So, Tuesday was my birthday. I am now a whole 34 years-old. Yes, that means I will be old enough to run for President in 2012! But don't worry, I won't. Besides, pocket lint and a few pennies isn't much of a campaign fund. However, my birthday cake was great. Tres Leches, with Dulce de Leche filling. Yummy!!!
Seriously, I have been feeling a little bit old lately. It's not so much my birthday; it's looking at what other accomplished by my age. I'm pretty sure the German playwright, Buckner, had achieved famed and died by age 34 (don't quote me on that though). And there is the guy in the news who was arrested for lying to the FBI and suspected of being part of a terrorist plot. 24 and he's suspected of possibly being a mastermind. To top it off, He can grow a full beard. I still can't!!! (Note to the DHS: SARCASM!!!! I do not idolize, support, or romanticize terrorist, nor do I condone terrorism. I do however support water-boarding and punching terrorists in the head).
Well, enough wallowing in self pity. I need to bake some more bread.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Danish Country Crust Bread
Last week, I said I would post the recipe for Country Crust Bread. So, Here it is. Sorry about the delay.
Before I start, this is how I now make the bread using my KitchenAid. There will be notes on hand mixing. Hand mixed bread is much denser, .
Ingredients:
2 cups warm/hot water
1/2 cup sugar (I sometimes replace the sugar with honey)
1-2 Tbsp honey
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup oil
2 eggs
2 Tbsp or 2 packages of dry yeast
6 1/2 to 7 1/2 cups flour (I usually use unbleached but a half and half blend of Hungarian Whole wheat and Unbleached flours works well).
The recipe makes two loaves of bread.
Mix water, sugar, honey, salt, oil, and eggs on speed 6 or so until eggs are well beaten (1). Add yeast and mix. And 3 cups of flour and mix at speed 2 with the dough hook until smooth. Slowly add the rest of the flour and continue to mix on speed 2 until dough pulls away from the bowl. Cover and let the dough rise (about 45 minutes, when the dough has doubled in size).
Knead the dough for 2 minutes at speed 2 with the dough hook (2). Divide the dough in half, and roll the ends of each half under. Then place each loaf in a greased bread pan. Bake at 375F for 35 minutes.
The Country Crust Bread is great for French Toast, ham and cheese sandwiches, or eating with butter and apricot preserves. The heels are the most delicious to with preserves or eat plain.
Hand Making Notes:
(1) Beat the eggs prior to mixing with the rest of the ingredients.
(2) Hand mixing and kneading requires a lot of effort and time. Expect to knead the dough by hand for at least 5 minutes and as noted earlier, the bread will be dense, not light and fluffy.
Before I start, this is how I now make the bread using my KitchenAid. There will be notes on hand mixing. Hand mixed bread is much denser, .
Ingredients:
2 cups warm/hot water
1/2 cup sugar (I sometimes replace the sugar with honey)
1-2 Tbsp honey
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup oil
2 eggs
2 Tbsp or 2 packages of dry yeast
6 1/2 to 7 1/2 cups flour (I usually use unbleached but a half and half blend of Hungarian Whole wheat and Unbleached flours works well).
The recipe makes two loaves of bread.
Mix water, sugar, honey, salt, oil, and eggs on speed 6 or so until eggs are well beaten (1). Add yeast and mix. And 3 cups of flour and mix at speed 2 with the dough hook until smooth. Slowly add the rest of the flour and continue to mix on speed 2 until dough pulls away from the bowl. Cover and let the dough rise (about 45 minutes, when the dough has doubled in size).
Knead the dough for 2 minutes at speed 2 with the dough hook (2). Divide the dough in half, and roll the ends of each half under. Then place each loaf in a greased bread pan. Bake at 375F for 35 minutes.
The Country Crust Bread is great for French Toast, ham and cheese sandwiches, or eating with butter and apricot preserves. The heels are the most delicious to with preserves or eat plain.
Hand Making Notes:
(1) Beat the eggs prior to mixing with the rest of the ingredients.
(2) Hand mixing and kneading requires a lot of effort and time. Expect to knead the dough by hand for at least 5 minutes and as noted earlier, the bread will be dense, not light and fluffy.
Friday, September 11, 2009
What Does Today Mean to You?
It's September 11, 2009. It is the eighth anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. I think that 9/11/01 will be remembered for some time, the same as December 6, 1941. The news media has been talking about the anniversary, and the History Channel has been showing documentaries. People will remember this year and I'm they will next year. So, what does it all mean to you? How did you change that day and those days that followed?
My mind set changed that day. As I arrived at school that day (I was teaching back then), braking news came over the radio that the first tower had been hit by an airplane. I turned off my car, and walked inside, thinking that it had been a terrible accident and not knowing about the second plane. My first hour class was oblivious to the attack, but my second hour class watch the replay in their first our class. For the rest of the day, the students were frightened and worried that they might be next. The freshman especially seemed immune to all logic that they were safe. Our town was in the middle of nowhere, and being the home of an international sheepdog trial never made it a target for terrorists. Even so, I started to realize that our security as a nation was something that I took for granted. I also started to think seriously about joining the military in the days and weeks that followed.
As far as security goes, my view was shattered. I knew we had enemies, but who would dare attack us on our own soil? I grew up in the time of Ronald Reagan; no one would mess with the USA, at least not at home. That all changed that day. I realized that my students no longer had the sense of security that I grew up with. I also started to see that I had taken my country for granted. Patriotism swelled in my heart and mind. I wanted to serve my country, and help make the world a better place. I joined the Army, in large part, because of those feelings.
So, what about today? What are we doing to serve our country today? Many of my buddies are still serving in the military; at least one of them is back in Iraq now with the National Guard. Do we truly honor and support these men and women? Do we vote? Voting is not just a right, I feel that it is an obligation. If we don't vote, we are not heard and the government does not need to answer to us (We, the People). Do we get involved in state and local politics? I really have not, but I need to and so do you. Do we provide service to our community? Help out at schools? Participate in services through religious or civic organizations? Pick up litter and throw it away? Whatever it is, do something to better your community, and don't do it just today or tomorrow. Do it on a regular basis.
And ask yourself, "What does today mean to me?" everyday.
-Phil
My mind set changed that day. As I arrived at school that day (I was teaching back then), braking news came over the radio that the first tower had been hit by an airplane. I turned off my car, and walked inside, thinking that it had been a terrible accident and not knowing about the second plane. My first hour class was oblivious to the attack, but my second hour class watch the replay in their first our class. For the rest of the day, the students were frightened and worried that they might be next. The freshman especially seemed immune to all logic that they were safe. Our town was in the middle of nowhere, and being the home of an international sheepdog trial never made it a target for terrorists. Even so, I started to realize that our security as a nation was something that I took for granted. I also started to think seriously about joining the military in the days and weeks that followed.
As far as security goes, my view was shattered. I knew we had enemies, but who would dare attack us on our own soil? I grew up in the time of Ronald Reagan; no one would mess with the USA, at least not at home. That all changed that day. I realized that my students no longer had the sense of security that I grew up with. I also started to see that I had taken my country for granted. Patriotism swelled in my heart and mind. I wanted to serve my country, and help make the world a better place. I joined the Army, in large part, because of those feelings.
So, what about today? What are we doing to serve our country today? Many of my buddies are still serving in the military; at least one of them is back in Iraq now with the National Guard. Do we truly honor and support these men and women? Do we vote? Voting is not just a right, I feel that it is an obligation. If we don't vote, we are not heard and the government does not need to answer to us (We, the People). Do we get involved in state and local politics? I really have not, but I need to and so do you. Do we provide service to our community? Help out at schools? Participate in services through religious or civic organizations? Pick up litter and throw it away? Whatever it is, do something to better your community, and don't do it just today or tomorrow. Do it on a regular basis.
And ask yourself, "What does today mean to me?" everyday.
-Phil
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Moore Capitalism
Last night while watching TV, I saw a trailer for the new Michael Moore movie, "Capitalism: A Love Story." In the trailer, Mr. Moore is laughably trying to make a citizens arrest of AIG executive and retrieve 10 billion dollars of TARP money from Wall Street. The man obviously knows that his farcical behavior is over the top and uncalled for. So why does he do it? Making a point or making a buck? Both, maybe? I really don't know, but his films make a lot of money.
It seems interest that Mr. Moore states that, "Capitalism is Evil" right on his website (http://www.michaelmoore.com/), and yet he is obviously making money off of his films. Now, it has been said by some that Mr. Moore is trying to bring about a revolution. I don't know if this is true or not, but it seems funny that any one so contrarian would try to topple the government of the only country one is able to rail against the government as vocally as we can.
Now back to the movie. The title seems a little from the subject of the film. The TARP bailouts were not a capitalistic move. Such action falls more in line with the Socialist or Fascist way of doing business. So, why is Moore complaining? It seems that his theses is that Wall Street has bought Washington (the same Washington that is controlled by his Democrat friends?), and in turn Washington has paid Wall Street back with billions in TARP money. Yet, Washington has tried to buckle down on Wall Street. I still don't see the capitalism.
Finally, Mr. Moore, I would like you to make a film about fighting the number one health problem in America today, OBESITY! Call it "Sicko II: The Battle Against The Bulge." I think I would enjoy you twisted, satirical sense of humor as you hit the weights and the stair-stepper. You could also show how the donated money you save from cutting your portions help other people. You might motivate people to get healthy and donate their own time and money.
It seems interest that Mr. Moore states that, "Capitalism is Evil" right on his website (http://www.michaelmoore.com/), and yet he is obviously making money off of his films. Now, it has been said by some that Mr. Moore is trying to bring about a revolution. I don't know if this is true or not, but it seems funny that any one so contrarian would try to topple the government of the only country one is able to rail against the government as vocally as we can.
Now back to the movie. The title seems a little from the subject of the film. The TARP bailouts were not a capitalistic move. Such action falls more in line with the Socialist or Fascist way of doing business. So, why is Moore complaining? It seems that his theses is that Wall Street has bought Washington (the same Washington that is controlled by his Democrat friends?), and in turn Washington has paid Wall Street back with billions in TARP money. Yet, Washington has tried to buckle down on Wall Street. I still don't see the capitalism.
Finally, Mr. Moore, I would like you to make a film about fighting the number one health problem in America today, OBESITY! Call it "Sicko II: The Battle Against The Bulge." I think I would enjoy you twisted, satirical sense of humor as you hit the weights and the stair-stepper. You could also show how the donated money you save from cutting your portions help other people. You might motivate people to get healthy and donate their own time and money.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
President's Address to School Children
This morning, I watch Pres. Obama's address to the American school children. With all of the hoopla surrounding the speech, I wanted to see what he would say. I have to say that I disagree with many, if not most, of the President's views and I am not a fan; however, he is the legally elected President of the United States. I may or may not like him, but I respect his position as President.
That being said, I liked the address. The message basically boiled down to do your best, work hard at school, focus and keep trying if you don't succeed the first time. Having taught school prior to enlisting, I know that there are a vast number of students that needed to hear the message. As a parent, I would recommend watching the address with your school-aged children (watch it on YouTube).
As far as the hoopla, I can understand it. I feel that the address itself was not the issue. The real issue that started the controversy was the teaching aides that the Department of Education (DoE)released to go along with the speech. I don't want my child pledging allegiance to any President nor anything other then God and the United States of America. When we were in Texas, my son's class recited a pledge of allegiance to the state of Texas. I refused to let my son participate. That is just the way I see it. Also, I don't want my son helping Mr. Obama further his agenda, at least not until he (my son) is an adult. Some one in the DoE did not think things through when preparing the packet. If the packet did not exist or had not originally contained such material, it would have been hard to take issue with the President's address. After all, I remember seeing Pres. Reagan's anti-drug address as a child. I also think that letting children see such events strengthens their civic-mindedness. Taking a thought from my former First Sergeant, some one should find the guy who put that stuff in and (figuratively) "PUNCH HIM IN THE HEAD!!!" (I don't condone actually punching any one in the head).
-Phil
That being said, I liked the address. The message basically boiled down to do your best, work hard at school, focus and keep trying if you don't succeed the first time. Having taught school prior to enlisting, I know that there are a vast number of students that needed to hear the message. As a parent, I would recommend watching the address with your school-aged children (watch it on YouTube).
As far as the hoopla, I can understand it. I feel that the address itself was not the issue. The real issue that started the controversy was the teaching aides that the Department of Education (DoE)released to go along with the speech. I don't want my child pledging allegiance to any President nor anything other then God and the United States of America. When we were in Texas, my son's class recited a pledge of allegiance to the state of Texas. I refused to let my son participate. That is just the way I see it. Also, I don't want my son helping Mr. Obama further his agenda, at least not until he (my son) is an adult. Some one in the DoE did not think things through when preparing the packet. If the packet did not exist or had not originally contained such material, it would have been hard to take issue with the President's address. After all, I remember seeing Pres. Reagan's anti-drug address as a child. I also think that letting children see such events strengthens their civic-mindedness. Taking a thought from my former First Sergeant, some one should find the guy who put that stuff in and (figuratively) "PUNCH HIM IN THE HEAD!!!" (I don't condone actually punching any one in the head).
-Phil
Catching Up
I took a little time off from the blog, but this entry will catch things up.
Workout: I put up 280lbs on bench yesterday, but only got six reps. I'll probably try 285lbs next week. I'm getting there.
The Bike: I've got a lot of the paint and rust off of the frame. I still need to work on the forks and other painted parts.
Life: Well, I'm still unemployed (after about a year and a half it is no real surprise). We did get a KitchenAid last week. It make bread baking and other kitchen activities so much easier. For years, I have been making a slightly sweet Country Crust Bread (I'll post the recipe later). With hand kneading, the bread turns out rather dense with a wonderfully thick and tasty crust. Using the KitchenAid, I made two light, fluffy loaves with the same wonderful crust. The bread made amazing french toast, and good ham and cheese sandwiches (I do prefer the denser bread for ham and cheese). My pretzels also turned out so much better.
Final word on the KitchenAid: Hand kneading is a great forearm workout, but the baked goods produced using the KitchenAid turn out better. I'll have to find a different way to punish my forearms.
-Phil
Workout: I put up 280lbs on bench yesterday, but only got six reps. I'll probably try 285lbs next week. I'm getting there.
The Bike: I've got a lot of the paint and rust off of the frame. I still need to work on the forks and other painted parts.
Life: Well, I'm still unemployed (after about a year and a half it is no real surprise). We did get a KitchenAid last week. It make bread baking and other kitchen activities so much easier. For years, I have been making a slightly sweet Country Crust Bread (I'll post the recipe later). With hand kneading, the bread turns out rather dense with a wonderfully thick and tasty crust. Using the KitchenAid, I made two light, fluffy loaves with the same wonderful crust. The bread made amazing french toast, and good ham and cheese sandwiches (I do prefer the denser bread for ham and cheese). My pretzels also turned out so much better.
Final word on the KitchenAid: Hand kneading is a great forearm workout, but the baked goods produced using the KitchenAid turn out better. I'll have to find a different way to punish my forearms.
-Phil
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Don't worry about it? My VA Disability
A short time ago, I mentioned that I am having difficult with the VA. Simple put, some one in the bureaucracy miss place the form that initiated my claim. After being told on several occasions not to worry about it, I received a letter informing me that was about to loose my disability of 0%.
0%? No big deal right? Wrong. 0% gets my foot in the door. The VA will take care of me at a discounted price with 0%. Also, if I do not have a disability of 0%, I can not make an appeal for greater compensation. And my knees are bad. The VA orthopedic specialist told me that I should not do any lifting from a squatting position and I should avoid running. (My leg workouts consist of leg curls and extensions and easy stuff like that. I highly doubt that I could squat 200lbs now and if I did try, my knees would be killing me for a week or so afterwords). Sounds like more than 0% to me, but what do I know.
Well, the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is coming to my rescue. It seems that things should be cleared up soon. (I'm keeping my fingers crossed).
I want to say some things to every Military Service Member, especially those getting ready to ETS (separate from the Military). First, put in your VA claim, even if you are perfectly healthy and not broken. Second, make a copy of your claim form (VA Form 21-526) and keep it in your files. If I had made a copy, I would not be having this problem. And to all of the Vets out there, when the people at the VA 1-800 number say. "Don't worry about it," WORRY about it, and contact the DAV or your other Recognized Service Organization.
0%? No big deal right? Wrong. 0% gets my foot in the door. The VA will take care of me at a discounted price with 0%. Also, if I do not have a disability of 0%, I can not make an appeal for greater compensation. And my knees are bad. The VA orthopedic specialist told me that I should not do any lifting from a squatting position and I should avoid running. (My leg workouts consist of leg curls and extensions and easy stuff like that. I highly doubt that I could squat 200lbs now and if I did try, my knees would be killing me for a week or so afterwords). Sounds like more than 0% to me, but what do I know.
Well, the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is coming to my rescue. It seems that things should be cleared up soon. (I'm keeping my fingers crossed).
I want to say some things to every Military Service Member, especially those getting ready to ETS (separate from the Military). First, put in your VA claim, even if you are perfectly healthy and not broken. Second, make a copy of your claim form (VA Form 21-526) and keep it in your files. If I had made a copy, I would not be having this problem. And to all of the Vets out there, when the people at the VA 1-800 number say. "Don't worry about it," WORRY about it, and contact the DAV or your other Recognized Service Organization.
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