1 - 9" X 13" Baking Dish

8 TBS of Butter, melted.
24 Large Eggs
2 tsp Salt
Pepper to taste.
2 1/2 C Whole Milk
Options:
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Chopped Green Onion


Pour melted butter into the Pan.
Swirl it to cover bottom and sides.

In a Large Mixing Bowl:
Eggs
Salt
Pepper to taste.
Whisk well.

Gradually Add:
Milk
Whisking after each addition.
Pour into the Pan.
Bake uncovered for 10 minutes.
Remove and Stir well.
Return to Bake an additional 10 - 15 minutes.



Options: Top with Shredded Cheddar Cheese and Chopped Green Onion during the last 10 minutes of Baking.
Serve Hot.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

There's nothing quite like the taste of Cornbread when it's made in a Cast Iron Skillet.

Here's a great recipe made with the addition of Jalapeño Pepper and Cheddar Cheese.

Here's what you'll need:
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. (Add the Vegetable Oil to the Skillet as it Preheats)
1 - 9" or 10" Cast Iron Skillet.


3 TBS Vegetable Oil
1 1/4 C Cornmeal
3 TBS Flour
1 C Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1/2 C Pickled Jalapeños roughly chopped.
1 tsp Salt
3/4 tap Baking Powder
3 TBS Butter, melted.
2 Large Eggs, beaten.
1 C Buttermilk
1/2 tsp Baking Soda dissolved in a bit of Water.


In a Mixing Bowl:
Cornmeal
Flour
Salt
Baking Powder
Whisk well.

Add:
Melted Butter
Stir to create a Sandy Texture.

Fold in the Cheese.

In another Mixing Bowl:
Eggs
Buttermilk
Whisk Well.

Gradually Add this to the Dry Ingredients.
Stir well by hand with a Wooden Spoon.

Pour Batter into the Hot Skillet.
Bake 20 minutes.
Transfer the Skillet to the Stovetop to Cool just until you can handle it.

Invert the Cornbread onto a Rack to cool slightly.
Serve Hot with Butter.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

French 75 Cocktail

French 75 is a Cocktail made from Gin, Champagne, and Lemon Peel for Garnish.
It's also referred to a 75 Cocktail or in France, simply...... Soixante-Quinze.

Here's what you'll need:
A Cocktail Shaker with Ice.
2 oz. Champagne
1/2 oz. Lemon Juice
1 oz. Gin.
Lemon Peel for Garnish.

In the Shaker:
Gin
Lemon Juice
Shake well.
Strain into a Champagne Glass.
Top with Champagne.
Garnish with Lemon Peel.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Vespers Martini, James Bonds favorite Cocktail in Casino Royale

Every James Bond fan will recognize the lines in this recipe as the first martini Bond ordered in Ian Fleming's 1953 book, "Casino Royale." It is possibly the most famous drink order in history, it's extremely precise, and recreating the Vesper martini at home is easier than you think.

Here's what you'll need:
A Cocktail Shaker with Ice.

3 oz. Gin
1 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Lillet
Lemon Peel


In the Cocktail Shaker:
Gin
Vodka
Lillet

Shake well and strain into a Martini Glass.
Add a Garnish of Lemon Peel.

Remember, "shaken, not stirred."

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen.

Egg Salad

Classic Egg Salad

Typically, I wouldn't post a recipe for Egg Salad. Americans take it for granted that an egg salad recipe would be included in a picnic. You may want to research All American Picnic Food on the Blog for the story and recipes about picnics.
Every Family has their favorite recipe and some of them have been handed down from generation to generation.
However, I have readers in many countries that may not be familiar with Egg Salad.

7 Large Eggs that have already been Hard Boiled and Peeled.
1 /4 C Mayonnaise
2 1/4 tsp Yellow Mustard
1/4 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
1/8 tsp  Tabasco Sauce ( I do not include it in mine)
2 TBS Sweet Pickle Relish
Salt and Pepper to taste.

In a Mixing Bowl:
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Vinegar
Tabasco
Whisk well.
Stir in Pickle Relish by hand.
Season with Salt and Pepper.

In another Mixing Bowl:
Hard Boiled Eggs
Use a Potato Masher or Blending Fork to break the Eggs into small chunks.
Add:
Mayonnaise Mixture.
Stir to combine well.

Variations:
Add any of these ingredients to the Egg Salad:
4 tsp Fresh Snipped Dill
4 tsp Chopped Fresh Parsley
1/4 tsp Smoked Paprika (add to Mayonnaise mixture first)
3 TBS Pimento

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Egg Salad in an Open Faced Sandwich

I love Egg Salad and I've previously posted and talked about Egg Salad.
Here is this week's recipe from the Taste section of the Dallas Morning News.
The article and recipe were written by J.M Hirsch / The Associated Press.

Something about this was intriguing to me. It may be the fact that it has Cornichons , a bit of Hot Sauce or simply because it's served open faced on toasted Sourdough Bread.

Open Faced Egg Salad Sandwich

1/2 C Mayonnaise
2 TBS Dijon Mustard
1/2 tsp Paprika
1/2 tsp Hot Sauce ( Tabasco)
1/2 C finely chopped Cornichons (pickles) ( 12 pickles)
1/2 C finely chopped Celery ( 1 stalk)
8 Hard Boiled Eggs, roughly chopped
Salt and Pepper
4 slices of Sourdough Bread

In a bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Paprika
Hot Sauce
Stir in:
Cornichons
Celery
Eggs
Season with Salt and Pepper

Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight

Serve:
Toast the slices of bread, while it's warm, top each slice with 1/4 C of the Egg Salad.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Thin and Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies

I happen to prefer a Thin and Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookie.

Here's what you'll need:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
A Stand Mixer
1-  1 1/2" Cookie Scoop
A Sheet Pan lined with Parchment Paper


2 1/4 C Flour
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
2 1/2 Sticks of Butter (20 TBS)  softened to room temperature.
1 1/4 C Granulated Sugar
3/4 C Brown Sugar
1 tsp Salt
1/4 C Water
2 tsp Vanilla
2 Eggs
2 C Chocolate Chips, your choice.

In a Small Mixing Bowl:
Flour
Baking Soda
Whisk well.
Set aside.


In the Stand Mixer with a Paddle Attachment:
Butter
Granulated Sugar
Brown Sugar
Beat for 3 minutes.

Reduce Speed to Low.
Add:
Salt
Water
Vanilla
Eggs
Beat for 2 minutes.

Add:
Flour
Mix just until combined. Don't over mix.

Fold in Chocolate Chips by hand.

Use the Cookie Scoop and drop Dough 2" apart on the Sheet Pan.
Bake 12 - 15 minutes.

Remove the Pan to a Rack to cool for 2 minutes.
Transfer Cookies to the Rack to Cool completely.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Breadstick Cream Cheese Dip, 2 versions

I was informed about a Dip at Anthony's Restaurant in Oakland County, Michigan. That's where I grew up. There was a discussion about how incredible their Breadstick Dip is. It's difficult to get the original recipe, but these are certainly options.

The first recipe is supposed to be the closest to the original.

Cream Cheese Dip #1

Here's what you'll need:
A Stand Mixer

8 oz. Cream Cheese, softened.
4 TBS Sour Cream
1 TBS Buttermilk
1/2 tsp Salt
1 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
2 TBS Grated Parmesan Cheese

In the Stand Mixer on Low Speed:
Cream Cheese
Sour Cream
Mix just until combined. Do not over mix.

Add:
Buttermilk
Salt
Garlic Powder
Parmesan Cheese
Mix just to combine well.

Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate for 2 days.

Serve at room temperature with Breadsticks.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!



Cream Cheese Dip #2

Here's what you'll need:
A Stand Mixer

8 oz. Cream Cheese, softened.
1/2 C Mayonnaise
2 TBS Dried Dill
2 TBS Dried Parsley
1 tsp Garlic Powder

In the Stand Mixer on Low Speed:
Cream Cheese
Mayonnaise
Dill
Parsley
Garlic Powder
Mix until Creamy Smooth.

Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate for 2 days.

Serve at room temperature with Breadsticks.

Enjoy!
Peace in the Kitchen!

Poems

Poems:

I have always written poems. I started writing poems of freedom while I was in college in the late 60's. Today I write poems about food....... about songs, my favorite things and life!

One day I sat outside the Bakery in our town waiting to pick up an order to go,
It was a beautiful, sunny, fall morning so I had a beer and decided to write some poems.
I take the opportunity whenever an idea comes into my head. I stop, write down a few 

key thoughts and create a poem.

For my Quilting friends:

900 Hexagons:

When I'm sewin'

you know I'm gonna be,

I'm gonna be the man

that's sewin' hard for me.

And when I wake up,

well I know I'm gonna be,

I'm gonna be the man 

sewin' Hexagons EPP.

And when I'm sewin'

you know I'm gonna be,

I'm gonna be the man that's sewin'

as hard as I can be.

And I will sew 500 Hexagons

and I will sew 400 more,

just to be the man that sews

900 Hexagons,

until my fingertips are sore!

So I will make 500 Hexagons

and I will make 400 more

and then I'll sew them all together 

until my fingers can't sew anymore!

terry

The Christmas Tree (2023)

As a very tiny pine tree,

don't you like what you see?.

But every other pine tree,

is much bigger than me.

Someday, when I grow up,

I'd really like to be,

A great Big Tall and Fat:

Merry Christmas Tree!

terry

We are One World!

We are all warmed by the same Sun.

We look up at the same Stars.

No one can tell by the soil where one Country ends and another begins.

We all laugh when we are Happy.

We all have the same Longings, Hopes and Heart Breaks.

We are Born, we Grow Old and we Die.

When Tyranny threatens or triumphs anywhere, then Freedom is threatened everywhere.

We may speak different languages but we can learn to communicate.

We are one World.

We should all be Living in Peace.

terry

YOU DON'T HAVE TO........

don't assume someone's issue isn't heavy

just because they carry it well.

don't feel the need to attend every argument

or stay with it when you can

walk away and bid it farewell.

you don't have to waste time 

worrying about what you could have done,

continue on a path and sometimes 

it's better if you simply walk, don't run.

your compassion should include yourself,

you don't have to feel alone.

continue on a loving path and

create a milestone.

you don't always have to open your door

when it would be better to keep it closed.

so, sometimes you're better off

keeping your feelings to yourself

and be sure you're not overexposed.

terry

IT'S NOT BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS! 2021

times are changing,

the weather is too!

climate change affects the lives of wildlife,

forests, mountains, me and you.

it's raining in Greenland, like never before.

fires are devastating forests and the forest floor.

without glacier ice, polar bears

will exist no more.

in the month of December,

the mountains are bare.

we should have snow, 

but there's nothing there.

the moon on the mountain

still casts a beautiful glow,

but it's not the same

when there isn't any snow.

without the cold, the snow

and the feeling of joy and simple blissmas,

times are changing and

It's Not Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas.

Don't get a feeling of total remisness,

we will always have the true meaning of

Christmas!

terry

PEACE:  

Peace is a leaf falling from a tree.

Peace makes us feel comfortable.

Peace is a friend during times of loneliness.

It's a tree being saved in a forest.

Peace is the end of violence in the world.

It's the calm in your heart.

Peace is what the world needs now.

It begins by showing respect.

PEACE!

Terry

Guidelines to Life:

Do one thing at a time.

Do it slowly and deliberately

Do it completely

Do less

Put space between things

Designate time for certain things

Devote time for sitting and relaxing

Smile while serving others

Make cleaning and cooking medatative

Think about what's necessary

Live simply

terry

The Light: 

We don't light a light to hide it.

We light it to create more light and open

our eyes to reveal the wonders that surround us.

Light your light and begin creating something wonderful.

terry

Onions:

onions can be prepared in so many ways.

grill them, roast them, chop them or bake them,

prepare them however you like to make them,

or sauté them and top them with balsamic glaze.

they can be simple or they can be gourmet,

I eat onions everyday.

how many types of onions can you name?

20 different kinds and no two are the same.

I like red, yellow, pearl and spanish too.

no matter what your favorites are, just remember:

onions are really good for you.

terry

Ignorance:

Ignorance happens

on two different ways.

Sometimes it goes away 

but often it stays.

Sometimes you listen,

but you don't hear.

This kind of ignorance is fueled by fear.

Seeking and understanding the truth

is enlightening.

Spreading and believing the alternative

is frightening.

Ignorance fuels anger,

misunderstanding 

and hate.

Asking forgiveness is usually too late.

terry!

Christmas Week:

This Good Morning you shall see

there are no recipes, just poetry.

The Hippy in the Kitchen

has recipes ready to make,

some I will cook, others I will bake.

Christmas week is here, the gifts are wrapped

and under the Tree.

The food prep begins and that's a favorite time for me.

As the Hippy in the Kitchen shares his Christmas Wishes,

he hopes you all are preparing your favorite Christmas Dishes.

To all of my followers wherever you may be, Enjoy Peace in the Kitchen and Merry Christmas from me.

terry

Busy!

I am busy.

You are busy,

We are busy two!

I hope that everyone you know

stays busy like me and you.

Oh so many busy people,

finding things to do.

Sometimes you have to look for busy,

Sometimes it finds you.

terry 

The World in the Year 2020

I know one day that I will say;
Covid-19 has gone away.
Unfortunately that day is not today.
The day will come, we don't know when,
but in the future it may return again.

We'd have to repeat,
every cautious
thing we've done,
to keep it at bay and protect everyone.

We've been told to
wash our hands, social distance
and wear a mask.
To some that becomes a daunting task.

Others believe if we
do those things each and every day,
hopefully if the virus returns
it may quickly go away.

The world changed in 2020.
Hurricanes, Earthquakes and a Pandemic Virus.
Racism, Brutality is all around us.

Some believe that if we pray,
the issues we're faced with
will go away.

So I kneel and look
to my God and pray,
and know that my God
can make a better day.

I believe with all my heart and soul
the confusion will eventually cease.
In order for that to happen in the world,
the world needs to come together
in Joy, Love and Peace!

Terry/2020



the world today!

it appears to me
we've lost our way.
some believe that if we pray,
we can't be lost,
we'll find our way.

when we take from the poor
and love no more,
then anger builds
and leads to war.

if sins are taught
when wars are fought,
mistakes are made,
but don't get caught.

everyday, lies are fed
and fill your head,
with things you can't believe.

from the first appearance
of light til eve,
it's nothing but
an evil war we weave.

the man speaks out
with a language to deceive,
while mothers, fathers,
sisters and brothers
are denied the right to grieve.

if you feel the need,
that you should pray
then pray for the day
that hate will cease,
and the world will
live as one in peace.

terry

Our Country Tis Not of Thee:

It's frightening that people cannot see,

he's a threat to our democracy.

His agenda doesn't include you and me

When he's followed by and supported by

A White Supremacist, a Skinhead and a Nazi.

If his election is lost in the year 2020,

he'll feel the need to even the score

By recruiting his evil supporters

To start a Civil War.

Adolf had a racist World view

And the man in the White House does too.

Hitler separated people of different races

And forced them into oppressive spaces.

He wanted to rid his country of minorities he hated

As our President would like minorities obliterated.

Negative energy will intensify and accelerate

With unprecedented intensity and speed.

Civil War could be on the horizon again,

Because of unrest, violence and greed.

There's a level of tension we haven't seen in years,

Creating strife, fear, anger and tears.

Our Country Tis Not of Thee,

It should be apparent for all to see.

terry/2020

a better day:

amid the chaos in the world,
despair and hurt and pain,
it appears to me the chaos is due
to nothing but selfish gain.

I believe with all my heart and soul,
the confusion can go away.

I kneel and look to my God to pray,
and know that my God can
make a better day.

terry/2020



away from the city!

we leave the city lights
to get away.
we trade them for the stars.
we head to the mountains
with backpacks and guitars.

on a peaceful day
when pine boughs sway,
there's silence in the air.
wind is whistling ,
snow is glistening.
I sit on the deck and stare,

there are mountains
with clouds in the distance,
topped with snow
and trees of green.
there are deer and wildlife
passing by,
to complete the peaceful scene.

we leave the city to get away
and find a peaceful place,
where life is completely different
and we live at a different pace.

we leave the city lights
to get away.
we trade them for the stars.

terry



I can't wait!

I can't wait until the day he goes away,
goes away and stays away.
never to see his face,
or hear from him again.

I can't wait until the day the lies will stop,
the hatred and all the lies will stop.
he lies and lies again,
each and every day.

I can't wait until something
good is done,
something constructive,
and good is done.
instead of never accomplishing
anything at all.

I can't wait until the people are
cared for again.
thought of and helped,
and cared for again.
I look forward to that very special day!

I can't wait until the fear is gone,
the fear of dying is truly gone.
the day when we have hope for the future,
and no one has to worry any more.

I can't wait until the world respects us again,
when they realize how great
we've always been.
when we have friends around the world
that really care.

I can't wait until the lies have stopped,
until he goes away.
I can't wait to wake up and realize,
that day is actually today!

terry


A Tyrant's Greed

war is a terrible thing I said,
countless numbers of needless dead.

a futile war it seems to be,
fought for nothing that I can see.

thousands of hearts continue to bleed,
for nothing more than a tyrant's greed.

terry




Empathy

don't pay for war,
make it go away.
build a bigger table.
feed the hungry everyday.

stop polluting the oceans,
lakes and seas.
respect the earth,
can you do that? please!

make the world a better place,
no matter your religion,
social position or race.

keep us healthy,
and show us you care.
is that too much for you to bear?

don't just surround yourself,
with billionaire after billionaire.
it's not just about you,
there are others out there.

terry


LISTEN TO THE GUNS:

a gun speaks,

it has the last word.

it solves issues ,

like revenge and fear.

it only takes a finger,
to destroy something near.

some loathe them,
some hold them dear.

a gun speaks,
the language is clear.
it only speaks once,
it's the last sound you'll hear.

listen to the guns


 Terry




Some People Can't:

there are those that
can't see the forest,
when looking at the trees.

they can't feel the wind,
when standing in a breeze.

some don't know when the truth is told.
and some can't figure out ,
silver isn't gold.

the world is a great big place,
differences in religion,
politics and race.

we may not agree,
but you can't exist
without seeing the tree.

terry




the mistake

if a snake bites a fool twice,
it's never good or ever nice.
this one only bit us once,
to prove to all
he's just a dunce.

lies continue while
promises fail.
emptiness filled without detail.
it's time to stop the fool
bitten by the snake,
from making:
mistake
after mistake,
what a mistake!

terry




I and me!

who needs food and roads
and clean air,
when we can have guns and bombs
and a life of despair.
who needs compassion for others
or letting our country know we care,
when we can take from some
and never share.
who needs peace and love
and a world of tolerance,
when we continue to create a world
filled with violence.
sympathy, empathy, mercy and kindness
cannot be achieved while living in blindness.
open your eyes and you will see,
there's more to the planet than just

I and me!

terry



lies, lies, everywhere lies!

you see what others cannot see.
you fill them with your lies.
you make them think
things that aren't there,
are directly in front of their eyes.

soon they shout,
did you see?
did you hear?
did you know that's really true?
whether or not it is,
they want you to
believe that what you heard,
is honestly based on a truthful word.

and in the end,
when truth be told:
the lies aren't really true.
you soon realize,
that what you believed,
was nothing but
a trick that's been
played on you!

terry




maybe!

maybe I need to write a poem,
or maybe I really don't.
maybe I'll start to write it down,
or maybe I really won't.

maybe I need to take some time.
decide if I will, or not.
maybe I'll begin with my paper and pen,
sit down and start to jot......!
jot down my thoughts, ideas and words,
the one's that rhyme a lot.

I think I have it,
or maybe I don't.
so maybe I'll start,
and maybe I won't.
maybe!

terry



What's happening to the American Dream?

You left your homeland,
for minimum pay.
You strive for a better life,
day by day.

You miss your children.
You miss their voices.
You've sacrificed for them,
making better choices.

You only want to chase
the American Dream.
Have a roof over your head,
a small space, bursting at the seam.

You have to keep your head down.
You can't speak or misbehave.
Unfortunately you've become,
a 21st century slave.

They said the door was open,
it's what they used to say.
But now we don't want you.
We hunt you everyday.

After the dream is done,
you become a deportee.........
So much for living in the land of the free.

terry

Let me make that perfectly clear!

look over there .
don't look here.
look far away.
don't look near.
the thing you see, may not be clear,
so pay attention to that
and not what's here.
don't listen to them,
for I know best.
you're thoughts don't matter,
I'm on a quest.
what I say today is important,
only to me.
it hides the truth about what
you think you see.

so,
look over there,
and don't look here.
the most important thing
is that I make myself clear.

terry

strangers!

you've come here from another place.
I don't know your name, just face.

we pass each other everyday,
no conversation,
nothing to say.
if we live in fear and pending danger,
and ignore each other,
you'll remain a stranger.

terry

Ode to the Artichoke!

I gave a dinner party, and I served some artichokes!

The guests began to laugh and make rude remarks and jokes.

They said, " these things could stick us" and they threw them on the floor.

I turned around, I walked away and thought I'd just ignore!

Then, I jumped up on the table and I began to say:

"what would you expect from a vegetarian, a meat filled, appetizer tray"?

Yes, artichokes are prickly, but I promise they won't hurt.

If you pick them up and eat them, I will serve a nice dessert!

The guests looked quite embarassed and they said " we have to go",

leaving artichokes all over, on the table and below!

So, I picked them up and placed them in the fridge, upon a shelf.

And everyday, for breakfast, I enjoy one by myself!

terry

Peas in the Kitchen!

Peas in the kitchen,

Peas in the pot!

Peas aren't for everyone, cold nor hot.

I happen to enjoy them, I guess I always did.

I just put them in some water in a pot that has a lid, 

I cook them 'till they're tender, like my grandma always did.

I serve them on a platter just as plain as they can be.

I melt a bit of butter then I turned around to see,

There are others at the table waiting patiently for me!

So, I offer them with pleasure, "help yourselves" if you please.

They turn around and say to me,

"No Thank You", we hate Peas!

terry

peace:

live in peace

breathe in peace

eat in peace

drink in peace

talk in peace

pray in peace

think in peace

meditate in peace

move in peace

die in peace

bathe and plunge in the ocean of peace

purify your thoughts in peace

imbibe the honey of peace

love in peace

cleanse yourself in the fire of peace

peace!

terry

A Hippy Poem:

One day while strolling

far from home.

I thought of just

the perfect poem.

It was so profound

I began to race,

to find the perfect writing place.

From my pocket

came a pen and pad.

I thought, where is that poem I had?

Too late ,  the verse

had left my head.

So, I decided to write

this one instead!

terry!

The 60's Groove:

listen to the way we move,
it's a flashback to our 60's groove.

it was about flower power,
the sun's delight.
psychedelic posters,
glowing from a black light.

haight was not the evil we create
but a corner with ashbury,
in the california state.

power was the flower
not the war and chaos,
we heard about.
"stop the war", "live in peace".
were the slogans we all would shout.

you could speak to us
in the 60's, in psychedelic rhyme.
in all of it's confusion,
it defined the time.

festivals of music,
freedom in the park,
always living in the light
trying to avoid the dark.

music moved us,
it was our voice.
we spoke of freedom,
we spoke of choice.

love was abounding,
it was the way we moved.
it was the way we dressed
and the way we grooved!

terry
enjoy peace !

I previously posted two poems that I wrote about food ( Peas in the Kitchen and Ode to the Artichoke).  I recently saw this one by Ken Nesbitt and thought I'd add a bit of humor to the blog today. I need to write another food poem!

Vegetables:

Mashed potatoes on the ceiling.

Green beans on the floor.

Stewed tomatoes in the corner.

Squash upon the door.

Pickled peppers in my pocket.

Spinach up my sleeves.

Mushrooms in my underpants with

leeks and lettuce leaves.

Okra, onions, artichokes,

asparagus and beets;

buried neatly underneath the

cushions of our seats.

All the rest I've hidden in my socks

and down my shirt.

I'm done with all my vegetables.

I'm ready for dessert!

--Kenn Nesbitt

Enjoy!

Peace in the Kitchen!




Reach:

Be the person you want to be,
reach up and grab that star.
Read, Learn, Teach yourself,
to be more than what you are.

Never allow others to define you or change you,
be Strong and have a Voice.
Make Changes while you can in life,
And know you have a Choice.

A Choice to Rise,
A Choice to Shine.
A Choice to be more than you are,
Become the person you want to be,
Reach up and Grab that Star!

terry



Good Timber
(an excerpt from the poem)

"good timber
does not grow with ease:
the stronger the wind,
the stronger trees.
the further sky,
the greater length.
the more the storm,
the more the strength.

by sun and cold,

by rain and snow,

in trees and good men

good timbers grow."

Douglas Malloch



Calm after the Storm:

darkness fades
suns rise
skies clear
storms die
wounds heal
spirits fly
hearts sigh
stories end
dreams die
tears fall
I cry
you're  gone
we survive

A.N. Flores



Flashback:

yesterday, I was so looking forward to tomorrow.
now that it's here, it's today.
so, tomorrow only exists in our minds, right?
Or am I having a 60's moment?
Peace!

terry


Christmas:

sitting by the fire
enjoying the decor.
the lights, the sounds
and fragrances of Christmas.
who could ask for anything more?

terry


Life #2:

love each other
be kind
serve others
be joyful
tell the truth
have faith
give thanks
forgive
be patient
imagine peace!

terry



Colorado:

I bought some land in Colorado,
to enjoy some summer fun.
So, we'll be leaving our home in Texas,
to escape the blazing sun.
We look forward to being lazy,
doing nothing during the day.
And then we'll sit and watch the stars,
and waste the night away.
We'll rise and shine so early,
to begin another day.
And look forward to doing nothing,
during our entire stay!

terry



I shall pass through this world but once ,
If therefore there be any kindness I can show,
or any good thing I can do,
Let me do it now.....
for I shall not pass this way again.

terry



The Job:

Terry's been a visual manager for 38 years or so.
He really has enjoyed his job,
but now it's time to go.
He'll have plenty of time to blog and cook,
and give his lawn a mow.
So let's wish him happy retirement,
as he swaps his car for a hoe!

terry



now is the time to have a good breakfast,
continue to tend to our gardens,
mind our manners,
courageously embrace compassion,
nurture the heart,
and begin the next phase of the transformation of humanity!

terry



Time:

when wednesday was here,
it felt like friday.
and thursday felt like it too.
so, friday is here and I can't believe,
I have no idea of what to do!

terry



Rain:

the temperature drops,
the sky turns grey.
I think it's going to rain today.
I open the window,
I feel the breeze,
it begins to rain,
I feel at ease.
I love the rain,
it makes me smile.
I certainly hope it stays for  awhile!

terry


A Jazz Musician plays a thousand notes
to please 3 people.
A Rock Musician plays 3 notes
to please a thousand people!


Life #3

one raindrop raises the sea
survival of all or none
weapons are enemies, even to their owners
give more, take less
others first, self last
observe, listen and learn
do one thing at a time
sing everyday
exercise imagination
eat to live, don't live to eat
find the light

terry


always put something mad
on top of something very good
or something very good
on top of something mad!

George Bennison

Life #4:

quit your day job
see the world
fall in love
find yourself!

Jac Vanek ( a friend of taylor mosher)


Sleep:

sleep escapes me,
how can that be?
it invited me early,
after a Cuppa Tea.

it promised me comfort and time alone,
no computer, no t.v., not even my phone.

I took advantage of the invitation,
turned out the light..... and tried to sleep.
adjusted the pillow, the blanket and slid under the sheet.

I tried and tried,
but to my dismay,
sleep escaped me until another day.

hopefully tomorrow I'll get it right,

until then I just can't sleep through the night.

terry

A Vegetarian's Thanksgiving song parody:

Because you know I'm all about the sides,
Bout the sides, no trouble.
I'm all about the sides
Bout the sides, no trouble!

Yeah, it's pretty clear,
I like the sides too.
And I can shake it bake it,
Like I'm supposed to do.

So, this Vegetarian's here,
To make it all clear.
That it's all about the sides,
Bout the sides,no trouble!

terry



A Michigan Winter 

It's winter in Michigan,
as the wind begins to blow.
Seventy miles an hour,
at thirty five below.

Oh how I love Michigan,
when the snow's up to your butt.
You take a breath of Winter Air,
and your nose gets frozen shut.

Of course the weather there is wonderful,
So stay and hang around.
You may never ever leave Michigan,
because you'll be frozen to the ground!

terry!


Twas 4 Months Before Christmas!

Twas 4 months before Christmas,
the attic was full of stuff.
Like garlands and lights and ornaments
and trees and tiny houses and skis
and sleds and skates and it's never enough!

The greenery was hung,
from the rafters with care.
In hopes that I'd remember
how I used it last year.

It was 3 am and running through my head,
were visions of displays, as I arose from my bed.

"the moon on the breast
of the new fallen snow".....
Wait, I live in Texas,
it's 110 degrees you know!

I put on my Shorts,
Flip Flops and a Tee.
And, up toward the attic,
I started to flee.

I opened the door and I shouted and hollered,
and I began to scream!
The decorations were a mess,
Was this really a dream?

I dragged it all out of the attic,
without care.
The decorations and lights,
were strewn everywhere.

At that point I realized that help would be nice.
I woke up Anne and asked for advice!
More rapid was her response,
and like a Nightmare it came,
as she sat up in bed and started to name....

Now Pappy,
call Jason,
call Laura,
call Kate and Andy.
Ask Taylor to come,
the help would be handy!

I knew at that moment,
as I felt an ache in my head.
I should pull back the covers,
and just go back to bed!

"as dry leaves that before
the wild hurricane fly,
when they meet with an obstacle,
mount to the sky."
Who remembers that verse 
in the poem about St. Nicholas?
All I remembered was,
the decorations can wait
until The Night Before Christmas!

terry 


Christmas :

.....all the stockings are filled, except one.
have you forgotten to hang it up?
the stocking for the child born in a manger.
after all it's his birthday we're celebrating.
Don't let us ever forget that.
let us ask ourselves what he would ask for most.
and then......
let each put in his share:
loving kindness
warm hearts
and a stretched out hand of tolerance.
all the shining gifts make Peace on Earth.

happy new year!

ring out the old, ring in the new.
ring out the false, ring in the true.
ring in the happy, ring out the sad.
ring in the good and ring out the bad.

terry.

Snow!

you awake in the morning,
blinded by white.
Bare trees, plows,
only snow in sight.
people shoveling,
there's so much snow.
roofs are covered,
cars driving slow.
Kids making angels and snowmen,
having a blast.
you stare out the window,
how long will it last?

terry


the days of .......... retirement!

it's three in the morning,
what shall I do?
I'll write a poem about the days of the week.
That's what I'll do.

was yesterday monday?
or was it sunday a week ago?
tomorrow is thursday.
that much i know.

but if the next day is wednesday,
which i'm not sure it is.
then, tuesday's been lost,
like every friday is.

saturday has to be near,
my calendar says it's so.
but i'm still not sure what day it was,
a week ago!

terry

Binding and Sleeve:

binding and sleeve,
binding and sleeve.
I'd rather cut fabric than binding and sleeve.
no glory,
no glory.
It's just my pet peeve,
I'd rather cut fabric than binding and sleeve.

just give me some fabric,
cut into pieces to sew.
A machine,
plenty of thread,
and no place to go.

I finished piecing a top,
added batting and back.
I spent months hand quilting,
not a stitch out of whack!

The top is done,
but here comes my pet peeve.
I must concentrate now,
on binding and sleeve.

binding and sleeve,
binding and sleeve.
I'd rather cut fabric than binding and sleeve.
no glory,
no glory.
It's just my pet peeve,
I'd rather cut fabric than binding and sleeve.

terry


Pie, a poem about Pie and a Pie Box!

Make it
Bake it
Box it
Share it

Cut it
Eat it
Take the Box home,
Clean it
Store it!

The next time when I think of Pie,
I'll read this Poem and realize,
I should:

Make it
Bake it
Box it
Take it

Share it
Cut it
Eat it
Taste it!

terry

Imagine Peace!

Love Each Other
Be Kind
Say Your Prayers
Serve Others
Be Joyful
Tell The Truth
Have Faith
Give Thanks
Forgive
Be Patient
Imagine Peace!

terry

ALWAYS:

I want to always remember that no one is going to
make my dreams come true for me.
It's my job to get up every morning,
work toward the things that are deepest in my heart,
and enjoy every step of the journey,
rather than wishing I was already where I want to end up.

terry

Life Lessons:

do one thing at a time.
do it slowly and deliberately.
do it completely.
do less.
put space between things.
develop rituals.
designate time to sitting.
smile and serve others.
think about what is necessary.
live simply.

terry

Don't Let the Kids Play Today:

Keep your kids close by,
don't let them out to play.
Guns are now all around you.
Bullets go astray.

Guns allowed in the Coffee Shops,
allowed in a Store.
Make them go away,
we don't need them anymore.

We need Peace, not Violence.
Enough is Enough.
Stop the Gun Violence,
Make the Gun Laws Tough!

Keep your kids inside,
don't allow them to play.
Guns are killing us,
everyday, everyday! 

terry.

Food:

Food is what I talk about most.

I guess I have to as a Food Blogging host.

I like corn and squash and desserts galore.

I can always find a topic and talk about more.

I'm passionate about the things I cook.

You can check out my Blog and take a look.

Search a food category or a Spice you prefer ,

A Vegetable, a Fruit or a Casserole you can stir.

Read a recipe and print it,

and make it with care.

Return to the blog to find something to share.

Always remember if you can't make a decision,

You can always rely on the Hippy in the kitchen!

And don't forget the motto I'm pitchin',

You will find happiness when you

Enjoy!

Peace in the Kitchen!

terry

Life:

sing because you love to,
write, if it's your passion.
love because it's easy.
forgive others before you
forgive yourself.
seek diversity in life.
embrace everyone you meet.
smile for every reason,
not just for one.
always look forward to tomorrow,
enjoy your life.
have fun!

terry


I wrote this song for the Dulcimer while I was on vacation at our home in Westcliffe, Colorado. June, 2016. I named our property Snowy River when I purchased it in 1990.

Snowy River 

Snowy River, on my mountain,
It's the place I like to be.
Colorado calls me back there,
to peace and quiet, serenity.

Melting snow feeds ice cold rivers.
drifting down from mountain streams,
into summer's fresh green valleys,
after winter's ski bum dreams.

There's a fragrance in the air there,
pinion pines in summer's breeze.
As you hike and listen closely,
hear the leaves of aspen trees.

Snowy River whispers gently,
calls to me when I'm not there.
Draws me back to share it's night sky,
golden sunshine and mountain air.

On my mountain, Snowy River,
it's the place I long to see.
Colorado calls me back there,
to peace and quiet, serenity.

terry


Mistakes:

Do we learn from our mistakes?
Some are known to say.
For every mistake made,
there's a price to pay.

Some are capable of learning fast,
others repeat mistakes from the past.
We hope we learn from our mistakes,
when all is said and done!

Learning from our past,
to all does not apply.
So, some repeat the same mistakes,
it makes me wonder............ why?

terry



.......and when I die!

i don't want flowers
i don't want tears.
don't say how much you'll miss me
for years and years and years!
don't fly from far away to come and say goodbye,
call me today, just to say hi!
if you love me so much,
what are you waiting for?
stop by to see me today,
knock on my door.
don't wait until I'm gone,
to say the things you could never say.
love me now!
love me today!

terry



kindness and grace:

in 1968, we wanted
to stop the hate!
today, we want
to stop the mean!

not much has happened
over all these years.
we've tried,
but still can't eliminate the fears.

travel the world
and you will see,
we live in the best place
you'd ever want to be.

life is good,
life is great!
we can end the fear,
and stop the hate.

love one another,
make an effort to be kind.
keep looking forward.
don't look behind.

the world can be a peaceful place,
if everyone would live with kindness and grace!

terry


remember:

remember the things
that make you glad.
forget the things
that make you sad.

remember the friends
that stay with you.
forget the friends
that seem untrue.

remember the blessings
that abound each day.
forget the troubles
that have gone away.

Terry


The Christmas Elk:

i gazed out my window
at dusk on christmas eve.
i stared into the forest of pines
at an elk that wouldn't leave.

i'd never seen one in the wilderness before,
it was majestic and beautiful
standing outside my door.

the holiday lights on the cabin
cast a glow,
i could see it's reflection
on the new fallen snow.

it must have been there for a reason,
but why?
i stared at it with a curious look in my eye.
within seconds it fled as i waved goodbye.

i went outside
and looked back at the place,
where i experienced my first elk.......
face to face!

terry


All Hallow's Eve!

on the blackest of night
there are witches that fright
on brooms about the air.
they stalk you with their presence
chanting verses that will scare.

They scare you when you're sleeping,
They scare when you're awake.
visions of witches burning,
something on a stake.

the images are frightening
black cauldron's bubbling brew.
the fright causes you to tingle,
your body aches through and through.

you've seen them flying across the sky
casting shadows from a moonbeam.
you sit up in your bed at midnight
from a nightmare in a dream.

do they really exist? do you think they do?
just walk around on All Hallow's Eve.
and when you see them in the sky,
think twice about whether you believe!

terry


baking cookies!

It's cold outside, what shall I do?
bake cookies for myself,
a dozen or two.

I create a dough,
oh my that tastes great!
bake cookies, what was I thinking?
I'm not sure I can wait.

The bowl of dough, smells so good.
I know I shouldn't,
or maybe I should!

I fill a spoon, and here I go,
spoonful by spoonful
I ate all of the dough.

My stomach aches
and I feel bad.
but if I had eaten the cookies,
would I feel glad?

I don't believe I would,
although!
the next time I bake cookies........
I believe I'll eat the dough!

terry


Fabric & Quilts

see it
love it
buy it
cut it
imagine it's a quilt

design it
stitch it
put it back together
imagine it's a quilt

batt it
bind it
wash it
enjoy it
because now you've made a quilt!

terry


Us and Them

us and them
it's where we are
it doesn't have to be

us and them
is where we were
it's very plain to see

hopefully we'll realize
it doesn't have to be

we can get along
and live in harmony
through peace and love
we could be strong
and end this, you and me

us and them
you and me
it doesn't have to be

live together
love each other
and live in harmony

terry


My Poetry:

My thoughts are expressed in poetry.

don't judge me if you don't agree.

My freedom of speech allows it to be,

so read and enjoy my poetry.

terry

frustration and angst:

frustration and angst
is not something we embrace.
it's easy to diffuse,
when we come face to face.

on social media it can often take
all of us to an uncomfortable place.
it's not worth an argument,
it's not worth the fight.
you're never wrong, you're never right.

we may not understand each other's belief,
ceasing to argue can provide relief.
I'll keep posting music and recipes too,
and end the angst between me and you.

terry




In the year 2020:

In the year 2020
life came to a halt and changed.
The world as we knew it
was instantly re-arranged.

We were told to stay inside,
shelter at home,
as if we were to
hide and be alone.

We're trying to avoid a
disease,
a virus that quickly spread
and left no one at ease.

We can't escape it.
There doesn't seem to be a way out.
We've tried to understand it,
but we still don't know what it's all about.

Thousands are dying everyday,
and there are those that believe
they can just wish it away.
Some have come to the conclusion
that Covid-19 is here to stay.

Life as we knew it has gone away!

terry



Loss

For some reason
it's OK,
to lose things
everyday!

But times have changed
and it's sad to say,
it's lives we're now losing
day after day.

First an illness
and then a virus.
Death around the world
began to surround us.

It got out of control,
it became an epidemic
and overnight it took over the world,
and it's now a Pandemic.

Terry



The Sun Will Come:

When things seem dark
and you feel alone,
when the rain won't stop
and you're far from home,
when you think all is lost
and you just want to run,
it won't last forever,
be calm and wait for the sun.

When you're in pain
and friends can't be found,
when you feel the need to scream
but you don't hear a sound,
when you believe you're at fault
and you feel like you're done,
sit back and wait for the sun.
the sun will come.

The storm will pass,
it doesn't last forever.
the rain always stops
and gives way to good weather.
the brightest and warmest of days will come.
just wait for the sun,
the sun will come.

People who need you
and those who love you
will warm your soul
like the sun above you.
you're not alone
no matter what's been done.
just wait for the sun,
the sun will come.

Darkness will pass
and when it's done,
your friends will be waiting with you,
waiting for the sun.

terry

The Quilt Show:

The Quilt Show is coming

my entries are done.

We spend a weekend of seeing the Show

and 3 days of fun.

Our friends gather together.

We shop, have lunch 

and catch up on great stories.

When the Ribbons are hung,

we celebrate and share in the glories.

We go home,

filled with inspiration.

We start gathering fabric, needle and thread

to begin our next creation.

During the year we  sew together

with our Bees and at Retreats.

We attend Guild meetings 

and share our progress at Meet & Greets.

Our Quilts can vary in size.

Some are big and some can be small.

Some are  made for a bed,

while others often hang on a wall.

Some quilters sew them on a machine,

and there are those that create them

all by hand.

Our quilts can be simple,

or our quilts can be grand.

When our quilts are all finished,

there's one thing we all know,

we look forward to seeing them

in the coming year's 

Quilt Show.

terry

ABBA:

while listening to sixties music in 1973,

Eurovision had a third place winner

that was so interesting to me.

they returned to the Eurovision Competition in 1974,

when the world wanted to hear more.

they finished by taking the top prize,

and walked away the winners

to no one's surprise.

I decided to write a poem 

A- bout the 

B-and, that was

B-eloved and

A- lluring.

they recorded their music 

and started touring.

together with Agnetha, Benny and Björn,

along with Anni

the band was born.

disco became their genre of choice.

Dancing Queen became their

recognizable voice.

Thank You For The Music"

without it, what would life be?

"without a song or a dance, what are we?"

so I say Thank You For The Music,

and for giving it to me.

terry