Happiness

Arroz Con Leche (Rice Pudding) Vegetarian, but not Vegan, dessert

1 and 1/2 cups water

1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice

1 cinnamon stick

1 can sweetened condensed milk

3 TBSP raisins

Combine water, rice, and cinnamon stick and boil. Lower to a simmer and add milk and raisins. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously, then simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Discard the cinnamon and indulge.

Research has showed that people are happiest when they are focused on a task at hand, such as exercise, intimacy, talking with a friend, eating, or praying. People are least happy when their minds are wandering; computer time, TV time, personal free time, etc.

Happy is the man who finds wisdom and understanding for the

gain from it is better than gain from silver and profit better than gold.

-Proverbs 3:13,14

"When people are free to do as they please, they usually imitate each other."

-Eric Hoffer

Being Wise

Stewed Collard Greens and White Beans

12 oz. dry cannellini beans

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves cut in 3-inch strips

1- 3 inch piece of parmesan rind

7 cups water

Course salt

2 TBSP red wine vinegar

Cover the beans with 3 inches of water in a medium pot. Boil. Remove from heat and cover for one hour, drain. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Saute onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes until tender. Add collard greens in batches, stirring until wilted. Add beans, parmesan rind, and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until the beans and greens are tender, about one hour and 20 minutes. Season with salt and vinegar.

When I make dishes like this for my family, I love to imagine the healthy ingredients pulsing through their bodies, nourishing and strengthening them. Don't worry, I also have to urge my children to put this strange, new food into their mouth, chew, and swallow. But this particular dish ended up being a hit, even with the six year old. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to use fresh food that is so easily accessible.

"The act of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook."

-William James

Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul: if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

-Proverbs 24:14

Renew your routine this spring

Asparagus with Creamy Orange Sauce

Whisk: 1/2 cup soy mayo (or regular mayo)

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

2 tsp grated orange zest

2 tsp dijon mustard

2 pounds of asparagus, trimmed

After washing thoroughly, cook the asparagus on a square of tin foil, with the foil folded over the tips in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. The grill is an additional way to cook asparagus just right! Pour the sauce over the asparagus and enjoy. Sometimes I serve this with plain pasta and mix the sauce in with everything.

Make it a goal to visit a new place each week. It can be anywhere to fit your budget: a specialty foods store, a new restaurant, a museum, a sporting event, or a new walking trail. Try to include at least 20-30 minutes of aerobic activity. Refreshing your routine can add some spark to your spring!

For behold, the winter is past,

The rain is over and gone

The flowers have already appeared in the land;

time has arrived for pruning the vines,

And the voice of the turtledove has been heard in our land.

The fig tree has ripened its figs,

And the vines in blossom have given forth their fragrance.

Arise, my darling, my beautiful one,

And come along!

Song of Solomon 2:11-13