My brother-in-law, Shaun Vahl, loves to cook, and he loves to try new things. He also tries some crazy things. During the summer months, do not be surprised if his dishes contain beer, which he might have brewed at home. In the winter, cream cheese is a favorite ingredient of his. Today, I want to highlight perhaps the craziest cooking method he has ever sprung on the family: Trash Can Turkey. The first time he made it, I was shocked. Trash can turkey? For real? Yes, for real. I do not … [Read more...]
It’s Beginning to Sound a Lot Like Christmas
My husband, Bobby, and I don't have any children. We have four cats and one dog. (If you've even read my blog just a little bit, you will have met Owney, our dog. He's a regular guest writer for Wendi's Weekend Trips and Whatnot.) I say that to let you know that I've never experienced the staying up most of the night to assemble this or that toy. I've never been awaken from sleep during the wee hours of the morning to see what Santa left under the tree. I've never had to listen to an obnoxious … [Read more...]
Remembering The Last Full Measure of Devotion
The last time I attended a Memorial Day Ceremony in my hometown of Lodi, Ohio, was probably when I was in High School marching band. That would have been over 30 years ago. I don't remember what I thought or felt at that time. I probably was hot and tired from marching up Bank Street with a trombone. I can almost guarantee that I didn't really understand the magnitude of what we were doing or who we were honoring. Fast forward 30 plus years and thanks to the addition of social media, I … [Read more...]
Owney Says Baths are for the Birds!
I love going to Lodi to visit my Border Collie cousins, Parker and Admiral Nelson. My dad, Bobby, calls us the black and white brotherhood. My Uncle Shaun is the best, too. I really enjoy just hanging out with him, either on the couch or on the deck. Whenever I see him, I have to jump all over him to show how excited I am to be there. My Aunt Randi is great, too. That is until she decides to take me to her basement. It is there where the torture takes place. In case you don't know, Aunt … [Read more...]
Behind the Scenes: Happy Howlidays
My sister, Randi, and her husband, Shaun, are what I would call competitive. If there is a contest or competition that can be joined, they join. It is no different when it comes to the Lodi Christmas Decorating Contest. Last year they came in third place. This year it is a no holds barred effort. One in which I got to lend hand. They went from this: To this on Thursday: After lunch on Thanksgiving and once our parents, niece and great nephews left, Randi began pulling out box … [Read more...]