Random Facts Friday: March 9, 2011

Can you believe we turn our clocks forward in 2 days? No, me neither.
I say we should be more like nature and follow its natural course, or at least turn our clocks forward
closer to summer. But at least it is Friday! And we can let our brains drift, starting with these random
facts.

1. Which came first, Scotch tape(known originally as Cellulose Tape) or masking tape? Masking tape, which was invented in 1925. Scotch tape, which by the way was invented by the same man (Richard Drew) came along 5 years later in 1930.

2. The first St. Patrick Day Parade was in New York City in 1766. It wasn’t until 1995 that Dublin got one when the Irish government decided it would help boost tourism. The day in Ireland is really considered a religious holiday where many attend church.

3. The most popular fruit in the U.S. is: Apples. Followed by Bananas, Pineapples, Papayas, Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Plums, Peaches, and Pears.

4. The first of the modern Olympic Games was in 1896 in Athens. There were fewer than 500 athletes representing 13 nations. The first Winter Olympics were held in 1924 in France.


5. Everyone has their version of a fresh layered salad using peas. This may be a good time to have it around St. Patrick's Day. The versions I have seen on the web have a slightly different dressing than mine. See what your think. Of course it is easy to add a layer of any fresh vegetable you like. But don't forget the green peas!

Layers, bottom to top:
1 head of lettuce, cut into bite size pieces        
1/2 cup of chopped green onions          
2 cups chilled peas (I use fresh or frozen)
1/2 lb. fried bacon, bite sized          
2 cups of cubed Velveeta or shredded cheddar
6 hard cooked eggs, diced

Dressing:
1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 cup of ranch dressing

Mix the 3 ingredients together and spread over salad. This should be the last layer. Chill and serve.