Californians in snow

The layered look in California in April means a wrap over a bikini.  In Utah, it means jeans over long johns, under a waterproof bib. 

As we headed out looking for a good hill for sledding and snowball fighting, we didn’t have to travel far.  The sun shined on the newly fallen snow while the crisp air added a blush to our cheeks.  Blue plastic sleds loaded with novice sledders sped down the hill in wayward directions.  The problem was not going down, but coming back up the hill.  It required sure footing and thigh muscles that had atrophied in sunny California.  Small patches of green grass were deceitful.  They were slick and when used on the uphill return, brought a quick tumble down.  Up and down, down then up went GAP Splat, GAP Sprawled Flat, and GAP Angel Splat. 

Fortresses built of snow did little to protect one from the barrage of snowballs crafted of wet powdered snow.  Unlike baseball, there is crying in snowball fighting.  Even snowball warriors come out scathed.  And just like all soldiers, we soon withdrew the troops and returned to the safety of our warm shelter to eat Slop (literally).

Recipe for Tamale Casserole (affectionately named Slop by the family, a favorite passed down for at least 2 generations)

1 can corn
1 can pork and beans
1 can black beans (or any canned bean on hand)
1 can chili with beans (or Campbell’s chili bean soup)
1 can tomato sauce
1 pound ground beef, browned with onions
3 Xlnt beef tamales, crumbled

Combine all ingredients in a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese.  Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

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