Well Mike's room has been officially deep-cleaned...is this the correct phrasing for this? I don't know but go with it. I spent the remainder of the afternoon cleaning the bath and dusting the room, changing the light bulbs...kind of bizarre but the bulbs in all of the lamps were tiny 2-inchers and didn't provide a whole lot of light. Mood lighting you ask? Probably not. More than likely the cheapest bulbs that the last guy with the room bought. Anyway, everything is sparkling clean, including the kitchen and bath floor which I scrubbed on my hands and knees. Please do not misunderstand me, I was thrilled to be able to do this for my hubby and felt extremely useful.

I had a moment of true gratification when I proved yet again, that the way to a man's heart is via his stomach. Mike had a home-cooked meal this evening thanks to the new Crock Pot and skillet acquired this morning. The chili turned out great and Mike was excited to think that he might be able to fix a few dishes other than frozen microwavable meals. He's living large now, folks. Even a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie to polish off the meal. Isn't it funny what we take for granted until we are away from some of the simple routines and comforts of home?

So in honor of Mike's new Crock Pot, here is a great website with some perfect meals for "dump-it-in-and-walk-away-cooking," http://www.crock-pot.com/Recipes.aspx . Hope you will find something tasty. Here's the chili recipe, too:

Chili
1 large can tomato soup
1 large soup can of water
1 small can tomato paste
1 can kidney beans
1 can pinto beans
1 can tomatoes seasoned for chili (found next to the canned chili at the Kunsan commissary...)
1 c. chopped onions
½ tsp. pepper
1 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 lb. ground beef, cooked and drained

Combine all ingredients in crock pot. Set it on low for 8 hours (unless you get caught up in scrubbing something, then set it on high for 4 hours). Serve with cheese, fritos and sour cream. Enjoy!