Cooking and Cracker Jack

Today's interview was with John Donahue, writer for The New Yorker editor of "A MAN WITH A PAN: CULINARY ADVENTURES OF FATHERS WHO COOK FOR THEIR FAMILIES". John does most of the cooking for his wife and two daughters. He's always had a passion for food (because he loves to eat!) and his interest grew right after his daughter was born. It seemed he was spending more time in the kitchen and now he does the cooking, the prep, the menu and grocery planning and really enjoys all of aspects of cooking for his family. His book features 34 men; their favorite recipes as well as their stories, adventures and advice.

The book is not just about food; but about our changing families and lifestyles. It is also delicious entertainment for the "kitchen stool cook" as well as being an invaluable resource for new and seasoned home chefs.

Did you know that it was on this day in 1983 when "Cracker Jack" was first introduced at the Chicago World's Fair? Frederick Rucekheim and his brother Louis sold it as "Candied Popcorn and Peanuts". After they figured out a way to keep it from sticking together (a carefully guarded secret), they renamed their product after one sampler exclaimed, "That's crackerjack!", -which at the time was a colloquialism meaning "of excellent quality".

They got free publicity after the song "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" was released in 1908 and beginning in 1912, a prize was included in every box.

Do you remember the prizes? Animals, toys, puzzles... The ones I always hoped to find were the circus wagons with a different animal in each one. I would line them up in my bedroom. Wonder whatever happened to my collection? Wonder if it would be worth anything today? I did look on line and found out that some Cracker Jack prizes are valued at more than $7000 today! Don't look for any prizes in Cracker Jack today-now you just get a paper prize with either a riddle or joke.

Some people think "Cracker Jack" was the very first junk food. What do you think? And what was your favorite Cracker Jack prize?

Pyramids and Playing Games

How would you rate your vocabulary? Good? Great? Stupendous?
I thought mine was pretty good. I usually do well on the Reader's Digest words/vocab page but I found out differently after reading "THE WORD PYRAMID".

Marissa Hirsch, a 2011 graduate of Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Liconshire, Illinois got the idea for this book when she was in middle school, worked on the book for about a year and published it when she was 16. Marissa believes that just like the old adage "you are what you eat" it is also true that "you are what you speak".

If your communications skills and vocabulary are exemplary, you'll go farther in life. Her book is a handy little guide destined to help enrich your vocabulary and utilize the expressive power of the English language. She's grouped the pyramids into three categories: Body, Mind and World and has rated each one. Level "F" is the most common, least effect form and Level "A" is the highest level. For example: the pyramid she showcases is Clothing. The most common word is clothing (grade F), dress (grade E), fashion (grade D), outerwear (grade C), tabby (grade B) and toggery, habiliments and tatterdemalion (all grade A).

It's a fun little book, and also one that you can use to impress and influence others and to "provoke a battalogical epiphany, inducing a metamorphosis in your personal liguistic zetigiest"

We had great fun on the program today because it was "Recess at Work" day and the question I posed to my listeners was this: "What is your favorite childhood game". Either played at recess or during the long summer break.

Do you remember "Annie, Annie Over"? We used to play that with a softball, or sometimes our kickball. You called out the phrase, sent the ball over the roof of the garage and if it wasn't caught, one person from that side was "out".
Or how about "Red Rover", "Red Light/Green Light", "Kick the Can", "Captain May I?", "Miss and Switch", "Pom Pom Pullaway" and "Chalk the Rabbit"? We also got responses like "Hopscotch", "Kickball", "Four Square", "Tetherball" and "Crack the Whip".
One of our family favorites in summertime was "What Color is my Bird?" On a hot summer afternoon we'd assemble on the steps of our front porch. One person held the glass of water and spoon and thought of a color. He/She would go down the line, asking each of us if we knew the color of the bird they were thinking of. The person who guessed correctly would get one spoonful of water splashed on them (to help cool off during those hot sumer days). It was lots of fun, although sometimes we would get carried away and throw the full cup of water at someone. NOT a good idea-even if it was really warm!
We would also have marathon kickball games in the backyard. We'd gather all the neighbors, lay out the bases and boundaries in our backyard and play all day. We'd break for lunch and then come back at it again! Good Times that's for sure!
Do you have fond memories of games you used to play?

Money and Mishaps

Today I spoke with Karen McCall, author of 'FINANCIAL DISCOVERY-DEVELOPING A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH MONEY". Karen is the founder of The Financial Recovery Institute and has been working with many different individuals for over twenty years. She doesn't guarantee that the book will make you a millionaire-well it might, but she makes no promises! Many American have gotten used t living way above their means, maxing out credit cards and living the high life. Whether you are a young person just starting your career path, or someone who is already living on a tight budget, or even someone unaffected by the current economic crisis, we can all benefit from Karen's difficult life lessons and fninacial triumphs. Her book showcases stories of hope from all walks of life.
Karen says we need to look at our beliefs, our emotional connection with money and finances and the biggest mistake we make is when we are in a "state of denial"-a "money coma". This is a great book if you just need a little push in the right direction for controlling your finances or if you need help in a BIG way. You can check out more information at her website: http://www.financialrecovery.com/

Today was "Kitchen Klutz's of America" day. We talked about various kitchen mishaps and I posed the question both on air and on "Facebook"- What is your most recent (or most memorable) kitchen mishap? I got a lot of great response from my listeners
-sirloin tips made with brown sugar
-eclair dessert made with farm fresh whole milk-tasted like soap suds
-caramel apple salad made with Cool Whip-Lite (to save calories) and it turned to "soup"
-made lasagna and forgot to add the noodles
-made a cherry pie when first married. seemed to take all day to prepare. when ready to put in oven, noticed that there was flour on bottom of pie plate. tried to wipe it off by raising it up over head and of course lost control and it fell to the floor!
-using salt instead of sugar when making sugar cookies
-using soap flakes instead of instant mashed potato flakes

I've had a number of mishaps...
A few of the most memorable:
-making chili for the very first time. I put everything in the crock pot (uncooked macaroni included!) When I went to check it a few hours later, the pasta had absorbed all the liquid and it was one big bowl of "mush"!

-making a broccoli slaw salad that I had gotten from my sister. I bought all the ingredients at the store, assembled it and took it to a family get together. My brother took one bite and hit a sunflower seed. I had used the kind that were in the shell-(didn't even know you could get the other kind!) and I hadn't bothered to remove the shells! We still laugh about this one.

What is your favorite kitchen mishap? Let me know....

Book Nook Line up for this week:

Monday, May 23rd at 10:05am
Diane Kredensor, "OLLIE AND MOON", children's picture book author

Tuesday, May 24th, at 10:05am
Harold Holzer, "LINCOLN ON WAR: OUR GREATEST COMMANDER IN CHIEF SPEAKS TO AMERICA", a collection of Abraham Lincoln's speeches, letters and writings from the famous to the obscure and what we can learn from them

Wednesday, May 25th, at 10:05am
James B. Stewart, 'TANGLED WEB: HOW FALSE STATEMENTS ARE UNDERMINING AMERICA, FROM MARTHA STEWART TO BERNIE MADOFF", explores the lying addiction of the rich and famous.

Thursday, May 26th, at 10:05am
Fred Alan Wolf, "TIME LOOPS AND SPACE TWISTS: HOW GOD CREATED THE UNIVERSE". The author explores how consciousness and science are related.

Advocates and Asparagus

Thirteen years ago, Brian Monaghan was given a death sentence-his doctor had found two brain tumors and he was given 3-6 months to live. While he was battling cancer, his wife Gerri was fighting on his behalf; acting as his advocate and ensuring that he received the best possible care. Together they beat the odds. Brian and Gerri share their experience and offer a road map for navigating the medical system in "WHEN A LOVED ONE FALLS ILL: HOW TO BE AN EFFECTIVE PATIENT ADVOCATE" and I talked with them on Tuesday.


Their story is an incredible and powerful one and took me back twenty-five years ago when my daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. She was not quite three years old and I became her advocate and ally. Many of the "50 Tips" that Brian and Gerri share were things that I did as well.

• Trusting your own intuition. (I knew something wasn't right when I saw all the bruising on her legs)


• Carrying a notebook, asking questions and writing things down. (There were many different chemos, plus I had to learn to draw blood from her catheter for testing at our local path lab so I needed to know what the results meant).


• Make memories and share stories (We took a trip to Disney World during the middle of her treatment. Grandpa, Grandma, aunts, uncles and siblings and had a once in a lifetime experience!)


• Always think in terms of "we". (I didn't receive the chomo, the "pokes", the radiation-but I felt that we were fighting this battle together!).


• Celebrate the milestones. (We did that this past January when my daughter hosted a twenty-five anniversary celebration for doctors, nurses, friends and family who supported during the tumultuous time.

This book is an incredible tale of survival, love and committment and is a "must read" for everyone facing tough medical challenges.

It seems like spring as been a long time coming. One of the best "flavors" of spring is fresh asparagus. We've been sharing recipes for asparagus soup, quiche and more... When freezing asparagus remember these tips:

• Select young tender spears with tightly closed tips


• Wash thoroughly and sort by size


• Trim stalks be removing the scales with a sharp knife


• Cut into even lenghts to fit into freezer containers.


• Blanch small spears for 1 1/2 minutes; medium spears for 2 minutes; and large spears for 3 minutes. Cool and drain well.


• Pack spears into freezer containers and freeze. Or for smaller amounts, freeze on cookie sheets prior to placing in containers
  
  

Rhubarb and Rodgers

On Monday my "Book Nook" guest was Rob Reischel, sports writer for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. We talked about his newest book, "AARON RODGERS: LEADER OF THE PACK". Rob was planning on writing a book about the 2010 Packer Season and he'll be the first to admit that he didn't think they had a chance of getting to the Superbowl. After clinching the NFC title in Chicago, Rob's publisher told him they wanted the book to be about Aaron and that he had until one week after the SuperBowl to complete it. Talk about a deadline!

The book covers Aaron's early career is filled with stats and covers some little known information as well. For instance-when Aaron went to Butte Community College he asked to wear #12 (which was his high school number), but it was take. He then asked for #8 (the number of his boyhood hero-Steve Young), but it was also taken. He then asked for #4 because he loved how Brett Favre played. Little did he know that a few years later, he would be back-up the Favre. There are TONS of photos and it makes a great gift for any Packer fan, Aaron Rodgers follower or CHEESEHEAD.

I really hope the lock-out issue will be resolved before the beginning of the 2011 season. We want to be able to tout "WORLD CHAMPION GREEN BAY PACKERS" each and every week. GO PACK!


It's that time of year when the rhubarb is ripe and ready for picking! We've been talking about rhubarb and sharing recipes the last few days. If you don't have a patch in your backyard or garden, you can pick some up at your local grocery store-or at the nearest Farmer's Market.
Here are a few tips:
*Buy thinner, brightly colored stalks that are firm but not dried out at the ends.
*Cut the leaves off before cooking.
*Slice horizontally (against the grain)
* Add sugar (to taste) as the acidity is quite bracking.
*Try cooking down with ginger and star anise for complex but easy condiment.


You might want to try these jams:
Pineapple Rhubarb Jam
5 c. sliced rhubarb 3 c. sugar 3 oz. pkg. Strawberry JELL-O 1 medium can crushed pineapple Place rhubarb in saucepan. Stir in sugar and bring to boil. Boil for 15-20 minutes. During last few minutes of cooking, stir in pineapple. Remove from heat. Add JELL-O and stir until dissolved. Place into hot jars and seal.

Blueberry Rhubarb Jam
7- 1/2 c. rhubarb, cut up 2- 1/2 c. sugar 1 (16-20 oz.) can blueberry pie filling 2 small pkg. raspberry JELL-O Combine rhubarb, sugar & pie filling in saucepan. cook mixture until rhubarb gets soft. Stir in JELL-O until well dissolved. Pour mixture into glass jars and store in refrigerator. (Also freezes well).

Rhubarb Compote
2 1/2 pounds rhubarb, cut into 1" pieces
1 lb. strawberries, quartered
1 c. sugar
1/4 c. apple juice
1 Tbsp. grated orange zest
1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
In large heavy-bottomed pot, combine rhubarb, strawberries, sugar, apple juice and orange zest. Bring to simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat and gently simmer, stirring occassionally, until rhubarb has broken down and mixture has thickened, 55-65 minutes. Stir in vanilla. Serve warm, at room temperature or chilled-on toast, pancakes, waffles or ice cream.

Book Nook Line up for this week:

Monday, May 16th at 10:05am:
Rob Reischel, "AARON RODGERS: LEADER OF THE PACK", a great read with plenty of photos beginning with Aaron's high school football career and forward. Rob only had about a week after the superbowl to get everything pulled together and although he had lots of articles he could go back to, he still had to get interviews get organized in a hurry! You'll find out how Aaron ended up with the #4 jersery while playing for Butte Community College in 2002 and how he hasn't just beaten the odds in the NFL-but he did it back in high school and junior college as well.

Monday, May 16th at 10:35am:

Gracie Cabnar, founder of the RECIPE FOR SUCCESS FOUNDATON, as a way to combat childhood obesity. Her program is now set to go national as the "SEED-TO-PLATE EDUCTION PROGRAM" and she was one of six "real life heroines, honored by Harlequin in their 7th annual "More Than Words" competition.

Tuesday, May 17th at 10:05am:

Brian and Jerri Monahan, "WHEN A LOVED ONE FALLS ILL", talk about how to be an advocate for your loved one.

Wednesday, May 18th, at 10:05am:

Diane Krendesor, "OLLIE AND MOON", children's author

Thursday, May 19th at 10:05am:

Wendy Williamson, "I'M NOT CRAZY, I'M BI-POLAR"

Friday, May 20th, at 10:05am:

Ray Graham, "POTTINGER'S PROPHESY", will talk about how what we eat now will have an effect on future generations.

This week's Book Nook:

Monday, May 9th at 10:05am ~ Trey Rodgers, otherwise known as THE YARD DOCTOR. He'll talk about great lawn tips and the new Briggs & Stratton lawn hotline.

Monday, May 9th at 10:35am ~ Darell Hammond, founder and CEO of KaBOOM!, a not for profit, based in Washington , D.C. dedicated to makin sure there is a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. He'll talk about his book, "KABOOM! HOW ONE MAN BUILT A MOVEMENT TO SAFE PLAY"

Tuesday, May 10th at 10:05am ~ Lauren Chattman, 'BREAD MAKING: A HOME COURSE. CRAFTING THE PERFECT LOAF"

Wednesday, May 11th, at 10:05am ~ Cindy Duerst and other Leadership Beaver Dam members will be in the studio to talk about their upcoming food drive with Central Wisconsin Community Action

Wednesday, May 11th at 10:30am ~ THE GARDEN DOCTOR-DICK ZONDAG from Jung's Garden Center will be here to answer all your gardening questions

Thursday, May 12th at 9:40am ~ Kristi Yamaguchi will be here to talk about the release of her first children's book, "DREAM BIG, LITTLE PIG". The book encourages everyone to follow their dream because you will succeed as long as you believe.

Friday, May 13th at 10:05am ~ Laura Duksta, "YOU ARE A GIFT TO THE WORLD"

Beatles, Business and Birth Order

If you grew up with (or are just a fan) of The Beatles, you'll want to get a copy of 'COME TOGETHER: THE BUSINESS WISDOM OF THE BEATLES". (written by George Cassidy and Richard Courtney). The book seamlessly integrates nuggets of business "do's and don'ts" with interesting stories about the greatest rock and roll musical group EVER!

I talked with Richard Courtney, a successful real estate developer and huge Beatles fan. (He's been a follower since the age of 8!). The book has 100 chapters-but don't let that scare you-each one is no more than a page to a page and a half. It's set chronologically and has tons of information about each of the four "young lads from Liverpool". If you're looking to start your own business, if you already have a business and are looking for tips on how to make it better, this is the book for you. Find out how THE most successful business franchise of all time can help YOU!

Today, May 2nd is "Siblings" Day. Are you the oldest? A middle child? The baby? Or an only child? Are you aware of how your birth order affects your love life? (I found this information on match.com )

If you're the oldest:

*You are a born leader (most US presidents were first borns)

*You take charge, like to plan and always remember birthdays, anniversaries and Valentine's Day

*You are also old-fashioned (in a good way)

Your challenge: you need to become more spontaneous. You hate suprises.

Best Match: the youngest child. It's a case of opposites attracting. You help the last born become more organized and the last born helps you lighten up.

If you're the middle child: *You have a reputation as an insecure mess (Think Jan Brady). But you are actually a stable and loyal partner *You are not spoiled *You work for every perk, including a happy relationship. *You alwasy try to put others at ease. Your challenge: You need to open up because you're sometimes "hard to read". You can be secretive and you're not the best communicator when you're upset so learn to speak up instead of holdidng your anger in and you'll have a more harmonious relationship Best Match: Youngest child. Middles aren't as threatened by last borns as they are by exacting first borns.

If you're the youngest: *You're all about fun! *You like to have a good time Your challenge: you are not too financially dependable. (It comes from being well taken care of all your life). You also use your charm and charisma to be a bit "manipulative". Best Match: Either oldest (they serve as a good counterbalance in a "parent-child" sort of way, or middle child (they value friendships so they totally understand why you love being the life of the party).

The only child: *You are a "rock solid" citizen and a "sweetie" *you are super reliable and like the "oldest" child but to the extreme *You are punctual and true to your word *Always willing to help a friend in need
Your challenge: You are a bit of a perfectionist. Also cautious and pragmatic (and you can be very slow to make the first move). Best Match: the youngest child because you balance each other out. The baby of the family adds spontenaity and romance while you make sure you two aren't dining by candlelight because the electric bill never got paid!

I thought this was a fun perspective on siblings, spouses and significant others!

Book Nook Line up for this week:

Monday, May 2nd at 10:05am:
Elizabeth Carlson, "SCREAM QUIETLY", a personal account of how the author and her family survived and escaped Nazi Poland during WWII. Elizabeth now resides in northern Wisconsin and she will be at the Randolph Evangelical Free Church on Saturday, May 7th at 7pm to do a presentation and book signing.
and
Monday, May 2nd at 10:35am
Jerol Anderson, "IS IT SAFE?", another local author (Cambridge, WI) whose mystery novel is about a young woman who goes into the Witness Protection Program after seeing a murder. Jerol will be at Watertown BookWorld this Saturday, May 7th from 10:30am-2pm.

Tuesday, May 3rd, 10:05 am
Richard Courtney and George Cassidy, "COME TOGETHER: BUSINESS WISDOM OF THE BEATLES". We'll be talking with George about the lessons today's entrepeneurs and business leaders can draw from the failures and triumphs of the most famous musical group.

and
Tuesday, May 3rd, 10:35am:
Aaron McCargo, Jr., author of "SIMPLY DONE, WELL DONE". Aaron is a chef on the Food Network and has a great new cookbook that he'll be talking about.

Wednesday, May 4th: 10:05am
Mary Lou Retton (of Olympic Gold fame!) will be on the program to talk about a cause near and dear to her heart ~ Special Olympics.

Thursday, May 5th, I'll be doing my show LIVE from Hoekstra's Market and Greenhouses in Randolph, so if you're in the vicinity, stop in to say "Hi!"

Friday, May 6th, 10:05am
Michael Griesbach, author of "UNREASONABLE INFERNECES" is the facinating story of the Steven Avery murder case and the events of the previous twenty years.


Lots of great interviews this week...

Butter and Babies

As a kid, do you remember holding a dandelion under chin?

We talked about it on the show last week. (It was Dandelion Day on Tuesday, April 5th). If there was a yellowish reflection, that meant you liked butter, right? I don't know the origin of that practice but I think I ALWAYS had the yellow color reflected under my chin! I loved butter and still do. On today's show I shared some interesting facts about butter.

Have you wondered which is better salted or unsalted?

• Unsalted is best because the amount of salt can vary from brand to brand.Salted butter contains more water, which can interfere with gluten development
• Salt masks butters naturally sweet, delicate flavors and can be overwhelming

Where should you store butter?

• Place in back of fridge where it’s coldest. Don't use the compartment in the door.
• Butter will keep for 2 1/2 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 4 months in the freezer.
• Place in ziplock bag (before freezing) so that it won’t pick up other odor

Why is it important to use the proper temperature in a recipe?

• Chilled butter-should be cold and unyeilding
• Cold butter melts during baking leaving behind small pockets of air that create flaky layers in recipes like pie dough and croissants.
• Room Temperature-should easily bend without breaking
• Softened butter is flexible enough to be whipped but firm enough to retain the incorporated air-vital to making cakes with a tender crumb.
• Melted and Cooled-should be fluid and slightly warm
• Butter is roughly 16% water; when melted, water breaks from the emulsion and helps create gluten for chewier cookies.

On Monday, I spoke with Lesley Bolton regarding her new book, "THE COMPLETE BOOK OF BABY NAMES: THE MOST NAMES, THE MOST UNIQUE NAMES, MOST IDEA GENERATING LISTS (600+), AND THE MOST HELP TO FIND THE PERFECT NAME."

It really is the most complete baby name book that I have ever seen! Lesley said that it's very important to select the right name. You need to think about your child and most people select a first name that has meaning-not necessarily what the name actually means, but why it has meaning to the Mom and Dad. You also need to consider how the first name sounds (on it's own) and also when paired with the last name. The trend right now is for more traditional, classical names and the Social Security office will release the top 10 for 2011 this May. So stay tuned....

This week's Book Nook:

Monday, April 11th:

"THE COMPLETE BOOK OF BABY NAMES: THE MOST UNIQUE NAMES, THE MOST IDEA GENERATING LISTS, 660+ NAMES AND THE MOST HELP TO FIND THE PERFECT NAME" ~ Lesley Bolton, author of the #1 baby name book in the country will give us an expert's view on the best baby names.

Tuesday, April 12th:

"WILLIWAW WINDS", ~ Sally Bair, a Wisconsin author from Washburn, Wisconsin. (Sally will be in Columbus on Saturday, April 16th at the Columbus Public Library for a presentation and book signing). Her book is fiction but based on the true story of her son's rescue in the Bering Straits.

Wednesday, April 13th:

"MOBY-DUCK" THE TRUE STORY OF 28,800 BATH TOYS LOST AT SEA AND OF THE BEACHCOMBERS, OCEANOGRAPHERS, ENVIRIONMENTALISTS AND FOOLS, INCLUDING THE AUTHOR, WHO WENT IN SEARCH OF THEM". ~ Donovon Hohn, who heard about the mysterious loss of thousands of bath toys at sea and wanted to tell their story.

and at 10:30 Dick Zondag, "The Garden Doctor" joins us for his 30 minute program and will be available to answer all your gardening questions.

Thursday, April 14th:

"ALREADY HOME", ~ Susan Mallery, a New York Times best selling author, her newest novel, tells the story of a woman dealing with family relationships, dating and finding a new direction in her life.

Friday, April 15th:

"6 SECRETS TO STARTUP SUCCESS: HOW TO TURN YOUR ENTREPENEURIAL PASSION INTO A THRIVING BUSINESS" ~John Bradberry talks to us about the things you need to do (and need to know) in order to run your own successful business.

Longevity and Lent

What do these two things have in common?

We interviewed Dr. Howard Friedman, a health psychologist, who co-authored the facinating book, "THE LONGEVITY PROJECT: SUPRISING DISCOVERIES FOR HEALTH AND LONG LIFE FROM THE LANDMARK EIGHT-DECADE STUDY". Along with Dr. Leslie Martin, they compiled a truly remarkable collection of insights into why some of us are blessed with long lives while others falter. The book looks at thousands of pieces of information, the files of over 1500 participants in a study that began back in the early 1930's and has spanned over eight decades.

Told in an easy to read, easy to understand format, there are many facets (personality traits, relationships, experiences and career paths) that give us a good understanding of how the doctors compiled their results. Dr. Friedman says they became known as the "Myth Busters" because so many of things we've been taught about how to live a long life, turned out not to be true. You'll find lots of great information, as well as quizzes YOU can take to get a sense of your own longevity trajection. Dr. Friedman says the best advice he can give is to throw out all your lists. Develop patterns according to your own personality that lead to healthy living and associate with others who lead healthy lifestyles. Quite a fascinating study...

You can become a "friend" on facebook or check out his website at http://www.howardsfriedman.com/

We also were looking for some good recipes for making tilapia- a mildly flavored fish. If you are looking for some good (and easy) Lenten recipes see below:

Garlic Alfredo Tilapia
4 tilapia fillets
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 Tbsp. Creole seasoning, or to taste
3 Tbsp. butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 c. Alfredo sauce
Preheat oven to 425°. Brush tilapia fillets with oil on both sides, season with Creole seasoning to taste, then place into 9x13” baking dish. Bake until flesh is no longer translucent, and fish flakes easily with fork, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in garlic, cook until it’s softened and aroma has mellowed, about 2 minutes. Stir in Alfredo sauce and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to LOW and keep warm until fish is ready. Pour sauce over fish to serve. Sprinkle with additional Creole seasoning if desired.

Hudson’s Baked Tilapia
4 (4 oz.) fillets tilapia
Salt & pepper to taste
1 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning, or to taste
1 lemon, thinly sliced
¼ c. mayonnaise
½ c. sour cream
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh dill
Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease a 9x13” baking dish. Season fillets with salt, pepper & Cajun seasoning on both sides. Arrange seasoned fillets in single layer in baking dish. Place layer of lemon slices over fish. (2 per piece, it should cover most of the surface of the fish). Bake, uncovered for 15-20 minutes,or until fish flakes easily with fork. While fish is baking, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice and dill in small bowl. Serve with tilapia.

Crab Salad
2 ½ c. cooked shell macaroni
¼ c. chopped onion
½ c. chopped celery
1 pkg. crabmeat, cut into chunks
1 c. mayonnaise or salad dressing
¼ c. sugar
1 Tbsp. vinegar
3 Tbsp. sour cream
In large bowl, combine macaroni, onion, celery & crabmeat. In separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, sour cream. Pour over macaroni mixture and stir until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Barbies and Books

Today is "Barbie's" birthday!

Barbie the Fashion doll that is. She made her debut on this date back in 1959 at a price of $3.00!



Did you have a Barbie when you were growing up? My sister Nancy had Midge (Barbie's best friend) and I had Barbie and we would spend hours, I mean HOURS, pretending that we were Barbie and Midge ~ out on all kinds of adventures. We saved our brithday and Christmas money to buy the outfits-I think they were priced at about $1.99-4.99 depending on how fancy the outfit and how many accessories were included.

Ruth Handler watched her daughter Barbara play with paper dolls and noticed that she enjoyed giving them adult roles. Ruth's husband was a co-founder of the Mattel Toy company and when she suggested the idea of an adult bodied doll, he was unenthusiastic. During a trip to Europe in 1956 with her children Barbara and Kenneth, Ruth found a german toy doll called Bild Lilli. She brought it back to the US, worked with an engineer, reworked the design of the doll, named her after her daughter and Barbie made her debut at the American International Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959. Over the years, Barbie's appearance had changed many times, most notably in 1971, when her eyes were adjusted to look forward rather than having the demure sideways glance of the original model.

• Here are a few "facts" about Barbie that you maybe didn't know
  Her full name: Barbara Millicent Roberts
• In a series of novels published in the 1960's she grew up in the fictional town of Willows, Wisconsin and attended Willows High School
• Her parents were George and Margaret Roberts and she had younger sister (Skipper).
• Barbie has had over 40 pets and a wide range of vehicles including her pink Corvette convertible, trailers, and jeeps. (She also holds a pilots license)
• She's had an on-off romantic relationship with her boyfriend "Ken" (Ken Carson) who first appeared in 1961. In 2004 Mattel announced that Barbie and Ken split up however, it was recently reported that they maybe they would be getting back together.

In the "Book Nook" segment today I spoke with Gretchen Rubin, author the #1 New York Times Best Seller- 'THE HAPPINESS PROJECT: OR, WHY I SPENT A YEAR TRYING TO SING IN THE MORNING, CLEAN MY CLOSETS, FIGHT RIGHT, READ ARISTOTLE, AND GENERALLY HAVE MORE FUN". It is now out in paperback and it is a GREAT read. Gretchen spent time exploring ways of "being happy" and broke her resolutions into 12 segments (one each month). When I asked her if she had found the "key" to happiness, she said that both the ancient philosophers and well as contemporary religious leaders agree that strong relationships with other people is really the secret. Check out her book and/or her blog at http://www.happiness-project.com/

Interruptions, Immune Systems and Interviews

On Monday, I spoke with Marsha Egan. Marsha is a certified business leader, coach and CEO of the professional coaching firm-The Egan Group. Marsha checks in with us on the program every few weeks and her topic this week was "Interrupting". Since I have a tendency to do this on occasion, I wanted to get some tips on how to avoid it in the future. Marsha said it's important to let people finish their thought. If you need to, silently count to three before you begin speaking. If you are constantly interrupting others, you may be percieved as being "rude". I don't mean to be rude. I sometime get so caught up in the conversation and eager to share my thoughts, that I don't wait but I'm going to use Marsha's trick of counting to three... For more tips check out Marsha's website www.inboxdetox.com

Today I spoke with Dr. Susan Rupp of Columbus Chiropractic. During the cold and flu season our immune system can become compromised. Chiropractic care helps the spine and nervous system but can also alleviate problems with the immune system. You can also stay healthy by:

• getting enough sleep
• staying hydrated (yes, even in winter!)
• exercising
• eating healthy foods and snacks
• and washing your hands frequently

Yesterday I interviewed Allen Shawn. Mr. Shawn is a well known composer and as well as author of two other books. His newest book, "TWIN: A MEMOIR" is the compelling story of his life and that of his twin sister Mary, who was diagnosed with autism and institutionalized at the age of 8. His book delves into the science, history and heartbreaking effects that autism can have on those who have been diagnosed and also their family members.

Fruits and Fiction

Today's blog is devoted to fruits (The Pomegranate) and Fiction (Kim Edward's new novel, "THE LAKE OF DREAMS".

Have you eaten pomegranates? I like pomegranate juice and I've also tried the arils (juice sacs) but I have never purchased one from the grocery store and cut it open. A listener called the other day wanting to know the proper way to open a pomegranate and in case you've been wondering this as well, here is a 3-step process to go from messy to easy...

1. cut off the crown and cut the pomegranate into sections.

2. Place sections in a bowl of water; roll out the arils (juice sacs) with your fingers and discard everything else.

3. Strain out the water; eat the juicy seeds (arils)!

This fruit is believed to have been brought to California by the Spanish Padres over 200 years ago when they grew them at their missions. Today, the San Joaquin Valley is the only concentrated area of commercially grown pomegranates in America. When purchasing pomegranates look for skin that is hard, shiny and bright red; the heavier the better (this means more juice); and the crown should be firm and not too soft. Pomegranates are only available September through January so now that you know more about them, go out and enjoy one today!

My interview today was with Kim Edwards, the #1 New York Times best selling author of "The Memory Keeper's Daughter". This book spent 122 weeks on the best seller list in 2006 and Kim released her newest novel yesterday. Her new book is "The Lake of Dreams". The book's central character is Lucy Jarrett, who has been traveling the world ever since her father died. After returning home, from a trip to Japan, she discovers a stack of old letters and historical pamplets in her mother's house, which leads her to confront the truths about her family's history. Ms. Edwards explores the history of women's suffragettes as well as the history and art of glass blowing and how some artists embedded secret messages into stained glass windows. I wasn't able to read the book before the interview because we set the interview on very short notice. I am however, looking forward to it.

We also talked about new uses for coffee beans
1. Pie Weights-line bottom and sides of cold pie dough with foil. Fill to the brim with coffee beans and bake according to directions
2. Hand Deodorizer-after chopping onions or garlic; rub a few beans between your palms to eliminate any lingering smell.
3. Candle anchor-fill hurricane vase with beans before adding a pillar candle to help keep candle steady and minimize mess (beans will catch the wax).
4. Nose Neutralizer. Sniff beans between spritzs at the perfume counter to cleanse your “palate” between fragrances.
5. Pore shirker. Place two cups of medium-to light roast beans (these have more caffeine than dark varieties) in a bowl or bathroom sink and fill with hot water. After a few minutes (when water is cooler), splash your face for a tighter complexion.

The Brain, Beliefs and Blueberries

Our brain is such a fascinating part of us. All the information it is able to store, retrieve, process and remember...as well as all the emotional functions that it's capable of performing never ceases to amaze me.

In today's "Book Nook" segment I spoke with Spencer Lord, author of "THE BRAIN MECHANIC-A QUICK AND EASY WAY TO TUNE UP THE MIND AND MAXIMIZE EMOTIONAL HEALTH". It's a concise, entertaining and easy-to-use handbook that demystifies cognitive behavioral therapy. It took only about 90 minutes to read and Mr. Lord shows us how to overcome negativity, anger, depression and more. First he defines what the brain is(Under the Hood), and the different parts to our brain. In section II (The Tune Up) he tells how we can change our beliefs. In the third part, (The Toolbox) he shows us excercizes that we can initiate and the last part of the book deals with the "Action Plan"-5 quick steps to emotional well being. We can't always control the events that happen in our lives and we have limited control over our emotions but Spencer Lord shows us how to control our beliefs. A very fascinating and thought-provoking book....

If you're looking for a quick and easy dessert that you can make in the slow cooker here's a GREAT one....

Blueberry Cobbler

1 (21 oz.) can blueberry pie filling

1 (9 oz.) pkg. yellow cake mix

1/4 c. chopped pecans

1/4 c. butter, melted

Vanilla ice cream, optional

Place pie filling in greased 1 1/2 quart slow cooker. sprinkle with dry cake mix and pecans. Drizzle with melted butter. cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or until toppping is golden brown. serve warm with ice cream, if desired. (You can also substitute the blueberry pie filling with apple or cherry pie filling).

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy New Year to you!

It's hard to believe another has come and gone.

Are you a person who believes in making New Year's resolutions? I like to write down one or two. Something that I can stick to and feel a sense of accomplishment when I reach my goal.

Marsha Egan-business coach, author and consultant (http://www.inboxdetox.com/) says that if you are going to make resolutions for the new year you need to do the following:

1. Write it down. Seeing it print will motivate you to keep going. Post it at your desk, on the refrigerator and/or the bathroom mirror.

2. Make it specific and make it measureable. Don't just say you want to lose weight. Set a specific goal (Say 10 pounds by March 1st or whatever your specifics might be).

3. Be accountable. Share your resolutions/goals with others. You'll be more apt to stay on track if others know about your goals.

4. Pick a goal that will have the most impact. If there are a number of resolutions that you would like to accomplish, begin with the item that will have the most impact.

One of my resolutions is to blog every day after the show. Monday through Friday. Last year, when I scheduled a specific time during the work day to blog, I managed to do it! So I am taking tip number 3 (see above) to heart.

I have posted my goal for all to see. And I'm sure you will all keep me accountable, if I do not stick to my resolution!!!

I read that most people stick to their New Year's resolutions for about 2 months. I plan to make mine work throughout 2011!

What about you?

One of my goals last year, was to read more books in 2010 than I did in 2009. I first started doing the Idea Exchange program in February 2009 and that first year I read 89 books and did 123 interviews.

In 2010, I read 108 books and did 183 interviews. I read so many wonderful books:

"The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin,**** "Saving Cee Cee Hunicutt" by Beth Hoffman, "Life's too short to fold Fitted Sheets" by Lisa Quinn****, "52 Loaves" by William Alexander (it will change the way you think about this wonderful food), "Heroes for my Son" by Brad Meltzer****, (a fantastic gift to someone who is a hero in your life!) "Messages", by Bonnie McEnnay (about survivors from 9-11 and how they have received messages from their deceased loved ones)***** and those were just some of the great ones that I read from January through June.

****denotes the fact that I feel this is a MUST READ kind of book!

I'll save the second half of the year for tomorrow....

Fudge and Forgotten Delights

Do you like to do lots of baking for the holidays? Just a few family favorites each year? We shared a couple of fudge recipes on the show today.

A favorite that a listener called in last year is Milky Way fudge, made with Milky Way candy bars. Very YUMMY and very easy!

Milky Way Fudge

3 regular size Milky Way candy bars

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips

Place all ingredients in microwave-safe bowl. Melt until smooth. Pour into greased 8x8" glass dish. Chill until firm.

This recipe was also shared on today's program. It would be a festive touch to your holiday dessert platter with the red cranberries...

Cranberry Nut Fudge

1 tsp. butter

1 (16 oz.) can milk chocolate frosting

1 (12 oz.) pkg. milk chocolate chips

1 (6 oz.) pkg. dried cranberries

1/2 c. chopped pecans

LIne an 8" square dish with foil and grease the foil with butter; set aside. In heavy saucepan, combine frosting and chocolate chips. cook and stir over medium low heat until chips are melted. Stir in cranberries and nuts. Pour into prepared pan. Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours. Using foil, lift fudge out of pan. Discard foil; cut fudge into 1" squares. Store in refrigerator. Yield: 2 pounds.

In the Book Nook segment today we spoke with Lesley M.M. Blume, author of "LET'S BRING BACK-AN ENCYCLOPEDIA OF FORGOTTEN YET DELIGHTFUL, CHIC, USEFUL, CURIOUS AND OTHERWISE COMMENDABLE THINGS FROM TIMES GONE BY". It's a whimsical and beautifully illustrated collection of objects, recipes, words, and even people that she feels should be re-introduced...

As I read through the book, I easily flagged about two dozen things. For instance: door-to-door peddlers (I remember the Fuller Brush Man and the Minnesota Woolen Mills rep who stopped at our house once every six weeks or so). Good Cracker Jack prizes (I liked to collect all the circus train cars). Homely Christmas Trees. (No matter what our tree really looked like, Dad always proclaimed it was "The prettiest tree we ever had!")

There are so many more items that will trigger your memories. A fun read, and a great gift to give or receive.

In the "Book Nook" this week:

Monday, November 15th: Lesley M. M. Blume, "LET'S BRING BACK"-
a whimsical, beautifully illustrated encyclopedia of forgotten yet delightfully, useful, curious and otherwise commendable things from time gone by. As I read the book, I flagged many little bits and pieces that jogged a memory. For instance: poloroid cameras (I remember seeing the picture develop before my eyes and thinking it was MAGIC!), princess phones (I so badly wanted one as a teenager but received a "slim-line" instead), good Cracker Jack prizes (my favorites: the circus wagon cars), bandstands (we had a raised wooden platform, painted green in the city park where I grew up-we gathered there on warm summer evenings to hear local musicians. It was also the place where my sister and I would pretend we were girlfriends of the Beatles and we would haul park benches onto the stage to form our "apartments"). A fun read to resurrect memories and to spark conversation with other family members.

Wednesday, November 17th: Julie Klamm, "YOU HAD ME AT WOOF-How dogs taught me the secret of happiness".
A fun little book about the pets in our lives, what they can teach us.

Thursday, November 18th: Christine Lindner, this year's Alice in Dairyland will be in studio to talk about the "Something Special from Wisconsin" program-just in time for holiday gift giving...

Friday, November 19th: Debbie Macomber, "GOD'S GUEST LIST", a FANTASTIC read! Debbie makes you think about all the people God has placed in your life for various reasons...It will really give you reason to pause, take stock and look at your relationships in a new way...