Sandra Lee | 2011-01-18 17:46:10
For Christmas I received a white umbrella cockatoo I have named Phoenix. He was hatched October 30th, and since then has been traveling by my side. When I got him he had minimal feathers and looked pre-historic. His fragility scared me a bit but I swooped him up in my arms and did my best. He is a funny little thing, calm and sweet-- not demanding at all until feeding time. Twice a day (8am and 8pm) he is hungry! Not a subtle calm hungry mind you -- but a full blown "I was hungry 10 hours ago" frantic hungry. He puffs up all his white feathers and turns into the only thing I can think of when he does this...a gremlin. However, 3 eye droppers full of baby bird formula and he is back to being my sweet little gentleman.
He can't fly yet --thank goodness, but that is coming soon. For now he is content just trying to learn how to use his big feet.
Since Phoenix is grounded it is possible for him to come with me this Friday and throughout the taping of season 15 of Semi-Homemade. Wow! Although he missed the first 14 seasons, he will feel right at home in the giant bird cage that lives in the white room living room on set. Finally it can be used and is not just for decor.
Hosting this season of Semi-Homemade is going to be the best. Every year my production team and I come up with even more exciting ways to deliver time saving meals. Just to whet your appetite, there will be a money-saving "Bake Sale Birthday Bash," a sensational "Soul Food," and fabulous "Five from France" episode. All will include plenty of tips on decorating your tablescape and creating the ultimate dining experience quickly. The season 15 premiere is this March.
In the meantime, you can checkout Sandra's Money Saving Meals on Sunday at 12 noon EST/11 Central. This week you'll see my fabulous "Perfect Pasta" episode where I will teach you how to transform your favorite pasta dishes into money saving meals. How about letting the family dine on remarkable Pork Ragu over Penne or decadent creamy Spaghetti Carbonara all while still saving money?
Recipe of the Week: This coming Friday (January 21st) is national Granola Bar Day. Try out my Soft Granola Goodies made with granola, oatmeal, cranberries, and even pumpkin seeds. They are delicious snacks and will keep any healthy eating or slimming down New Year's resolutions :)
Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra Lee
