4.22.2021

Happy Earth Day and I got my first Covid vaccination – go me! Choosing a CVS location in a Target = #winning!!

I thought I’d try something a little different for dinner. I thawed some thick-cut pork loin chops, cut them in half, pounded them to amount a ¾ inch thickness, smeared some Member’s Mark Jalapeno and Artichoke dip, and then rolled them up to sear them off and then finish in the oven. Didn’t work out as I had planned. Any who, served them with a side of cheesy rice and left over Brussels sprouts for Todd and leftover green beans for me. I need to work on my paillard skills to get the pork thinner and I need to either use twine to tie them up or use toothpicks to hold them closed. Lesson learned…. Here’s what I’d do, if I do it again. Pound the dickens out of the pork, season both sides with salt & pepper – maybe even add some smoked paprika or chili powder or both, then smear, roll and tie. Sear off and then toss in the oven to cook through.

Lately after school, we’ve been going to the playground across the street – it’s good for getting some extra energy out before we go home. This evening while we were there we got a notification that the doorbell rang – when Todd checked, he saw the neighbors walking away. I didn’t think about it until we’d been home for a bit – I peered out the front door and saw a plate on the mat. Our neighbors left us a plate of yummy treats in celebration of Ramadan. In a time when so many people continue to see the bad and have so many trust issues with people that don’t look like they do, it was really nice to see this on our front porch. All is not lost in the kindness of others, people can and will make a difference, good will always outweigh the bad, we just have to be the change! #bethechange