Substance of Living

If you find yourself single for whatever reason on this Valentine's Day, send out thoughts of love and let the self-pampering begin.   Treat yourself special.  After all, aren't you the best person to be around? Whether February the 14th falls on a work day or not, enjoy some quality time throughout this month.  Here are some ways to luxuriate in your independence: Have fun! Make a Cuddle Basket the day before to enjoy during tonight's movie marathon or some good ol' binge watching of your favorite series.  Include items like a new throw blanket, hot chocolate ( here or here ), gourmet popcorn , and some semi-homemade cookies . Swaddle in your blanket and journal or read. Linger in your lounging wear. Dress up and go to a museum. Treat yourself to something at a spa. Try going tech-free; set your phone for emergency or to receive calls only from your favorites list. Go sightseeing in your own city or visit somewhere that's within a day's drive. Cook yourself a ...

Fall weather or cold winter days require soup.  Soup that is filling to the soul and stomach: That's what this African Spinach Coconut Soup does. I haven't physically traveled much outside the United States but through technology and cuisine I can visit any country my heart desires without having to get shots, update my passport, or visit an airport. In fact, DH and I have friends who live outside the United States and we get to talk with them on a regular basis due to the internet and mobile phones.  I mean, really, how fantastic is that?  I can be in Canada, Australia, across the United States, and in Turkey all in one day.  DH spoils me to no ends.  :-) Now, I get to visit Africa... African Spinach Coconut Soup Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Grapeseed Oil 1 cup Onion, chopped 1 tablespoon Garlic, minced 16 oz Spinach, thawed 1/4 teaspoon Pepper 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper 1 can Chopped Tomatoes 1 teaspoon Curry Powder 1 tablespoon Miso ...

I'm not technically a Southerner but I've lived in the Carolinas longer than anywhere else.  So, I think it is about time for me to start incorporating some southern traditions into my family. Appetizers Long before I moved to the sunny southern states, I fell head-over-heals with pickled watermelon rind.  That's where we will begin this  Southern Thanksgiving Menu . Pickled Watermelon Rind Main Dish Fried Turkey seems to be everywhere now.  Years ago, when I first heard about it, I thought how odd to not cook a turkey in the oven.  Here we are today and deep fryers can be found in the grocery stores. Best Ever Fried Turkey Side Dish My dad makes the absolute BEST stuffing ever!  (I have to say that since that was all I ever knew growing up and have tried to emulate it since).  I remember my first cornbread stuffing and although it was different from what I knew, it certainly was delicious. Cornbread Sausage Stuffing Regardles...

I might have to have another party so I can serve up these delectable delicacies.  Who wouldn't want to eat things that crawl or control our bodily functions? I wonder if Megan was ever on one of those reality shows where the contestants have to eat bugs.  These stuffed cockroaches will be the hit of the party. Stuffed Cockroaches (Goat Cheese Filled Dates) Have you checked out Examiner for halloween tips?  Joanie Pimentel with Sunset Magazine came up with these creepy deviled eggs.   Spooky Spider Eggs Nikki of Canary Girl is serving up some deliciously gross intestines.  Would you like yours savory or sweet? Intestines In case the cockroaches, spiders and intestines weren't enough to get you hungry, how about a little slice of brain by KiffaKitty . Brain Cake I'm so sorry!  I couldn't help myself.  When I came across this last one, it seemed to fit in with the other body organs. Bleading Heart Brie In all seriousn...