tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35308369966000072162024-03-05T03:09:42.924-08:00Hooks & JamsA glimpse into my simple, domestic life - canning, baking, sewing, needlework, and music!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-4803854730497597722017-05-25T16:04:00.002-07:002017-05-25T16:04:11.988-07:00On Aging.As I sit this evening listening to the cars drive past in the rain, I'm still wrestling with the conflict of emotions I've been confronted with today. My heart and my mind can't quite agree on what I should feel.<br />
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You see, this morning my baby sister texted me to let me know my father was in the hospital. Apparently he fell, backwards, down the stairs last night breaking his collarbone and a few ribs. My father and I haven't spoken in probably ten years. In fact, we've had a strained relationship since my parents divorced when I was 13.<br />
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I'm the oldest of three girls. I was a little rebellious as a young teen, married at 18, started a family at 20. For most of my life my father has chosen to NOT have a relationship with me. He holds grudges and is quick to place blame and hate. I turned 50 last year and if there's one thing I've learned in those 50 years it's that life is too damn short for all of that hate! I've lost classmates, friends, young nephews and nieces, my father-in-law, all of my grandparents, and friends of my children.<br />
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I don't consider him a bad person, he just has demons that I don't understand. In fact, he seemed to be a really good dad to my step sister and I think that's amazing!<br />
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But tonight I struggle with all of the feelings. I've been crying or close to tears most of the day. I also feel that loneliness of never really having a "dad". I want to reach out and let him know that I'm here if he needs anything but I'm frightened by the thought that he'll just reject me. It would be easier if I just didn't care at all...<br />
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But he's still my father. He's 73 and I don't even know how his health is other than the fact he has back problems. Nobody gets out of this life alive, right? Who chooses to isolate themselves from family at this stage of their life? Even at my age I'm frightened of the thought of being alone. Of fading from peoples' lives and memories. Of having nobody.<br />
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I try my damnedest to keep in touch with people. I reach out with a text or a message here and there. I like to think that it makes at least a little difference. I love you...all of you...the friends I see regularly...the ones I only know through social media...the few of you who have touched my heart so briefly and then gone on with life elsewhere. You know who you are.<br />
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And yes, I love my father. Speedy healing.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-34424493706834864642016-09-18T12:51:00.000-07:002016-09-18T12:51:02.342-07:00As summer comes to an end I'm reminded of what an amazing year of adventure and growth I've had.<br />
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I've learned a lot about myself...how to open my heart...that love is to be shared. My heart loves freely! I fall in love with people, places, things every day. I've learned that real love and happiness is about giving, not receiving. When you open your heart and give, all your love is reflected back to you.<br />
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I have a fantastic group of friends and i am humbled by their generosity.<br />
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At the end of May i flew out west for a holiday full of firsts. I flew alone. We spent 24 hours on the Colorado River, boating, hiking, camping, and soaking in the hot springs. NV->AZ->CA. We went off-roading in the desert. The vastness of beauty on this Earth repeatedly brings me to tears. A week in Burbank/LA followed. I Ubered alone, hiked Griffith Park alone from the old carousel all the way up to the Observatory! We drove up the Pacific Coast Highway and took sunset pictures on the beach. We drive past Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Mulholland Dr.<br />
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Now I know why people love California! I could've stayed so much longer. August 1 I drove to Detroit to visit this same friend (he was there for work). We spent an entire day kayaking, picnicing, enjoying nature in the midst of the city. We slept in a 5 start hotel! The next evening i met up with girlfriends and enjoyed Gwen Stefani live.<br />
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Generosity. Yep.<br />
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I want to go all the places and see all the beauty. </div>
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Be an example of what love really is.<br />
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Oh! I crocheted this amazing spare tire cover :)<br />
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As I type this blog entry, I'm getting ready for my very first trip over seas. Again, through the generosity of a close friend. In less than one week I'll be visiting Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.<br />
I'll be sure to take lots of pictures!<br />
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Be kind to each other. 💚<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-28930970243477993972016-08-25T11:51:00.000-07:002016-08-25T11:51:02.003-07:00Life is beautifulAugust 25, 2016<br />
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I'm gonna warn you now, lots of pictures!<br />
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This month has been full. I went to Detroit, spent a day kayaking with Jimmy. The hotel was way too fancy!<br />
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The following day i had friends join me forthe Gwen Stefani show. My seats were center stage, about 10 rows behind the pit.<br />
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Jimmy was in charge of the video for this tour, not the lighting.<br />
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This week I'm on vacation in Topsail Island, NC. It's a happy place for me. So peaceful and beautiful. </div>
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There's something about being outdoors, connecting with nature and it's simple beauty...<br />
It brings emotions to the surface unexpectedly for me. Really big highs and really big lows. I don't know if other people experience this.<br />
Regardless, it makes me happy to be alive and with friends and family.<br />
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Time to swim! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-4337602632514657762016-07-21T07:23:00.002-07:002016-07-21T07:23:26.837-07:00Summer time, and the living is easy Good afternoon friends!<br />
I think it's time to fill you in on what I've been up to this summer...but let me start with last winter.<br />
We didn't have a very long winter here in NE Ohio, but i spent it working at the local ski resort. In case you haven't actually met me, I'm really good at customer service. I met so many wonderful people! I can't wait to return this winter season.<br />
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Not having a permanent, full time job is challenging...bittersweet. I get to enjoy my family and friends all that i want. I have been doing some household jobs on the side. Lots of time to work on my crocheting! And I've done a little traveling. 😊<br />
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It's odd that i haven't done any canning this year. My pantry is still overflowing from last year.<br />
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In April i drove to Columbus for 2 days and was treated to see Bruce Springsteen on The River Tour!<br />
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What an amazing 3 hours 45 minute show!<br />
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I've seen some great shows this year. Pucifer, Silversun Pickups, the Thermals. Yesterday i attended Warped Tour. Next up is Gwen Stefani!<br />
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Music is life.<br />
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Ok. Time to get back to crocheting. I promise to update more often.<br />
I love all of you 💚Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-5807999630735734772016-06-25T07:39:00.001-07:002016-06-25T07:39:37.025-07:00Hello dear friends! Well, someone reminded me yesterday that it's been over a year since i updated my blog. I'm not going to apologize. It's been a crazy year! I've grown in ways i didn't know i could and life is beautiful ❤<br />
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I'll be back very soon with all kinds of updates...but for now I'm off to volunteer and pour beer for the great people of Akron.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-28533820330603906032015-06-01T06:28:00.001-07:002015-06-01T06:28:12.701-07:00Always an optimistGood early Monday morning friends!<br />
So let's talk a minute about life changes. Big ones. We've all been through them...marriage, kids, job loss, divorce, death. These changes are inevitable throughout the years and you either learn to deal with them or you crumble under the pressure. I'm a Libra. I weigh the good with the bad and try to see both sides of any situation. Honestly though, I almost always end up seeing the good/positive side of any situation.<br />
This year has brought some changes for me and I know more are soon to come. I started a stricter fitness routine and meal plan. I didn't see this as "I HAVE to exercise more and I CAN'T eat this anymore". I saw it as I can't wait to see how good I feel and look! I'm gonna be sooooo healthy! This weekend I was fired from my job of 5 years. I didn't cry. I actually laughed. It had become a toxic environment of late and although I'll miss my amazing co-workers/friends there (and the discount on getting my hair colored) I won't miss the petty immaturity of the management. New doors are already opening for me! And if I have to be unemployed, summer is definitely the right time for that! Another big change for me is a new granddaughter soon! I'm more excited than I should be. This is the beautiful granny square blanket I made for our new little Reagan Lynn.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Maggie has always loved the color purple. When she was a little girl we would drive past that purple house on Home Avenue in North Hill and she would tell us that was going to be her house some day. cant wait to welcome this new little one into our family. And now that I am temporarily unemployed, I will have plenty of time to help out.<br />
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I have finished a few crochet blankets already this year...and almost finished with this current one. Take a look!<br />
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This one was purchased by a co-worker at the salon. I have been cleaning my attic/sewing/craft room and reorganizing so that my daughter can put a bed up there and stop sleeping on my couch. The OCD took over and my yarn ended up organized by color...oops! So this blanket was born out of my leftover yarn stash. It was a fun one!<br />
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Hahaha! Crazy, I know.<br />
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This blanket in its beautiful dark green and white stripes was a gift for my gentleman friend. He is currently taking online classes with Ohio University. This is his Bobcat blanket. The top photo shows it before I bordered it.<br />
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The pattern was called Corner to Corner and it was a super quick one!<br />
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This is my current project. A beautiful pattern by Attic24 called Cozy Stripes. Once again I am using from my yarn stash. The colors have a real 1970s vibe. Someone has expressed interest in this one, but if that doesnt happen it will be for sale soon.<br />
I have also been baking up a storm!<br />
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Donuts for a co-workers birthday.<br />
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Egg rolls for Easter dinner.<br />
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Mini pumpkin breads for our Earth Month bake sale.<br />
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Coconut Bundt cake (vegan) for Mr. Zubs Deli.<br />
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Cookies for Zubs.<br />
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Mixed berry cobbler (gluten free) for a birthday.<br />
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This gorgeous Blueberry Muffin Bundt cake. (Can you tell that I love Bundt cakes?) This one was for my friend Katie and her bridal party to enjoy at the salon while getting their hair done for her wedding Saturday. I am making another one today...for myself and family to enjoy!<br />
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Canning season is just getting underway. I have picked a little bit of rhubarb so far. Strawberries will soon be ready, mulberries, raspberries, blueberries and cherries will follow. So excited! Gah!<br />
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Hope youve enjoyed this little update. I will apologize, right now, that my keyboard wont type an apostrophe today. Silly thing but the grammar Nazi in me is really showing.<br />
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Time for dishes, baking, chores and the gym. Thankful that I have all the time I need right now. Make it a fantastic Monday! Be creative. Be loving. Be strong. Be positive. <3<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-65326633319599799272015-03-11T06:13:00.000-07:002015-03-11T06:13:25.297-07:00It's Almost Pi Day!I really am a math geek deep down. And I'm not gonna apologize for it. This year March 14th is extra special as it's 3-14-15!!! Seriously pie though. I made this pie...<br />
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<a name='more'></a>German chocolate pecan pie. AND it's gluten free. AND no corn syrup. Whoop!<br />
I slightly modified a recipe from <a href="https://www.cookingforisaiah.com/gluten-free-dairy-free-german-chocolate-pecan-pie/" target="_blank">Cooking For Isaiah</a> by using Bob's Red Mill all purpose GF flour mix and I used butter instead of margarine or shortening. This was the easiest pie crust I've made in quite some time. All done in the food processor. I also skipped the refrigeration and rolling out step and just immediately pressed the dough into the pie pan. I'm a rebel that way. Then I followed the chilling and baking directions from there. I did notice that my pie took about 8 minutes longer to become fully baked and set in the center so watch your bake time.<br />
Honestly though. Chocolate, pecans, coconut...heaven. This pie will be portioned up today. Some goes to a couple celiac friends and the rest into my freezer so I don't devour the entire thing.<br />
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Another little kitchen project was to create instant oatmeal packets. In my previous post I talked about making overnight oats which has changed my life! These have become a staple in my weekly meal prep now. Seriously...life changing! But some folks prefer to just add hot water and that means instant oatmeal packets. One of those people is a friend of mine from work. She has some really cute chickens and brings me their adorable blue eggs...<br />
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I love a good barter! So I've made her some instant oatmeal packets!<br />
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Pinterest to the rescue! I read a bunch of recipes and then created my own. Because, you know, that's how I roll! Here goes nothing. Feel free to create your own flavors.<br />
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<b>Homemade Instant Oatmeal Packets</b><br />
<br />I did these as a kind of assembly line process so here's what goes into each bag:<br />
1/2C instant oats<br />
1T ground flax seed (or chia seeds or hemp seeds)<br />
1tsp coconut sugar (you can use brown sugar or maple sugar or even stevia)<br />
1/2 scoop vanilla flavored whey protein powder<br />
2T powdered milk<br />
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Now from this point you can modify them for whatever flavor you like.<br />
-powdered peanut butter<br />
-cocoa powder<br />
-cinnamon and raisins<br />
-chopped nuts<br />
-dried fruits<br />
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And, of course, once the hot water is added you can always add fresh fruit!<br />
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So that's it. Pretty simple, cost effective, and no weird ingredients or preservatives. Let me know what you come up with and how you like them!<br />
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That's it for today. Another 40+ degree day expected here in NE Ohio. I hate to look outside this time of year because everything is dirty and sloppy. Also, I've developed a cold in my eye...haven't had one of those since I was a kid. It looks super gross just FYI, so if you see me try not to stare!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-60253561892708950222015-02-17T06:56:00.000-08:002015-02-17T06:56:40.697-08:00Thinking Spring?<div style="text-align: center;">
Another night of subzero temperatures and a day in single digits....brrrrrr. Kinda makes everyone a little bit on edge. I generally like winter in Ohio. I like the snow...playing in it and even shoveling it. I'm not afraid to drive in snow. In fact, I find it weirdly peaceful at times. And admit it, snow is beautiful! It feels like we've had a nice amount of sunny days mixed in. But this cold! Nope, that's where I draw the line. I'm supposed to have snowboarding lessons tonight. I'll freeze solid in 20 minutes. Can I get some 25 degree weather up in here?</div>
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So I started my morning with some delicious overnight oats. Have you jumped on this bandwagon yet? I love hot oatmeal. This whole "no cooking" thing made me a little wary. I wouldn't say that I'm hooked...but this recipe was a winner.</div>
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I've always loved peanut butter and banana together. Here's the recipe, I hope you give it a try.<br />
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First you'll need some containers with tight fitting lids that hold at least a cup and a half. If you know anything at all about me, you know I have jars upon jars. I chose some wide mouth salsa jars that I saved instead of using canning jars. They were perfect.<br />
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Now, there are many ways to modify this recipe to suit your own tastes. You can make it vegan or use regular oatmeal instead of gluten free. Do what you like!<br />
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Also...you can make just one jar or set up a little assembly line and make a week's worth!<br />
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In your container add:<br />
1/2 C milk - I used almond/coconut blend<br />
1/2 C old fashioned oatmeal - I used gluten free<br />
1Tbl honey or maple syrup<br />
Put on your lid, give it a good shake, refrigerate overnight.<br />
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In the morning add:<br />
1 sliced banana<br />
2Tbl peanut butter - I use organic, unsweetened<br />
2Tbl chopped pecans<br />
1Tbl chocolate chips<br />
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Overnight oats can be eaten hot or cold. I prefer to heat mine up first and then add the goodies. I also find that I need just a little more milk in the pan while heating.<br />
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That's it! Easy peasy! And less work that cooking in the morning (even with heating them up on the stove). And they were delicious and filling!<br />
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Another recipe I made for the first time this weekend was guacamole deviled eggs. I have NEVER been a fan of deviled eggs. As a child I remember learning how to make them with my mom but I've always had an aversion to mustard and mayo mixed together. It reminds me of my distaste for potato salad...a childhood trauma...a story for another time! But I really love guacamole...and I like hardboiled eggs in recipes or on my salad...so TRY NEW THINGS MONICA!!<br />
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Yep. Don't be afraid. Just try.<br />
Anyway, look how fantastic these are!<br />
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First start with hardboiled eggs. That's a loaded statement isn't it?! Ha! There are a few tips I can give for making it a little bit easier. If your eggs are older, they'll peel better. And add about 1/4C of baking soda to your pan of cold water before you add your eggs...also helps with the peeling.<br />
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So I boiled 8 eggs. Peeled them. Sliced them in half and separated the yolks into a medium bowl. Using a fork break up the yolks until crumbly.<br />
To this add:<br />
1 mashed, ripe avocado<br />
juice of half a lime<br />
2 strips of bacon, fried crisp and crumbled<br />
2 Tbl finely minced red onion<br />
pinch of salt<br />
1/4 tsp garlic powder<br />
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Mix well and spoon back into your egg white halves. I portioned these into small containers for snacking this week along with my food prep meals and fruit.<br />
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Friends at work always comment on what I bring to eat and how it looks so delicious...but I still see them ordering out every day. First of all, that is WAY out of my budget. I have a part time job and sell bakery and needlecrafts on the side to make ends meet. Secondly, I like to know what I'm eating! For a couple hours each week I plan, shop, cook and prepare. The finished product is healthy, filling breakfasts, fresh fruit every day, nutrient filled/lower calorie lunches and delicious snacks that aren't sugary and processed!<br />
If any of you have questions about my cooking or meal prep, ASK! I'm happy to share any helpful tips or recipes. I use pint canning jars for cut fruit, berries, grapes, apples. Grab it and go = 16oz of fruit.<br />
This week's lunches were baked chicken and salmon, sweet potatoes, frozen California blend veggies and quinoa. I have the deviled eggs for snacks. I also always have plain organic yogurt and homemade granola.<br />
Healthy starts with your attitude. Small changes. Inside and out.<br />
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I love you guys for reading! Thanks <3<br />
Make it a great week!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-81993322604434637062015-02-14T17:52:00.000-08:002015-02-14T17:52:19.366-08:00Happy Valentine's Day 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8CU8TwMOpLjQOSiS142KQB8525SS8a5N3QmbDcCBOYjVMLRRMqp3Abn7KhYRgEJcYo0qgiDiYtRoeukLVR5hXXemxIbMQOg_XuCU9aXHags8P7ac1G6Ptlz9UxTM0gXWmgh1wMfxrgU/s1600/FB_IMG_1423949424579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8CU8TwMOpLjQOSiS142KQB8525SS8a5N3QmbDcCBOYjVMLRRMqp3Abn7KhYRgEJcYo0qgiDiYtRoeukLVR5hXXemxIbMQOg_XuCU9aXHags8P7ac1G6Ptlz9UxTM0gXWmgh1wMfxrgU/s1600/FB_IMG_1423949424579.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy Valentine's Day to all of you dear readers <3<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Here, in Northeast Ohio, we're in the middle of a winter storm. Its snowing and drifting, the temperatures are falling and windchills are expected to be dangerously below zero overnight. I love winter and the snow. I know, I know I'm in the minority around here. I am not quite as fond of the uber cold temperatures. Ask anyone, I'm a freeze baby.<br />
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I did manage to spend about 35 minutes shoveling my driveway without freezing solid. Thank God (and Jaki B) for my Burton snowboarding jacket that keeps me toasty!<br />
Did some shopping, ran my kid around a little and then came home to hunker down.<br />
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I had an Instagram follower ask about a recipe and realized that I haven't posted a recipe in quite a long time! Ooops :(<br />
Most of you know that I sell my vegan bakery at a local sandwich shop, <a href="http://www.mrzubs.com/" target="_blank">Mr. Zubs Deli</a>, which now has two locations. This week I made a big batch of cookies from a new recipe.<br />
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Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies<br />
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Because Zubs only needs vegan bakery from me I modified a recipe I found from <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/peanut-butter-banana-and-honey-cookies/" target="_blank">Two Peas and Their Pod</a>. I took out the animal products and omitted the frosting. I thought they were sweet enough with out frosting...almost healthy tasting! Almost.<br />
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This recipe makes about 2 dozen good sized cookies. Preheat oven to 350F<br />
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In small bowl mix together 1Tbl ground flax seed meal and 3Tbl warm water. Set aside. </div>
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In medium bowl whisk together 1 1/4C flour, 1tsp baking soda, 1/2tsp salt and 1/4tsp cinnamon</div>
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In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend together 4T softened Earth Balance margarine, 1/2C brown sugar, 1/4C white sugar, 1/3C peanut butter, 1Tbl agave, 1tsp vanilla, and flax mixture. Blend until smooth. Add 2 VERY ripe bananas and mix until thoroughly combined.</div>
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Slowly add in flour mixture until combined. Stir in 2C old fashioned oats by hand.</div>
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I use my handy dandy cookie scoop to make cookies uniform size. Place dough 2 inches apart on baking sheet with silicone baking mat and bake in oven for approximately 12-15 minutes. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes and remove to cooling rack.</div>
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<br />Enjoy and try not to eat them all in one sitting! And of course you're free to use the original recipe or make any modifications between the two. I might try a gluten free version next time.</div>
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Well, I'm going to get back to my crocheting. I'm almost finished with another gorgeous fox scarf. I have a couple baby blankets to get to work on next.</div>
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I hope you had a fantastic Valentine's Day wherever you are! Single or not, make sure those you love know that you love them.</div>
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Stay warm and safe! And if your Cuyahoga Falls local, join me for yoga at the new LA Fitness Sunday morning at 11am!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-52550618678861259742015-02-10T20:01:00.001-08:002015-02-10T20:01:43.034-08:00Personal GoalsAs many of you might remember, my 2014 goal was to not buy any pre packaged or processed foods from the grocery. I've done pretty well with that but I'm far from perfect. Normal trips to the grocery consist of shopping the produce and dairy aisles with a quick trip down the baking aisle. I buy most of my eggs and any meat that I'm going to eat from local farms who pasture raise and don't use antibiotics.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>This year's goal is more fitness related...and I'm checking things off of my bucket list along the way! I've joined a gym.<br />
That, right there, was a very scary thing for me. I have no idea how to use gym equipment at all. I'd never been on a treadmill. Ever. In my life. Also, I'm a middle aged, tattooed single woman. So I've started with yoga classes and a little cardio. But I've signed up on BodySpace and this week I need to take my starting measurements.<br />
One week from tonight I take my first snowboarding lesson!<br />
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Here's my first night breaking in my boots...wearing them about an hour each day to pack them out...my toes are almost asleep again lol. I guess you're never too old, right?<br />
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This April I'm taking a girl's trip to Ashville, NC and while there we will zip line! I'm so excited.<br />
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I've finished a few projects and started a few more.<br />
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This cute grey fox is going to his new home tomorrow morning.<br />
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This crocheted grannysquare baby blanket was given to my friend, Erin. She's having a baby boy in two months!<br />
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More burp cloths were made. And sold. And more are in the process.<br />
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This weekend I went with to support my gentleman friend during this. He was a trooper, as this was a big step up from his first tattoo. The next morning he said, "It's really sore. My first tattoo was a lie, all quick and easy. This one is like, 'Fuck you! I'm a real tattoo!' "<br />
<br />It made me really happy. This was his first one...<br />
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It was my Christmas gift to him.<br />
And here's my newest ink...<br />
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I'm ready for another already too. My tax return should be here this week! Ha ha ha<br />
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I have some baking to do this weekend...red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing...and dirt cake. It's been a chocolate filled month of February. Luckily the act of baking the desserts is usually enough that I don't have to eat any! I'm twisted. Really.<br />
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Time for bed. Sweet dreams. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-57049453917264906012015-02-04T19:46:00.000-08:002015-02-04T19:46:34.429-08:00Life Gets Away...Seriously guys. Life just gets so busy sometimes that I blink and its already February!<br />
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It's been crazy snowy lately and I have to admit that I love it! I shoveled the driveway Sunday in lieu of the gym (since I couldn't get out of my street). It took me 45 minutes or so and then we built a snowman! This was before he got eyes but the kids were so excited they kept shaking his twig arms and saying "Nice to meet you". It was flipping adorable.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I've been baking up a storm. You crazy Highland Square vegans sure do like desserts!<br />
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Instagram has been really interesting for me this winter. I have almost a thousand followers, many from other states and even other countries. I've sent handmade items all over the US this winter and that's kinda exciting :)<br />
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This beautiful box of citrus arrived from an IG follower in California....<br />
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Then this happened...<br />
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And eventually this! Delicious recipe from <a href="http://foodinjars.com/" target="_blank">Marissa</a>.<br />
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Meyer lemon marmalade with honey and vanilla. Yep. Canning season can't get here son enough for me! Actually, I might have to cook up a batch of mixed berry jam from the little leftovers in my freezer.<br />
Experiments in gluten free baking...<br />
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Mostly successful and my celiac gentleman friend has a happy belly.<br />
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Saving the best for last...My baby is having a baby! Little girl is due June 28. <3 <3<br />
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I'm gonna try harder to update more regularly. We have lots of catching up to do anyway!<br />
Tell your important people that you love them. I'll be back soon.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-10682027048872969832014-09-01T18:03:00.001-07:002014-09-01T18:03:51.103-07:00The end of summer...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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...which means canning is in full force! I made this fantastic peach jalapeno jam. Sweet and heat. Great on a block of cream cheese to eat with crackers, great on a biscuit with dinner, great as a glaze on pork!<br />
Ready to make your own?<br />
I may have mentioned that I like to halve and pit my peaches before blanching...so much easier. So here goes...<br />
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8C peeled diced peaches<br />
4 minced jalapenos, seeds removed<br />
1 1/2C honey<br />
juice of 3 limes<br />
powdered pectin of your choice (I use Ball for lower sugar recipes)<br />
If you've made any jam before then you know the drill, bring first 4 ingredients to a boil in a wide, heavy bottomed pot. Reduce to a low boil and cook, stirring often, until thick and sticky (220F on candy thermometer). Stir in one packet pectin, return to boil and then fill your prepared jars and process 10 minutes in a water bath canner.<br />
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Easy peasy! <br />
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Banana pepper rings were a new item to can this year. Lots of recipes out there. I chose a cold pack method and a brine that contained turmeric for that classic yellow color. A second batch of these will be happening this week.<br />
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A good friend of mine texted me a photo a few weeks back. It was a canning jar, empty of it's pickles, containing only the leftover brine. I could see it had mustard seed but it also contained a cinnamon stick! It was someone's grandma's secret recipe and she wondered if I'd ever heard of such a thing. Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pickles. I searched the interwebs for such a thing...found an old recipe from the early 1900s and tried it out. I'll let you know what the verdict is when these are tasted! <br />
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And Bread and Butter pickles are a family tradition. It's the first thing I remember canning with my mom.<br />
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1 peck med cucumbers sliced<br />
3 chopped white onions<br />
3 chopped green bell peppers<br />
sprinkle with 1/2C pickling salt, mix well and let rest for 4 hours<br />
In large pan on stove combine following brine ingredients:<br />
3C white vinegar and 3C cider vinegar<br />
3C sugar<br />
2T mustard seed<br />
2tsp turmeric<br />
1T whole cloves<br />
Bring to a boil making sure sugar is dissolved. Squeeze liquid from vegetables and add to brine pot. Once all cukes are in brine give a good stir to heat through and pack into prepared pint jars.This recipe makes a bout 12-14 pints. Process for 15 minutes in a water bath canner. Try to wait about a month before eating <br />
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these! Patience, Grasshopper!<br />
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And, of course, I have to show off my new tattoo. Last Wednesday I got this great traditional dagger through an anatomical heart. It's hard to get a good picture of this as it's on my inner thigh. I'm working on covering my legs. this is on my left leg. My tattoo artist said 'You have a lot of shitty spots left on this leg'...meaning my knee cap, ankle, knee ditch, etc. Oh well.<br />
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Hope you enjoyed this quick update. Time passes so quickly between posts, I'm so sorry!<br />
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Happy canning! I <3 you all.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-18393348304762966152014-07-29T18:12:00.002-07:002014-07-29T18:12:18.121-07:00I've been a canning machine!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This year I've decided to try some new recipes along with the 'old standbys'. 0ne of the new recipes I canned today is corncob jelly. It's a beautiful pale yellow with a taste resembling honey. This recipe made much more than I expected so I will definitely have it for sale at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Akron-Farm-and-Flea-Market/1426338510985099" target="_blank">Akron Farm & Flea</a>.<br />
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I made a scrumptious batch of vanilla-peach-bourban jam! Just look at that amazing color! The bourbon doesn't make it taste boozy, it just helps enhance the flavor of the vanilla. Yummy! <br />
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<a name='more'></a>I made a second batch of honey candied jalapenos. These are also called Cowboy Candy. once you try them you'll consume them like crack. No joke.<br /><br />
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Then I started on the tomatoes. I bought a peck basket of Roma tomatoes at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/haymaker.farmers.market" target="_blank">Haymakers Farmers Market in Kent</a>. Two batches of Amy's tomato jam finished. It's one of my favorite recipes from Marissa's book Food in Jars.</div>
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Tomorrow I will share my recipe for Peach Jalapeno Jam. It's worth waiting for, I promise!<br />
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Time for bed. Sweet dreams!<br />
MonicaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-81921637910387617142014-07-24T18:15:00.001-07:002014-07-24T18:15:46.204-07:00Did you miss me much?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm back!<br />
Thanks to a new (used) Macbook Pro that I picked up this evening, I can finally get back to you gracious readers! I think it's been 3 months since I've updated. It feels like I'm meeting you all over again so.....Nice to meet you! Welcome to my blog about all the things that keep me busy during my days.<br />
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I've been a busy bee and I'm deep into the 2014 canning season. This most recent batch was blueberry butter cooked down in my crock pot. The recipe made six half pint jars and as soon as I posted the picture I had three of them sold!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yUVjmq7VW-I/U9GpUP-uOyI/AAAAAAAAEyI/JLPTq9x70c0/s1600/IMG_20140722_195505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yUVjmq7VW-I/U9GpUP-uOyI/AAAAAAAAEyI/JLPTq9x70c0/s1600/IMG_20140722_195505.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a>I picked blueberries twice this summer. Twelve pounds both times. That's a lot of blueberries! I made blueberry jam, one batch with sugar and one batch with honey. I made blueberry pie filling too!<br />
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As you can see in the picture, I also picked raspberries (that box has 3 1/2 pounds worth inside). I picked strawberries this spring, black raspberries and green beans too, along with daily pickings from m mulberry tree late spring.<br />
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I've made lemon curd, candied jalapenos, jams, mulberry BBQ sauce, pie fillings, honey spreads! So much deliciousness! The picture above right shows my table set up at the Akron Farm and Flea Market. It's a brand new market right in downtown Akron where you can find anything from produce, home canned goods, quality handmade crafts and even yard sale items! It's been quite a learning adventure for us all but in the most fun way.<br />
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I'm so excited to be back that I just could continue this post all night...but I won't. I'll save for another time. Besides, it's almost my bedtime. Thanks for your time Dear Readers. I will include some links and recipes in my next posts as soon as I figure out how to use this Apple device a little better.<br />
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Be kind to each other! I'll be back soon :)
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<p dir="ltr">I believe it's finally spring here in Ohio. It's a holiday weekend and I have 4 days of work... like a mini vacation with no plans. Temperatures in the 70s and no rain - I'll take it! </p>
<p dir="ltr">I've done some baking this week. Gluten free vegan chocolate chip cookie bars and vegan rhubarb applesauce bread. I'll share these recipes soon! </p>
<p dir="ltr">I've also been power walking again. I have a neighborhood route that's about 4 miles. My goal is to walk 5 days a week or more, so far I've only managed 2. 😕 But I have gotten my time down to 14:35 per minute!</p>
<p dir="ltr">Time for laundry and dishes. More soon! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s3xxWFOe_Jk/U36fHcDgFUI/AAAAAAAADtY/gorj1PYFkH8/s1600/IMG_20140522_202515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s3xxWFOe_Jk/U36fHcDgFUI/AAAAAAAADtY/gorj1PYFkH8/s640/IMG_20140522_202515.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qDA1kYJaX9I/U36fJnjbvEI/AAAAAAAADtg/adpo7tkchAs/s1600/IMG_20140522_200411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qDA1kYJaX9I/U36fJnjbvEI/AAAAAAAADtg/adpo7tkchAs/s640/IMG_20140522_200411.jpg"> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-22806686211609483482014-04-15T17:33:00.001-07:002014-04-15T17:33:52.070-07:00Snow on tax dayI'm not sure which is worse!<br />
But cold weather means soup for me. So tonight's dinner was 'Clean out the Fridge' Ramen soup!<br />
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Earlier this month I scored a flat of delicious shiitake mushrooms. After working my way through about half of them, the remaining mushrooms ended up as mushroom stock in the freezer.<br />
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I sautéed up some onion, carrots and celery as I brought the stock to a boil. Then added the noodles, some frozen spinach, some fried tempeh and an egg (along with some soy sauce, ginger and sesame seeds). So delicious!<br />
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I hope you're all as lucky as I am to have fresh, organic eggs in your refrigerator! I get mine from my friend Liz at <a href="http://bartonfarmsandgardens.wordpress.com/">Barton Farms and Gardens</a> or Ami at <a href="https://www.localfoodmarketplace.com/breakneck/index.html">Breakneck Acres</a>.<br />
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I also did some baking this weekend. Vegan Banana Bread and Vegan Carrot Oat Breakfast Cookies for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MrZubsDeli?ref=br_tf">Mr. Zub's Deli.</a> If you are in the West Akron/Highland Square area and have a taste for delicious sandwiches and home baked desserts make this a stop!<br />
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I may have mentioned that last January my grandparents both passed away. Slowly but surely my mother and uncles are working their way through my grandparents' belongings. My birthstone is opal and I have inherited my grandmother's opal jewelry.<br />
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So beautiful. I'll always have her with me.<br />
It's a busy week here again. Extra hours at the salon, preparing for Crafty Mart, potting up the vegetables for this summer's garden. I'll have another update soon!<br />
Take care of yourself and hug the ones you love.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-5106406674711571562014-03-09T17:38:00.000-07:002014-03-09T17:38:52.567-07:00Is it spring yet?I can't believe how quickly 2014 is passing by! And it's still so cold and wintery feeling :( Boo!<br />
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Even my Christmas cactus is confused! It bloomed again in February.<br />
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I've been to a couple shows this month. Went to <a href="http://www.thekentstage.com/">The Kent Stage</a> to see some friends play. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/White-Pines/133908144665">The White Pines</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ShiveringTimbersMusic?ref=br_tf">Shivering Timbers</a>. Fun times!</div>
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I made this gorgeous loaf of whole wheat molasses bread... baked in my dutch oven! Have you seen <a href="http://www.frugallivingnw.com/frugal-homemaking/amazing-no-knead-bread-step-by-step-recipe/">this recipe on Pinterest</a> ? It's great and super easy.</div>
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I bought a new shelving unit and set up to start my vegetable seeds for this year's garden. Finally got the motivation and planted this afternoon. Tomatoes, peppers, basil, beans, spinach, cucumbers and sugar pumpkins.</div>
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Last weekend I made homemade broccoli cheese soup and then some <a href="http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/2006/09/chocolate-chip-cookie-squares.html?m=1">Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookie squares</a> ...partially for a co-workers birthday treat and partially to share with my friend J who got me this sweet hook-up...<br />
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Front row seats for day drinking and Chelsea Handler book signing...yes please and thank you!<br />
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My friend, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rachelrobertsmusic?fref=ts">Rachel Roberts,</a> started the afternoon with some entertaining music. She also is starring in a small <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NoneTooFragile">theater</a> production this month. She's a busy lady!<br />
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Last, but definitely not least, I finally got motivated enough to finish a sewing project that I started a month ago! Some brightly colored bumper pads for the ends of Little Evelyn's changing table. She likes to kick!<br />
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Working two jobs is really kicking my butt...please forgive my lack of posts lately. As things get more routine and the weather warms I'm hoping to be able to keep up more regularly. It'll be canning season before we know it! This spring and summer I'm excited to be able to teach some friends the basics of canning. Yay!!<br />
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Make it a great week. Tell someone you love them - they need to hear it! XOXO</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-2292524163417057002014-02-16T11:16:00.000-08:002014-02-16T11:16:21.554-08:00Sunday Fun Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Aren't you just craving spring? I know I am. It's been a long, very cold, very snowy winter here in Northeastern Ohio. Spring thaw will be welcomed. So to curb that itch I rooted a couple houseplant cuttings. I really do love houseplants! These will be off to a friend who has smokers in his apartment building. Anything to help purify the air.<br />
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What girl doesn't love shoes?! This week I became the proud inheritor (is that a real word) of multiple pair of designer vintage shoes and boots. It was like Christmas all over again! <a name='more'></a><br />
I'll post more pictures later but aren't these fantastic? The heels are crushed velvet. The giraffe print are Italian leather with a low heel. Eeep!<br />
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Look at these great vintage finds from my thrifting adventures this week. The picture on the right shows my old food mill compared to this giant one I scored for $5! I use my food mill for applesauce, tomato sauce, and to process my pumpkins. Maybe I can find some additional uses for this big one. I also scored some vintage Corelle pieces. The Crazy Daisy pattern is my absolute favorite. It's what I ate off of growing up. And I'm a sucker for drinking glasses from the 1970s. I just can't help myself!<br />
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This morning I woke to find it snowing. Again. If I don't have to leave the house on a snowy Sunday, I won't. I started a pot of veggie stock on the back burner. It'll cook low and slow today and I'll can it up in the pressure canner. It's still soup weather! I also decided to make a batch of chewy peanut butter granola bars. I saw a recipe on Pinterest and it sounded simple and (fairly) healthy. Check it out!<br />
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Chewy Peanut Butter Granola Bars (adapted from <a href="http://www.savingwithshellie.com/bake-peanut-butter-granola-bars/">Saving with Shellie)</a><br />
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In a large bowl combine:<br />
2C quick oats<br />
1C crisp rice cereal ( I used an organic, non GMO brown rice cereal)<br />
1/2C golden flax seed (I used Bob's Red Mill)<br />
1/2C sunflower seeds (because I wanted them a little heartier)<br />
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In a small pan over low heat mix together:<br />
3/4C peanut butter (I used natural)<br />
3/4C combined sweeteners (I used 1/4C each of honey, brown sugar and agave)<br />
1tsp vanilla extract<br />
<br />
Line an 8x8 baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.<br />
Once the peanut butter mixture is warm and melty and completely combined add it to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Make sure there are no dry pockets in your bowl. Turn mixture into baking pan and press firmly. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Remove from pan using foil or parchment and cut into bar shapes. Makes about 10-12 depending upon size. These will keep at room temperature for about a week in an airtight container. <br />
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Be honest, they probably won't last more than a day. This is one reason I hate living alone...I WILL eat all of these.<br />
Finished another granny square for the baby blanket I'm working on.<br />
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Turned in my application for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/606346556108265/">Spring Crafty Mart</a> and now I need to get back into creative mode! No extra time to sit idly. Time is money!<br />
What do you think of this embroidery? I don't have the original artist to credit because someone sent it to my phone via text. I think I'm gonna make a couple.<br />
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Oh beards!<br />
2014 is turning out quite nicely so far. I hope it is for you as well! Fill your time with the people and things that you love. Make every minute count. Hug people! You never know how your little gestures can really touch people.<br />
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XOXOAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-52073702448744856822014-02-10T09:07:00.000-08:002014-02-10T09:07:11.326-08:00Disappearing Act!I'm sorry for my absence! It's February already and I don't really know where the time has gone. It's been a cold and snowy winter in Ohio and I feel like a bear. I just want to hibernate. So let's see what I've been up to, shall we?<br />
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I'm obsessed with this new CND shellac/Vinylux color! Mint Convertible. I could wear it every day! I also finished up this little crocheted Amigurumi unicorn for a special order. Cutie pie.<br />
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I made a few newborn baby hats, and have been working through some granny squares with leftover yarns. Pink, yellow and gray. It'll be a baby blanket when I finish. No craft shows anytime soon but I have the spring Crafty Mart in May.<br />
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Bought a couple more cookbooks to feed my addiction but I sold another Ohio string art plaque to a returning customer (Thanks Vivien!).<br />
I've still been cooking a bunch too. And sharing with anyone who wants to eat with me!<br />
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<a href="http://livlifetoo.yummly.com/2012/01/orange-almond-granola.html">Orange-almond-cranberry granola</a> was a big hit! This recipe is simple and not very sweet, great for snacking!<br />
This weekend I made my first vegan meatloaf. It is lentil and tomato paste based and this recipe is a winner in my book. The color and texture are so good that even my meat eating friend had seconds!<br />
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Vegan Lentil Meatloaf (adapted from <a href="http://www.lemonandlace.com/2011/07/vegetarian-meatloaf.html">Lemon and Lace)</a><br />
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1medium onion, diced<br />
4 cloves of garlic, minced<br />
2T olive oil<br />
1C lentils<br />
2-3C water<br />
Heat olive oil in frying pan and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and lentils and sauté for about 5 minutes. Add 2C water, bring to a low boil, cover loosely with lid, lower heat to a high simmer. Cook lentils, adding water if necessary, until tender (about 20-30 minutes). Drain any excess water.<br />
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In your food processor mix your cooked lentil mixture with<br />
1C oats (quick or old fashioned)<br />
4oz tomato paste<br />
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In a small bowl mix <br />
4tsp flax seed meal<br />
2T water<br />
1tsp garlic powder<br />
1tsp oregano<br />
1T brown sugar<br />
1T barbeque sauce<br />
1tsp salt<br />
freshly ground pepper to taste<br />
Then add this binding mixture to your food processor and pulse until completely mixed.<br />
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Spread mixture into a loaf pan. My stoneware loaf pan is my favorite for meatloaf because it makes it crisp around the edges! Bake at 350F for 40-50 minutes and then turn out onto your serving plate.<br />
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Isn't it gorgeous?! I served this with my homemade ketchup, some oven baked potato wedges and a vegetable. Friends that couldn't make it over asked for leftovers! I'm going to use this as filling for stuffed peppers and just add a little rice into the mixture. Can't wait :)<br />
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If you're vegetarian but not vegan you can go ahead and use an egg instead of the flax seed and water mixture.<br />
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I spent a leisurely Sunday thrift shopping and watching the Walking Dead marathon with a friend. Today will be spent catching up on chores and doing a bit of sewing. Oh! And I planted up some starts from a couple houseplants to share. I need to get some more pots. I'm itching for spring, aren't you? It'll be seed starting time soon. I've been gathering supplies because my daughter and I intend to turn our partly sunny front yard into a raised bed vegetable garden this year.<br />
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Time for lunch now. Here's to a smooth start of another wonderful week! The days are getting a little longer and we're a little closer to spring. I hope it's a great one for you too <3Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-30622291859520310422014-01-09T19:47:00.001-08:002014-01-09T19:47:44.502-08:00January BluesOne year ago today I lost my grandmother. She was 95 1/2 years old.<br />
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The day before, I lost a great talented, creative friend. He was 33.<br />
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Nine days later, I lost my grandfather. He was 97.<br />
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It was a difficult beginning to a difficult year. I lost 5 loved ones in 2013, including my 26 year old niece and the 26 year old son of an old friend.<br />
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Todays January blues are so much different than last year. It's blue sky and sunshine! I have a brighter outlook, a new job, great new friends and a new blog to share with all of you.<br />
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Watched Jurassic Park the other day. Love this movie! My favorite line is when Samuel L Jackson flips the electrical breaker back on and says "Hold on to your butts!"</div>
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I made a double batch of <a href="http://hooksandjams.blogspot.com/2013/11/busy-busy-busy.html#more">black bean and corn quinoa veggie burgers</a> today. Shared a couple with my daughter, ate one for dinner and froze the rest. Click the link if you haven't been reading my blog long enough to remember this recipe. They're so good. No lie.</div>
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Then it was time to relax and warm up. It's still relatively cold in Akron, OH. The temperature has been rising all day and is finally up to 28F tonight. Hot cider with some Fireball Whiskey hits the spot!</div>
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Finally I started thinking about breakfast. Do you think about your next meal when you've barely finished your last meal? Yep. That's me. I noticed earlier that I have some Greek yogurt still hanging out in the fridge so I though "why not make some granola to mix with that?" Sure! Why not?</div>
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Peanut butter granola. So simple. So good. Nutty but lightly sweet.</div>
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4T natural peanut butter</div>
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4T agave syrup</div>
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2t cinnamon</div>
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1t vanilla extract</div>
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Melt together over low temperature until combined.</div>
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In a large bowl stir together</div>
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2C oats</div>
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1/2C coconut</div>
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1/2C peanuts</div>
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Pour peanut butter mixture over oat mixture and stir until combined. I ended up having to use my hands, much like mixing a meatloaf.</div>
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Spread this mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone liner. Bake in a preheated 325F oven for approximately 30 minutes. Stirring every ten minutes. You'll know it's finished when it's a toasty golden brown color. I wish you could smell my kitchen right now!</div>
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Let this granola cool completely. It will harden as it cools. Store it in a canister or canning jar. It won't last long!</div>
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Share your time with the one's you love! See you again soon :)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-73277506276320849652014-01-06T17:15:00.000-08:002014-01-06T17:15:24.040-08:00Deep FreezeThe Midwest is under a blanket of frigid air right now. As I write this post the real temperature is -7F and the windchill is -38F! Schools are closed. Even some businesses are closed. My boss texted me this afternoon and said to stay home tomorrow. Snow days as an adult ROCK! <br />
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A friend posted this on her Facebook today. I was 11 years old when this blizzard hit. We don't get snows like that anymore!<br />
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I've been busy, as usual, lately. The holidays are over and I finally un-decked the house today. It's always kinda sad putting away all the cute Christmas decorations but it's nice to have the house clean and uncluttered again. Now I have this empty corner until I find someone to help me move the TV back over.<br />
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Feeling quite accomplished (and having no desire to open the door to leave) I decided it was a chili and cornbread night. Have I mentioned how satisfying it is to whip up dinner with ingredients that I canned myself? Because it really is!<br />
And I've been meaning to try this vegan cornbread recipe I found so tonight was the night.<br />
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I cooked the cornbread in the oven in my cast iron skillet. Beautifully crispy and brown around the edges. A perfect pairing with chili full of beans, lentils and veggies. And yes, that is peanut butter on top! Don't hate. I've always loved peanut butter with the spiciness of chili. I've been doing it that way since I was a kid.<br />
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Vegan Cornbread (adapted from <a href="http://www.picklesnhoney.com/2011/10/05/simple-vegan-cornbread/">Pickles & Honey)</a><br />
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Preheat oven to 425F<br />
Grease an 8x8 inch pan (or 8 inch round)<br />
In a small bowl combine 2T ground flax and 6T water to create 2 flax 'eggs'<br />
In a large bowl combine 1C whole wheat flour, 1C finely ground cornmeal, 1T baking powder and 1tsp salt.<br />
Add the flax 'eggs', 1/4C agave syrup ( maple syrup, honey or any combination can be used) and 1C almond milk.<br />
Once combined add 1/4C melted coconut oil and keep stirring till combined.<br />
Transfer to your prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes.<br />
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Now I know you want to cut right in and eat this while it's piping hot from the oven but DON'T! Just wait about 8-10 minutes and I promise it'll come out of the pan easier and it will stay in one piece instead of crumbling. I learned the hard way.<br />
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I also made a batch of chai flavored steel cut oatmeal this week. Wintertime calls for stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. It may not look like much but it sure tasted delicious!<br />
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I used Tazo chai tea and almond milk to cook the steel cut oats on the stove along with a stick of cinnamon and a vanilla bean. Once it was cooked and thick I removed the cinnamon and vanilla bean and added golden raisins, chopped pecans and a little bit of brown sugar. I can't wait to make this in other flavors! Anytime you wanna come over for breakfast just ask!<br />
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I've made a couple hats for special orders. Thanks to my favorite panda/esthetician for modeling them!<br />
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I also had a request for an little crocheted amigurumi unicorn so I've almost finished this guy!</div>
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Just a few more curls for his tail and mane and some buttons for eyes. Kinda fun :)</div>
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Well, that's about it for now. I'm staying under this blanket and not leaving the house tomorrow either! Hope you're all safe and warm as well. </div>
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I have a special request for you, dear readers. I very close friend of mine has been in a tough battle with cancer for over two years now. He's just been given 6 months to live and the doctors are trying to prolong that with chemo starting this week. If you have any extra positive energy to send his way to help him with the pain during this last chapter I know he will be grateful. Hug your loved ones extra tight today and be thankful for your health.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-25563247406628870082013-12-24T14:47:00.000-08:002013-12-24T14:47:33.132-08:00Merry Christmas Eve!Hi! I've missed you!<br />
It's Christmas eve and I'm finally feeling caught up. I've settled in to my new job, all holiday craft shows are finished, and gifts are all wrapped and ready to give!<br />
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Why do cats love being under the Christmas tree?<br />
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Last holiday craft show was this weekend past. See anything you want to buy? I still have products leftover!<br />
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I baked a nice loaf of sourdough this morning. Took it out of the oven to cool and when I removed the loaf from my pizza stone....<br />
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I'm not sure how or why this happened but it sure makes me sad. This pizza stone was a wedding gift back in 1984 and I've lovingly used it for almost 30 years! Maybe Santa will bring me a new one.<br />
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I needed some comfort food after that loss so I decided to make some macaroni and cheese. Having just seen <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2013/12/bonkers-awesome-mushroom-and-onion-shells-and-cheese/">this post and recipe</a> by Joy the Baker, I modified it a little to use what I had on hand and baked up a pan of caramelized mushroom and onion mac and cheese!<br />
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Seriously! What is there NOT to like about this? Carb load to get ready for some drinking while wrapping gifts!<br />
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Gifts are wrapped, stockings are stuffed, I've watched Elf, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and Home Alone today. Life is good.<br />
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Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa or Festivus remember what the true meaning of this season really is. Spend time with the ones you love, family or friends. Tell them you love them. Share your time and energy - it's the best gift you can give!<br />
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Be happy! XOXOAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-43296302039473627492013-12-12T19:45:00.001-08:002013-12-12T19:45:13.745-08:00Waste not, want not!Tonight I finally canned my last batch of fermented sauerkraut. This was the first year I tried sauerkraut and geez, it was so easy! Green cabbage and kosher salt. Seriously, that's all it takes!<br />
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Take two heads of cabbage, save a couple full leaves from the outside and then shred or slice the heads thin and sprinkle with about 3 TBL kosher salt. I use my grandmothers big enamelware pot for this. Then, with your hands, knead and mix the cabbage to get the salt distributed evenly. You'll notice the cabbage wilt and liquid will start to collect in the pot. Cover with a kitchen towel and leave for about 3 hours or so.<a name='more'></a><br />
Then pack the cabbage into a container for fermentation. I use 2 big half gallon canning jars. And when I say 'pack' I mean firmly pack! I use my fist and press the cabbage down into the jars. You want no air pockets at all and as your press, the cabbage will continue to release liquid. Perfect! Once all the cabbage is in your container, pour any liquid left in your pot on top. you want the cabbage to be completely submerged. Take the saved cabbage leaves and cover the top and then weigh it all down. You can see in the photo that I used a jelly jar full of water set right on top of the cabbage leaf.<br />
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The best temperature for fermenting is 60-65F. In the fall, I covered with a cloth and set the jars in my garage. Once it got too cold, I set them right on my kitchen counter (I have a very drafty kitchen window so it stays pretty cool). You'll see bubbling - that's natural fermentation! If any scum or mold forms up top, just scoop it off. Make sure the cabbage stays submerged. If it seems to be drying out, make a little brine and let it cool and add to your container.<br />
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Once it's as sour as you like (it usually takes 4-8 weeks), remove your weight, through away the leaves and either eat your kraut or can it up! And since I was getting the canner ready, I figured I'd make it worth my while!<br />
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Pressure canning is all about patience!<br />
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I also canned carrots and potatoes tonight. Now you might ask "Why can vegetables that are so readily available year round?". Well, I'm doing my best to be less wasteful. This country throws out so much food. You know how it goes...you bought vegetables and fruits a couple weeks ago and never got around to eating them so you throw them in the garbage. I know I've done it but I'm trying not to anymore.<br />
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So.....the week of Thanksgiving I bought a big bag of organic carrots and an even bigger bag of potatoes! Vegetables are always so inexpensive that week! But, alas, I am one small woman who lives alone and can't possibly eat that much. So I canned what was left.<br />
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I nice full load in the pressure canner. Did you know that you can double stack your smaller jars in your canner? Yep. You can. <br />
Load it full, turn on the heat, lock the lid but leave the weight off the vent. Bring it to boil and let the steam escape for 10 minutes and then place the weight over the vent. Bring the pressure up to 10 pounds and adjust your heat to keep the pressure steady. Set your timer for 35 minutes ( depending on what you're canning) and check the pressure regularly. When time's up, turn off the burner and let the pressure drop naturally. I'm not gonna lie - this takes quite a while and I get impatient!<br />
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After the pressure drops, unlock and remove lid and lift jars out with your jar lifter. Set them on a kitchen towel on the counter to cool for 24 hours. Then check seals and remove rings. If any jars didn't seal, refrigerate them and use.<br />
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All this fit in one load! 4 pints of carrots, 3 quarts and one pint of potatoes, and just over 5 pints of sauerkraut. Lids pinging is a beautiful sound to a home canner!<br />
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Time for bed now. Waste less. Be nice to our planet! Become less of a consumer. Sweet dreams.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-33168234067065045732013-12-08T11:06:00.000-08:002013-12-08T11:06:17.671-08:00Sunday Funday?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My Christmas cactus is starting to bloom. It's a beautiful fuchsia color. When my father-in-law was alive he had the most beautiful Christmas cactus plants! I bet they were 20 years old. I always think of him when I see these bloom.<br />
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It's been a busy week again. I'm trying to learn the balance between working a full-time job outside the home and still finding the time for the things and people I enjoy. Needless to say, I'm exhausted.<br />
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I added a brand new tattoo this week! I've had this idea for months but had other financial obligations. Thanks to some really great sales at <a href="http://www.craftymart.com/">Crafty Mart</a> I was able to set aside some fun money for this gem.<br />
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A huge thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KyleElwoodTattoo?fref=ts">Kyle</a> for another beautiful and perfect tattoo. It's really so 'me'.<br />
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Today I slept in until 11am! Whoa, I was really tired. Then this happened...<br />
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I really enjoy French toast. I had a little bit of homemade maple-oatmeal bread so I soaked two slices in a mixture of beaten local, organic, free range egg and some organic almond milk. Added them to my hot cast iron skillet with some melted butter and sprinkled them with cinnamon.<br />
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Browned on both sides and served with home canned spiced pears and drizzled with the syrup from the jar. So warm and delicious. Add a cup of coffee and it's a perfect Sunday breakfast.<br />
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I've addressed and stamped my holiday cards for the mail tomorrow. Now I'm going to watch the Cleveland Browns game while I work on another <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/168676185/crocheted-faux-fox-winter-scarf?">Fox Scarf</a> for a special order. I have a pretty big 'to do' list but I'll work through it one thing at a time. <br />
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I wish you all a peaceful and productive week. Remember what's important (especially in this consumer driven time of year) and spend your time and energy on those you love and care about.<br />
Let's talk again soon!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10212446266265029127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3530836996600007216.post-49777158878023538862013-12-03T17:02:00.000-08:002013-12-03T17:04:16.001-08:00Leftovers!Tuesday is almost over already. I need more hours in the day...or more days in the week...or a clone of myself. But that might end up like the movie Multiplicity and nobody wants another, dumber Monica running around!<br />
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I started my new job today! Exciting new beginnings but I haven't worked full time, outside of my home, for almost five years. It's hard to find the time to fit all the other things I do into a week that's already filled with a job. Never fear! I'll make it happen.<br />
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Came home from work and made some homemade mushroom gravy and mashed potatoes to eat with the leftover Thanksgiving stuffing I still have. Don't be scared to make gravy! It's so easy!<br />
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Mushroom gravy<br />
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Heat 2Tbl butter and 2Tbl olive oil in a skillet.<br />
Add 4oz sliced mushrooms and sauté over medium heat until they are browned and release their juices.<br />
Sprinkle 3Tbl flour over mushrooms and stir to coat them.<br />
Add 1 to 1 1/2C vegetable stock and bring back to a low boil while stirring constantly.<br />
Season with salt and pepper to taste.<br />
That's it. Easy peasy. No lumps. So delicious!<br />
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I sat down to eat and open my mail. Two new cookbooks in today's mail! Woo hoo! Have I told you I have a cookbook addiction? Yeah. It's a thing.<br />
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Last night I worked on hand stamping my Christmas cards. About 20 finished. Not sure if I'll need many more...but if you would like one, leave me your name and address in the comments!<br />
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So much to work on tonight so back to work for me! Have a good night. Tell the important people in your life how much you love them!</div>
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