The excitement of discovery is what draws us to wander. Our travels have taken us to the far corners of our home state of Texas as well as the diversity of the fascinating states of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Florida and Massachusetts.
Join us here as we share some of the special moments we have encountered through our photos and essays.

Ms. Joan’s Kitchen
homemade has brown pottoes

Slow Cooker Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Here at LoneStar Travelers we love to have dinner cooking while we are enjoying the outdoors. Today's slow cooker is the answer to free up more of your time. These are not your Mother's crock pot. Lightweight, contemporary looking and affordable they are easy to use and feature digital LED displays, cooking temperature indicator lights and a timer. Many switch over automatically to a warm only cycle when the cooking is completed. I prefer a 5 quart size even if preparing a small recipe. It heats up faster and cooks well, thoroughly blending flavors.
Tip: Use a slow cooker liner available in the paper/plastic wrap section of your super market. Makes clean up a breeze.

*****Ingredients*****

Saute' ground beef and sausage in skillet until browned.
Drain fat and add meat to slow cooker.
Brown onion then garlic in skillet and add to slow cooker.
Set the timer on your slow cooker. 5 hours is plenty of time.
During last hour of cooking time add bell pepper and seasonings.
Serve over hot cooked pasta.
Sprinkle on grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.