Monday

I got home late (about 5:45 PM) as I had an errand to run. I changed clothes while debating what I could accomplish tonight and still have a relaxing evening.

So, in the end, first I raised the seat on my bicycle, to the correct height for me (I still need to add air to the tires before I actually try and ride it). I had lowered it several years ago for Carla to ride. Next, I grabbed my garden gloves and went out back. I patrolled the rear garden for weeds and then thoroughly weeded the raised bed vegetable garden. I filled the bird feeder and dispersed the leftover hot dog buns, for the squirrels. I measured the amount I would have to have of sand to level the new fountain (almost 2 inches!) and then went back inside at 7:00 PM.

I started making dinner. I got the correct ingredients for the Uncle Ben's Original Wild Rice mixture in the pot and headed for boiling. Then, I turned that to Low and set the timer for 25 minutes (I am still not convinced the quick-cooking version tastes as good). Next I put a half inch of canola oil in my biggest cast iron frying pan and heated it up. I threw in a slice of potato (when the potato slice floats and bubbles, you are ready to fry).

Next I prepared my mis en place, using the breading trays Luanne and Sadie gave me. The first held flour, the second three eggs and a bit of cream, whisked, and the third, yellow corn meal. I took a couple of photos so you can see what I mean.

I got out the three catfish filets and rinsed them off in cold water. I checked for bones, and then patted them dry with kitchen (English) or what we call paper (USA) towels. When the potato floated, they went into the flour, then the egg mixture and finally the corn meal. I seasoned them on one side at this point. Using (for the first time) my fish spatula, I turned them over after three minutes and then seasoned that side. Three minutes later, I took them out and put them on a plate, covered with kitchen towels, to drain. I tented them with foil and put them in the microwave, waiting for the rice to finish.

When the rice was done, it was almost 8:00 PM. So, I fixed my plate (again, eating the catfish like I prefer, Southern-style, with hot sauce as opposed to, say tartar sauce). I took my plate into the bedroom and turned on the TV.

I went to sleep at 10:00 PM.