Highlights

Playing
Originally uploaded by ellenjohnrubicon.

This week?

I am finally, fully, back to school. On a task force researching Veterans Issues, learning a ton about neurotransmitters, and PTSD. Last semester was one of reflection. This one seems to be more about action.



Sophie's class held a "Teddy-Bear picnic." She took John's 44-year-old teddy bear, Pooh, who is literally falling apart with all the years and love. The hit? She told the class he'd been on a submarine (which is true!) They were very impressed.

In pool news: Rosy is swimming underwater! Sophie has mastered the art of the mask and snorkel and is thrilled with her new trick. We all got in to celebrate with them yesterday. Family swim! In hot tub temps. This marina certainly rocks for the family set.

Our neighbor asked me for our corn chowder recipe last week. It was a highlight of the menu this week, so I finally remembered to write it down. Enjoy! Happy Sunday-

Corn Chowder (adapted from Citymama)

Whenever you add something to the pot, remember to add a little salt, too. I use a big cast-iron pot. Any big soup pot would work.

Cook 4-5 strips chopped bacon over medium heat until cooked though nearly crispy. Then add a small diced onion, 2-3 stalks of diced celery, and a green pepper (if you wish) and let them cook down.

Chop 4-5 red or yellow potatoes (never Russets) into bite-size pieces.
Carefully scrape the kernels from the 4-5 ears of fresh corn using a paring knife.

Add the potatoes to the pot and add just enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and then turn down to a simmer. Cook under the potatoes are nice and tender.
Spend a few minutes skimming foam off the surface of the soup. It's nasty and clouds up your broth.

When potatoes are done, toss in the corn kernels, along with a cup or so of milk or half-and-half. Let it just heat through (don't boil it again), turn off the heat and let it cool for a bit- season with salt and lots of fresh ground pepper.

So yummy, especially with rolls to soak up the broth. Some people cook their corn with the potatoes, but we are fans of the really fresh flavor of the barely-cooked stuff.