I am not sure when it happened, but Barilla Pasta became as important in our household as Diet Coke, Bread and Cats. It’s an unhealthy addiction for me and most likely the reason for my percentage over ideal weight on my morning adventure on the bathroom scale. Hint: did you know that Barilla Shells are a great quick lunch fix just by adding a couple pats of butter, some shredded cheddar and a T-spoon of milk…its fast, its creamy and it satisfies my “need”.

Reading the Ames, Iowa Regional Economic Alliance magazine – winter addition, I announce with Pride that the Ames Barilla Plant opened in 1998 – the company’s first production site in the United States – and has since become one of its largest and most advanced facilities worldwide. The plant produces roughly 1.2 million BOXES of pasta every single day…processing more than 700 tons of wheat in the process….BTW that raw wheat grown across the Midwest. So..think about that when you are questioning the importance of farmers…Holding my comments about the US Government and their priorities. This is where reality meets political BS.

At any rate. This huge Barilla plant along I35 is a landmark for me as my turnoff for home in North Ames. Without pause, I give thanks for Pasta and what it has meant in my life. Quick menu ideas, Comfort and the excuse to go clothes shopping to find cute pants with elastic waste.

Until next time….