For Her Michigan

In addition to orange, Owen loves everything "Michigan". Pretty much anything blue and gold, excuse me maize, counts; he refers to anything with these colors as, " for his Michigan". When we were up north, I found some blue and gold (maize) sock yarn and thought it would be perfect for Owen's Michigan. I decided to make a hat rather than socks because the boys always complain of the hand knit socks falling down. I got right to work on the project and knit it up in the car. Well, I didn't check his head size, so it is a bit small for him. Fortunately, because Owen had it on his head at one point in time, Laney loves it. When wearing it she looks more like a bee rather than a football fan, but then again who wants to be a U of M fan right now?

Actually, truth be told I don't care if they win or loose; the only reason I watch football is for the snacks. I don't know a touchdown from a field goal, but I do know that this Hot Artichoke Dip is really good. It seems everyone has a artichoke dip recipe, but this one is, of course, the best:

1 small clove of garlic

1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts or bottoms (not marinated)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

8 oz cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 cup mayonnaise

In a food processor, process garlic. Add artichoke hearts, process until pureed. Add remaining ingredients. You can heat it in a saucepan, in the oven, or in the microwave. Serve hot with vegetables, chips or crackers for dipping. It makes a lot, so we usually make a 1/2 batch and eat every bite.

Oh yeah, GO BLUE!