Fire

Fire by Kristin Cashore

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

One of the reasons I really enjoyed the first book in the series was having a strong, independent female character. I went into this book expecting a similar character. I liked Fire, the main character, but I didn't love her as much as Katsa in the first book. Overall I enjoyed the book. Although this a book in a series, reading the first book is definitely not essential to understanding and appreciating this book.

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Winston's New Bed

Is Joe.

I'm on a cross-stitching kick again, so I haven't been cooking as much. I still have several recipes I'll hopefully get around to blogging.

Baked Potato Soup

I originally posted this soup in February, 2010, but I didn't have a photo. Now here you go!

I wish I made more, until next time. I found this recipe on Pennies on a Platter.

I halved the recipe to give a heaping 3-4 servings. I wasn't a fan of the lumps of potato, so I used my immersion blender to puree it (the first time, the second I liked the lumps).

Makes 3-4 bowls

INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup, minus 1 tablesppon, flour
3 1/2 cups milk
2 large baking potatoes, baked, peeled and cubed (I just microwaved mine)
3 green onions, sliced (and then more for garnish)
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled (optional)
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon pepper, plus more for seasoning
garlic salt, to taste

DIRECTIONS
In a large soup kettle or Dutch oven, melt the butter. Stir in flour; heat and stir until smooth. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened (about 10 minutes). Add potatoes and onions. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.

Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add remaining ingredients and stir until cheese is melted. Puree with immersion blender (optional).

Season to taste with salt, pepper and garlic salt. Serve immediately.

Who needs a dishwasher...

...when your dog enjoys licking the dishes so much?