Uninvited guests

February brought uninvited guests to the kitchen at Many Branches.  They seemed to know when the contract with pest control was about to run out, so the first warm day of Febuary they came bags in hand to take up residence.  It was very disappointing, but today March 7th, the pest control crew comes back with their magic elixir to send them on their way to hassle other folks.  They have spread.  Once they were satisfied with a small section of the kitchen and now, like real hogs, they want it all and part of the dining room which has not seen use, but with weekly cleaning, since December.  How do they do it? Well, this is pleasant writing for early in the morning.  Nevertheless, our human guests can rest assured they will be gone!

Today is fish day.  I think I will start off with roasted potatoes and carrots in herbs and olive oil in the oven, and then at the last few minutes add the fish in butter and herbs to bake for about 12-15 minutes.  Any left overs will make a nice fish stew for tomorrow.  I will be missing these one tray bakes and one pot dishes when the really warm weather comes around.  Life is easy with one pot meals with our busy lives. Also, Joe and Glenda are coming to stay for a few days.   These are great do- ahead meals and meals that burble away while cards are played and drinks are consumed, and gossip is enjoyed.  We need to focus on Easter's menu as well.  I am eager to try a lamb dish.  I saw Ina do a lamb dish which cooked several hours low and slow and was then placed on a bed of beans.  It was put in the center of the table and people just forked off hunks of succulent lamb with scoops of hearty beans family style.  (Tom, rest assured beef roast will be on the menu too.)