shrove tuesday and other stuff

Whew!! I'm back!

Our two-week run of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is now finished.

I have my life to myself again, and I don't know what to do with it. I've been so focused on the play, and now that it's over, I'm not entirely sure what I'm supposed to be doing.

It was a fabulous experience, though. The acting was all very well done, even the younger kids who were part of it. The costumes and makeup were great. The sense of community that grew up between us all was something that I've rarely experienced before. All almost-40 of us became friends. Truly. And as far as I know, that is not typical within a production.

But, it's over. Time to move on, and get back into a normal life-rhythm.

And today is Shrove Tuesday. Also known as Pancake Tuesday. Because today is the day that, traditionally, we're to use up all of the food that we won't be eating during the 40 days of fasting for Lent. Things like butter and eggs. Hence the pancakes.

Our family tradition doesn't include observing Lent, but I personally have, for the last few years, given up something at this time of year... like sugar, or specific computer activities, or TV. I still haven't decided what it will be this year...

Regardless of that, though, we do eat pancakes for dinner on Shrove Tuesday. A huge stack of crepes, generally. Especially since I found an essentially fool-proof recipe for them.

Basic Crepes
adapted slightly from allrecipes

1 cup flour
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/4 tsp salt
2 Tbsp melted butter

Beat eggs lightly, then mix in milk and water. Gradually whisk in flour and salt to make a smooth batter, then whisk in melted butter.
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each crepe. Tilt the pan with a circular motion so that the batter coats the surface evenly.
Cook the crepe for about 2 minutes, until the bottom is light brown. Loosen with a spatula, turn and cook the other side. Serve hot. Makes approx 8 crepes.

And that's it. We like to eat them with homemade applesauce, or strawberries and whipped cream, or sugar and lemon juice, or peanut butter and sliced bananas, or maple syrup, or jam... the possibilities are endless. They're even fabulous with a savoury filling - sausage/onion/mushrooms, or creamed chicken, or cheese.