I Have A Dreamsicle

Yesterday was a day to be proud to be an American – no matter if you’re Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, Independent or a member of the Green Party. The peaceful transitions of power (or continuations of service) that take place on inauguration days are something truly admirable and marvelous. Since the founding of this country, there have been no coups d’états – no violent overthrows. I think a lot of people have focused on the rancor and strife that exists during presidential campaigns, but I think the entire election/inauguration process is worthy of our respect.

And so as we made our way toward the Inauguration Day festivities, my heart swelled with pride. People of all races and political parties had come out to celebrate the occasion and cheer on our elected leaders.

We had amazing seats – right up front! And I got full-on eye contact from the President and First Lady!

But you might be wondering about the last five letters of this post title. I wasn’t trying to be irreverent, but this was the only way I could think of blending into my next mini-topic of the day. . . .

As of last night some seriously frigid, arctic air has blasted into the region. Thank goodness it didn’t come yesterday! We would have never made it through the parade! This sudden weather change brought with it some of the driest air imaginable. All of our hair was sticking out like a science experiment, and my hands looked 20 years older than the rest of me. We needed moisture STAT! A humidifier would do just fine in a situation like this, but I employed a special recipe of mine to get the job done.

I filled a pot about 3/4 full with water, and added four naval orange peels and a few tablespoons of vanilla. (It does not need to be alcohol free – I just keep this on hand to make snow ice cream, and I’ll post the recipe if it ever snows!) The oranges went into a plastic bag in the fridge, ready to be juiced in the morning.

Then you just let your aromatic concoction boil on the stove! Once in a while add another couple cups of water (and possible another tablespoon of vanilla), and you can keep this simmering all afternoon. It makes the air nice and moist, and it smells amazing. My hair and skin are already thanking me!

Have you ever made an aromatic simmer pot? What is your recipe of choice? I’ve heard that in William Sonoma stores they use lemon slices, rosemary sprigs and vanilla. Ooh la la!

Stay warm friends!

xoxo,
CA

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