My Parents Came To Visit

Mom and Dad drove over eight hundred miles just to visit us. We planned and prepared for their visit. Now they have been here and gone. It is hard to live so far away from family. We enjoyed their visit so much. The things we did with them are still very clear in my mind, and I am thankful for pictures. These memories will fill the void for a little while, and then I will need to go and visit them or have them come back to be here with us.
As I get older I see how important relationships are. I was so glad that my kids had this short time to become closer friends with their grandparents. I always learn a lot from conversations with my parents, and I am sure my kids do also. I am grateful for this. I hope my kids realize what great blessings that grandparents are. I know what a great blessing parents are... Though they are not perfect, they are special, and they are mine. I need them. I wish we could live closer together. God willing maybe one day we will.

Cornbread Mini Loaves

I made these Cornbread Mini Loaves for our Forth of July picnic. I over heard someone asking, "Who made the cornbread?", and when it was all gone people wanted more.
I like to make this recipe for an outing because it is sweet enough by itself. It doesn't need honey, so there is no mess. A little butter is good, though not necessary.

3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup unbleached flour
2/3 cup sugar
2/4 tsp. salt
3 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 cup milk
1 large egg, slightly beaten
1/4 cup light olive oil


Stir dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Add milk, egg, and oil. Beat thoroughly. Pour into buttered non-stick mini loaf pan. Fill each loaf 1/2 full. One batch will make seven mini loaves. Bake at 400 for 14-16 minutes. Center will be set and edges golden brown when done.

My Cottage and Me

 I am looking forward to sharing a little of my home and myself with you. I have always enjoyed making newsletters that I shared only with my children, my husband, and my parents. (Hi, Mom and Dad. I love you.)
I am excited to think about what I will post on my blog. It is my hope that you will relax and enjoy the time you spend here.