Peanut Butter and Possibilites

Today is Peanut Butter Lovers Day. Also the first day of March.

(Does that mean spring is right around the corner? It was 40 degrees in Wisconsin today. March definitely came in like a lamb so we can certainly dream about blue skies, fresh air and warmer temperatures. However, before we realize those dreams, I'm sure we will have to endure high winds, torrential rains and yes, even more snow! Ahhhhh the possibilities!

Is there anyone that doesn't love peanut butter? Spread some on a warm bagel and watch it melt slightly...or cover a slice of fresh white bread with peanut butter (and grape jelly or strawberry jam). YUM! Did you know that peanut butter:

• helps protect against cardiovascular disease due to high levels of monounsaturated fats and resveratrol.


• provides protein, vitamins B3 and E, magnesium folate, dietary fiber and high levels of the antioxidant p-coumaric acid.


• is an effective bait for mouse trap.s


• works as a simple outdoor birdfeeder. Just coat a pine cone with peanut butter; then birdseed.


• use it to remove gum and tree sap from skin, hair or in fabrics and uphostery.

And of course there always tons of recipes using peanut butter. Here is one that has been in my family for years. Mom used to make these and although all my siblings have the recipe, my sister Marcy's are THE BEST!

Peanut Butter Fingers
½ c. butter
½ c. white sugar
½ c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 unbeaten egg
1/3 c. peanut butter
½ tsp. baking soda
¼ tsp. salt
½ tsp. vanilla
1 c. flour
1 c. oatmeal (rolled oats)
1 c. chocolate chips
Glaze:
¼ c. peanut butter
½ c. sifted powdered sugar
2-4 Tbsp. milkGrease a 9x13” pan. Cream butter. Add sugars and blend with butter. Blend in egg, peanut butter, baking soda, salt & vanilla. Stir in flour and oatmeal. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes. Sprinkle chocolate chips over top. Let sit for 5 minutes. Spread chocolate evenly over top of bars. Mix glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over top of chocolate.