Weather ~ Picture of the Day ~ Julie Andrews ~ Zucchini Soup ~ National Dog Day

  

Good 55º smokey morning. 

 

 

Yesterday, again, the smoke was awful and we topped at 94º.

 

 

Picture of the day......1954, my mom and I waiting to see the White House....

 

 

Interesting about Julie Andrews...........

 

Dame Julie Andrews DBE (born Julia Elizabeth Wells; 1 October 1935) is an English actress, singer, and author. She has garnered numerous accolades throughout her career spanning over seven decades, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, two Emmy Awards, three Grammy Awards and six Golden Globe Awards as well as nominations for three Tony Awards. She has been honoured with the Kennedy Center Honors in 2001, the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2007, and the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2022. She was made a Dame (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000.

 

A child actress and singer, Andrews appeared in the West End in 1948 and made her Broadway debut in The Boy Friend (1954). Billed as "Britain's youngest prima donna", she rose to prominence in Broadway musicals starring as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady (1956) and Queen Guinevere in Camelot (1960). She also starred in the Rodgers and Hammerstein's television musical Cinderella (1957). Andrews made her feature film debut in Walt Disney's Mary Poppins (1964) where she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. The following year, she starred in the musical film The Sound of Music (1965), playing Maria von Trapp and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Comedy or Musical.

 

Between 1964 and 1986, Andrews starred in various films working with directors including her husband Blake Edwards, George Roy Hill, and Alfred Hitchcock. Films she starred in include The Americanization of Emily (1964), Hawaii (1966), Torn Curtain (1966), Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967), Star! (1968), The Tamarind Seed (1974), 10 (1979), S.O.B. (1981), Victor/Victoria (1982), That's Life! (1986), and Duet for One (1986). She returned to films appearing in The Princess Diaries (2001), The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004), as well as Eloise at the Plaza and Eloise at Christmastime (both 2003). She also lent her voice to the Shrek franchise and the Despicable Me franchise (2010–present).

 

Andrews is also known for her collaborations with Carol Burnett, including the specials Julie and Carol at Carnegie Hall (1962), Julie and Carol at Lincoln Center (1971) and Julie and Carol: Together Again (1989). She starred in her own variety special The Julie Andrews Hour (1973) for which she received the Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Musical Series. Recently she co-created and hosted Julie's Greenroom (2017), and voiced Lady Whistledown in the Netflix series Bridgerton (2020-present). Andrews has co-authored numerous children's books with her daughter and two autobiographies, Home: A Memoir of My Early Years (2008) and Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years (2019).

 

With the outbreak of World War II, her parents went their separate ways and were soon divorced

 

To read a lot more, go here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julie_Andrews

 

 

 

 

Here is a good recipe for all of you who have a ton of zucchini from and in your gardens....

ZUCCHINI SOUP

 

1 T unsalted butter

2 T extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

1 garlic clove thinly sliced

Kosher or sea salt

fresh ground pepper

1½ pounds zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced ¼" thick

2/3 cup vegetable stock or low sodium broth

 

In a large saucepan melt butter in the olive oil. Add onion and garlic, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until softened, 7-8 minutes. Add zucchini, cook stirring frequently, until softened, about 10 minutes. Add stock and 1½ cups water. Bring to simmer, cook until zucchini is very soft, about 10 minutes

 

Working in 2 batches, puree the soup in blender until it's silky-smooth. Return to saucepan, season with salt and pepper (to taste). Serve it either hot or chilled, garnished with julienne zucchini. Or, freeze it for later.

 

 

 

Historically this date.............

1818 – Illinois becomes the 21st state in the union of the United States.

1883 – The 1883 eruption of Krakatoa begins its final, paroxysmal, stage.

1920 – The 19th amendment to United States Constitution takes effect, giving women the right to vote.

1942 – Holocaust in Chortkiav, western Ukraine: At 2.30 am the German Schutzpolizei starts driving Jews out of their houses, divides them into groups of 120, packs them in freight cars and deports 2000 to Belzec death camp. 500 of the sick and children are murdered on the spot

...............so horrible and disgusting.

1970 – The then new feminist movement, led by Betty Friedan, leads a nation-wide Women's Strike for Equality.

 

1980 – After John Birges plants a bomb at Harvey's Resort Hotel in Stateline, Nevada, in the United States, the FBI inadvertently detonates the bomb during its disarming.

 

2009 – Kidnapping victim Jaycee Dugard is discovered alive in California after being missing for over 18 years.

 

2015 – Two U.S. journalists are shot and killed by a disgruntled former coworker while conducting a live report in Moneta, Virginia.

 

2017 – The Mercedes-Benz Stadium opens in Atlanta, Georgia, replacing the Georgia Dome that was demolished on November 20.

 

And births this date include...

 

1910 – Mother Teresa, Macedonian-born Indian missionary; Nobel Peace Prize recipient (d. 1997)

 

 

 

1970 – Melissa McCarthy, American actress, comedian, producer, and screenwriter

 

1980 – Macaulay Culkin, American actor

    .........can you say 'drugs' !!!

 

 

 

 

All I know. Nuff said. Have a good Saturday. Ciao.

xo Sue Mom Bobo

National Dog Day on August 26th encourages dog ownership of all breeds. While seeking a new companion, be sure to consider the mutts, mixes, purebreds, and everything in between. 

Whether mixed or purebred, embrace the opportunity for all dogs to live a happy, safe, and abuse-free life. They all give us companionship. Additionally, they keep us safe, and they aid those in need. Dogs play. Well, they play many roles in our lives, too! They keep us healthy, both physically and mentally.

While many days aim to find loving homes for dogs, this day expands that consideration to look beyond the breed. Look into the heart of the animal. The purpose of the National Dog Day Foundation is to rescue 10,000 dogs each year.

A dog is man’s best friend.

Breeds

Purebreds are animals whose parents were both of the same breed. While the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes official breeds, not all dogs with parents from the same breed are considered official by the AKC. One benefit of purebred animals is that characteristics such as behavior and size are predictable.

With mixed breed animals, the genetics becomes uncertain, and some of the predictability is lost. However, when it comes to choosing a dog to add to your family or for training one to join a team, both purebred and mixed breeds may still fit the bill. Both types of dogs, young and old, find their way to shelters.

Many popular breeds fill shelters due to recent films or television shows. Families buy an animal imagining they will make the perfect pet but are unprepared for the training, care, and other responsibilities that come with canine care. Regardless of their genetics, all dogs require care and training. If there’s a particular breed that has captured your heart, check the shelters. You might be surprised to find either a purebred or one that is a mix of the kind you’re fond of.

When dogs find a forever home, their companionship creates lifelong benefits. They bring with them joy, loyalty, and devotion. Eventually, no matter the breed, these pets become family.

TIPS ON HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DOG DAY

When considering adoption, adopt, don’t shop. If you have your heart set on a purebred companion, consider visiting a website like bestfriends.org or petfinder.com to find one at a shelter. Learn how organizations like these are changing the way we adopt. As you search for your new family member, get prepared. Keep in mind the needs of a small versus large dog. Until you find your forever companion, consider volunteering at your shelter or becoming a foster parent.

Take your dog for a walk.  If you do not have a dog, ask to take your neighbor’s dog for a stroll, or volunteer at a shelter. Be sure to stock up on plenty of Dog Treats as well.

NATIONAL DOG DAY HISTORY

Colleen Paige, pet lifestyle expert, founded National Dog Day in 2004.

Dog FAQ

Q. What does a dog do when it’s happy?
A. A happy dog will hold its tail high and wag it. Other signs that a dog is happy include:

• Relaxed ears and body posture
• Leaning on you
• Initiates play

Q. What does it mean when a dog licks you?
A. There may be many reasons for a dog licking a human. Licking may be a sign of affection (awe, he likes you!!). It might also be because you just ate that piece of jerky or you taste a little salty. Licking can also be a way to get your attention. Is it mealtime? Do they need to go out? They might also be telling you, “Hey, don’t stop scratching that spot

Weather/Smoke ~ Picture of the Day ~ Dryer Sheets ~ Spring Rolls ~ Deer and Rabbit ~ National Park Service Founders Day ~ National Whiskey Sour Day

  

Good 55º super smokey morning. Can't see my mountain...

 Yesterday the smoke moved in and I couldn't see my mountain....

We topped at 101º.

Here are 2 day predictions..........

 

 

Picture of the Day....a wine chair! 😉

 

 

Interesting what you can do with dryer sheets...

 

1. Repel rodents: Believe it or not, rodents cannot stand the smell of dryer sheets! If you’re trying to keep mice and rats at bay, just tuck a few scented dryer sheets in the spots in your home where they like to lurk.

2. Remove deodorant stains: There are few things more annoying than pulling on a clean shirt and accidentally covering it with your deodorant. Luckily, a few swipes with a dryer sheet should remove those powder marks in no time flat.

3. Clean your car: After driving long distances, the front of your car can look like a bug graveyard. Wipe it clean with a wet dryer sheet to rid yourself of all those guy guts without harming the nice finish on your ride.

4. Clean dry spills: Because of their fibers, dryer sheets are great for wiping up dry messes, like flour. The spill will have no problem adhering to the sheet and your mess will be gone with barely any effort!

5. Dusting: Dryer sheets weren’t made to dust your home, but they should have been! Not only can they clean up dust in a thrice, but they can also help keep dust from settling on surfaces for weeks at a time.

6. Sharpen scissors: Don’t waste a lot of money on an expensive knife-sharpening stone when dryer sheets work just as well—and they cost a fraction of what you’d pay otherwise! Just wipe your scissor blades (or other knives) carefully on the sheet.

7. Clean glass: If your computer screen is a mess or your TV screens are looking dingy, just wipe them down with dryer sheets. They will quickly and safely leave your screens clean and scratch-free to boot!

8. Remove pet hair: If you own a pet, then you know how much their fur can be the bane of your existence. To remove it from your clothes and couch cushions, simply swipe a dryer sheet over the area.

9. Scent filter: Do you notice a stale smell from your air conditioning or heating vents? That’s really easy to fix with dryer sheets. Just tuck one inside of the vent for fresh-smelling air in a snap!

10. Clean your toilet: If your toilet’s due for a cleaning but you’re fresh out of toilet bowl cleaner, don’t worry. Simply drop two dryer sheets in your toilet instead. Let them sit a while, then remove and scrub for a pristine pot.

11. Swiffer refills: We all dread the moment we run out of Swiffer refills, but dryer sheets can help in a pinch. Strap on a few dryer sheets to your Swiffer sweeper and be amazed at how quickly and cleanly they pick up dirt!

12. Freshen shoes: Our shoes do us the great favor of protecting our feet every single day. Go ahead and return that favor by stuffing them with dryer sheets when you aren’t wearing them to help keep them smelling nice and fresh.

13. Remove burned food: This one is so good! If you left a pot on the stove too long and it has burned food stuck to it, ditch the sponge and try scrubbing with a dryer sheet instead. Watch all that burned-up gunk fall away.

14. Reduce frizz: If you struggle with little hairs that just can’t be tamed, try rubbing a dryer sheet over your brush before tackling your mane. You’ll be impressed by the silky smooth results!

15. Clean your shower: Soap scum is such a tough thing to get rid of, but it doesn’t have to be! Just use a moist dryer sheet and watch that soap scum melt away. Your shower will be sparkling before you know it.

16. Freshen your car: Even if you keep your vehicle clean and tidy, you can still get stuck with weird odors from time to time. Tuck dryer sheets underneath the front seats and your car will smell just divine!

17. Keep luggage smelling fresh: After unpacking from a long trip, put a few dryer sheets in your empty luggage before storing it. That way it will have a pleasant scent when you open it up again for your next trip!

18. Repel mosquitoes: Stuck with a serious case of bug bites after your last summer stroll? Next time, tuck a dryer sheet or two inside of your pockets or tie one to your belt; mosquitoes hate the scent!

 

 ** It works super keeping mosquitoes away!

 

 

 

 

From Mr. Food

 

If you love ordering spring rolls from Chinese Takeout restaurants, then this is the recipe for you! Our spring rolls are easy to make and taste amazing. They're filled with a flavorful veggie mixture and fried until golden and crispy. They make a great appetizer or can be served right alongside some fried rice and your favorite takeout main dish!

 

 

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 6 cups shredded Chinese cabbage
• 2 cups fresh bean sprouts
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 3 scallions (green onions), chopped
• 12 spring roll or egg roll wrappers
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Oil for frying

 

 

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder; mix well.
    
2. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, bean sprouts, carrot, and scallions; mix well. Pour soy sauce mixture over cabbage mixture; toss to coat well and let stand 10 minutes. Place cabbage mixture in a colander and squeeze to drain well.
    
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup cabbage mixture evenly onto center of each egg roll wrapper. Lightly brush edges of egg roll wrapper with beaten egg. Fold one corner of each egg roll wrapper up over cabbage mixture then fold both sides over, envelope fashion; roll up tightly.
    
4. Heat about 1-1/2 inches oil in a deep medium saucepan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add spring rolls in batches and fry 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden. Drain on a paper towel-lined platter. Serve immediately, but be sure to use caution -- the filling will be hot.

 

• To serve these like they do in Chinese restaurants, don't forget the dipping sauce! A couple of our favorite dipping sauces are duck sauce and spicy mustard.
   
• Did You Know?: In China, spring rolls are traditionally eaten during the Chinese New Year as a way to welcome in the spring. They're also said to represent wealth (because of their golden color). Spring rolls can vary in size, filling, and cooking method (some are fried, while others are steamed), from region to region. In the U.S., spring rolls and egg rolls are pretty similar, with the main difference being the filling. While both contain veggies, egg rolls typically include some kind of meat, chicken, or fish too.

 

 

 

 

Historically this date............

1933 – The Diexi earthquake strikes Mao County, Sichuan, China and kills 9,000 people.

...9,000!!!!!

 

 

1944 – World War II: Paris is liberated by the Allies.

 

 

1989 – Voyager 2 spacecraft makes its closest approach to Neptune, the outermost planet in the Solar System.

 

 

 

And births this date include....

1913 – Don DeFore, American actor (d. 1993)

... "Thorny" in Ozzie & Harriet and "Mr. B" in Hazel.

1916 – Van Johnson, American actor (d. 2008)

.... one thing I remember about him is that he always, always, wore red socks!

 

1930 – Sir Thomas Sean Connery, Scottish actor (d.2020)

 

 

 

1933 – Tom Skerritt, American actor

 

1949 – Gene Simmons, Israeli-born musician (Kiss) Interesting read about his life...

 

 

 

1958 – Tim Burton, American film director

 

 

 

1961 – Billy Ray Cyrus, American singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist

 

 

 

1968 – Rachael Ray, American chef and television personality

 

 

When I water my grass out front, the female deer come and munch on it.... they look like this:

 

 

Also, lately I've had a couple wild rabbits also munching on my grass. Looks like this:

 

 

All I know. Nuff said. Have a good Friday. Ciao.

xo Sue Mom Bobo

On this day in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed what is now called the Organic Act. It established the National Park Service. As part of the Department of Interior, the National Park Service protects 400 areas in each of the 50 states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia totaling 84 million acres.

National Park Service Founders Day recognizes the superior conservation and preservation efforts of the National Parks System. Whether enjoying scenic trails, open spaces, watersheds or recreational areas, the National Parks Service provides a natural outdoor resource accessible to every American. Hiking and biking trails entice us to explore. They also offer an outdoor experience like no other. These parks challenge us with more beauty and history that most of us can imagine.

 

A Trip Through Time

Not only does the National Park Service provide access to millions of acres of the most picturesque places in the country, but it also takes us back in time. Through historic trails, we walk in the footsteps of Harriet Tubman. A historic trail in Maryland takes us along the path of the Underground Railroad where Tubman led men and women away from slavery and to freedom. In Ohio, we explore the infancy of aviation in the United States.

As we travel through the beauty of the historic Natchez Trace, we’ll discover the intense and tragic histories that lay along the way. From Native Americans to European settlement and the Civil War, the Natchez Trace survived it all.

West of the Mississippi, ancient ruins and resurrected forts tell the stories of those who have gone before us. In rustic settings or an out-of-the-way oasis in New Mexico, rediscover the history of untold ages. After the arid West, head North and study the Klondike Gold Rush in Washington or the history of Columbia River, too.

Majestic beasts and glorious sunsets throughout the National Park Service entice visitors all year long. Some of these parks are in your own backyard, too! They are a mere stone’s throw away. Once you get started, you won’t want to stop. Make a list and keep going.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Celebrate by visiting one of the 400 management areas across the country. There’s one not far from each of us. There are several ways to get started, too!

The only National Park in Oregon is Crater Lake National Park....

Read about it here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crater_Lake_National_Park

 

And today is also..........

On August 25th, people across the United States observe National Whiskey Sour Day.

Traditionally garnished with half an orange and a maraschino cherry, a whiskey sour is a mixed drink containing whiskey (often bourbon), lemon juice, and sugar. Whiskey sours are shaken then either served straight or over ice.

“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” – Mark Twain

Alternatives to the traditional whiskey sour are the Boston sour and the Ward 8. The Boston sour adds a dash of egg white to the recipe. The Ward 8 uses either a Bourbon or rye whiskey base with both lemon and orange juices and grenadine syrup added for sweetness.

The first mention of a whiskey sour was in an 1870 Wisconsin newspaper.

• After opening, a bottle of whiskey will remain good for five years.
• An unopened bottle of whiskey can be kept for over 100 years and will still be fit to drink.
• Both “Whisky” and “Whiskey” spellings are correct. Whisky is specific to Scotch Whisky, and Whiskey is Irish.
• In 2004, Alabama named Conecuh Ridge Whiskey as its official state spirit.
• According to legend, Jack Daniels ran away at the age of 6 and learned to make whiskey from a Lutheran minister.

 

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL WHISKEY SOUR DAY

Celebrate by enjoying a whiskey sour! Invite a friend to join you. Don’t hesitate to try a twist on the whiskey sour. While you enjoy your cocktail, explore the history of whiskey, its production, and trade. We recommend:

• The documentaries Straight Up and Scotch: The Golden Dram 
• Whiskey Master Class by Lew Bryson
• Whiskey Women: The Untold Story of How Women Saved Bourbon, Scotch and Irish Whiskey by Fred Minnick
• Dead Distillers by Colin Spoelman and David Haskell

(Remember always to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.)