Need help in the Garden

As you know I'm going to participate in a Mystery Blog tour this summer. So every week I'll have a guest. That way you won't get bored with me. Some of them will be doing their own posts. But others I'll be interviewing. And with so many of them (12) I'm running out of fresh questions.

As readers, or other authors, what questions or question would you like to ask an author? What type of things do you want to know about the person. Do you only want to hear about them as a writer? Or do you like to hear more personal questions asked?

Please leave a comment with some questions I can ask my guests to keep things interesting.

Thanks I appreciate any help you can give me!

Good Monday Morning

I've had a similar recipe to this, but nothing wrong with changing things up I say. Keeps things interesting.

I can't believe it's March. We had a blizzard last Friday, what is up with that? I want spring!

Okay back to recipes. This recipe would also be great with a bit of Shrimp.

Sausage and Tomato Pasta 4 / 1 cup servings
2 Sausage Links sliced
2 Tomatoes chopped (seeded)
2 cloves garlic chopped
1 Jalapeño chopped (seeded optional)
1/2 medium onion chopped
1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive oil
1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
1 tsp. Basil
1/2 tsp. Savory
1/4 tsp Tarragon
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Cook sausage in a pan sprayed with oil, until almost done. Add chopped vegetables and sautee. Grind spices together and stir into oil and vinegar. Add to sausage and vegetables. Simmer while pasta cooks, drain and add meat and vegetables and mix thoroughly. Serve with salad and a Cabernet

1 cup Serving Calories 438, Fat 23g, Saturated Fat 5g, Cholesterol 22mg, Sodium 500mg, Carbohydrate 50g, dietary fiber 8g, sugars 4g, protein 14g. Vitamin A 11%, Vitamin C 18%, Calcium 31% and Iron 12%

Enjoy

Cajun spice in the Garden

If you like spice then you'll love this! But you can tone it down, it's really up to you. I forgot to take the picture, so after I put everything away I remembered. I pulled the storage container out and dumped it in a bowl for the pictures. (So pretend it's over rice)

Cajun Shrimp Etouffee  4 servings
1/2 lb. Shrimp
2 cans Rotel Diced Tomatoes (for extra spice use 1 original and 1 hot habanero's)
1 medium onion - diced
2 stalks of celery sliced
1/2 cup green bell peppers
1/2 cup red bell peppers
1 bunch (1/4 cup) green onions chopped
1/4 cup flour
1 tbsp butter
1/2 cup water
2 cloves garlic chopped
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black ground pepper
1/4 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp Thyme
1/4 tsp coriander
1 tsp Basil
1/2 tsp white pepper

Place Crockpot to high add butter and flour. Prepare vegetables, once they are all chopped, check on the butter. It should be starting to melt. Use fork or whip to make a paste with the flour. Open both cans and port the juice in only and whip until smooth. Then add tomatoes and all the vegetables and water. Grind together spices and then mix into mixture. Cover and leave on high for 2 hours. Turn to low and add shrimp and cook another 2-3 hours on low.

Serving (Approx. 1 1/2 cups) Calories 140, Fat 1g, Saturated fat 1g, Cholesterol 95mg, Sodium 1119mg, Carbohydrate 16g, Dietary fiber 3g, sugars 6g, and Protein 14g.

Serve over rice, very yummy. Goes well with a Riesling.

Upcoming on Wednesdays in the Garden

I'm going on Blog Tour again! And as a bonus I a new guest every week for 12 weeks. Here is the schedule of who will be visiting the Garden, and the dates.

Week #1, May 25 – Marja MaGraw

Week #2, June 1 – Jean Henry Mead

Week #3, June 9 – Marilyn Meredith 

Week #4, June 15 – Carol Shenold

Week #5, June 22 – Regan Taylor

Week #6, June 29 – Jennifer DiCamillo

Week #7, July 6 – Vivian Zabel

Week #8, July 13 – Anne K. Albert 

Week #9, July 20 – Beth Anderson

Week #10, July 27 – Pat Browning

Week #11, August 3 – Sharon Ervin

Week #12, August 10 – Jackie King

Shortly I'll be adding the schedule of where I will be each week and it will stay on the side of my blog through the tour. 

Thanks everyone! We have some fun stuff. Check back Friday for a recipe of Shrimp Etouffee.

What do you have in your fridge?

Yesterday morning, I'm trying to figure out what to make for dinner. You know, looking in the freezer for meat to thaw,etc. Then I realize 'oh man, I have left over sausage from the other day I need to cook.' I ponder on what to use it for, and ruffle through the veggie bins and find the butternut squash I still needed to cook. I love butternut squash bisque, but with sausage? Mmmm... But you know me, I like to experiment so I did. And I can't believe it turned out, spicy but very good. It wouldn't be posted if it was a disaster!

Butternut Squash and Sausage Bisque 8 / 1 cup servings
2 Butternut squash (about 1.5 lbs combined)
1/2 lb ground sausage (hot or sweet--your preference)
1 cup half and half (fat free)
1 can Chicken low sodium fat free broth
3 tbsp. Land of Lakes light butter w/Canola oil
2 cloves garlic - minced
1/2 medium onion chopped finely
1 jalapeño pepper chopped (seeds optional)
1/2 cup red wine (white wine would work also)
1/4 tsp. Ground Allspice
1/4 tsp. Ground Nutmeg
1/4 Tsp. Ground ginger
1/4 Tsp. Ground Pepper
1/4 tsp salt.
Brown sausage and crumble. Chop onion, pepper and garlic. Add sausage, chopped veggies and broth to Crockpot and put on high. Microwave squash (cut in half wrap in plastic wrap) about 10 to 15 minutes on high, turning half way through. Or until tender. Let cool. Scrape squash from peel into a bowl, add butter and half and half then mash. When thoroughly mashed, scoop half of the mixture into blender and puree and then pour and mix into Crockpot. Then the other half and add. Mix in spices and turn to low for 4 hours. Serve with rolls.

1 cup servings - Calories 209, Fat 10g, Saturated fat 3g, Cholesterol 19mg, Sodium 525mg, Carbohydrate 21g, Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 6g, Protein 8g, Vitamin A 348%, Vitamin C 41%, Calcium 11% and Iron 6%.

It's very filling, 1 cup is plenty, but if you do want a little more I'd go with 1 1/2 cups. That's what I had and I was stuffed. The wine I had was a combination A South African white, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay, perfect pairing. The web site is 'coming soon' but at least you can see the label.

Let me know how you like it!

Poblano Peppers in the garden!

So St. Patty's is over so I'm on to whatever recipes again. Here's another fun breakfast casserole, though we had it for dinner. And it paired well with a white sweet wine.

Pepper and Egg bake (4 servings)
2 Poblano Peppers sliced down the middle (seeded)
1 1/2 cup frozen shredded hash browns
1/2 lb crumbled hot ground sausage (raw)
1 cup fresh salsa 
6 eggs, whipped --salt and pepper to taste
1 cup Pepper Cheese shredded
In a 5 x 8 loaf pan spray with oil. Lay out the peppers on the bottom. Layer ingredients as listed above. Back in the oven at 400 for one hour, or until sausage is done.

423 Calories per serving, Fat 26g, Saturated Fat 12g, Cholesterol 337mg, Sodium 933mg, Carbohydrate 21g, Dietary Fiber 2g, Sugars 3g, Protein 24g,  Vitamin A 15 %, Vitamin C 99%, Calcium 16% and Iron 4%

This turned out better than I thought it would. It's also on the spicy side.

Enjoy!

Writing day in the Garden

I've started a new project. It's something I need to research and make sure I have my format correct, etc. I'm nervous and excited at the same time. Are you that way when you start something new?

I'm going to convert one of my manuscripts into a screenplay. I took some classes at a conference I attended recently. I may have mentioned it in an earlier post. My mind isn't what it used to be. Anyway I've picked up some reference books, and I've also downloaded some helpful software.

Now I need to force myself to find the time to work. But when I'm nervous and unsure of what I'm doing I tend to throw self made roadblocks in my way.

I know the golden rule is: Write every day! Even if it's only a sentence. However, that is easy to say, but when you work full time and enjoy helping with the grandkids, it's easy to put that sentence off.

A friend of mine who knows what my new project is, has sent me some information on the equivalent of NaNoWriMo for screenplays. Script Frenzy. I'm hoping that it will jump start my motivation. So instead of letting the project scare the bejeebe's out of me, I'm confident and can have fun doing it. Anyone want to join me? My user name is Marygoesawriting, please be my writing buddy.

So do you ever find yourself throwing self imposed roadblocks? If so what advice can you give me? Anyone come up with any magical tricks? I know I'm not the only one who has these problems.

Scentsy in the Garden

If you haven't heard of it, you're asking 'What is Scentsy?' I'll tell you what it is. Scentsy is a product line of warmers and scents. They make your house feel homey!  Here is Scentsy's story:


Scentsy began with a simple idea—a safe, wickless alternative to scented candles—and quickly grew into one of the most successful direct selling companies. This wickless concept was born when two stay-at-home moms began selling decorative warmers designed to melt scented wax with the heat of a light bulb instead of a traditional wick and flame. Read more...


My daughter has decided to become a Scentsy Representative. And because the Garden is all about relaxing and enjoyment I've agreed to do a 'online' garden Scentsy party. And you're All invited.


The only drawback is you can't smell the scents from the Garden. As you browse close your eyes and use your imagination. The Jumpin' Jelly Bean (scent of the month) is exactly how it sounds.


Here are few warmers:
Warmer of the month: Dotty’s sunny yellow glossy finish and white polka dots are bright and cheerful. The ruffled warmer dish adds a frilly accent like the trumpet on a daffodil. ($3.00 off)

Patriot Warmers:

Team Spirit Warmers

In time for Easter! Scentsy Buddy
Sweet and soft, Lenny the Lamb is 5.5” wide, 9.5” tall when seated, and 15.5” tall from head to toe. He comes alive with fragrance when you place a Scent Pak in the zippered pocket in his back.

To check out product or to order from Mary's online garden party Click Here! The party will be open for orders through March 31, 2011.


You can have it shipped to your home, just follow the instructions. I have a warmer in almost every room, I love them! Thank you!

Boxty Monday

Still doing the Irish. Today is Boxty day. What is that? Well if you're Irish you know. It's a potato pancake. FYI, if you mix the batter up ahead of time and then refrigerate until ready to make them the top layer will turn dark. But it mixes up and lightens up. LOL.

Boxty 6 servings
6 potatoes 3 peeled and grated 3 boiled, drained and mashed
1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup Half n Half Fat free
2 Tbsp. Light Butter w/canola oil
1 egg
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Tarragon
1/2 tsp Rosemary
1 tsp Basil
Mash the potatoes together with Half n half. Drain excess water off the grated potato and add to the mixture, then gradually stir in all ingredients. Heat Griddle and pour six equal portions like pancakes and cook and brown on both sides. Serve with butter or sour cream.

1 pancake 164 Calories, Fat 2g, Saturated Fat 1g, Cholesterol 37mg, Sodium 156 mg, Carbohydrate 31g, Dietary Fiber 2g, Sugars 2g, Protein 5g. Vitamin A 3%, Vitamin C 45%, Calcium 3% and Iron 7%

Another way to serve is wrapping the Boxty over a filling, meat or vegetables or stew. I served them folded over Irish Stew.

Enjoy!

Irish Stew the Martinez way

I can't believe I forgot that it was also Mardi Gras time. So after St. Patty's day I'm going to share some of my favorite New Orleans style cooking. I just need to figure out what and how to make it.

Today though I'm going to share my newest recipe. Irish Stew, done my way. Right now the house has the pleasant aroma of beef and whiskey. Yup you heard right! I apologize in advance, this is not one of my lower calorie dinners. One you'll need to have only occasionally and when you plan the rest of the day. Eat Light!

Irish Stew Serving 1.5 cups
1 lb beef (cubed)
1/4 Medium onion cut into chunks
4 medium carrots cut into larger chunks
8 medium potatoes quartered w/peel
2 cloves garlic
2 medium tomatoes cut into chunks
1 stalk celery large slices
1 tbsp olive oil
8 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
3 cups Irish Whiskey
1 Can Beef Broth 98% fat free and MSG free
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp savory
1 1/2 tsp Thyme 1 1/2 tsp sage

Add all vegetables and meat to slow cooker. Add Whiskey, broth and Worcestershire and oil and mix thoroughly. Grind together spices/herbs and mix in. Cook on High for 4 hours and low for 2. Serve with rolls and salad.

Serving 1 1/2 cups
728 Calories, Fat 14g, Saturated Fat 5g, Cholesterol 57mg, Sodium 812 mg, Total Carbohydrate 47g, Dietary Fiber 5g, Sugars 5g, Protein 32g. Vitamin A 162%, Vitamin C 83%, Calcium 7% and Iron 29%.

I have another recipe comping up on how to use the left over stew.

Enjoy!

Research never ends

So you're done with a book or screenplay. All the research is over correct? Nope, not by a long shot. Now comes the long process of what to do. Do you know how to do a query letter or a synopsis? Do you know which agents represent the genre you write?

This post is about how to find and/or research what to do next. Not everything, that would be one long post. But links and ideas I have used. First thing you need to do is compose a query and synopsis. I have a friend who does some awesome workshops on both. Her name is Sherry Lewis--Dancing On Coals online workshops. Check out her Facebook also.

But there's a lot of other information available also. Do a search for how to 'write a query' or how to 'write a synopsis' you'll find a list of resources. But your best place is your bookstore. I love Borders and am very saddened to have them close in my area. However, because they are, all of their reference books are 30 to 50% off. If you are near one, check it out.

Next, your novel or screenplay is polished and so is your query and synopsis. Now what? You're ready to submit.

If you belong to a writing organization they probably have a wonderful agent/editor page on their web site. Romance Writers of America (you need to be a member) has a very detailed list. Most likely many others do also. If you have a screenplay you need to register it with the Writers Guild of America. (There is a east and a west, be sure and register with the correct one for you.)

But you don't belong to anything because you can't afford it, so now what? You're still doing your research, so where do you go? You can go to the library, a bookstore to the reference section. Look for 2011 A Guide to  Book Publishers, Editors and literary agents. Or something close to that. Also here are a few links I recommend for more information: (all these are taken from a worksheet I have from a PRO class given by Stanalei Fletcher.)

Agent Query, it's free you log in and search for who represents the genre you write. Also if they accept emails, etc.

Book Publishing Central  This explains itself.

There are many more out there. As I said if you search you will find!

A lot of publishers do not accept submissions from un-agented authors, so do your research on those also. Check their web sites. It sounds like a daunting task I know, and it can be. A friend of mine, KyAnn Waters, has started a blog on what publishers are looking for. http://publisherpressrelease.blogspot.com/ This is a very new blog, but as she hears back from publishers she'll post it. Here are a few other publisher links that I have.
Carina Press Submissions Guidelines
Writing Guidelines for Harlequin
Sourcebooks Submissions Guidelines

Another bit of research I recommend is once you are considering an agent or and editor, check them out. Go to this site and you can check out both, and if the publisher or agency isn't listed you can email and ask.
P&E: Literary Agents.

Now you have your book and/or screenplay submitted, now you sit back and wait, right? WRONG. Now you start building your brand. The best way for this is with a web site, or a blog used as one. There is a great article in the RWR  this month (March 2011) called D.I.Y. Marketing on page 38 and 39. Check it out. Lots of great information.

Also, if you have anything to promote on your trip to publication or you just sold your book. Yahoo groups are a great place. BUT it can also be confusing which group lets you promote which day. There is a Yahoo group for this. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Promotion_Loop_Schedule/join
All promotion groups can send their information to the owner and each day there is a reminder with list of which groups accept promotions. There are still some rules you may need to read, but on a whole this group saves a lot of promotion posting time on the groups.

I'm sure I've just scrapped the service of all the resources out there, so if you have anything to add, please do!

Good luck.

Bangers and Mash

I know, I'm not a true Irishman, but I think I was in a past life. Or maybe a future life who knows? Anyway here is my version:

Bangers and Mash 
Hot Sausage - or my favorite is Black Pepper Sausage
Potatoes
garlic
Onions
Bell pepper (red and green)

Quantities depend on how many you're serving. Broil or grill the sausage. Chop up garlic and put in with the potatoes w/skins and boil. When done drain and mash. Add pepper, salt and garlic powder to taste.

Saute strips of onions and peppers. Place mound of potatoes on plate with sausage on top covered in sauteed vegetables.

Calories approx. 230 per sausage link and 160 per 2/3 cup of potatoes.

Enjoy!
Serve over potatoes.

March is for the Irish!

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a wannabe Irish person! So March is Irish recipe month.

My version of:
Irish Boiled Potatoes  Serving 3-4 small potatoes
8-10 small red Potatoes
1 can Chicken Broth 98% fat free
1/4 cup Onions Chopped
1/4 cup Green Bell pepper Chopped
1/4 cup Red Bell pepper Chopped
1/4 cup Chopped mushrooms
2 cloves garlic chopped
1/4 tsp Dill
1/4 tsp Pepper
1/2 tsp Rosemary
1/2 tsp Chives
1/2 tsp Savory
1/2 tsp Tarragon

Wash and scrub potatoes and place in bowl. Add vegetables and pour in broth. Grind together spices and then add and stir. Place in refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Pour into sauce pan and boil until tender and serve.

Serving 316 Calories, Fat 1g, Sodium 237mg, Carbohydrate 70g, Dietary Fiber 8g, Sugars 5g, Protein 10g.

Enjoy!

Conferences

How many of you have attended a writing conference? Or some kind of conference for something you're interested in? Was it beneficial? Did you feel like you received your monies worth?

I have attended writing conferences since 2005 and all have been great and they have all been Romance Writers of America. Either the national conference or a chapter conference. That is until last weekend.

I attended the DFW Writers Conference. There were writers from non-fiction, screen writers, magazine journalists to Romance writers. It was an awesome experience. Diverse topics were offered and I learned about non-fiction and screen writing. I came away inspired and ready to start a new project.

Not to mention I met some great new friends. All in all, I'd suggest finding a conference that is a little outside your genre and broaden your horizons. I still want to attend my RWA conferences, but it's nice to have a different view.

So tell me your best experiences.