March 16, 2026

Dear Carefree Quail Community,

Today I am tasked with writing a weekly post for the “Just for Fun” newsletter. Which was meant to be a way to share something with readers and followers to enjoy, make you think, or challenge you in some way.

I want to do that… but I can not pretend that I am not in pain.

I got the call no one wants to hear. My single, younger sister was found dead in the family home… because she didn’t show up for work. She never missed work!!

She fought cancer for 12 brave years with a few really close calls… but with all that hard work, even with no return of the cancer in the past seven years, her body, soul, and spirit just quietly said:

“I am done.”

She leaves a big hole in our family and community. She literally worked until the day she died. She knew and produced the best Norwegian treats at all the family holiday gatherings.

Her name was Merry. …Yes, that is the correct spelling.

In honor of my sister, I will be posting recipes and stories that I hope and pray will inspire, teach, encourage, or maybe make you laugh, because her name was Merry.

I miss you, sis, and all the possibilities.❤️

Thanks

Lois

The Carefree Quail

P.S. Rice pudding recipe down below ❤️

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Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

¾ cup white rice, uncooked

2 cups milk divided (1½ and ½)

⅓ cup sugar

¼ teaspoon salt

1 egg, beaten

⅔ cup raisins

1 tablespoon butter

½ teaspoon vanilla

Instructions:

1. Bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil with 3/4 cup rice. Let boil for 1 minute.

2. Turn down the heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.

3. Combine cooked rice with 1 1/2 cups milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat 15-20 minutes.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the rest of the milk, beaten egg, and raisins. Add to the cooked rice in small batches, stirring frequently, to temper the eggs so they don’t become clumpy. (Do not add the ingredients separately)

5. Cook for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, add butter and vanilla. stir until butter is melted and fully incorporated.

6. Top with whipped cream, cinnamon, or your favorite warm spices, and enjoy!