Valley Winters and the Blahs

Winter in the valley is never my favorite, not even likable in my opinion.  I have always felt that after Christmas cold weather should be over.  Living in an agricultural area, I do understand the importance of the rain.  Therefore, I don't mind a few rainy days here and there.  I see no need for the frost though.  That is totally unacceptable.  It's only purpose is to kill your plants and cause frost delays on the golf course. 

Now this is not what a golf day should look like.

The cold, grey, valley winters do provide for great snuggling on the couch with your favorite pet and a nice cozy, warm fire.  A good football game on TV is certainly enjoyable.  I do enjoy that occasionally.   Of course, if you are going to spend your time being a couch potato you have to have couch potato snacks.  These are never healthy snacks unfortunately.  Healthy snacks just don't seem to compliment laying on the couch all day.   







So, needless to say it is time to for me to get off the couch, dust off my golf clubs and running shoes.  I will go to the pantry and empty it of all the deliciously, horrible foods that become my friends during the cold, blah days of winter.  I will actually visit the outer aisles of the grocery store (where all the produce and non processed foods usually hang out).  I will be faithful in working out regularly, but I will continue to complain about that one.  I know there are still a few months with some cold days in store, but I did see the sun today, so I am optimistic that spring will be here soon. 

I'll say a toast with a nice glass of wine...(What? It's good for the heart!) and leave you with a wonderful healthy soup recipe.  Enjoy!    

Harvest Salmon Chowder

1 can of salmon                                                                 1 tsp. salt

1 clove of garlic, minced                                                   1 tsp. pepper

1/2 cup chopped onion and celery                                     1/2 tsp Thyme

2 Tblsp. Butter                                                                   1 cup Broccoli, chopped

1 cup potatoes, diced                                                          1 can of creamed corn

1 cup carrots, diced                                                            1 can Evaporated Milk 

2 cups Chicken Broth                                                         Parsley, minced

Drain & flake salmon, reserving liquid.  Saute garlic, onion, celery in butter.  Add potatoes, carrots, reserved salmon liquid, chicken broth and seasonings.  Simmer covered for 20 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender.  Add broccoli and cook for 5 minutes.  Add flaked salmon, corn and evaporated milk, heat throuroughly.  Sprinkle with minced parsley.  Makes 4-6 Servings