Screen time

Good grief!

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I have a secret. I’ve never shared this with anyone other than Rockford, and he was both shocked and dismayed. I’m prepared for the possibility that this could raise some hackles. But here it is. My big, dark secret.

I don’t like “Peanuts.”

Normally this doesn’t have a big impact on my day-to-day life — it isn’t difficult to avoid characters from the animated realm most of the time. But this year, Rockford decided to share his love of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with Poppy. And she loves it. We’ve watched it at least twice a day for the last week.

Before this week, I’ve never given much thought as to why I dislike the round-headed gang. But with all the good-griefing in the house lately, I’ve been able to come up with a list.

  • The vilification of Christmas decorations. What’s wrong with Snoopy’s festive dog house? Charlie Brown says it means his dog’s gone “commercial.” And later, he and his friends dance around their Christmas tree. Which they’ve festooned with decorations stolen from Snoopy’s house.
  • The children are so mean. It bothers me how frequently they call each other “stupid.” And by “each other,” I guess I mean “Charlie Brown.”
  • Charlie Brown’s depression. “I know everyone hates me”? That’s a bit heavy for a children’s Christmas special, isn’t it?
  • The way Lucy repeats herself all the time. (“I know when I’ve been insulted! I know when I’ve been insulted!”) It just annoys me.

    To be fair, there are a few things I do like about “Peanuts.” I like Snoopy’s affinity for root beer, and I like the kids’ little dinner roll feet. I like it when Snoopy pretends to be a penguin. And I love how much Poppy loves the show.

    So, “Peanuts.” I will let you into my home. But only because my little girl’s laugh makes me smile like nothing else.

    • menu plan Monday

    The baby is crying; let's make this quick

    Why do the weekends go by so quickly? Oh, right. Because they’re only two days long.

    Monday: Clam chowder

    Tuesday: Creamy herbed pork chops

    Wednesday: Mushroom chicken

    Thursday: Tacos

    Friday: Pizza

    … updated to add …

    Clam Chowder
    3 cans minced clams
    1 cup minced onion
    1 cup diced celery
    1 cup cubed potatoes
    1 cup diced carrots
    1/2 cup + 4 tablespoons butter
    1/2 cup + 4 tablespoons flour
    4 cups half-and-half
    2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
    1 1/2 teaspoons salt
    Ground black pepper to taste

    Drain juice from clams into a large skillet over the onions, celery, potatoes and carrots. Add water to cover and cook over medium heat until tender.

    Meanwhile, in a large stock pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Whisk in half-and-half and stir constantly until thick and smooth.

    Stir in vegetables and clam juice. Heat thoroughly; do not boil.

    Stir in clams just before serving. When clams are heated through, stir in vinegar and season with salt and pepper.