This "staycation" is working out great, and it’s so nice to be able to just work in the kitchen and experiment a bit. Which is what I’ve been up to the last few days. Remember that recipe I mentioned for Rosemary Turkey Meatloaf from AllRecipes? Such a winner and so good! It’s the balsamic vinegar and fresh rosemary that make the difference and I now have eight nice slices in the freezer for meals down the road. The only change I did make was to reduce the amount of glaze; you really only need about half the amount they recommend. But to each his own, and it was fine with the reduced amount. I’m also one of those people who love a cold meatloaf sandwich, so this stays high on the list of recipes to make again...soon!

   Also took the time to work on a friends recipe for pound cake and lighten it up just a bit. It’s a standard pound cake recipe, but instead of sour cream, try using yogurt. I just love the Cabot low-fat Greek Vanilla Bean Yogurt and use that a lot; when I do, I leave out the vanilla extract and use lemon extract instead. Great flavor. I also used an egg substitute for the 6 eggs the recipe calls for. And instead of 3 cups of sugar, I used the Domino Light Sugar and Stevia Blend so I only had to use a cup and a half. The only thing I didn’t change (simply because it was pouring and I wasn’t in the mood to run up to the store) was the butter, and did use the full two sticks. So not too bad for a day off when the weather wasn’t picture perfect, but what came out of the oven was. Now what can I experiment with next?! Send me your suggestions anytime to ann.kelly@coxinc.com.

   This weekend, Tampa Bay Watch could use more volunteers for the Great Bay Scallop Search; they especially need those of you who have the shallow draft boats to check on the scallop population along with snorkelers. It's happening Saturday morning at 9 am, and registered volunteers will be meeting at the Ft DeSoto boat ramp in Tierra Verde  for instructions and to pick up equipment. If you have the time to help, call (727) 867-8166, ext 233

   Please also remember that we still need your help in the fight against hunger here in Tampa Bay. Many offices have a day of service when they take on a challenge in the community, and many groups do the same. So now is the time to pitch in and help with Feeding Children Everywhere. Here at Cox Media Group, we’re asking you to join in The Florida Packing Event August 25th-30th. There are various shifts available, and no matter if you’re with a group or just coming by yourself, you are welcome and appreciated. Just click here for more information and to register. And thank you

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

"This is my invariable advice to people: Learn how to cook- try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!" - Julia Child