A Favorite Thing

Right before Christmas, the kids and I took a trip to Disneyland to see the Christmas decorations and to see the fireworks.

We have annual passes this year, and with the hubby's airline connection, we can fly for free whenever there is space available...so we popped down for the day to feel the Disney Christmas Spirit. We didn't ride too many rides, and when we did manage to make it into the Haunted Mansion, we found upon exiting that we had completely missed the fireworks we were there to see. (although we caught the snowstorm just at the end). Never mind the massive crowds. Never mind the long lines. The important thing was that we could get a reservation time at the Cafe Orleans.

This is the location of our favorite Disneyland treat. These are the Pommes Frites with Cajun Remoulade Sauce. The kids love them. I love them. We ask for extra sauce.

Yummy garlicky, parmesan cheesy covered fries... Spicy, tangy sauce... Oh, I'm like Pavlov's dog just thinking about them :) I was craving them the other day, and looked online to see if I could find a reasonable facsimile of the recipe. I was in luck!! Here it is. We whipped some up the other night, and I was amazed at how it really hit the spot. I did add a little more chili powder than the recipe called for however. Just add it to taste, as hot as you like. We deep fried "Fast Food" Ore-Ida fries, and they were perfect.

(Nobody touch them until I can take a picture!)

Just what was needed to satisfy a craving! Put on some Disney tunes and give them a try.

Bet you'll love 'em too!

A Brand New Year

Happy New Year!!

I love the beginning of a new year. I always think of the words of Anne of Green Gables' school teacher, Miss Stacy, when she tells her that "tomorrow is fresh, with no mistakes in it." I like the idea of having a whole new year fresh ahead of me with no mistakes in it. The possibilities seem endless. New ideas are flowing, and goals are being set.

The weather this winter has been so warm, that it was pleasant to be outside on New Years Eve. I stepped outside to make the required noise with poppers and blowers in my bare feet, and didn't feel like I was going to stick to the porch. (as in tongue to a flag pole) The days have been warm and sunny. I feel as though I should be out digging flower beds. While it's made for great driving conditions, the weather has confused some of my plants.

The Japanese maple against the front foundation is sending out new leaves.

The chrysanthemums in the front pots are sending up new shoots under their crispy tops.

I realize that before we know it, the sun will recede and the snow will move in; but until that happens, I am enjoying the warm afternoons and the clear mornings. Hopefully the current state of confusion my garden is in will not have any ill effects come spring. It has been nice to have a little taste of what will well and truly be coming in a mere 3 or 4 months.

Until then, enjoy these scenes from a beautiful pink January sunset.

Here's to a Terrific 2012!!