The Power of Being a Woman



There is power in being a woman; even more than we we realize. Author Mckinney Hammond gives not only biblical insight, but straight talk; woman to woman. She puts many things into prospective that we often 

forget, overlook, or take for granted. 

Of the various topics Hammond touches on, these resonated with me the most:

* As a woman, your vulnerability, influence (NOT MANIPULATION) and virtue are strengths. Don't try to hide them or be ashamed. 

*All you have to offer a man is within you. Don't take for granted the talent of homemaking or your feminine touch.

*Your God-given femininity is a gift; you are a force without having to be forceful.

I hope you ladies will pick up a copy, be blessed and revel in the wonderful woman that you really are.

Love,

Neah B

Shrimp and Coconut Lime Soup

This recipe is a new Neah B Original (literally tested in the kitchen today). This soup is inspired by memories of my parents taking my sisters and me to a restaurant called Sukothai back when we were kids. Part of the appetizer came with coconut lime soup with chicken and mushrooms. I wanted to re-create that dish but with my own twist.

Hope You Enjoy,

 Neah B

serves 4-6

shrimp (1 frozen bag and 1/2 cooked, tail-off, and de-vained)

chicken broth (1 32 oz carton)

coconut milk (1 can)

limes (2-juice only)

fish sauce (2 tbs)

Canola or Olive Oil (2-3 tbs)

red bell pepper (1 diced)

garlic (3 cloves minced)

cilantro (small bunch, rinsed. pluck off leaves)

mushrooms (1/2 carton,sliced)

1) Begin by thawing shrimp as per directions on packages.

2)While shrimp is thawing, pour chicken broth, coconut milk and lime juice into large pot and heat on medium high.Whisk together. Pour in fish sauce and whisk together.

3) Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Saute diced peppers, garlic and cilantro for about 10-12 minutes. Add a dash of salt.Then put into soup.

4) Saute mushrooms 2 minutes on each side and put into soup.

5) Rinse and drain shrimp in colander. Saute for no more than 3 minutes. Add a dash of salt. Put shrimp in soup and simmer on low for 8 minutes. ENJOY!

Mom Khai Soup

This is my Dad's favorite soup for my Mom to make.This recipe is my Mother's simple

 twist on traditional Tom Khai Soup.

Enjoy,

Neah B

serves 4-6

chicken broth (1 32 oz carton)

coconut Milk (1 can)

1 tube of lemongrass (1 tsp-can be found in the herb section of the produce aisle)

1 tube of ginger (1 tsp-can be found in the herb section of the produce aisle)

sweet chili sauce (1 tsp)

fish sauce (1-2 tsp to taste)

{Look in the international section of your supermarket or international farmer's market}

canola or olive oil (2-3 Tbs)

cilantro (small handful; rinse and pluck off leaves)

spinach (fresh and rinsed; about a handful)

mushrooms (half a carton, sliced)

chicken (2 cups diced chicken breast or 2 cans chicken breast)

salt (a dash)

TIP: It doesn't happen often, however if you buy a can of coconut milk and it appears solid and it is not past its expiration date, it is fine! After a little research, I found that the fat of coconut milk sometimes rises to the top.So just stir it and proceed in making your dish!

1) Pour chicken broth and coconut milk into stockpot (or large pot) over medium-high heat.Whisk together.

2) Pour in lemongrass,ginger,sweet chili sauce and fish sauce.Whisk together.

3) Heat skillet with oil over medium heat.Saute cilantro and spinach for about 3 minutes and put into soup.

4) Saute chicken for about 2-3 minutes. Add a dash of salt and put chicken into soup.

5) Let soup simmer on medium-low heat for about 8 minutes.Serve with fresh,crunchy spring rolls or alone in your favorite bowl.

Cheer Up!

Ever have one of those days? I did today...What's done is done. So......

CHEER UP AND SHAKE IT OFF!

Ann Miller (one of my favorite taptresses) in "Shakin' the Blues Away" from Easter Parade (1948)

Judy Garland singing "It Never Rains But What It Pours" from one of my favorite films

Love Finds Andy Hardy (1938).Most appropriate for today.

Fred Astaire in "Shine on Your Shoes" from The Band Wagon (1953).

As it goes in the song,"...a little bit of polish will abolish what's botherin' you!"

Judy Garland in "Get Happy" from Summer Stock (1950)

Dick Van Dyke and Janet Leigh in "Put on A Happy Face" from Bye Bye Birdie (1963)

Remember no matter what, all is well.

Love,

Neah B

Vintage Back-To-School-Flicks: Daddy Long Legs (1955)

 This film is filled with wonderful dance numbers and ballets. This number "Slewfoot" has to be my favorite; It's so fun to watch and the tune is will get stuck in your head!

This is my 2nd favorite musical starring Leslie Caron. Daddy Long Legs is a Back- to- School film wrapped in romantic-musical packaging. It's the story of Jervis Pendleton (Fred Astaire); a wealthy millionaire who travels to Paris, France on business. Unfortunately, his company car becomes a "stick in the mud" (literally). While seeking help, he stumbles into an orphanage where his eyes are opened to the young and lovely Julie Andre (Leslie Caron) who not only teaches there, but is an orphan there herself.

Jervis becomes so enchanted by her that he speaks to the American Ambassador about adopting her. However,she is 18 years old and he is a seasoned bachelor;This would not look good on his behalf nor the state department. So, he then sets up a scholarship to sponsor her, provide for her and send her to Walton College...anonomously. Julie so deperately wants to thank him, but he leaves so quickly that he only gets aglimpse of his shadow(making him look very tall-hence the name "Daddy Long Legs") As she excels in her new American-Colllege life, she pusues meeting and one day living with her Daddy Long Legs.

Things to Love about this film:

*The wonderful renditions of Johnny Mercer's tunes "Dream" and "Somethin's Gotta Give"

*Leslie Caron's Stunning Wardrobe!!!!

*The dream sequences/ballets: They show off Leslie's and Fred's gracefull talent for ballet. The sets and color are also gorgeous. A few of my favorite dream sequences are the Texas Tycoon, Guardian Angel and Hong Kong Cafe.

Enjoy!

Neah B

Vintage Back-To-School- Flicks: The Bachelor and the Bobby Soxer (1947)

Not only one of my favorite scenes but definitely one of the funniest! Cary Grant creates magic by combining his charm and smooth flow of humor! And for my vintage fashionistas, you will love the 40's frocks worn by both Myrna Loy and Shirley Temple. My favorite of Shirley's is in this scene complete with a-line skirt, peasant blouse and bandana-tied headband.

Teenage love can be difficult especially when your protective, older sister's a judge! Susan Turner( Shirley Temple) is a bright, beautiful, and sophisticated 17 year old. Like most girls her age, she too is looking for her "knight in shining armor" (beyond her boyfriend Jerry). Susan finds this grand stature of a man in Richard Nugent (Cary Grant); a handsome painter (with a playboy reputation) giving an art lecture in her high school auditorium. 

Unfortunately, Susan's dream bubble is burst when her sister Margret Turner (Myrna Loy), a judge, is totally against it. Susan is determined to be one of Richard's art models, however her plans backfire and land Mr. Nugent in jail. His sentence (given by Judge Margret,of course): TO DATE SUSAN UNTIL SHE IS NO LONGER SMITTEN WITH HIM!You will be sure to enjoy this fun  comedy and the unexpected turn of romance. You will also enjoy Shirley Temple as a lovely young lady.

* Be sure to check it out at www.TCM.com  and www.Amazon.com

Roll Film,

Neah B

Style Me Vintage:Hair:Easy Step by Step Technique for Creating Classic Hairstyles

This retro book is one that needs to be in every vintage vixen's repertoire! Even if you never use any of the hair recipes, it makes a great coffee table book.The pictures are gorgeous! They not only give step by step instructions and pictures of stunning results but they feature the original starlets with the classic do's along with today's celebrities sporting them as well.

For instance, for examples of Finger Waves, they show side by side comparisons of Marlene Dietrich and Christina Aguilera. For the Bouffant, they show Jackie Kennedy and Joan from AMC's Mad Men.Enjoy these vintage do's and add this to your collection! Check it out on http://www.amazon.com/.

* The author Belinda Hay is also the founder of The Painted Lady; a hair salon specializing in vintage (and contemporary) do's and cuts.Check her at http://www.thepaintedladylondon.com/

Inside the Jewlery Box

The jewelry box sitting on your vanity may be adorned with lace, pearls or satin. Its beautiful to look at and houses your favorite accessories. But what good would it be if  it didn't have any jewels within? It serves us no purpose if it doesn't hold anything pretty inside.

Remember ladies: You can be a showstopper like Marilyn day in and day out. But if you don't have the  heart (like June Allyson or Judy Garland) or the brains (like Lauren Bacall or Jane Russell) or even the class of Audrey Hepburn, your pretty packaging does you no good.

"Like a gold ring in a pigs snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion."

Proverbs 11:22

So ladies...

BE KIND- A kindhearted woman gains respect,but ruthless men gain only wealth

Proverbs 11:16

BE SMART- She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

Proverbs 31:26

BE VIRTUOUS- A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.

Proverbs 12:4

BE STRONG- She is clothed with strength and dignity : she can laugh at the days to come.

Proverbs 31:25

"The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode  but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul.It is the caring that she lovingly shows.The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years

-Audrey Hepburn

Love ,

Neah B

Autumn Bliss

It's been so gorgeous, I've just been in this mode lately....

Early Autumn by the New York Voices

Autumn in New York by Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald

Foggy Day by Dakota Staton

Tenderly by Rosemary Clooney

When Harry Met Sally....(1989)

Thanks to my mom, this has become one of my favorite movies...ever. It's gotten to the point that I feel I've watched it more than she has (and that's saying alot!).

I love Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, The soundtrack (which is sooo worth checking out and a good listen). I also love watching this from September-January because its has some of the beautiful shots of Autumn in New York and wonderful holiday scenes. Love it!

I know you'll probably watch the whole clip but, fast forward to 7:53 and watch this absolutely beautiful Fall scene.

Vintage Back-To- School Flicks : Girl Crazy (1943)

One of my favorite songs (and scenes) of this film, Could You Use Me?

Also home to one of the cutest, non-repulsive pick-up lines:

"Has anyone ever told you that you have a face like a two week vacation...with pay?"

-Mickey Rooney as Danny Churchill

Danny Churchill Jr. (Mickey Rooney), a prominent publisher's son, is New York's fun loving ladies man with time and money to burn. However,when his nightclub escapades make the headlines, his father is not thrilled. Danny Churchill Sr. is determined to rid his son of his "girl craziness" and irresponsibility by sending him to Cody College; an all male institution who hadn't had a female co-ed since the civil war!

Danny quickly realizes its much wilder out west than back east; waking up at the crack of dawn,wild stallions, and being the target of many pranks by his cowboy co-eds. He also comes to the harsh reality that not every woman falls flat at his feet.Ginger (Judy Garland), the college mail carrier and dean's daughter, is not impressed with Danny's playboy tactics that he uses with the rest of the female population . But after a few bumps in the road, Danny manages to become a campus hero and win Ginger's heart.

You are sure to enjoy:

*The many classic Gershwin tunes such as Bidin' my time, Embraceable You, But not for me, and I Got Rhythm.

* I Got Rhythm finale with Tommy Dorsey and his Orchestra and awesome dance number by none other than Busby Berkley.

*The comedic wisecrack Nancy Walker and "Rags" Ragland.

AN OVERALL WONDERFUL MOVIE!

Bidin' my Time... often gets stuck in my head!

PS: Be sure to check TCM.com for the next showing of this movie or check out Amazon.com!

Vintage Back-To-School Flicks: Strike Up the Band (1940)

My FAVORITE song and dance number of this film, The La Conga.

Jimmy Connors (Mickey Rooney) is destined for success. Although his mother would rather him follow his father's footsteps and become a doctor, Jimmy knows he could make his mark on the world by being a sensational musician and bandleader. He soon gets the chance to prove to his mother and all of Riverwood High School that he's got what it takes. With the help of his faithful friend (and admirer) Mary Holden (Judy Garland), Jimmy turns their school's sad, struggling band into a swingin' dance orchestra.

After much progress, the opportunity to work with Paul Whiteman, one of the top band leaders of the day, comes knocking on their drums. However, an unexpected stint arrives when they must sacrifice the funds they saved for the contest in Chicago to help a bandmate in desperate need. But as the old adage goes,"a good deed does not go unrewarded". Because of their kindness and loyalty, they are able to travel to Chicago on a patron's dime and get the opportunity to put Riverwood High School on the map.

You are sure to enjoy:

*The many talents of Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney , and the rest of their gifted cast and their ability to put on a fantastic show.

*My favorite number, The La Conga along with Drummer Boy.

*The Gershwin tunes songs such as Nobody and Roger Edens' Love Affair.

Strike Up the Band is in the top 2 of my favorite Garland/Rooney films (that aren't in the Andy Hardy series; which I truly love).It is sure to be a favorite of yours as well.So check it out and STRIKE UP THE BAND!

Fearlessly Feminine

" I enjoy being a girl" from the movie The Flower Drum Song (1961)

Hello Ladies,

Today's Wednesday Wisdom, has to do with relishing in the fact that  you are a female.As women, our strength is on the inside. In fact, in the Greek language, it is defined as " strength under control".( The Power of Being a Woman by Michelle McKinney Hammond, 2004). Embrace your femininity and don't be afraid to display it outwardly in your appearance. Be beautiful, soft, and delicate. I know we are always on the run and must be comfortable and prepared for anything, however never forget to:

*Slide on your favorite shade of lipstick or gloss and blow those sweet kisses.

*Slick on your favorite mascara and bat those lashes proudly!

* Spray on your signature perfume and let your glorious scent waft into the breeze.

* Fill your head with glamorous curls and waves from time to time.

*Find that dress or skirt that tastefully flatters your unique figure and stop traffic!

*Step into those heels and strut!(or even cute sneakers or flats with curve hugging jeans).

Now I know that we all have our own unique tastes, but the point is whatever is undeniably feminine DON'T BE ASHAMED TO DO IT!

Love,

Neah B

"How lovely to be a woman" from the movie Bye Bye Birdie (1963)

"I'm definitely a woman and I enjoy it"

-Marilyn Monroe

"I don't mind living in a man's world as long as I can be a woman in it."

-Marilyn Monroe

Neah's sausage,leek,and potato soup

This recipe is an inspiration of a few things. I enjoy a good leek and potato soup. I also love Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana with sausage, potatoes, and greens. So, I decided to combine these 2 concepts and make this soup. I was also inspired by Barefoot Contessa's Roasted Potato and Fennel Soup recipe to use red potatoes. I hope that you enjoy this warm and hearty soup.
Love,
Neah B

(serves 6-8)

red potatoes (1  3lb bag, unpeeled)

olive oil (3 Tbs)

salt (1 Tsp, to taste)

leeks (2 whole)

garlic (4 cloves)

Italian sausage links (1 pack)

water

sour cream (1/2 cup)

oregano (2 Tbs)

1. Rinse all potatoes in a colander getting off as much dirt as possible.Slice each potato in half.Then slice each half into fours.

2. Put potatoes in the largest pot you have and pour enough water to totally cover potatoes. Put in a dash of salt and drop of oil and cook potatoes on high until boiling. Boil for about 20 minutes until tender.

3.While potatoes are boiling, rinse leeks thoroughly(inside leaves also).Slice down both leeks and set aside.

4. Dice garlic and set with leeks.

5.Heat saute pan with olive oil on medium heat.saute garlics and leeks for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally.

6. Set sausage links on top of leeks and garlic and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes.

7. Uncover pan with sausage and leeks. Using tongs or a fork, place sausages on a cutting board.

8. Check to see that potatoes are tender enough to smash. Smash with a wooden spoon/potato masher

(It doesn't have to be perfect. You can leave it slightly chunky).Turn down to medium heat.

9. Pour leeks and garlic into the potatoes and stir.

10. Using a fork and knife, slice all sausage links ( making sure they're no longer pink inside) and pour into the pot of potatoes.
* If still a little pink on the inside,put a little oil in the pan and saute the sausage for a few minutes. Then pour into the pot of potatoes.

11. Put water and sour cream into the same pot that the leeks and sausage were in. Whisk together and pour into potatoes. Sprinkle in oregano and stir all together.Salt to taste and enjoy.

 

Neah's Simple Shrimp Bisque

It is yet again Tuesday, and I have two more warm and cozy soup creations to

share with yall.This one is my new favorite to make; it's not totally from scratch but just as delicious.

Hope you enjoy!

Love,

Neah B

 

(serves 4-6)

• bag of shrimp (cooked,peeled,devained,tail-off.)
• * If you don't get tail-off, you know what to do.
•  
• Campbell's Cream of Shrimp soup (2 cans)
• carton of half and half (1 cup/ half  a can)
• paprika(1 Tbs)
• dried parsley (1-2 Tbs, to your liking)
• garlic powder (1 1/2 Tbs)
• olive oil (2 Tbs)
• salt (1 tsp)

1. Thaw shrimp according to directions for about 7-8 minutes.
2. While shrimp is thawing, heat cream of shrimp soup in medium-sized pot on medium-low heat.
3. When both soup cans are emptied, fill one with half and half.Fill the other halfway with water.
4. Pour both cans into soup.
5. Sprinkle in paprika,parsley,garlic powder and whisk together.Turn soup on low.
6. Heat skillet with oil.
7. Drain shrimp in colander.
8. Place  shrimp in skillet and saute for about 3 minutes. Pour into soup. Stir and serve.

Serve with garlic toast or garlic cheddar biscuits and a great salad.

Ramblin wreck from GA Tech...

Before they were TV stars...

For my Classic Jacket Fans!!!

Be the ball...

From the 1953 movie I Love Melvin, Debbie Reynolds is featured in this Football Ballet.

Enjoy College Fans!

Pass it on...

One of the best dance numbers ever... "Pass that Peace Pipe" from Good News

Vintage Back-To-School Flicks: Too Many Girls (1940)

Too Many Girls (based on the musical play by George Marion Jr.) tells the story of Clint Kelly (Richard Carlson) and Manuelito Lynch (Desi Arnaz) who work at The Hunted Stag; a hotel owned by Clint's Aunt.They are 2 college kids who plan to play football at Princeton University; that is until buddies JoJo Jordan ( Eddie Bracken) and Al Tewiliger (Hal Leroy) from rival schools Yale and Harvard try to convince them otherwise.

Lo and behold, rich tycoon Harvey Casey drops by The Hunted Stag in need of a bodyguard to keep tabs on his lovely daughter Connie (Lucille Ball). Plans suddenly change for the quick-witted quarterbacks when they are offered the job. After getting an eyeful of Connie, they quickly accept.They soon become campus heroes at Pottawatomie University when they are able to pay off the University's debts and reopen the school. They also provide points on the scoreboard and breathe oxygen into their dying football squad.

You  are sure to enjoy:

• the score by music and lyric masters Rogers and Hart with tunes like 'Cause We Got Cake, Your Nearer, and (my favorite) Look Out-which all college football and Frances Langford fans will enjoy.

• my favorite dance number, Spic and Spanish; which features rapid-fire tap dancing from a young Ann Miller and Hal Leroy's Bill "Bojangles" Robinson-esque tap stylings.

Go back to school, this fall with the film that first brought Lucy and Desi together;Too Many Girls.

Roll Film,

Neah B

P.S. If you like it be sure to puschase on Amazon!

Vinatge Back- to- School Flicks: Good News (1947)

Featuring the song Pass that Peace Pipe

" Have you heard the good news?"

MGM's beautiful, technicolor college romp Good News is one of my absolute favorite films.This tale of Tait College takes place in 1927; an era of Sheiks(attractive guys), Flappers(modern girls of the 20's), and early Jazz.

Football hero ,Tommy Marlowe (played by the handsome Peter Lawford) and the rest of the campus are turned upside down when Black- Briar- Finishing- School -transfer student Pat Maclellen( Patricia Marshall) enters the scene. Although she grabs Tommy's attention, she wants nothing to do with him; she is only interested in a man's "wealth... of culture". In order to impress her,Tommy's determined to learn French. He then seeks the assistance of the bright and lovely student librarian, Connie Lane ( played by raspy-voiced sweetheart June Allyson). Before he knows it, he has fallen in love with his tutor! An unexpected turn in the story comes when Pat takes a sudden interest in Tommy who then becomes torn between the two girls. 

Along with a fun and engaging story,this colliegiate classic includes:

• infectious musical numbers such as Lucky in Love, Ladies Man( Walk Collegiate),Pass that Peace Pipe, and The Varsity Drag.
• exploding talent with firecracker Joan McCracken, smooth Mel Torme, and sweet and funny Ray McDonald.
• awsome costume that melds the trends of the 1920's and 1940's; everything from baggy slacks and drop-waist dresses to Letterman sweaters,cardigans, and signature 1940's wavy coifs and curls.

This film is so much fun from top to bottom, you will be cheering,

"T-A-I-T,  T-A-I-T, T-A-I-T, TAIT! HOORAY!"

Enjoy,

Neah B

P.S. You can find it on Amazon.com and TCM.com

GO GA TECH!!!

In honor of The GA Tech Yellow Jackets:

1. Beating Maryland
2. Being 6-0 so far this season
3. Becoming bowl eligible because of these victories....

My 1st 2 vintage back- to- school flicks will deal with college football!!

Many Cheers,

Neah B

Tips from Classic Beauties

(photo courtesy of www.roboceleb.com)

" For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness;

and poise,walk with the knowledge that you are never alone."

- Audrey Hepburn

" Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman."

-Coco Chanel

" I don't understand how a woman can leave the house without fixing herself up a little- if only out of politeness.And then, you never know,maybe that's the day she has a date with destiny.And it's always best to be as pretty as possible for destiny."

-Coco Chanel

"I don't know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot."

-Marilyn Monroe

Stay Lovely Ladies,

Neah B

Be Virtuous

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.

Proverbs 31:10

"In Hebrew, the word "virtuous" literally means "excellence", while the word "virtue" means "force". You, as a woman, never have to demand respect-just be excellent.No one can argue with excellence.Excellence is a force because excellence demands respect.A woman of excellence is a force to be reckoned with." -Michelle Mckinney Hammond The Power of being a Woman (2004)

Ladies, I know that through the daily grind of work, caring for husbands, families,and just everyday activties, sometimes we forget that we are queens;that we are excellent. Our days and circumstances become so demanding that we feel we must be too. We as women are made with a gentle (which is not a synonym for weak;don't get it twisted), feminine spirit and inner strength balancing out a man's outer strength.So if we are to just be excellent, you will have no choice but to be respected.

Love,

Neah B

Neah's Chili

This recipe is also a Neah B creation. It was inspired by many my mom's

chili recipe, but with a  few additions of my (garlic,chorizo, and mushroom).

I hope you enjoy this warm and tasty treat.

Love,

Neah B

(serves 6-8)

• Canola/olive oil (4 tbs)
• cumin (2 tbs)
• chili powder (2 tbs)
• salt (1 tbs)
• cilantro ( 1/4 a bunch)
• white/yellow onion (1/2 an onion)
• garlic (4-6 cloves)
• red bell pepper (1 pepper)
• yellow bell pepper (1 pepper)
• portobello mushrooms ( 2 packages,sliced)
• diced tomatoes (1 can)
• pinto  beans (1 can)
• light red kidney beans (1 can)
• hot sauce (1/4 cup of your favorite brand)
• salt (start with 1 tsp; add according to your taste)

• TIP: Because its a lot of mushrooms, you may need to do them in batches. It is a very watery vegetable and if there are too many of them, you will have watery mushrooms.This is also why you don't rinse them (especially when you are working with whole mushrooms that you are going to slice) Wipe them off with paper towel!(Thanks Aunt Melanie)
• So remember,"DON'T CROWD THE MUSHROOMS!"- from the movie Julie & Julia

1. Heat 2 tbs of oil in a stock pot (or the biggest pot you have) on medium-low heat.
2. Finely chop onions,garlic,and peppers.
3. Place all chopped vegetables into heated oil and saute for about 15 minutes stirring occasionally. Add 2 pinches of salt. 
4. Heat a large pan and 2 more tbs of oil and begin to saute the ground turkey and chorizo occasionally stirring until no longer pink (about 15min/while your veggies in your soup pot are cooking).While your meat is cooking, add the cumin, chili powder, and salt.Cover.
5. Heat skillet or saute pan and the other 2 tbs of oil.
6. Rinse the cilantro and pat dry.Tear off the leaves and put it in the pan
7. Saute mushrooms in the same pan as cilantro; about 2 minutes each side and place into the pot with peppers,onions, and garlic.
8. Once all mushrooms/cilantro are in the pot, open your cans of diced tomatoes,kidney beans, and pinto beans and pour them in the pot. Stir together.
9. Next, pour in meat and hot sauce.
10. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes more.
11. Serve in a bowl by itself or atop corn bread or brown rice

Vegetarian Chili

Today's recipe is a Neah B original.This recipe came about while doing the

Daniel's fast.Although there's no meat allowed, I wanted something good and

hearty;so this chili recipe was born. And now that the weather is getting cooler, I hope you enjoy.

Love,

Neah B

(Serves 4-6 hearty bowls)

• Canola/olive oil (4 tbs)
• white/yellow onion (1/2 an onion)
• garlic (4-6 cloves)
• red bell pepper (1 pepper)
• yellow bell pepper (1 pepper)
• portobello mushrooms ( 2 packages,sliced)
• diced tomatoes (1 can)
• chili  beans (1 can)
• light red kidney beans (1 can)
• hot sauce (1/4 cup of your favorite brand)
• cumin (optional-1 tbs)
• salt (start with 1 tsp; add according to your taste)

• TIP: Because its a lot of mushrooms, you may need to do them in batches. It is a very watery vegetable and if there are too many of them, you will have watery mushrooms.This is also why you don't rinse them (especially when you are working with whole mushrooms that you are going to slice) Wipe them off with paper towel!(Thanks Aunt Melanie)
• So remember,"DON'T CROWD THE MUSHROOMS!"- from the movie Julie & Julia

1. Heat 2 tbs of oil in a stock pot (or the biggest pot you have) on medium-low heat.
2. Finely chop onions,garlic,and peppers.
3. place all chopped vegetables into heated oil and saute for about 15 minutes stirring occasionally. Add 2 pinches of salt. 
4. Heat skillet or saute pan and the other 2 tbs of oil.
5. Saute mushrooms about 2 minutes each side and place into the pot with peppers,onion, and garlic.
6. Once all mushrooms are in the pot, open your cans of diced tomatoes,kidney beans, and chili beans and pour them in the pot. Stir together.
7. Next, pour in hot sauce.
8. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes more.
9. Serve in a bowl by itself or atop corn casserole or brown rice.

Fly Me To The Moon

            One of my favorite versions of this song!

Come Fly With Me

Ultra Lounge:Jet Set Swingers

I am absolutely in LOVE with the Ultra Lounge series(and have yet to collect them all!)

The one to check out(since I'm on this whole Pan Am tip) is Ultra Lounge:Jet Set Swingers;

a collection of hip jazz vocals and swingin sounds about travel. A definite must have for your collection.

Some of my favorites on this album:

• Lets Fly Away-Jeri Southern
• A Foggy Day-Dakota Staton
• The Charming Mademoiselle From Paris,France-Lou Busch
• Island in the West Indies-Judy Garland
• A Little Travelin' Music-Susan Barrett

You can preview and purchase through:

http://www.ultralounge.com/

(photo courtesy of Amazon.com)

Retro Reels: Three Guys Named Mike (1951)

                                                  (print courtesy of http://www.imbd.com/)
                                               
 In honor of ABC's new series Pan Am,I recommend checking out the film Three Guys named Mike. The movie peers into the life of an American Airlines stewardess named Marcy (played by Jane Wyman) as she navigates the highs and lows of "making a home in the air" for passengers aboard.She meets great friends along the way as well as 3 handsome suitors; ALL NAMED MIKE! Howard Keel, Van Johnson, and Barry Sullivan all play her prospective lovers, but only one Mike can win Marcy's heart.An enjoyable  film about love in flight(literally).This is also one of the rare films that doesn't feature Howard Keels brilliant baritone singing voice! Enjoy your flight!

You can check it out on:

• Amazon(Instant video or purchase dvd)
• Check http://www.turnerclassicmovies.com/ for next showing
• Netflix
• Internet Archives(this information courtesy of http://www.imbd.com/)

Pan Am: Get on Board!

(print courtesy of www.getgoretro.com)

For all of my retro culture/fashion enthusiasts, be sure to check out(if you haven't already)

ABC's hit series, Pan Am. This period piece takes place during swingin' 1963 chronicling the high flyin' escapades of stewardesses Kate, Laura, Maggie, and Colette serving Pan American flights. Enjoy the intermingling, juicy stories and historical moments included(example: The Bay of Pigs Invasion).And yes, You will love the early 60's fashion( those famous blue Pan Am suits and bags!),hair, and music.I have enjoyed what I've seen so far early in the season.I do hope that this 60's time capsule of a show is successful as AMC's Mad Men.

Love,

Neah B

P.S. Be sure to get a Pan Am Bag of your own! Check out http://www.getgoretro.com/PanAm_Brands/Bags.htm

and choose from a variety of Pan Am Messenger bags,handbags, and even luggage for your own Pan American flight.