Courtesy of Nicole Cooper

ASPARAGUS, GRUYERE AND ONION SAVORY WAFFLES

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven 350°F. Arrange onions and asparagus in a single layer on greased baking pan; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast until asparagus turns bright green (crunchy) or lightly browned (softer), approximately 6 -12 minutes. Cool slightly; reserve ¼ cup vegetable mixture for topping. 2. Preheat greased waffle iron. Separate 3 eggs. Whisk flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper and remaining salt. Add milk, 3 egg yolks and melted butter; mix gently but thoroughly. Stir in remaining onion and asparagus mixture and ¾ cup shredded cheese. 3. In another bowl, beat 3 egg whites on high until soft peaks form. Fold into waffle batter. Bake waffles according to manufacturer’s directions until golden brown. 4. Meanwhile, coat large skillet with cooking spray, cook hamuntil heated through; keep warm. In same skillet, fry remaining eggs until yolks set. To serve, top waffle with ham and 1 egg. Sprinkle with reserved onion and asparagus, and remaining ¼ cup cheese.

• 1 bunch green onions, finely chopped

• 16 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into ¼-inch • 9 large eggs, room temp. • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 tablespoon baking powder • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper • 1½ cups 2% milk • 6 tablespoons butter, melted • 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded • 1 fully cooked boneless ham steak (12 ounces), cubed • salt and pepper (to taste)

RIDDLES

It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.

What falls, but never needs a bandage? The rain. How does the sun listen to music? On the ray-dio. What is a cow’s favourite holiday? Moo-ther’s Day . What kind of bow looks best when it’s wet? A rainbow. What do you call a snowman in May? A puddle. (hopefully)

— Anonymous

KEEPING YOUR HOME PET FRIENDLY AND STILL STYLISH

Pets can become important family members and making sure they have a comfortable and safe space in your home, while at the same time not completely distracting from the décor, is important. Here are some tips and tricks to make your home pet friendly yet still stylish. 1. Slipcovers on furniture can help save delicate fabric from pet paws, hair and other damage. They can also be easily washed and replaced if needed. 2. Consider removing carpet and replacing with a waterproof vinyl flooring or ceramic tiles as they’re both easy to clean and are typically more durable. 3. Gates can help keep some pets confined into certain areas while you’re away or while guests are over. Look for a pressure mounted version or a free standing one depending on the size and agility of your pet. 4. A crate can be very functional and there are options available on the market where the crate is incorporated into a coffee table or end table which is more functional and stylish. The same goes for aquariums and terrariums as they can be incorporated into a table, dresser or similar furniture piece. 5. Water and food dishes come in a multitude of styles, finding one that matches the decor of your home is relatively easy. 6. Rubber brushes and lint rollers can be your best friend if your pet sheds. Keep them by the door so you can give yourself a quick brush off before leaving the house.