tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17447302071876762502024-03-17T03:23:11.008-04:00 What About PieBonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.comBlogger264125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-48866528351560447972013-12-11T20:24:00.001-05:002013-12-12T22:42:27.582-05:00An Evening out...Pier 1 and StarbucksLast night the family and I each picked out one new ornament for our Christmas tree. We've made it a tradition to do this most every year. We planned to go to Pier 1 Imports, and I'm glad we did.<br />
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They usually have such an awesome selection, and this year did not disappoint. There were so many beautiful and adorable ornaments, I could have bought 10! My hubby picked out this cute little sock monkey....he is so adorable with his little scarf!<br />
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My oldest son Everest picked out this scruffy, copper glittered squirrel. I just love him! I was eyeing up this one as well!<br />
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I chose this adorable chubbsey little sparkley penguin! I love his scarf and candy cane.<br />
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My youngest son Easton, picked out this transparent, red bulb with a white shimmery swirl. It is soooo pretty! He had a really hard time choosing as well...but this is the one that first caught his eye..so he went for it.<br />
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After we purchased our ornaments, we stopped off at Starbucks for a nice hot beverage! It was freeeeezing cold last night.<br />
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I think it was in the high 20's and the wind was really blowing.....wind chill baby! So, it was pretty nice and cozy inside the land of Starbucks...not to mention how good it smells in there!<br />
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I hope Starbucks doesn't mind...but I went a little "Andy Warhol" on their logo....just for fun!</div>
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I'm glad we got to get out of the house for an evening...it was very nice!</div>
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Merry Christmas!</div>
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<br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com132tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-74131992099416068632013-12-10T10:42:00.002-05:002013-12-10T10:42:57.384-05:00special ornaments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello everyone! I've been absent from my blog for a few months now, and I have tried to get back to it a few times. I think what keeps me from writing, is that I am too conscious of what I THINK others want to read about and look at. And that's just silly. So, I'm going to start again....and try to relax about it a little more. Enough said....onwards and upwards! Yay!</div>
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We put up our Christmas tree this past weekend. My youngest son, who is 12, kept asking to do it since December 1st. I hadn't been motivated yet...but finally, we got to it on December 8th. My youngest son and I rearranged the furniture and brought the tree up from the basement while my hubby was at work for a few hours Saturday morning. </div>
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He assembled the tree by himself and tested all of the lights. Him and I also did the not-so-fun task of putting the lights on the tree...no one here seems to like that part much...and no we don't have one of those pre-lit trees...this tree came to us before pre-lit. So, the best part.....hanging the ornaments...all of the stories that came out about each ornament....when we bought them, where we bought them, who bought them, who made them...lots of "oooooh, I remember this one"....and "here Dad, this one is yours, you put it on the tree". </div>
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I have a few ornaments the boys made in grade school...not a lot...I don't know why other people have so many more than I do. I think it depends on who you get for a teacher...(I guess). Anyhow, I really love the ones with their school photo....just to die for. Sooooo sweet! </div>
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I'm sure my boys don't think these are sooooo sweet...probably roll their eyes...haha! ...but these ornaments warm my heart so much. I miss "them" so much. What I mean by "them" is their little tiny kindergarten selves. So sweet...so tiny...their little voices, little hands, little noses, sweet little smiles....oh my goodness....the best, just the best! Of course they are still so sweet and adorable...as they will ALWAYS be my babies!!</div>
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Most every year, after we put up the tree...we make a special shopping trip where we each pick out a special ornament. Tonight we are going to Pier 1 Imports...they always have awesome ornaments! We also need a new star for the top of our tree. Pier 1 is right near Starbucks...and my youngest son Easton is now in love with the hot apple cider. My hubby brought one home last weekend after doing some trail running in 20 degree weather! yikes! Easton tasted it and LOVED it! So, why do I have this feeling that after we stop at Pier 1, someone, or two, is going to be pointing at Starbucks and pleading! Oh my! We have created a monster! haha! Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all enjoy putting up your tree this year and having a lot of fond memories with each special ornament that's hung!!</div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-65403596405199889892013-08-26T12:56:00.001-04:002013-08-26T12:56:45.578-04:00End of Summer Rut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear World,<br />
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Hello. How are you? I'm okay. I mean, I good. I'm pretty good. All is well with me. I mean, I'm in a rut. A classic rut. Everything is fine. Everyone is healthy. I have no worries and nothing to complain about. For that, I am very, very grateful to God. I mean that..I truly do.<br />
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My Facebook status this morning stated that I am in an "end of summer" rut and I don't know what to do with myself. That's just the best way I can explain it. Although, I think I may be at the verge of pulling out of this rut....I've been in it for about 3 days now...guess I'm tired of my little rut. LOL!<br />
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Oh, I've been in ruts before. They don't last forever. Eventually the rain will come and soften the edges of my rut and I can climb out. Wow, if that's not dramatic! haha!<br />
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So, the garden looks like the Sahara. I'm not as excited to play in there as I was a few weeks ago. My goodness, last month you could not pull me out of there. I was in there sun up to sun down. Weeding, and pulling and caring and cursing. Yes, I curse in the garden. Every time I accidentally knock off a green tomato from the vine...or twist off a yellow leaf and accidentally twist too much that I killed a perfectly healthy part of the plant. Yep, I'm a-swearin' fool when that happens.<br />
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One thing that's a bit weird with me right now....I'm wanting to rush the next season. What the heck? I mean, I'm in Walmart scouring the aisles for Fall candy. I'm checking the local fruit market to see if they've put out pumpkins yet. What is my problem? Oh man, too funny. I usually do not do this. I am usually the one that gets all huffy when the season is rushed. I'm usually the one rolling my eyes when I see hay bales and corn stalks for sale the first of September. Not this year. Nope, I'm an idiot this year. LOL! I'm just laughing at myself here.<br />
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I feel like August has been the longest month for me. I don't think school will ever get here. Well, it will "get here" in exactly 2 days. It's just time. Sometimes the summer just flies by. This year, I think the summer was just about right. And today, I feel like summer should wind itself up and take a chill pill. I wanna go out and cut the grass today, but it is way too hot and humid. I'll think I'll save that task for this evening.<br />
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What's getting to me? What's getting under my skin? What's the deal here? The only thing I can think of is this: monotony. I mean, we all experience it at some point or another. The dishes, the laundry, vacuuming, sweep the kitchen floor, clean the bathrooms. I mean, whaddya gonna do. It is what it is...and I really don't want any life shattering events coming in to mess up a good thing...I just have to get through it. And I will. (I started a sentence with "And"....so sue me. hee hee)<br />
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Well, I guess I have poured out my heart. There really wasn't much to pour, not really....feels a bit dusty and dry...like the earth in my garden. Please God, breathe a spark into my attitude. I don't even feel right asking God for that. That's not right, is it? I should be responsible for my own attitude. Is attitude even the word? What is the word? Good heavens, I can't even put a finger on it. It's my inner being, my self, my consciousness, my purpose, my....what? I don't know.<br />
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What can I do but put one foot in front of the other. Everything is fine. I'll go through the motions. Before I know it, something will spark my interest...I'll get going...the leaves will change color...I will change color. I'll be bright and vibrant...full of energy and interest. So, until then my friends...I need to go water the garden.<br />
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Good day to all!<br />
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Love to all!<br />
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Bonnie<br />
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<br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-2874040710415875392013-08-21T10:47:00.002-04:002013-08-21T10:47:37.984-04:00license plate words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My hubby made me an awesome sign for my garden! </div>
Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-36478312684155823662013-08-02T11:08:00.000-04:002013-08-02T11:08:30.859-04:00my garden runneth over, my cup runneth over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The garden is producing, and I am a dirty mess. </div>
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And I am loving it!!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Isaiah 58:11</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">The</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">will guide</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18798A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">you always;</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
he will satisfy your needs<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18798B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> in a sun-scorched land</div>
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and will strengthen<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18798D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span> your frame.</div>
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You will be like a well-watered garden,</div>
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like a spring<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18798F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> whose waters never fail.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mas3kypA3Ck/UfvGjh3mjLI/AAAAAAAAHMI/WibA8tjgy1Y/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mas3kypA3Ck/UfvGjh3mjLI/AAAAAAAAHMI/WibA8tjgy1Y/s640/me.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To all of you, happy gardening! If you don't have a garden, happy farmer's market! </div>
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I am so grateful to all of you that stop by my blog. Especially considering that I took a few months off and left this space quiet and lonely. I am happy to be back and I am working to reconnect with all of you.</div>
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<span id="goog_1097419034"></span><span id="goog_1097419035"></span><br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-39925748800325335982013-07-31T13:55:00.001-04:002013-07-31T22:33:43.693-04:00my funny facebook status<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hi! I thought I'd share with you, my most recent facebook status. It's pretty humorous, and I thought you could use a laugh.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">"ok, another funny garden story...at my expense!! picked 9 zucchini and put them in a big mixing bowl just inside of the garden, next to the wire electric fence. picked about 8 cucumbers...time to go inside, as my nephew Lucas keeps running away behind the house where I can't see him and it's lunch time anyway. I put Lucas in the house, run outside to plug in the electric fence, start heading back towards the house when I glance over to see the bowl of zucchini....oh, I think to myself, I better get that instead of leaving them lay in the hot sun. I am aware the fence is on....I carefully stretch and reach over the fence, bend down and pick up the bowl, clearing the fence with ease. Wait, a huge ant crawls over the zucchini, I stop to flick it off so I don't take it in the house with me. Now, I am distracted. The ant crawls under the zucchini, I look for it for one second, oh well, forget it. I pick up the bowl but forget to keep my arms extended </span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">out away from the electric wire. BA HAHAHAHA!! I catch the fence on the fatty, soft skinned, sensitive part, of the upper arm, on the under side. I have no clue what has happened to me until it is over lightening quick! I screamed, out loud, kinda like a "YOWWWWWL" sound...pretty loud! The jolt of electricity went down my arm out my finger tips...and completely down my body and out my right foot and toes!! Did I mention I was barefoot???!!! Much worse! If I had rubber flip flops or tennis shoes, I may not have been shocked or may have been mild! Of course, I truly did think it was pretty funny and I laughed out loud! Also, I laughed out loud so my neighbors would think I meant to do that! hahaha! or so they would think I thought that was just plain old fun! Oh yes, anything to avoid embarrassement! I just love getting shocked up and down half of my body on a Wednesday afternoon! Once again....circus act! LOL"</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Oh my, I seem to always have a gardening story for my facebook friends! Hope you enjoyed it!</span>Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-14187232320344945102013-07-31T11:52:00.000-04:002013-07-31T11:52:11.718-04:00mini date night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The hubs and I went out for a little dinner last night. I've been wanting to try to get out a little more, and I came up with a brilliant idea of how I can achieve this. Go LOCAL, spend little TIME, spend little MONEY. I tend to forget all of the great little restaurants tucked here and there, in our neighboring towns. I'm on a mission to try these paces, some of them, for the first time. It's a great way to get in some "alone time", a mini date, with my hubby. Here's the thing: when I get the itch to have date night with my hubby, I tend to agonize over details like: where, when, cost, and fun factor. I set my expectations too high. Date night for us is pretty rare and so I guess that's why I try to make it special. So, instead of making date night a rare occasion, I've decided to make it semi frequent, close to home, and 2 hour increments....give or take. I've also decided to take advantage of the little "gems" in our neighboring towns. There may not be a lot in each little town around here, but each little town does have a precious few. The few that have stood the test of time because they are "mom and pop" places with good eats! So, our first mini date last night went great! I loved it. It was sweet, nice and to the point. We were gone about an hour and a half and it was just right and enjoyable. I'm liking this! <br />
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<br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-16588559112611398002013-07-29T00:03:00.000-04:002013-07-29T00:03:45.033-04:00Beer Battered Fried Zucchini <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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{{Zucchini}} What can I say about it? It's easy to grow, and it's usually, always, a bountiful producer!! Not to mention....zucchini is just one of those versatile vegetables you can do a lot with. You can make bread, cookies, lasagna, salad.....bread it, batter it, fry it.....you name it. One of my favorite "go to" meals for zucchini is breaded and lightly fried, with a sprinkling of salt and pepper {{Yum!}} The other day, I was about to pull out the 'ol bread crumbs, when I realized.....I was out of bread crumbs. Well, what's a girl to do? I could make some bread crumbs, yes, that 's true. But I didn't feel like it, and the oil was already heating on the stove Think..think! Oh! I know! How about some beer batter! Total yum! <br />
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Here's a quick and easy beer batter recipe that I just love. It always turns out so light and crispy! ****In a bowl, beat 2 eggs, add 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup beer, 1 cup flour, some salt and pepper to taste, mix well****Dredge thin slices of zucchini in flour, dunk into beer batter, fry in heated oil in skillet. Lightly brown on both sides. Remove from oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cool. Eat! Close eyes, smile and say yum!<br />
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PS **I like to dip my beer battered zucchini in Caesar salad dressing...just your basic, off the shelf, bottled dressing.<br />
<br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-61035857201869143322013-07-26T11:21:00.000-04:002013-07-26T11:21:04.696-04:00flop or artsy?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OUdPn5t-lLE/UfKS2FdffrI/AAAAAAAAHH8/ffQCaWrzy4A/s1600/daisy'sonmykitchenwindow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OUdPn5t-lLE/UfKS2FdffrI/AAAAAAAAHH8/ffQCaWrzy4A/s640/daisy'sonmykitchenwindow.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
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I love this photo of daisies from my kitchen window. I played around with editing...having fun, trying new things. I really like the way this looks. It's funky and artsy....at least, that's what I think. Anyhow....I posted this pic on Facebook last year and ..................nothing! You could hear crickets! So, either....no one "got it" which is quite possible..........or it is really ugly! hahaha! What do you think? I think it's artsy.Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-27667268489308157802013-07-24T23:52:00.001-04:002013-07-24T23:52:14.344-04:00a day in the garden <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I spent hours stringing up tomatoes today. I'll be back at it bright and early tomorrow morning. I have really been enjoying my time in the garden this summer. Therapeutic!Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-15242434226308210542013-07-23T23:55:00.002-04:002013-07-23T23:55:54.181-04:00Hand Embroidery Show and Tell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hand embroidery. I love it! I make pieces....and then I kinda just keep 'em hanging around. I don't know what to do with them. But, I think I am going to start framing them in these wooden hoops and hang them on a wall....just a nice little collection all hanging together. I'm not sure which room in the house though. Maybe in the upstairs hallway. </div>
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All the way....across the sky! It's so bright and vivid! It's full on! What does it mean?! What does it mean?! Remember the popular YouTube video <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQSNhk5ICTI">Double Rainbow</a>? One of my all time favorite videos! That was the inspiration behind this piece. I wanted to embroider a rainbow....just one rainbow...hence "full on single rainbow."</div>
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Last year's <a href="http://whataboutpie.blogspot.com/2012/06/back-from-cape.html">summer vacation</a>...Cape Cod. A truly nostalgic, beautiful, wonderful, salty dog place! I love it there! I wish I could move there. Twas my inspiration for this piece. </div>
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Sweet little birthday owl...I copied this from a book of iron on transfer designs for embroidery, painting or crafting. Why did I pick this design? Because it's an owl...and I like owls...and he's got a birthday hat on...and I like birthday parties. LOL! Seriously though, I love this big book of transfers. It is from my childhood! I traced so many patterns from it! My mom held onto it for all these years and recently gave it back to me. She keeps everything!! I'm so glad she kept this! This is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Keepsake-Transfer-Collection-The-Book/dp/B00157RP5U">the book</a>.</div>
Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-4532956345759474062013-07-23T02:04:00.000-04:002013-07-23T12:38:18.693-04:00Only a homemade birthday cake will do<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi there! I wanted to share my latest baking adventure with you. My mother in law turned 90 this past week, and I volunteered to make the cakes. It took me all day to bake 2 cakes and make 2 kinds of frosting. It was a long day...but it was fun! I'm a baker at heart, so what can I say? For this first cake, I used <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/2010/10/classic-vanilla-butter-cake/">this recipe</a> for "Classic Vanilla Butter Birthday Cake" from <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/">Sweetapolita</a> and it turned out great! I decided to go with a flags/bunting type of decoration for her main cake. I think buntings are just so adorable on cakes, and I've been wanting to make one. My mother in law got a kick out of the flags as well, and was excited to put them on display in her China closet where she keeps such memorabilia. I made my bunting with scrapbook paper, bakery twine and a dowel rod.<br />
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And.......onto the chocolate cake! Once again, I used a recipe from <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/">Sweetapolita</a>. For the cake part, I used <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/2010/11/rich-ruffled-chocolate-celebration-cake/">this recipe</a> called "Chocolate Celebration Cake". For the frosting, I used <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/2012/03/chocolate-birthday-cupcakes-with-nutella-cloud-frosting/">this recipe: Nutella Cloud Frosting</a>. I loved the flavor and texture of this cake...so dense and such a deep chocolate flavor. The key ingredients are dark cocoa powder, dark chocolate and strong coffee! So delicious!!<br />
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I've baked many birthday cakes in my time....for my kids, my hubby, my parents, my co-workers, friends, extended family. It is my personal belief that everyone deserves a homemade birthday cake for their birthday!<br />
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Do you enjoy baking birthday cakes for your family and friends?Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-6957394209250654652013-07-15T12:50:00.000-04:002013-07-15T12:58:00.124-04:00How to find a local swimming hole in your neck of the woodsswimming hole<br />
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definition: a place, as in a stream or creek, where there is water deep enough to use for swimming.<br />
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My son and I spent Sunday afternoon at one of our local swimming holes. Swimming out in nature is so refreshing and exhilarating! It's been said that cold water swimming is good for you. I can tell you from personal experience, I feel absolutely fantastic during and after swimming in cold, fresh water... no chemicals, just plenty of fresh air and sunshine! Do you have a local swimming hole you love to swim at? </div>
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* HOW TO FIND A LOCAL SWIMMING HOLE WHERE YOU LIVE * </div>
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1) ask the locals, especially people who've grown up in your area</div>
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2) the internet, <a href="http://www.swimmingholes.org/">http://www.swimmingholes.org/</a> scroll down to the map....in the bottom left hand corner there is a box that says "move map to:"....simply type in your county and state and it will bring up the known swimming holes in the area...hover over each spot marked for more information on each spot.</div>
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*As always, use caution and common sense when swimming in nature. Beware of shallow spots and hidden bolders beneath the water...so don't go diving without first checking out if it's safe!! </div>
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Don't forget to pack a picnic basket full of snacks or sandwiches and plenty of cold drinks. We get mighty hungry and thirsty swimming in cold water and climbing around on rocks.</div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-67472889164208598572013-07-12T23:39:00.002-04:002013-07-14T02:16:59.412-04:00I am back!! <div style="text-align: center;">
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Oh my goodness....I'm back! I'm so happy to be back! I took a long break from blogging...and I am ready to get back at it. I just wanted to stop in and make a quick post tonight to say HI! ... and I'm looking forward to reuniting with all of you out there in blog land! I'm leaving you with a photo of my garden. I am so proud of it!! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H_Jvk6O8xq0/UeDIqKR8P4I/AAAAAAAAHCE/oiJ-26kfOUQ/s1600/mygarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H_Jvk6O8xq0/UeDIqKR8P4I/AAAAAAAAHCE/oiJ-26kfOUQ/s400/mygarden.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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This is just ONE part of the entire garden. We are hosting a community garden at our house for a few of our friends that don't have a good space to garden at their home. There are 4 of us all together. Here's a shot of the whole thing. We each have our own space and maintain our own gardens.</div>
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It's been fun chatting with our garden buddies and comparing notes!</div>
Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-86717069617350849812013-02-05T08:18:00.001-05:002013-02-05T08:18:10.601-05:00My Boy Scouts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My Scouts. My 2 boys and my hubby. I absolutely love this photo. It is so classic and timeless. I snapped this shot back in the Fall, just a few months ago. I just knew it would look great altered into something reminiscent of olden times. I fell in love with how it turned out. I want to frame this one for the mantel.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2dqwI89kLI/URBe3-cX6cI/AAAAAAAAG_o/P_LJaMujj2M/s1600/myscouts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2dqwI89kLI/URBe3-cX6cI/AAAAAAAAG_o/P_LJaMujj2M/s900/myscouts.jpg" /></a></div>
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A slightly different version, though still vintage inspired.<br />
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The original shot. Love it!!<br />
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Just wanted to share this photo with you all. As it happens, my guys are at Scouts right this very moment. It is snowing like crazy out there and the roads are very icey!! Tonight, they are having a gear inspection for winter camping this month. They must have at least a 0 degree sleeping bag, and at least 2 sets of thermal underwear, snow pants, water proof boots, hat, gloves, winter coat....and a slew of other cold weather, mandatory necessities to pass inspection and be permitted to winter camp. <br />
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My oldest has winter camped in single digit temps! He's gone 3 times now. This will be the first winter camping for my youngest. My hubby, his Dad, will be there for this camp out so I will be feeling pretty confident he will be just fine.<br />
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When I say winter camping....I mean, camping outside, in a tent, on the ground, in the snow. Scouts are educated on cold weather survival and they take it very seriously. The adult Scout leaders are all trained in how to look for signs of hypothermia and exposure, trained in CPR and First Aid...and the Scouts themselves are trained in those areas as well.<br />
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My oldest son's 2nd time winter camping was in 18 inches of snow. Hiking through 18 inches of snow to the spot and then shoveling out a spot for their tent, putting down straw first, then a tarp, then your tent. They are outside the entire time from Friday night til Sunday morning when they pack up and head home.<br />
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It is definitely a confidence booster for the boys and also a good understanding that they CAN survive against the elements, that they are not helpless and dead out in the cold and snow of winter. I know it will help them in other things in life that come along...they will think about how tough winter camping was and how they got through it and will know they can get through other situations in life equally as hard.<br />
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Winter camping is completely voluntary. You do NOT have to participate. Also, if you feel you do not want to stick it out, you can go home at any time...you can call your parents and have them come pick you up any time of day or night. A few Scouts did end up going home last year. Fortunately, it is not forecast to be as cold this time around....supposed to be around 40 degrees.<br />
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As a parent, I am able to go winter camping with them as well. I am not quite sure that I could do it....but how would I know if I never tried. Do I have a desire to do it??? No, not really....but in a way, I guess I do wonder how I would fare. I have camped in 32 degree weather though....as in that was the low over night and about 50 during the day. Does that count?? This will be my hubby's 2nd winter camping with the Scouts.<br />
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Have you ever winter camped in the snow?? If you have, I'd love to hear about it. Or, if not, do you think you could handle it??<br />
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Okay, now I'm freezing just talking about this! It is 26 degrees outside right now, snowing cats and dogs, I'm freezing my gazoogies off, and I'mma 'bout ready to go put on some water for tea! {What are gazoogies you ask? I really don't know....it's something my mom always said, so if it is inappropriate, I blame my mom! haha!!!}<br />
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Happy winter!Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-52017603521349559212013-02-03T16:50:00.001-05:002013-02-03T16:50:47.004-05:00super soft, sugar cookiesI love soft sugar cookies!! Well, I love the crunchy ones too....but, if I had to choose...I would go with soft. I came across this recipe on the net and was intrigued by the claim that this cookie was guaranteed to turn out a soft, puffy cookie. I have to say, I was not let down!! The dough was perfect...easy to roll out, easy to cut out and easily lifted from the table with a metal spatula. The secret to this dough: cake flour. Buy it, use it, you'll like it!!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9sC_VWrJQA/UQ7DD1oZenI/AAAAAAAAG9M/wMROh8IQy8g/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9sC_VWrJQA/UQ7DD1oZenI/AAAAAAAAG9M/wMROh8IQy8g/s900/cookies.jpg" /></a></div>
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These little colorful heart shaped sprinkles I used are the bomb! They remind me of the 80's with their bright colors. And....being as I was a teenager in the 80's....it just kinda warms my heart is all.
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PaVSFn_aH58/UQ7F0ZIL5ZI/AAAAAAAAG9k/pvtbwhLFmso/s1600/pinkvanilla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PaVSFn_aH58/UQ7F0ZIL5ZI/AAAAAAAAG9k/pvtbwhLFmso/s900/pinkvanilla.jpg" /></a></div>
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I also had some teeny tiny heart sprinkles: red, pink and white. See below.</div>
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I really liked the recipe for the butter cream...so definitely try it if you get the chance. I'll use it again for sure. It is really just a basic butter cream recipe but was just right in my opinion.<br />
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{recipe found on the wonderful blog <a href="http://www.abountifulkitchen.com/2012/02/cutlers-famous-sugar-cookies.html">A Bountiful Kitchen</a>}<br />
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Soft Sugar Cookies<br />
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1 1/2 cups butter<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
5 cups cake flour<br />
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Cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix well. Add dry ingredients and mix. Chill dough before rolling. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick, cut out shapes and bake in 350 degree oven for 10 minutes.<br />
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Butter cream Frosting<br />
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1 cup butter<br />
4 cups powdered sugar<br />
a bit of milk, start with 1 Tbsp and mix, add more milk as necessary to desired spreading consistency<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
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Beat softened butter and powdered sugar til smooth. Add milk and vanilla, mix well. Tint frosting with food coloring. Decorate with sprinkles while frosting is still wet.
Enjoy!!Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-71842719739411366322013-01-12T13:42:00.001-05:002013-01-12T14:18:46.733-05:00saturday morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
saturday morning and I feel peaceful</div>
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just one of those mornings when everything seems calm and cozy</div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-16441446432308945792013-01-09T12:00:00.001-05:002013-01-09T12:00:58.751-05:00BBQ deer chops in a slow cooker<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ISd0-VZ7O6k/UO2h-kjwOSI/AAAAAAAAGzc/Kyc_XAqWW_I/s1600/whitetail_deer_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ISd0-VZ7O6k/UO2h-kjwOSI/AAAAAAAAGzc/Kyc_XAqWW_I/s640/whitetail_deer_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some of you out there have deer meat in your freezer....and you may be wondering what to make with it. Well, I have a fantastic recipe for you! We like deer meat once in a while at our house...well, all of us but one...my youngest son. </div>
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He says to me "Mom, I will eat a cow, but I will not eat a deer." </div>
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And to that, I say "okay."</div>
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So...we have a friend that hunts and he was kind enough to share his game! We were gifted 3 packages each of: </div>
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chops, steaks and ground meat. </div>
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Scouring the internet I found so many delicious looking recipes...it was hard to choose. I decided on a BBQ sauce, slow cooker recipe, and oh my am I glad I did!!! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2CgjEqu5zU/UO2YOgIOKJI/AAAAAAAAGrY/eT44e3cvU2g/s1600/deerchopscollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2CgjEqu5zU/UO2YOgIOKJI/AAAAAAAAGrY/eT44e3cvU2g/s640/deerchopscollage.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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It turned out DEE-LISH-US!!!! !</div>
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We totally scarfed it down! My hubby absolutely loved it. We ate it served on a bed of steam white rice. Mashed potatoes would go beautiful with this dish as well.</div>
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I cooked these chops in this homemade BBQ sauce for about 6 hours on high. You need a good 6 hours to get to the point where the meat is very, very tender! Trust me, it's worth the wait.</div>
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Recipe: BBQ deer chops in a slow cooker</div>
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2 lbs. deer chops</div>
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1 cup ketchup</div>
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2 cups water</div>
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1/2 cup brown sugar</div>
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1 packet onion soup mix</div>
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1 tsp onion powder</div>
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few shakes Worcestershire sauce</div>
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Brown deer chops in skillet in a bit of vegetable oil. Mix remaining ingredients in crock pot. Add the deer chops. Cook on high 5 to 6 hours. If you are not going to be home all day, you can cook on low for 7 or 8 hours. Serve over hot steamed white rice or mashed potatoes. </div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-18140634728268346962013-01-02T22:09:00.000-05:002013-01-02T22:16:58.177-05:00new treasures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tMc6Ov2nwFw/UOTwFjRzHxI/AAAAAAAAGjw/x_raz4hAugw/s1600/acornornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tMc6Ov2nwFw/UOTwFjRzHxI/AAAAAAAAGjw/x_raz4hAugw/s900/acornornament.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's January. We're packing away the ornaments and putting away the Christmas tree. This sweet little acorn birdhouse is so adorable. It was a new purchase this Christmas...my youngest son picked it out. I just love the simplicity of it.<br />
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Another new ornament this year....this awesome hamburger. It's made of that really delicate, glass-like material. My oldest son chose this one. And so....these wonderful ornaments will be lovingly and gently packed away until next Christmas...when we'll unwrap them, smile and say "Ooooh, I forgot about this one!"Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-61476568739726204082012-12-11T09:48:00.001-05:002012-12-11T09:49:41.372-05:00Tuesday, Tuesday...what's for lunch?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">If putting cotton candy in my 5th grader's lunch is wrong, then I don't wanna be right.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">LOL</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Ya gotta have fun sometimes!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Happy Tuesday...do something fun today!</span></div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-71853366567080088692012-12-10T10:01:00.000-05:002012-12-10T10:01:42.073-05:00Monday, Monday...miss the bus...who cares...it's all good.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-38046043995573872572012-12-09T17:44:00.000-05:002012-12-09T17:52:28.334-05:00December crafting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
/// Christmas crafting time \\\</div>
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/// beautiful deer die cuts \\\<br />
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///baker's twine love \\\<br />
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/// handmade tags for my baking business \\\</div>
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/// I only bake for local family and friends \\\<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2VBz2xrZgJc/UMUMEfTdyGI/AAAAAAAAGVU/TvGxvOqRjbQ/s1600/DSCF1041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2VBz2xrZgJc/UMUMEfTdyGI/AAAAAAAAGVU/TvGxvOqRjbQ/s900/DSCF1041.JPG" /></a></div>
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/// my little December specials menu \\\<br />
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/// sweet little deer with bakery twine bow...precious \\\<br />
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/// Here's a peak at just some of the pies I made for my business in November. \\\ </div>
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/// This was my very first sale for Sweet Mamma's Pies & Pastries. \\\</div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-30839715770606872372012-12-06T21:58:00.001-05:002012-12-06T21:58:30.616-05:00gingerbread cookies, old recipe, new designs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gingerbread cookies! I just love 'em! My favorite recipe for gingerbread cut-out cookies came from my Home Economics/Cooking teacher, Mrs. Johns, my senior year of high school, 1988. She made us keep a recipe box all semester. We students would grunt a little, what with the constant copying of recipes from the board. But, I have kept that box, and cherished that box, almost weekly, if not daily, for the past 24 years. I remember, each class, we'd add to it daily. Some recipes Mrs. Johns gave us...some recipes were from other students...some were of dishes we prepared during class. One I'll never forget...Steak in a Bag, cooked in the microwave. We actually cooked a steak, in a brown paper grocery bag, in the microwave. I kid you not! Truth is...it was down right delicious and very tender! I still have that recipe tucked away in that box...and I am never ever gettin' rid of it...or any other recipe in that box...especially the recipe for gingerbread cookies!</div>
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Well, you can't make gingerbread cookies without molasses. Here's the brand I use. </div>
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Brer Rabbit Molasses. Don't you just love the vintage art work on this bottle?</div>
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It is simple, classic and beautiful.</div>
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Ok, let's get to the cookie designs! I could not resist making a gingerbread Yeti. You know, the Abominable Snow Monster that lives in the Himalayan Mountains in Nepal. I guess you might say he is Sasquatch's snowy cousin. LOL! I just love the folklore behind Sasquatch and Yeti. It's just too fun! Don't forget the ever famous clay-mation, Abominable Snow Monster character from Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.</div>
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Boo!</div>
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Beautiful snowflakes...holiday colored Sixlets chocolate candies in the middle. </div>
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Gingerbread Cookie Cut-outs</div>
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1 1/2 cups dark molasses</div>
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1 cup brown sugar</div>
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2/3 cup cold water</div>
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1/3 cup shortening</div>
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7 cups flour</div>
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2 tsp. baking soda</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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1 tsp. allspice</div>
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2 tsp. ginger</div>
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1 tsp. ground cloves</div>
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1 tsp. cinnamon</div>
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Mix molasses, brown sugar, water and shortening with electric mixer. Beat in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate dough until chilled. </div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick. Cut with cookie cutters. Bake 10 minutes. Cool and decorate with any basic decorator frosting and sugar.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
<br />Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-73819784447209124012012-12-04T10:37:00.000-05:002012-12-04T10:39:17.457-05:00old fashioned nut rolls, yields 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A good old fashioned nut roll...just like grandma used to make! Oh my gosh, I just love nut rolls. They are so delicious. I especially love when some of the nut filling oozes out of the roll while baking....it gets all crisp and sugary....oh man, that is the best part! It's pure heaven! There is nothing better than sitting down to a cup of coffee or hot tea and a few slices of nut roll. It just makes my afternoon. Especially on those cold, snowy days....it's the best! </div>
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How do you like this wintery, owl wrapping paper? Isn't it adorable? I bought it at Target, in the Christmas section. (about $5 dollar) I'll be using this paper to make into bags for the nut rolls. I purchased long, clear, "hoagie sandwich" type sleeve baggies to put each roll in. You can usually find them for sale at your local cake and cake supply store. I purchased mine for 14 cents a piece. I wanted something extra special to package the nut rolls in...that's where this cute owl paper comes in! It will make great custom made bags for gift giving!<br />
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Nut Rolls<br />
*makes 5, 15 inch rolls<br />
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the dough:<br />
1/4 C. lukewarm water<br />
2 packets dry yeast<br />
2/3 C. evaporated milk<br />
2/3 C. water<br />
6 C. flour (possibly more, depending on dough)<br />
1 1/2 C. sugar<br />
1 1/2 tsp. salt<br />
1/2 C. butter<br />
1/2 C. vegetable shortening<br />
4 eggs, beaten<br />
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Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and set aside. Beat together eggs, shortening and butter. Add the sugar and salt and mix. Add the evaporated milk and the 2/3 C water, the yeast mixture, and 1 C of the flour. Beat well. Add the remaining flour gradually. It is quite possible you will need more than the 6 cups of flour. Sometimes I need to add as much as 2 1/2 cups of extra flour. You are done adding flour when your dough is no longer sticky and it is smooth and elastic and easy to knead without it sticking to your hands. Don't over add flour...just be careful and do it a little at a time. Knead the dough until smooth. Place in a greased bowl and cover until the dough has doubled in size. This dough will not rise as much as bread dough, so don't worry. Give it a good hour or so, and you will be fine! While the dough is rising, make your nut filling.<br />
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nut filling:<br />
2 pounds shelled walnuts<br />
2 1/2 C sugar<br />
1 C melted butter<br />
2 eggs, beaten<br />
1 1/2 C milk <br />
1/2 tsp. salt <br />
1 tsp. cinnamon <br />
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Grind the walnuts in a food processor for best results. The walnuts should be ground to the consistency of finely chopped. Combine all the ingredients into a large saucepan and cook over low flame until thickened. Stir almost constantly and keep flame low. Cook for at least 10 minutes. Allow nut filling to cool. This will take a while and I sometimes divide up the mixture into 3 separate bowls to help the mixture cool faster. You can refrigerate for a few minutes as well. You don't want to spread the raw dough with hot nut filling, so make sure it is at least cooled down to just warm to the touch.<br />
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assemble nut rolls and bake:<br />
When dough is doubled, divide it into 5 equal parts. Roll each piece out to about 1/4 inch thickness. You do not have to roll dough into a square. Roll the dough out into a circle...not a perfect circle...but a big awkward circle...this will be just fine! Divide the nut filling into 5 equal portions and spread filling on each circle of dough you roll out. Spread to within a 1/2 inch of the edges. Roll up like a jelly roll and tuck in the ends. Place on baking tray. Prick top of roll with a fork a few times and brush with an egg yolk wash. (1 egg yolk mixed with 2 tsp. water) Let roll sit 30 minutes before baking. Rolls do not need to rise like bread dough. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Allow to cool before slicing.
Enjoy!Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1744730207187676250.post-41229089676340308462012-12-03T11:47:00.001-05:002012-12-04T11:22:01.206-05:00I remember.....handmade ornaments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is one of my favorite ornaments. It was made by my son when he was 3 years old. He was in Playgroup at our church...pre school for 3 year olds. My son is now 14. Fourteen. My baby boy is 14. When I think about him, being 3, his tiny little hands painting and glittering this pine cone.....it's just too precious. I wish I could go back in time and glimpse a shot of him, sitting at the table, creating, watching the other kids, waiting for me to come pick him up, giving me this ornament, hanging it on the tree. Days gone by. It's almost torture for a mom to think back on these memories. Though they are fond and precious and sweet and wonderful...the longing to be there again, just for a moment...it's a little torture-ous. Those precious, sweet, innocent days. I miss those days. Little boy, so cute and sweet, red hair, freckles, little nose, little mittens, little winter coat. </div>
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If I told him of this memory, how much I adore it... he would say to me "ok"....and I would have to say "ok??? What do you mean, ok? You should say, aw mom, that is such a nice memory." Then my 14 year old will repeat what I said he should say....in a monotone voice, "aw mom, that is such a nice memory." </div>
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Stinker! </div>
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Kids!</div>
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LOL!</div>
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But, really, I just love this pine cone!</div>
Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485155713261218739noreply@blogger.com5