tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340829842024-03-13T10:13:07.269-05:00Country PleasuresAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.comBlogger942125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-58319776858469334232015-06-20T17:36:00.002-05:002015-06-20T17:36:46.112-05:00My Daddy had a caddy....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMtFjJnUzbP3mXW4rm39YYnU4XXIRGPPD3GGFzOlprjQ0TIvDUQfIKkJpNCXI_4aBJqbXZTsCz6JFit5LYrqM8cVdydj3v2YwPbZe3ZE6Rxxg32_8hgH-w9HkOP7pss9Q3hmAww/s1600/DSC_01735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMtFjJnUzbP3mXW4rm39YYnU4XXIRGPPD3GGFzOlprjQ0TIvDUQfIKkJpNCXI_4aBJqbXZTsCz6JFit5LYrqM8cVdydj3v2YwPbZe3ZE6Rxxg32_8hgH-w9HkOP7pss9Q3hmAww/s320/DSC_01735.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My Daddy had a caddy for each of his daughters, to remember the year they born or just the love of the car alone, either way, his passion for such cars remains in me. It's just one of the traits that I'm happy I inherited, that and gardening. So, whenever I see a caddy but especially a 59, I know my Daddy is smiling in heaven. Father's day we honor the men in our lives that make up the hood of father's, and sometimes it's the single Mom that must play both roles, or the Dad working 2 jobs to support his children. The look of Father's day may have changed over the years but never the memories tied to it, or the ones that are being made, everyday! Happy Father's Day!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-53181570630922901062015-05-14T08:07:00.000-05:002015-05-14T08:07:57.273-05:00See, I have been busy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRgd-RXKhN15-aUIvjGwfTs-iRRiupQ3LMeEcp9PQSmNEn4-z6E7rY2zs40SuEyjQ4DRmtiC4PJX_l-ExcX4I5uV4Q2daRIWakcOkyKIxcjRtLeNqP-APu_jqPuFIu7bwmTMG05A/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRgd-RXKhN15-aUIvjGwfTs-iRRiupQ3LMeEcp9PQSmNEn4-z6E7rY2zs40SuEyjQ4DRmtiC4PJX_l-ExcX4I5uV4Q2daRIWakcOkyKIxcjRtLeNqP-APu_jqPuFIu7bwmTMG05A/s320/DSC_0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is proof how one thing can lead to another, or in this case, a whole new look! Our kitchen floor was getting "spongy" in spots, and after this winter, seemed to be worse, so we thought we had better take a look. Since the vinyl flooring we laid 7 yrs. ago had some wear and a tear from the last repairman, we were prepared to lay all new. After 3 layers under what we laid, we found a rotten joist, so that got replaced along with a sister beam for added support. That took up the first day, and the dust was EVERYWHERE!<br />
We went with a laminate flooring that would be more durable, so since the wood grain pattern had some streaks of black in it and I have been wanting to paint the worn cabinets for years, I went for it and painted the cabinets black with chalk paint that I made from a recipe on Pinterest. I wasn't about to pay $30 or more for a quart of premade when it only cost me $12 to make one. And I LOVE chalk paint, it really does cover anything and with no prep, no sanding, I had 2 coats on them in a matter of days! Where has chalk paint been all my life??<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZGOnjtZ7G_oQ6C1D4s2ZnfqQC6OFGmzYoCi2qFBMsuzOhWxe14oa03J8A3KM0HK1TVr3sLqQn4qKDgJCnvPj3_8AhJC5y5uOC46FB1WGKAsVimuxPmYDIrQbsh0i9M02quvkbg/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZGOnjtZ7G_oQ6C1D4s2ZnfqQC6OFGmzYoCi2qFBMsuzOhWxe14oa03J8A3KM0HK1TVr3sLqQn4qKDgJCnvPj3_8AhJC5y5uOC46FB1WGKAsVimuxPmYDIrQbsh0i9M02quvkbg/s320/DSC_0023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
From there came a new window, another on my wish list, now I can see out, which makes me feel taller and I can open it without the use of a stool! I knew I wanted some barn wood in this makeover so I had my handyman husband make a frame around the window with old wood and above too, really sets off my vintage pendant light and Edison bulb! So, while we were this far in, I changed the back splash also, why not! I used planks of wainscoting that could be cut to fit, the whole back splash only cost me $30. I painted it a antique white, we also put it around the cabinet that houses the microwave, painted it black. We also made and painted all new baseboards black to tie it all in, and the icing on the cake here is my little table in the middle that I painted and distressed the antique white, it did have a old maple finish but this is just perfect! The only things left alone were the boarder and wall color but this make over gave me my farm style kitchen, until the real one comes our way!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-66392734089902914402015-04-21T07:44:00.001-05:002015-04-21T07:44:35.151-05:00Pinterest Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJRwyBXeAhasaHMYUke5dOSBHQWcYRbEPjU3uGR9rW704ZEoiughjlSWvOhx_3AZkxfdb9-pPV-J0prS3bmLQEecgKnSzH7lf-9Ef_I-7K_QIXBgdaOzuBEiFJ29aay4YnB2dLw/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJRwyBXeAhasaHMYUke5dOSBHQWcYRbEPjU3uGR9rW704ZEoiughjlSWvOhx_3AZkxfdb9-pPV-J0prS3bmLQEecgKnSzH7lf-9Ef_I-7K_QIXBgdaOzuBEiFJ29aay4YnB2dLw/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" height="106" width="320" /></a></div>
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To say my plate is full is a understatement but I'm accepting each challenge and getting stuff done! This little desk has been with me almost 20 years, the last 8 spent in the shed, housing wasps, so when our grandkids from Kentucky made a quick trip home over the weekend, I knew I had to make this over for our 3 year old, Miss Ellie. Another Pinterest project that was a hit, she loves it! I just don't know why it took me so long to do something with this old desk!<br />
In other notes, were re-doing our kitchen, the floor was spongy in spots so after tearing up three layers of old coverings, we found chipboard that was dust with a joist in bad shape. I hate chipboard ! Long story short, last weekend was spent replacing the sub floor, and laying new laminate....which lead to making new baseboards, replacing the little window over the sink ( I can see out now) and painting the worn cabinets! The befores and afters will be another post! Funny, how one thing leads to another, or a few! But I'm excited over the new kitchen, farmhouse style!<br />
The food blog is doing good, finding time to post more is slow but it will get better once this big project is done. It's getting good hits from all over! If you haven't checked it out yet, come visit me at <a href="http://www.diningondelicious.com/">Dining </a>on Delicious. This blog is still going strong in spite of my absent days but I still can't get my comments to show up??? But my stats show I'm still getting the traffic as much as ever?? If anyone has any idea how I can get my comments to post, please help! lol <br />
The weather has kept us from getting the garden in, just potatoes so far, but were hopeful next week will be dry enough to do so. It will all be ok! Thank you again for sticking with me, you are the best!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-31307544987248050562015-03-06T07:50:00.002-06:002015-03-06T07:50:33.535-06:00Dining on Delicious<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wNsKkZOO3oH7y9sTa4M_mNcw_jlenxG8ROgh0OERSiq6dONdus12QBmKF7l8T3y-ayELMl5Q6tW5gV1umHmh5yLK2uewGCt8KI1j-cGnoF4_f-pIdAt4UDoT3PrlYcc-Lc88Ig/s1600/DSC_0087dod2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wNsKkZOO3oH7y9sTa4M_mNcw_jlenxG8ROgh0OERSiq6dONdus12QBmKF7l8T3y-ayELMl5Q6tW5gV1umHmh5yLK2uewGCt8KI1j-cGnoF4_f-pIdAt4UDoT3PrlYcc-Lc88Ig/s1600/DSC_0087dod2.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hard work does pay off! For the last few months I have been trying to hack into my own account, for some reason I couldn't access it no matter what I did, but I kept at it and finally yesterday, I got it straightened out, I hope! While I've been gone, all my free time has been fine tuning my other blog, the food blog! Inventing recipes, cooking, taste testing and learning the tricks of food photography, has all been daunting but I'm learning, as I go! Maybe one year, I can hire a website designer and turn over all this stuff to them but for now, I'm on my own.<br />
I do have my facebook, twitter and google plus accounts all set up for the food blog, that was a huge lesson in being social but needed to get the word out. Last week, I made this amazing pie, you won't believe what is in it, and for the record, you can't taste the pinto beans! Check out the chocolate pinto bean pie I came up with, being thrifty pays off! Now that I have my account back, I'll be back, fair warning, with more recipes to<a href="http://www.diningondelicious.com/"> dine on delicious</a>! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-61646203349637029172015-02-13T07:14:00.000-06:002015-02-13T07:14:01.566-06:00A New Direction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I've done it! Good or bad, I've done it! I've been blogging for 10 years now, wow! But, I'm not getting any younger, so I'm taking my know how ( if you can call it that) to another direction and am working on a food bloggers website! I may feel like the Julia Child of the food bloggers, getting a late start, but I've learned that it is truly never too late, so I'm listening to the nudges and turning my newspaper gig into a website!<br />
It's still a work in progress, I'm self taught, I don't don't know a thing about html or web design either but I'm paid up for the first year with WordPress and will try to do it alone, next year, I may have to hire a designer, but until then, I'll work at creating the best little food blog my knowledge will allow! I'd love your input, ideas and support, so please check me out at <a href="http://www.diningondelicious.com/">Dining on Delicious</a>! And just in time for Valentines Day is my favorite chocolate cake recipe, it's taking chocolate to the extreme and why not, it's all about love and who doesn't love a good chocolate cake?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-59952749316870564912015-01-20T14:53:00.000-06:002015-01-20T14:53:59.910-06:00Growth and Graditude <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDzlc8iB0H4_DyV6xlAPDHPJRGAEU88M33OufU8itgqYDKuv4IAyMXeog-ciwM41GyA34X1bl9N7g5SbHYjz7ZUAJCqaFY3eqgwXWbzV8LdU0AwPDdNOPQGntlBEWLqDVzpbmGg/s1600/10906083_10204346272594724_8877669213426464478_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDzlc8iB0H4_DyV6xlAPDHPJRGAEU88M33OufU8itgqYDKuv4IAyMXeog-ciwM41GyA34X1bl9N7g5SbHYjz7ZUAJCqaFY3eqgwXWbzV8LdU0AwPDdNOPQGntlBEWLqDVzpbmGg/s1600/10906083_10204346272594724_8877669213426464478_n.jpg" height="251" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, I'm still here, been working on my website, I'm going dot com with my newspaper articles/own recipes and chasing that dream of becoming a food blogger! I've secured a name and domain and I'm using the word press format to post, I'm learning as I go and finding it harder than I thought but I'm not giving up!! I've had several people tell me I should write a cookbook, so hopefully this way will be a bit easier to start with, since I'm self taught here! Your never too old to learn something new, with that said, I do feel like the Julia Child of the food bloggers, getting a late start but it is what it is! Wish me luck!<br />
2015 is already proving to be a busy year, we have our 7th grand baby due in August plus son #2 is getting married sometime this year, so we will be adding 3 to our family this year alone, I think we will need a bigger house, that will make us at 20 now! It might be time to find that big ole farmhouse of my dreams too!<br />
My sweet hubby got me a new camera for Christmas, he called it a investment so I've been learning how to use it so I can take better shots of food for my website, and make my sweet husband proud! Sometimes you just got to go for it, so keep a eye out for the reveal soon! Busy is the new sexy!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-11486737513473902802014-12-25T07:52:00.001-06:002014-12-25T07:52:35.792-06:00MERRY all the WAY!<div style="background-color: white; color: grey; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Christmas is the day </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">that holds all time together.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Alexander Smith</span></div>
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From my home, blog, garden and heart, may your Christmas be bright and the new year be even brighter!! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-34648394408431871652014-12-15T07:29:00.001-06:002014-12-15T07:29:34.018-06:00His & Her Jams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;"> Here we are, less than 2 weeks till Christmas, are you still needing some gift ideas? I've come up with his and her jams. The perfect gift for those really hard to buy for people on your list. My annual Christmas jam is sweet and festive and easy to make and can be dressed up for the occasion.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;" /><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #940f04; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 22px;">Christmas Jam</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #940f04; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 22px;"><br />2 c. cranberries<br />1 orange, peeled & quartered<br />16 oz. frozen strawberries, thawed<br />3 c. sugar<br />3 oz. liquid pectin<br />5 half pint jars (ready to fill)<br />Coarsely grind cranberries and orange sections in a food processor. Spoon into a heavy saucepan, add strawberries and sugar. Bring mixture to a full boil, stirring for one min. Remove from heat and stir in pectin, skim off foam. Pour into prepared jars and process for 10 min. Makes 5- 1/2 pints</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;"> And for the man who LOVES bacon, this bacon jam will make him squeal with delight! I must admit, when I seen this on Pinterest my first thought was "not another bacon recipe", I love bacon but this whole bacon craze is getting out of control ( bacon toothpaste, really!) but I may even try this, might be good hamburgers!</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;" /><br />
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bacon Jam</span></h3>
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<u><a href="http://www.tideandthyme.com/" style="color: #20aab1; text-decoration: none;">From Tide and Thyme</a></u></div>
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<em style="color: #679c2f;">Yields 1 pint</em></div>
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1 pound smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces<br />4 cloves garlic, minced<br />1 medium onion, sliced<br />1 tablespoon dark brown sugar<br />1 tablespoon hot sauce<br />1 cup coffee<br />1/4 cup apple cider vinegar<br />1/4 cup maple syrup<br />Black pepper to taste<br />extra water</div>
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In a dutch oven, fry the bacon in batches until lightly browned and beginning to crisp. Remove to paper towel lined plate and set aside. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease out of the pan.</div>
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Fry the onion and garlic in the rendered bacon fat on medium heat until translucent.</div>
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Add the bacon to the onions and garlic, and add the rest of the ingredients except for the water. Simmer for 2 hours adding 1/4 of a cup of water every 25-30 minutes or so, and stir regularly.</div>
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Jam is done when you can’t tell the onions from the bacon. Cool for about 15-20 minutes and then place in a food processor. Pulse for 2-3 seconds so that you leave some texture to the “jam”. Refrigerate up to two weeks.</div>
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There you have it, the perfect gifts for when you run out of ideas or money! I'm curious and will be trying this recipe, may even surprise the boys with a jar! Have fun in the kitchen, baking up some love this afternoon too! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-30681864161923288662014-12-09T08:06:00.002-06:002014-12-09T08:06:40.976-06:00Tis the Season....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here we are, the final few weeks of the year and my blog is messed up! Ever since connecting it to Google Plus, there's no way for comments to be left here or even a setting for me to correct that? So, after the holidays, I'll be re-vamping this blog into something new and hopefully exciting for 2015! On the bright side, my Google Plus page has over 4 million hits since I started it over 6 months ago! Got to love stats!!<br />
I've had one amazing year!! We gained a grand daughter and son in law, making our family a grand total of 19, 20 if you count Ruger, and we do! My personal life has exploded in creative ways to express myself, and after decades of wishing, my writing gig came true! I'm enjoying writing about cooking and gardening in my local newspaper, I've got so many ideas to run with! My photography still keeps my eye on everything, it really has changed the way I see the world, insight is 20/20!<br />
Family and friends continue to bless our life, good health is something you must work at, in this age bracket and chasing those dreams can be reachable! I hope everyone has a memorable year to share, even the small things can turn into big blessings! Merry Christmas!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-51768293034142997462014-11-08T10:35:00.002-06:002014-11-08T10:35:41.867-06:00Apple Peel Jelly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9QyKtLF8vy9dzWPshGd2WwRSUn1XefNOfRRijSE4fJ2DOJzr8CiUFfRiCjvcV4tqvcRhaLCG5z9keTmwEWskFy5C1_-RtRs_tA8Je0t44PEppUgMT_rC_i1NYKw1f7XjFOOA0g/s1600/PicMonkey+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9QyKtLF8vy9dzWPshGd2WwRSUn1XefNOfRRijSE4fJ2DOJzr8CiUFfRiCjvcV4tqvcRhaLCG5z9keTmwEWskFy5C1_-RtRs_tA8Je0t44PEppUgMT_rC_i1NYKw1f7XjFOOA0g/s1600/PicMonkey+Photo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6399993896484px;" /> I'm cooking up apples this morning, for pies and jelly, not to waste a thing! When it's all said and done, the cows will get a treat as well! Try this recipe next time you make a apple pie, add some cinnamon red hots and your jelly will have a sweet kick to it! Happy harvest!!!<br />
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Apple Peel Jelly<br />
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4 c firmly packed apple peels</div>
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5 c water</div>
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1 1/2 c sugar</div>
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1 tbsp lemon juice</div>
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In covered stainless steel saucepan, bring peels and water to boil. Reduce heat: uncover; simmer 20 minutes. Strain through jelly bag of cheesecloth.(Do not squeeze or you'll have cloudy jelly). Measure juice (you should have about 2 cups); return to same saucepan. Stir in sugar and lemon juice. Bring to boil over medium heat; cook rapidly, uncovered, stirring, remove saucepan from heat. Pour immediately into 2 sterilized 6 oz jelly jars. skim off foam; cover; cool;store in refrigerator. Makes 2 6 oz. jars.</div>
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If you'd like a pretty red jelly, just add some red food coloring to the jelly when you return the juice to the saucepan, but either way, it's a good, cheap and a extra treat from your apple harvest. It's good to be thrifty! Enjoy!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-90004679140916368142014-11-08T06:53:00.001-06:002014-11-08T06:53:43.276-06:00We Survived the Wedding! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm still tired, but she's wed and we've gained another son! It really is true, how a woman is at her most finest glory on her wedding day, and our Heather was just that! The whole family gathered and worked to make this day just perfect! We are truly blessed!!<br />
Families grow, adding outsiders that seem to fit right in, when you think about it, it's amazing isn't it! Time is more than a moment, it's a universe! All the fuss, projects and labor aided this new union to start off a lifetime of happiness! Aren't weddings special!<br />
Now, onto the holidays, a new web project and the winter season, which I do believe was meant for resting and planning! We may of survived the wedding, but I'm not ready to let up on life just yet! Stay tuned!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-78151481995787618632014-10-14T14:28:00.000-05:002014-10-14T14:28:03.788-05:00Boiled Cider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now that you've made your vanilla for the upcoming baking season, have you ever made boiled cider? This stuff will change your life! Also known as apple molasses, boiled cider has become a autumn tradition at my house, we love it on biscuits, pancakes, warm bread from the oven and it's a must drizzled over apple pie! Super easy to make too, start off with a small batch and once you get a feel for the process, you will be boiling a whole gallon down, like I did over the weekend. Patience is key, it does take a couple of hours to cook down and be sure to stir it now and then so it won't stick. Just put 8 cups apple cider in a stock pot and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until it's boiled down to a thick sauce, once cooled store in the fridge where it will thicken up some more. A gallon of cider makes one quart of apple molasses, and a little does go a long way. It's the best thing since butter, I promise!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-76550975556660000432014-10-07T14:25:00.000-05:002014-10-07T14:25:25.133-05:00Time to Restock! <h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="background-color: white; font-family: cursive; font-size: 22px; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://countrypleasures.blogspot.com/2013/09/homemade-vanilla.html" style="color: #20aab1; text-decoration: none;">Homemade Vanilla</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VLBOpCnKE3G7mcYnjhDiWz3KdkBWaogm5wW11dJK_XIuN-OXwu6cNIatrgcHq7MP2c-iyJPtgVn-awUEvPQiu1AOxwAQfdnjbSaWFqOPh7T4NZ32pzL0EEuKp9akk7UfwW9SZg/s1600/bottle-with-vanilla-beans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #20aab1; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VLBOpCnKE3G7mcYnjhDiWz3KdkBWaogm5wW11dJK_XIuN-OXwu6cNIatrgcHq7MP2c-iyJPtgVn-awUEvPQiu1AOxwAQfdnjbSaWFqOPh7T4NZ32pzL0EEuKp9akk7UfwW9SZg/s320/bottle-with-vanilla-beans.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 170, 177); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;"> </span><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><span style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;"> I'm cheating today and repeating a annual post because it's that time, time to make your own vanilla extract for the upcoming baking seasons! So, if your one of my loyal followers, this is just a gentle reminder for you, and for the rest of you, welcome to the "make your own" club, I promise once you make your own vanilla and bake with it, you won't go back to the imitation or store bought stuff! </span><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><span style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;"> This is super easy too, so don't stress but do have patience because the longer you allow this to steep, the richer your vanilla will be, that's why I like to start now or earlier so I have it ready, it's my secret ingredient in all my baked goods, but don't tell anyone, pinkie swear!</span><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><span style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;">Homemade Vanilla Extract</span><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 25px;">There really are no recipes for this, ok, there are if you do a search but once you figure out your favorite ratio it's a piece of cake. The budget comes to mind here too, because your source for the vanilla beans might change your mind, but shop around. I get mine from a local health food store that sells them by the pound, but since I only use 4, it only costs me $3.50. And I know, to some, that is alot for vanilla beans, but believe me when I tell you, it makes a HUGE difference in your baked goods. And if your like me who bakes for other's and gift giving, it all adds into it. And if you price the real vanilla, you will see this way is much cheaper and you'll have a big bottle that usually lasts me till the next fall, depending on how much I bake.<br /><br />Ok, this part isn't my favorite so I usually have my hubby do it or I'll add to my groceries one week. You will need a big bottle of vodka (750 ml) or brandy, both work well, but I think the vodka is cheaper, here anyways. Now, just slice your beans down the middle length wise and you can either scrap out the seeds or leave them in. I leave them in adding to the flavor and if some gets included in a recipe, they will never know. Just place the split beans into the bottle of vodka or you can put both into a pretty decanter like I do. Then, just shake it up daily for the next 2 months, keep in a dark place while the vanilla beans mix with the vodka to become vanilla extract.</span><br style="font-family: Unkempt; line-height: 24px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Unkempt; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 25px;"> This makes a lovely gift for those bakers on your Christmas list too, wrapped in a pretty bottle or jar with a vintage printed label, tied off in a festive ribbon or bow! This is one of those finer things in life, so spoil your taste buds and make your own in time for the best baking season ever!!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-84177444729702143262014-10-01T14:22:00.000-05:002014-10-01T14:22:05.451-05:00Seasonal Shift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's finally October, but time won't be slowing down for me until the new year, but I'm not complaining! Our youngest is getting married Nov.1 so there is alot to do yet, plus our annual fall fun nite here at the homestead is next weekend, complete with pony rides this year! Personally, I'm growing and I've taken the advice of a few and I'm working on going dot com with a website that will combine my newspaper articles, so that is exciting, frustrating too, I'm doing all by myself! I've always said I like a good challenge and this may be it! But, you know, if you don't take a risk, you may never know and I don't want to wonder or miss a opportunity to go global. I'll keep this blog and will try to get more posts up, I do have some re-runs coming soon, those seasonal posts that are always a good reminder, for me too! The shift has begun, in more ways than one but it's all, life is good and needs to be celebrated, every chance we get!!!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-51157284771526772622014-09-09T08:22:00.002-05:002014-09-09T08:22:39.237-05:00Free to Fab!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Blogging has been slow, taking a back seat to life and a new project, so sit back and check out my new prop for my photo shoots! Found on a freebie site on Facebook, I was first to snag this free chair, it's sturdy, somewhat clean and would look great in a field of flowers for a photo shoot, or in front of a barn. The ideas ran through my head as I headed to town to pick it up! After inspecting it closer, the bottom seat was iffy, so my handyman hubby made me a new one. I had 4 different fabrics in mind for the seat cover but went with the heaviest one, to hold up longer. Then the fun began finding the perfect trim, I had it all along in my stash, along with the fabric. All I had to buy was a small can of paint and stuffing, I spent less than $10 on it.<br />
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And I love how it turned out! But then, another idea ran through my already crowded mind, have my handyman make another seat so I can change them out, he's in the process and probably hopes I don't find anymore freebies/projects for awhile! He's a good sport though and I couldn't do it all without him! By the way, yes I spray painted the back cushion, it was much easier and worked out great! I love a good freebie!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-65480584325131373032014-08-17T16:46:00.000-05:002014-08-18T07:35:59.110-05:00 Passions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The kids are back to school and summer is heating up, after a mild reminder that life does have a way of equaling it's self out! The garden is a hot mess, how quickly the weeds can take over if you miss a weeding or two...maybe three? But, it's been very productive, and the summer has been one of my favorites by far! Made another batch of salsa yesterday and picked a good pound of elderberries too, those got picked over and placed in the freezer for a flu syrup this fall, there are more to ripen and I hope to get to them before the wasps do. Spaghetti sauce and ketchup has also been made from our tomatoes, my basil and dill are both huge, great crops this year, must be all the rain and milder temps. Yummy corn and tons of potato's have feed us many meals so far, with more to dig, then sweet potato's will be ready! Harvest of happiness to say the least! It's been the best gardening season ever! Even the wild flowers have been blessed by this summer's weather and reprieve. I've been using basil and cilantro in all my cupboards since I have so much, I just cut a bunch and throw it in the back of each cupboard, it's been keeping the country mice at bay. I love those scents of summer!<br />
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Another passion of mine has been keeping me busy as well, and last weekend I had a wedding to shoot, my ex husband and his third wife. I was his first, he was my second and so on...but we are all friends, and if a marriage has to dissolve, the friendship shouldn't, especially if children are apart of the union, as in our case. We have 2 sons together, his only children and I'm so glad we were able to show them how love really works. This is just one of my favorite shots from their wedding, it speaks without words, like life at times. I hope your summer has been full of passions, flowers, harvests and family! Love life!<br />
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If you'd like to see more of my photography and this wedding, check out my Facebook page:<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/shotsbysue">Shots by Sue</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-58504072846914122142014-08-08T15:22:00.002-05:002014-08-08T15:22:38.197-05:00My Space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Remember that social media hub, we'll I'm not talking about that, I was never into My Space but I am into this space of mine, my craft room/office that under went a little makeover recently. Top photo shows different curtains from my stash, love the checks! I also got rid of my corner desk and opted for a fold up table I already had, now I have 5 more feet of work space where I type from, sorry it's not in the shot!<br />
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This huge and heavy cubby shelf was kept outside till I bought it, originally for a future greenhouse but since that project won't be built till next spring, I got the notion of bringing it inside for all my fabric and stuff, so I painted it blue and at the risk of a hernia, my awesome husband got it in the house, it weighs a ton and a half, maybe 2! But, for $20 I knew I had to have it and it's perfect in here! Of course, when you rearrange, you have to find a new home for old things so the hutch that used to sit here is now in our bedroom and right at home! It's the little things in life that make you happy, and the big blue beast is a big one!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-41584990364750470622014-08-04T15:13:00.002-05:002014-08-14T07:46:27.466-05:00Pickles and Politics! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What a busy summer this has been, not only is the garden heating up, so are the politics here in Missouri! We vote tomorrow on many issues but the one I'm mainly concerned with is Amendment One. We already have the right to farm, but due to the tricky wording on this bill, many will vote yes thinking it will keep that right, but it won't! If passed, big corporations and outside companies can buy up Missouri land, allow Monsanto to take over and control farms. Not only that, but even small family farms will be affected, all the way down to our drinking water that could be contaminated if unsafe meat producers are allowed in. I'm voting no, to keep my right to farm/garden in the way the current bill allows. It's a shame big government has to trick us with vague wording to get us to vote their way! I'm a small voter who will fight to keep my rights to garden and raise chickens!<br />
The garden has been the best one ever, I can't remember a summer that has been so nice with rains just when we need them. The kitchen is a busy room with produce being processed weekly: salsa, sauce, pesto and pickles, alot of pickles! I can't imagine not having a garden, fresh and organic produce for our family is priceless! I can only hope and pray that everyone reads the ballot good tomorrow, and not rush through it! One wrong vote could change everything! Pickles aren't the only thing fermenting!<br />
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UPDATE: We lost by half of a percent! But, there is rumor of a recount so were still hopeful. At least this tight margin supports a second look and has made the concern aware and out there!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-60775101225380449022014-07-23T13:28:00.003-05:002014-07-23T13:28:51.549-05:00One Heck of a Surprise! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What do you get 2 little girls who are hard to buy for? A surprise pony party of course! A friend of mine has a therapy horse program that she takes to nursing homes, community events and parties of all kinds! Jenny and her ponies are wonderful, very professional and eager to teach anyone interested in the ways of the ponies. Her program is called Mini Blessings, and she was a big blessing to us, as I had kept the party a surprise from the grandkids, and the look on their faces and the fun they had made my day!<br />
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My oldest grand daughter May, above, thought she was too big to ride, she wasn't and loved it! Now, she's interested in helping Jenny and learning more, and of course she now wants a pony but this girl loves animals and is so down to earth, makes my heart smile! So, if your ever stuck for a unique gift idea for the kids or grandkids please consider something like this and if your in my area, look up Mini Blessings Horse Therapy on Facebook. Jenny and her boys are just wonderful and the ponies are adorable!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-88768525499659915132014-07-14T13:49:00.001-05:002014-07-14T13:49:25.808-05:00Good Intentions! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I sit here, only because I'm grounded from a allergic reaction from a red wasp sting yesterday, but I have been meaning to update sooner than this, I had good intentions! Really! Truth be told, I've been thinking about re-vamping this blog, it turns 10 next year and it may be time for a change? True, I'm busy elsewhere, as we all are and I don't want it to become stale so bare with me, your patience will be rewarded!<br />
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A quick update, the summer has been a odd one, we get a couple of days of normal or above temps, followed by a cool front and rain, needless to say, our garden is the best it's ever been here! I've even created a potting station ( above) or should I say, more space to put plants! A lean-to greenhouse is in the works, a birthday gift from my handy man hubby. My photography and newspaper gig are both going well and keeping me inspired. And we have a wedding in the fall, our daughter so there will alot to do there but life is good, busy is good. Thank you all sticking with me, I have the best of intentions!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-73442584628550592532014-06-09T14:40:00.001-05:002014-06-09T14:40:23.727-05:00Are You Man Enough? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here I sit, missing for a couple of weeks in my hectic but wonderful life that I'm blessed to be living and it's almost Father's Day! June is on the same race track as May was, or is it that I'm just getting old and time is speeding up? Your probably wondering about my post title? I'm choosing to write about a subject matter that effects ALL women and most men, yet they don't get the credit or attention, it's menopause, and is your husband man enough to handle it in a loving way? I'm 54 and I first noticed the little signs years ago, things like not having to shave my legs that often, I was cranky for no reason or my eye sight wasn't as good as it once was. Last fall, on a routine doctor visit, I had him check my hormone levels in a blood test, positive! I knew that but wanted someone else to tell me. Then the hot flashes started, nothing too harsh or unmanageable. One day this winter, I woke up and had a pooch of a tummy, not to be confused with my pooch of a gut, that I've always had, it was little and now I don't mind it but this monster under my breasts has to go! It's uncomfortable and unsightly! Now, I'm noticing women my age and older with a belly bump and not of the baby kind, it's almost like were marked! The hot flashes have been upgraded to night sweats that can happen any time of the day or night, paired with this belly bump, I'm miserable!<br />
I'm not completely sure if my husband understands just what I'm going through, but he is patience and keeps apologizing for it, a hug helps too! Were in this together, it's written in our marriage vows but it's not fair! It's called MENopause but we women go through this, it's no journey or curse but as long as my husband continues to be patience, we shall survive this too! My Mother never spoke of it or how it was for her, I wish now I had asked, it seems her's will effect yours, so ask your Mom and take notes, it may come in handy for your daughters too! So ladies, this is where I am, I'd like to think I'm on the other side of this phase but were all different and I'm thankful for that! I'm armed with herbs and natural ways to keep my sanity, doing more sit ups than ever and praying harder! Puberty was a piece of cake!<br />
So, when you wish your man a Happy Father's day this Sunday, remind him of your vows and ask him if he's man enough! Keep him wondering!<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-29845941010693914082014-05-23T14:58:00.001-05:002014-05-23T14:58:45.061-05:00Dream Chaser & Catcher! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a dream, many really with some coming true like I never thought they would! I'm having a pretty good year, my photography has taken off, for the last few months, I've been sharing a recipe weekly on the food page of my local newspaper, and now I have my own garden column " Garden Thyme" every Wednesday! I'm so excited!!! I'm eager to dig in and cover some new content, I feel like most publications recycle their articles and I'm craving some new information and ideas! I hope to explore all issues regarding gardening, there's so much more to it than plant, weed and water. I'm still sharing a recipe each week, and I love a good challenge, so deadlines will not scare me nor will the boots I have to fill, Jim Long used to supply the garden column, but the newspaper is revamping the page and I'm honored to be apart of it! So, you see, you are NEVER too old to chase and catch your dreams! Just don't give up, anything is possible and I'm proof of that! I'm not a expert gardener but I am a learner and I share well with others! I'll be adding some of my articles here too, and you can always check me out online at <a href="http://www.westplainsdailyquill.net/">West Plains Daily Quill</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-30730746649461088112014-05-14T15:00:00.000-05:002014-05-14T15:00:05.583-05:00Blackberry Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's cold, wet and May! Ozarkians call it blackberry winter, a cold snap when the blackberries are in bloom, yep! But it's green, so very green! I've been sick, busy and blessed. I did a engagement photo shoot over the weekend at this famous mill here, this place never gets old and I must say, a perfect spot for a photo shoot! The garden is loving the 3 inches of rain so far, the chicken coop is slick as snot and fun at all. The weeds will take over at rapid rate once the sun comes out, leaving our chores in overtime. But, we had all winter, a long winter, to relax so no complaints here, even if I have to turn the heater back on tonight! And how is life in your lane?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-85448445687975866522014-05-07T14:40:00.001-05:002014-05-07T14:40:57.015-05:00Gardeners Unite! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently read a negative editorial on gardening, this editor went on in great length about all the work, pain, complaints and found everything wrong with gardening, he wasn't even happy to get the harvest, too much work! This kinda offended me, and got to wonder what kind of person would bash a farmer? I took offense and I only supply food for our family, but it's a labor of love!<br />
With the new age movements making gardening and homesteading hip again, I'm using my blog to encourage MORE to garden! Everyone likes to eat, and you haven't eaten a true tomato until you've had a heirloom tomato that farmers grew in the 1800's, with no chemicals, that's real food! Am I a farmer, heck no, but I do feed my family from a garden, eggs from the coop and I'm aiding Mother Nature by supplying host plants for butterflies and bees. The beauty I'm adding by planting flowers is adding to our home investment and it makes me happy! The herbs I grow are used for medicine, cooking, cleaning, and pest control. We are organic and it's working, so maybe I am a farmer of sorts? There is alot more to gardening than complaining about the sore back, the weeding or the bugs, it's a way of life, one that we can trust and have faith in. The weather, on the other hand, is a beast of it's own, and that is the biggest obstacle this season.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34082984.post-20176510379636644332014-04-30T14:59:00.001-05:002014-04-30T15:02:18.131-05:00Mother's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If it seems like I'm posting more recipes than ever, I am! The weather is back to being cold which keeps me tucked inside looking for a excuse to have the oven on! But, the garden is about 60% in, now just hoping for no freeze warnings tonight! As you know, this hutch of mine gets all decked out for each holiday or season and Mother's Day is one of my favorites, honoring the Moms in our family, past and present. So, below is next week's recipe, a classic chocolate treat that is good for breakfast or dessert!<br />
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<span style="font-family: HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Mom's don't always get the credit they deserve, but they can get breakfast in bed at least once a year! Begin Mother's Day with a famous breakfast staple of the Ozarks, chocolate gravy! This depression era recipe is rich in taste and history, and quite common in the Ozarks, so treat your Mom to some chocolate for breakfast or dessert, either way, she will be one happy mama! </span><br />
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5605" style="font-family: HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5604">Chocolate Gravy over Biscuits</span></div>
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5611" style="font-family: HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5610">Biscuits: homemade or canned, country style </span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5612">1 cup sugar</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5614">1 Tablespoon butter</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5616">1 1/2 cups milk</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5618">2 Tablespoons flour</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5620">3 Tablespoons unsweeten cocoa powder</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1398887444622_5622">Mix all dry ingredients in a large saucepan and whisk till blended then add milk slowly, mix together well, no lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thick. Remove from heat, add butter and stir in until melted. Serve over hot biscuits and enjoy! </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11747268325270933661noreply@blogger.com1