On Fridays I like to pause for a few moments with Susanne and friends
to reflect on some of the blessings of the week.

Here are some of the bright spots of the last week:

1. Apple Crisp. Sunday night we Face Timed with my oldest son (always a favorite though I don’t list it every time). He mentioned picking apples with friends. As we discussed different things to do with apples, I began to crave Apple Crisp. I had an appointment the next day and stopped at the store afterward for a few apples, among other things. And then made Apple Crisp. 🙂 I love this recipe because it doesn’t use oatmeal for the topping—oatmeal never tastes quite done to me in toppings like that. This tasted so good, and the house smelled wonderful while it was baking.

Apple Crisp

4 c. sliced, pared tart apples
2/3-3/4 c. brown sugar (packed)
1/2 c. flour
3/4 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/3 c. butter or margarine, softened

Heat oven to 375. Grease square 8×8 pan. Place apples slices in pan. Mix remaining ingredients thoroughly. Sprinkle over apples. Bake 30 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown. Serve warm, with light cream or ice cream if desired.

I used the lower amount of brown sugar and Golden Delicious apples. I may try a tarter variety next time. I think I could use a gluten-free flour with it for our gluten-intolerant family members.

2. A walk with my husband. I know some of you are avid walkers and hikers. I usually exercise via my stationary bike, but Jim headed out for a walk Sunday afternoon, and I joined him. I can tell walking does things for me that stationary biking doesn’t. Plus I enjoyed the company and conversation. 🙂

3. Crunchy leaves. There was a smattering of leaves on the sidewalk as we walked, and walking over crunchy leaves is just one of life’s little pleasures for me. 🙂

4. Follow-up appointments from my hospital visit with afib.I saw both my primary care doctor and cardiologist. The latter doesn’t always explain things to my satisfaction, but if I can formulate questions ahead of time and have them ready, he’s happy to answer them. I felt I was able to ask and receive answers to everything I needed. We’re adjusting medications for now in hopes that will help. Another surgery to “patch” the problem area in my heart is an option, but not one I want to hurry toward without trying medicine first.

5. October! Turning the calendar page to a new month is a another little pleasure, and October is one of my favorite months.

What’s something good from your week?