Cooking Thursday

We had a potluck last week at work, for someone who is leaving.  Those potlucks are always full of good food!  There was a pasta salad that everyone loved, which was made by my fellow nurse, Larisa.  I got the recipe from her because I was going to bring a salad to a family event on Friday.  It was a hit there too.  Even Bob who is usually suspicious of anything with broccoli in it, really liked it.  I think you will too!

Broccoli Bacon Pasta Salad

3 cups mayonnaise
3/4 cup sugar
5 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 box rotini pasta
1 head broccoli
1 small red onion, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped

Stir together mayonnaise, sugar and red wine vinegar.  Place into refrigerator to cool.
Cook pasta as directed on package, drain and rinse with cool water.
Cut broccoli florets from stems and separate into small pieces.
Stir broccoli, onion, bacon and cheese together.  Add pasta, then stir in mayonnaise mix.
Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Wordless Wednesday

Memories...

When I was packing my things for our  recent trip, I pulled out something I use whenever we go away and thought I should take some pictures and share it with you.

This jewelry pouch is so perfect for traveling!

Here it is open, so you can see all the little partitions along the sides.  I can fit earring or even some necklaces in those spots.  It doesn't take up much space, but it keeps jewelry from getting tangled up.
I would use it just because of that, but it is special to me for another reason.  It was made by one of my former residents.  She passed away almost 3 years ago.  When I knew her she already had been dealing with Dementia for some time, but in her younger days she was very talented in making things like this or other crafts.  I also have a hanger she covered and a glass bead angel for my Christmas tree.  She was a character and is someone I would not forget, but every time I use one of these things, I especially remember her and it always makes me smile.