Glad you're feeling better, Cookie.

I myself have had my Sciatica kick-in the last couple of days. It's killing me. UGH. The dull-pain in my right hip and the shooting pains down into my leg and foot are darned near debilitating. Last night I couldn't even sit in a chair or drive my car. Awful. Usually lasts about a week- and pops-up 1-2 times per year out of nowhere. Ick.

Im glad your feeling better Cookie.
Ill join the cowd here..I have lower back problems myself.

Lordy- are we all practically a bunch of old nursing-home patients, or what? Ha! (OUCH! I can't laugh- when I do my right cheek hurts too much!)

Are we all falling apart??? Not good!
Time to pull out the Geritol! LOL

As far as the risotto goes - congratulations! I knew it would be just fine.

Try making your risotto with turkey or chicken broth, leftover turkey, a bit of sage, and some dried cranberries.

And you can cook your rice with your stock and add a cup or so of tomato puree.

Add some onion, a bit of olive oil, garlic, a couple chilies, splash of lemon and prawns.

Add about 1/3 c. white wine with your broth, Parm, and about 1/2 c. heavy cream for a creamy version.

Add blanched asparagus (slice), sundried tomato, diced chicken.

Add mushrooms, peas, shrimp, Parm.

Hope this gives you a few ideas.

BTW - never be afraid to use feta, Asiago, Jack or pepper jack, etc.

Thanks Mama I copied you post to the recipe I used for the risotto so they will be together.