Tortellini Casserole

Here’s a super quick and easy casserole-style dish you can make on the weekend and then divide up single-servings for lunches or dinners the following week. 1 package mushroom tortellini 1/2 cup dried mushrooms, chopped 1 can cannelini beans (or 2 c cooked white beans of any variety) 4 small tomatoes, seeded 1 head broccoli, [...]

Ammonia-Laced Pink Slime

From the NY Times:
Eight years ago, federal officials were struggling to remove potentially deadly E. coli from hamburgers when an entrepreneurial company from South Dakota came up with a novel idea: injecting beef with ammonia.

It’s the little things

My dad was able to get himself upstairs last night and sleep in his own bed. He was also strong enough to stand long enough for a shower. He’s still recovering from the recent complications, and his legs are really weak. But he’s improving a little each day. The little things are all that matters.

Grief

Sometimes, the best thing to say is “how are you doing?” But only if you mean it, and are willing to hear the answer. Just STFU and just listen. No need to say you’re sorry, or try to comfort. Just asking is enough.

Overheard at the hospital

While visiting my dad on Christmas, we overheard a conversation that had us all giggling. There was a 92-year-old man in the next bed. Poor guy wanted sourdough toast, and nobody would bring him any because it wasn’t on his approved list. After the guy asked for toast for about the 12th time, Dad said, [...]

Portuguese Style Kale Soup

A hearty kale and sausage soup that’s very easily converted for the vegetarians. Cooked in a slow cooker or simmered on the stove, this makes a delicious, satisfying and filling winter dinner.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to you all. 2009 was a rough year for many of us, and in fact 2000-2009 was a bit of a rough decade. My hope is for 2010 to be significantly better. My wishes for the new year: For my father to be the one person who beats one of the deadliest [...]