


Vanilla Rose Valentine Cake
Since Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, I thought I’d share a story of love with you. It is a short story about love and birth, family and new life, and a couple of pounds of confectioner’s sugar. My little sister is nearing the end of her second pregnancy and will soon be bringing a tiny girl child into the world. Beyond ecstatic at the impending arrival and having the tendency to share love for my family through the food that I cook, I decided to bake a “Welcome to the World” cake for my sister and future-niece.

Spicy Black Beans and Rice
One thing I have learned living on an extreme budget is that beans are your friend. They are a cheap source of high protein, they come in many shapes and sizes, they go with pretty much anything else you put in them and hey… they aren’t meat! Also, they are awesome if you are a lazy cook. Soak the beans overnight, toss all of your ingredients in a pot and let it simmer all day. You are free of the kitchen until its time to dish it up, perfect food for a busy household.

Homemade Chorizo
CHORIZO RECIPE So, my husband grew up in Arizona. Southern Arizona; literally five minutes away from the border of Mexico. Mexican food was a staple where he lived. Here on the East Coast it’s a luxury that we rarely get. Mexican restaurants are few and rarely...