pretty neat. love the big jade tree. but for me you are covering up the best part - that big fat trunk

that is very cute. sounds like how we deal with all the strays we found. our latest is named Shelby and she is slowly graduating from downstairs to upstairs. (and this is the cat that my husband said he'd never allow in the house. ha!)

I made ham and tenderloin for our family Christmas and tenderloin and Mongolian Beef for Elery's family. We sent all leftovers home with our children, so there were no sandwiches or pots of soup, unfortunately, although I did keep the ham bone and made a pot of split pea soup with it. I love scalloped potatoes with ham, but Elery does not. By the time the tenderloin is reheated it's too well done, as far as I'm concerned it's just really expensive pot roast at that point. I love turkey pot pie, turkey and gravy over biscuits, turkey and wild rice soup. Elery doesn't and it's not exactly health food, so it's not happening this year. My Mother is here with us and she's uber picky. She's eaten one banana so far today, she had a bowl of broccoli cheese soup last night. Elery doesn't eat any grains or dairy, mostly subsisting on boiled/microwave vegetables, a couple ounces of baked or roasted chicken or fish, large salads with no-calorie dressing and fresh fruit. I've given up even trying to cook. Annie

If I'm making pancakes, I try for only what I'll eat, since I can't deal with reheated ones. Otherwise, most comfort foods are in the category of cook (hence clean up) once, eat twice or more. I'm very open to utilizing things in other ways but don't get hung up on "it has to be 'different'" philosophy. And I choke back vomit when I see someone try to make a meatloaf and mashed potatoes look like a cake. UGH! I grew up eating leftovers. I still aim for "premeditated" leftovers. It more economical, just as tasty most of the time and often it can taste better. If it's too much, a freezer can be your friend. And I am a strong supporter of saving energy, both appliance and mine. Since the health issues set in, standing at the stove for hours is no longer a regular option.