Talkin' bout the weather

I can't avoid it. I'm a Minnesotan, born and raised, and we can't help but talk about our crazy weather. As though after 15, 26, 35, or 78 years a swing of 40 degrees over 24 hours is something shocking. Those darn Alberta Clippers. One day a frigid -20F, the next 20F. Whew, now that that's out of my system...

This week was a new start for many reasons. New semester and new president being the two topping my list. I enjoyed it. If I remember correctly, I believe that January 21st was scientifically found to be the most depressing day of the year. It's grey, dreary, wintry, cold, the holidays are far gone enough that the mundane routine has likely returned, and many folks are lacking Vitamin D. 

I CANNOT WAIT TO GET BACK ON MY BIKE! 

I'm hoping that getting back to the grind will keep me preoccupied enough to power through to spring. The planning for Bike/Walk 2009 has commenced and that certainly helps for a speedy countdown to spring. Here's hoping finals don't interfere with the festivities and fun of what's sure to be the biggest event in Twin Cities Bike/Walk history. The state of the economy is going to make this the year for creativity and resourcefulness. 

Speaking of the crappy economy. This recession has caused our doorstep to have been directly shat upon, like so many others. I won't go into too many details, thankfully we haven't yet "lost" a job, but the ever increasing number of jobs cut down in wages/hours/benefits has now hit home. 

To pay homage to the tough times I brought some good old fashioned, truly Minnesotan "Recession Dip" to the inauguration potluck we attended on Tuesday. I leave you with the recipe. 

Recession Dip:

1 can - Spam or Spam LITE, shredded

1 can - Hormel Chili with Beans or Hormel 99% Fat Free Vegetarian Chili
2 cups - Cheddar Cheese, shredded

1. Remove Spam from can and thoroughly rinse
2. Shred spam with cheese grater
3. Mix all three ingredients in a microwave safe 2 quart casserole with lid
4. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, remove lid, stir, replace lid and microwave 5 more minutes
5. Enjoy. 

Serve with your favorite snack cracker. The cheaper the better. 

*Warning* If you have any issues with taking in too much sodium. Don't come within 5 feet of this dish.