Irish Recipes, Thrifting and One Sad Dog

St. Pat's Day- Being part Irish, I always enjoy a low key, but somewhat traditional, Irish celebration. No bars or green beer for me. I made a wonderful batch of corned beef, carrots, cabbage and Yukon gold potatoes yesterday. It was the best batch of corned beef I'd ever made, as I spent a little more and got a better "flat cut". I used the seasoning packets, add a tablespoon of whole peppers corns, and a couple cloves of smashed fresh garlic. Simmer for 1 hour per pound, and it came out really tender!

I also made some Hot Cross Buns, which I had never made, as a test batch for Easter. I used this recipe, great for smaller families- Allrecipes.com You could easily double/triple the recipe. I used only raisins and a little extra allspice. Here they are after the 2nd rise-

After baking, pre-icing.

Really great flavor, not too sweet. I had 3, Dave had 2, while watching the movie The Shipping News (filmed in Newfoundland, wonderful, adult film), which seemed appropriate. Some of the characters were originally from Britain. OMG, they were awesome, blew my calories for the day, but worth it! They are best served warm...

Thrifting- I had some more donations for a local thrift store, as I'm still losing weight. I picked up 5 designer tops for $19.99! It is so much EASIER to find smaller clothing now, that's a relief. I got a Ralph Lauren flannel blouse, a Columbia Sportswear summer blouse, a denim jacket, a corduroy blouse, and a Coldwater Creek summer blouse, all like new. I really scored! I saved the couple that are a little too small, as they will fit in a month or two. It's fun to shop ahead, knowing I'm still shrinking, it's a great way to plan ahead...

One Sad Dog- Samantha, our sweet Aussie mix, was really missing Dave, as he had to work out of town for two days. The first night she had laid on his pillow, shifted a bit as I took photos. That expression says it all- where is he??? She was sniffing around in his closet the next morning, as she was really lonely-

RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY...

 Now if it would just stop raining I could get out in the yard! At least it's spring break in one more week. I hope it dries out soon...