Mainely Martha

With a winter storm looming, my mind began to swirl today with recipes to get us through the day of being house-bound. Big storms are like a holiday when special dishes, like baked blueberry french toast, are made. It also is a great day to try new recipes which unfortunately then results in a grocery list. So while the masses are flocking to the market for staple items like milk and bread, I fight the crowds to get spices, herbs, a special liquor for a new cocktail concoction, etc… It always seems like a good idea while I ponder the recipes that will add to the warmth and comfort of being in by the fire as the snow falls; but then I drive around the parking lot and wonder why the store is so busy! Breathe…it is just the storm before the storm.

But while the storm rages outside, the food that is made will hopefully calm the storm inside…that storm of having three boys home from school. The french toast obviously covers breakfast and maybe even lunch, but there are snacks needed, something baking in the oven to fill the house with an aroma to intoxicate them and subsequently put them in a sugar coma, perhaps a chili or stew in the slow-cooker and finally let’s not forget the hot chocolate for the post-sledding or night hike in the woods. And for the adults coming in from snow clean-up, a special treat is hot chocolate with a shot of butterscotch schnapps to be enjoyed by the fire…if the dog will share.

So, if you too are house-bound by the storm or just have a need to try something different, be sure to check out some of the recently added recipes, including new cocktails, and give them a try. Also, check in tomorrow night to see some new ones from our day inside.

Let it snow and we will take full advantage of our forced day home.