Anticipation
I originally started to write this before I had my eye surgeries. I was in the midst of anxiety over the whole thing. As is so often the case, the actual experience wasn’t nearly as bad as I thought it would be. When it comes to medical things, people often say, “but you’re a nurse.” Being a nurse often makes it worse. I can tell you every complication there ever has been. I can probably even anticipate a few complications that have never happened.
I’ve spent most of my life preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. Most of the time, the experience isn’t nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Isn’t that just like the human race to think up things to be anxious about?
Even with the surgeries going on, the month of not doing much was a good choice. I did not do the staycation like we did last year but I did cut way back on activity. The real vacation will come later in the year. I do, however, recommend that everyone take a step back, every once in a while, and evaluate where you have been and where you are planning on going.
For just over a year now, I’ve been reading books by Jan Karon (interspersed with other reading). I have read all 9 of her Mitford books and the first Father Tim book (Home to Holly Springs). At the moment I’m reading a book of her essays. Every time I think I’ve found them all, I find more that I didn’t know about. I’m loving being able to see better. This has been so enjoyable! And no, I am not bored. I’m pretty sure that if you haven’t already read them, you will enjoy them too.
As you all know, I love making my own seasoning mixes. This month I found these rub mixes that looked like something I would like to have on hand. As is my custom I make everything ahead and store them in plastic bags or small jars for future use. If I wait until I actually need it, I won’t go to the trouble to put together the mix.
Smokey All Purpose: 6 Tbsp chilli powder, 2 Tbsp ground cumin, 1 Tbsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp paprika. Mix together and store tightly sealed.
Herby: 6 Tbsp dried oregano, 2 Tbsp dry mustard, 2 Tbsp ground coriander, 1 Tbsp sumac, 1 Tbsp dried thyme, 1 Tbsp dried sage, 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix together and store tightly sealed.
Chesapeake Style: 16 bay leaves, finely crushed (2tsp), 1 Tbsp kosher salt, 2 Tbsp celery seed, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground mustard, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg. Mix together and store tightly sealed.
Have a good time experimenting with these while you are grilling this summer!
It is nice to be back and I am looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you for the gift of your time.
Until next time,
Helen
My Quiet Place 