Feeling a Little Blue: Tips for Saving Energy and Money

Meow, dear friends. Today, I come to you with a heavy heart, although I must confess, I can’t quite put my paw on why. Perhaps it’s the change in the weather or the way the sunlight dances through the window. Whatever it is, I’m feeling a little down. But fear not, for even in my melancholy state, I still have some valuable tips to share with you.

 

1. 1. Let the Sun Shine In: Embrace the natural light during the day and turn off unnecessary lights to save on energy.

1. 1. Unplug and Save: When not in use, unplug electronic devices and appliances to avoid phantom energy usage.

1. 1. Seal the Cracks: Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal them to prevent heat loss in the winter and cool air loss in the summer.

1. 1. Upgrade Wisely: Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

1. 1. Thermostat Tricks: Use a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature based on your schedule, saving energy when you’re away from home.

And now, to lift our spirits with some comfort food for the soul. How about a hearty serving of Grill-Smoked Three Cheese Queso Dip with a twist of ground beef, jalapeños, and red bell peppers? Let the aroma of smoky goodness fill the air and bring warmth to our hearts.

Grill-Smoked Three Cheese Queso Dip Recipe:

Ingredients:

 

• • 1 pound ground beef

• • 2 jalapeños, diced

• • 1 red bell pepper, diced

• • 1 tablespoon olive oil

• • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1 whole block of Velveeta cheese

• • 1 cup milk

• • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• • 1 teaspoon chili powder

• • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• • Salt and pepper to taste

• • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions:

 

1. 1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

1. 1. Add diced jalapeños and red bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

1. 1. In a small bowl, whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth. Pour into the skillet with the beef and vegetables.

1. 1. Add shredded cheeses and Velveeta to the skillet and stir until melted and creamy.

1. 1. Season the queso dip with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. 1. Transfer the queso dip to a heatproof dish and place it on the preheated grill.

1. 1. Close the grill lid and smoke the queso dip for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned on top.

1. 1. Serve hot with tortilla chips and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Let’s savor this moment together, my dear friends. And remember, even in the darkest of times, there’s always a glimmer of hope and a bowl of queso to lift our spirits. 🐾