I traveled 2,464 miles in 48 hours.  With linked hands we cried and said goodbye to my grandfather, and later, with those same hands held high, we toasted his long, beautiful life.  He was loved and he will be missed.  Loved and missed, all any of us hope for when we leave this world.

Boston to Ft. Meyers to Venice and back again.  I am tired, bone tired, but I tuck the kids in, kiss their sweet cheeks and say good-night.  Later, I’ll rest my weary head on Bubba’s shoulder and close my eyes, grateful he is once again next to me.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Loaded with spinach and artichokes and made a bit lighter with Greek yogurt and 1/3 less fat cream cheese, this classic party dip is sure to be a hit!

Makes about 5 1/2 cups

Recipe adapted from Cooking Light September 2007

Ingredients:

2 cups shredded, part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup whole Greek yogurt

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon +  a pinch more of garlic powder

1 can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 (8 ounce) block 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened

1 (8 ounce) block full fat cream cheese, softened

1/2 (10 ounce) package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained and squeezed dry

Serve with pita chips, tortilla chips or grilled baguette

Directions:

Pre-heat your oven to 350F.  Using a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and the rest of the ingredients until well combined.  Spoon and spread mixture into 1.5 quart baking dish and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.  Place on center rack in your oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.  This may take an additional 5 minutes depending on your oven.  Serve warm, with pita chips, tortilla chips or grilled baguette.  Enjoy!

5 Can’t Miss Superbowl Dips!

Love sour cream and onion dip?  Skip the store-bought versions and make your own for the big game!  Head to Alexandra’s Kitchen for her delicious recipe.

Bacon fans coming over tomorrow? Woo them with Taste and Tell’s bacon and horseradish dip.

If you love brie, you must make Spoon Fork Bacon’s basic brie dip.  Yum!

Hummus lovers head to Smitten Kitchen for Deb’s ethereally smooth hummus! Ethereally. Smooth. Hummus.  I gotta check this out soon!

Head here for my tried and true, never fail, always yummy guacamole.  Enjoy!