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Celery Soup

Michigan Celery Soup

March 12, 2019

Before you run, you must know that I’ve made this soup no less than four times in the last two weeks alone. It’s that good. Even my pickiest child eats it by the bowl full. Better yet, even…

Civics Challenge Know Your Leader

Civics Challenge #3: Know Your Leaders

February 26, 2019

After I moved to Tennessee a few years ago, someone who knew I had a background in politics asked me a question about the governor. I don’t remember exactly what was said, but I embarrassingly had…

World Peace Cookies

World Peace Cookies

February 14, 2019

These cookies aren’t just good. They’re gooooooood. In fact, in one of her cookbooks, world-renowned baker Dorie Greenspan, nicknamed these delectable chocolate cookies “World Peace Cookies.” She says, “If everyone had it, peace would reign o’er the planet. I’m…

Civics Challenge #2: Pay Attention

January 30, 2019

Learning to be more civically engaged may start with a positive attitude and desire to do more, but it doesn’t stop there. Being civically engaged is more than just doing things. It’s an entire mindset, a change…

Civics Challenge #1: Your Attitude Is Everything

January 15, 2019

It’s no surprise that a majority of Americans say they distrust the government or have a negative view of it. The media paints an ugly portrait of the current political climate as “being a unique time in…

Becoming Civic Minded

Three Easy Steps to a Civic-Minded Life

January 1, 2019

  “The practice of democracy is not passed down through the gene pool. It must be taught.” -Sandra Day O’Connor   It’s a new year, a new you! At least our #goals can help us become the…

Thomas Jefferson’s Favorite Christmas Cookie

December 12, 2018

These perfectly crackled molasses “ginger cakes” are said to be Thomas Jefferson’s favorite Christmas cookies (they’re similar to gingerbread cookies). They’re called Ginger Cakes and if you are ever visiting Colonial Williamsburg, you can find these delectable…

Remembering a President

December 5, 2018

While my children got ready for school this morning, the coverage of President George H.W. Bush’s funeral was on throughout our house. We rarely have TV on these days, but it was important to me that…

avoid airport lines

How to Avoid Lines at the Airport

November 30, 2018

My husband and I nervously glanced at each other as we glanced at the scene before us– our three young children in tow. A massive line of people snaking every which way through the Las Vegas airport…

Lyndon B. Johnson’s Pedernales River Chili

November 27, 2018

“Chili concocted outside Texas is usually a weak, apologetic imitation of the real thing. One of the first things I do when I get home to Texas is to have a bowl of red. There is…

Baby moccs