Overtime and Overreach By Dialecticdreamer/Sarah Williams Part 1 of 1, complete Word count (story only): [Evening of Friday, 10 November of 2017]
:: Jules is working later than usual, when he has another encounter with the strange woman he’d spoken to at lunch meets him as he leaves the records room. It’s not a great time for either of them, but Jules is surprised to find supportive strangers. Part of the Lodestar story arc in the Polychrome Heroics universe. ::
At eight p.m., Jules’ phone alarm chirruped.
He groaned, straightening up from the small stacks of paper arrayed around him in a half circle on the floor. Two rows of thin stacks made a grid of the remaining floor space, with just enough space for him to place his feet, carefully, between them. Small blue scraps of painter’s tape showed which open places were large enough for him to walk. ( Read more... )
This is your check-in post for today. The poll will be open from midnight Universal or Zulu Time (8pm Eastern Time) on Wednesday May 06, to midnight on Thursday, May 07. (8pm Eastern Time).
I have been spinning most days, especially when it's sunny and the light pours in through the windows. I can feel my shoulders relax as I sit in the warmth and focus on the fibre in my hands.
NASA has released more than 12,000 images from the Artemis 2 mission on its website. They are a collection of views of Earth and the moon that the astronauts captured while aboard their spacecraft, Integrity. The website is here. Note that a high interest in the images has caused the website to go offline numerous times since NASA released the pictures.
Your tax dollars at work, doing something that isn't monstrous.
Today is cloudy and cool. It rained again last night.
I fed the birds. I've seen a few sparrows and house finches.
I put out some potted plants to get ... well, what sun there is through the clouds.
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I did a bit of work around the patio.
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I did more work around the patio.
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I did more work around the patio.
I've seen a large mixed flock of sparrows and house finches, a pair of rose-breasted grosbeaks, a male cardinal, a brown thrasher, and a fox squirrel. :D
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I did some bushwhacking in the yard.
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I planted a persimmon tree in the forest yard.
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I did some bushwhacking in the yard. There are more dead branches down too, some small enough to move easily, others big enough that all I could do was drag it more-or-less out of the way.
EDIT 5/6/26 -- I planted the second persimmon tree in the forest yard.
Hello to all members, passers-by, curious onlookers, and shy lurkers, and welcome to our regular daily check-in post. Just leave a comment below to let us know how your current projects are progressing, or even if they're not.
Checking in is NOT compulsory, check in as often or as seldom as you want, this community isn't about pressure it's about encouragement, motivation, and support. Crafting is meant to be fun, and what's more fun than sharing achievements and seeing the wonderful things everyone else is creating?
There may also occasionally be questions, but again you don't have to answer them, they're just a way of getting to know each other a bit better.
This Week's Question: What do you wish you could get right first time, every time?
If anyone has any questions of their own about the community, or suggestions for tags, questions to be asked on the check-in posts, or if anyone is interested in playing check-in host for a week here on the community, which would entail putting up the daily check-in posts and responding to comments, go to the Questions & Suggestions post and leave a comment.
This poem came out of the May 5, 2026 Poetry Fishbowl. It was inspired by a prompt from gs_silva. It also fills the "loss" square in my 5-1-26 card for the Greek Myth Fest. This poem belongs to the series Polychrome Heroics. It follows "Determine Where You Start," so read that first or this won't make much sense.
Warning: This poem contains some intense and controversial topics. Highlight to read the more detailed warnings, some of which are spoilers. It includes the aftermath of acquired disability, a complete change of planned career, loss, abandonment, feeling left out, loneliness, reconnecting with an old friend, emotional upheaval, identity issues, and other challenges. If these are sensitive issues for you, please consider your tastes and headspace before moving onward.
This microfunded poem is being posted one verse at a time, as donations come in to cover them. The rate is $0.50/line, so $5 will reveal 10 new lines, and so forth. There is a permanent donation button on my profile page, or you can contact me for other arrangements. You can also ask me about the number of lines per verse, if you want to fund a certain number of verses. So far sponsors include: gs_silva, janetmiles
FULLY FUNDED 170 lines, Buy It Now = $85 Amount donated = $3 Verses posted = 2 of 55 Amount remaining to fund fully = $82 Amount needed to fund next verse = $2 Amount needed to fund the verse after that = $2
"Paid features are the only way to support Dreamwidth financially, but people who want these services can't always get them for financial or logistical reasons. Thanks to donor pledges, we can now provide points to as many as 68 people, but in order for this to work, people need to step forward! Follow the link above to find out more. Donors and giftees both participate anonymously through screened comments." [---8<---] "Remember, paid features is the only way to support Dreamwidth financially. Having giftees means we give Dreamwidth financial resources for all they do."
Last week, millions of Albertans learned personal information like their full names, addresses and contact information were made available in a searchable database posted by separatist group the Centurion Project.
The list was legally obtained from Elections Alberta by the Alberta Republican Party. However that information is not to be shared with third parties, and it remains unclear how it ended up in the hands of the Centurion Project.
If the only way it could have gotten to Centurion is by way of the Republicans, then they should be liable for damages. If the Elections office may have been breached, that's a different issue. Looks like America isn't the only post-privacy, post-boundaries society.
There’s truly nothing like a classic meatloaf, and this Meatloaf Casserole turns that comfort food favorite into a full meal in one baking dish! It starts with a tender ground beef meatloaf layer, gets brushed with a sweet-tangy ketchup glaze, and finishes with creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheddar cheese on top. But my favorite part? This recipe is ready in just under an hour, and for less than $10, you can get dinner for 6 on the table! I love this meatloaf casserole as is, but it’s also wonderful served alongside a fresh salad or with a helping of steamed peas, just like my mama always did.
Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
I think of this casserole as my extra-cozy shortcut to a full meatloaf dinner. It reminds me of cottage pie because of the creamy mashed potato topping, but the bottom layer is all classic meatloaf: ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and our go-to ketchup-mustard glaze.
Baking the meatloaf layer first keeps the base tender but sliceable, and it also gives the glaze a chance to caramelize slightly before the mashed potatoes and cheddar are added. While it bakes, you can mash the potatoes, wash the prep dishes, and have the kitchen mostly cleaned up before dinner even hits the table, which is my favorite kind of weeknight recipe! By the time it comes out of the oven for the second time, the cheddar is melted into the potatoes, and every slice feels extra hearty and satisfying. YUM.
Jennie Alley from our Nashville Test Kitchen prepping her meatloaf casserole for the oven in March 2026
Recipe Success Tips
Use a light hand with the beef. I mix with my hands or a fork and stop as soon as everything is evenly mixed in. The more you handle ground beef, the more its proteins bind together, which can make the meatloaf layer firm and dense instead of tender.
Don’t skip the egg, milk, and breadcrumbs! The egg helps bind everything together, while the milk hydrates the breadcrumbs and adds moisture to the meat mix. Chicken or beef broth will also work in place of the milk if that’s what you have on hand!
Make the mashed potatoes while the meat layer bakes. This keeps the recipe moving and gives you time to clean up before the casserole goes back into the oven. Mash the potatoes while they’re still warm, and stop once they’re smooth and creamy. Overmixing can make them gluey.
Adjust the glaze to your taste. I sometimes swap the ketchup for BBQ sauce for a ketchup-free glaze! As for the mustard, it helps to balance the glaze and is only a subtle flavor. You can leave the mustard out if you prefer.
Expect a little shrinkage! The meatloaf layer may pull away from the edges of the dish as it bakes because the beef releases moisture and fat as it cooks. You can carefully drain off some of the fat if you’d like, though I don’t usually bother. When you add the mashed potatoes, just spread them into any gaps around the edges.
Let it rest before slicing. I always give this meatloaf casserole about 5 minutes to settle after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, the layers firm up a bit, and the slices come out cleaner.
This easy Meatloaf Casserole recipe gives you classic meatloaf, mashed potatoes, a tangy glaze, and cheddar cheese in one hearty, family-friendly dish!
1lb.russet potatoespeeled and diced, (about 2 potatoes) $0.49**
2Tbspsalted butter28g, $0.19
⅓cupwhole milk2.7 fl oz., $0.09
1cupcheddar cheeseshredded, (56g) $0.92
2green onionsthinly sliced, $0.24
Instructions
Gather and prep your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, garlic, 1 tsp Worcestershire, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix gently to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and the remaining 2 tsp Worcestershire and set aside.
Press the meat mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.
Brush half of the ketchup mixture evenly on top of the meat. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160° F.
Meanwhile, place diced potatoes in a medium-sized pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 12–15 minutes until tender. Drain.
Mash potatoes with butter, milk, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper until smooth and creamy.
After the first bake, brush the remaining ketchup glaze over the meatloaf.***
Spread the mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf, then sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake 10-12 more minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Optional: broil for 1-2 minutes for a lightly browned top.
Sprinkle green onion slices over the casserole. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
*I like to use 80/20 ground beef for the price and because it keeps the meatloaf layer flavorful and juicy. Some grease will render during the first bake. You can carefully drain it before adding the second glaze if desired.**These Russet potatoes are priced by a 5 lb bag. Buying in bulk can save money. Store in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh for several weeks. I don’t recommend storing potatoes in the fridge, since cold temperatures can affect their flavor and texture.***The meat may shrink slightly during the first bake; this is normal. Gaps can be filled with mashed potato topping for an even layer.
how to make Meatloaf Casserole step-by-step photos
Gather and prepare all of your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Make the meatloaf mixture: In a medium bowl, combine 1 lb. ground beef, ⅓ cup Italian breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, ¼ cup whole milk, ½ small finely diced onion, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a fork just until everything is combined. Try not to overwork the meat mixture. Overworking ground beef can make it cook up dense instead of tender.
Make the glaze: Now whisk together ½ cup ketchup, 1 Tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp yellow mustard, and the remaining 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. Set the glaze aside.
Assemble the meat layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared 8×8 baking dish. Make sure it reaches the corners and is level across the top so it cooks evenly.
Add the glaze and bake: Brush half of the ketchup glaze over the meat, spreading it all the way to the edges. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The glaze should look darker and slightly tacky on top.
Make the mashed potatoes: Meanwhile, add 1 lb. peeled and diced russet potatoes to a medium pot. Cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well so the potato topping doesn’t turn watery.
Mash the drained potatoes with 2 Tbsp salted butter, ⅓ cup whole milk, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper until smooth and creamy. I like to mash while the potatoes are still hot and add the milk gradually for the fluffiest potato topping!
Add the final glaze: If the meat has rendered a lot of fat, you can carefully spoon off or drain any excess grease from the dish (if desired). The meat may shrink during baking; this is normal! I just cover the gaps with the mashed potatoes when it’s time to spread them on top. Now brush the remaining ketchup glaze over the meat layer.
Add the mashed potato topping: Spoon the mashed potatoes over the glazed meatloaf filling and gently spread them into an even layer.
Make it cheesy: Now sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Melt the cheese: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden in spots. For a more browned top, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely so the cheese doesn’t burn.
Finish and serve: Sprinkle 2 thinly sliced green onions over the top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing so the layers can settle and hold together better. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf casserole is already meat and potatoes in one cozy dish, so I usually add something green and call it a day! I especially love peas or sautéed green beans with this for a super easy, weeknight-friendly dinner. A simple green salad and homemade dinner rolls are easy additions that keep the meal classic and comforting. For a little extra flavor, I sometimes make some brown gravy or drizzle a bit more ketchup over the top before serving. I also add roasted cauliflower or air fryer carrots when I want another warm veggie on the table.
Storage & Reheating
This meatloaf casserole stores well for meal prep! Cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings or keep it whole in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just keep in mind that mashed potatoes can turn a little grainy after freezing, so the texture may be slightly different once reheated.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes (longer if frozen). For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring or rotating halfway through.
Try These Classic Casserole Recipes Next:
Tuna Noodle Casserole is pure comfort food with a creamy homemade sauce, tender noodles, and a buttery, crunchy topping.
I make this Chicken and Rice Casserole on the regular because it’s just SO easy and honestly never gets old.
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole gives you creamy, cheesy comfort with just enough green to call it balanced! 😉
Love casseroles? Take a look at all our favorite casserole recipes and find your new weeknight win!
Title: Parenting Problems Fandom: Torchwood Author: badly_knitted Characters: Ianto, Twins, Flufflets. Rating: PG Word Count: 1322 Spoilers: Nada. Summary: Teaching the twins to be gentle and considerate is an uphill battle. Content Notes: None needed Written For: Challenge 514: Gentle. Disclaimer: I don’t own Torchwood, or the characters.
2) Booked my museum tickets for my trips in a fortnight (I didn't expect this to be neccesary nut apparently with the renovations going on, it was advisable)
2 (15 oz/425 g) cans of chickpeas, drained (17 oz/480 g total) 11 garlic cloves, peeled, 10 left whole and 1 minced 1 oz (30 g) fresh ginger, peeled and julienned 14 oz (400 g) datterini or regular cherry tomatoes 3 small Fresno chiles, mild or spicy, with a slit cut down their length 1 Tbsp. tomato paste 2 tsp. cumin seeds, roughly crushed with a mortar and pestle 2 tsp. coriander seeds, roughly crushed with a mortar and pestle ½ tsp. ground turmeric ½ tsp. chile flakes 2 tsp. red Kashmiri chile powder 1 tsp. sugar ¾ cup plus 2 Tbsp. (200 ml) olive oil ⅔ cup (180 g) Greek yogurt ¾ cup (15 g) mint leaves 1½ cups (30 g) cilantro, roughly chopped 2–3 limes (juiced to get 1 Tbsp. and the rest cut into wedges to serve) Salt
Step 1 - Preheat the oven to 350° F. Step 2 - Put the chickpeas, whole garlic cloves, ginger, tomatoes, chiles, tomato paste, spices, sugar, oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt into a large, oven-safe sauté pan, for which you have a lid, and mix everything together to combine. Step 3 - Cover with the lid, transfer to the oven and cook for 75 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the aromatics have softened and the tomatoes have nicely broken down. Step 4 - Meanwhile, put the yogurt, mint, cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, and ¼ teaspoon of salt into a food processor and blitz until smooth and the herbs are finely chopped. Step 5 - Serve the chickpeas directly from the pan, with the yogurt and lime wedges alongside.
Note:
Jarred or canned butter beans (lima beans) would be great here! No Kashmiri chile powder? Use an equal amount of paprika instead.
Comment with Just One Thing you've accomplished in the last 24 hours or so. It doesn't have to be a hard thing, or even a thing that you think is particularly awesome. Just a thing that you did.
Feel free to share more than one thing if you're feeling particularly accomplished! Extra credit: find someone in the comments and give them props for what they achieved!
Nothing is too big, too small, too strange or too cryptic. And in case you'd rather do this in private, anonymous comments are screened. I will only unscreen if you ask me to.
Good news includes all the things which make us happy or otherwise feel good. It can be personal or public. We never know when something wonderful will happen, and when it does, most people want to share it with someone. It's disappointing when nobody is there to appreciate it. Happily, blogging allows us to share our joys and pat each other on the back.
What good news have you had recently? Are you anticipating any more? Have you found a cute picture or a video that makes you smile? Is there anything your online friends could do to make your life a little happier?
Lunch Lurch By Dialecticdreamer/Sarah Williams Part 4 of 4, complete Word count (story only): 1206 [Midafternoon of Friday, 10 November of 2017]
:: During Jules’ lunch break, he receives an urgent call. His decision will cost him, no matter which choice he makes. Part of the Lodestar arc in the Polychrome Heroics Universe.
Jules studied the older woman’s face for a full minute before he spoke again. “I’ll help you work things out with Griffin,” he murmured, but each word was crystal clear.
“Thank you,” Loudmouth agreed. Her throat worked, and after a breath, she said, “There’s a matter still to be decided between the two of us, though.” Her index finger flicked between pointing at him and pointing at herself. She smirked. “It’s nothing bad.” ( Read more... )
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
dialecticdreamer
![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png){kind=small}
![[syndicated profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/feed.png){kind=small}
