Week 9 Thursday (3/6/14)

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Pork Chops with Apples and Grits

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Page 200 - 203      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 427 calories per serving of pork and apples, and 479 calories of grits if 6 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

         The pork chops weren’t special but just normal. This may be my fault because I have a wonderful spice for chops, but I didn’t use it because I am trying to be 100% faithful to Ree’s recipe.  Next time I will try the spice and see if that makes for better chops. The apples were warm on the tummy and the rich maple flavoring was an interesting texture and taste.

         As to the grits, they were spectacular. I loved the bacon and cheese because it made them so filling. Eating this dish took me right back to living in Panama City, Florida and the yummy grits at Harbor House Restaurant on the beach. To me, there is nothing better for breakfast, lunch, or dinner than cheese grits.  They are so filling and rich to eat. This is one southern food that is amazing and one I will never forget.

        

Today’s critics: 

         Brandy:  Pork chops with apples and syrup - good, gave the pork chops a flavor boost, didn't care for the grits, maybe mashed potatoes would be better.

Random Reflections

         On my drive a few weeks ago through the east side of St. Charles, I came upon another interesting house at the corner of 2^nd Avenue and Park. This beautiful home reminds me of a southern plantation home. I love the tall columns and the floor to ceiling windows.  There is so much detail work that this older home is breathtaking.  I love the wrought iron fence and lighting. This home shows great craftsmanship! Up close the detail on this house is outstanding!  Drive by and enjoy the view.

East side of St. Charles

Irksome Ideas and Images

         This is not really an irksome issue but one of discomfort.  One of the things I do not like to see is a cross at the side of the highway.  I understand that some people feel the need to honor their deceased family members but it really bothers me to see them.

         I guess that I am just not a big fan of gravesites at all.  I would prefer to be cremated and sprinkled in my garden than be buried underground. I want people to remember how I was in the world rather than think I am under the soil in a particular place.

         This is a hard issue but one I must learn to deal with by myself. I must honor the needs of the grieving rather than think about myself and how I feel.  Oh well – I’ll just continue to look away as I pass the roadside crosses.

A sad moment on Butterfield Road
It is a little blurry - yikes!