tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38058289897765283132024-03-18T20:27:24.449-07:00Jabez FarmJourney of a homemaking, homesteading, homeschooling,"want-to-do-it-all" country girlKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.comBlogger642125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-91834136829016947432013-05-09T14:44:00.001-07:002013-05-09T14:44:33.387-07:00Guacamole, Mexican StyleWhile in Mexico, I had a few things I wanted to do. One was to see the Mayan ruins. Check. Another was to watch my Mister snorkel. Check. Yet another was to learn to tread water (because I sink like a stone) in the salty Caribbean Sea. Check. I also wanted to take Salsa dancing lessons. But after some careful consideration, <em>and a reality check from my Mister</em>, I gave up that dream. You see, I can't dance. Not because I'm white, but because the sounds in my head are far louder than the beats coming from the boombox. <br />
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Kind of like Elaine from the television show, Seinfeld.<br />
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<em>Now, that girl can move.</em> <br />
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Okay, maybe I'm not <em>that</em> bad, but learning to Salsa was not going to happen on this trip. So I appealed to my Mister's primal instincts. Food. Specifically guacamole. <br />
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The resort that we stayed at offered a guacamole class (incidentally, right after the Salsa dancing class!), taught by their head chef. Never mind that we were swimming in the pool when the class was announced. And <em>really</em> never mind the pictures of me with swimmer's hair and orange skin, while wearing a wet t-shirt. <br />
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<strong>I beg you.</strong><br />
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In order to recreate this at home, I opted to leave the swimsuit<strong> and</strong> the sunburn out. <br />
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You're welcome. ☺<br />
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<strong></strong><br />
<strong>~Guacamole~</strong><br />
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<em>1 ripe avocado</em></div>
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<em>1-2 Tb. finely chopped tomato</em></div>
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<em>1 Tb. minced onion (or less, depending on your preference)</em></div>
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<em>1/2-1 Tb. minced jalapeno, seeds and membrane removed (again, use what you prefer)</em></div>
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<em>1/2 Tb. fresh cilantro, chopped fine </em></div>
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<em>1/2-1 Tb. fresh lime juice</em></div>
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<em>pinch of sea salt</em></div>
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First, remove the large pit in the center of the avocado. In order to do this, take a knife and slice around the entire avocado, top to bottom.</div>
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Gently twist to separate the 2 pieces.</div>
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Take your knife and very carefully, hit the blade into the pit. Just as carefully, twist the knife to remove the pit.</div>
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Pretty cool, huh? The Mexican people have it going on. </div>
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Using a spoon, scoop out the avocado from the skin and place in a bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork until it's smooth and creamy.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't be alarmed...that jar of yellow liquid is my first attempt at making ghee. Honest.</td></tr>
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Add the remaining ingredients and stir well. </div>
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Serve with your favorite non-GMO tortilla chips. </div>
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Fresh guacamole does NOT keep well, so it's best to make this right before you need it. </div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-91710508661620879052013-05-05T17:03:00.000-07:002013-05-05T17:03:00.027-07:00Where I've Been, and What We'll Be EatingHola`! After a month-long blog "sabbatical," I'm officially back. Not that I had a choice of coming back, after all, my family knew where I was and would've used whatever means necessary to haul my tail back home.<br />
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So, where was I? Well, part of the time, I was busy packing for a trip abroad. The other part? I was <em>mentally preparing</em> for a <em>child-less</em> trip to Cancun, Mexico. After taking numerous road trips over the years with 9 or 10 children in tow, it takes a completely different mind-set to ready oneself for an adults-only resort vacation. Oh, but what a quick learner I was!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOmRKBQfseekkJx3C6PakITo1ODPuJSXE4mp7Gp4aaE5R3yt9Hzicbgjca6_iScGr6DFvuAJp_E9zpSBtArxHD3FZtaFBUlOpfUjGrdH6IMCtrqmWtzbywGDttj1rED_RjpAEyfXCmkh6/s1600/DSC00296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOmRKBQfseekkJx3C6PakITo1ODPuJSXE4mp7Gp4aaE5R3yt9Hzicbgjca6_iScGr6DFvuAJp_E9zpSBtArxHD3FZtaFBUlOpfUjGrdH6IMCtrqmWtzbywGDttj1rED_RjpAEyfXCmkh6/s320/DSC00296.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the Caribbean Sea from our 10th floor hotel window</td></tr>
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Being a creature of habit, I'm not one to venture too far from home. I have a healthy fear of flying, don't like large crowds, and am a somewhat (☺) of a control freak. My only expectations were to take a nap on the beach and have someone else cook meals for me that didn't make me sick. I thought with my expectations low, I couldn't be disappointed. But I ended up conquering fears and living out dreams <em>I never even knew I had</em>. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the island of Isla Mujeres</td></tr>
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I embraced my inner Audrey Hepburn and glammed it up on a white sandy beach.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOzBLIgCf75y_Lf1mc6uMl1VO5703rO5M5aNcMI7axhvWj9u51KmOK7rU4MKHObjmfWclyGDxaI3NMoU_b_L8wI1YlYHwOCgP-__0bA4e9dpVeaa4OGgrXek16RHkzLNxwpRuhjzoP0w_/s1600/DSC00315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOzBLIgCf75y_Lf1mc6uMl1VO5703rO5M5aNcMI7axhvWj9u51KmOK7rU4MKHObjmfWclyGDxaI3NMoU_b_L8wI1YlYHwOCgP-__0bA4e9dpVeaa4OGgrXek16RHkzLNxwpRuhjzoP0w_/s320/DSC00315.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shortly before we headed in to a 3-1/2 hour couples massage/pampering. Glory be. That was my idea of a vacation.</td></tr>
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The Mister and I rediscovered what it was like to be responsibility-free, if only for a few days. <br />
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I embraced the sunshine...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_2Rxr2s4HzojtkyNxXOKiEJvmDftsKzkdChDr88XYs6WqZTb-Pw2JG3Fpep3_nT2L8QrsggBVBHeIrPucpqpQGy5wPdq1Oiz3oQ7yjw6bLg4kskYjKETQtiR5NvFPci3-MF8EHJgtGTP/s1600/DSC00357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_2Rxr2s4HzojtkyNxXOKiEJvmDftsKzkdChDr88XYs6WqZTb-Pw2JG3Fpep3_nT2L8QrsggBVBHeIrPucpqpQGy5wPdq1Oiz3oQ7yjw6bLg4kskYjKETQtiR5NvFPci3-MF8EHJgtGTP/s320/DSC00357.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Within 2 minutes, my little chameleon friend turned as orange as I was. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
...even though it didn't embrace me back. <br />
<br />
I became one with nature.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnA1zv-7OyP4rtBSavFqAZ0QCK2VxQCB_2_8Lo5tGJUiMsEQG0jhqjszORwiINhKCACe4XVMpVzClCoOU40aeLHKhteuN6JRkTOpG1ZJ2RJtzYhe9DGMp_b6FU0QyOs5Ir47F4psTpO0Rs/s1600/DSC00457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnA1zv-7OyP4rtBSavFqAZ0QCK2VxQCB_2_8Lo5tGJUiMsEQG0jhqjszORwiINhKCACe4XVMpVzClCoOU40aeLHKhteuN6JRkTOpG1ZJ2RJtzYhe9DGMp_b6FU0QyOs5Ir47F4psTpO0Rs/s320/DSC00457.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the jungle, where it was <em>habanero</em> <strong>HOT</strong>! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39SZbxcoatljqLLTqjSOyCjnMw6aMzY0xyeEh5Vhi-YrJKpChf-lvOZsL1SzxrvWaxe2b6Yu1udeWV_TpNSgvaSVmy4MErXrPuDQMIyhkVQmtAsk8okTbjaBWcqGagXJTbuOq4fgDEC5S/s1600/DSC00465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39SZbxcoatljqLLTqjSOyCjnMw6aMzY0xyeEh5Vhi-YrJKpChf-lvOZsL1SzxrvWaxe2b6Yu1udeWV_TpNSgvaSVmy4MErXrPuDQMIyhkVQmtAsk8okTbjaBWcqGagXJTbuOq4fgDEC5S/s320/DSC00465.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iguana's everywhere! I called this one, Gus. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And the Mister & I held a shark. Okay, it was <em>toothless</em> <strong>and</strong> a <em>vegetarian</em>, but it was a shark and we're darn lucky to be alive. *wink*<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfK_cFRlJ3SN4GcVx9VI3hYAmPClICW4WwGP8FCPlcUTuHvqS64wv3VnL1foC8pscbTu_82ueT3t82odEscxMd0eYspgf0wQdQngkv8hZkCNtv1ZzNfVqpE74fXmwY8VdNLuS9rUcywcP/s1600/DSC00335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfK_cFRlJ3SN4GcVx9VI3hYAmPClICW4WwGP8FCPlcUTuHvqS64wv3VnL1foC8pscbTu_82ueT3t82odEscxMd0eYspgf0wQdQngkv8hZkCNtv1ZzNfVqpE74fXmwY8VdNLuS9rUcywcP/s320/DSC00335.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little did we know, there was a second shark in the pen with us.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was able to share in the joy of seeing my Mister fulfill his life-long dream of captaining a catamaran in the Caribbean, and I even witnessed Jesus <em>taking the wheel</em>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_NuIgpugDPWwTxc1yP5erIbsqqnAFQkFx5oKteZW-LI9XddUH7DIj9NNk_QQfTbg_S7BIFrE36ERU1yJi3C-xCxa7StBMOqjcm9VIkmIYxpitT0OCh28j9ZOnk-CvoECtUSNZHiST2Mls/s1600/DSC00362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_NuIgpugDPWwTxc1yP5erIbsqqnAFQkFx5oKteZW-LI9XddUH7DIj9NNk_QQfTbg_S7BIFrE36ERU1yJi3C-xCxa7StBMOqjcm9VIkmIYxpitT0OCh28j9ZOnk-CvoECtUSNZHiST2Mls/s320/DSC00362.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Captain Jesus and my Mister sailing the catamaran and all 45 passengers back to the Port of Tortuga (It really exists!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And finally, I was able to see a piece of history that I have dreamed about since I was 10 years old. The Mayan ruins...even though most of it was seen through sweat and tears of joy. (Have I mentioned that it was hot?)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRW30OkIKyhvIXVIx89tNAJZabgixOI6lHm7w-ckXsOAlrpGF2vfgceBmnsEOSqxbgcdTE7ayC1OB6dZWSa-cBA_2dRpSPO7gwHJLdFQN8mX-F178jc8UrkTZhrDyNwjvZlXGiAdkE9E2V/s1600/DSC00422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRW30OkIKyhvIXVIx89tNAJZabgixOI6lHm7w-ckXsOAlrpGF2vfgceBmnsEOSqxbgcdTE7ayC1OB6dZWSa-cBA_2dRpSPO7gwHJLdFQN8mX-F178jc8UrkTZhrDyNwjvZlXGiAdkE9E2V/s320/DSC00422.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brother, sis-in-law, me, and the Mister at the Pyramid of Kukulcan ~ Chichen Itza Ruins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGU3-svg83r9W3riyOVSDPJaGvnahVkpDGLFN3kNT4Ze4CvdZIt78_JOUWfozi7Y1kyrHHbyLsU85pJr3uoYSuJujV1KuijEUvphAh3lPsAq-hfrYUzAC9dFOh8E5baN7NlQ_JZFoCUIAo/s1600/DSC00455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGU3-svg83r9W3riyOVSDPJaGvnahVkpDGLFN3kNT4Ze4CvdZIt78_JOUWfozi7Y1kyrHHbyLsU85pJr3uoYSuJujV1KuijEUvphAh3lPsAq-hfrYUzAC9dFOh8E5baN7NlQ_JZFoCUIAo/s320/DSC00455.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Las Monjas or the Building of the Nuns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcL7f-YWD6tnbN__lKBlQ8AnyEGThIjgTD15eLqhu_S-KalarCJCg80-SCbL0dFzGGTQBKFnyPlJY1-TfqAZiHdOr_iVnLt3w881Hev8Efq8fGkUm5JGbIqb_ooUqMZakegiJDLQCHBqtb/s1600/DSC00438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcL7f-YWD6tnbN__lKBlQ8AnyEGThIjgTD15eLqhu_S-KalarCJCg80-SCbL0dFzGGTQBKFnyPlJY1-TfqAZiHdOr_iVnLt3w881Hev8Efq8fGkUm5JGbIqb_ooUqMZakegiJDLQCHBqtb/s320/DSC00438.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Temple of the Jaguars</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdyKE3MUlhbHebDqWkHVEvQVrwAv0hS5TJWmcRByPDswNboX6T3iW5QpPbysxtgf6gHX9fmwrlFBMjKgLQP7k7WhB2Hx6bVpdg1fnr8K0jTDTUQ8YeQyiLO88-tiTea7JN-3Q88ES0CvL/s1600/DSC00441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdyKE3MUlhbHebDqWkHVEvQVrwAv0hS5TJWmcRByPDswNboX6T3iW5QpPbysxtgf6gHX9fmwrlFBMjKgLQP7k7WhB2Hx6bVpdg1fnr8K0jTDTUQ8YeQyiLO88-tiTea7JN-3Q88ES0CvL/s320/DSC00441.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Astronomical Observatory, which was still hidden among the jungle vines less than 20 years ago.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now that we've gotten the hang of how to relax and be tourists, we'll be doing this again next year...with a little extra sunblock and a whole lot of expectations. ☺<br />
<br />
Because I couldn't bring the fabulous chef's from Cancun home with me, it's time to get back to real-life meal planning. Here's what's cookin' this week...<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong>~Sunday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
cereal</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/11/menu-plan-for-119-111509.html">Cinco de Mayo Casserole</a>, guacamole (recipe coming this week!), tortilla chips</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>~Monday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
Raw Greek Yogurt (recipe coming), fruit of choice, toasted almonds</div>
<div align="center">
leftover Cinco de Mayo casserole, green salad with <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/05/kefir-ranch-dressing.html">Kefir Ranch Dressing</a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>~Tuesday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/05/speltcakes.html">Speltcakes</a> with peach puree "syrup"</div>
<div align="center">
Butternut Squash Enchiladas (new)</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>~Wednesday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal, banana</div>
<div align="center">
Meatloaf, roasted Rosemary Red Potatoes, green salad with balsamic vinegar/olive oil dressing</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>~Thursday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spice Granola</a> with raw milk</div>
<div align="center">
Parmesan-crusted tilapia (new), <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/05/spring-risotto.html">Risotto</a>, steamed broccoli</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>~Friday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
Design-an-Omelet </div>
<div align="center">
Barbequed chicken, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/08/roasted-no-mayo-potato-salad.html">Roasted No-Mayo Potato Salad</a>, fresh fruit</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>~Saturday~</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/01/banana-nut-muffinsa-true-american-love.html">Banana Walnut Muffins</a>, bacon</div>
<div align="center">
Homemade Barbeque Chicken Pizza (gluten-free)</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-38404560471510701392013-03-12T13:26:00.000-07:002013-03-12T13:26:17.329-07:00Homemade Whey Ricotta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJDFcBnaK_C1VJGrhQZwYr8oSCV8ftkFbSAWJA8oXDSPb3LI4nGn3qzqtj-IRHBQMUngdlg2jn0Wax6nPmRrJR3zCHajnAyfihZwoxE_FkLWXtl2nPvzm47Cg7fWde6LD-mfvTkSpol94/s1600/DSC00163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJDFcBnaK_C1VJGrhQZwYr8oSCV8ftkFbSAWJA8oXDSPb3LI4nGn3qzqtj-IRHBQMUngdlg2jn0Wax6nPmRrJR3zCHajnAyfihZwoxE_FkLWXtl2nPvzm47Cg7fWde6LD-mfvTkSpol94/s320/DSC00163.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm a fairly simple gal. I don't wear makeup at home, only shave my legs when we're expecting more than 3 days of sunshine, and consider lavender goat's milk soap to be the equivalent of a large bottle of Dior perfume. <br />
<br />
Honestly, anything with the word "fume" in it is lost on me.<br />
<br />
I also enjoy finding multiple ways to use something up before tossing it into the recyclable bin, Goodwill box, compost pile, or pig trough. <br />
<br />
With all of the cheesemaking I've been doing lately, I'm finding that the whey tends to add up. Especially if I make a 2 lb. batch of cheese on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
Ya. We like cheese.<br />
<br />
After doing a quick Google search on ricotta, I found a recipe using just the whey. Whey is the liquid that is left after <strong>all</strong> <strong>the milk solids</strong> are used to form the curds. At least, I <em>thought</em> they were all used up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUN2n-LtW57tIxLCjdLf23en-ib440vtN7B2Pnj42uC6oCuuj_skz2NvO3iEr4rDkqk1rpCZbKH7EvaR7lXuz8w7u4ppFdFo5GxvEcWG_pcUHBOzpW65YkoIaC2NxC8uyLXe4-OL4NLGdb/s1600/DSC00147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUN2n-LtW57tIxLCjdLf23en-ib440vtN7B2Pnj42uC6oCuuj_skz2NvO3iEr4rDkqk1rpCZbKH7EvaR7lXuz8w7u4ppFdFo5GxvEcWG_pcUHBOzpW65YkoIaC2NxC8uyLXe4-OL4NLGdb/s320/DSC00147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking into the pot, I couldn't see how anything else could be extracted from the liquid. Sure, there were little white particles floating on top, but they were few and far between, and according to the recipe, for every 2 gallons of whey used, I should expect 2-3 cups of ricotta. <br />
<br />
Well, if you know me at all, I like a good challenge. Even if my ricotta adventure ended up being an epic fail, I would have the satisfaction of knowing that <strong>I doubted</strong> this little endeavor to begin with. And for a simple gal like me, that can be <em>good enough</em>. <br />
<br />
Occasionally though, I like to be proven wrong. ☺<br />
<br />
Here's what you'll need:<br />
<br />
2 gallons leftover whey from <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/10/making-mozzarella.html">making mozzarella</a> <br />
a large pot that has several inches of space at the top once the whey is added<br />
long-handled slotted spoon (I use a skimmer.)<br />
2 thin 100% (non-terry) cotton towels, or several layers of cheesecloth <br />
colander<br />
thermometer <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuv73nEuaxs4fC_Jyio_9fbUk7-Vac7gKv_85OLYeXtBtz9fFK_Jfd27f_iEHKsP3OH5i94ppI4TOWsDQ7lPua7vbfa4c_0JgMzafh0d8EJkkVDDnTkCbWbsW8fFLI5dFlOM3Lw0FnWHa_/s1600/DSC00177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuv73nEuaxs4fC_Jyio_9fbUk7-Vac7gKv_85OLYeXtBtz9fFK_Jfd27f_iEHKsP3OH5i94ppI4TOWsDQ7lPua7vbfa4c_0JgMzafh0d8EJkkVDDnTkCbWbsW8fFLI5dFlOM3Lw0FnWHa_/s320/DSC00177.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Set a colander in a large pot and line the colander with 1 towel. Strain your fresh whey through the towel to remove any bits and pieces that may be in the liquid. Remove colander/towel and place a lid on the pot. Set the pot on the back of the stove and leave it for 12-24 hours to culture.<br />
<br />
The next day, remove the lid and place the pot on medium heat. Bring the temperature up to 208 degrees, stirring occasionally to keep the solids from sticking to the bottom of the pot. (Trust me, those solids are in there, even if you can't see them!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKtF83sj-4WpzkUK2DZIvO4_gU1PR69dcJ9AhWd7onCWUUBSiRCWavSZurUlp5QqaeiPBB3MWZ7oIkL2vccd6Gwjrg1q4V8JMjWckvkuinZHaX_sPICB-rPnbDW4d67PVbAwyVbEJZY1Z-/s1600/DSC00151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKtF83sj-4WpzkUK2DZIvO4_gU1PR69dcJ9AhWd7onCWUUBSiRCWavSZurUlp5QqaeiPBB3MWZ7oIkL2vccd6Gwjrg1q4V8JMjWckvkuinZHaX_sPICB-rPnbDW4d67PVbAwyVbEJZY1Z-/s320/DSC00151.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Be careful when taking the temperature, the steam is very hot! See how the yellow-ish liquid has turned white and foamy? This is what you want.<br />
<br />
Give the whey another good stir, remove from heat and replace the lid. And wait. For me, this is the toughest part. <br />
<br />
I'm simple, not patient.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYCWw97QeX-hX73AltnX8KqXEb55wY-GYEWMV9-WW4Ks2gw-_FfD6jiUY7XtBlbFzcz3hykpJWpwtwKtcDticZ_7OUD9gbJpTPDZOODiLuoZxglvdC-CXnCNddq4ueOea74rctWhO68F5/s1600/DSC00156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYCWw97QeX-hX73AltnX8KqXEb55wY-GYEWMV9-WW4Ks2gw-_FfD6jiUY7XtBlbFzcz3hykpJWpwtwKtcDticZ_7OUD9gbJpTPDZOODiLuoZxglvdC-CXnCNddq4ueOea74rctWhO68F5/s320/DSC00156.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When the liquid is cool enough to handle, line your colander with towel #2 and set inside another large pot. Gently scoop out the solids. I scoop as much as possible, then gently pour the rest through the towel/colander. <br />
<br />
Once most of the liquid has drained from the solids, gather the corners of your towel and tie with a rubberband. Hang the cheese to drain until the bag no longer drips, approximately 1 hour. Don't worry if your ricotta drains longer; if it's too dry, you can add a little milk or cream until it reaches a consistency that you like.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmoYpQDwd-5ahJAmtzX8ahP5qPVuVGBQw10uCbi7iuwltQi9AxK8yXR1U8hYD4XOJR4n37WJ05wAv6Lqh9zQ9vghdzE3984yYN5W-MbL336pp1ieJ_sTGbEcX6svQX2AMupVdAbetbJOz/s1600/DSC00160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmoYpQDwd-5ahJAmtzX8ahP5qPVuVGBQw10uCbi7iuwltQi9AxK8yXR1U8hYD4XOJR4n37WJ05wAv6Lqh9zQ9vghdzE3984yYN5W-MbL336pp1ieJ_sTGbEcX6svQX2AMupVdAbetbJOz/s320/DSC00160.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I use a muslin bag for hanging the ricotta.</td></tr>
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Don't worry about getting fancy with the hanging, just make sure that there's a pot beneath to catch the drips. Trust me.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn17M5Nb2Kl1W9BJ9TqgtU2JA6zU9Yq0VQSUGFQ25rhuVJe3lirYruqzxchOCg2_UuvVwr81oysAODUBUrpwHYtUb7w1NUD8BJj9ZNIE3lOFsKY6zNLCwE2E5NNd1kOIeRsEpMo4HlKvOL/s1600/DSC00161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn17M5Nb2Kl1W9BJ9TqgtU2JA6zU9Yq0VQSUGFQ25rhuVJe3lirYruqzxchOCg2_UuvVwr81oysAODUBUrpwHYtUb7w1NUD8BJj9ZNIE3lOFsKY6zNLCwE2E5NNd1kOIeRsEpMo4HlKvOL/s320/DSC00161.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My <em>fancy</em> method of hanging cheese works great, unless I need cinnamon out of the spice cabinet.☺</td></tr>
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One the cheese is drained, scrape it out of the towel and place in a covered glass bowl. Refrigerate for up to 1 week. <br />
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Use your ricotta in pasta dishes, as a base for dips or salad dressings, or on pancakes with a little homemade jam. Yum!<br />
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And if you have have chickens or pigs, they'll appreciate the <strong>leftover</strong>-<em>leftover</em> whey.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwvXjsAmPjZk10OAXRI49r1U2qJvv-BVI-wSXg4Ax36z__RZtV963vTHmDCk1fet21dnrUF-hwHoyLZ0EhGD1CrlQ6H8PZQd-l0uOvdjK-t3bpqb2H23BAYhi_h7oOiMqLlG3m2bk3FqY/s1600/DSC00248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwvXjsAmPjZk10OAXRI49r1U2qJvv-BVI-wSXg4Ax36z__RZtV963vTHmDCk1fet21dnrUF-hwHoyLZ0EhGD1CrlQ6H8PZQd-l0uOvdjK-t3bpqb2H23BAYhi_h7oOiMqLlG3m2bk3FqY/s320/DSC00248.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our newest pigs~The Haminator, Porkticus, and Swineheart</td></tr>
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Probably more than the homecoming "gifts" of free bagels and doughnuts.<br />
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I think the "boys" and I are going to get along just fine, don't you?Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-45019123821408055282013-02-28T19:22:00.000-08:002013-02-28T19:23:36.484-08:00You Should Know #7...The "Romance" of Milking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTy_M9Zq0xwg51klJDXm9HDsqAIEclYVazqXPmEXwV4L1VrCOiTUP-VhOudcV2r1XEGpKlL__UmxqjVP9UKuJ7aYSjvcwjnMJQu7gtzgs4CIMCM2bpUTunH2GFb__8KsTBNVgm7Ou8Nne/s1600/soapbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTy_M9Zq0xwg51klJDXm9HDsqAIEclYVazqXPmEXwV4L1VrCOiTUP-VhOudcV2r1XEGpKlL__UmxqjVP9UKuJ7aYSjvcwjnMJQu7gtzgs4CIMCM2bpUTunH2GFb__8KsTBNVgm7Ou8Nne/s320/soapbox.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
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It's been almost 6 months since our Jersey cow Tilly, gave birth to Maggie Moo. It's been exactly 5-1/2 months since we started milking Tilly. And it's been about the same amount of time that I've been pondering what to do with all that milk. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2lwe8dPFBfBqceVo6loLtxQAP8-o3x-I-AoxVNZnRHDustgBLG2G4B56MmZpixuaqbObKB7SDQIbcP7sekbW0X8UK8ffiIvBcCtFmRAUSH2a_PzQEbUSmVnVRMb-yvO5AtUTrdUnY6BjU/s1600/DSC00184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2lwe8dPFBfBqceVo6loLtxQAP8-o3x-I-AoxVNZnRHDustgBLG2G4B56MmZpixuaqbObKB7SDQIbcP7sekbW0X8UK8ffiIvBcCtFmRAUSH2a_PzQEbUSmVnVRMb-yvO5AtUTrdUnY6BjU/s320/DSC00184.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will work for molasses-covered oats. Moo.</td></tr>
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I'll have you know, I am still clueless. </div>
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See, there are only so many things one can do with fresh cow's milk. Oh, there are blogs out there that will tell us that you can make, bake, cook, can, knead, dehydrate, rehydrate, soak, scrub, and bathe in it, but I've found that they are only telling you that so you'll try it first. And then maybe, just maybe, you'll let them know whether it works or not.</div>
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Here's what you should know about the romantic side of milking...</div>
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<strong>1.</strong> A cow has mood swings, much like a human woman. Any attempt to touch <em>any</em> part of her anatomy during this time could result in a swift kick to the kneecap. Or the face if you're dumb enough to have it under the cow. Or, so I've heard... She can also hold on to her milk if the mood so strikes her. It's best to come prepared. A <strike>triple-shot grande Caramel Macchiatto</strike> scoop of sweet grain ought to do. </div>
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<strong>2.</strong> If you only bring 2 empty gallon jars up to the barn, chances are, the cow will give you exactly 3.33 gallons of milk that day. Which results in <em>someone</em> carrying down a 40 lb. milking machine from the barn, in the rain, on an empty stomach, with only 1 cup of coffee under her <strike>belt</strike> yoga pants. And because of her weakened condition, she'll probably forget the filter up at the barn after she's made the trek back down to the house.</div>
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<strong>3.</strong> 3 gallons of milk/day x 7 days/week = a <em>million</em> or so gallons of milk in the fridge. I mean <strong>fridges</strong>. As in 4 of them. Ratchet straps and bungee cords are a farmer's friend. Because there's always a way to squeeze just one more gallon into an already full refrigerator.</div>
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<strong>4.</strong> One can never have too much <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/10/making-mozzarella.html">Mozzarella</a>. Until the last little spot in the freezer is full anyway. Then one comes up with tricky little ways to incorporate the excess cheese into a meal. Or dessert. Mozzarella Ice Cream anyone?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaayV0rfDqaosmV892UCZwIqWuEoFXgwCDThVtw68VAsz1Q8Zlo_610kjBX6Sfxd7kLsYg7VpJR3b_boWuQNDSAu0p4hIbGTpmOnjsaEMpweBXrq1-gjYj7xeJ6gumBzayXQT_FKlgYhcX/s1600/DSC00209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaayV0rfDqaosmV892UCZwIqWuEoFXgwCDThVtw68VAsz1Q8Zlo_610kjBX6Sfxd7kLsYg7VpJR3b_boWuQNDSAu0p4hIbGTpmOnjsaEMpweBXrq1-gjYj7xeJ6gumBzayXQT_FKlgYhcX/s320/DSC00209.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<strong>5.</strong> Ambitious husbands who get sick of Mozzarella, are quite adept at building cheese presses. Nothing says, "hint, hint" like a 50 lb. press. Complete with a bathroom scale. Hey, it works, and I've quit obsessing over my weight. I call that a "win, win."</div>
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<strong>6.</strong> Just because you now have a cheese press, doesn't mean that your first, second, or third attempt at making cheese will work. The good news with that is that you can now remove the ratchet strap from one of the refrigerators. The bad news is that you've crushed the entire family's dreams of having anything that's not Mozzarella. </div>
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<strong>7.</strong> When you have a catastrophic cheese-making experience, you will always revert back to what you know. Mozzarella. Because your self-esteem needs a little bit of a boost. And the family knows this, so they pretend to be pleased that you've found a way to use Mozzie in a cake.</div>
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<strong>8.</strong> Sometimes, the cheese making actually turns into something good. Like Farmer's Cheddar.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73qm57Pg5sVYgIJwF4bH75lYsTF_2wxSWIDYhhIofLurc8Bv0Q-iRQjkCjAwkUVN1MRpMUPUV0VZtF3Zv_P5AMfit4l236cf9jLl8qoYvwwDX2bc3Rmhgj1Rz4thGCHYPF1uI3BGO_pxS/s1600/DSC00212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73qm57Pg5sVYgIJwF4bH75lYsTF_2wxSWIDYhhIofLurc8Bv0Q-iRQjkCjAwkUVN1MRpMUPUV0VZtF3Zv_P5AMfit4l236cf9jLl8qoYvwwDX2bc3Rmhgj1Rz4thGCHYPF1uI3BGO_pxS/s320/DSC00212.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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But then you read the fine print under the recipe; Farmer's Cheddar has to <em>age</em>. </div>
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<em><strong>For 30 days</strong></em>.</div>
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And for 30 days you worry that it will be rotten, sour, or positively inedible. </div>
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So, you <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/10/making-mozzarella.html">make another batch of Mozzarella</a>, <strong>because you can</strong>.</div>
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<strong>9.</strong> In order to age the Farmer's Cheddar, it has to be painted with wax. This appeals to my artistic side. I feel like I can sculpt a masterpiece that rivals Michelangelo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8QxkiMT9xBuZ7ppYjOmE6ldNfDTLw73lG2QMuzaMUzSWv8QOsan133iQ8KF3HW4yL-KOHQ076T3tmZMPiiVeVuyomU2KKjg2j6_tK38PwNZrsoSjAsS5udYmpzpdPaXL0Mv7iZ4lnKKg/s1600/DSC00235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8QxkiMT9xBuZ7ppYjOmE6ldNfDTLw73lG2QMuzaMUzSWv8QOsan133iQ8KF3HW4yL-KOHQ076T3tmZMPiiVeVuyomU2KKjg2j6_tK38PwNZrsoSjAsS5udYmpzpdPaXL0Mv7iZ4lnKKg/s320/DSC00235.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well, maybe Donatello. Or Raphael. Or Leonardo. In a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle sort of way.</div>
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<strong>10.</strong> 2 gallons of milk = 2 pounds of cheese. It also equals about <strike>20 gallons</strike> 1.95 gallons of leftover whey. Now, leftover whey is great for growing piggies into pork chops, but what to do with all that whey once the piggies have moved to the freezer?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IbKXv2FZpI-nmDS27Tn02uzglHsSVMBIdN9V_AuhSk9YNJ8z6rd-ApIgZx5Natq0l6_ZZy57x9myEVa4TCEqa6zXVegwVD0D0lLUoNNRYdHtaWzZ-4pQfaAl9kO-i0VcpBXrRBoBInn9/s1600/DSC00163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IbKXv2FZpI-nmDS27Tn02uzglHsSVMBIdN9V_AuhSk9YNJ8z6rd-ApIgZx5Natq0l6_ZZy57x9myEVa4TCEqa6zXVegwVD0D0lLUoNNRYdHtaWzZ-4pQfaAl9kO-i0VcpBXrRBoBInn9/s320/DSC00163.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hmmmm...how 'bout some homemade whey ricotta? </div>
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Stay tuned....☺</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-76878940092726634002013-01-24T16:41:00.000-08:002013-01-24T16:41:12.265-08:00Still alive...You remember that moment in the late fall when you realize that life is about to finally slow down? You know~after the canning, garden clean-up, butchering, winterizing, back-to-school planning, etc...<br />
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I remember it too.<br />
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Only, the slow-down didn't happen here.<br />
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Still busy, just a different kind of busy. Here's some of what we've been up to...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh479G3HsbgSfgnVmK3CPZLgyox4RAniOgU31R3V56RCRxXGW4wL8uu6RFDUiMcmvCfFltBrGdaW_LkqLPoU8zabw0VYsMoERNAV9srCVxA6KmAXrQFQjGPQz45LO1lYjzF2N4SXf6CfEfR/s1600/102_7965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh479G3HsbgSfgnVmK3CPZLgyox4RAniOgU31R3V56RCRxXGW4wL8uu6RFDUiMcmvCfFltBrGdaW_LkqLPoU8zabw0VYsMoERNAV9srCVxA6KmAXrQFQjGPQz45LO1lYjzF2N4SXf6CfEfR/s320/102_7965.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bailey guarding the feed room door.</td></tr>
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We said goodbye to our beloved behemoth, Bailey. At 14-1/2 years old, arthritis had set in and crippled her. She was ready, even if we were not. The hardest decision was whether to let her die of natural causes and bury her, or to call the butcher truck and end her suffering. <br />
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We chose the latter. Somehow, it seemed less wasteful. Hopefully by the time our hamburger is ready, we'll be ready. <br />
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For now though, we're eating a lot of vegetarian meals.☺<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdOqZvb-b1UD4V1viBxcr8HnUysFxUi6qDuIJuFqNF-EZ9q9PUkYyR8aCbVbI6d2oIh8y5HRrTDbGbYhpcjhh8En8QpzaTSEGrVe2YFEVm9WID6SpyRY7cpI-qgMtm7ITUotgMpvgtubH/s1600/DSC00045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdOqZvb-b1UD4V1viBxcr8HnUysFxUi6qDuIJuFqNF-EZ9q9PUkYyR8aCbVbI6d2oIh8y5HRrTDbGbYhpcjhh8En8QpzaTSEGrVe2YFEVm9WID6SpyRY7cpI-qgMtm7ITUotgMpvgtubH/s320/DSC00045.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Hey Porky, you've got a smear of jelly behind your ear!" Pigs.</td></tr>
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Porky left for freezer camp too. The largest of our three pigs, he weighed in right at 300 lbs. His siblings were about 50 lbs. behind him, so they're hanging out a little longer. <br />
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Porky was a real pig. <br />
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We'll give up our vegetarian ways when the bacon is ready.☺<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF-Pi8PTPTGI8X4gz8DF4mCO2gS9JQbkC6EWI4xSMVU2y5FvMSPjAg01kmuWbjL-Zw1tusuLcDKZQaZnI1qq9SdOK1rlmHk6alWCtGK3jH2uWl5ZN4J2QXfSECXOsPC73O0N0M_268UXH7/s1600/DSC00127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF-Pi8PTPTGI8X4gz8DF4mCO2gS9JQbkC6EWI4xSMVU2y5FvMSPjAg01kmuWbjL-Zw1tusuLcDKZQaZnI1qq9SdOK1rlmHk6alWCtGK3jH2uWl5ZN4J2QXfSECXOsPC73O0N0M_268UXH7/s320/DSC00127.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company~LOVE.</td></tr>
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My seed order finally arrived. All 66 packets of seeds. I've always said that I'm an addiction just waiting to happen.<br />
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Hi. My name's Kim and I'm a seed catalogue-aholic. <br />
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Hmm...I thought that would purge my guilt. But alas, I have none. Not whatsoever.<br />
<br />
Shameless. Is it Spring yet?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnv4EXDkloo5Jn1hX3E3hjU3yulE2v-FC6F96h27AC0iMxxoH6wplYGhSFknZetwfbccYmJVmCodGX_mJ9ml6rq5wZh5PyAhzNJjJI20EKTDL4pJ5lA77q000a1AKl-Lj1Zx9E42zUm_DR/s1600/102_8134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnv4EXDkloo5Jn1hX3E3hjU3yulE2v-FC6F96h27AC0iMxxoH6wplYGhSFknZetwfbccYmJVmCodGX_mJ9ml6rq5wZh5PyAhzNJjJI20EKTDL4pJ5lA77q000a1AKl-Lj1Zx9E42zUm_DR/s320/102_8134.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12 feet of laminated ugliness.</td></tr>
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I've been spending a lot of time with the new "man" in my life. His name is Mr. Orbital Sander. I love him. He allows me to take ugly furniture like the table above, and turn it into something less ugly.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sand, primer, sand, paint, sand, paint, sand, seal.</td></tr>
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It's hard to tell from the picture, but the table color is ivory painted over barn red, then sanded. I'm not sure it will stay this color, but for now, I'm diggin' it. <br />
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I'm currently eye-balling some ugly laminate cabinets...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSE7oSQIepAwI__3vOkNVfw3s5s2YQmKlAW2zEeJOFGE4psH3wYEvfJkvLzYD5RlXLgJQv6I43FtmLQNaq5Wy7cwSbCVGgCETK9EqDtWr-42eSMht9HQkFuFnGqNllNT9b_RdaAmyTUVCE/s1600/DSC00129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSE7oSQIepAwI__3vOkNVfw3s5s2YQmKlAW2zEeJOFGE4psH3wYEvfJkvLzYD5RlXLgJQv6I43FtmLQNaq5Wy7cwSbCVGgCETK9EqDtWr-42eSMht9HQkFuFnGqNllNT9b_RdaAmyTUVCE/s320/DSC00129.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
...in the dining room, utility, family room, and all 4 bathrooms.<br />
<br />
My Mister got scared, so he booked us vacation tickets to Cancun.<br />
<br />
Like a trip to a tropical paradise will distract me from Mr. Orbital Sander.<br />
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Pshhh...Men.☺Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-42322989669302199162013-01-03T22:51:00.001-08:002013-01-07T08:04:21.385-08:00January Meal Plan<div align="center">
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Now that it's a new year, I've decided to start planning meals again. Not that I wasn't before, I just lacked the "follow through."<br />
<br />
It's all about the follow through.<br />
<br />
Even though I had the best of intentions, my lack of motivation kept me from doing the important things like, thawing the meat, soaking the beans, buying the groceries, etc...More often than not, I found myself pulling out the omelet pan and <i>scrambling</i> up some eggs. <br />
<br />
Omelette's were even too ambitious because they require thought, and my only thought was "git er done." Hence, the scrambling. Not exactly the meals that dreams are made of.<br />
<br />
When planning for a month of meals, I start by shopping in the pantry/freezer first. Then I list the meals that my family likes, that are time-convenient, or are meals that use whatever I have an abundance of. After that list is finished, I divide them into weekly plans and write them on a <a href="http://www.artsyfartsymama.com/2012/01/lets-get-organized-printable.html">weekly planner</a>. (This planner is much classier than my old stand-by...the spiral notebook.) On the back of each weekly planner, I write my grocery list. I've found that it's important to take both my meal plan <b>and</b> my grocery list <i>together</i>, because I almost always forget to add something. <br />
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I say <i>almost always</i> because it makes me feel more competent than I really am. ☺<br />
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Our monthly budget for groceries varies, but we try to keep it around $150.00/week. Every 3 months, we make a Costco and Bob's Redmill run to restock basics such as; sugar, dried beans, rice, spices, and gluten-free staples. <br />
<br />
And it ensures that the Mister and I have at least 1 day every 3 months <i>without</i> kids.<br />
<br />
It's the little things, really.<br />
<br />
Here's what's cookin' this month~<br />
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~Week 1~</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/01/crockpot-chinese-pepper-steak.html">Crockpot Chinese Pepper Steak</a>, brown rice</div>
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baked chicken, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/11/fancy-schmancy-mac-cheese.html">Mac & Cheese</a>, roasted broccoli/cauliflower</div>
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<a href="http://www.scalingbackblog.com/savory-bites/16117996741/">Red Coconut Curry Lentil Soup</a>, gf Naan Bread</div>
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White Chicken Chili (new), <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/04/gluten-free-buttermilk-cornbread.html">gf Cornbread</a></div>
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Parmesan-crusted Tilapia, brown rice/butter, green salad</div>
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Homemade gf Pizza</div>
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Leftovers</div>
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</div>
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~Week 2~</div>
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<a href="http://carrotsncake.com/2010/07/so-cheesy.html">Sweet Potato Patties</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/04/good-old-fashioned-salmon-bake.html">Baked Salmon</a>, green salad</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/01/lentil-burritos.html">Lentil Burritos</a>, Guacamole, tortilla chips</div>
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<a href="http://onceamonthmom.com/paleo-crockpot-mongolian-beef/">Crockpot Mongolian Beef</a>, brown rice, salad</div>
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<a href="http://thecafesucrefarine.blogspot.com/2012/11/thai-butternut-coconut-curry-soup.html">Thai Butternut Curry Soup</a>, Bob's Redmill GF Hearty Whole Grain Bread</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/12/cincinnati-chili.html">Cincinnati Chili</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2012/01/slow-cooker-honey-sesame-chicken-recipe.html">Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken</a>, jasmine rice</div>
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Leftovers</div>
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</div>
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~Week 3~</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/10/chicken-tortilla-soup-kims-kornbread.html">Chicken Tortilla Soup</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/04/gluten-free-buttermilk-cornbread.html">gf Cornbread</a></div>
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Pot roast, Roasted Rosemary Potatoes, veggie (to be determined)</div>
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<a href="http://cookingweekends.blogspot.com/2012/03/coconut-soup-with-kelp-noodles-shrimp.html">Coconut Kelp Soup with Chicken</a></div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/05/venison-stroganoff.html">Venison Stroganoff</a>, jasmine rice</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/chickpea-fritters-and-new-giveaway.html">Chickpea Fritters</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/02/classic-caesar-salad.html">Chicken Caesar Salad</a></div>
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GF Beef Empanadas (new)</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/01/salmon-patties.html">Salmon Patties</a>, brown rice w/butter, green beans</div>
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~Week 4~</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/11/toe-warmin-chili.html">Chili</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/04/gluten-free-buttermilk-cornbread.html">gf Cornbread</a></div>
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baked potatoes, cube steak, salad</div>
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<a href="http://asmallsnippet.com/2011/03/spicy-thai-noodles.html">Spicy Thai Noodles</a> (with brown rice noodles)</div>
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<a href="http://melissaknorris.com/2012/04/18/pioneering-today-slow-cooker-cabbage-rolls-recipe/">Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls</a></div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/02/one-pot-mexi-mac.html">Mexi-Mac</a>, sweet corn</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/10/crockpot-salsa-chicken.html">Salsa Chicken</a>, brown rice, salad</div>
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<a href="http://bevcooks.com/2012/10/coconut-curry-soup/">Coconut Curry Chicken Soup</a></div>
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Breakfasts: <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/10/simple-soaked-oatmeal.html">Soaked Oatmeal</a>, brown rice farina, eggs, raw milk kefir smoothies, muffins, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spiced Granola</a></div>
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Lunches: Leftovers, nachos, egg salad or tuna sandwiches (on home-baked bread)</div>
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Since I've only planned 28 of the 31 days of January, that leaves room for date nights <i>out</i>, or date nights <i>in</i>...</div>
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Hey, it could happen. ☺</div>
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This post is linked to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/01/menu-plan-monday-january-713.html">Menu Mondays at I'm an Organizing Junkie</a>.</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-70197557732468605952013-01-02T17:23:00.000-08:002013-01-02T17:23:46.793-08:00Gluten Free "Neiman Markus" Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7qh4s2QRT65rKItmCfYEikT__tsmbrmXwZZdH0aklaE27ed_JJse_DHNP-BNXpyFICiZypbuAmUApJw_wi-un-fq9R3PdMhp5aGnC2RvpMBy56qOvS-BNnn9yCLzacpk5D1OmkhHFDrm/s1600/DSC00085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7qh4s2QRT65rKItmCfYEikT__tsmbrmXwZZdH0aklaE27ed_JJse_DHNP-BNXpyFICiZypbuAmUApJw_wi-un-fq9R3PdMhp5aGnC2RvpMBy56qOvS-BNnn9yCLzacpk5D1OmkhHFDrm/s320/DSC00085.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay. So, I'm about to share with you just how far removed from civilization I've been. I have a cookie recipe, apparently from someone named Neiman Marcus, and until today, I had no idea who or what that was. <br />
<br />
*Gasp*<br />
<br />
Neiman Marcus is a store that carries designer labels. I googled them. They carry clothes that are usually only seen on runway models. Clothes that <em>normal</em> women roll their eyes at and wonder, "Did she not notice her striped shirt and checkered pants do not go with that paisley jacket?" And that those hideous make-your-eyes-cross patterns sell for $1,000 a piece? And we (I'm inserting myself here) normal women notice that these same models look like they've <em>never</em> eaten a cookie a day in their lives? And then, some clueless woman who thinks Google is a Godsend, finds that not only does Neiman Marcus carry make-you-dizzy outfits, but the store also sells cookies!?! <br />
<br />
Be still my heart. Finally. A store that caters to the blind and the hungry. Now, that's a place I can get behind. <br />
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Just as long as I don't have to wear paisley with my striped wool socks. ☺<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Gluten-free "Neiman Marcus" Chocolate Chip Cookies</span></strong></div>
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~The Players~</div>
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<em>1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature</em></div>
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<em>2 cups brown sugar</em></div>
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<em>6 Tb. granulated sugar</em></div>
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<em>2 eggs</em></div>
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<em>4 t. pure vanilla extract</em></div>
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<em>1 t. baking soda</em></div>
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<em>1 t. baking powder</em></div>
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<em>1 t. sea salt</em></div>
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<em>3-1/2 cups gluten-free cookie flour blend (*see below)</em></div>
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<em>1-1/2 t. xanthan gum</em></div>
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<em>1 Tb. instant espresso powder</em></div>
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<em>2 cups chocolate chips</em></div>
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In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugars together until fluffy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcXfhLOV1LxFxLtcZFADJFKMGT7xNbTcS1bUJ1oxtFTWwoefQxRvb0hvkkT7cybhPA7Au0UHJ44w721oIsNnjsBPVIMlUAyWYr4LEnLfJjuwDf3mnlK9pGpv4e4xcmAleGQxRX5hkYYlr/s1600/DSC00072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcXfhLOV1LxFxLtcZFADJFKMGT7xNbTcS1bUJ1oxtFTWwoefQxRvb0hvkkT7cybhPA7Au0UHJ44w721oIsNnjsBPVIMlUAyWYr4LEnLfJjuwDf3mnlK9pGpv4e4xcmAleGQxRX5hkYYlr/s320/DSC00072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Add the eggs and vanilla and mix well.</div>
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In a smaller bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, sea salt, flour, xanthan gum, and the espresso powder. Mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until thoroughly combined. </div>
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Stir in the chocolate chips.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxWX9OKBjYQoY9X79oF6voc3Qf19QOkhWQ5rqmqr_L9pD023Lt5jT8JKXzlYUiEg42_hvC7hdadTul6u62t_0zrj82zlxEnle0FkonSZ8DmclCqw-KCdi0F7cOXNPkuqA46-_7TOKnIZV/s1600/DSC00080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxWX9OKBjYQoY9X79oF6voc3Qf19QOkhWQ5rqmqr_L9pD023Lt5jT8JKXzlYUiEg42_hvC7hdadTul6u62t_0zrj82zlxEnle0FkonSZ8DmclCqw-KCdi0F7cOXNPkuqA46-_7TOKnIZV/s320/DSC00080.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Drop by large spoonfuls (or cookie scoop) onto parchment lined cookie sheets.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpwW7nq0SehzVnFabl_dwfuaR9E3TCQRJPK53-fClcxrxaK7m1pp8FplgFFwYNybNMvBPCXiX2dB-CCN2OXLHnUvk0Rd1Gw608KNYIuu1UV-6Fc02Id7fTJXCIk6JfumcHXaDSVDrd5C0/s1600/DSC00082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpwW7nq0SehzVnFabl_dwfuaR9E3TCQRJPK53-fClcxrxaK7m1pp8FplgFFwYNybNMvBPCXiX2dB-CCN2OXLHnUvk0Rd1Gw608KNYIuu1UV-6Fc02Id7fTJXCIk6JfumcHXaDSVDrd5C0/s320/DSC00082.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bake @ 375F. for 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly on the cookie sheet before moving to cooling rack.</div>
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<strong>~GF Cookie Blend Flour~</strong></div>
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<em>2 cups fine-ground brown rice flour</em></div>
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<em>2 cups fine-ground white rice flour</em></div>
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<em>1-1/3 cups potato starch (not potato flour)</em></div>
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<em>2/3 cup tapioca starch/flour</em></div>
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Mix ingredients together. Store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator until used.</div>
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The flour recipe comes from Mary Capone, contributing writer/chef for Living Without magazine.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-5589081265661993112013-01-01T13:41:00.001-08:002013-01-01T20:46:04.088-08:00A New Year2013. A new year. For some, a new start. For others, an opportunity to practice the fine art of correcting mistakes.<br />
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<br />
I don't know about you, but I fall into this category. Call it brain fog, old age, or denial that time's-a-flyin', but I'm not a lover of change. As with any new year, <strong>change does come</strong>. It must or we <em>fail to grow.</em> <br />
<br />
Over the last few months, my blog is one thing that hasn't really grown. Not because there aren't people reading it, but because I haven't had the energy, time, or inspiration to put into it. I contemplated closing this blog and devoting my down time to napping and watching old Malcolm in the Middle reruns, but after a month of that, it got old. So, with this new year, I won't be focusing on resolutions that are made to be broken. I'll be focusing on goals. On growth. <br />
<br />
And on getting myself off of the couch. <br />
<br />
The pity party is over. No more woe is me attitude. Life is what it is. You learn to adjust and adapt. You grow and hopefully inspire others by just living life in all its glory...to the fullest. <br />
<br />
Here are some <strike>2012</strike> 2013 goals I have:<br />
<br />
<h3>
For the farm</h3>
<br />
<strong>1. Downsize our farm.</strong> *Gasp!* (Did I just say that out loud?) We have too many free-loaders that are costing us big bucks in the feed department. At least half of the chickens and all but 4 of the turkeys will be heading to freezer camp, as will our 14 year old arthritic cow, Bailey. <br />
<br />
<strong>2. Butcher the hogs.</strong> Those once cute little piglets have turned into 170-266 lbs. of ravenous, dirt-plowin', eating machines. And quite honestly, they scare me. Especially Porky, who is our largest and most aggressive eater. <br />
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<strong>3. Repair/replace water lines at the barn.</strong> The pigs decided to turn their once dry pen into a spa-like environment by rooting up the water lines which caused their home to flood. Of course, they did this while the Mister was in the <em>middle</em> of his work week. For now, our water comes from a waterfall behind the barn and is hauled with buckets. Can't really get more homesteady than that.<br />
<br />
<strong>4. Start our tomato seeds by the end of January.</strong> This is a goal I make every year, and every year I forget to order the seeds in time. Not this year. This will be the year of tomatoes. Which reminds me that I need to place my seed order in the mailbox...<br />
<br />
<strong>5. Help the Mister build a hoop house.</strong> By help, I really mean <em>nag-until-it-gets-done</em>. Because really, I am not a very good hoop house builder.<br />
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<br />
My pathetic attempt is still sort of standing. In a <em>leaning-to-the-East</em> kind of way.<br />
<br />
<h3>
For the home/kitchen</h3>
<br />
<strong>1. Repurpose.</strong> This is a big one because I have a lot of <strike>ugly</strike> old junk. Dressers, tables, even old lamp bases are going to get an overhaul. I plan on getting to know the paint people at Lowe's <em>very</em> well.<br />
<br />
<strong>2. Spend more time in the kitchen.</strong> Yes, I'm weird that way. Fact is, I love my kitchen. I love my pots & pans. And I especially love to get creative. Expect lots of new recipes this year. And thanks to my children, better pictures with the new camera they bought me for Christmas.<br />
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<strong>3. Organize.</strong> In the next month or so, the last of our adult married children will be moving into their new home. While it has been so fun having the rooms full again, I have realized just how unorganized I really am. The first project on the list: Get rid of all the homeschooling supplies I no longer need so I can repurpose some of those bookshelves into a functional pieces of furniture.<br />
<br />
<strong>4. Learn to make hard cheeses.</strong> Is it just me, or do cheese presses look like something from Medieval times? And how come every single cheddar recipe out there is different than the one before? Is it because there's lots of room for error or because no one wants to admit that their cheese-making adventure was an epic fail? Oi.<br />
<br />
<h3>
For our homeschool</h3>
<br />
<strong>1. Update transcripts.</strong> I have an entire year of grades still on paper. Since we have a senior this year, I need to get on this pronto.<br />
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<strong>2. Plan ahead.</strong> I'm a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants-and-hope-you-land-on-something-soft kind of gal. Some would call it "unschooling," I just call it procrastination. We will still have a more laid back school year, but I need to be better prepared for all of the "what's next" questions. <br />
<br />
<strong>3. Graduate Mandie.</strong> Even if I'm not emotionally ready to do so.<br />
<br />
<h3>
For me</h3>
<br />
<strong>1. Be quick to forgive.</strong> It's getting easier with age, since I don't really remember most of the day anyway, but I want to be a <strong>purposeful</strong> forgiver. Life's too short to waste being angry or hurt by words said <em>in the moment</em>. Let it go.<br />
<br />
<strong>2. Continue to heal.</strong> Right now I am reading the book, "Autoimmune, The Cause and the Cure." (Review to come.) I'm lacto-fermenting veggies, drinking raw milk kefir, kombucha, and avoiding all foods that cause an inflammatory response. I'm walking more, listening when my body says to rest, and letting go of the things that I cannot change. Like my height. And how fast my leg hair grows.<br />
<br />
<strong>3. Be patient.</strong> Because all good things come to those who wait. Just as I waited 44 years for a milk cow, I can wait for those moments when my patience is rewarded.<br />
<br />
<strong>4. Listen more.</strong> Let my actions speak for themselves. And dear Lord, let my actions speak only good things. And my temper tantrums be behind my closed bathroom door.<br />
<br />
<strong>5. Enjoy every single moment.</strong> Every breath. Every joy. Every tear. Even the tears that come from sorrow. Because in our sorrow, there is life. It means that we are feeling. That we are living. And that we are loving.<br />
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Happy New Year, from my home to yours!<br />
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<strong>2013~Bring it on!</strong></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-28430205438594763002012-11-28T19:41:00.000-08:002012-11-28T20:11:45.617-08:00The CollectorI am a collector. <br />
<br />
I wish I could say that I was a collector of vintage jewelry, fine wines, or antique gadgets, but alas, it is not that glamorous.<br />
<br />
I am a collector of auto-immune diseases. <br />
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I am now up to three.<br />
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<br />
If I were looking at the glass as half-full, I would say, "Well self, you have a good eye for collecting." (Only 1 good eye though. The other has a scar across the pupil. Kind of worthless. Except it balances my face out.)<br />
<br />
Right now my half-full glass is lying on the kitchen floor, not shattered, but slightly chipped. I'm down, but not out. <br />
<br />
Okay, a little out. The latest disease process requires a low-dose chemotherapy treatment. (I do NOT have cancer. Promise.)<br />
<br />
Which makes me a little sick and tired. <br />
<br />
The four pages that came with my "therapy" pills left my mind reeling with all of the warnings. All of which followed the first. <br />
<br />
<em>This product could cause death.</em><br />
<br />
Anything that <em><strong>isn't</strong></em> death would fall into <em>the glass is half-full</em> category. At least for me.<br />
<br />
I'm not looking for sympathy, I just felt the need to share why I've been a little absent from blog-land. Life is always busy, but now when I have a moment to relax, I do it behind closed eyelids. And with the Christmas season upon us, closing my eyes may be a luxury that will have to wait until the New Year. <br />
<br />
Except by then, I plan on being completely healed.<br />
<br />
Half-full, baby.<br />
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-49279160991966257432012-11-25T17:06:00.000-08:002012-11-26T07:34:19.534-08:00Farm "Flowers" and a Cocoa Mix RecipeAfter an amazing Thanksgiving holiday, it's time to get back in the saddle.<br />
<br />
If I <em>had</em> a saddle anyway.<br />
<br />
Of course, then I'd need a horse too. Maybe I should just say, "It's time to get back into the routine of normal life." <br />
<br />
But then, I'd have to define <em>normal</em>. <br />
<br />
Monday may be harder than I expected.<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving for me is an excuse to overeat. Because apparently, a person is only allowed to have roasted turkey, cranberries, stuffing, and pumpkin pie once a year. I think it's a law or something. So I indulge. Which leads to guilty days spent lying on the sofa, wearing dirty yoga pants, and watching Christmas movies on Lifetime. It's only on Sunday when I awaken from my turkey-induced stupor and begin to function again. <br />
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Since I had worked so hard on our Thanksgiving dinner, my Mister decided to bring me home the farmer's equivalent of a bouquet of flowers.<br />
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<br />
Meet Flower. He's a rooster. As in, <em>a boy chicken</em>. And yes, that is my kitchen table and I am inserting a little <em>sarcasm</em> here. (Because we now have <strong>6</strong> <em>boy chickens</em>.) Flower was living a life of luxury in town when his owners discovered his incredible singing talent. Since town-dwellers are only allowed 3 hens inside the city limits, Flower had to go. <br />
<br />
Somehow, he ended up here. As my gift. My Mister is either a softie at heart, or he just gets me. Chickens, cows, and chocolate...that's all I need.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Speaking of chocolate...</span><br />
<br />
I love it. Especially hot. What I don't love is all of the ingredients on the can of mix. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why <em>partially hydrogenated <strong>anything</strong></em> should be in cocoa mix. It makes about as much sense as the anti-caking chemicals they also add. Seriously? Is <em><strong>caking cocoa</strong></em> really a problem? Could it be because there is hydrogenated fats in it? <br />
<br />
Hmmm....something to ponder.<br />
<br />
Before you go and buy another can of chemically-laden hot chocolate mix, give homemade a try. And because there are only 5 ingredients in this version, I'm calling this a health food.☺<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> ~Hot Chocolate Mix~</span></strong></div>
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<u>The Players</u></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>1 (26 oz.) bag of Bob's Redmill Non-fat Dry Milk Powder </em></div>
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<em>~or~</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>5-1/2 cups dry milk powder of your choice</em></div>
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<em>1-1/2 cups organic sugar</em></div>
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<em>1 cup unsweetened organic, fair-trade cocoa powder</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (I get organic in bulk at Whole Foods.)</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>1/4 t. sea salt</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Into a large bowl, mix all the ingredients. Put 1/3 of the mixture at a time into a food processor and pulse until chocolate chips are powdery. (They will cease to make that obnoxious racket that chocolate chips in a food processor does!) Pour mixture into another bowl. Continue to process 2 more batches until all of the mix is done. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9Gr7LPfd_a_ukA9tJIAFIKHM6Mm8C9SOhAlnesvMR5XOZBwDdDj44erMTMLAbLKnJQ5zrjw_OP_P_K8QRWPT4Z5sR6427nLzBaL9DGXB2i2DHhzYKKR8HbAnI_9_Mx-uyOzuIqnyXkOg/s1600/102_8665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9Gr7LPfd_a_ukA9tJIAFIKHM6Mm8C9SOhAlnesvMR5XOZBwDdDj44erMTMLAbLKnJQ5zrjw_OP_P_K8QRWPT4Z5sR6427nLzBaL9DGXB2i2DHhzYKKR8HbAnI_9_Mx-uyOzuIqnyXkOg/s320/102_8665.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Pour into a lidded canister or jar. </div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To make cocoa: Add 3 tablespoons of cocoa mix to a cup of hot milk or water. Stir well. </div>
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Don't forget the whipped cream!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
This post is linked to <a href="http://homesteadrevival.blogspot.com/">The Homestead Barn Hop</a>.</div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-48689371081126653592012-11-15T20:04:00.001-08:002012-11-15T21:46:51.267-08:00DIY~Wool Dryer Balls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkmA00LsAnEuJ5Ltbj2d0nq45NH4eVOXb7Exrli4sDjIopg0ci5hPbr4FB28KZg5tQ9-Bn9O91tIDjnCJVsOuphc2LlGSIfY2XCWYoCq_DXKTVjPK9Oh-o9iCxADMYmosFSzDM8wGeZ1c/s1600/102_8600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkmA00LsAnEuJ5Ltbj2d0nq45NH4eVOXb7Exrli4sDjIopg0ci5hPbr4FB28KZg5tQ9-Bn9O91tIDjnCJVsOuphc2LlGSIfY2XCWYoCq_DXKTVjPK9Oh-o9iCxADMYmosFSzDM8wGeZ1c/s320/102_8600.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A few months ago, the Mister and I attended our 2nd Mother Earth News Fair. While we enjoy listening to our favorite farming "peeps", we also enjoy perusing the different vendor booths, dreaming about all the things that could make our lives easier if only we were millionaires. One vendor that we especially liked was selling all kinds of green laundry supplies, most of which I already did. Except one.<br />
<br />
Wool dryer balls were created to take the place of toxic dryer sheets. Made with 100% wool yarn, they help to eliminate static cling, decrease drying time, and keep your towels and <em>unmentionables</em> properly fluffed. But, at $21.00 for a set of 4, buying them just didn't make economical sense. So, I googled it. <br />
<br />
You should know that there are literally hundreds of posts dedicated to the making of dryer balls. Either people have entirely too much time on their hands, or they balked at the high prices as I did. For me, it is a little of both. I have a<em> really</em> difficult time watching television and not doing something else at the same time. Maybe I'm just too ADHD to sit still for an entire 2 hour flick. Or maybe it's because I know that my restless hands drive my family nuts. <br />
<br />
That's probably it.☺<br />
<br />
Making wool dryer balls is easy, and for $10 (or less), you too can have your own 4 fancy balls to toss in the dryer.<br />
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And if you're as fortunate as I, your family will burst into fits of giggles when you ask, "Where are my balls?"<br />
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I really need to get a life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQTGGhty4atLYOiEVNtPutePcpD59_DwrA-Mcj1teQ7mmHcEIswy3Nn35jtwriDnSk9NRervQ4YMPOX6yWY2DVb-ZY4y-Ietb8-WmCreb4zHk7FWHXHIqG91Zoy937guykxQZ8znbVSyy/s1600/102_8599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQTGGhty4atLYOiEVNtPutePcpD59_DwrA-Mcj1teQ7mmHcEIswy3Nn35jtwriDnSk9NRervQ4YMPOX6yWY2DVb-ZY4y-Ietb8-WmCreb4zHk7FWHXHIqG91Zoy937guykxQZ8znbVSyy/s320/102_8599.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here's what you'll need: <br />
<br />
1 skein of 100% wool yarn (Make sure it is NOT machine washable or the yarn will not felt.)<br />
1 nylon stocking (I use cheap knee highs.)<br />
1 tapestry needle<br />
acrylic yarn (for tying)<br />
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Start by wrapping yarn around two fingers several times. <br />
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Remove the yarn from your fingers, turn the loops sideways and wrap a few more times.<br />
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Now fold this in half and continue wrapping, turning often to make a ball.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdfXMoCCEjZcDyjWAboetwWlt5GlmqEfGPykU5k9tTgMBzuyZBEC0e0UkgCu7eE2sh1Ps6_B6d2rF-yJXEdbJN8lc8LDmJNa345Xv_WV3WFFc_QuKNvqbMLWtoMrBJNrNh5XF08-mSKC2c/s1600/102_8601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdfXMoCCEjZcDyjWAboetwWlt5GlmqEfGPykU5k9tTgMBzuyZBEC0e0UkgCu7eE2sh1Ps6_B6d2rF-yJXEdbJN8lc8LDmJNa345Xv_WV3WFFc_QuKNvqbMLWtoMrBJNrNh5XF08-mSKC2c/s320/102_8601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Continue to roll until the ball is 5-6 inches in circumference. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeBo1N6wO9hkzz_kh5ffNShn6ROOilAaL2g348BZMD-gU_HOs1Hu4jiVbPJfpVdMRVAFwiRjicfmvF34OSsz3KPqIpmvDTHNFFcv_4-iCeyAc85PfI68bRquYOncGSbZ7Cuv4R5W03U6G/s1600/102_8603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeBo1N6wO9hkzz_kh5ffNShn6ROOilAaL2g348BZMD-gU_HOs1Hu4jiVbPJfpVdMRVAFwiRjicfmvF34OSsz3KPqIpmvDTHNFFcv_4-iCeyAc85PfI68bRquYOncGSbZ7Cuv4R5W03U6G/s320/102_8603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thread the end of the yarn through a tapestry needle and draw the end through the ball.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXaFVo9eVldUr6n9Ps93sWylnehWMucw_wB6ls9FClerOdTpvqn6jrw3KBmudKbGHDlQeJyXkhqPq3LORFCJZtuMtqrXjImKDEt0O4c_JO16tCLZaLKU_fkTnrFyqKJOZI7mWVud1zUTC/s1600/102_8604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXaFVo9eVldUr6n9Ps93sWylnehWMucw_wB6ls9FClerOdTpvqn6jrw3KBmudKbGHDlQeJyXkhqPq3LORFCJZtuMtqrXjImKDEt0O4c_JO16tCLZaLKU_fkTnrFyqKJOZI7mWVud1zUTC/s320/102_8604.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tie into a knot by looping around 1 strand of yarn. Cut off the tail or tuck back into the ball. Place the ball into a nylon stocking and push to the bottom. Tie off the stocking just above the ball with a piece of acrylic yarn. (Don't use wool yarn for this, you don't want it to felt.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfZEB05AQvhcAnDNYwNgUDIA0_JBarH78yCWi9aZMSnEZxDWQDLQBocl43YSP-1myiFbLYCf4Q-kuzy5Z3PgopKHBcE5wya1DgOKm9oPRwLRu5LBbBdOI4JqmPJK2u2TzRPPpxa_5IZ2X/s1600/102_8608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfZEB05AQvhcAnDNYwNgUDIA0_JBarH78yCWi9aZMSnEZxDWQDLQBocl43YSP-1myiFbLYCf4Q-kuzy5Z3PgopKHBcE5wya1DgOKm9oPRwLRu5LBbBdOI4JqmPJK2u2TzRPPpxa_5IZ2X/s320/102_8608.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Make 3 more balls, adding each one to the stocking and tying off. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLU5mXi6fplpzsmiV4wa0EiwtQDLYGbB6kLrl6KeFguySExQFHxiQGDjOcA3QE0goZNu4L6wg7FblYQpbPfYg2Xj9ca-QEK47KEnsIUhUv4v0h5zEl-4TiFPaYfhVI8m-DGOQtdpGh8I3/s1600/102_8610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLU5mXi6fplpzsmiV4wa0EiwtQDLYGbB6kLrl6KeFguySExQFHxiQGDjOcA3QE0goZNu4L6wg7FblYQpbPfYg2Xj9ca-QEK47KEnsIUhUv4v0h5zEl-4TiFPaYfhVI8m-DGOQtdpGh8I3/s320/102_8610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Place the balls in the washing machine and wash on hot with no soap. When finished, toss in the dryer and dry on high heat.<br />
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After the balls are dried, untie the yarn and remove the balls from the stocking. Increase the size of the balls by adding more yarn until the balls are approximately 9-inches around. Tie off as before and return to the stocking. Again, wash on hot with no soap, and dry on high heat. If you want, you can repeat the wash/dry cycle for a third time. You don't have to; the balls will continue to felt as they are used.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrhiiH8qAV3KIQTJyxSMzvWgvHk2cDaB869ys-F34aEorOKIzKsXzvftUCnpmdCLWY5CFRy1AlIh9ZJbIXMnqJeTuatf0cZMRoXNxewX1UpVz6UZcsYtIm_3gBU93hTqetfKpk5CXNT8S/s1600/102_8612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrhiiH8qAV3KIQTJyxSMzvWgvHk2cDaB869ys-F34aEorOKIzKsXzvftUCnpmdCLWY5CFRy1AlIh9ZJbIXMnqJeTuatf0cZMRoXNxewX1UpVz6UZcsYtIm_3gBU93hTqetfKpk5CXNT8S/s320/102_8612.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dryer ball on the right is new; the one on the left has been in use for a few months.</td></tr>
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To use, place a minimum of 4 balls in the dryer per load. (I use 8 for large loads.) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe4AugFuDAsDImy45hhyZTCZYfnxIYCg5b24pqYCSbuLmZk3VVTyehuaf1txSJDZpwh_0roP3PPwAwFduieUM7JEliHJCb4r_qqai7kb4-nhgWtww7A0QNjLAIZkP2De0P87Noca7UrgV/s1600/102_8600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe4AugFuDAsDImy45hhyZTCZYfnxIYCg5b24pqYCSbuLmZk3VVTyehuaf1txSJDZpwh_0roP3PPwAwFduieUM7JEliHJCb4r_qqai7kb4-nhgWtww7A0QNjLAIZkP2De0P87Noca7UrgV/s320/102_8600.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just one word of caution when making these~don't, I repeat <em>don't</em> <em><strong>ever</strong></em> watch a movie with high adrenaline action, such as "The Amazing Spiderman." You may find your balls rolling half way across the living room...<br />
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...while the family comes up with more reasons to giggle.☺<br />
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This post is linked to <a href="http://networkedblogs.com/ENKOE">Farm Girl Blog Fest at Fresh Eggs Daily</a>.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-42625651027545467232012-11-11T17:45:00.000-08:002012-11-12T07:27:29.322-08:00Cleaning & Curing Walnuts<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBni4BJER2xqPDMkVtWmWll9qT8feTmnQ5G_fH7MoTnW9YbMMafh_-j1FSCpla6u3jH1z5deTlXrfn_KoOmZgpTVpktkfHadnffSIYebNvmxJ83qiYiED_DyTiKnM08A9GpegbBZONvuaJ/s1600/walnutenglishtree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBni4BJER2xqPDMkVtWmWll9qT8feTmnQ5G_fH7MoTnW9YbMMafh_-j1FSCpla6u3jH1z5deTlXrfn_KoOmZgpTVpktkfHadnffSIYebNvmxJ83qiYiED_DyTiKnM08A9GpegbBZONvuaJ/s320/walnutenglishtree.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.hort.purdue.edu/ext/senior/fruits/walnute4.htm">Photo credit</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I like nuts. Of course, I'm from a long line of nuts, so it figures I would like <em>some</em> of them. But I'm not talking about <em>those</em> nuts, I'm talking English Walnuts.<br />
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English walnuts are high in omega 3's, vitamin E, and minerals such as; manganese, copper, iron, and selenium. They have been shown to help lower LDL levels of cholesterol, are high in protein, and are a rich source of anti-oxidants. <br />
<br />
But that's not why I like them. <br />
<br />
They're just delicious. Besides adding walnuts to baked goods (especially chocolate chips cookies!), I like to substitute them for pine nuts in pesto, toast and add them to sauteed veggies, and sprinkle on top of ice cream. For the holidays, my family likes walnuts that have been dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with coarse sea salt for a treat. <br />
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Last week, we had the opportunity to pick walnuts with some family members. I was so excited about picking the nuts that I forgot my camera, but don't worry, I'll create a <em>visual</em> for you...<br />
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Imagine 6 adults, <strong>bent over</strong> in a cow field, chucking nuts into 5 gallon buckets, <strong>for 2 hours straight</strong>. <br />
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No pictures needed. You're welcome.☺<br />
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When picking walnuts, it's important to wear gloves. Since we were in a cow field (complete with very large Holsteins that looked like they had been <em>zapped</em> by growth hormones), we also wore boots. Depending on the weather, the walnuts start to ripen and fall from the trees in October and November. Most of the nuts that fall still have some of the husk (that has turned black) on them. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPudtoAykf5pXZdqytB3PbmQQMq4iTQNe3wEkOZAhazsNNd7oAF1txmznvd2Sqmb_NuJjbvKvQaoLQCH10xfE5H4h90i3GEAIp60BVmuXFNFaBMX7Ox037axkJ_VYUNwEx4rjIiW5XTL2E/s1600/walnut_eng2_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPudtoAykf5pXZdqytB3PbmQQMq4iTQNe3wEkOZAhazsNNd7oAF1txmznvd2Sqmb_NuJjbvKvQaoLQCH10xfE5H4h90i3GEAIp60BVmuXFNFaBMX7Ox037axkJ_VYUNwEx4rjIiW5XTL2E/s320/walnut_eng2_lg.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.coloradotrees.org/feature_trees/walnut_eng.php">Photo credit</a>)</td></tr>
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Once on the ground, the husk gets a little slimy. Apparently, this is completely normal and probably the real reason for the gloves.☺ We came home with approximately 80+ pounds of nuts.<br />
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Before the nuts can be cured, they first must be washed. <br />
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The nuts are then dried with a leaf blower, because that's how my father-in-love rolls...<br />
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before being picked through to look for any that are open. Those are discarded because:</div>
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1. They were in a cow field. <em>With cows</em>. <strong><em>And poop</em></strong>. </div>
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2. They make great condo's for insects looking to get out of the weather. Extra protein, yes. Appetizing? Not at all.</div>
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To cure the walnuts, we spread them out on old window screens that were placed near the woodstove.</div>
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And to detract dogs and kids, we put those screens up on drying racks.<br />
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The walnuts should be ready in 3-7 days, after which they'll be stored in gunny sacks until needed.</div>
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Until then, I'll be practicing <em>patience</em>. It <em>is</em> a virtue, you know.☺</div>
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This post is linked to <a href="http://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2012/11/homestead-barn-hop-87.html#more-4041">The Homestead Barn Hop</a>.</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-72938748813783118172012-11-06T16:41:00.001-08:002012-11-08T21:46:53.750-08:00Home Remedies~Elderberry Syrup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every summer, I tag all the elderberry trees on our property, with the hopes of harvesting some juicy purple berries in the fall. And every fall, I'm disappointed to find that the deer have beaten me to the harvest.<br />
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Those deer are a sneaky bunch.<br />
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I know that the deer are the culprits because I've become very adept at tracking. Not footprints. But poop. Specifically, purple deer poop. And I'm pretty certain that our deer population is much healthier because of those berries.<br />
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Elderberries are known for being high in antioxidants. They are also packed with vitamins, A, B, and C, and are great for boosting the immune system. Fresh berries can be used to make jams, jellies, and wine. Dried berries are great for adding to baked goods, or rehydrating and making syrup. <br />
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Elderberry syrup has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. Taken at the onset of a cold or flu, elderberry has been shown to reduce the length of illness. Some people even take the syrup on a daily basis to keep their immune systems strong during cold & flu season.<br />
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And since "The Crud" has decided to pay our house a visit, I decided to take some action before the Mister gets it.<br />
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Because there's nothing worse than a man-cold. (Click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mz6DktXFvg4">here</a> to see for yourself.)<br />
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I owe it to my family to keep <em>that</em> from happening.☺<br />
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~The Players~</div>
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2/3 cup dried elderberries (I purchase mine <a href="http://www.frontiercoop.com/products.php?ct=hchhaz&cn=Elderberries">here</a>.)</div>
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3-1/2 cups filtered water</div>
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1-inch piece of fresh ginger root, peeled</div>
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2 sticks of cinnamon</div>
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8 whole cloves</div>
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1 cup raw honey (as local as you can get it)</div>
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Pour water into a medium saucepan and add elderberries, gingerroot, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring to a full boil; cover, and reduce heat to simmer. Let the mixture simmer until liquid is reduced by half. This will take approximately an hour to 90 minutes.</div>
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Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh strainer. Allow the liquid to cool to lukewarm. </div>
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Add honey to cooled mixture and stir well to combine. Store elderberry syrup in a glass bottle or jar in refrigerator. </div>
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I give 1 teaspoon, 3x's/daily to my children. (For kids under 6, I would give 1/2 teaspoon.) The Mister & I dose up with 1 Tablespoon, 3x's daily.</div>
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*Never give raw honey to any child under the age of 1. </div>
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This post is linked to <a href="http://fresh-eggs-daily.blogspot.com/2012/11/farm-girl-blog-fest-8.html">Fresh Eggs Daily's Farm Girl Friday Blog Fest</a> and <a href="http://deborahjeansdandelionhouse.blogspot.com/2012/11/farmgirl-friday-blog-hop-82.html">Dandelion House's The Farmgirl Friday Blog Hop.</a></div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-77710343057298819742012-11-04T21:44:00.000-08:002012-11-05T06:52:04.646-08:00It's All About the Butter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There was a time when I didn't understand this well-known quote from Julia Child. While growing up, I thought that margarine <em><strong>was</strong></em> butter, and cream came from the freezer section with mini-marshmallows and nuts in it. <br />
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In my 20's, I learned that there <strong>was</strong> a difference between butter and margarine, which had nothing to do with nutritional value. It was all about the finances. As a young married couple, margarine was cheap. I remember buying a particular brand that cost a mere $.39/lb. That was an entire box! For 39 cents! And I could add it to our 25 cent carton of macaroni & cheese. We were poor, and it was ignorant bliss that we chose to stay in until much later.<br />
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At the turn of the 20th century, heart disease was unheard of. And everyone ate butter. Because margarine didn't exist. (Neither did soybean oil, but I'm not opening that can of worms today!) It wasn't until some dude in the 1960's declared that saturated fat caused heart disease, and the ban on butter began. Even though, up until this point, every home in America had been using butter, much of which was made right at home. And if butter is so bad, why hasn't the rate of heart disease <em>decreased</em> with the <em>increased</em> use of low-fat, butter-like psuedo spreads? Maybe because butter, by itself, is not the culprit of clogged arteries and coronary heart disease?<br />
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I wish I would have known how easy it was to make butter earlier. It takes only minutes, and doesn't require that you have a family cow or a special churn. Homemade butter is best when used fresh, but it can also be frozen for up to 2 months if wrapped in waxed paper and placed in a freezer bag. (I freeze in 1/2 cup servings so it's easier to use in baking.)<br />
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And don't let fear of butter stand in your way...<br />
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...start with the cream.<br />
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That Julia Child was a smart lady.<br />
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There are a couple of ways to make butter at home. First, start with some heavy whipping cream. This can be fresh from the cow, or bought from the grocery store. Just try to find cream that has not been ultra-pasteurized and is organic if at all possible. <br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Method #1~</span></strong><br />
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Pour 2 cups heavy cream into a wide-mouth quart jar. Place a piece of plastic wrap over the jar, then secure with a screw-top lid. <br />
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And shake.<br />
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*See below for next step.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Method #2~</span></strong><br />
<br />
Pour cream into mixing bowl with paddle attachment. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_s-RZgSlEx9pHHnUMbtG7WGAPsC2jRBKRMNOt6PI5r2yeyMSj_n3X7ajwgRkV_rFDsmKVYhaGCblE2v6xj6UMboQBqvy71yBFpE50koZvWJCtWDcRYS1CTRrlkFfr65ExnmYdpdcMqfrJ/s1600/102_8545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_s-RZgSlEx9pHHnUMbtG7WGAPsC2jRBKRMNOt6PI5r2yeyMSj_n3X7ajwgRkV_rFDsmKVYhaGCblE2v6xj6UMboQBqvy71yBFpE50koZvWJCtWDcRYS1CTRrlkFfr65ExnmYdpdcMqfrJ/s320/102_8545.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If your mixer has a splash guard, use it, otherwise you can just place a towel over the mixer.<br />
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Turn the mixer on medium-high and let it run until the butter has separated from the buttermilk.<br />
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*For Method #1 & #2~Using a strainer, pour the buttermilk off. (Save it for the chickens, pigs, or use it in a recipe.) <br />
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Put the butter back into the bowl and pour some ice water into it. I use the strainer to keep the ice out of the butter.</div>
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Using the mixer with the same attachment, turn it on the lowest setting and allow water/butter to swirl around for about 15 seconds. Pour off the water. You can add salt now, if desired. (I only add salt if we're going to put it in the butter crock.) Use a wooden spoon to press out any remaining water, before transferring the butter to a covered glass container. Store in the fridge until ready to use, or in a butter crock for soft butter.<br />
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Now I need to find some biscuits...☺<br />
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This post is linked to <a href="http://newlifeonahomestead.com/2012/11/mondays-homestead-barn-hop-39/">The Homestead Barn Hop</a>.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-60178943294992333762012-10-29T19:56:00.001-07:002012-10-29T19:56:14.699-07:00You Should Know #6...The Real Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I've got a confession to make. Mostly to myself. And it's monumental. Or just mental. Whatever it is, it took half of a large-sized chocolate bar (It was organic.), and an entire bottle of red wine (It was on sale.) for me to realize...<br />
<br />
I forgot who I am. The real me. Not the me who answers to "Honey", "Momma", or "Nana". Not the me who is constantly answering another question as to <em>how I'm feeling</em>. And certainly not the me who stares back in the mirror. I don't know her. She's just, well, she's just old-looking. And tired. So, I decided to have a talk with myself about who I really am in the hopes that maybe, just maybe I'll find myself again without having to get a tattoo on my arm that just says, "Kim".<br />
<br />
Here's what I think you (and me) should know about me.<br />
<br />
1. I'm a yeller. Growing up in a house of yellers, I decided early on, that I was not going to be one of <em>those</em> parents. Then I became one. Times 9. Not that I'm excusing the yelling, but it's very easy to judge someone whose shoes you've never walked in. So, I'm working on this. The yelling, not the judging. I'm a mess. But, a mess in progress.<br />
<br />
2. I don't like meat. There. I've said it. I like to raise it. I like to cook it. But I do not like to eat it. Probably because I have to floss after eating it. And I hate flossing. It's my own act of rebellion. When the dentist asks, I smile and turn it back to him, "What do <strong>you</strong> think?" He usually tells me what a good job I've been doing and gives me a baggy with an extra toothbrush and, you guessed it, dental floss. I use it to cut cinnamon rolls. It's a win-win.<br />
<br />
3. I am a cryer. Oh yes. Whenever I get angry, I cry. Sad? I cry. Sick? Happy? Ecstatic? Yep, crying. I go to Costco for the sole purpose of buying Kleenex in bulk. It makes me so happy to see all those boxes wrapped together in plastic, so I cry. Then I think about all the dolphins that will die because of all the plastic, so I cry a little harder. Which leads me to bust into the bulk wrapping so I can blot and blow. I can no longer shop at our local Hallmark store, because I've blubbered over every card from <strong>Congratulations on Your New Baby</strong>, to <strong>Just Because I Was Thinking of You</strong>. I've now resorted to buying blank cards and signing my name next to a hastily scribbled, Happy Birthday. That's it. No sentiment whatsoever. Because I'll cry. And it would smear my signature.<br />
<br />
4. I wear bifocals. Well, not really. I got them. I hear they're cute, but I can't see a dang thing with them. And they make me walk like a drunken sailor. I feel like I need Dramamine just to get to the kitchen. Give me a fishing pole and I'd swear I was on a boat in the ocean. I'll probably regret not wearing them someday. But not today. I'm just thankful they haven't made me puke yet.<br />
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5. I like to quilt while I watch episodes of House Hunters International. Too bad I have to choose between <em><strong>seeing</strong></em> <em><strong>the television</strong></em> or <em><strong>seeing the quilt stitches</strong></em>. Maybe I should take some Dramamine and put on the bifocals. But that would be too easy, and I like to do things the hard way. Besides, seeing vacation homes in Jamaica may make me start thinking get-rich-quick-Ponzi-scheme. It's best if I just don't see the t.v.<br />
<br />
6. My knees knock when I have to stand in front of an audience. Seriously. I sing on the worship team at church and it always feels like my first time. Thankfully, my knees knock to the rhythm of the music, so it's almost like we have a drummer. Almost. A few years ago, I had to give a little speech. My throat dried up, my lips stuck together, and I developed a stutter I didn't previously have. But, if I get to play a character, I have no fear at all. Sometimes it's easier to play someone else than it is to just be me. Next time I have to give a speech, I'm going to pretend to be Ricky <strong>and</strong> Lucy Ricardo. So I can yell. <strong>And</strong> cry.<br />
<br />
7. I don't particularly like some of the blogs that I follow. Don't get me wrong, I'm probably not talking about you. But when I first started blogging, I followed everyone. I wanted to learn. I needed to know about real, whole foods. I needed to learn how to use a glue gun and make my <em>junk</em> look like something from <em>Pier 1</em>. I wanted to know how (fill in the blank) cleaned her house, schooled her kids, grew her garden, bought a month's worth of groceries with 2 nickels and a prayer, etc...all without yelling. Or crying. I quickly realized that following all of those people made me feel bad about the job I was doing. It wasn't real. Nobody shows the ugly part of living. Because really, who would read it? Food blogs never show the scorched pans. Or the sink full of dirty dishes. The whole food blogs don't share that their kids actually gagged when mom served up Kidney Pie, or Liver & Onions. And they make you believe that a good old tub of Ben & Jerry's has never graced the inside of their freezers. Most home school blogs don't share the fact that little Johnny refused to do his required reading. Or the science experiment failed miserably. They don't show the exhausted mom or dad at the end of a really bad school day. And we all have them. And for goodness sake, groceries cost more than $40/week for a family of 6. It's a fact. Even if you are a vegetarian, home gardening, canner/producer. Toilet paper isn't free. And for a family of 6, that's half the grocery budget right there. I should know. We buy that in bulk too.<br />
<br />
8. I don't like to sit in movie theaters. I can't stand the thought of my seat being sat in during a previous showing. That person may have had a cold. Or sticky fingers. Or didn't wash his/her hands after using the public bathroom. I shudder to think what kinds of germs are covering my chair and I spend the entire movie wondering if any of those germs have legs. For that same reason...<br />
<br />
9. I don't use public restrooms. Unless it's an emergency. Then I'll only use the bathroom at Lowes. Because it's nice. And clean. And I get some really great decorating ideas while sitting in the stall. I usually feel guilty about just using them for their bathroom, so I end up buying something inexpensive. Like sandpaper. I currently have enough sandpaper to sand down the entire outside walls of our 2-story, 5600 square foot house. Probably the inside too. <br />
<br />
10. I am technologically challenged. See that rooster at the top of my page? His name was Elvis. Emphasis on <em>was</em>. He's dead. Coming up on 2 years in fact. We now have another rooster. His name is Moonshine. And he looks nothing like the dead Elvis. But I can't remember how to change the picture at the top of the page. So dead Elvis stays. I spent an entire weekend Swagbucking "How to create new banners for blogs." Which left me yelling at the computer. Then crying. I think there was chocolate involved in there somewhere, but the wine obliterated that memory.<br />
<br />
In conclusion, I've decided to dye my hair. Because really, that was all this was about. Finding the real me. Under all that gray.☺<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-85091601854656953672012-10-21T16:52:00.000-07:002012-10-26T08:04:01.589-07:00Making Mozzarella<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lately, my life has been about<strong> cheese</strong>. Pounds and pounds of cheese. With gallons to spare, mozzarella has become one of my favorite ways to use up the excess milk that seems to multiply overnight. <br />
<br />
And, it seems that <a href="http://www.jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/09/decadent-chocolate-mocha-pudding.html">pudding</a> for breakfast, lunch, and dinner isn't an acceptable form of excess milk usage in the United States of America.<br />
<br />
Go figure.<br />
<br />
Since I do not have a cheese press (yet!), I researched recipes for soft cheeses before settling on mozzarella. Then I had to sift through all of those recipes for one that made sense to me.<br />
<br />
After a couple hours of internet use and a postponement of a history lesson I needed to teach, I finally found the one. Like a light shining from up above, my eyes went to the DVD stand and landed on a copy of Homestead Blessings: Dairy Delights. <a href="http://www.homestead-blessings.com/">The West ladies</a> know how to make cheese. And ice cream. And butter. While smiling.<br />
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And they don't have any fancy-schmancy gadgets to do it. <br />
<br />
Mozzarella is a very easy cheese to make. If you have a source of fresh milk, use it. But if you don't, don't fret. You can still make mozzie using store-bought milk! Just be sure to not use ultra-pasteurized or high-heat pasteurized milk, as all the "good stuff" has been killed. <br />
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<h3>
The Ingredients~</h3>
2 gallons of cold milk (Use raw, whole or 2 %)<br />
citric acid<br />
*liquid rennet (see below)<br />
filtered water<br />
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<h3>
The Process~</h3>
Pour milk into a large pot. Mix together 2-1/2 t. of citric acid (which can be found in any health food section or sprouting section of a store) with 1/4 cup filtered water until citric acid is dissolved. Pour citric acid into the milk and stir with a long-handled wooden spoon for about 2 minutes.<br />
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Begin to heat milk on medium low to 88*F, stirring gently. This could take up to 20 minutes.<br />
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Use a dairy or digital thermometer to determine the temperature. (Stir well before reading so the heat will be evenly distributed throughout the milk.)<br />
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Once 88*F. has been reached, turn off the stove. <br />
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Mix 1/8 t. liquid rennet with 1/4 cup water. Add the rennet solution to the warmed milk, stirring for 15-20 seconds. Set a timer for 30 minutes.<br />
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Then, walk away. Seriously. Take a shower. Call your mom. Sneak into your secret chocolate stash, or read a book. Just don't come back and stir the pot. You'll have to trust me on this one. After 30 minutes, the milk should look like a large pot of tofu. But better.<br />
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Using a long knife, cut through the curd (all the way down) into 1-inch strips. After that is done, do the same crossways. Like this: #<br />
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Let this sit for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, turn the burner on to medium. Stir, without mixing, to keep the curds from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Put your spoon straight down into the curds and lift up. <br />
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Once the curds have reached 108*F. (this won't take long since they are already warm), turn off the heat. Let the solution sit for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. <br />
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Drain the curds in a colander for 15 minutes. My picture didn't turn out, but I set the colander in a large bowl and drained the whey into that for my pigs. They LOVE the whey! (Chickens love it too!) While the cheese is draining, mix 1/2 gallon of water with 1/2 cup of fine sea salt and heat to boiling. You can use the same pot that the cheese was in without washing it.<br />
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At the end of 15 minutes, cut the cheese (which resembles a big, hot blob of goo) into strips.<br />
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Dump the strips into a large bowl and add half of the boiling saltwater. Stir with wooden forks or spoons for about 10 minutes. After 5, drain the water off and add the other half of the saltwater. This is the one time where playing with your food is a good thing, so stretch, pull, tug, and swirl away. <br />
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Drain the cheese into the colander to start kneading it. It will be extremely hot, so use the wooden forks/spoons until cool enough to handle. This will get all the water out of the cheese.<br />
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As soon as you're able, turn the cheese out onto a counter/cutting board and knead by hand. You will want to stretch and pull this to allow any water bubbles to escape. I fold the cheese over and into itself, kind of like shaping loaves of bread. Remember, that as the cheese cools, it will become more difficult to shape the cheese, so work quickly. When I'm done, I place the still-warm cheese into a Pyrex loaf pan and cover it with a piece of wax paper and a lid.<br />
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Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. <br />
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This recipe makes approximately 2 pounds of fresh mozzarella cheese that is solid enough to be grated or sliced. If you won't use it all up within a week, mozzarella can be frozen for up to 2 months if wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer bag.<br />
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<em>Not that cheese has EVER lasted more than 2 days in our house</em>.☺<br />
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*Rennet can be found in most health food stores or online. You can use either the calf rennet, made from the lining of a calf's stomach (ew.) or vegetable rennet, which is made from a type of mold.<br />
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This post is linked to the <a href="http://newlifeonahomestead.com/2012/10/homestead-barn-hop-84/">Homestead Barn Hop</a>, <a href="http://fresh-eggs-daily.blogspot.com/2012/10/farm-girl-blog-fest-6.html">The Farmgirl Blog Fest</a>, and <a href="http://deborahjeansdandelionhouse.blogspot.com/2012/10/farmgirl-friday-blog-hop-80.html">Farmgirl Friday Blog Hop.</a>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-54282376023706814162012-10-11T16:13:00.001-07:002012-10-11T16:13:30.427-07:00Genetic Roulette~The MovieIt isn't very often that I post links to youtube videos or movie trailers. In fact, I think this is a first.<br />
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That should tell you just how important I think this movie is. <a href="http://geneticroulettemovie.com/">Genetic Roulette</a> is free for viewing for 1 week. And it should not be missed. <br />
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I am pretty passionate (that's a nice term for it) about the food our family eats. While we are in no way perfect with our food, <strong><em>we are aware</em></strong>. Which is what this video helps to do. To educate us on the effects of genetically modified foods. (And there are many.) <a href="http://geneticroulettemovie.com/">Genetic Roulette</a> explains it in a way that the whole family can understand.<br />
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And it is a start to opening the eyes of the ones who haven't wanted to know.<br />
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Right now, California is trying to pass a GMO labeling law. If passed, this will set the stage for many other states to pass their own labeling laws. The truth is, I believe that real food should not be called "organic". I believe that farmers/companies should NOT have to pay big $$$ to say their food has no added chemicals. It should just be called <strong>food</strong>. Period. But...if food is not what it appears to be, it needs to be labeled. And those chemically dependent companies need to pay for that. <strong>Because we have a right to know.</strong> I would no more offer my children a drink of turpentine than I would knowingly allow them to eat an ear of genetically modified corn, pumped full of Bt. And since it may be more difficult to convince the GMO companies (Monsanto) to put a <em>skull and crossbones</em> on their products, a label will have to do.<br />
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For now.<br />
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Please spend some time with your family this weekend and watch this movie. Then make whatever changes necessary to keep genetically modified foods out of your home. After watching the movie, you'll understand my <em>passion</em> and why this is just too important to dismiss.<br />
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<a href="http://geneticroulettemovie.com/">Genetic Roulette~The Gamble of our Lives</a><br />
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Don't forget to pop some non-GMO corn first...☺<br />
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-32055279351408165052012-10-09T17:59:00.000-07:002012-10-09T17:59:08.570-07:00Gluten-free Spiced Oatmeal Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now that the weather has cooled, it's time to get back in the kitchen and start baking again. Baking has taken on a new set of challenges since my gluten allergy was diagnosed, but it is still one of my favorite things to do. One of the cookies that I have loved since I was a kid, is oatmeal cookies with raisins and cinnamon. Whenever I think of fall baking, I can't help but think of oatmeal cookies. My kids say they smell like an expensive candle.<br />
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I think they smell like Autumn.<br />
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And after a little tweaking of an old family recipe, I can do more than just smell them.<br />
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I can eat them too!☺<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">~Spiced Oatmeal Cookies~</span></strong></div>
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<strong>~The Players~</strong></div>
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*use organic, if possible*</div>
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<em>1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened</em></div>
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<em>1/2 cup organic shortening (Tropical Traditions or Spectrum~but not Crisco!)</em></div>
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<em>1 cup packed light brown sugar</em></div>
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<em>1/2 cup white sugar</em></div>
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<em>2 eggs, lightly beaten</em></div>
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<em>1 t. pure vanilla extract</em></div>
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<em>1-1/2 cups *gluten-free flour blend (*see below)</em></div>
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<em>3/4 t. xanthan gum</em></div>
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<em>1 t. baking soda</em></div>
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<em>1 t. ground cinnamon</em></div>
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<em>1/2 t. ground cloves</em></div>
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<em>1/2 t. sea salt</em></div>
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<em>3 cups gluten-free rolled oats (I use Bob's Redmill)</em></div>
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<em>1 cup organic raisins</em></div>
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<em>1/2 cup chopped walnuts</em></div>
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Preheat oven to 350F.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdGPkVmxXnyttqSNZtQcJaFhdkaVarPc5ZRHCHlJ4cvxNJCbqaKwDV3_yXx4-SHyNqDRkXMJ7gRtnM4w_QC4N0_tkHIBigN-LkF2W2w7V3DuwHDW8qrT8QdzVqWOM2_3loKZ-Qh5zvkU98/s1600/102_8303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdGPkVmxXnyttqSNZtQcJaFhdkaVarPc5ZRHCHlJ4cvxNJCbqaKwDV3_yXx4-SHyNqDRkXMJ7gRtnM4w_QC4N0_tkHIBigN-LkF2W2w7V3DuwHDW8qrT8QdzVqWOM2_3loKZ-Qh5zvkU98/s320/102_8303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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In a large bowl, cream together the butter and shortening. Add the sugars and mix well. With the mixer still running on low, add the eggs and vanilla; mix until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.</div>
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In a separate bowl, sift together the flour blend, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter/sugar mix, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.</div>
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Stir in the raisins and nuts until well incorporated.</div>
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Drop by rounded teaspoon onto a parchment lined cookie sheet or a baking stone. (LOVE my baking stone!) Bake for 10-12 minutes until a light golden brown. (I found with a baking sheet I needed the full 12 minutes.) Do not over bake! Let them cool on the cookie sheet/baking stone for several minutes before removing and placing on a wire rack.</div>
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Pour yourself a glass of cold milk (or coffee!), grab a favorite book, and <strong>enjoy</strong> all that Autumn has to offer. <br />
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Especially the cookies.☺</div>
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*Gluten-free flour blend: 1 cup brown or white rice flour</div>
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2/3 cup sorghum flour</div>
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1/3 cup tapioca flour/starch</div>
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Sift together. Store in a sealed container.</div>
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Makes 2 cups GF flour.</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-46941573947691080452012-10-07T19:51:00.000-07:002012-10-07T19:51:24.400-07:00a day, or two, in the life...Please excuse my absence of late, things around the homestead are hoppin'! And mooing. And oinking. And...well, pictures sometimes speak louder than words. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzKkd5tkYWf2cgS5BUI4-FGL6Dd3isIBbseXbfHw9oHatVoIz4EpPvvR3j8FKLGL8k-9OWNBhyLb4D_le9zYUiKKjaRXe3QB8RNzP7FToiTc1iFs9BsHqA0-qaCVh_EioO9ZjQBDfKZJ9w/s1600/102_8269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzKkd5tkYWf2cgS5BUI4-FGL6Dd3isIBbseXbfHw9oHatVoIz4EpPvvR3j8FKLGL8k-9OWNBhyLb4D_le9zYUiKKjaRXe3QB8RNzP7FToiTc1iFs9BsHqA0-qaCVh_EioO9ZjQBDfKZJ9w/s320/102_8269.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The corn not only grew taller than me, it even produced edible ears!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix550h92ifcCCkv10qq3dIrKj0jEgL9lTWGBRHqf1Y_0e-atATZZVLOELwSdOncd1IJJuMruiO4A2an06YkfjbhVIqo1p2JGkLCMsEf7cZrsjRY-hM_WZ2PiXxGW3StvZm9z1QPlQBQwNf/s1600/102_8274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix550h92ifcCCkv10qq3dIrKj0jEgL9lTWGBRHqf1Y_0e-atATZZVLOELwSdOncd1IJJuMruiO4A2an06YkfjbhVIqo1p2JGkLCMsEf7cZrsjRY-hM_WZ2PiXxGW3StvZm9z1QPlQBQwNf/s320/102_8274.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Since this was our first successful corn harvest, everyone wanted to participate in the harvest.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1T28DWmjZJMwnXSPGS4mfb0PcwonJdicKfpdNYyFmgxynPDqjuUdDCqsI297SAnbsNUjRMh22UGR8SehHyW5fNaO00rvWJFKMn2-WvNkRpZgkYcgh3DqbYkzQwH2oheEmLGvrjQQB63P/s1600/102_8279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1T28DWmjZJMwnXSPGS4mfb0PcwonJdicKfpdNYyFmgxynPDqjuUdDCqsI297SAnbsNUjRMh22UGR8SehHyW5fNaO00rvWJFKMn2-WvNkRpZgkYcgh3DqbYkzQwH2oheEmLGvrjQQB63P/s320/102_8279.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shucking took much longer than the plucking...er, harvesting.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFT9eJFxny0P0nidDmPqjl3Ed6WOt8xfNsUqbGrKuLghOVHOgSeoSfGS6BqT3grtHHsn-M-RFsZnAAo-rH4Z-1XWKXK5IruoFycro50XURXZ-10eAMS3cXAEAqJbamtKYVhKXzMUhVFnqG/s1600/102_8286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFT9eJFxny0P0nidDmPqjl3Ed6WOt8xfNsUqbGrKuLghOVHOgSeoSfGS6BqT3grtHHsn-M-RFsZnAAo-rH4Z-1XWKXK5IruoFycro50XURXZ-10eAMS3cXAEAqJbamtKYVhKXzMUhVFnqG/s320/102_8286.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heather (& Mandie who was on her mandatory union break), washed the corn.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlEX72Vw8xWnTnPHpECvt7G_CxBNJXKI2nXulvADFVMc5z2DtD-TPa9vWkUVPFi2yPU07wCf9ZHtbqeH8Cn3cn56SHOmdNHzHGxdMQN0WA9OtazSrO-zC0C5GUVu15xUGhnVYhdYI0O5T/s1600/102_8281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlEX72Vw8xWnTnPHpECvt7G_CxBNJXKI2nXulvADFVMc5z2DtD-TPa9vWkUVPFi2yPU07wCf9ZHtbqeH8Cn3cn56SHOmdNHzHGxdMQN0WA9OtazSrO-zC0C5GUVu15xUGhnVYhdYI0O5T/s320/102_8281.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mister and son #1 showing off their knife skills. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjbz4OVL9Gvd-a_biXiWBc_xNU1CvH0MauycrFD9mcLOX1UAzqxoXTUbNXJ2GCksi9Ec0bJYzVqIufO-LOFpgX_VK5pSqmWsch0qBPi2ascnjvzaRtnFI1nfPJr5JcGsxZWbEG5e4fFXI/s1600/102_8283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjbz4OVL9Gvd-a_biXiWBc_xNU1CvH0MauycrFD9mcLOX1UAzqxoXTUbNXJ2GCksi9Ec0bJYzVqIufO-LOFpgX_VK5pSqmWsch0qBPi2ascnjvzaRtnFI1nfPJr5JcGsxZWbEG5e4fFXI/s320/102_8283.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh cream</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdusyMkzybI-uTP4870sQp1zVn3RAytvUMSBwT9-S3GmRVw911PRTmhd3S01z_1BPUL7bRnLLaTiyvEjcXWErLRRfBUOyPR7QuERStjVoA_tCSsE-IE5NV_e4fP2eliWG-gT47w085MRi/s1600/102_8284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdusyMkzybI-uTP4870sQp1zVn3RAytvUMSBwT9-S3GmRVw911PRTmhd3S01z_1BPUL7bRnLLaTiyvEjcXWErLRRfBUOyPR7QuERStjVoA_tCSsE-IE5NV_e4fP2eliWG-gT47w085MRi/s320/102_8284.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys are becoming expert butter-makers.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNsAHKmzHx_tw-JgeysRu_fi0DV4aSfoTA7lyDo94MIlcUQKeS1UnJYVctwXFOVAmRoIrr36mn29-JH_pR3YFBfn8gulstbzgbkyPumAc8Fk3_2soMJTcAR4aGMer6LYjGoYjaUkC7c7_/s1600/102_8289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNsAHKmzHx_tw-JgeysRu_fi0DV4aSfoTA7lyDo94MIlcUQKeS1UnJYVctwXFOVAmRoIrr36mn29-JH_pR3YFBfn8gulstbzgbkyPumAc8Fk3_2soMJTcAR4aGMer6LYjGoYjaUkC7c7_/s320/102_8289.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 cup of fresh buttah, ready for the freezer!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SzaumY1yuW5oA7lMV99VUVKLMLFL8MGagXEIjELZJb2dRA788Icza0EIkJhS7OPvw8sfky5D7guAxKYP_IpZTe-muLEWQrpm5EsTm_j33G8s9chLfUes6_R2UdBLjp__84AcyD8X45P7/s1600/102_8291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SzaumY1yuW5oA7lMV99VUVKLMLFL8MGagXEIjELZJb2dRA788Icza0EIkJhS7OPvw8sfky5D7guAxKYP_IpZTe-muLEWQrpm5EsTm_j33G8s9chLfUes6_R2UdBLjp__84AcyD8X45P7/s320/102_8291.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Anaheim peppers did great this year~I can already taste the enchiladas.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wUdqPUBHTnfqxObVJH0GC6N0Cn5-pVx36mn0AMfdvkrxFhK_EpmAneO2-HAwVYm0yuFcydyfPBLzRLkGQ-2jjL21a07lyEN-j1nSuh8BcuGcoammVAcTvoPEZNWoYnDxW90OX8_kJm-f/s1600/102_8293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wUdqPUBHTnfqxObVJH0GC6N0Cn5-pVx36mn0AMfdvkrxFhK_EpmAneO2-HAwVYm0yuFcydyfPBLzRLkGQ-2jjL21a07lyEN-j1nSuh8BcuGcoammVAcTvoPEZNWoYnDxW90OX8_kJm-f/s320/102_8293.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grapes from my brother-in-law's vines~We picked 3 boxes that are currently being made into <strong><em>adult</em></strong> grape juice.</td></tr>
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And finally, a bittersweet good-bye. My son-in-law took a youth pastor position about 250 miles away. After having my precious daughter and her family with us for a year, 250 miles seems like another continent away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxUb6ypj8I-_xt8LGm5424nFFGcuJzzyv5amwD2tXGbzrVNgdYXOSzt7sxXfyxEpOTivO_Zj2EHKi6y5aGniIsjMls1wFCB4R_K4qdPmuyxd7PG0TjY-ZNAaOD8oS9o9E0ZqzFz8nGoAS/s1600/102_8268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxUb6ypj8I-_xt8LGm5424nFFGcuJzzyv5amwD2tXGbzrVNgdYXOSzt7sxXfyxEpOTivO_Zj2EHKi6y5aGniIsjMls1wFCB4R_K4qdPmuyxd7PG0TjY-ZNAaOD8oS9o9E0ZqzFz8nGoAS/s320/102_8268.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Madison enjoying her chocolate milkshake in her new town.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3XB8mC2D2NGvGNyIJ_sbmX9K61pMjoz0jIrn-dNV3TaD5BJEIVifW6Af6tf0HkjK98VZA7NFFwcDoEw463JppnIUxOCyvH8ZnqKZlMOXm5VzoFKUnvyait7zy4Nddr2JBP74qVcUC7C1/s1600/102_8266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3XB8mC2D2NGvGNyIJ_sbmX9K61pMjoz0jIrn-dNV3TaD5BJEIVifW6Af6tf0HkjK98VZA7NFFwcDoEw463JppnIUxOCyvH8ZnqKZlMOXm5VzoFKUnvyait7zy4Nddr2JBP74qVcUC7C1/s320/102_8266.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emmie showing me her "ed cawler".</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Even Frank thinks it's way too quiet around here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl606BVFrq7yp768QUwGqha596oNHn4cEMgIOcZjiHypcRaotA2QkqVA-AiZpaZ1y1d2C_FWf8puauh2WGPWW_sQfSGtqiYdloz2qdCQaz7CE7RvKKb_tHVDDyxM1XwPqZtXQJ0BmX9fTi/s1600/102_8299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl606BVFrq7yp768QUwGqha596oNHn4cEMgIOcZjiHypcRaotA2QkqVA-AiZpaZ1y1d2C_FWf8puauh2WGPWW_sQfSGtqiYdloz2qdCQaz7CE7RvKKb_tHVDDyxM1XwPqZtXQJ0BmX9fTi/s320/102_8299.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We're both waiting for Christmas.☺Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-59077533108118259592012-09-25T20:58:00.000-07:002012-09-25T20:58:52.489-07:00Decadent Chocolate Mocha PuddingIn the past week, I've watched the sun rise and set...all from the back end of a cow. I thought with the birth of Maggie Moo, my days <em>facing south</em> were over. But, since the whole purpose of a having a Jersey was for the <em>liquid white gold</em> she would produce, I've spent more time hunched over a cow (and under) than standing upright. <br />
<br />
While researching "how to milk" articles, I stumbled across one common statement. <strong>Cow's like to be milked.</strong> <br />
<br />
Sure they do.<br />
<br />
Someone forgot to inform Tilly of this little known-only-to-delusional-farmers-fact.<br />
<br />
I don't know if Tilly enjoys the slurping sound of a metal machine or not, but I know that she does not enjoy standing in a stanchion. She does not enjoy having her udders washed, even though the water is warm, nor does she like the towel buffing I give her after her mini-bath. The whole process tends to loosen Tilly's bowels and make our usually mild mannered milk cow a little testy. And there never seems to be enough molasses covered grain to soften her mood or stop up her back end.<br />
<br />
So, why do I do this twice a day?<br />
<br />
Two words. Pud-ding. With all the milk we've been getting, I've only had one thing on my mind. Pudding. And because I'm a sleep-deprived milk-maid with a bruised and slightly smelly ego, it must be chocolate with a coffee twist.<br />
<br />
And that is why I'll be watching the sun rise again tomorrow. <br />
<br />
From the underside of a somewhat cranky cow.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSB1yp30bymPdun8hH9hxw-LQpudLhZz2zLBinaTwr3j1CsjmgFDGdhIo5NhSZdgTUjPEv_g5Ghg65OrVkK8gYVKewXSvNPcWZ0KsDOvueAkct6iWs0Hc4Zlolf9MQRAoNZ-1d2Tzyedzz/s1600/102_8225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSB1yp30bymPdun8hH9hxw-LQpudLhZz2zLBinaTwr3j1CsjmgFDGdhIo5NhSZdgTUjPEv_g5Ghg65OrVkK8gYVKewXSvNPcWZ0KsDOvueAkct6iWs0Hc4Zlolf9MQRAoNZ-1d2Tzyedzz/s320/102_8225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
~Chocolate Pudding~</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~The players~</div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
2 large egg yolks</div>
<div align="center">
1/2 cup sugar</div>
<div align="center">
3 Tb. cornstarch</div>
<div align="center">
2 cups whole milk</div>
<div align="center">
1 cup half & half, or light cream</div>
<div align="center">
5 oz. bittersweet chocolate (I like Trader Joe's 70%)</div>
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1 Tb. instant espresso powder</div>
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pinch of salt</div>
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1 Tb. pure vanilla extract</div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar and cornstarch. They won't whisk smoothly, but that's okay.</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDHqc-tVT4LJQbeBfg6hLyAWoUvJjGEU0UbQjgTy5Fu5SBuoGrZN6jjMSrizJvIaTDvNubmKpKr2vy3DEP6a4ve8ZUeH8I9-2lmuzSSZlK7Eveg_Rw376dioU-5usvv6ik_9RZtGtwqAJ/s1600/102_8221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDHqc-tVT4LJQbeBfg6hLyAWoUvJjGEU0UbQjgTy5Fu5SBuoGrZN6jjMSrizJvIaTDvNubmKpKr2vy3DEP6a4ve8ZUeH8I9-2lmuzSSZlK7Eveg_Rw376dioU-5usvv6ik_9RZtGtwqAJ/s320/102_8221.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfoqK0OA8QB4YrqRQjvbu6sB2cp0awW1TnkoqarGPfZ5_Ecqi6O42dKLBXxJoJRW7CQZW1ogR2l4FsQFBehejfE2KZWUH04jxXHL3vGjH_4op_5vB98LzYecCbxJr-rIdaBC9Qpin18hn/s1600/102_8220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfoqK0OA8QB4YrqRQjvbu6sB2cp0awW1TnkoqarGPfZ5_Ecqi6O42dKLBXxJoJRW7CQZW1ogR2l4FsQFBehejfE2KZWUH04jxXHL3vGjH_4op_5vB98LzYecCbxJr-rIdaBC9Qpin18hn/s320/102_8220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Combine the milk, cream or half & half, chocolate, espresso powder, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat and stir until the chocolate melts. Slowly pour the chocolate mixture in the egg mixture, whisking constantly. (You may need a little help here.) </div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4TUsVmY8_MZwn2Dse_DMR_eOWjtm2NAurvhV9mNfEewpCHdmoJulZh8mKAdboSIBD1LmY2MfcN7nhDPgZ4wmzrWac1IaPuU_HsLuqaeQgxeqOkubx6Del9kc_FlzBSFOs1Oq7_MptQN_O/s1600/102_8224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4TUsVmY8_MZwn2Dse_DMR_eOWjtm2NAurvhV9mNfEewpCHdmoJulZh8mKAdboSIBD1LmY2MfcN7nhDPgZ4wmzrWac1IaPuU_HsLuqaeQgxeqOkubx6Del9kc_FlzBSFOs1Oq7_MptQN_O/s320/102_8224.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pour back into the saucepan and place back on medium heat. Continue to whisk until the lumps are gone. Cook until thick, 12-15 minutes. Remove from heat and pour back into bowl, or if you like, individual dessert cups/ramekins. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.</div>
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Serve with freshly whipped cream.</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-69405306486347657782012-09-24T17:29:00.002-07:002012-09-24T17:29:35.238-07:00Menu Monday~9/24<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yKbrecHwH5ct6ZCjvdCOnVJJjg5zcJsxk3sMco_TU-s0GA65qmgsyO4S2-lq1Egh1adcw5ERpOcF528AMoWYdvlmO16rimg8Sj3-YkTvX9-cxBcfamkkAxSfc6y1plSzGilhS_XKTpTO/s1600/mpmfall1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yKbrecHwH5ct6ZCjvdCOnVJJjg5zcJsxk3sMco_TU-s0GA65qmgsyO4S2-lq1Egh1adcw5ERpOcF528AMoWYdvlmO16rimg8Sj3-YkTvX9-cxBcfamkkAxSfc6y1plSzGilhS_XKTpTO/s1600/mpmfall1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's that time of year again. You know the one. When everything is right with the world. Okay, that might be stretchin' it a bit, but all is right in <strong>my</strong> world. The leaves are starting to change, the temperatures are less than sweltering, and I have soup on the brain. <br />
<br />
Not literally. Although, there are times...<br />
<br />
Now that Tilly has her own milk assembly line (of one), I'm thinking chowders. And cheese. And sour cream. And pudding. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTPKqZ1zBklREwTmXWaSTDvlueioawYhB7gpdBSB1TCrm-DdzrBYl_ncUhV4oSD9q0epbmqOomYGz2IrL_y5hwsNudRuD6mX2pn43Fd1DfiL9FcpyKppf4Ur5oP58stkPyUPAosIYlQ2U/s1600/102_8219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTPKqZ1zBklREwTmXWaSTDvlueioawYhB7gpdBSB1TCrm-DdzrBYl_ncUhV4oSD9q0epbmqOomYGz2IrL_y5hwsNudRuD6mX2pn43Fd1DfiL9FcpyKppf4Ur5oP58stkPyUPAosIYlQ2U/s320/102_8219.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning milk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<em>Lots of pudding</em>.<br />
<br />
Here's what else is cookin' this week...<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
~Monday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/04/thai-cashew-chicken.html">Thai Cashew Chicken</a>, Jasmine Rice, Sweet & Sour Coleslaw (recipe coming)</div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
~Tuesday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/03/creamy-potato-corn-chowder.html">Potato Corn Chowder</a>, Kefir Cornbread (new)</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Wednesday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://joyinmykitchen.blogspot.com/2008/12/three-cheese-ziti.html">3 Cheese Baked Ziti</a>, Garden Salad with <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/05/kefir-ranch-dressing.html">Kefir Ranch Dressing</a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Thursday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/01/salmon-patties.html">Salmon Patties</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/11/fancy-schmancy-mac-cheese.html">Macaroni & Cheese</a>, Garlicky Green Beans</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Friday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/chickpea-fritters-and-new-giveaway.html">Chickpea Fritters</a>, Meatloaf, Garden Salad with Bleu Cheese Dressing</div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
~Saturday~</div>
<div align="center">
Venison Steak, Mashed Potatoes with Milk Gravy, Peas</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Sunday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/11/toe-warmin-chili.html">Toe Warmin' Chili</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/04/gluten-free-buttermilk-cornbread.html">Buttermilk Cornbread</a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Breakfast Choices: Kefir smoothies, eggs & toast, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spiced Granola</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/05/pennsylvania-dutch-baked-oatmeal.html">Pennsylvania Dutch Baked Oatmeal</a>, <a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Apple_Cinnamon_Oatmeal">Crockpot Apple Pie Oats</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/10/simple-soaked-oatmeal.html">Simple Soaked Oatmeal</a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Lunches: Leftovers, Meatloaf Sandwiches, Nachos</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And pudding. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strike>Maybe</strike> <em>Definitely</em> <em>twice</em>.☺</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This post is linked to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/09/menu-plan-monday-september-2412.html">Menu Mondays</a> at I'm an Organizing Junkie.</div>
<br />
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-67074213526313180352012-09-20T20:55:00.000-07:002012-09-20T20:55:28.607-07:00September Busyness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_OFw8cjbNVPrXWl-f9YdH_ZwBLii8d4FeWtu-v15YP_SqwQaw_szvvX5I-An2R-d2jQ6bIve6UHUzhl5ymHn2M9P_Aff4tP_wS0U63CpXBAlMogUF0LxIz2faeLrWnsxY8mEyfLI2l2-/s1600/102_8191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_OFw8cjbNVPrXWl-f9YdH_ZwBLii8d4FeWtu-v15YP_SqwQaw_szvvX5I-An2R-d2jQ6bIve6UHUzhl5ymHn2M9P_Aff4tP_wS0U63CpXBAlMogUF0LxIz2faeLrWnsxY8mEyfLI2l2-/s320/102_8191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Earlier in the week, I shared a couple of pictures of <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/09/menu-monday916.html">my canned goods pantry</a>. Those were only a partial picture of the foods we've put up. The jars that didn't fit in the cupboards are now stacked all over the garage. <br />
<br />
Where the exercise equipment is supposed to be.<br />
<br />
But it's not, because it's canning season. <br />
<br />
Ya. That's it.<br />
<br />
Canning isn't the only thing that's been happening around here though. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gJ-K8qp3u_kBF1WL26DTNS4K9i1ObZlhyphenhyphenTuGZ5zS1-kAxOnWzUbQcJvIni5-1_XahnuMdyDSAOpNI9pVGjM7Ckj4JVE5jFzL64L7ufd8ksg5CXR0kz1AnqQhNe98do7hKxGn3pHam6NR/s1600/102_8179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gJ-K8qp3u_kBF1WL26DTNS4K9i1ObZlhyphenhyphenTuGZ5zS1-kAxOnWzUbQcJvIni5-1_XahnuMdyDSAOpNI9pVGjM7Ckj4JVE5jFzL64L7ufd8ksg5CXR0kz1AnqQhNe98do7hKxGn3pHam6NR/s320/102_8179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After a chilly couple of nights, I decided to make a mini hoop-house to protect my pepper plants. How difficult could it be? After all, Pinterest makes it looks so easy. With some PVC pipe, painter's plastic, and clamps in hand, I was ready to go. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKLSvC7jtCaJSB0SqTk1IZnGgKm2iaUgpUa4iPxuUuYd60vkgl5jhACiJUqAVRbiX-qFN0ts07opjOm2rDGKTczoQmda698-elSLVGdN6P7UteI1m82-X4_l8KH2vk4U7cCuS5KX6wTVfu/s1600/102_8192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKLSvC7jtCaJSB0SqTk1IZnGgKm2iaUgpUa4iPxuUuYd60vkgl5jhACiJUqAVRbiX-qFN0ts07opjOm2rDGKTczoQmda698-elSLVGdN6P7UteI1m82-X4_l8KH2vk4U7cCuS5KX6wTVfu/s320/102_8192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Note to self: When erecting a structure <em>on a hill</em>, make the necessary adjustments <em><strong>before</strong></em> putting the plastic on.<br />
<br />
Better yet, make the adjustments before allowing the Mister to see it. <br />
<br />
His to-do list just got longer.☺<br />
<br />
We finished butchering the last half of our 57 meat chickens. My Mister wants you to know that he can remove the neck, and eviscerate an entire chicken in 1 minute, 34 seconds. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1T9vO0_PDW-azLUKFZmsT4fxkgXXTrSH8isZ-MDXxxqaTNkgw1Wiln8qYL-wgCN4UJjiVLct5hEw5UnFRT-axh5k-3wcL9TMx1xuuDiKsjpUMeCbSopDSdeq2vJ2WAUNwXvz5ehGFrlau/s1600/102_8193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1T9vO0_PDW-azLUKFZmsT4fxkgXXTrSH8isZ-MDXxxqaTNkgw1Wiln8qYL-wgCN4UJjiVLct5hEw5UnFRT-axh5k-3wcL9TMx1xuuDiKsjpUMeCbSopDSdeq2vJ2WAUNwXvz5ehGFrlau/s320/102_8193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Because <em>everything</em> is a competition when there are 6 males in charge of the butchering.<br />
<br />
Our birds averaged out around 7.5 lbs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6uVqiQCEeFXwjwKx-ApUagB8OpLIcAjSt-tvBXVy6OOGTPSP-MGO9JqwVjAlxvB9Qng2alB4pASxp3Edh5hje9dZjw0IJAT9TM_2i5bmej056u7K-oDGnK4KKmJKQiUsr3tvUtSm58Co/s1600/102_8172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6uVqiQCEeFXwjwKx-ApUagB8OpLIcAjSt-tvBXVy6OOGTPSP-MGO9JqwVjAlxvB9Qng2alB4pASxp3Edh5hje9dZjw0IJAT9TM_2i5bmej056u7K-oDGnK4KKmJKQiUsr3tvUtSm58Co/s320/102_8172.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Which is about 1.5 lbs. more than the crock pot can handle.<br />
<br />
I finished processing the feet for stock. Do you know how many feet come from 26 chickens?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGELZhv1RkoFTly6uxMEn8KKcmen5jSntwd0mK1fP3UsO_586pd8FeMmzQIv3oN4PLortwmLI7Gpx_y3sV0KkbE9Az4mTCvm-pz3la-opikXt_dgZxlr7NQDhxa802651llcBYe7iU7-qw/s1600/102_8049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGELZhv1RkoFTly6uxMEn8KKcmen5jSntwd0mK1fP3UsO_586pd8FeMmzQIv3oN4PLortwmLI7Gpx_y3sV0KkbE9Az4mTCvm-pz3la-opikXt_dgZxlr7NQDhxa802651llcBYe7iU7-qw/s320/102_8049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Like, a million. Or 52. Somewhere around there. Honestly, I lost track after 3. </div>
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After hand-milking Tilly for a few days, the Mister and I decided that we weren't cut out for hand-milking. (Really, we're not cut out for getting slapped in the face every 20 seconds with a tail that has the ability to <em>scalp</em> someone who isn't paying attention.) So we scoured the country until we found a machine. Thankfully, we found it in the next county. You know, with gas prices being what they are and all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0N17S8JJVRYZ-0-tUe7twJjf6uczktECvbp0f15h0GXR0cyUKSUz9pNhZCea1URWWUccMe64ov_37xJrWnFMgwNZQJ5Pxcl3F64mDvnQjIK66ytYVkaz0ZPM-XIzqDN_K54-jgo8v34-/s1600/102_8185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0N17S8JJVRYZ-0-tUe7twJjf6uczktECvbp0f15h0GXR0cyUKSUz9pNhZCea1URWWUccMe64ov_37xJrWnFMgwNZQJ5Pxcl3F64mDvnQjIK66ytYVkaz0ZPM-XIzqDN_K54-jgo8v34-/s320/102_8185.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Milk cows don't really care <em>how</em> they get milked, they're just in it for the grain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qan96wbyf4tsUutAVznNGhX-13r6aBy1YtCIB6QYec-k4fC8Bsh5yL1TZle201dQ4o3aMBfw1EW7saNMxlurrBkB_v8Q4Dwpp-WPEN3VyUyGqJcY5s7GliO706EZQRQ4Y8LHylfmGQP-/s1600/102_8187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qan96wbyf4tsUutAVznNGhX-13r6aBy1YtCIB6QYec-k4fC8Bsh5yL1TZle201dQ4o3aMBfw1EW7saNMxlurrBkB_v8Q4Dwpp-WPEN3VyUyGqJcY5s7GliO706EZQRQ4Y8LHylfmGQP-/s320/102_8187.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course, we're only in it for the milk, so it's a fair trade.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijY4Hd_PxnPYZjlEi7wFwx9_mTgGOOEe3MnkLtbFNPiD8-Z4TR7sGV6ffUXbW0LCeAf6bNeMUqi7sqemkUdbu9X2x1pdUgB8VolJ3BK-AefG-hsbhfrlIKyzCtM1O_NNTFf0Tsyg1GwoDp/s1600/102_8188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijY4Hd_PxnPYZjlEi7wFwx9_mTgGOOEe3MnkLtbFNPiD8-Z4TR7sGV6ffUXbW0LCeAf6bNeMUqi7sqemkUdbu9X2x1pdUgB8VolJ3BK-AefG-hsbhfrlIKyzCtM1O_NNTFf0Tsyg1GwoDp/s320/102_8188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It seems we're not the only ones who've been busy. After returning from <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/lessons-from-our-first-fair.html">her big adventures in the city</a>, Ethel was ready to settle down and start a family.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHl56SshZWi-aoZSJG6izfyP7svIH-C4rJbR_fe1vvsocrtX7_AWg7DmVcrdtzcBy7YwmMVPdUjO2LiqfRoSTxm2SuLWvjP-NgjUgGt8x0jr4yqcojUuplPFnuLmmCX-NMPch9PY-dVCbr/s1600/102_8190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHl56SshZWi-aoZSJG6izfyP7svIH-C4rJbR_fe1vvsocrtX7_AWg7DmVcrdtzcBy7YwmMVPdUjO2LiqfRoSTxm2SuLWvjP-NgjUgGt8x0jr4yqcojUuplPFnuLmmCX-NMPch9PY-dVCbr/s320/102_8190.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We're still unsure if Bourbon Red Fred is the baby daddy though.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89Z-6OqZcRBzTuEj0r6-NsjxcsDAQ0Rvhq1GX21uhY1-ejYJMcZzFqx_Hbn7PCkaxI2X8LbmbJYj937d4vdwJ4KzrpTMy6qdRbbR8lP7BPPXqD_kffAiQ60FKyTbNdK6d4aEHN5iW8g_T/s1600/102_7841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89Z-6OqZcRBzTuEj0r6-NsjxcsDAQ0Rvhq1GX21uhY1-ejYJMcZzFqx_Hbn7PCkaxI2X8LbmbJYj937d4vdwJ4KzrpTMy6qdRbbR8lP7BPPXqD_kffAiQ60FKyTbNdK6d4aEHN5iW8g_T/s320/102_7841.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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All Emily knows is that farming...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshU9UW8zdbKEGYWn7llOuLQLOAmPKNYOnKoCZwTtlnfaPksjxd3iybsMdVKoC9I69s3U_7fdsWkBGrEcORW-W3gguuieP6mLHADQ_xjaF7x9XpTLo2_WJMlnCYI6lzuyWOeTquPn7OpFu/s1600/102_8093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshU9UW8zdbKEGYWn7llOuLQLOAmPKNYOnKoCZwTtlnfaPksjxd3iybsMdVKoC9I69s3U_7fdsWkBGrEcORW-W3gguuieP6mLHADQ_xjaF7x9XpTLo2_WJMlnCYI6lzuyWOeTquPn7OpFu/s320/102_8093.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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...is mighty hard work.☺</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-6389778618420085492012-09-17T21:29:00.000-07:002012-09-17T21:30:00.041-07:00Menu Monday~9/16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HJKageWFkbTUdAZqqdimv2Gdw0wtmv5po_SYxyOYhHpO6siCSlyJd94mCs8XNVeFKZGR4kCqwsJ2BMWqc73a6IjfS9_62mVoF_HlXSgiNiOLMqrWcbpKWuy1PSSneV_euHVT1gDI6Kyo/s1600/mealplanmonday_v2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HJKageWFkbTUdAZqqdimv2Gdw0wtmv5po_SYxyOYhHpO6siCSlyJd94mCs8XNVeFKZGR4kCqwsJ2BMWqc73a6IjfS9_62mVoF_HlXSgiNiOLMqrWcbpKWuy1PSSneV_euHVT1gDI6Kyo/s1600/mealplanmonday_v2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Apparently, it's Monday. Night, to be precise. And I'm just now figuring out our meal plan for the week. Not that we would've starved... <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1c4EXWktyOFgdSSttMvFB06W0mC8fyn14lvx7Wx2nx_5lhG5vs5srkQLoh8DuGHmZvrWXxDF3zSOkEbDdhui6ffvT6ayFhRvKLUUPkL1zO9fE8mOmjRgRg2rRc82k1h8hDou_dPNGHW5/s1600/102_8169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1c4EXWktyOFgdSSttMvFB06W0mC8fyn14lvx7Wx2nx_5lhG5vs5srkQLoh8DuGHmZvrWXxDF3zSOkEbDdhui6ffvT6ayFhRvKLUUPkL1zO9fE8mOmjRgRg2rRc82k1h8hDou_dPNGHW5/s320/102_8169.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This year's bounty. The rows are 4 jars deep.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAx7BarUMxcQkoA_sp1s-4YRkhIBR2IpjF25y5SCZxVvCBpkgyW3U2hnZ03V7puFLO1EYNc8A_uZ-xjcelUBttUxbqzaD2MH1fue0-TKFlET_csFDmGQnG_zdzXL99clwZBhNSirRJpk6w/s1600/102_8170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAx7BarUMxcQkoA_sp1s-4YRkhIBR2IpjF25y5SCZxVvCBpkgyW3U2hnZ03V7puFLO1EYNc8A_uZ-xjcelUBttUxbqzaD2MH1fue0-TKFlET_csFDmGQnG_zdzXL99clwZBhNSirRJpk6w/s320/102_8170.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bottom half is left over from last year, but the top is all new.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
...but my family <em>does</em> tend to panic a little. <br />
<br />
My daughters and I have canned well over 1,000 jars of fruit, veggies, jams, stocks, and pickles. Even though the end of canning season is in sight, we still have green beans, corn, applesauce and butter, and pumpkin butter to can. And maybe some soups. And chickens. And venison. And...<br />
<br />
I may need an intervention.<br />
<br />
Until then, here's what's cookin' this week...<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
~Sunday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spice Granola</a>, Greek yogurt</div>
<div align="center">
leftovers</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/10/chicken-tortilla-soup-kims-kornbread.html">Chicken Tortilla Soup</a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Monday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spice Granola</a>, Greek yogurt</div>
<div align="center">
leftovers</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=1554">Cold Chicken Satay Noodle Salad</a> (carried over from last week)</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Tuesday~</div>
<div align="center">
Gluten-free Raspberry Lime Muffins (new), Kefir Fruit Smoothies</div>
<div align="center">
Black Bean Quesadillas (corn tortillas, pepper jack cheese, black beans, Anaheim chiles)</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/09/zucchini-tomato-corn-casserole.html">Zucchini, Corn, Tomato Casserole</a>, Grilled Chicken</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Wednesday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2012/03/10/blueberry-lemon-baked-oatmeal-a-breakfast-fave/">Blueberry Lemon Baked Oatmeal</a></div>
<div align="center">
Sandwiches (to be decided later), tortilla chips, lacto-fermented salsa</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/01/crockpot-chinese-pepper-steak.html">Crockpot Chinese Pepper Steak</a>, brown rice, salad</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Thursday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spice Granola</a>, Greek yogurt</div>
<div align="center">
Toasted cheese sandwiches, sliced apples</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/07/chickpea-fritters-and-new-giveaway.html">Chickpea Fritters</a>, meatloaf, green salad with <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/05/kefir-ranch-dressing.html">Kefir Ranch Dressing</a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Friday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/01/banana-nut-muffinsa-true-american-love.html">GF Banana Walnut Muffins</a>, Kefir Fruit Smoothies</div>
<div align="center">
leftover meatloaf sandwiches on Bob's Redmill GF Hearty Whole Grain Bread</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://scalingbackblog.com/post/16117996741/red-lentil-coconut-soup">Red Lentil Coconut Soup</a>, Gluten free Naan Bread (new)</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
~Saturday~</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2012/08/time-saving-potato-brunch-bake.html">Potato Brunch Bake</a>, Gluten Free Blueberry/Lemon Muffins</div>
<div align="center">
Homemade Gluten Free Pizza</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
This post is linked to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/09/menu-plan-monday-sept-1712.html">Menu Monday's at I'm an Organizing Junkie</a>.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-27403151617136415622012-09-13T15:51:00.000-07:002012-09-13T15:51:03.537-07:00You Should Know...#5~Stupidity in the Store<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3dvmTGvv5-BIdvwEdJimaddMqo1FDmSQOdZVTkfENOTwCGcMLa5nj799W2sRDG47uv65YtTO6xcKx9iFNjQ2bHQzNdVMIDOxM24o6WQJJ98KD9xYpJqCPXvUfZXxJHrx0zfVvLYN-xxM/s1600/soapbox.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3dvmTGvv5-BIdvwEdJimaddMqo1FDmSQOdZVTkfENOTwCGcMLa5nj799W2sRDG47uv65YtTO6xcKx9iFNjQ2bHQzNdVMIDOxM24o6WQJJ98KD9xYpJqCPXvUfZXxJHrx0zfVvLYN-xxM/s320/soapbox.bmp" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
I hate town. Seriously. I know that town is good for some things, like, coffee and toilet paper, but if I could figure out a way to manufacture my own, I'd never leave the farm. After spending an afternoon dealing with traffic and ignorance, I needed to rant a little.<br />
<br />
For the record, pigs are very good listeners. Especially if they are snacking on expired yogurt.<br />
<br />
You know those moments where someone says something stupid and the only comeback you can come up with happens 3 hours after the incident? Well, I had several of those. On the same day.<br />
<br />
Here's what I think you should know that I would've said...<br />
<br />
...had I thought of them sooner...<br />
<br />
1. <em>"Why would anyone pay $4/lb for organic when the same apples over there are only $.99/lb.?"</em><br />
<br />
My organic $4/lb. apples are less expensive than your venti Caramel Frappuccino and have the added bonus of not making me fat. Or diabetic. <br />
<br />
2. <em>"You know, the store provides plastic bags for your produce. Then you won't have to worry about all the germs in your cart."</em><br />
<br />
Because you coughing into your hand, then touching <strong>3</strong> different heads of lettuce before finding the 1 you wanted, wasn't gross enough? I'll take my chances with the cart.<br />
<br />
3. <em>"Would you like paper or plastic?"</em><br />
<br />
What part of those <strong>10 reusable grocery bags</strong> that I hauled in do you not understand?<br />
<br />
4. <em>"Oh you should taste the red ones."</em> (I think I must have scowled at her before she continued.) "<em>They <strong>expect</strong> people to taste the grapes before they buy them. Why else would they not seal the bags?"</em> <br />
<br />
Stupid woman. That is called stealing. In every country. And every store.<br />
<br />
5.<em> "My son has been in detention twice already. I just don't know what his problem is!"</em><br />
<br />
Try looking in your cart. I think you could eliminate the problem by putting the Capt'n Crunch, and Frosted Flakes back onto the shelf. Maybe that big jug of chocolate milk will follow once it loses its friends...<br />
<br />
6. <em>"I don't eat fat."</em><br />
<br />
Sweetheart, those Oreos aren't carrots. Neither is the Haggen Das. <br />
<br />
7. <em>"...and then he told me if I wasn't willing to compromise on...."</em><br />
<br />
Let me guess. You're having a hard time sharing the space in the bed. Or the couch. Because you sure as heck aren't sharing the aisle with anyone else. <br />
<br />
8. <em>"Making my own laundry soap is just too @!#$#% expensive! And there's never any coupons for those ingredients."</em><br />
<em></em><br />
Yet you just put 2 large bottles of Tide in your cart, for a total of $34. Oh, sorry, I forgot you had a $.50 off coupon. That made it much better. Smart thinking.<br />
<br />
9. <em>"Sorry. I didn't know my coupons were for specific <strong>sizes</strong>."</em><br />
<br />
No problem. I'll just wait while the courtesy clerk goes and grabs all <strong>23</strong> of the <strong>correct</strong> items for you. I've got nothing better to do. Really. I could stand here all day.... <br />
<br />
And my very favorite from my grocery trip...<br />
<br />
10. <em>"Cows don't eat grass, stupid."</em> (Not said to me, but her friend.)<br />
<br />
This is from the generation that is going to be taking care of me in my old age.<br />
<br />
I won't even mention the car full of teenage boys who ran a stop sign, causing me to slam on my brakes and cry out, "Sweet Jesus, make it quick!" <br />
<br />
Those boys were so friendly, they gave me a <em>one-finger wave</em> out <strong>all 4</strong> of their windows. <br />
<br />
Maybe there is still hope for mankind after all...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3805828989776528313.post-16617113671177785112012-09-10T20:53:00.002-07:002012-09-10T20:53:40.591-07:00Menu Plan 9/9/12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbwH62f9e_oMWe9yjDHACgj-J2ecpgf1EMKW_vQG9A6JXTsIF51-dJ9umXkRRxr9ceueM9cEptnjeSz9TrXGf7J6Wcfibm29zRxqhmBEVWMnswkqgE276-izTR_mhHW6dgw1FABO5K9tR/s1600/mealplanmonday_v2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbwH62f9e_oMWe9yjDHACgj-J2ecpgf1EMKW_vQG9A6JXTsIF51-dJ9umXkRRxr9ceueM9cEptnjeSz9TrXGf7J6Wcfibm29zRxqhmBEVWMnswkqgE276-izTR_mhHW6dgw1FABO5K9tR/s1600/mealplanmonday_v2.jpg" /></a></div>
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We've been so busy lately that I've spent more time <em>staring</em> into the freezer than actually <em>preparing</em> meals. Maybe it's because I've been furiously canning like a crazed lunatic, afraid the pantry police will find my cupboards half empty and issue a citation for being a bad winter prepper. Or maybe it's because I'm as sleep deprived as a new mother, even though I'm not the one having to do the middle of the night (or afternoon) feedings. <em>(Because I'm canning. I'm even dreaming of tropical vacations where the canner comes with the room. And the hotel supplies complimentary jars. Which are located right next to the fruit bowl. Is it winter yet?)</em></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8JMCXXAZmApGSjUEY81KhU2-1Ob6itcSZfdW4VAn804pC_fBs5BMVVVKq2ingwZs56HML1Z2oG-2IEVb0soVKH29Zib9UYdK8P4VLr83Qxfpgwfr7YGY001F-C0pZVW2h81c6WeDrCy0/s1600/102_8121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8JMCXXAZmApGSjUEY81KhU2-1Ob6itcSZfdW4VAn804pC_fBs5BMVVVKq2ingwZs56HML1Z2oG-2IEVb0soVKH29Zib9UYdK8P4VLr83Qxfpgwfr7YGY001F-C0pZVW2h81c6WeDrCy0/s320/102_8121.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making sure that Maggie Moo was getting her colostrum. She couldn't seem to locate the <em>feeding end</em> of her mama.</td></tr>
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Or maybe it's because there are 13 mouths to feed and every recipe has to be tripled now. Which means that I have to pull out my less than stellar math skills and do some figurin' before anyone can count on dinner. I'm so bad at figurin' that my fall-back meal last week was grilled hamburgers. And since I didn't have enough time to grill them all the way through, I called it steak tar tar and served dinner on glass plates instead of paper.</div>
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I need a vacation. </div>
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<em>Without complimentary canners and jars.</em> </div>
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Now that the canning season is coming to an end, everyone has settled in, and Maggie Moo has figured out which end to nurse from, maybe, just maybe, we can get back to normal around here.</div>
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Just as soon as I figure out what normal really looks like.☺</div>
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Here's what's cookin' this week...<br />
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~Sunday~</div>
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cereal</div>
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leftovers</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/11/fancy-schmancy-mac-cheese.html">Macaroni & Cheese</a>, deer steak, corn on the cob</div>
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~Monday~</div>
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cereal</div>
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P.B. & J's, gf pretzels, apples</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/11/mouth-watering-beef-stew.html">Venison Stew</a>, gf Hearty Whole Grain Bread (Thank you <a href="http://e-i-e-i-omg-bybiddie.blogspot.com/">Susan</a> & Bob's Redmill!!)</div>
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~Tuesday~</div>
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<a href="http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/2010/08/zucchini-bread.html">gf Zucchini Bread</a>, Kefir Fruit Smoothies</div>
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Layered bean dip (beans, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, olives, salsa, sour cream), tortillas, apples</div>
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<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/cheesy-polenta-recipe/index.html">Cheesy Polenta</a>, <a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2011/01/salmon-patties.html">Salmon Patties</a>, baked acorn squash</div>
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~Wednesday~</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/10/simple-soaked-oatmeal.html">Simple Soaked Oatmeal</a> with peaches</div>
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tuna wraps, apples</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2009/12/teriyaki-chicken.html">Teriyaki Chicken</a>, jasmine rice, Coleslaw (new)</div>
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~Thursday~</div>
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<a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Apple_Cinnamon_Oatmeal">Overnight Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats</a></div>
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Keifer Fruit Smoothies, popcorn</div>
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Taco Salad</div>
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~Friday~</div>
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<a href="http://jabezfarm.blogspot.com/2010/05/pennsylvania-dutch-baked-oatmeal.html">Pennsylvania Dutch Baked Oatmeal</a></div>
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egg salad sandwiches, fruit</div>
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<a href="http://www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=1554">Chicken Satay Noodle Salad</a> (I'm using almond butter/nuts and brown rice noodles), <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Alysons-Broccoli-Salad/">Broccoli Salad</a></div>
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~Saturday~</div>
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Ham & Swiss Omelette's</div>
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hot dogs (over the fire), lacto-fermented sauerkraut, S'mores</div>
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grilled hamburgers, Salmon Dip (I'll share the recipe this week!), chips </div>
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This post is linked to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/09/menu-plan-monday-sept-1012.html">Menu Mondays at Organized Junkie</a>.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05741321309330513890noreply@blogger.com4