Tabby Tummy Tuesday!

 

 

And now, in honor of Tabby Tummy Tuesday, here's a rare glimpse of Tinsel's beautiful tummy. But don't get the crazy idea to rub her belly. Tinsel only allows looking!

 Aside from being very beautiful, Tinsel's little hang-down pouch swings from side to side when she runs. I only wish my figure flaws were this endearing!
 

Feline Friday: She's BACK!

 We've all been having a great time with Bailey here for spring break. Of course, Lily has been enjoying as many free rides as she can get!

 In just a couple of short days, Bailey will be going back to school and Lily will have to ride around on my back, which somehow isn't quite as fun...for either of us! :)

Signs of Spring 2012

In yesterday's post, Tinsel was looking out the window for signs of spring. Judging from these photos from around our yard this week, I think spring is officially here -- much, much earlier than usual!

If you click on the collage, you'll see a few glimpses of the change in seasons:

* Sedum, sedum, and more sedum popping up in my flower beds

* Newly emerged daylilies -- the tops already chomped by hungry bunnies

* Phlox and hyacinth tips 

* Freshly scrubbed patio pots

* Got plant markers?

* Garden hose on the ready

* My 1,000 pound mushroom-themed bird bath (found last year on the curb) ready to be cleaned and filled

Seeing these signs of springs makes me look forward to a new season of gardening adventures!

{Almost} Wordless Wednesday

 Tinsel is checking for signs of spring!

Yep, it's here!

Feline Friday: On the Lookout!

 We're all very, very excited that Bailey is coming home for spring break today! Even Tinsel has emerged from her blankets to "cat" the lookout post.

 Nope, I doo not see her yet, Mom!

 She's not in the bafroom, either! (Okay, Tinsel, we knew that, but thanks!)

Hai, frum wai up here, I can see all the wai to Indiana! 
I'll keep watchin, Mom!

This could be a very long day. :)

Tabby Thursday

 

Here's Tinsel in her typical nap time position, snuggled into something soft and warm. After I took this photo, she tunneled completely under cover and there she remained for several hours. Warm and toasty kitty. :)

Recipe: Leek & Potato Soup

 This soup may not be much to look at, but it is REALLY good. And because it's made with chicken broth, this recipe is much lighter than most cream-based potato soups. If you're not a fan of leeks, don't worry. After they're pureed, they blend right into the soup base and provide only the slightest hint of onion flavor. Add a salad and some crusty bread and you've got a light but filling dinner for a chilly night.



Leek and Potato Soup

From EatingWell.com

Ingredients

1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil
3 leeks, trimmed, cleaned and thinly sliced (3 cups)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, or 1/2 teaspoon dried
6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 1/4 pounds all-purpose potatoes, (about 3 medium), peeled and cut into small chunks
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preparation

1. Heat oil in a large heavy saucepan or stockpot over low heat. Add leeks and cook, stirring, until softened, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and thyme; cook for 2 minutes more. Pour in broth, increase heat to medium and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
2. Pour the soup through a strainer set over a large bowl. Puree the leeks in a food processor or blender until smooth, adding some the broth if necessary. Return the puree and broth to the saucepan. Add potatoes and simmer, covered, until the potatoes are soft, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and mash the potatoes thoroughly with a potato masher.
3. Stir in sour cream, salt and pepper. Return to low heat and heat until hot, but not boiling. Serve hot or chilled.

LEAP Around the World Blog Hop Winner

Thank you all so much for participating in the Let's Scrap Blog Hop! This was my first time hosting a blog hop and it was great fun. I loved visiting all the blogs, reading all the comments, and learning a bit about all the hoppers and hosts! Even though we may be oceans apart, our love of crafting makes us close in spirit!