Feeling Domestic

Isn't it funny how timing and location make a huge difference in life? I have a new friend. Or should I say a new, old friend? The thing is, I've known her all my life. I was born the day after her little sister, and they've lived down the street from me since birth. But because she's 5 years older than me, our worlds only crossed at church or when I was playing at her house with her sister.

Now that we're grown, things are different. She's temporarily moved back in with her parents while her husband goes back to school, since they just got out of the Air Force. So, once again, we live a few houses apart. But this time, our lives are much more similiar. She has two young twins, a husband who is rarely around because he's so busy, they just left the Air Force, and she lives at home. Hmm -- sound like me? (Except the twins, thank goodness.)

Anyway, this friend has become my designated walking partner. AND, she's full of interesting conversation. She is very domestic and knows all sorts of things about housekeeping, raising children, and cooking! Yesterday on our walk she told me about rhubarb bread. My mouth watered immediately. I love anything rhubarb. Her dad has tons of it growing in her yard, so she cut me a bunch of it and sent me on my way, armed with the veg and a recipe.

I made it last night. I don't bake or cook very much these days, and I had so much fun being back in the kitchen. It turned out beautifully and tasted even better! The rhubarb flavor is very mild, and it tastes remarkably similar to banana bread.

The website she directed me to was http://www.kingarthurflour.com/. Click on the link for Recipes and then Walnut-Strawberry (or Rhubarb) Quick Bread. I highly recommend it.