Big hairy deal

Well, it's official. Winter is here. Sure I can complain about the endless shovelling, but it's really my dog who's got it tough in the winter. Those big hairy paws sure do pick up a lot of snow.

You'd think a Russian breed would be better adapted to winter conditions, at least better than plunking her butt down in a drift periodically while on a walk to gnaw at the snow clumps stuck in her paws. Toe balls, I call them.

If you're looking for tasty meals to warm your belly on these cold, snowy days, I'd recommend either of these slow cooker recipes from Pinch of Yum. I made the chicken wild rice soup last weekend, and the queso chicken chili yesterday. So good and so easy! What's better than that?