WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 2010

Today is "Hump Day". Affectionately called this because it marks the middle of the week - a symbol to all that the end of the week is in sight! For employers and employees, this is like a 'second wind' to allow the best work to continue, knowing there is the reward of a weekend without the office, the commute, the meetings, the deadlines, endless phone calls, emails, conferences (face-to-face, web, or phone), and late night work to do. Weekend. It emits an unique feeling just by saying it out loud. It brings forth memories of stress-free time spent doing what is loved, needed with family and friends. Special times. Special places. Relaxation, time clearing the mind and regaining perspectives. Spring is here. Many have "spring fever" and must participate in outdoor activities, feeling the warmth of the sun, smelling the fragrances of cut grass and blooming flowers, and enjoying playing in the dirt! In the Southeast, especially the SC coast, the next five days will be fantastic - sunshine, pleasant temperatures, no rain, and not yet tourist season. Of course, there will be college kids on Spring Break and families spending Easter on the beautiful beaches; however, this makes the time here even better. Sharing in the fun, the memories being made, getting caught up with old friends and making new ones, and experiencing the joy of Easter in such a beautiful setting. So... If you can, come to the beaches of SC and make a memory. There is light at the end of the tunnel... a weekend to regroup. In addition, a celebration of Jesus' resurrection after death on the cross for our sins, giving each of us life everlasting with our Lord and Saviour! Hallelujah! Remember, "Y'all come back soon, ya' hear!"

Hump Day...

is on Wednesday. Add to that the wintry weather, and all workers look forward to making it to "Hump Day" because it is downhill to the weekend! Everyone calls Wednesday "Hump Day", but does anyone know what caused the 'label'? Wednesday is the third day of the week and ls between Tuesday and Thursday with three days in front and three days behind, thus it's 'hump day'. This is an American-English idiom, a reference, as expressed earlier, to making it through to the middle of the 'work week' as getting 'over the hump.' And, for this week, each of you made it - over the hump! Which makes this Thursday and us much closer to the 'weekend.' The weather is cold and brisk today in SC. Once again tonight the temperature will drop into the low twenties. For all outside activities, bundle up and enjoy the sunshine! On Sunday, it might rain - get the outside 'stuff' finished before Sunday. Sunday will be a good day to start off in Church, comfort food for lunch and a good book snuggled in front of the fire, or watching a good movie with the family in the comfort of your home. Another choice could be getting ready for the big day - SUPER BOWL SUNDAY! This year it falls on February 6Th. Plan your snacks, get them from the store and be sure your guest list is complete. Keep it simple, the focus will be on the game, so finger foods are a must. Here are two recipes for your consideration: BLOODY MARY MIX for a CROWD 3 qt tomato juice 1 tsp Pickapeppa Sauce* 1/4 c Worcestershire Sauce 3 tsp sugar 1 1/2 T fresh lime juice Salt to taste 3 c vodka small celery ribs In a gallon container, mix together all ingredients, except vodka. Refrigerate until chilled. Add vodka and stir well; adjust seasoning. Server cold in chilled glasses without ice. * Pickapeppa Sauce is Jamaican and is found in supermarkets, near the ketchup and steak sauces. Makes about 1 gallon MARINATED SHRIMP 2 lb. jumbo or large, boiled 2 red onions, sliced 1 red or green bell pepper, sliced 1/4 c chopped fresh tarragon 1 T capers 2 1/21 c olive oil Dash of Tabasco Salt and black pepper to taste Peel and de-vein shrimp, boiled Place shrimp in a bowl with onions, peppers, tarragon, and capers. Place oil, vinegar and Tabasco in a jar and secure lid. Shake vigorously until well blended. Pour oil and vinegar mixture over the rest of the ingredients and toss well. Salt and pepper to taste. Marinate for 4 hours or overnight. 12 to 24 shrimp per pound Remember, enjoy the weekend, but "y'all come back, real soon ya' hear! Still Sexy at Sixty...