Word Origins, Mandarin, Shopping, Doctor's, Cooold.

Watching a programme about all kinds of antiques (no not the Roadshow) there was a bronze medal from an early Olympic games - in Europe I think - and on the reverse it portrayed naked gymnasts. It was explained, something I didn't know, that in ancient Greece the word gymnasio meant naked athletes and gymnasion was where they did their athletics. I knew they did athletics without clothes but didn't realise this is where we got gymnasium and gymnastics from. γυμναστήριο is the actual Greek word. I don't think women did athletics in those days.

Stuffed myself silly at Mandarin again, I always intend not to eat so much, but everything is so delicious. I always have the hot and sour soup, can't resist it. Had a few pieces of sushi today too. Its OK, but not the same thing as one can get at the coast where fresh fish is available.

We have spent so much on parking lately, the cash box is empty. At least we don't have to pay for the hospital treatments even if we have to pay to use their parking lots. Then we went shopping today and the bill was horrendous. I don't know how two of us can spend/eat so much. Went to the doctor's office before shopping and were in and out quite quickly. Just there for refills. It was murder staggering into the office for the pair of us, the wind was blowing and it felt bitter. Everyone is saying where is spring, but it is still April and I have known bad snow storms in April.

I am very fond of snow peas so when I saw this recipe obviously I saved it. I bought some snow peas today.

Snow Pea Soup

1 Tbs (15 ml) olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 scallions (spring onions), green and white
parts, chopped
1 lb (450 g) snow peas (mange-touts), trimmed
4 cups (1 L) coarsely chopped romaine lettuce
4 cups (1 L) chicken or vegetable stock
1 Tbs (15 ml) chopped fresh mint, or 1 tsp (5 ml) dried
1/2 tsp (2 ml) dried tarragon
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Yogurt or sour cream for garnish (optional)
Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over moderate heat. Sauté the onion and scallions until tender, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the snow peas and romaine lettuce and sauté an additional 3 minutes. Add the stock, mint, tarragon, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes. Process in small batches in an electric food processor or blender until smooth. Strain and serve hot or chilled. Garnish with yogurt or sour cream, and/or chives if desired.

Yield: Serves 4 to 6.

Source: WW Recipes

Have a great day