Monday, January 10, 2011

Chilly? Chili?

It is C O L D!
This morning the outside temperature was 16.
Tonight it is 5.9.
brrrrrr...

We only had about two inches of snow,
but most of it has blown off the trees.
Yeah, wind, too.

Firebuilding was the business of the day.
The perfect weather for a fire
is cloudy and snowy.
Today was perfect.
Mickey had two bon fires
from tree trimming debris.
This chiminea fire was just for fun and warmth.

 At sunset, we headed for the hot tub.
It really doesn't look that cold, does it?
But, it was.

Our refrigerator is well stocked with food
to take back to Amarillo.
Chili, Roast and Stew.
mmmm...

By the way,
it takes much longer to cook beans
in the mountains-
"twenty four hours"
Mickey does not give up.
Beans are necessary for Chili.
I think that the beans were a little old,
but with perservance they are
done and they enhance the chili.

I am crawling under the electric blanket!
Good night!

Sunday, January 9, 2011

The Prettiest Sunrises are in the West!

Knowing it would be a pretty day,

we enjoyed it.

the quiet...
the peace...
the solitude...

And the hike.

Then, the fire.

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Pleasant Weather, Peaceful Fire, Perfect Stew

Arriving yesterday (Friday),
we found little snow
and pleasant weather,
so we took a short hike.
As the temps drop,
the fire was peaceful.

Today brought a desire for stew.
We start with stew meat.
and two kinds of fire roasted tomaoes.
Searing the meat helps preserve
the tenderness and the flavor.
The supporting cast.
The secret ingredient.
Make note of the word Sweet!
Simmer for a while.
Ladle up some perfection.

Since our arrival,
I spent the morning
preparing for Bible Study.
Mickey filled propane tanks,
swept the flagstone,
checked and serviced the hot tub chemicals,
picked up over turned outdoor furniture
from some obviously high winds.
We have watched three movies and RESTED!

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

I'm Late!

I'm late... I'm late... I'm late..
For a very important date!!!

The winner of the CM Bag is Tandra Peters!
Tandra check your email for instructions!