Thanks to Annie for continuing the Tuesday 4! You can join in HERE.
Tuesday 4
Cooking
Welcome to Tuesday 4 which we keep going in memory of our dear friend Toni Taddeo.
This week how about talking about cooking tips and advice? We probably all have some things to pass along!
1. What is the most valuable kitchen utensil you have or one you use often and could not live without?
I tend to grab the spatula often...
2. Do you have any fancy gadgets like air fryers, etc in your kitchen? How are they working out for you?
I do have an air fryer that I haven't mastered yet, and an InstantPot that I've only used about three times. I do use the air fryer often as a toaster or oven.
3. Do you have any step or labor-saving ideas that make cooking and meal preparation easier?
Yes... buy everything already chopped and cleaned at Publix!
4. What is your favorite recipe of all time? Would you share it with us?
I have lots of recipes I love and make frequently. There is a recipe tab on my blog that you can go to and copy any number of recipes if you are so inclined. Usually, when I cook I just throw things together and don't use a recipe. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't! LOL
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Helen update: Well, Helen has declined a bit. I spoke with one of the nurses yesterday afternoon to see if I needed to come over for her evening medicine (they did hear from her doctor). They told me that she took clothing out of her drawers and put them in another person's apartment and also some clothing in the hallway. When I got there yesterday morning, she was complaining and had made a mess in the bathroom. I cleaned up and got her settled. She said they hadn't brought her breakfast so I went to find out about that. I was told she was sleeping when they brought it in so they did the rest of the hallway before trying again and she was still sleeping so they didn't leave it. I asked for coffee and a fruit cup which they brought and I gave her a Boost to drink. She was happy. The Spectrum guy came to fix her phone and it can't be transferred until the end of the month. That just doesn't seem right so I am trying to see what's up with that. The nurse I spoke to in the afternoon did mention that perhaps Helen should be in the memory unit. After being pretty good for a few days, she really has slipped back. If it means moving her furniture back to the house, I guess that's what I will have to do. Makes me so sad to see her like this. God bless her though, at 93.


I am really sorry to hear about Helen's current state of mind. I am sure she is very confused about her new situation. It usually takes a little while to adapt, especially at her age, and also if she has memory issues already. I will definitely be praying for her and for you as you help with all of these details when you still have your own issues to take care of. May God give you the wisdom and strength you need for each situation. Now, regarding cooking, I like rubber spatulas too. I don't have an air fryer or instapot. I tend to do things the old fashioned way, except I do use my microwave and toaster oven as needed. I have an electric tea-kettle for boiling water and that was the best item we ever bought since I was always burning up tea kettles on the stove. LOL. Will be thinking of you today.
ReplyDeleteSpatulas come in real handy!! Happy Tuesday!
ReplyDeleteI dont like to cook and am blessed to have a son that does all the cooking around here. We dont have an air fryer or instapot but know lot who do and love using them. I am so sorry to hear about Helen and will pray she can settle down and stay where she is and I know she is grateful for your help.
ReplyDeleteSpatulas are very handy. I've thought about getting an air fryer but keep talking myself out of it. lol
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear about Helen declining. My mom went through that after we put her in assisted living too.
Hi Florida neighbor! I live in Florida too! I have an air fryer and I love it! My next try is cinnamon rolls. Which I think I will do today as soon as my kiddo wakes up! I want an instant pot so bad. I have heard it cuts cooking time down a lot.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the front we're about to have!
Helen's mind may have been what drove Cheryl to the brink. I pray that you will have helpful people there to guide you.
ReplyDeleteI am with you on Publix. Greatest grocery store ever. They think for me.
Oh Terri, I'm so sorry to hear about Helen ... but glad you're not having to shoulder her living with you, even overnight. Giggling and nodding my head about the spatula. (Is it wrong to have a favorite spatula? Asking for a friend.) Tom loves the air fryer to heat frozen lasagna and make pizza. Here, I was the one who wanted it but much prefer the Instant Pot for making spaghetti and corn casserole - so far, my favorites. HUGS!
ReplyDeleteFor just general things, wooden spoons are my "go to" kitchen utensil. Steve does all the cooking, though, I clean up. :)
ReplyDeletePoor Helen. She's just confused. I pray it doesn't stress you any. Stay strong, my friend.
Sending love & prayers xx
So sorry to hear of Helen's decline, Terri. I worry about my mother at age 92, that her mind is slipping just a bit. Makes it all the more important to visit her and soon!
ReplyDeleteI think my favorite kitchen "tool" is the crock pot.
Blessings!
I agree with the nurse, Terri. I think she needs more care in the memory unit. It is sad to see loved ones decline. My mother is 90 and we have seen a big difference in her cognitive responses this year. God Bless you for being a caring friend.
ReplyDeleteI like to use a spatula a lot also.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry about Helen. It is awesome you are doing all you can do. Loved your answers. Have a nice day!
https://lorisbusylife.blogspot.com/
enjoyed your answers, So sorry for Helen, prayers, and hugs to you for being such a good care giver, it is a hard job. hope you have a great week
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post. Sorry to hear about Helen - sending you hugs and prayers. Care taking is a difficult job on any level.
ReplyDeleteI love spatulas too! I don't have an air fryer but keep hearing good things about them.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know you had a recipe tab. I need to check that.
When people have dementia they often decline when they move. Having everything that they are used to change, is hard for them to keep up with. Sometimes they improve as they get used to the new surroundings. Praying that happens with Helen.
You will find some of yours there too, Mari. I posted recipes here before I got Pinterest.
DeleteI also like the pre chopped veggies! They make life so much easier.
ReplyDelete