From Politics to Pancakes

I am not shy to admit that I do not follow politics and I rarely follow the news. I know what is going on in the world but I think everything I see or read about is so depressing or so blown out of proportion that I cannot follow a story without getting sad or angry (and nobody wants a sad or angry Prep Wife!)

To be honest, a part of me wishes I were more interested in politics (and I'm sure there are many reasons why I should be); but another part of me just tells me to stay away. With the risk of sounding extremely childish, I will say that I think politics (and some politicians-- not all) are dirty. After politicians try to convince each and every one of us that they care the most about the community, we hear more about their missteps and conspiracies than their desires and success stories in making a real difference. My deep yet naïve thoughts: let's all bake together and get along!

Every time people talk about politics, I take a step back, turn on my radar and scan the faces of the ones who are involved in the conversation with the hopes of finding another clueless and slightly desperate-looking facial expression. I usually find such a person. We're easy to spot. If you're like me and understand my situation, here are my great words of wisdom! When you find yourself physically (not verbally) in the middle of a deep and important discussion that you have no understanding of, just look for the silent one who has a small smile and nods a lot (or the one who finds another clueless face and starts talking about food. That's usually me!) That person is your window out. If you cannot find this person, find a drink and pretend you're interested.

Me!

So because I can't (nor do I want to) lecture you about politics, here's the ultimate fluffy pancake recipe!

The Best Pancakes of All Time!

Ingredients

- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 egg
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions

1. Sift the flour, baking powder and baking soda into a bowl. Add the sugar (optional) and the salt and mix.
2. Make a well in the middle of the bowl and add the milk and the egg and mix until well combined.
3. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the pancake batter 1/4 cup at a time. Brown the pancake on both sides and top with your choice of butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, jam...

The BEST pancakes of all time!