MONDAY MORNING RECIPE POST - THAI COCONUT SOUP

I found this recipe at Crockpot365 hosted by Stephanie O'Dea. It's an old one from my archives as I didn't make anything new this past week. You can find the original here. I checked and the link is still open. It was a good opportunity to use the crockpot, and I like preparing earlier in the day. Stephanie used a 6-quart crockpot. 

Apparently, I didn't take an actual photograph of our finished soup but did take one of the ingredients. There is a photo at the website, link above, so that you can see what it looks like.

Thai Coconut Soup

4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)

1 can coconut milk (if you opt for the light version, you may want to add a drop of coconut extract to boost the flavor - I did not do this as used regular coconut milk)

4 limes (3 juiced and 1 for garnish)

1 sweet red bell pepper, sliced into strips

4 ounces sliced shitake mushrooms, cut into quarters

1 large vine-ripened tomato, or 4 small medium, coarsley chopped 

1/2 pound extra firm tofu, cubed

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 tablespoons fish sauce

1/2 teaspoon to 2 teaspoons red chili paste, to taste (you can use red chili flakes)

1 teaspoon sugar

1-inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated

Although there are several ingredients listed, this soup comes together quickly. 

Pour the broth into the crockpot. Add the juice of three of the limes and zest one lime until you get 1/2 teaspoon to add to the mixture. 

Stir in the sugar and fish sauce. Grate the ginger and add to the mixture.

Stir in the coconut milk. You now have your soup base. 

Add the red chili paste, 1/2 teaspoon at a time, until you have reached the desired heat. I ended up using 1-1/2 teaspoons. You can always add more after cooking, so it's best to add a little at a time to get it to your own taste. You don't have to add anything if you don't like things too spicy. 

Add to the pot the cubed tofu, sliced sweet bell pepper and minced garlic. 

Next, stir in the shitake mushrooms and tomatoes.

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 4 hours.

This soup is finished when it is fully hot and the flavors have combined nicely. 

Garnish with fresh lime slices.

Thai basil leaves would also be a nice addition, or cilantro. 

That's all. As always if you have any questions or your own suggestions, let me know in the comment section.

The full address is below in case you would prefer to copy and paste instead of using the link at the beginning of the recipe.

https://www.ayearofslowcooking.com/2008/09/thai-coconut-soup-crockpot-recipe.html

Thanks for visiting and 

I hope your week is a great one.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

This is a photo I keep on our mantle in the family room of my Mother and me at my Christening in early 1951. Another I have shared before but when I looked at it again, I thought to put it up for Mother’s Day.  I still miss her dearly, always will.

“Half of the world  are women, the other half are their children.”

~Efu Nyaki~

I wish those who are celebrating and remembering their mothers, and also who are celebrating their own motherhood...

A Very Happy Mother's Day. 

Dedicated with love and hugs 

to all the Mothers who made us feel whole.

SATURDAY MORNING AT THE BIRD FEEDER

The birds say, "The woman of the house is letting her imagination fly again." "That it is," she says.

And that's how the cheetahs and birds go on a

Saturday Morning at the Bird Feeder!

Have a great weekend everyone.

For our international friends to use my translation button on my sidebar.

Photo 1:

Hello there! How are you all doing today?

Photo 2:

He has a groaner for you and please don't say I didn't warn you.

Photo 3:

"Why don't catbirds play poker in the jungle. Can you guess? Too many cheetahs."

"Oh boy!"

Photo 4:

"I resent that, don't make me climb up there."

Photo 5:

"Uh-oh, I'm out of here. It's time for me to fly home."

Cheetah and Catbird Graphic:

"All's good, I can take a joke."

"Phew!"

ANN’S MAY CARD

It’s beautiful Ann and always a happy day when one pops into the letterbox.

Thank you so much!

You can visit Ann at Ann’s Snap Edit Scrap here. 

Wishing you and Everyone 

A Very Happy Day.

DRIVING AROUND THE OTHER DAY...

 we found ourselves on a road we rarely frequent. It was like driving along it for the first time. I am always interested in the architecture of the various homes we see and I took a few photos. Some were quite big, some quite small and others falling down. There were a couple of churches.  

It was a pretty blue sky that day as you can see. Below I didn't get the whole building into frame. I changed the settings on my cell phone which made them narrower. I thought I would get more of a panoramic look to my photos but didn't take into account I needed to be further back from places. I took this while driving along on the passenger side and couldn't stop because of the traffic following us. I kept missing bits!

The abandoned places, once someone's dream home, always interest me. I wonder who the people were, when was this built? What kind of lives did their occupants have, happy ones hopefully.

Here is a closer view.

And then we get places like this.

and a very English looking home that could have been near the village I originally came from, except that it would have been an all-white exterior with those black beams.

I had a very enjoyable time looking at all the different places.

This was the last photo. I took others but they came out not so good, blurry, cut off in places. I'm glad I got these as we weren't able to stop once, just kept clicking and I straightened a few.

It is 75°F (24°C) on May 6th, 2026 and a bit rainy but I am happy for the extra warmth. Gregg is with our son. I decided to stay home today. We are going off to Costco tomorrow to look at glass frames. I'm looking forward to that. Yes, I'm excited to go to Costco and I see the humor, but I do like looking around that place. I won't get much further than the eye department. By the time we finish in there I will be glad to get home, which always seems to be the way these days. I am eager to get my corrective lenses though.

I hope you are all having a good week so far, 

and thanks for visiting.

MORE PHOTOS FROM WALNEY POND, FROM OUR VISIT ON 4-21-26

 

This is my favorite spot at the pond. There is a bench under the shade of the trees, and this natural arbor sets the scene beautifully. It's a very restful place even though there is a road you can just see on the other side, that gets quite busy when people are coming home. There are a few other benches around the pond, and I make use of all of them. Each has a nice view across the water.

The red leaf is from a White water-lily, the American white water-lily it is called. Scientific name is Nymphaea odorata. It has quite a few other common names; White water-lily, Fragrant water-lily, Sweet-scented water-lily, Beaver root, Tuberous water-lily, Alligator bonnet, Fragrant white water-lily and Sweet-scented white water-lily. There are many on this pond and when they are in full bloom, are a sight to behold. 

The Pickerelweed is appearing but no blooms yet. If you click on its name, you will be able to see what they look like.

This was the only Yellow flag iris I saw blooming that day. I am looking forward to going back and seeing more. They can bloom from April to August depending on what region they are in. It originated in Western Asia and Northwest Africa and is now considered a highly invasive species in over 40 U.S. states. Not a good plant as pretty as it is. Considered toxic to humans and livestock if ingested, and the sap can cause significant skin irritation or blistering upon contact, so best to wear gloves and long sleeves when handling it. Note to self as I found myself moving a leaf or two so that I could get a clearer view of the flower. Not doing that again and now we know! I didn't know about this particular plant being oblivious until finding out the information for today's post, but I do warn family and friends not to handle any plant when out and about along these paths. I need to take my own advice. I am usually more wary of such things. 

A much better alternative to this Yellow flag iris apparently, is the Blue Flag Iris, which is a stunning native with violet-blue flowers that thrives in the same wet conditions. 

Another bench is calling to me. 

I have a wonderful time looking at all the new growth as I walk the path. In the photo above I tried to showcase the Common greenbrier. It is a native woody vine found throughout the easter half of North America, and ranges from Florida north into southern Ontario and Noa Scotia, and west to Texas and Oklahoma. While often considered a nuisance by hikers and gardeners due to its aggressive growth and sharp thorns, it is a vital part of the local ecosystem. I found much of my information about what I am sharing today online.

This is the Garlic mustard and is not a native plant in North America. It is originally from Europe and parts of Asia and was originally brought to the United States in the 1800s for herbal, medicinal and erosion control purposes. 

I came across the Bush Honeysuckle which is the last plant I took photos of.  I left links on the names for you to learn more if wanted.

The turtles are on a new wooden platform. They seemed to be enjoying the sun.

The last photo taken on that visit was the dog and her companion.

We were already in the car when we saw her, and driving back home shortly afterwards. I daresay we will be going again in a week or so.

OPTHALMOLOGY APPOINTMENT YESTERDAY - MONDAY, MAY 4TH, 2026

Written yesterday: Gregg and I had back-to-back appointments today. An interesting experience as it was the most thorough eye exam I have ever had, even more so than the one 12 months ago. A new place, great eye doctor and the staff were very nice. We will be going back when needed. 

The main reason I went today was that I have been having trouble with an annoying double vision for longer than I care to admit. I have basically been going around with one eye closed and, having trouble walking due to arthritis on top of that, not a good combination. It’s okay if I say, look at my hands close up, but long distance I see two of everything side by side and quite far apart. 

I have to get my driver’s license renewed before my birthday in a couple of months, and finally had to admit this wasn’t going to go away on its own. Driving hasn’t been an issue as Gregg does all of it these days, but I want to keep my hand in. Anyhow, Gregg finally dragged me into the place and said he was getting his done and I was getting mine done, no arguments. No argument from me, I had had enough of this.

Apparently I have an astigmatism (Mao Clinic explanation at this link) but was told this could be corrected using a prism lens on my new glasses, which I will get very soon. I also have slight early stage cataracts but don’t need anything done yet. Gregg too but his are a little more advanced and he will need those taken care of soon. We have been told by several family members and friends that their procedures went perfectly.  

Unfortunately the eye glasses at this place were over-the-top-expensive, so we will be buying those elsewhere. I rather liked the pair in my photos above, especially the ones top left. Very snazzy!

The rest of the day we were at home and we both took a three hour nap. I kept waking up last night, probably thinking about this appointment.

So that’s what we were doing yesterday.  

Thanks for the visit and you all take good care of yourselves.

MONDAY MORNING RECIPE POST - EASY MONGOLIAN BEEF

This is the first time for Mongolian Beef made at home. It had been a real early start to the day. We were both tired but wanted something more substantial than a throw-together meal for the weekend. When browsing for potential recipes, the word I focused on here was ‘easy’. I found it at Kitchen Sanctuary hosted by Nicky Corbishley and the original recipe can be found here. I always recommend visiting because I don’t always share all the useful tips, and there are many other delicious recipes. I will definitely be going back to try more.

From preparation to table it is said to take 25 minutes. It usually takes me a little longer as I am slower, but it is still a fast meal to do. 

It was excellent and we both thought it deserved a 10 out of 10.  

Easy Mongolian Beef - serves 4

5 tablespoons oil (1 use avocado oil)

1-1/2 tablespoons cornstarch (or cornflour depending on what country you are in)

Pinch of salt and black pepper 

14 ounces (400g) sirloin steak sliced into thin strips (visible fat removed)

1 tablespoon grated/minced ginger

3 cloves garlic, finely peeled/minced

1/2 cup (120ml) reduced sodium soy sauce (host uses dark but says all-purpose is fine - she mentioned some brands are saltier than others  (visit her recipe for more info).

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

6 packed tablespoons light brown sugar

1/3 cup (90 ml) water

8 scallions (spring onions), sliced

Steamed rice to serve

Heat the 5 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large frying pan until very hot.

Mix the 1-1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a good pinch of salt and pepper and toss the steak strips in the cornstarch.

Make sure the oil is really hot and cook the steak strips in oil, turning occasionally until very dark and crispy. You can do this in two batches if you need to. We were able to do this in one with our frying pan, the important thing is not to overcrowd.  Cook the steak for 5 minutes before turning. Don't keep moving it around the pan, as you won't achieve that dark, crunchy coating.

Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the pan. Place on a plate lined with kitchen roll, so that any excess fat will be removed.

Pour out all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the pan, turn the heat down to medium and allow the oil to cool a little. Add the 1 tablespoon minced ginger and the 3 minced garlic cloves to the pan and cook for 1 minute. It is important to stir frequently so the garlic will not burn.

Add the 1/2 cup reduce sodium soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 6 packed tablespoons of light brown sugar (Nicky uses muscovado sugar), and the 1/3 cup water.

Thoroughly mix, turn up the heat and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.

Next add the crispy beef back to the wok and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Turn off the heat and stir in the 8 sliced spring onions.

Serve over rice fixed the way you usually do. We had steamed Jasmine rice but use your favorite and cook to package instructions.

Nicky has two recipes for simple boiled rice and also egg fried rice. If you click on their names it will take you to both recipes.

There was a steak in the freezer that needed to be used and it was more than enough for two people. We had not made an Asian meal lately and this one looked very appetizing. We made the recipe without any changes. 

Our side vegetable was quickly sautéed green beans.

We have leftovers for another meal tomorrow.

If you would like to copy and paste the address instead of using the link above, it is below.

https://www.kitchensanctuary.com/mongolian-beef-recipe

Thanks for looking and I wish you all a great week.

HAPPY SUNDAY EVERYONE - ODDS AND BODS IS STARTING WITH VIRGINIA BEAR

Virginia - Good Morning from Virginia

Now that’s about the size of my coffee mug that I like to start my day off. Yes, I am kidding! I don’t want to be wired through to the rest of the week. Only in my dreams, and talking about dreams…

I found this week's dream cottage…

This looks like a good thing to have handy.

How to prune lavender - top left image says “Prune lavender after flowering.”

Top right image says “If not pruned, lavender will become woody. Lavender is a 

short-lived perennial. Bottom left image says “Pruning lavender between late

Summer and Autumn. Bottom right image says “Result”.

I am trying this also. 

DIY means Do It Yourself Pest Spray - Ingredients - 1 cup of water 

10 to 15 drops of Lavender essential oil - A spray bottle

Instructions - Combine water and lavender essential oil in the

spray bottle. Shake well before each use. Spray around

Windows, door frames and baseboards. Lavender naturally 

repels moths, flies and mosquitoes!

and look whose waiting for us around the back…

along with his friend.

We will have a good old natter. 

Did you ever listen to the stories told when people were invited over for tea when you were very young? I am remembering back 70 years ago and have probably told this story before, because that's how it goes when you have been blogging for years and years and years. 

When my parents had friends over, there was always someone who would entertain us. One lady was Mrs. Bissell, who also had the honorary name of Auntie to my sister and me. We loved her and always looked forward to her visits. She was probably as old as I am now, maybe even younger. She hadn't long returned from visiting her brother in the Outback. As we were designated the 'kids', we would always sit on the floor and the grownups, quite rightly so as at this age I don't know even if I could get down on the floor, had dibs on the chairs. I remember being riveted by Mrs. B’s latest adventure in Australia. Later, we usually had a singsong and Dad played the piano. (This was our entertainment. We always had a radio, and my parents bought a TV when I was 13 years old, but we still preferred to read books and play board games, I had coloring books and loved cutting out my paper dolls.) Mum fixed tiny sandwiches with the crusts cut off and brewed endless pots of tea at these gatherings. Mr. Bissell would join Dad in a tot of whiskey. The picture below with the poem reminded me of those days.

That was a perfect house whether you liked food or sleep, or

Story-telling or singing, or a pleasant mixture of them all.

Merely to be there was a cure for weariness, fear and sadness.

~J. R. R. Tolkien~

Come on around, I'll make us a hot drink, or a cold lemonade and a bite to eat, on a warm day (as I sit shivering. It's been a wacky spring). We will also have tea sandwiches with the crusts cut off but I won't make you sing, not today. The weather is warm in my dream, but it has a gentle breeze to cool us down, and we will enjoy telling a tale or two.

We can also take a walk around the garden. It looks very inviting through those gates.

I looked in my wardrobe and picked the perfect dress to wear. I wish this was really in my wardrobe but hey, it is my dream.

We will visit Rowena Robin in her potting shed. 

You never know whom we will come across on our walk back.

But now it’s time for a mug recipe. I never try these things before I add them. One of these days!

Brownie in a Mug - 1/4 cup flour - 1/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons cocoa - Pinch of salt - 2 tablespoons oil

2 tablespoons water - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla.

Mix. Microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Enjoy!

Fun with food?

The crows seem to be out and about. I knew there was a reason I liked crows so much, even if we do call them a Murder of Crows. And yes, they are noisy but...

Did you know? Crows are quite similar to humans and visit

their aging parents many years after they have left the nest.

How about a new word. I love this one.

Ubuntoo - noun - a profound African philosophy that embodies the spirit of 

togetherness; the belief that our humanity is intertwined, and through 

compassion and community, we rise.

Or this one.

Wabi-sabi (wah-bee-sah-bee) - noun - the Japanese appreciation of life’s 

imperfections; finding beauty in the flawed, the aged, and the incomplete, 

and embracing the transient nature of all things,

Nakama - a deep bond beyond just friendship, people who stand together, share

burdens, and support one another like a found family. 

It's time for Kind and Wise Words

"Keep what is worth keeping, and with a

breath of kindness, blow the rest away."

~Dinah M. Craik~

When it doesn't fit in with how you are feeling,

there are times when it is okay to say no. You don't want to hurt anyone's feelings but hopefully they will understand and if they don't, let them move on in peace, kindness and love.

“All that is gold does not glitter. Not all those who wander are lost;

The old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached

by the frost.” - J. R. R. Tolkien

“There will always be someone who can’t see your worth.

Don’t let it be you.” - Mel Robbins

Things I can control: my choices - my boundaries - my behaviors - my thoughts -

my actions - my attitude - my habits - my routines - asking for help - 

how I express myself - how I treat others - how much effort I put forth - 

how I talk to myself - how I treat my body - what I focus on.

Things I cannot control: the past - the future - other people’s opinions -

what other people think or do - the news - the economy - social media -

my age - other people’s mistakes - other people’s words - how other people feel - 

natural disasters or the weather - the passing of time.

And always remember…

In case no-one told you today…you are beautiful, 

You are needed, you are special, you deserve the best,

it’s okay to not always feel strong.

You are loved ❤️ 

Wishing you all a wonderful day,

and thank you for visiting me.

(With my thanks to Pinterest for today’s inspiration.)