I’m on a quest to find some friendly people. I’ve noticed over the past couple of months that I rarely get a “thank you” when I visit certain businesses. Sometimes I say “Thanks” when they give me back my change, and they say, “You’re welcome.” What?

Starting next week, I’m going to see how many places say “Thank you” and keep a list of where I can eat and shop. I may be taking a sandwich for lunch and ordering on line. No, I think there’s still some friendly people out there, and I intend to find them. Wish me luck because I love to eat out, and I must shop.

I realized last Sunday that it’s official. My daughter, Sarah, and her family are living in Texas. We always invited them over for Sunday dinner, and last week it hit home that they weren’t coming. I fixed meatloaf. Sarah hates meatloaf, and I would never have done that if they were here. I still have trouble talking about it without tears popping up. The night before they left, my husband, Chris, told our grandson, Atlas, that he would always be as close as a phone call and then recited his phone number for Atlas. Sarah called last week and put Atlas on speaker phone as he recited Chris’ phone number. I’m not sure he understands what it is but if he’s ever lost, they can always call Poppy.

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. Are you dining out? I have a friend that when asked what she’s making for dinner always answers “reservations.” Or are you dining in? Maybe fixing that favorite meal that’s saved for special occasions? Either way, I hope you have a very special day. We will be spending the evening with friends and the Duke Mason Band at Granny Shaffer’s. Good food and good music — what’s not to like?

I had a wonderful visit with Carol Parker and everyone at KSN last week. One of the dishes I took was the antipasto salad from the “Favorite Name Brands Pasta Collection” cookbook. It’s really easy, and I like that it’s a little different. Most salads call for dry ranch dressing but this one uses zesty Italian. And it’s really pretty when it’s served. This makes a large amount, but leftovers are good! The vegetarian chili is from the “Biggest Book of Slow Cooker Recipes.” It’s easy to put together in the morning and ready for dinner when you get home. And who doesn’t like ice-cream sandwiches? Make your own with the chocolate cookie sandwiches recipe from “The Chocolate Cake Mix Doctor” cookbook. They freeze individually so they are ready whenever you are.

Have a wonderful week. THANK YOU for reading and happy eating!

Antipasto salad

1 cup salad dressing (Miracle Whip)

1/2 cup milk

2 (2.6-ounce) packages Good Seasons zesty Italian salad dressing mix

5 1/3 cups (1 pound) mostaccioli, cooked and drained

1 (8-ounce) package cotto salami slices, cut into strips

1 (8-ounce) package mozzarella cheese, cubed

3/4 cup thin red pepper strips