Girlfriend "Chit Chat"

This is simply  "chit chat" between Girlfriends.
If you were wearing your sweats and sipping diet Coke with me right now  This is what I would be telling you about. 

Doncha just LOVE this?

A friend gave this to me for Christmas.

It instantly became one of my

"Favorite Things".

Husband and I were invited to a
small Dinner Party last night.
I was asked to bring a Salad
to contribute to the meal.
 Not to say I'm lazy,
but I hate washing lettuce   
I was most happy to oblige. 
Everyone LOVED my salad,
and I think it was partly because it
was served from the pretty Yellow-Polka-Dot Bowl.
(mental note:  pretty dishes HELP)

Dead winter and there's NOT a good tomato to be found.  What to do?

This is what I did -
And it was DE.LI.CIOUS.

Washed.
Dried.
Torn into small pieces.

Mixed into bowl of lettuce,

just before serving.

"Sugared Pecans".

(could have been Sugared Walnuts)

*Recipe below

Added to the bowl of lettuce

and Craisins just before serving.

Drizzle onto the Salad
and mix well.
*this is what I used but probably
any type of Raspberry Vinaigrette
would be great.

As promised -
                "Sugared Pecans/Walnuts"


1/2 Cup  Sugar
1/4 t.      Cayenne Pepper
1/4 t.      Salt
1 Cup    Nuts   

Carefully melt sugar in a medium frying pan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.  When sugar is liquid add Cayenne Pepper, Salt, and Nuts.  Stir till nuts are well coated, then transfer to a plate lined with Wax Paper coated with Cooking Spray.  When cool, break into pieces.  Store in airtight container till ready to serve.    *I made these the day before I planned to use them.

Do you need a refill on your Diet Coke?. . .
BTW, "Happy New Year, Girlfriend!"