Life at a "Swell's" pace

My kitty, Meia, loves cat grass (Avena sativa, or the common oat) and it's so simple to grow in just a small pot in your window or in a large planter on your deck. There are no real answers, even by vets, as to why cats eat cat grass, but either way your kitty will go nuts over the lush grass that comes from it and it's also a great way to get them to add more fiber into their diets.

This is one of my favorites to use. It's from a company called, Botanical Interests and they have some of the best seed selections I've seen online. You can purchase your seeds from BI, here.

Just add soil to a simple pot or planter, add the seeds and cover with soil. Done!

In just a short time you will have cat grass growing for your kitty to munch on. Be sure to mist once a day to help keep the soil moist.

Meia loves it! I will sometimes catch her laying in the pot with the grass, she just loves it that much. Ha!

15-bean soup as been around for quite sometime, but it always seemed so boring to me when I made it. I decided it was time for a change. With this new revamped method, I feel it brings a bit of life to the old favorite.

Here's what you'll need:

1. 15- Bean Soup (20oz. bag)

2. Diced Whole Tomatoes (14.5 oz can)

3. Leftover Ham or Cooked Ham (I used a spiral ham we had a few nights before)

4. Mexican Chili Powder (2 tbs.)

5. Garlic Powder (2 tbs. or more to taste)

6. Creole Seasoning (3 tbs. or less to taste)

7. Seasoning Salt (5tbs.)

8. Ground Black Pepper (3 tbs.) and the seasoning package that comes with the beans

Pour your beans into hot water and allow to boil according to the package directions.

As the beans are cooking add your whole tomatoes and the spice package that came inside your bean bag.

Add your meats after the tomatoes have been added and allow to simmer on low for about 30 minutes.

Add your spices and sprinkle in your salt and pepper.

When your spices have been added, allow to simmer for about 2 hours or until beans are tender. Serve with Parmesan Cheese, french bread or even just simple crackers.