tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86964169748166234542024-03-13T11:03:00.773-04:00The Darning DragonflySewing clothing, bags, quilts, dyeing fabrics, and other fun stuff!Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-68740438902800164452016-03-24T10:21:00.000-04:002016-03-24T10:24:18.087-04:00Capturing My Grief<div id="yiv4922776709ymail_android_signature" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1458526231240_2353" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; font-family: sans-serif;">Well, I've been hiding out away from my blog so that I can raise my family. I am back now, with a new blog name and hopes to share more of my creative life with you and to connect with more of you!</span><br />
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1458526231240_2352" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; font-family: sans-serif;">In 2012, we had our second son, Cole. He's 3 now, big brother to Alexander, who we lost at 17 weeks gestation last June. It's been a hard journey, and I'm so grateful for the friends who have stuck by my side. Pain and sadness still seeps thru me, and I am constantly learning how to just deal with it. It's hard to connect with people in difficult times, but inside their heart, those who have lost still ache for support from others. My story is heard not only thru words, but in the art I create. Throughout all of my journey, my sewing machines have kept my heart in check.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1458526231240_2351" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; font-family: sans-serif;">During my recovery, which is still ongoing, I had the opportunity to make and create some beautiful works of art.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1458526231240_2347" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; font-family: sans-serif;">A woman in Australia, named Carly Marie lost her son and has been an avid supporter in the baby loss community. Her devotion to healing, love, and nurturing was perilous in my survival. Her project <a href="http://carlymarieprojectheal.com/capture-your-grief-2015" target="_blank">Capture Your Grief</a> opened my heart to so many aspects of grief. Each day during October, a new theme occurs, with an opportunity to take and share pics of what is meaningful to us. I chose to quilt these themes. </span></div>
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We began with the sunrise.<br />
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This one is about intention. Setting your mind to make something happen. Push through. Seek the light through the darkness and walk with it.<br />
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Empathy. To hold space for those who need your being with them. Not to heal, or cure or solve problems, but to sit and allow time and space to hold still. To allow vulnerability.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">This represented each of the 3 pregnancies I've lost. One at 8 weeks, another at 7, and Alexander at 17 weeks.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1458526231240_2383" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; font-family: sans-serif;">I wasn't able to complete the month, as with each new quilt, whirlwind of emotions would flood my mind, leaving me in a much worse state of mind. It didn't heal me at the time and was extremely difficult to endure. Looking back there are no regrets in the art I've created. Like peeling the scab from a wound, it hurts and exposes your body to more agony, with the hope of new skin forming, protecting ourselves once again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I hope to share more of my creations with you all as time will allow!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Thanks for listening!</span></div>
Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-53772974969870494092012-07-29T10:47:00.002-04:002012-07-29T10:47:26.208-04:00Capturing the Season's BestI've been busy tending to my garden and putting up some lovely produce. Home preserving means that you get exactly what you want; nothing more, nothing less. This is from my own garden and local orchards and farms. <br />
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This is my favorite local Farmers Market. (Morgan's Grove Market) Not only do we get produce, but handmade goods as well!</div>
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My own garden. Swiss Chard, butternut squash, cucumbers, carrots, beets, zucchini, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and LOTS of dill! Coriander has gone to seed and has been dried and stored. Another small garden near my deck has more herbs, celery and more cucumbers.</div>
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First canning of the season: japanese cucumber refrigerator pickles. (from the Shepherdstown Farmers Market)</div>
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My first successful beets! Last years were skinny and mostly greens. I added phosphorus to the soil before planting, after researching and realizing my soil lacks it. It's all been a lot of living-and-learning! ;)</div>
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One of my favorite breakfasts! Scrambled eggs with beet greens and basil.</div>
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Vanilla peaches and vanilla Peach Butter</div>
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Zucchini fries! Flour, egg wash, then dusted in cornmeal and rice cereal (not the baby food kind!)</div>
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Roasted Corn Salsa and Peach Nectar. The salsa is the best I've made and I'm looking forward to making some daiquiris with this nectar!</div>
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What are your favorite home canning recipes?</div>
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-21267495038075099872012-03-19T10:16:00.000-04:002012-03-19T10:16:00.613-04:00Protect Yo Kindle Befo it Wrecks Itself<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So my dad turned a big 8-0 last month. A few of us pitched in and got him a Kindle Fire. My dad loves to read and he was so excited to get this!<br />
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I wanted to make a case for him, that was like no other.</div>
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A pocket for notes, a stylus pocket, leather and elastic holders on the edges. It closes with a braided elastic cord, that can be replaced as it gets stretched out with use. The cord also connects to the tab on the left side, acting as a brace.</div>
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This is a design that I made up, with inspiration from a few different cases I saw on the internet.</div>
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Leather scraps were used for the outer, and a beautiful bird print lines it. The stiff-ness comes from a book cover, trashed by my son over the past few months.</div>
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It ain't easy, working with leather. Kind of a one-shot-deal. Once you punch holes in that sucker with your needle, it's there forever. <br />
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Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-79622936838992729802012-03-15T14:37:00.000-04:002012-03-15T14:37:02.526-04:00Rolling out the Greens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over the weekend, I made some Canneloni. I used up the rest of a bag of fresh baby spinach for the fresh pasta, and filled it with a roasted butternut squash, carrot & cheese filling. <br />
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I guess the green color just made it too weird, because I was the only one enjoying this dish.<br />
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I had a great little sous chef, though!<br />
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-19233911275655940282012-03-07T10:28:00.000-05:002012-03-07T10:28:42.633-05:00DIY Pattern WeightsPattern weights are awesome. I never knew how they were made until recently. I had originally thought people painstakingly wrapped fabric around the edges of the washer, thru the inside, like wrapping a hula hoop w/ tape. What the hell are they? Well, they're small weighted pieces you can place on top of your pattern paper when cutting. They are really useful for rotary cut items and are so much faster than pins.<br />
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Here's how I made mine.<br />
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I went to Home Depot and looked for the largest washers I could find. It might take a while to find these, so ask someone if you can't find the big ones.<br />
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Cut out circles of fabric. I'm not really quite sure how big these circles are. I used flannel to give light padding and to make it a little more non-skid. Just trace around your washers, giving enough seam for the width of the radius. This gives enough room for the fabric to wrap around the edges and meet in the middle. Doesn't make much sense, me trying to explain it, so hopefully the pics will help.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hand-sew a running stitch all the way around the edges. Place the washer in the center and pull the thread tightly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sEuRsxf9asw/T1d7STaGaHI/AAAAAAAAA5g/eDanhq_wPvY/s1600/20120229_1255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sEuRsxf9asw/T1d7STaGaHI/AAAAAAAAA5g/eDanhq_wPvY/s320/20120229_1255.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I ended up stitching thru close to the original stitching line, reinforcing it before I knotted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uz3nnlqMbo0/T1d6_Oc3XDI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/KoMxefjiN4U/s1600/20120229_1252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uz3nnlqMbo0/T1d6_Oc3XDI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/KoMxefjiN4U/s320/20120229_1252.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can use more than one washer, or mix 2 washers of different sizes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bFBgGuzr1uM/T1d7aOrzvvI/AAAAAAAAA5o/le9yyhSSrtM/s1600/20120229_1256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bFBgGuzr1uM/T1d7aOrzvvI/AAAAAAAAA5o/le9yyhSSrtM/s320/20120229_1256.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0O7mioIVME/T1d7jCV1AcI/AAAAAAAAA5w/G1vRL5iDUqs/s1600/20120229_1257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0O7mioIVME/T1d7jCV1AcI/AAAAAAAAA5w/G1vRL5iDUqs/s320/20120229_1257.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-76978386300522334992012-03-05T09:15:00.000-05:002012-03-05T09:15:09.932-05:00Clutch Bums<div style="text-align: center;">Reduce</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASUTIARCrBo/T1THng2mc8I/AAAAAAAAA4o/qs7Px_G3GTU/s1600/IMG_7130_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASUTIARCrBo/T1THng2mc8I/AAAAAAAAA4o/qs7Px_G3GTU/s320/IMG_7130_1.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Reuse</div><div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"> Recycle</div><br />
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I have some old t-shirts tucked away in one of my sewing drawers, just waiting to become something else one day in life. These have an inner and snap-in liner made of fluffy <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/highendfabrics" target="_blank">Bamboo Fleece</a>. A <a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=kam+snap+pliers&_sacat=0&_odkw=snap+plier&_osacat=0&_trksid=p3286.c0.m270.l1313" target="_blank">snap plier set</a> easily makes these adjustable, but you could use a snappi or sew on Velcro, which the babes LOOOOOVE to rip off.<br />
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There are lots of <a href="http://www.diaperjungle.com/sewing-cloth-diapers.html" target="_blank">free patterns</a> for cloth diapers on the internet. If you have a sewing machine, VERY basic sewing skills, and some absorbent fabric, you can make your own stash of diapers for so much less than buying them. You can customize your child's fit, use your own fabrics and feel so warm and hippy-like. Then your kid shits in them, and the thrill is kinda gone. At least they look cute from behind!Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-27600187407342368442012-02-22T13:41:00.001-05:002012-02-22T13:41:28.992-05:00Cheesy Vegetable Beer Soup<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pp9xdf_qnIE/T0UyYJ4-XZI/AAAAAAAAA30/2UmWDkL48as/s1600/beercheesesoup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pp9xdf_qnIE/T0UyYJ4-XZI/AAAAAAAAA30/2UmWDkL48as/s320/beercheesesoup1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nothing like a good ol cuppa soup to warm your buns for these chilly nights, huh? This vegetable soup went creamy, as part of my soft foods diet after getting my wisdom teeth ripped out a couple of weeks ago. I had a hankering for broccoli cheese soup, but didn't quite have enough broccoli. I decided to clean out the veggie drawer and whip this up.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U_oePoVB5hc/T0U0VSCq_dI/AAAAAAAAA38/5iTWEXsZFIY/s1600/IMG_7026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U_oePoVB5hc/T0U0VSCq_dI/AAAAAAAAA38/5iTWEXsZFIY/s320/IMG_7026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The veggies are cooked in a normal fashion to make soup. But the magic happens when beer and cheese combine. I used a hoppy ale, but use whatever you'd like. Not into beer? Then the soup will not be what it is supposed to be. . .BEER cheese soup. Go find another recipe or replace with stock & milk.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F95QMJcoPqs/T0U0fzI9DcI/AAAAAAAAA4E/E61WbxC-nIo/s1600/IMG_7027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F95QMJcoPqs/T0U0fzI9DcI/AAAAAAAAA4E/E61WbxC-nIo/s320/IMG_7027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pair it up with homemade bread, and you'll be a TRUE hippie.</div>
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<u><b>Cheesy Vegetable Beer Soup</b></u></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 Tbs Butter</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 Cups Broccoli florets and stems, chopped</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 large zucchini, chopped</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 medium onion, chopped</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">3 medium carrots, scrubbed and chopped</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 lbs mixed sweet and white baby potatoes</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">3 cloves garlic, finely minced</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 tsp ea: dried thyme & salt</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp pepper</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">6 cups water</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 Tbs Better than Bouillon Vegetarian Vegetable Flavor</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 C baby spinach</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> 2 Tbs Butter</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/4 C flour <i>(white or whole wheat is fine)</i></li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 Beer</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1-2 Tbs mustard, to your liking</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 cups shredded cheese <i>(I used a mixture of what I had on hand. Important thing is to include plenty of sharp cheese)</i></li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/3 C Heavy cream <i>(*optional)</i></li>
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<li>Saute vegetables (except spinach) in 1 1/2 Tbs butter for 5-10 minutes, or until slightly softened. Add water, seasoning, & bouillon, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until veggies are tender. Add the spinach and cover the pot. Take off the heat and allow to cool while you prepare the cheese sauce.</li>
<li>In a separate pot, melt 2 Tbs butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Add the mustard, then slowly add the beer, whisking it in. Allow to cook for about 4-5 minutes over medium heat, until thick and bubbly. Take off the heat, and fold in the cheese and stir until smooth. Set aside.</li>
<li>Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also do this in a blender in batches, but I think that just leaves more dishes to do and is a pain in the ass. Go get a fricken immersion blender! You'll get this cute little chopper cup that is PERFECT for garlic and herbs with it, too!</li>
<li>Using a whisk, slowly incorporate the cheese sauce mixture into the soup. Add cream and serve.</li>
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</div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-28288745243894706802012-01-11T17:52:00.001-05:002012-01-11T18:32:12.617-05:00Adventures in Cake Decorating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E_N_8-N2hnM/Tw4CMD70dsI/AAAAAAAAA3I/8vgv9NIFBsI/s1600/jamesbday6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E_N_8-N2hnM/Tw4CMD70dsI/AAAAAAAAA3I/8vgv9NIFBsI/s320/jamesbday6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This past weekend, we enjoyed celebrating our son's 2nd birthday with friends and family. Basically, an excuse to put my culinary curiosities into motion! Read: eat chocolate.<br />
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I googled cake recipes, searching for a sheet cake recipe, as I had planned on a Train theme cake. The sheet cake would be the ground. <br />
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King Arthur Flour is a staple brand in my flour consumption. I found <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/golden-vanilla-cake-recipe" target="_blank">this recipe</a> and was really happy with it. A beautiful crumb, substantial, yet light and rich at the same time. <br />
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I really don't like sticky sweet frostings. Most of the store bought ones make me want to gag. The frosting I made was so freaking good you may start dreaming about it after it's eaten. My sister-in-law claimed she'd like to throw her head into an entire bowl and live there. Or something like that. Get my point? It's <b><i>that</i></b> good.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><u>German Buttercream Frosting</u></b></span></div>
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adapted from <a href="http://bravetart.com/recipes/GermanButtercream" target="_blank">Bravetart</a></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 cups whole milk</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 vanilla pods</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">12 oz. sugar</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 oz. corn starch</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 eggs</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 egg yolks</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">4 sticks butter (1 lb), softened</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/4 tsp salt, or to taste</li>
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<ol>
<li>Prepare a pudding. Split the vanilla beans, and drop into milk. Bring to a simmer. Allow to steep for about 10 minutes. Remove pods, then scrape the insides out and put them back into the milk. Put the milk back on to a simmer. </li>
<li>Stir together sugar, corn starch, egg yolks & eggs. Whisk in about half of the simmering milk, stirring rapidly with a wire whisk the entire time. Add the tempered egg mixture to the pan and bring to a boil. Stirring the ENTIRE time. Once the mixture is bubbling, cook for one minute. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.</li>
<li>Place pudding into a mixing bowl and mix on medium until cooled to room temperature. You can also chill in the refrigerator with some plastic wrap pressed firmly on the surface of the pudding.</li>
<li>Once the pudding has COMPLETELY chilled, put it back into your stand-up mixer. Crank that baby up and let it get creamy. Now here comes the magical part. Start throwing in that butter. Tablespoon by tablespoon, drop into the running mixture, allowing it to incorporate after each addition. It will get more and more fluffy as it mixes. Don't over mix or it will get dry looking.</li>
<li>Mix in 12 oz melted dark or milk chocolate for a decadent and beautifully shiny chocolate frosting or tint with coloring or flavoring. I divided mine in about half and used about 6 oz of bittersweet chocolate, melted in the microwave, then stirred carefully into the remaining frosting.</li>
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My cake decorating skills obviously suck, but I really don't care. What I care about most is a cake that tastes good. Fondant has always grossed the shit out of me. I don't care how pretty the damn thing is. If it tastes like plastic, it is a failure, IMO. </div>
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So, this cake? It's supposed to be a train.</div>
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I used colored sugar sprinkles and natural food dye from <a href="https://www.chocolatecraftkits.com/shop/" target="_blank">Chocolate Candy Kits</a>. The colors don't turn out nearly as bright as conventional food dyes, but I made it work. I was going for a red for the front train car, but it was only going to a darker pink. A little bit of yellow and voila! Orange-ish. . . </div>
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The sprinkles were yummy! Reminded me of the cookie filling in those ice cream cakes we'd get when we were kids from Carvel.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-07LSZYWB73Q/Tw4bHYwEywI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/94OuHeKxJ-o/s1600/IMG_6955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-07LSZYWB73Q/Tw4bHYwEywI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/94OuHeKxJ-o/s320/IMG_6955.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I also made this banner out of scraps and pieces from my stash. So everyone could enjoy it on his or her birthday, I made it multi-colored. I like to keep my scraps of fusible interfacing fabrics in zippered plastic bags by color. I have all of these in a large plastic bin. It makes it really easy to be able to grab a scrap of, say, yellow, and cut a moon quickly to add to an applique scene. <br />
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Each flag is backed by matching fabrics. I simply strait-stitched the letters on and serged the edges in colorful threads.<br />
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My boy had a blast with everyone. Ripping thru wrapping paper like an old pro. Afterwards was just as fun, blowing up balloons and investigating coolers.<br />
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</div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-17481785520935822872011-11-12T08:52:00.001-05:002011-11-12T10:13:18.421-05:00Sweet HeatI'm back on Blogger! My laptop is pretty much done with. I got a new camera a few months ago and took tons of beautiful pictures. I'm pretty good about saving my pictures religiously to my computer and getting them off my camera's memory card. Well, a sorry-ass computer is NOT cool for keeping those pictures on! I quickly filled it's capacity with RAW files over and over and over again! I decided to go to an online backup saving system, and chose Carbonite. It backs up all the files you want so you can restore your computer or access them when you're away from home. <br />
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Here we are, almost 3 months later, and Carbonite is finished uploading! Yes, it took over 2 months to backup my 60 gigs of crap from my old computer.<br />
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Not sure if I mentioned or not before, but this past Summer began my debut of home canning. At a local farmers market shop, I saw a beautiful display of blackberries, at their peak, and swarming with fruit flies. "Eat Me!" came to mind, and so did "Jam me, baby!" Two for one on sale, I picked up several baskets, along with some fragrant peaches and colorful tomatoes.<br />
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And so it began.<br />
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I bought the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ball-Complete-Book-Home-Preserving/dp/0778801314/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321106827&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Ball Canning</a> book, one of the best things ever created for people who thought canning was a thing of the past, or something that you'd have to slave over. Sure, it isn't something that you can whip up in a few minutes, but, as with most things in life, it takes time and patience and you'll be rewarded ten fold. <br />
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I began with a couple of standard jams, and moved onto a few sauces. My absolute <b>favorite</b> item so far is the <b><a href="http://www.foodinjars.com/2010/09/tomato-jam/" target="_blank">Tomato Jam</a>,</b> from the <i><a href="http://www.foodinjars.com/" target="_blank">Food in Jars</a></i> website. Sweet and spicy, this jam gets slathered onto cream-cheese'd homemade bread, crackers or bagels, as a spread for veggie burgers, and mixed with mayo and balsamic for a mock-thousand island dressing in my Seitan Rueben Sandwiches, and so much more. It's first bite is creamy sweetness, then a bit of warmth surrounds your taste buds, leaving them yearning for another bite. <br />
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This used up some of my own tomatoes (even green ones!), in my late Summer garden, along with some beautiful heirlooms from the local farmers market. In my second batch, I used up some not-so-good-looking tomatoes from another stand (which I question the "local-ness" of), and it was equally as good. My second batch was kicked up with some garlic, onion powder and a bit of cumin.<br />
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You'll have a large pot filled with stuff, which you'll cook the shit out of. Mine took me about 1 1/2-2 hours, but it might take less cooking time if you use more pastey tomatoes, like Romas. I just used what I could find.<br />
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<a href="http://www.foodinjars.com/2010/09/tomato-jam/" target="_blank">Click here for the recipe.</a><br />
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Hope to be back soon! </div>
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-32226295410844191282011-08-26T19:31:00.001-04:002011-08-26T20:15:47.049-04:00Fun Fair FridayBe sure and make it out to your local fair for an interesting time!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: lime;">Have a great weekend, everybody!</span></span>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-15510518327058358072011-08-16T20:20:00.000-04:002011-08-16T20:20:35.776-04:00Breaded Zucchini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roWFdE7qWQE/TksIQXFYL2I/AAAAAAAAAz4/7022lRoJhUU/s1600/IMG_6007_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roWFdE7qWQE/TksIQXFYL2I/AAAAAAAAAz4/7022lRoJhUU/s320/IMG_6007_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Drop your zucchini "sticks" into seasoned flour, then seasoned beaten egg (with a bit of milk), then into a seasoned mixture of panko and italian breadcrumbs. <br />
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Fry at 350 for about 3-5 minutes, or until deep golden brown.<br />
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We used a yellow zucchini, bought at our local <a href="http://www.orrsfarmmarket.com/">Farmer's Market</a>. Serve with your favorite (homemade, of course!) marinara as a side, or appetizer. Tonight, we had meatball subs.Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-68528137362498442912011-08-12T15:12:00.004-04:002011-08-15T09:49:17.785-04:00DIY Furniture PolishWE ARE NOW MOBILE! CHECK US OUT ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE FOR EASIER NAVIGATING!!<br />
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Back to the blog post. . .<br />
I just recently ran out of my furniture polish; a bottle we've had for probably about 8-9 years. Seriously. Either I didn't do enough dusting up until now, or maybe it really was "a dab will do" type of product. It smelled weird. But my whole philosophy about going green includes not throwing away perfectly good products, just to go out and buy new ones, albeit eco-friendly ones. <br />
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I knew coconut oil was so fabulous for so many things, I thought, well, there's got to be a way to shine this table up! After searching very briefly, I was able to find a great collection of recipes from <a href="http://www.joys-of-lavender.com/lavender-furniture-polish.html">Joys of Lavender</a> and make my own recipe up from there.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>Lavender Furniture Polish</b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 oz olive oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 oz coconut oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 oz beeswax</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup distilled water</div><div style="text-align: center;">8 drops lavender essential oil</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Melt the olive oil, coconut oil and beeswax in a large glass bowl and microwave on medium for 30 second intervals. Remove from oven and stir, until all the wax is melted. Mine took about 90 seconds, but I also let it sit out on the counter for a bit. The remaining heat in the bowl continues to melt the wax as it sits. Stir in the lavender oil. Using a hand mixer, gradually add in the water, a few drops at a time. I was not able to incorporate all of the water before it chilled up on me and wouldn't take any more. You'll end up with a creamy consistency.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Store in a sealable container and it's good for about 6 months. I didn't use distilled water, so mine probably won't last as long. To use, scoop a small amount onto a soft cloth and rub in. Keep working vigorously until you cannot see any more of the white creamy texture. Continue along the entire surface. Follow up with a clean soft cloth and buff out.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-34892817782195793112011-07-20T20:22:00.007-04:002011-07-20T21:39:02.159-04:00Roasted Root Veggie Bites<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KL9y5IoM1W8/Tid-vxWFF_I/AAAAAAAAAzo/xyAoCJIcuVs/s1600/rootveggitbitesB.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KiDccpRhxr4/Tid7tzIgVDI/AAAAAAAAAzg/BUUUYQg9H3U/s1600/rootveggitbitesA.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KiDccpRhxr4/Tid7tzIgVDI/AAAAAAAAAzg/BUUUYQg9H3U/s320/rootveggitbitesA.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631605885800305714" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Here we have this cute baby, who just LOVED to eat everything he was given. Peaches, broccoli, avocado, sweet potato, spinach--he would just tear into it! Then, all of a sudden, he's dropping vegetables off the side of his food tray as if they were dead bugs.</div><div><br /></div><div>Enter the hiding-vegetables-in-cheese maneuver. Yeah, I didn't want to be one of those moms who had to freaking HIDE things to get my kid to eat them! But what are you going to do? He can't live on Pirates Booty! </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm kicking myself in the ass right now for not taking pics while preparing these fun little patties. The beautiful pile of finely diced crimson red, sunflower yellow and ivory white beets, succulent carrots and striking blue baby potatoes was just brilliant! Ah well, there's always next time!</div><div><br /></div><div>The great thing about these is that they are portable, great hot or cold, and packed full of goodness! You know how they like to run away from the table</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B01bIMgQGC0/Tid5w9LCfII/AAAAAAAAAzY/VRn5buJTsS0/s320/IMG_5686small.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631603741011639426" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>You'll need to start with cooked vegetables. We often use chopped broccoli, but last night I used about 1 1/2-2 cups worth of aforementioned vegetables and a nice handful of raw chopped Swiss Chard. Stir in about 3 beaten eggs, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup bread crumbs. I added some garlic and onion powder, but you can skip this if you really want to keep it mild. Season with salt and pepper.</div><div><br /></div><div>Carefully shape into patties and bake on a greased cookie sheet for about 15 minutes. Turn them over, then cook for another 8-10 minutes. </div><div><br /></div><div>We like ours with plain old ketchup, but a sour cream sauce might work great, too!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KL9y5IoM1W8/Tid-vxWFF_I/AAAAAAAAAzo/xyAoCJIcuVs/s320/rootveggitbitesB.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631609218214991858" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-85103345668192370542011-07-17T10:10:00.003-04:002011-07-17T10:17:50.732-04:00Pesto Egg Sammy<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b94ht60K9WQ/TiLu4KsuE4I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/CJpt5k89Y3w/s1600/pestoeggbiscuit.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b94ht60K9WQ/TiLu4KsuE4I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/CJpt5k89Y3w/s320/pestoeggbiscuit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630325132878549890" /></a><br />Pesto, Egg, Soysage & Aged Cheddar on a biscuit. Looks freakin good, doesn't it?! Only downfall is having shit breath for the rest of the day. . .<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-58578504096749801722011-07-05T11:52:00.001-04:002011-07-05T11:53:18.891-04:00Taking the Bull by the Horns<div style="text-align: center;">Or, getting the most out of your iPhone 4. I upgraded yesterday and have been playing with my phone ever since. We are not new to the iPhone world. I've had one for about 2 years now and love the heck out of it.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are some apps I use almost every day, and some, well, they just plain suck. We'll talk about the good ones today.</div><div> </div><div>The app most used on my phone is the <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/app/kindle/id302584613?mt=8">Kindle</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.geardiary.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/amazon-kindle-iphone.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 311px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>I love how I can bring my book with me WHERE EVER. The iPhone version is in full color (where it applies), where the original version is in boring black text only. While this doesn't really bother me for general reading, it does add to bright colored apps my son likes to fool around with. We'll get to those later in this post.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is also a Kindle app for the iPad, which kicks major ass, too. One of the best parts about this is you can sync up both (or all 3, if you have the original Kindle) to find the last place you've read. As you read along, you can highlight things you find important, and even look up a word you don't know. It has a dictionary that you'll download as soon as you need to use it. The text can be changed from white to black background, making the screen seem darker, and less intrusive for those little eyes trying to close while I read. </div><div><br /></div><div>People with kids know how much they love trying to steal your phone, no matter what is going on. I really like how I can have this little gadget in my hand, instead of a book that my child will destroy. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Any woman in their child-bearing years will love the <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-cycles/id335875911?mt=8">My Cycles</a> app.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.medhelp.org/images/landing_pages/MyCycles_SEO_landingPage.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 414px; height: 508px; " /></span></div><div>You'll be able to keep track of your periods on here, including information on symptoms and moods, like cramps, edginess, etc. For those trying (or not trying!) to conceive, this is a great tool that leaves you no excuse for not marking your important dates.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Those of you that do not know about <a href="http://www.pandora.com/on-the-iphone"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Pandora Radio</span></a> need to get on the ball. I mean, if you like FREE music! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://trendyboy.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pandora-for-iphone-4.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 650px; height: 466px; " /></span></span></div><div>If you have external speakers, or an auxilary input for your vehicle or home stereo, you'll be gittin your groove on in no time! You'll put in your favorite artist, song or genre and the genius little doo-hicky will play some great songs! Don't like one of them? Just skip it to the next track! Love one of the songs? You can easily click on the link to buy the album or song. <i>Note: setting your iTunes up for instant purchases can be DANGEROUS! </i>We rock out to all kinds of music, and also, the Toddler channel and the newly added comedy stations. Every 15 minutes or so of playtime, a short ad, of about 10 seconds plays, so it's not too annoying. Hint: don't give the "thumbs up" unless you want a more repetitive playlist.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>One of my Go-To apps when searching for any brick and mortar place is <a href="http://www.futuretap.com/home/whereto-en/">Where To</a> . If you want to find a local place to eat, get your hair cut, play at a park, or countless other places, this is the app to get! I love how it shows the distance from your current location, and gives the website so you can hop online for more info.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.futuretap.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/whereto-iphone.png" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 448px; " /></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Another similar app, with more user-based info, is <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/yelp/id284910350?mt=8">Yelp!</a> I'm really digging the reviews! So many people complain about food at restaurants! It's like they expect made-from-scratch high quality ingredients for fast food prices, and wait staff that kisses your ass. </div><div><br /></div><div>iPhone apps we love for our little (18 month old) guy:</div><div><ol><li><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/animals-sound-machine/id286040168?mt=8">Animals Sound Machine</a></li><li><a href="http://www.babyfirsttv.com/mobile/iphone/babyfirst-mobile">BabyFirst</a></li><li><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-me-stories-childrens/id362042422?mt=8">Read Me Stories</a></li></ol></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">What are some of your favorite apps?</span></span></div><div> </div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-74197048451514747612011-06-16T16:29:00.006-04:002011-06-16T17:30:01.981-04:00Whur Yat?<div style="text-align: center;">Well, I'm here! Sorry I've been so out of the loop. Little things like this keep me occupied.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnBUq758QTA/TfppqOzf3nI/AAAAAAAAAxM/Xw1NeHUL7SE/s400/jamescabinet2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618919659347631730" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>Yep. Keeping up after a normal household alone with a 17 month old is hard enough. My old activities of hour long sewing sessions, late night solo batik parties, and thoughtful blog postings are pretty much out the window. </div><div><br /></div><div>It seems like the little time I have to create is going to things for myself or my family. Today I'm painting the hallway bathroom of our new house. It's my first experience painting anything "real", besides crap I screwed around with while living at my parents house, and experimenting with, and then eventually abandoning unfinished, in previous rental houses. What a pain in the ass! What the heck was I thinking of, starting a project like this with my husband out of town? </div><div><br /></div><div>One successful project was these seat cushions I recovered. They were passed down to us from a family member. Their old condition was a medium brown that definitely needed replacing. I could have just done a simple job, but you know me! Gittin all creative and stuffff!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5bT0Z26X0Mg/Tfptb1UKPxI/AAAAAAAAAxU/wik4gkmLTrk/s400/IMG_5516.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618923810033647378" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><div>Here are some food pics to help urge you into the kitchen. Sorry, no time for recipes today. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Fajita Night (Family dinner @ my folks house)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sihfUgT9L2o/Tfpwquh-frI/AAAAAAAAAx0/TSq74KNyINU/s400/fajitafamilydinnernite.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618927364445470386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Veggie Mac n Cheese </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp1q76wGgEY/Tfpwp9aJukI/AAAAAAAAAxs/xXzVrdC_BO0/s400/kristimacnchz.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618927351259314754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Rosemary Focaccia</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hEfI5wpOXkA/Tfpwphs1O_I/AAAAAAAAAxk/KqR_0yf_YEc/s400/rosemaryfocaccia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618927343821470706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Black Bean & Swiss Chard Enchiladas</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgdeelbiGSw/Tfpwpb95zII/AAAAAAAAAxc/htchX3e9lBM/s400/blkbeanchardenchiladas2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618927342282460290" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></span></span></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-59752776671181526582010-12-13T12:32:00.005-05:002010-12-13T12:58:03.409-05:00Veggie Pot Pie<div style="text-align: center;">Cold weather means comfort food in this house. That warm-your-belly kinda stuff. Food that reminds me of bein' a kid.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TQZZMF4YPFI/AAAAAAAAAwY/Ii7zjT-rmOs/s400/vegpotpie.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550221655052663890" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TQZeGW5GaPI/AAAAAAAAAwo/yCMQ1r8_tfE/s400/chickenpotpie.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550227054098016498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First, you'll need to make up the crust. I just kind of threw it all together, but this is basically what I used:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2 cups flour (I used about 2/3 regular, 1/3 wheat)</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 tsp baking powder</div><div style="text-align: left;">3 Tbs cold butter, cut into 1/2" cubes</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 Tbsp shortening</div><div style="text-align: left;">ice cold water</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>*this was enough dough for 1 standard pie plate, plus a small casserole dish that I used for hubby's chicken pot pie*</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">whisk the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Cut in the fat, using a pastry cutter or two butter knits, or just massage it in with your fingers. Once the mixture has pea-sized lumps and smaller, slowly add in a couple of tablespoons of water, until the mixture can be formed (by mushing) into a ball. Gather it all up, pressing in any extra flour around the bowl. Form it into a flat disk and cover with plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now you'll need to make the filling.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Last night I used:</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 carrots, sliced</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 medium potatoes, diced</div><div style="text-align: left;">handful of broccoli bits</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 cup each frozen green beans and shelled edamame (soy beans)</div><div style="text-align: left;">(butternut squash is awesome in this!)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch each vegetable separately until tender crisp. Once they have been cooked, chill in cool water and set aside.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Meanwhile, make the sauce.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Saute 1/2 cup chopped onion in 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Cool until tender, then add 1 head roasted garlic, skins removed. Stir in 3 tbsp flour, then add 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and herbs (like thyme, basil, etc), and add the cooked vegetables. Set aside.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Roll out the pastry to 1/8" thickness, making sure it is large enough for the pot that you'll cook it in. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Spoon the filling into a pie shell.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Top with 1/2 cup shredded Dubliner cheese. <i>(parmesan or cheddar would be great, too!)</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Beat 1 egg and brush the edge of the pie plate with it.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Place pie shell over top, pinching the edges under for a thicker edge crust. Brush with beaten egg and make a few slits for the pie to breath while it cooks.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I put the dishes on a cookie sheet to catch any drips.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Bake at 350 for about 25 minutes.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span> <div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TQZZMeXcxGI/AAAAAAAAAwg/pPLSTojtBgw/s400/vegpotpieslice.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550221661625435234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-55629975693597235852010-07-18T13:37:00.005-04:002010-07-18T13:52:17.564-04:00Vegetarian Pesto BLT<div style="text-align: center;">Vegetarian Pesto BLTs</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TEM-siRmNII/AAAAAAAAAwA/2uM04LwCWuc/s320/BLT1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495304905157915778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>3 Tbsp mayonaise</div><div>1-2 Tbsp prepared pesto</div><div>6 slices cooked vegetarian bacon (I really liked <a href="http://www.lightlife.com/product_detail.jsp?p=tempeh_smokystrips">this brand</a>)</div><div>4 leaves lettuce</div><div>1 large tomato, sliced</div><div>salt, to taste</div><div>4 slices bread, toasted</div><div><br /></div><div>Mix first 2 ingredients to make Pesto Mayonaise. Spread evenly onto toasted bread. Top with remaining ingredients and eat!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TEM-tMfjaeI/AAAAAAAAAwI/fylkbDONTBE/s320/BLT2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495304916490742242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-7741557477785801732010-06-26T09:00:00.006-04:002010-06-26T09:35:28.863-04:00Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9iARhT7I/AAAAAAAAAvE/e6v0gwF8uFc/s1600/unwrappedcupcake.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9hU7prPI/AAAAAAAAAu0/t7ljLX-8nxo/s1600/frostedcupcakes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9hU7prPI/AAAAAAAAAu0/t7ljLX-8nxo/s320/frostedcupcakes.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487070470017232114" /></a><br />When the CSA gives you blueberries, obviously you need to make blueberry cupcakes. I mean, ya can't just let them go bad! One of the great parts about this recipe is that it makes just one dozen. I mean, I love them, but surely I DO NOT need to eat a dozen of them in a matter of days.<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX87EqoaII/AAAAAAAAAuE/ERXS0JhuUuk/s320/ingredients.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487069812815849602" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span>This blog has gone to shit lately and I apologize. I'm not even going to lie and say that I'll do my best to keep up with it. Here's a new post and who knows when the next one will be, so ya better enjoy it while ya can! </div><div><br /></div><div>Baking is something I don't do a lot of. All that careful measuring when you can just throw a bunch of stuff together and call it dinner.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX87uGWLDI/AAAAAAAAAuM/TfxGdQAHiT4/s320/dryingredients.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487069823937948722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><div>I'm glad I still had this buttermilk, and that it was still good. It's original purpose being for buttermilk waffles that never did get made.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX874xaMEI/AAAAAAAAAuU/vE2LWzeOE-o/s320/wetingredients.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487069826802921538" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9UijkpEI/AAAAAAAAAuc/4QVK0Am8k0E/s320/addblueberries.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487070250336035906" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;">These blueberries are plump and delicious; at their peak around here in our neck of the woods.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9U4nJ5VI/AAAAAAAAAuk/OyGOxPSKYO0/s320/blueberriesinflower.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487070256256640338" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Look at them: all raised beautifully and pushing their yumminess out of the little cups.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9VCHH-_I/AAAAAAAAAus/02q-hjKzMuA/s320/coolingcupcakes.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487070258806651890" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div>My taste tester gave these the thumbs up, still warm out of the oven. I quickly gave him the look of death, clearly sending the message that these can't be touched again until they are complete!</div><div><br /></div><div>Just enough frosting for the chef to lick clean while plating the cupcakes for their own little photo shoot.</div><div><br /></div><div>Isn't it just lovely how the natural indigo color releases from the blueberries as they burst inside their cake cocoon inside the papers? It's magic, I tell you!!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/TCX9iARhT7I/AAAAAAAAAvE/e6v0gwF8uFc/s320/unwrappedcupcake.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487070481651683250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Lemon Blueberry </span></span><a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1571446"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Cupcakes</span></span></a></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipe/i/hex/clear.gif" width="1" height="3" border="0" alt="" /></div><br /><span class="item_body"><span class="i" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Lemon and blueberry flavors give these </span><a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipes/gallery/0,28548,1811303,00.html" style="color: rgb(136, 51, 51); text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">cupcakes</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> a great taste. Blueberries or fresh, edible flowers make an easy, pretty decoration.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /><img src="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipe/i/hex/clear.gif" width="1" height="15" border="0" alt="" /><br /></span><span class="form_font_one" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Yield:</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="form_font_one" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> 1 dozen (serving size: 1 cupcake)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><img src="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipe/i/hex/clear.gif" width="1" height="13" border="0" alt="" /><br /></span><span class="item_body" style=" line-height: 16px; "><span class="vrsmbk"><span class="allCaps" style="text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">CUPCAKES:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />1 1/2 cups (about 6 3/4 ounces) plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided<br />10 tablespoon granulated sugar<br />1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder<br />1/4 teaspoon salt<br />1/8 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/4 cup butter, melted<br />1 large egg<br />1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk<br />1/2 cup 2% reduced-fat milk<br />1 teaspoon grated lemon rind<br />3/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, thawed<br /><br /></span><span class="vrsmbk"><span class="allCaps" style="text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">FROSTING:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />1/4 cup (2 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened<br />2 tablespoons butter, softened<br />1 teaspoon grated lemon rind<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />1/8 teaspoon salt<br />1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted<br />2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice<br />Fresh blueberries (optional)<br /><br /></span></span><span class="item_body" style=" ;font-size:11px;"><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Preheat oven to 350°.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Place 12 decorative paper muffin cup liners into muffin cups.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">To prepare cupcakes, lightly spoon 1 1/2 cups flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Measure 1 tablespoon flour; level with a knife. Sift together 1 1/2 cups flour plus 1 tablespoon flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and baking soda in a large bowl. Combine melted butter and egg in another large bowl; stir with a whisk. Add buttermilk, milk, and 1 teaspoon rind to butter mixture; stir with a whisk. Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Toss blueberries with remaining 1 tablespoon flour. Fold blueberries into batter. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 5 minutes on a wire rack; remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">To prepare frosting, place cream cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon rind, vanilla, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed just until blended. Gradually add powdered sugar (do not overbeat). Stir in juice. Spread frosting evenly over cupcakes; garnish with blueberries, if desired. Store, covered, in refrigerator.</span></p></span><span class="item_body"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">CALORIES 236 (29% from fat); FAT 7.7g (sat 4.6g,mono 2g,poly 0.4g); IRON 1mg; CHOLESTEROL38mg; CALCIUM 71mg; CARBOHYDRATE 38.7g; SODIUM 230mg; PROTEIN 3.7g; FIBER 0.7g</span></span><span class="item_body" style=" ;font-size:11px;"> </span><br /><span class="vrxsgrlt2"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cooking Light</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, JANUARY 2007</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><span class="vrxsgrlt2" style=" ;font-size:9px !important;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><span class="vrxsgrlt2" style=" ;font-size:9px !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><span class="vrxsgrlt2" style=" ;font-size:9px !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></span></div></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-90502930613181531352009-12-08T20:15:00.005-05:002009-12-08T21:01:18.629-05:00Biscuits and Veggie Gravy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Sx8CNBYLJGI/AAAAAAAAAt8/ntmTUC1Ya9Q/s1600-h/biscuitsveggiegravyedit3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Sx8CNBYLJGI/AAAAAAAAAt8/ntmTUC1Ya9Q/s320/biscuitsveggiegravyedit3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413047699854009442" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Tonite I was craving something savory and comforting. Mmmmhhhh! Biscuits! The leftovers will make great breakfast sandwiches, or a yummy snack with butter or honey. The biscuits were derived from <a href="http://www.cookingbread.com/recipes/quick_bread/maple_cornmeal_biscuits.html">this recipe</a>. I wanted a less sweet variety, so I subbed out the maple syrup he originally called for. I hate having to roll doughs out and use cutters. Re-rolling the dough always toughens it and who really cares what shape they are? Mine were rectangles. :o)<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Cornmeal Biscuits with Veggie Gravy<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">First, prepare your ingredients for the gravy.</span><br /></span></span><ul><li style="font-weight: normal;">1 Tbsp butter</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 small onion, chopped. (I used about 1/4 of a large Vidalia)<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1 medium carrot, diced small</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">8 spears asparagus, chopped<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 cup chopped mushrooms (I used a combination of button and shiitake)</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">2 cloves garlic, chopped</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 tsp. rubbed sage</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1/4 tsp fresh ground pepper</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 tsp salt</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 tsp vegetable stock paste<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">1 1/2 Tbsp flour</li><li><span style="font-weight: normal;">1 1/2 cup milk</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></li></ul><span style="font-weight: normal;">Chop your vegetables and set aside on your cutting board. Then prepare the biscuits.</span><br />Biscuit Instructions: <ul style="font-weight: normal;"><li>2 1/4 cups all purpose flour</li><li>1/2 cup cup cornmeal</li><li>1 Tbsp baking powder</li><li>1/2 tsp baking soda</li><li>1/2 tsp salt</li><li>2 tsp sugar</li><li>2 Tbsp cold shortening</li><li>1/2 stick butter</li><li>1 cup milk, plus 1 Tbsp<br /></li></ul><ol style="font-weight: normal;"><li>In a large bowl, whisk together the first 6 ingredients. I used the pastry cutter to do this. Slice the butter into about 10-12 pieces.<br /></li><li>Using a pastry cutter, two butter knives, or your fingers, work the shortening into the dry mix until crumbly.<br /></li><li>Add the butter, and continue to mix in. This time, keep the butter in somewhat larger pieces.<br /></li><li>Add 1 cup milk. Using a wooden spoon, mix until it starts to come together. Dump out onto a floured surface.</li><li>Knead the dough gently until all the ingredients are incorporated nicely.</li><li>Roll the dough out to about 10 by 8 inches or so. Fold the right side towards the middle, then fold the left side over the middle. Turn the dough 1/4 turn and roll out again. Repeat 2 more times.<br /></li><li>Finally, roll the dough to about 1/2". Using your hands, shape the dough into a rectangle. Cut into 8 or 12 pieces. Brush remaining milk over biscuits.<br /></li><li>Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for about 16-20 minutes, depending on size.</li></ol><span style="font-weight: normal;">While the biscuits bake, make the gravy.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Gravy Directions:</span> <ol><li style="font-weight: normal;">Over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5-10 minutes, depending on how tender you prefer.</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Add chopped carrots. Cook for another 5-10 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Stir in asparagus, cook 2 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Stir in the vegetable broth base and spices. Add flour and mix it into the vegetables. Cook 1 minutes more. Add the milk, stirring vigorously to incorporate.<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Allow the mixture to cook and thicken about 4-5 minutes, adding more milk if you prefer a less thick sauce.</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Season with salt and pepper.</li><li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Serve over sliced biscuits and enjoy!</span><br /></li></ol><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Sx7_edH5XTI/AAAAAAAAAts/PlOUJ4atwj0/s1600-h/biscuitsveggiegravy2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Sx7_edH5XTI/AAAAAAAAAts/PlOUJ4atwj0/s320/biscuitsveggiegravy2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413044700824821042" border="0" /></a></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-23694405222266412742009-11-24T18:07:00.008-05:002009-11-24T18:34:01.818-05:00Etsy GoodiesNot a day goes by that I don't go and browse <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a>. Also known as the land of handmade goodness! I'm a firm believer in that what goes around comes around. I like to support other artists. I love the feeling of getting something made with love and respect to our bodies, earth and wallet. You get what you pay for!!!<br /><br />Recently I got some of this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=21498604">soap</a> from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/crystalwood">Crystalwood</a> on Etsy. If you want a decadent treat for your skin, add this to your shower routine. Finally a body wash that truely is moisturizing!!!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxoE1oFFWI/AAAAAAAAAtA/FCeS48ypuII/s1600/lavendersheasoap"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxoE1oFFWI/AAAAAAAAAtA/FCeS48ypuII/s320/lavendersheasoap" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407811684889072994" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The scents are truely delicious! This lavender one is made with pure essential oils. She also uses high quality fragrance oils that are almost edible with their sweet aromas. While you are shopping for others, be sure to throw a few of these into your shopping cart when you're on Etsy!<br /><br />For those that know me a little more personally, you've probably already learned that I removed my dreadlocks a few weeks back. Just ready for a change, I guess. That lead me to a new experience, one that I haven't indulged in for years--15 years, to be exact! Hair bling! Now that my hair is free-flowing and finer in quantity than before, I needed some things to help hold my bangs back. These beautiful jewels from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thepinkcamellia">ThePinkCamilla</a> were just what I was looking for.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxpL4ic6kI/AAAAAAAAAtI/FwtzFuWg9Gw/s1600/dragonflyhairpin"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxpL4ic6kI/AAAAAAAAAtI/FwtzFuWg9Gw/s320/dragonflyhairpin" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407812905441487426" border="0" /></a>I have no idea how she makes these, but I've never seen hairpins so gorgeous. Her delicate touch makes your hair sparkle and kissed with love.<br /><br />My friend Lily has become an inspiration to me and many other crafty mamas out there. I'm so glad she is able to share her art with us in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AuraGaia">shop</a>. Her ability to use recycled materials in her work is something immaculate. The final product would have you NEVER guessing it was made from repurposed clothing. She scavenges Thrift stores for usable materials to go into incredible pieces of work. Her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AuraGaia?section_id=6406844">spats</a> are one of her new creations. You can throw a bag of scraps at Lily and she will love your forever. All those little bits that drive us nuts, gathering in piles in our sewing room?? Lily transforms them into miracles.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxqvKCizfI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/5XzfX5O2ecg/s1600/auragaiaspats"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxqvKCizfI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/5XzfX5O2ecg/s320/auragaiaspats" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407814610946543090" border="0" /></a>These legwarmers are great! It's such a good way to add warmth to those beautiful dresses and skirts that often go hiding during winter. I love to wear an extra layer to my legs and feet during the cooler months when chillin around the house.<br /><br />Speaking of cooler months, this pair of slipper boots are such a treat for my tootsies! Australian seller <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/craftidame">Craftidame</a> created these fun and cheery slipper boots completely by hand. I love how she uses lots of color and texture in her work. These have become one of my favorites! They'll keep you warm and make ya look cute, too!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxroLNgUKI/AAAAAAAAAtY/VHC3UD8-Kj0/s1600/slipperboots"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxroLNgUKI/AAAAAAAAAtY/VHC3UD8-Kj0/s320/slipperboots" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407815590513496226" border="0" /></a><br />There are a couple more pairs in her shop, so go ahead and grab them before they sell out. You will be SOOOOO glad you did!<br /><br />Finally, some fine jewelry to talk about. Irish seller <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/madeforanangel">Made For An Angel</a> struck me when I came across her listings in a recent Etsy browse. I love the rustic feel to her pieces. A jeweler that is literally beating her metals into art. This Amber ring called for me. The flowers just add to the hand-crafted appeal that drew me in.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxtDz1KnlI/AAAAAAAAAtg/MIr7HDlNr7o/s1600/amberring"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SwxtDz1KnlI/AAAAAAAAAtg/MIr7HDlNr7o/s320/amberring" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407817164785360466" border="0" /></a>She will make her jewelry in your choice of stone. It won't be long before the treasure is in your hands, packed and shipped with love, promptly and safely.<br /><br />I love Etsy!<br /></div><br /></div></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-89399939832004530062009-10-30T08:02:00.003-04:002009-10-30T08:15:47.629-04:00Butternut Squash Mac n CheeseI've been diggin' on some roasted squash lately! Last Saturday we made roasted butternut squash soup, and cheese quesadillas to go along with it. Sunday I wanted more squash! This turned out so good! Both hubby and I went back for seconds!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SurYsV34n4I/AAAAAAAAAs4/1U2syXBVMwg/s1600-h/butternutsquashmacncheese.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SurYsV34n4I/AAAAAAAAAs4/1U2syXBVMwg/s320/butternutsquashmacncheese.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398365359654346626" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Butternut Squash Mac N Cheese<br /></span><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>4 oz whole wheat pasta (I used penne)</li><li>2 Tbsp butter</li><li>2 cloves garlic, minced<br /></li><li>2 Tbsp flour<br /></li><li>1 can evaporated milk</li><li>1 cup vegetable stock<br /></li><li>1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (I used a combination of colby, cheddar and parmesan)</li><li>2 cups diced roasted butternut or acorn squash. (I used a combination of both)*</li><li>salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste</li><li>breadcrumbs<br /></li></ul><br /><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the flour. Stir until combined with the butter, then allow to cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the can of milk and vegetable stock. Whisk and stir until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.</li><li>Add all but 1/4 cup of the cheese and all of the squash. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg.</li><li>Pour into a greased dish. Mix a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs with the remaining cheese and add to the top of the pasta.</li><li>Broil for 3-4 minutes, or until top is golden.</li></ol><br /><div style="text-align: left;">*For roasting the squash, you can do it two ways. I peeled the squash with a vegetable peeler (Not easy to do with the acorn!), cut it into cubes, then tossed it with olive oil, salt & pepper. Roast at 350 degrees, stirring occasionally, until tender--about 20-25 minutes. You can also just cut the squash in half, rub with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then roast, cut side-down, for about 30 minutes or more. Just slip a knife or fork thru the flesh occasionally to see if it's tender enough. Then scoop the squash out with a spoon and cut up.<br /></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-39760292859680165362009-10-01T13:16:00.007-04:002009-10-01T13:43:11.548-04:00I'm baaaack!I feel so ashamed that it has been nearly 2 months since my last post! I'd been busy with festivals and am actually relieved that the vending season is over for me. No Apple Butter festival for me this year. Just getting kind of sick of the white-trash-vibe and inconsideration for handmade items in my hometown festival. It's kind of sad, how many people around here just don't "get it" when it comes to one of a kind handmade items. Dollar General opened a new store here in town, and I think the community is stoked.<br /><br />I finished up the vending season close to home, at the Watermelon Park Festival. The fest was small and laid back. The music was awesome and the crowd had a calm, friendly vibe. I ended up packing up and leaving on Saturday afternoon, with reports of a rain storm on the horizon, that wouldn't end for the rest of the day. Maybe I copped out, but the thought of sitting in a booth in the cold rain didn't sound fun to me, so back home I went. Many of my friends stayed for the rest of the day and enjoyed more bluegrass music.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTlK6ZxLxI/AAAAAAAAAsA/pJ6yNEyfUeo/s1600-h/cordflowerskirtwatermelonpark.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTlK6ZxLxI/AAAAAAAAAsA/pJ6yNEyfUeo/s320/cordflowerskirtwatermelonpark.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387683029880745746" border="0" /></a><br />This gal really loved my corduroy and cotton skirt and came back to pick it up just before I left on Saturday.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTlLJWeH3I/AAAAAAAAAsI/ZAsLKZS3cZI/s1600-h/sunhempdresswatermelonpark.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTlLJWeH3I/AAAAAAAAAsI/ZAsLKZS3cZI/s320/sunhempdresswatermelonpark.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387683033893445490" border="0" /></a>This happy lady loooved the Sun batik HEMP sundress and put it right on. Moments later, she put on some of my batik panties. I never thought I'd see not one but TWO ladies putting on my hand-dyed panties right inside the booth. Let's just say I wasn't quite ready for crotch-shots, but happy to have the sales!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My memory was somewhere else when I packed up for the festival. I hadn't realized until I was at the venue that I had forgotten to pack the top to one of my canopy tents. Duh!! We jimmy-rigged a top out of side-walls and grip-clamps. It worked for the dry day, but when it rained overnight on Thursday, we woke to a drippy ceiling the next morning. Our friend Tom saved the day when he pulled out an extra tent top and it happened to fit my frame perfectly! <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> Note to self: add "tent tops" to my master vending list for next year!!!</span></span><br /><br />I've been getting caught up with custom orders and starting on new ones here in the Potomac River Goods studio. I finished up pair of patchwork shorts yesterday, for a trade to <a href="http://crystalcreations.weebly.com/">Burt</a>, who I met at Floyd Fest, and saw again at Philadelphia Folk Festival.<br />Here's the shorts I made for Burt, but they ended up being a bit too small for him. After a few adjustments, his new shorts are ready to be shipped out. <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(new ones not photographed)</span></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTm_yWZwZI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/zOfLmR_7U6k/s1600-h/bertcustomshorts.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTm_yWZwZI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/zOfLmR_7U6k/s320/bertcustomshorts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387685037763838354" border="0" /></a>I don't normally do copywritten images for my appliques, but I made an exception for Burt, who was really eager for me to do so. The patches are a collection of hemp/organic cotton and recycled poly from previous works, all hand-dyed by me. There is even some potato dextrin-dyed pieces in grey. The pockets were a bit of a challenge, but seemed a lot easier the second time around. I just might be doing more of these, because I really like how they feel when you slip your hands inside.<br /><br />Here's the latest work in progress:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTnkGRcMzI/AAAAAAAAAsY/sI0Ac1rSrZY/s1600-h/dyesoctober12009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTnkGRcMzI/AAAAAAAAAsY/sI0Ac1rSrZY/s320/dyesoctober12009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387685661587026738" border="0" /></a>I dye all of my pieces in small batches using all kinds of plastic containers. Today was one of those days that I shuffled items into other containers just so I could use them for dyeing. I've got several tree batiks started in the green bath. When they are done curing, I will let them air-dry and then wax over the piece again. The green will become leaves on the trees. Then they will be dyed a darker color (not sure what shade yet) to reveal a tree with leaves. Other items in the dye are fabric, and other batik pieces. The rust brown piece in the square container is the beginning of a cat shirt for my niece. I made my sister one for her birthday several years ago, and she wants one, too! The colors will be different, but the spotted kitty is nearly the same as her mama's.<br /><br />Here are some pics of a wedding dress I did earlier this Summer. Kate's wedding wasn't until September, so I held off showing off the pics as to make the dress a surprise to her guests.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTpZWNF2xI/AAAAAAAAAsg/k2G1jbmRGww/s1600-h/kateweddingdressset.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTpZWNF2xI/AAAAAAAAAsg/k2G1jbmRGww/s320/kateweddingdressset.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387687675908446994" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTpZsggYAI/AAAAAAAAAso/o5NwBygRMos/s1600-h/kateweddingdressset3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTpZsggYAI/AAAAAAAAAso/o5NwBygRMos/s320/kateweddingdressset3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387687681895456770" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTpaF126KI/AAAAAAAAAsw/ZwqJp4Mg3Nw/s1600-h/kateweddingdressset5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SsTpaF126KI/AAAAAAAAAsw/ZwqJp4Mg3Nw/s320/kateweddingdressset5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387687688695900322" border="0" /></a>Kate's wedding dress was inspired by my original Goddess Dress design, with a few modifications. It was constructed of natural hemp/organic cotton muslin, and trimmed with the same fabric dyed royal blue, earthy green and chocolate brown. I was really happy how it turned out!<br /><br />It's been getting pretty chilly out here in the woods, and Autumn has officially started. I'll be working on more warm clothing and accessories over the next few months. Stay tuned!<br /><br /></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-30220390727252718042009-08-04T11:59:00.003-04:002009-08-04T12:08:49.059-04:00Whole Wheat Bruscetta TortelliniRun on out to the garden and git some! This simple meal is quick to prepare on a Summer's night, and uses herbs and tomatoes from your own garden.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Snhcrg1r4jI/AAAAAAAAArw/JhFvX60Nq9M/s1600-h/bruscettatortellini.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Snhcrg1r4jI/AAAAAAAAArw/JhFvX60Nq9M/s320/bruscettatortellini.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366140858631184946" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Whole Wheat Bruscetta Tortellini</span><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 package whole wheat prepared cheese tortellini (or any flavor you'd like)</li><li>2 Tbsp each chopped basil and parsley</li><li>2 cloves garlic, crushed</li><li>1 - 1 1/2 cups fresh chopped tomatoes</li><li>1/3 cup fresh mozzarella bocconcini (tiny ball size)</li><li>1/3 cup chopped Kalamata olives<br /></li><li>2 Tbsp olive oil</li><li>1/2 tsp salt</li><li>1/4 tsp fresh ground pepper</li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Parmigiano-Reggiano, to taste</span></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li>Cook tortellini according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water.</li><li>Meanwhile, chop all ingredients and put in a bowl.</li><li>When the pasta is done, mix thoroughly with the tomato mixture.</li><li>Top with freshly grated <span style="font-size:100%;">Parmigiano-Reggiano</span> cheese and a sprig of fresh basil</li></ol><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Snhcr_Y65pI/AAAAAAAAAr4/tutHLBYLSh4/s1600-h/bruscettatortellini2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/Snhcr_Y65pI/AAAAAAAAAr4/tutHLBYLSh4/s320/bruscettatortellini2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366140866832033426" border="0" /></a></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696416974816623454.post-80286165700172453862009-08-03T09:36:00.004-04:002009-08-03T09:52:28.604-04:00Zucchini and Black Bean BurritosIf you're growing zucchini in your garden, you're probably up to your ears in them and are looking forward to a new way to chow down on these suckers.<br /><br />These delicious burritos re-heat nicely and can be stowed in the freezer for later in the year.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SnbrSYTQ4DI/AAAAAAAAArg/YM9n1_gHioE/s1600-h/zucchiniburrito.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SnbrSYTQ4DI/AAAAAAAAArg/YM9n1_gHioE/s320/zucchiniburrito.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365734707051946034" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;">Zucchini and Black Bean Burritos<br /><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;">(makes 4)</span><br /><ul style="text-align: left; font-weight: normal;"><li>2 Tbsp olive oil</li><li>1 cup chopped onion</li><li>1 cup carrots, sliced</li><li>4 cloves garlic, chopped</li><li>1 1/2 cups zucchini, chopped</li><li>1 chili, chopped fine (use whatever you'd like, I used a mild Poblano)<br /></li><li>2 tsp cumin</li><li>1 tsp chili powder</li><li>1/2 tsp pepper</li><li>1 tsp salt</li><li>1 can black beans, drained</li><li>1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped</li><li>4 flour burrito-size tortillas</li><li>2 ounces each pepperjack and cheddar cheeses, grated</li><li>oil for drizzling, or oil spray<br /></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Directions:</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><ol><li style="font-weight: normal;">Heat oil over medium high heat and add the onions. After about 4-5 minutes, when they soften, add the carrots. Continue cooking until carrots get tender to your liking (5-8 minutes).</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Add garlic, zucchini and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes, until zucchini starts to get tender. Stir in spices.</li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Pour in the black beans and add the spinach, and continue to cook for another few minutes. Remove from heat.<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Pre-heat the oven to 325 degrees.<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Heat the tortillas briefly on the skillet or in the microwave to soften.<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Divide the filling in the pan into 4 portions, by slicing thru the center, then slicing the other way, like a pizza.<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Lay the tortilla on a clean surface and add the burrito filling. Add 1/4 of the cheese, then roll up.<br /></li><li style="font-weight: normal;">Spray or rub with oil, and bake for 10 minutes. Turn the burritos and continue to cook another 7-10 minutes, until the burrito gets browned to your liking.</li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Top with your favorite toppings and serve. I used guacamole, sour cream and salsa.</span><br /></li></ol><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SnbrSvqWmoI/AAAAAAAAAro/i6paqfFuKvs/s1600-h/zucchiniburritofilling.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a8oOeeLzPAU/SnbrSvqWmoI/AAAAAAAAAro/i6paqfFuKvs/s320/zucchiniburritofilling.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365734713322805890" border="0" /></a></div></div>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246083728451121014noreply@blogger.com2