The Ballad of James J.

     I've completely abandoned my scary story writing. After sitting in front of a blank screen for months, I can't get anywhere further than page one. I'm moving forward with the tale of James J, who shall remain last name free for now. James J a sign-spinner. Where did he come from? Why is he a sign-spinner? Why does he always smell like Crayons? What will happen to him in the future? I almost want to throw in a sci-fi element. Well now that I've typed out "sci-fi", I don't like that idea at all.
     This feels more like me. It's better to do what you know, than delve into something you aren't familiar with.

     Trying to find something to spark the creative part of my mind. I have a few ideas I'm working with. So far it involves stamps and letters and elf earrings. Writing in my planner has been productive and gratifying, especially since I'm finally able to mark off completed tasks. Paper journaling will come next, as well as live blooooging (hold up monocle to one's eye) updates. I think writing and drawing will keep me from thinking about the "what if's & should have's" that have been clogging up my mind. "Idle hands", if you will.

     My love for cooking has not dimished. I've come leaps and bounds, considering six years ago, I could have burned water.

Rosemary, Lemon Chicken, Potatoes & Mushrooms.

Oven to 400F.

Set red potatoes to boil for ten minutes.

In a small bowl mix:

1/4 olive oil

Juice from 3 lemon halves

2 garlic cloves, crushed

Salt

Pepper

Dried rosemary

Arrange chicken legs, potatoes, sliced mushrooms into oven pan.

Cut potatoes into halves, place in pan.

Drizzle oil mix over everything.

Place fresh rosemary on top of dish.

Bake for 1 hr (or when chicken hits 165F)

Enjoy with a white wine.