Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

 

 

Book:  Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Rating:  B
Genre:  Historical Fantasy
Age Appropriate:  Adult

 

The story begins with Claire Randall, a former army combat nurse, vacationing with her husband off the British Isles.  After touching an ancient stone structure she is transferred back in time to war torn 18th century Scotland.  She quickly becomes involved with James Fraser, a young Scottish warrior, who steals her heart and almost breaks it.  Claire finds herself torn between her old life back in 1945 and her new life in 1743.  No matter what (or who) she choose, Claire knows her life will never be the same again.

I really enjoyed the unique mix of history and fantasy.  It was really what saved this book for me.  It had a really slow, steady moving pace. I would never classify it as "boring", but it also never got to the point where I just couldn't put it down.  Anyway, it was just good enough that I will eventually continue on with the series.  

Question:  What did you like or dislike about Claire as the "heroine" in the story?     

 See the comments for my opinion.  I had some major issues with her, but I don't want to post any spoilers here!

Author Diana Gabaldon's Website

Green Bean Tater Tot Casserole

This recipe has been a favorite of my family for years.  My mom started making this for me as a little girl, and I still enjoy it from time to time.  Not only that, but I have gotten my hubby hooked! I'm not sure where she got the recipe from.  My guess would be a church cookbook.  The best part about this recipe is the simpleness of it all.  Very easy.  Very delicious.  Enjoy!

Green Bean Tater Tot Casserole
Source:  Dear Mom
Servings:  4-5

Ingredients
1 lb. hamburger
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 c. milk
1 can green beans, drained
tater tots
small onion, chopped
crushed red pepper, optional

#1)  Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Brown hamburger and onion over medium high heat.  Add a pinch of red pepper, if desired.

#2)  Drain grease from ground beef.  Put in the bottom of sprayed (greased) round casserole dish.  (Round or 8x8)

#3) Drain beans and spread on top of ground beef.  Note:  I use no added salt canned vegetables.

#4)  Spread tater tots on top of beans.  Make sure to place them very close together. 

#5) Mix milk and soup REALLY well in a small bowl with a whisk.  I've noticed that fat free milk adds to the hot dish being watery.  I always use 2%.  Pour over the casserole.  Add salt/pepper, if desired.  Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees until bubbly and brown. 

#6)  Remove and let set for a minimum of 5 minutes.  I usually serve with bread and salad.  Enjoy!

Well...Hello There

After spending numerous days, hours, and even weeks looking at other people's blogs, I have decided it is time for me to start my own.  I have an interesting life, right?  Okay, maybe not so much, but I am INSANELY jealous of people who can blog about their lives as a full-time job.  I have three loves in my life - my husband (who will also contribute from time to time!), reading, and cooking.  This blog will be about all those things.  Well, that and something that I don't love loathe, but that is absolutely necessary to my sanity and health - running.  I also love teaching (most of the time), but might have to keep my students out of this.  Wouldn't want to lose my job!

I love cooking and baking, and my husband loves eating.  We are the perfect pair!  Unfortunately, I also love to eat (especially sweets).  Most of the food that I cook is fairly healthy but not always, of course!  Look for posts about the recipes I attempt (good or bad).  Whole wheat, fresh, non-artificial foods fill my kitchen.  Over the last few weeks, I've transitioned from artificial sweeteners to the real thing.  Those chemicals just can't be good for our bodies.  We've also failed many attempts at vegetarianism and veganism (is that what it would be called?)   My hubby and I both grew up in small farming communities.  Meat is essential, and I love to cook with it!  Mind you, I do try to stick with Smart Chicken. 

When I'm on a roll, I'll also read about a book a week.  Discussing books has quickly become a passion of mine.  Love them so much!   

As with everything else, this blog is a work in progress.  The best way I can think to grow my "fan-base" is to become fans of others.  If I've made a comment on your wall, I REALLY appreciate you checking this out.  Stop back often!

Lindsey

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Hunger Games Series #1)

"Winning means fame and fortune.  Losing means certain death.  
The Hunger Games have begun...." 

Book:  The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Rating:  A+ 
Genre:  YA Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic
Age Appropriate:  7th Grade - Adult 

Here we go!  This is my very first (of many) book reviews.  I am an avid reader and want to share my love of books with the world.  About a month ago, I finished The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.  This was a can't eat, can't sleep, can't-put-down-until-I-finish book! 

Forever fascinated by the post-apocalyptic genre, I could not pass up this book once I started getting word of the constant raving.  It is an action-packed story about a young gladiator thrown into an arena and forced to fight to the death.  Katniss Everdeen, the young protagonist, struck me as completely unforgettable.  Her strength, determination, and love of her sister, Prim, makes her hard not to become attached too.  Although, love triangles never seem to disappoint me either! ;)

This book only took me a couple days to finish, and I've managed to hook others onto the Hunger Games craze!  My hubby loved the book, and I'm currently reading it to my 7th and 8th grade English class.  The kids are obsessed; they're begging me on a daily basis to read to them, even passing up a movie the other day!

Please leave some comments!
What did you think of the book?  What was your favorite part?  Favorite character? 

"Happy Hunger Games!  And may the odds be ever in your favor!" - Effie Trinket

Author Suzanne Collin's Website