Chelsea had her very first grooming today. We had decided that we would get her clipped this year so she would be more comfortable in the heat of the summer. She will have several months to grow back her winter length and perhaps I can get her used to being brushed more and keep snarls out of the hair. She was such a good girl. No barking or snapping and she stood still as can be.

She is ADORABLE. I will take pictures tomorrow and post one tomorrow night. I can hardly wait to hear Jim's reaction.

Following is the recipe for the Ham Strata that I fixed on Sunday. Enjoy.

Ham Strata

12 slices Italian or French bread - crusts removed
1/4 cup Lite Mayonnaise
1 TBLSP. butter
1 cup celery - chopped
1/2 cup onion - chopped
12 cup peppers -any color - chopped
1 1/2 cups cheddar, Swis or jack cheese or a mixture - grated
2 cups ham - cubed or diced
4 eggs
3 cups milk
1 teasp salt
1/2 teasp pepper

Cook the celery, onion and pepper in butter until soft. Add the ham and let cool.

Spread Mayonnaise on one side of all the bread slices. Place a layer mayo side up in a 13 X 9 X 2 inch baking dish. Top with the ham and veggies and the cheese. Layer the rest of the bread may side down.

In a blender mix the eggs, milk and salt and pepper. Pour over all and refrigerate overnight or at LEAST 8 hours. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature then bake at 350 degrees for 1 to 1/2 hours until set.

Serve.

It rained most of the day so I am REALLY glad that I spread peat moss and planters mix in the gardens yesterday. It will work in nicely.

Tomorrow, think of Dick, he has to go for his major dental work.

Have a nice evening.

Mary