Nimrod

While running errands the other day I heard a piece of music that has become my new classical favorite. It was so beautiful that I had to stay in the car in the parking lot for several moments after the piece ended just to reluctantly come back down to earth.

Nimrod (from the Enigma Variations)
by Edward Elgar

Read-Aloud Family Books

Our family is really looking forward to getting this book, The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma. It is book three in a wonderful series by Trenton Lee Stewart.

Other books our family has enjoyed reading aloud include:

The Westing Game
Chasing Vermeer
Summer of the Monkeys
Where the Red Fern Grows
The Hobbit
City of Ember (more fun if you haven't seen the movie)
Hound of the Baskervilles
Chronicles of Narnia
Mysterious Benedict Society (1 and 2)
Harry Potter
The Penderwicks
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh

We are always looking for suggestions, so let us know if you've found a good one.

Brighton

I've never seen Quaking Aspen so red

Homemade Macaroni-Philly Cheesesteak Style

A yummy version of homemade macaroni can be made using provolone cheese instead of cheddar. Saute a chopped onion in a little olive oil until carmalized. Add chopped deli-sliced roast beef and heat through. Mix with cooked macaroni (or other pasta) and a white sauce that has provolone melted into it. Season with salt, pepper and parsley.