HOW MY SISTER-IN-LAW ASKS ME TO DO SOMETHING

My sister-in-law Jean is the kindest, most generous person I know and I frequently lean on her to make cupcakes, fudge, etc. for bake sales, breakfasts and fundraisers for my various organizations. I call her and she is always agreeable.

Last week she called and asked me for my recipe for LAYERED LETTUCE SALAD, one of my signature dishes. Mine has 9 layers, unlike the common 7-layer salad. She told me that she was committed to making several dishes for her granddaughter's graduation party. I began to rattle off the ingredients and when I mentioned water chestnuts she sighed and said, "Oh, I thought I had everything; I'll have to go back to the store."

Well, DUH, Sue! I then realized that I should have volunteered to make it! I said, "I already have all the stuff; would you like for me to make it?" She said, "Oh, honey, if you would that would take a lot off me." She then told me how worn out she was.

I told her, "Well, you know I'm dense, you should just TELL me if you want me to do something--just as I do you!" Did I also mention that she is NICER than I am?

LAYERED LETTUCE SALAD

In a 9 X 13 dish, layer the following ingredients in the order given:

1/2 head lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1 can sliced water chestnuts, well drained
1 package frozen peas (do not cook)
3 cups Miracle Whip
4 hard-cooked eggs, grated
salt and pepper to taste
4 tomatoes, diced
1 jar McCormick bacon bits

Refrigerate at least 4 hours. Can be made the night before serving.