The Sour Cream 'n' Chives Potatoes came about by accident. I had no milk in the fridge, so I used sour cream instead, along with butter, salt and pepper.
I didn't tell anyone that I had made the switch—and they all loved the potatoes! The next time I mashed potatoes, I added chives in with the sour cream, knowing how good they are together on baked potatoes. Sometimes I also add shredded cheddar cheese if I have it on hand.
I've received a few recipe chain letters over the years, and the carrot cake recipe was in one of them. I believe it's from a friend of my sister-in-law's who lives in Texas. It's a delicious dessert.
At Easter, I use a bunny-shaped pan to make it. After all, a carrot cake in a bunny pan seems perfect! I think people enjoy having a piece of the not-too-sweet cake as an alternative to Easter chocolates and marshmallow Peeps.
Day to day, I keep busy maintaining the household. Andy works swing shifts, often without days off for long periods of time. The kids' music lessons and Scouts, Bridget's horseback riding lessons and Brian's roller hockey keep me hopping.
Daytime Dates
Due to his schedule, Andy is often home during the daytime, when the kids are at school. We take advantage of that time and go out on "dates." We hike and fish, look for treasures in antique and thrift stores and go out to lunch.
I often come home and try to duplicate the entrees we've had at a good restaurant. I like to experiment in the kitchen, read cookbooks, dabble in cake decorating and collect 1950s pottery. This year I joined a women's bowling league—it's fun!
When Andy's on second shift, I get the kids off to school and then begin preparing dinner so he can take a decent meal with him to microwave later at work. I enjoy using my gas grill and can often be seen out grilling, even in the middle of winter.
As crazy as our schedule is, we still find time to enjoy family meals and to invite others to share a special spring dinner with us. Perhaps our well-loved menu will inspire you to do the same!