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Friday, April 23, 2010

Granny Nannys

Today the sun is shining and spring is bursting out all over. It is a fabulous day to drink in the fresh air and breathe the solitude. I walked to CURVES, enjoying the cardio,and tried to decrease my best time by five minutes--I made it!

There were five other women there working out and no one was talking--unusual since the place is normally buzzing with words of advice and encouragement. This particular group of ladies were my age, so I asked if they were grandmothers. All except one raised their hands and started talking at once. Then, just as I had suspected, all the grandmas said they at least took care of their grandchildren part of the time. I asked, "Do you play, cook, read, or garden with them?"

They all said, "Yes."

I asked, "Are your own off-spring as involved with their children at home as you are when you are caring for them?

One wise lady said, "Of course not. I'm the one that gives full attention to their care when they're with me. I don't have to stop and do the laundry, vacuum, or worry about my job when they're there. I enjoy every minute--this is my second time; I'm going to do it right."

You know she's got a point. You can always worry about mundane house work when they're gone, but who is going to teach them how to make real Macaroni and Cheese, or cookies from scratch? Who's going to turn off the TV and eat a meal at the table?

When they have questions, don't sent them to the net, you are full of wisdom! If you don't know the answer, at least go on the net with them, or do it the old fashioned way and look it up in those encyclopedias you bought 30 years ago. Maybe you will learn something yourself.

The point is let's live a real life, not a virtual life. You have been there, done that, but will your grandchildren experience the real thing? You can see to it--it is your last chance. And to all you parents who work your tail off. Thank God for the Granny Nannys! If you are out of work, thank God that you get to do all these great things with your kids.

Now let's make some "real macaroni and cheese".

Real Macaroni and Cheese Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Cook 12 ounces of macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile mince 4 tablespoons of onion and set aside. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. Add 2 tablespoons flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a sprinkle of pepper. Slowly stir in 2 cups of milk while you stir the sauce. When the macaroni is done to taste, drain but keep in pot. To the pot add: the white sauce, 1 1//2 pound of grated cheddar cheese, (save about a cup for topping) the onion, 2 teaspoons salt, and a little pepper. Pour the macaroni into a buttered casserole dish, top with remaining cheese, and dot with butter. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 more minutes. This should make about 7 or 8 servings. Your kids will be calling their friends over for dinner--at the table!

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