April, 2011, North Nikiski, Alaska

We live on a side of a hill about hundred feet from an 8 acre lake.  Any “goings-on” noise on the lake travels up the hill. We know when the loons are landing in the spring by their songs and loud splashdown and the mama ducks and their babies talking to each other. We also know when momma Moose and her baby go down to the lake for a drink and a swim, as we hear the splash and see the big ripples in the lake. If anyone is in a boat out in the middle of the lake fishing, watch out, we know what you’re talking about too!

I took this 12-inch, strawberry grouper home from the Sea Eagle Market, in Beaufort, S.C., whole.

KITCHEN SINK COOKIES

My daughter Gail asked about this recipe several weeks ago-I finally found it!

I made these yesterday. They are without a doubt the most tenderest, flakiest cookie I have ever baked.

In a large bowl

3 1/2 cups of flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon of baking powder

1/2 teaspoons salt

1 cup long cooking oats-uncooked

In a mixer bowl place:

1 cup sugar

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup butter at room temperature

1 cup vegetable oil

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 pounds lean flank or skirt steak, trimmed and wiped dry with paper towels

Steak marinade (recipe follows)

Roasted onions and peppers (recipe follows)

8 flour tortillas

Salsa

Sour cream

Chunky Guacamole (recipe follows)

¼ cup vegetable oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons minced scallions

1 clove garlic, minced

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

1 teaspoon cumin