Recent Travels - Part 1

We've recently returned from our mostly simultaneous trips. Rich went to Oregon for ten days or so to visit his dear friend Larry and I went to California to see our kids, be part of a baby shower for Renee and spend time with Mom and my siblings.  Rich loved the fall foliage in Oregon! I enjoyed the mild California weather.

As it turned out, Mom fell before I left Kansas and ended up in the hospital. It was a tough time for her and we five kids but she is home now with 24/7 care. She's able to get about some with her walker and spends most of her days resting in her recliner.

I always welcome a great big hug from Cole!

Katelyn and Allison were so excited to show me their guinea pigs. This is two of the three, Nutmeg and April (I think!)

Kate, Allie and I made one of the appetizers for Renee's shower, Cheese Crispies, a recipe from my sister, Cheryl. Kate is especially good in the kitchen! She made the two appetizers that Caroline planned, an Artichoke Wonton, and a Tortilla Wrap with cream cheese, sour cream and black olives. Caroline also made chocolate dipped strawberries! Yummy!

Caroline, Lauren, Jordyn and I joined Gina (Renee's Mom on the left) and her sister Janelle (on the right)  for lots of food prep for the shower. Janelle made two delicious salads, one pasta, the other green, both with chicken and lots of wonderful veggies. More photos from the shower later.

Here's the recipe for the Cheese Crispies:

1 stick butter (at room temperature)
1 cup sharp grated cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rice krispies
Dash Tabasco

Blend butter and cheese - hands work best for this! Add Tabasco, mix well and then add rest of ingredients. Shape in small balls and put on ungreased cookie sheet. Press tops with a fork to flatten. Bake 15-20 minutes at 325-350 degrees. Makes about 20, although balls about the size of a quarter may yield more. A great recipe for kids to make! Enjoy!

We're back in the swing of things at home, although it took several days of rest! It's supposed to hit 31 degrees in Newton tonight so we've taken in all the outside furniture, yard art and stepping stones (all 40 of them!) Weather is changing!