Please wear RED on February 3. . . .it’s “National Wear RED” day, a day for women to think about taking care of our hearts and to live in a way to protect ourselves from heart attacts.  Please visit  http://www.americanheart.org/ for more info.

February is a month for LOVE.  I’m having a bunch of my friends over this Saturday to celebrate Valentine’s day.  We’re going to exchange cards and just enjoy our friendship the way women like to–by eating and talking and being silly!  Be thinking about what you can do for Valentine’s day.  It’s fun to get in the spirit of things!  I bought pink curtains for the kitchen and it makes me happy whenever I see them. . .

And now for a recipe.  I made this for dinner tonight and everyone loved it. 

Baked Beef Stew

      1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
      1 cup water
      3 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
      2 teaspoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
   1/2 teaspoon pepper
      2 pounds lean beef stew meat, cut into 1 inch pieces
      4 medium carrots, cut into 1 inch chunks
      3 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
      2 celery ribs, cut into 3/4 inch chunks
      1 medium onion, cut into chunks

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, water, tapioca, sugar, salt and pepper.  Add remaining ingredients; mix well.  Pour into a greased 13-in. by 9-in. by 2-in. or 3 quart baking dish.  Cover and bake at 375 for 1-3/4 to 2 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender.  Serve in bowls.  Yield: 6-8 servings