Well mom broke the washing machine 😦 Its been inevitable, she always puts just one item in and turn it on improper settings making the machine off balance. She also doesn’t use detergent like she should, either she never uses it or puts in a ridiculous amount. This last time she put in one queen size sheet and I came home to a racket going on downstairs because the machine was thrown completely off balance. There was grinding and a smoky smell. Bad news. We have done without a washer for a month, taking our clothes to a laundry-mat. Haven’t done that since college days. Did you know that it costs $2.75 a load just for the washing part?!? Holy cow, I took two rolls of quarters and had to go get another. $30!!

I have been letting her be as independent as possible, washing her own clothing, going through the checkout lane by herself, but lately it’s been too much for her. I found her at Winco last week in the checkout lane dumping all her change on the poor cashiers counter, about $12 dollars in change, and she still owed another $15. This is the first time she could not find her paper cash in her wallet, like she usually does. So I had to jump in and use a card. Thank goodness she had chosen the most patient cashier in the building, and one that happened to have a father with dementia, so she understood what was happening.

Instant Pot Lentils and Rice

• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 3/4 cup brown rice
• 3/4 cup lentils
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 can petite diced tomatoes
• Lipton Onion recipe secrets (or 1 Tbs. dried onion and a bullion cube)

Set Instant Pot to manual and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes. This recipe is good alone, or wrapped in a tortilla with sour cream and some salsa with cheese. You could also use a stove top and simmer in a skillet for 45 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Feeds 6 easily

Published by KaGardn1

I'm trying to live the most meaningful and intentional life possible. Minimalist, Vegetarian, Fierce protector of a full night sleep, Mother, Wife, Daughter -caretaker, Sister, Friend, Nurse. Sharing day to day life with family and friends. A quest to minimize effects of Alzheimer's Disease. View all posts by KaGardn1