The ForkPrints by Irene

April 23

happy 26th to our sofia 🤍

doing life your way, making your own moves… and looking good while doing it

Last night’s dinner at Koon Thai Kitchen with Peter and Christine after airport pickup ✈️

Then: roses at the store in the middle of shipping chaos.

Now: roses on my kitchen table while I pack for Ely and get ready to fly out west next week.

Same florist. Same man. Same bold orange roses.

Steve always gets it. Carol's Cedar Cellar never disappoints.

Life looks different this year… and I’m here for it.

On our way to Ely and my belly was crying for food. Steve says Subway.

I looked at him like… seriously??? Absolutely not. 😂

So we stopped at Mitch’s Family Kitchen II because I’ve been dying to try it.

I’m standing in line and of course I can’t just stand there quietly. I asked the lady behind me if she had tried the special which was roast beef. She said her son loves the grilled cheese she was grabbing but then she looked at me and said, “try the beans.”

Say no more.

Holy Smoke Cowboy Beans. That’s the name. And let me tell you… they did not come to play. 🔥Thick. Smoky. Sweet. Hearty. Not a side dish. The whole personality.

I wanted the cheeseburger fresh off the grill but Steve is patiently waiting, so I grabbed one of the to-go cheeseburgers from the warmers and yummmm. Zero regrets.

Safe to say I have a new favorite pit stop in Warroad.

I’m coming into this from a really grounded place.

I literally just wrapped up a women’s retreat at 11am yesterday, full of reflection, connection, faith, and stillness, and then jumped straight into prepping for our Super Bowl tailgate. Because if you know me (ask Steve), you know I love a gathering. Food, people, laughter, music… I’m here for all of it.

So, this isn’t about arguing. It’s not about attacking anyone. It’s about understanding. And honestly… I’ve been excited about the halftime show, so here we are.

I’m genuinely curious, and I mean this with love and respect. Why does the Super Bowl halftime show turn into a judging competition every single year?

This year, I’ve seen comments saying, “it’s not in English,” “it’s not American,” or simply “I don’t understand Spanish.”

Let’s pause right there.

Puerto Rico is American. It is a U.S. territory, and Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens. And Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States.

Not understanding a language doesn’t make it less valid, less meaningful, or less worthy of the biggest stage. Music was never meant to be a comprehension test. It’s meant to be felt.

Bad Bunny didn’t use the halftime show to divide people. If anything, his message was about unity and connection. He represented countries across North America and South America, reminding us that culture, rhythm, and humanity don’t stop at borders. He even held up a football that read “Together We Are America,” with a reminder that love is stronger than hate. That feels pretty American to me.

I also can’t help but smile knowing that Zumba instructors all over the world were eagerly waiting for this performance. We live for this kind of energy. And honestly? We got an added bonus. Ricky Martin teasing new music??? The dance world absolutely noticed. 💃🔥

I use Spanish songs in my Zumba classes all the time including Bad Bunny. Do I know every word? No. But I know the beat, and I know the rhythm. I spend countless hours listening to music.... feeling the rhythm, letting it move me, letting it guide how the body wants to move. That’s how I create my routines. Not by translating lyrics, but by connecting to the music.

And the truth is, my class doesn’t ask who sings the song. They don’t ask what language it’s in. They just move. They sweat. They smile. They feel the joy in the room.

Last year people said they didn’t understand Kendrick Lamar. Other years it’s too loud, too political, too pop, too much dancing, not enough dancing… and yes, let’s say it, too much booty-shaking.

And if that part offended you, maybe take it up with the cameramen. They’re the ones choosing the close-ups. There are plenty of angles to film a performance, in my opinion.

But let’s talk about that for a second.

Those hip movements everyone loves to comment on? Those isolations, that rhythm, that freedom of movement have deep roots in African dance traditions. It’s cultural. It’s expressive. It’s joyful. And it’s not random.

And also… let’s be real - that’s a workout. You should see us in Zumba. You’ll be sweating in no time, smiling the whole time, feeling strong, energized, and thinking, wow… I feel DANG good.

And since some people are bringing up “Christian values,” let’s talk about that too - respectfully and honestly.

I grew up Roman Catholic. God is my center. Faith, prayer, community, and compassion are lived values for me, not talking points.

Puerto Rico is deeply Christian, with Roman Catholicism woven into its history, families, and daily life. Worship there doesn’t always look quiet or still. Sometimes it looks like joy, music, movement, and celebration. That doesn’t offend God. For many cultures, that honors Him.

Bad Bunny didn’t mock faith. He didn’t attack Christianity. He represented his home, his people, and a culture that believes in God, loves God, and still knows how to dance, celebrate, and come together.

And here’s the gentle truth: Throwing around “Christian values” while judging, shaming, or excluding others isn’t practicing Christianity. It’s performing it.

Faith without love, humility, and compassion misses the point.

Some of the loudest critics are happily ordering margaritas with their tacos, heading to happy hour at their favorite Mexican restaurant, reading Spanish menus, munching nachos, and maybe even planning a trip to Mexico next year, all while bashing a Spanish-language performance.

Let’s be honest… that feels a little hypocritical.

The truth is: no halftime show has ever made everyone happy and that’s okay.

Music is joy. Music is culture. Music is connection even when it’s not in your first language. Remember La Bamba or Macarena?

So instead of asking “Why this?” maybe ask “Why not?” And instead of judging, maybe try feeling.

A soul-filling Winter Women’s Retreat all weekend - connection, grounding, and beautiful women - and then we roll straight into SUPER BOWL SUNDAY. 🏈🔥

From deep breaths and full hearts to loud cheers, good food, and my Super Bowl Tailgate Party tomorrow…. I’m living for this balance 💃🏻

Grateful. Energized. So ready for what’s ahead.

Let’s goooo! 🥰🏈🎉

Community, joy, football, food - honestly doesn’t get better than this ❤️

Now I’m in our small shouse organizing chaos, staring out the window trying to spot Ella and her fawn (last time I saw her was July), while ALSO attempting to plan concrete pours, schedule appointments, and pretend my travel plans are still realistic.

Narrator: they are not 😂

Anyway. I get hungry. Because obviously.

And I tell Linda how Steve will go get himself lunch… and somehow forget to get something for me unless I specifically say something. Or unless he asks. Which he doesn’t. Not unconsciously. Ever.

Meanwhile… ME???

Every single time I stop for my Pink Lotus at Reed River, I automatically get him his large hot chocolate and blueberry muffin. He didn’t ask. I didn’t announce it. I didn’t send a reminder text. I just knew.

This is the same man who can remember measurements, blueprints, plans, and exactly where the good hunting and fishing spots are… but food for me? A mystery.

Before anyone comes for my husband — I am NOT bashing him. If I ask for anything, he gets it immediately. This is literally ONLY about food.

Which is important because… I eat like 6–7 times a day.

Breakfast. Morning coffee/teatime. Lunch. Afternoon coffee/teatime. Dinner. Supper. AND dessert (non-negotiable).

These are not meals. These are intentional check-ins.

Linda just laughed and said her husband is the SAME WAY and now I’m starting to think there’s a secret handbook???

So now I have questions.

Is this a men-are-from-Mars thing? Are women from Venus? Or do women just come equipped with an “extra thought for you” feature… especially when food/snacks are involved? 😂

Asking for science. And snacks.

which means six more weeks of winter ❄️😩

Okay. Sure.

But here’s the thing - my dad’s name was Phil.

My brother’s name is Phil.

So honestly… couldn’t I have just asked them for the weather?

(Well… maybe not my dad - he passed away years ago but knowing him, he’d absolutely be laughing at this whole thing and saying, “Yeah, it’s winter. You live up north. Put a jacket on.”)

And also… can we talk about how a groundhog in Pennsylvania gets pulled out of a stump by a man in a top hat and suddenly we’re all like,

“Phil has spoken.”

Is he even real?

Who started this?

Why are we trusting a rodent with seasonal authority?

That said… I’m still laughing. Still cold. And hoping Phil gets a nap after all this.

Happy Groundhog Day! Six more weeks of winter, according to one Phil anyway 😩❄️

My time with Evergreen Lumber ended the way so much of it was lived - through people.

Yesterday at 5:00pm, I took a picture of my favorite UPS driver, Tim Olson. He’s been my constant since my Ace days, so we’re talking almost over two decades now. Through all the changes, Tim was always there. Reliable. Familiar. Part of my everyday rhythm. Some things in life don’t change, and that kind of consistency means more than words can say. Thanks, Timmy! Always smiling and always cracking jokes. 😀

I didn’t get a chance to take photos of my FedEx drivers - Mark, Lorenzo, and Jason (Express and Ground) but I know I’ll see them again next week during the transition. They spoil Cash with treats, and I know Cash will truly miss them. 🐾

I love shipping. Truly. I know it like the back of my hand, and I enjoy it as much as I love Reese's PB cups, Zumba, Brickhouse Pink Lotus, Americanos, and green tea. I love helping people. I love visiting. I don’t care who you are or where you’re from. I enjoy talking with you, listening to you, and being part of your day, even if just for a moment.

I even discovered that I enjoy dispatching U-Hauls (thank you very much, Darrin Smedsmo 😄). I broke a lot of nails doing it, but that just gave me an excuse for a mani and pedi so it all worked out. And yesterday, I dispatched my very last U-Haul. Thanks Jeremy U-Haul! I greatly appreciate all your help. ☺️

Yes, I complain about the cold, but I also dance outside while walking Cash. Our neighbors, Josh Wiskow and Micah from Sjoberg's Cable, can absolutely confirm that. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, they’ve seen me doing Zumba routines all around the property. One text and they always show up. Great neighbors. Even better friends.

I’ll miss the Roseau Fair and that one special week when the energy shifts and the town buzzes a little louder. I loved talking with the carnival folks and hearing their stories.

But more than anything, we will miss our customers.

YOU are what made Evergreen a happy, successful place - the lumberyard customers, the shipping customers, and the U-Haul customers. You are the reason the doors opened with purpose every morning. Your trust, your loyalty, your conversations, your laughter… you made the work meaningful. And you were never a bother - not with your lumber projects, not with Amazon returns, or questions big or small. Helping you was always a privilege. And honestly, Jeff Bezos should probably send us a gift because between all those Amazon returns, we basically helped pay for that very expensive wedding. 😄 And to our regular shipping account customers who trusted us year after year... thank you. You were part of the daily rhythm here. The familiar names, the repeat drop-offs, the quick hellos, and the ongoing trust meant more than you probably realized.

I’ll especially miss my Canadian customers who followed me from Ace, to Going Postal (yes, remember that place? 😂), and all the way to Evergreen....my loyal shipping family who spoiled me with Timbits, ketchup chips, and all the Canadian treats. Dwayne Gross and the Gross family, you truly have my heart. I’ve known you since my Ace days. Friends for life. ❤️

I’ll miss my big picture window, watching the sun rise in the east, looking up at the sky and thanking God every single morning for the blessings He gives us. Some mornings I cried, not from sadness, but because I felt so deeply lucky and grateful. Don’t get me wrong - there were challenges and hard times. But when things got loud, I learned to close my eyes, block out the noise, and ask God for guidance. And somehow, through it all, we’re still here.

When I moved here from San Diego, I didn’t know what to expect. I was a big-city girl... spoiled by my family, high-maintenance, loud, and outspoken. But my parents taught us good work ethic, resilience, and treat people with respect and kindness. I adapted. And I made lifelong friends I will always treasure. I’m a multitasker. I thrive on the rush. If it’s too quiet, I get antsy. I’ve always found joy in movement, purpose, and being needed.

Yesterday, I told a good friend I had one hour and thirty minutes left. He asked what I would do next. I said, “Eat a rare ribeye steak with a loaded baked potato and dessert.” He laughed and said, “I meant with your life.” Oohhh. 😂

That’s me. I plan for the future, but I live fully in the present because we don’t really know what the future holds. (And yes, I was starving too.)

Next Monday will be different. I won’t open the store at 8am. Cash won’t jump out of bed to greet every customer or get treats from the drivers. He won’t run off to Fleet Supply when the weather is nice. I won’t have Canadian customers bringing treats. I won’t go through the U.S.–Canada border gates as often (just ten minutes north) where the customs agents know me so well after years of trips to Steinbach and Winnipeg to eat, shop, and attend Zumba marathons. I won’t dispatch U-Hauls or wish travelers safe journeys.

These were the little things.

Good morning… let’s pause for a second. Seriously. Stop scrolling. Stop watching. Step away from the noise.

There’s so much coming at us right now, and a lot of it is meant to stir people up, divide us, and leave us exhausted. It’s loud. It’s biased. And it pulls us away from our own common sense.

Instead, check in with yourself. Listen to your heart and your gut. Ask what feels human. What feels decent. What feels right - and respectful - even if no one else is watching.

You don’t need constant outrage to stay informed. You don’t need anger to be strong. And you don’t need permission to choose kindness, empathy, and respect.

Check on your people. Take a breath. Let your values lead - not the algorithm.

OKAY Jack Frost…be honest. Did you forget to bring Elsa her favorite Timbits from Tim Hortons or what?! Or maybe she wanted DD? 🍩🥶

Because this feels PETTY.

21 below.

Feels like 50 below.

Until SUNDAY.

Everything’s basically shut down and the birds have officially clocked out.

Pretty sure Jack Frost and Elsa are in a lovers’ spat, and we’re the collateral damage.

And listen… she is the Snow Queen. So, whatever you did, you definitely pissed her off.

Make up already. Valentine’s Day is in 3 weeks, and nobody wants frostbite, chapped lips, and regret as a gift.

Sincerely,

Everyone hiding indoors questioning their life choices.

✨ Steve Wants Pancakes

One morning Steve looked at me and asked, “Can you make pancakes?”

And honestly… I could’ve just grabbed the Members Mark mix, added water, and made the boring version. But that’s not me. If I’m making breakfast, I’m making it good.

And let’s be real - I always cook with what I can find in my kitchen cupboard. I’m not running to the store at 8am just for pancakes. I use what I have but I elevate it.

And since we live 10 minutes from the Canadian border, you already know my kitchen is stocked with the good stuff. The free-range Canadian eggs that taste richer, cleaner, and honestly just better. Same with Canadian bread - way better than American because it doesn’t have a ton of preservatives. Don’t get me started… that’s a whole other story for another day 😅

So instead of following the “just add water” instructions, I did it the ForkPrints way: 1% milk, melted Imperial butter in the batter, a spoonful of maple syrup, vanilla… and of course, Kerrygold butter in the pan because flavor matters.

Just like that, the basic mix turned into the ForkPrints Signature Pancakes - thin, light, crepe-kissed, golden, and so good.

Steve took one bite, looked up, and said, “These are good.”

And that’s the moment I love - when something simple becomes something special… right in my own kitchen.

🥞 FORKPRINTS SIGNATURE PANCAKES

By Irene · Official & Elevated

This is the moment I love - when something simple becomes something special, right in my own kitchen.

Ingredients

1½ cups buttermilk pancake mix (Member’s Mark)

1 cup regular 1% milk

1 large free-range egg, room temperature (I used a Canadian egg)

3 tbsp Imperial butter, melted (for the batter)

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 tbsp Anderson’s Pure Maple Syrup (in the batter)

Kerrygold butter, for cooking

Under the Bark Syrup Co. – Bourbon & Cinnamon, for serving

Method

Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

Whisk gently until just combined; small lumps are perfect.

Let the batter rest 8 minutes.

Heat a lightly Kerrygold-buttered skillet over medium-low heat.

Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake.

Cook until bubbles form and edges are set.

Flip once and cook until lightly golden.

Serve warm with Bourbon & Cinnamon maple syrup.

Yield: 6 pancakes

✨ Substitutions Allowed (ForkPrints-Approved)

In my kitchen, I keep it specific. In yours, use what you have — but keep it quality.

Pancake Mix

I use Member’s Mark buttermilk pancake mix

Any buttermilk-style pancake mix may be substituted

Milk

If using half-and-half:

¾ cup half-and-half + ¼ cup water (closest to original)

OR ⅔ cup half-and-half + ⅓ cup water (slightly richer)

Butter

I use Imperial butter in the batter and Kerrygold butter for cooking

Any butter brand may be substituted

Maple Syrup

Batter: Anderson’s Pure Maple Syrup

Serving: Under the Bark Syrup Co. – Bourbon & Cinnamon

Substitution: any 100% pure maple syrup if needed

Egg

Large egg recommended; room temperature preferred

🚫 Not recommended

Pancake syrup or artificial maple flavor

Using undiluted half-and-half

Overmixing the batter

Just my thoughts this morning - after 3 cups of coffee, 2 cups of green tea, and listening to Craig Olson on Wild 102…

Despite our differences - political, religious, or whatever - we’re all human first. Different views, different paths, but the same hopes, fears, and need to belong.

A line from Stand by Me always sticks with me:

“I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve.”

Back in those days things were simpler. We didn’t agree on everything, but we knew how to coexist. People sometimes look at me strangely when I say I LOVED my HS years, but that’s because of my friends - the D’ Notorious Naughty Phynkz. Those years mattered because of them. And after all these years later, we’re still friends. That kind of bond stays with you.

Lately, there’s so much division and anger. Everyone wants answers

“You want the truth?” (A Few Good Men)

But being right isn’t the same as being decent. Sometimes what matters more is how we treat each other when we disagree. We don’t have to see eye to eye to show respect. No one here has the right to judge. It's not our job. That belongs to God alone.

A line from When Harry Met Sally, and NO! it's not the sandwich scene LOL.

“When you realize you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.”

You stop waiting around for things to change. You choose better. Less labeling. Less assuming. More grace. More kindness.

The Princess Bride has always been one of my all-time favorite films. To me, “As you wish” is about choosing love and respect without making it complicated.

ForkPrints Slow-Cooker Manwich Sloppy Joes The ForkPrints by Irene

Comfort food for cold days.

[Story starts here…]

The Story

This recipe came together on November 23rd, during Packers vs. Vikings - which, if you know, you know. We were also celebrating my Mama’s 85th birthday, so it was already a meaningful weekend. Steve was deer hunting in Alberta, Canada with his brother, so I hosted a small gathering in our lumberyard building with a few close friends, food on the table and football on the screen. I made this crockpot Manwich using what I had in the cupboard, seasoning the meat properly before adding the sauce and letting it cook low and slow. It wasn’t fancy or planned - just solid comfort food for a small group. Everyone liked it, went back for more, and no one reached for extra seasoning. That’s when I knew it worked.

ForkPrints Slow-Cooker Manwich Sloppy Joes

The ForkPrints by Irene

🥩 Ingredients

1–2 lbs ground beef (85% lean / 15% chuck)

1–2 cans Manwich sauce (depending on how saucy you like it)

Season the Meat First (Important)

Per pound of beef:

½–1 tsp salt

Several shakes black pepper

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

Optional:

1–2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Small sprinkle paprika or chili powder

Diced onions or green peppers

🍳 Instructions

1. Brown & Season the Beef

Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season while cooking. Taste before moving on - the meat should already taste good. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Transfer to Crockpot

Add seasoned beef to the crockpot. Stir in Manwich sauce until well combined.

3. Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

Low: 2–4 hours

High: 1–2 hours

Stir occasionally if you’re around.

4. Adjust & Serve

Too thick → add a splash of water or broth

Too thin → uncover for the last 15–20 minutes

Serve warm on toasted buns.

⭐ ForkPrints Notes

Using 85/15 ground chuck adds richness and depth.

Seasoning the meat before adding the sauce makes all the difference.

Simple food, done right, feeds people well.

A culinary story from The ForkPrints by Irene

Lil’ Smokies Irish Bread Breakfast Casserole

The ForkPrints by Irene

This came together during Thanksgiving weekend - one of those quiet, in-between moments when we were hungry and I didn’t really have a plan. I looked in the cupboard, checked the fridge, and decided to work with what I had instead of running to the store. Steve and our son, Lyle, became my very willing guinea pigs, tasting along the way as this dish slowly came together. I’m not a chef - I’m a foodie - and this casserole was built from instinct, patience, and a little trial and error. There were adjustments, questions, and even a brief moment of oven panic, but in the end, it turned into something comforting and satisfying. When Steve tasted it and didn’t reach for extra seasoning, I knew this one was a keeper. This became my very first crafted recipe under The ForkPrints by Irene - made from what I had and made with heart.

Lil’ Smokies Irish Bread Breakfast Casserole

The ForkPrints by Irene

Cozy, rustic, comforting, and husband and son-approved - my very first original ForkPrints recipe.

🥚 Ingredients

Egg Custard

10 free-range eggs

½ cup canned coconut milk (well mixed)

½ cup water

1 teaspoon sea salt (or ¾ tsp seasoned salt)

¼ teaspoon coarse-ground black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Bread Base

6–8 cups cubed Irish bread (Dry at 300°F for 8–10 minutes if soft)

Smokies

1 (14 oz) package Lil’ Smokies, sliced in half

Brown 2–3 minutes with a tiny pinch of garlic powder

Cheese Topping

2 cups total cheese, any mix of:

Mexican-style blend

Monterey Jack

Mission Jack (cut into small pieces if not shredded)

🍳 Instructions

Step 1 — Grease the Pan

Lightly grease or spray a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2 — Prepare the Bread

Cube Irish bread into 1-inch pieces. Dry in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes if soft. Spread evenly in the baking dish.

Step 3 — Prepare the Smokies

Slice each Lil’ Smokie in half. Brown lightly in a skillet for 2–3 minutes with a tiny pinch of garlic powder. Distribute evenly over the bread.

Step 4 — Make the Egg Custard

Whisk the eggs first. Add sea salt, coarse black pepper, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth. Add coconut milk and water and whisk until fully blended and creamy.

Step 5 — Assemble

Pour egg mixture slowly and evenly over bread and smokies. Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the custard. Make sure nothing is floating.

Step 6 — Add Cheese

Sprinkle cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7 — Bake (Convection Oven)

Bake at 325°F for 30–45 minutes. Check at 30 minutes:

Top melted and lightly golden

Center set (no liquid jiggle)

Tent loosely with foil only if browning too fast.

Step 8 — Rest

Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

⭐ Notes

Husband and son-approved flavor - add extra salt or pepper if needed. My son added siracha. He loves spice.

Irish bread creates a hearty, brunch-style texture.

Coconut milk adds richness without coconut flavor.

Browning the smokies adds depth and savory balance.

Perfect for brunch, holidays, potlucks, or cozy Sundays.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Fresh fruit on the side

Coffee, matcha tea, or fresh juice

Optional garnish: parsley, chives, or green onion

📊 Nutrition (Per 1/12 Serving – Approximate)

Calories: ~320

Protein: ~14 g

Carbohydrates: ~20 g

Fat: ~23 g

Fiber: 1–2 g

Sugars: Low

Sophie Kinsella passed away… and I’m suddenly remembering the girl I used to be.

The San Diego girl who stayed out clubbing until the lights came on. The girl who didn’t call home - because she didn’t know where the night would take her. The girl who booked flights just to breathe different air… another state, another country, another version of herself.

Becky Bloomwood wasn’t just a character. She was the reflection of my chaos, my glitter, my wanderlust, my hopeful delusion that everything would fall into place.

And then life shifted.

I moved to Roseau, built a different kind of life, found roots, love, steadiness… and a new version of myself.

Sophie captured that wild chapter of girlhood so perfectly that losing her feels like losing the narrator of those bright, messy, beautiful years.