Risotto with Duck Confit and Beluga Lentils

I'm back….. Almost. Still rather jet-lagged. Still wrapping my mind around stuff and getting used to the new reality. And absolutely enjoying the brilliant sunshine and warm air that greeted me.   Spring arrived while I was away. Hyacinths are blooming, tulips are up, fruit trees are blossoming, puppies are digging…. All signs of spring. … Continue reading…

Moroccan Lentils and Butternut Squash; snowed in

I’ve been ‘snowed in’ when I lived in Wisconsin – 24 inches (60cm) of fine, blowing snow followed by temperatures far below zero. I’ve been ‘snowed in’ when I lived in Minnesota – 2 days of wind and snow, piling the drifts over the cars and half way up the windows on the house. These … Continue reading…

Risotto with Lentils and Spinach

First, a disclaimer:  I was tending the stove; keeping the home fires burning and all that rot.  It's been warm enough that we only light it in the evenings. As usual, I lit the fire starter (little cubes of fuel), arranged a few logs and left it. I'd forgotten that I'd cleaned it out this … Continue reading…

Lentil and Meatball Stew; Season’s Eatings; Weekly Menu

I have a confession. But first… To everyone participating in this year's Season's Eatings:  You should all have received the email with the name and address of the person that you will send a gift to.  If you haven't, please let me know ASAP! Back to my confession. I hate to clean.  I avoid cleaning … Continue reading…

Lentil Soup with Chorizo; we’re insulated!

Finally, at long last….. We have insulation. Wanna see? Isn’t it pretty? He had to build a frame around the skylight first….. Always something….. We can tell the difference already, with only a third of the roof done. He’s not going to get it all done before winter, but he’ll be able to block off … Continue reading…

Quinoa, Basmati and Red Lentil Pilaf; the Update

Well….. It’s almost done. One of the drawers needs adjusting…. And the towel bar will actually go on the wall rather than laying across the sink. (I didn’t notice it until I uploaded the photo.) There are no shelves inside, yet…. But, all in all, we are most pleased. I can’t wait to start filling … Continue reading…

Quinoa Pilaf and Lentil Salad; House Hunting Hints

Differences to note between the U.S. and France if/when you decide to buy here (or most European countries): US:  Old is 50 years; new is 5 years or less. France: Old is 300 years; new is 50 years or less. US:  Central heating means (normally) forced air through ducts, which allows you to also have … Continue reading…