tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73643310337332822032024-02-19T00:56:28.968-08:00Crafting My World: Homesteading in Suburbia...devoted to gardening, cooking, self-sustainability, and other ways I craft my worldNancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-57099979535344987902020-11-18T20:00:00.003-08:002020-11-18T20:00:35.474-08:00Stretching Out<p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> Believe it or not, this is not a post about what you should do before and after a workout. However, you really should stretch on either side of a workout. 😉</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Today was a day for me to stretch in several ways. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The first...not my kids favorites, is stretching a meal. I have had this ginormous zucchini on the counter for awhile. I finally put it to work the past 2 nights: Last night I shredded it and added it to the crushed tomatoes I had canned earlier in the week that weren't quite enough to fill another quart jar.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssE1Dx2YDPOTa4-4Q7lB9WTD7gRpGeimJUnzj4mSVUadW9W_3kUgczwrRWvRMM98wBWXzMaS8xevUePKbXmtONvI5a-dN8bXZEazxf2Pwe3o30RsD9zgGNCDJocSTX1IgAofzw18ZDbn0/s1080/IMG_20201116_190132_408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssE1Dx2YDPOTa4-4Q7lB9WTD7gRpGeimJUnzj4mSVUadW9W_3kUgczwrRWvRMM98wBWXzMaS8xevUePKbXmtONvI5a-dN8bXZEazxf2Pwe3o30RsD9zgGNCDJocSTX1IgAofzw18ZDbn0/w512-h512/IMG_20201116_190132_408.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Half of that zucchini shredded up and cooked into the tomatoes with seasoning nearly doubled the amount of sauce we added to our pasta. And what mom doesn't love "sneaking" extra veggies into a meal??</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1043SMBxQk-QCi1iogmi447BE-J0wSRykAbvlRVVfAIGDPgh_NBaA4IKmWRla5MSXC74cM1mufQvzxgfu3YgFprNmYGwMI-XBf5iq0QcMZz-HATdymxCY0SUZGXVVRlH1ndff8IImxv48/s2048/20201118_170715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1043SMBxQk-QCi1iogmi447BE-J0wSRykAbvlRVVfAIGDPgh_NBaA4IKmWRla5MSXC74cM1mufQvzxgfu3YgFprNmYGwMI-XBf5iq0QcMZz-HATdymxCY0SUZGXVVRlH1ndff8IImxv48/s320/20201118_170715.jpg" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The remainder of the zucchini got shredded up tonight and supplemented our ground taco meat. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Once the meat was browned, I added the shredded zucchini and cooked it until it tenderized a bit and released it's excess water. Then, I added our seasoning -I used <a href="https://www.penzeys.com/online-catalog/taco-seasoning/c-24/p-475/pd-s">this one from Penzey's Spices</a>, as it doesn't have any weird ingredients that others have. Sometimes we like to use one of their other Southwest-style seasonings, but it was classic Taco Seasoning tonight. This all got cooked and simmered with the spices and served with the usual accoutrements: lettuce, salsa, sour cream, cheese, avocado, and tortillas. The zucchini didn't stretch the meat as far as it had the tomato sauce, but the lack of zucchini on my counter (unwasted) is going down as a win in my book. <br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVxw_M8QCsZc-FP3vO4Wvcgy-2T2C-0WNg6TnRELmHZe2X9F7a1fl8Cr6EkSJ17SuLbsx8HteqkXFTKs_ZaXxfcPbyZlm_b09bQau5LX59pLq-yFVyfH6F47p_vlyVOCaZ_a5fnDrg2zN/s2048/20201118_170556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVxw_M8QCsZc-FP3vO4Wvcgy-2T2C-0WNg6TnRELmHZe2X9F7a1fl8Cr6EkSJ17SuLbsx8HteqkXFTKs_ZaXxfcPbyZlm_b09bQau5LX59pLq-yFVyfH6F47p_vlyVOCaZ_a5fnDrg2zN/w640-h360/20201118_170556.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Next stretch is one out of my comfort zone, and definitely a brain stretch: I am putting together a website. Yikes!! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I am really excited to share the final product with you! It will be an extension of this blog, with the option to make it really my own and opportunity to expand. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">While I am utilizing pre-built framework and themes for the website, there is a huge learning curve for this not-so-tech-savvy gal. It's a whole different world from this free blogging platform I have been working with, but I am enjoying the learning aspect and the experimentation. I am hoping to be able to move most of my posting from here into appropriate venues within the site, but not sure yet what that entails. We shall see! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">As soon as it is ready, I'll let you know!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Until then, keep checking back. </span></div><p></p>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-64187214827462462132020-11-09T09:33:00.002-08:002020-11-22T20:14:39.485-08:00Quick and Easy Harvest Baking<p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> It's quick to put together, with simple ingredients that were already on hand, and doubles up nicely for a crowd.<b> Did I mention that it adjusts very easily to be gluten-free AND dairy-free?</b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">It's Northwest Apple Pudding!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This is a recipe that my grandma used to bake, then my mom, and now myself. Although the recipe suggests serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, I prefer it with a light dusting of powdered sugar because that is how I remember having it, and it just feels like the way it should be. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42cV6QRpi0ddaRV7mLJk8Z9vg4z6CyqgzDoDKFujr1wKzSv1TtFO-Wl5FVkmZCUmAt4xD5-FXNAzrCZ6mxlouw_lldDqVLXUdinI9OTcgNOUI4AnkiCVwjKn6eZ-u7PToxZreoZ_MDX3u/s2048/20201107_201933.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42cV6QRpi0ddaRV7mLJk8Z9vg4z6CyqgzDoDKFujr1wKzSv1TtFO-Wl5FVkmZCUmAt4xD5-FXNAzrCZ6mxlouw_lldDqVLXUdinI9OTcgNOUI4AnkiCVwjKn6eZ-u7PToxZreoZ_MDX3u/w640-h360/20201107_201933.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Ironically, digging into the history of this recipe from a family perspective, my grandma came by this one from a powdered sugar box -which may be why I remember it with the powdered sugar dusting. Apparently, my grandma used to like to serve this with a hard sauce, which is kind of like a loose buttercream flavored with brandy. However, because it was to be a family-friendly dish, she wouldn't use alcohol and flavored it with nutmeg. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXhVtXaUQYSll9QDuxAKVD7r3DZxyii5L7nxkUPKbmP6gdQRmRNBe1eWZv9c7Ue9nG4hxkcyT-peQVZ3jL4h8UruR-Kvgh5_aL4jY8Zy5AXeqxkItmOVYB6DP_7iPxS6NzTU7oRIA6hCL/s2048/20201107_152544.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXhVtXaUQYSll9QDuxAKVD7r3DZxyii5L7nxkUPKbmP6gdQRmRNBe1eWZv9c7Ue9nG4hxkcyT-peQVZ3jL4h8UruR-Kvgh5_aL4jY8Zy5AXeqxkItmOVYB6DP_7iPxS6NzTU7oRIA6hCL/w400-h225/20201107_152544.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">Are you ready to try this?? You will not regret it.<br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I will note the adjustments I used to make it gluten and dairy free following the original recipe as well as any other notes I have. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Northwest Apple Pudding</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><ul><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 Cup sugar</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1/4 Cup soft butter</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 egg</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">2 Cup peeled, shredded apples</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 Cup flour</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 tsp baking soda</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 tsp cinnamon</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">3/4 tsp nutmeg</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1/4 tsp salt</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1/2 Cup chopped nuts</span></li></ul><span style="font-size: medium;">Gradually add sugar to butter. Beat in egg. Add apples. Sift together and then add: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Beat until smooth. Add nuts. Bake in a greased 8x8" pan at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45MAOt6_OyUflMxD388EB0EEFagmkf4obFFxSB3_uXnLO1I5nE67IKwDc8RpS1MlbfRknBfwv0d8TORdLRcPeWg6N8MKv2PdF1Phetl7ZYmibHEHIBkKuNlmL7DZEWdln54mtE-R-aprm/s2048/20201107_153138.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45MAOt6_OyUflMxD388EB0EEFagmkf4obFFxSB3_uXnLO1I5nE67IKwDc8RpS1MlbfRknBfwv0d8TORdLRcPeWg6N8MKv2PdF1Phetl7ZYmibHEHIBkKuNlmL7DZEWdln54mtE-R-aprm/s320/20201107_153138.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Adjustments: </b></span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">To make dairy-free, I swap the butter for coconut oil. </span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">To make gluten-free, we swap the flour for Bob's Red Mill 1 to 1 Gluten Free flour</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Feel free to mix up your spices, just keep it heavier with cinnamon. I used a homemade pie spice mix that includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger and put in 2 tsp total.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Raisins also go well with this recipe and can be added in at the end with the nuts. My kids don't love raisins, so I don't often add them. </span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Nuts: Walnuts or pecans work best in this recipe.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Serve as recommended, or dust with powdered sugar like me. Maybe try it like Grandma with some hard sauce, or just grab a fork and eat warm from the pan...no judgement, it's that good. </span></li></ul><span style="font-size: medium;">One last picture, of the last piece with the recipe in it's published form, as seen in the St. Luke's Episcopal Church Cookbook ca.1988</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Enjoy!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LvVugmyks1WSFEJUnZAHWfwTYeE0KUptIGJrE2v1CGzCfoHvKQjmf0lUjWV6mhFimGhXv0sBEuUqx5-a6qagvoFWjTkrAHWOeFSG1yz5W41YJzwBogFj8W9oKjhxbUrQOE6S74AgU93T/s2048/20201109_090353.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LvVugmyks1WSFEJUnZAHWfwTYeE0KUptIGJrE2v1CGzCfoHvKQjmf0lUjWV6mhFimGhXv0sBEuUqx5-a6qagvoFWjTkrAHWOeFSG1yz5W41YJzwBogFj8W9oKjhxbUrQOE6S74AgU93T/w640-h360/20201109_090353.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br /></p><p><br /></p>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-19469393311364523062020-11-06T16:10:00.000-08:002020-11-06T16:10:22.603-08:00Do you know Chicken Math??<p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> <b>There is Good Chicken Math</b>: The kind where you can rationalize numbers so you can get yourself more chickens OR make yourself sound like a not-so-crazy chicken lady. Or maybe you go to get 6 chicks at the feed store, but come home with 10. This = Good Chicken Math</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Right now, I've got some Bad Chicken Math</b></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcVGEefGc5h4uE0c5ovHB2aLvvZxYrZdPdXBlEZIJhHFl5yDF0Lt0_7-eqZ-w2SJjAnHuRZpAPf3_BGy8I4V7b8vvmM1SrcNt5Wr8dy4q95HIBGjAQsNSpJqsyMIWoVxPzZ_nZW52FBbP/s2048/20201106_151329.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcVGEefGc5h4uE0c5ovHB2aLvvZxYrZdPdXBlEZIJhHFl5yDF0Lt0_7-eqZ-w2SJjAnHuRZpAPf3_BGy8I4V7b8vvmM1SrcNt5Wr8dy4q95HIBGjAQsNSpJqsyMIWoVxPzZ_nZW52FBbP/w256-h400/20201106_151329.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><b>Example story problem</b>: Nancy collected 6 eggs this week. All of the eggs are white. Nancy has 6 chickens. Only one of these chickens lays white eggs. How many chickens are freeloading slackers??</span><p></p><p></p><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">This story is an example of Bad Chicken Math.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">Do you know chicken math?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Answer</b>: Nancy has 0 freeloading slackers. 1 Leghorn is working her tail off, and the other 5 are losing their tails aka: Moulting.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Moulting = sketchy looking chickens + no eggs</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">If you find yourself with this kind of chicken math and the feathers are EVERYWHERE, help those girls out:</span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span>Increase the protein your hens are getting. Dried mealworms, scrambled eggs and black oil sunflower seeds are great sources for this. </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span>Reduce stressors by not introducing new flock members, moving them, or making other significant changes to their life.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span>Don't hold them. I know this is a big one, especially if you are used to snuggling them. The new pin feathers they have coming in are very uncomfortable, and being held can be painful to them and could even break the new feathers, causing bleeding.</span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span></li></ul><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn76Rm-ws7rZ7RzqtjbQK2IvWNW98sRhksvKR_oxJBy7noHiKLAZMggsg9RjUghe_uOvPi3N6TUVNDT6WLlEJ-L9iRCz4KLXQuBtZVETwoAYLLrHDvGefE83MXpPKdS9PGef4BEjt_pHa3/s2048/20201104_070524.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn76Rm-ws7rZ7RzqtjbQK2IvWNW98sRhksvKR_oxJBy7noHiKLAZMggsg9RjUghe_uOvPi3N6TUVNDT6WLlEJ-L9iRCz4KLXQuBtZVETwoAYLLrHDvGefE83MXpPKdS9PGef4BEjt_pHa3/w225-h400/20201104_070524.jpg" width="225" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfbWxihyphenhyphen4WaH_ilqBkzk-Trk-Qf2DkfxDcV_3poCQhCC8jy3nykGANo_I2EiCfJumi3_l0DpwoA65QnosuabcQ4B_12H5PAYmVWEu9AVxkXZTRL1J8DkwBmTBgg2s4oDqHXUfvDptez9Yl/s1920/20201020_151734_capture.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfbWxihyphenhyphen4WaH_ilqBkzk-Trk-Qf2DkfxDcV_3poCQhCC8jy3nykGANo_I2EiCfJumi3_l0DpwoA65QnosuabcQ4B_12H5PAYmVWEu9AVxkXZTRL1J8DkwBmTBgg2s4oDqHXUfvDptez9Yl/w225-h400/20201020_151734_capture.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Good news: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When they are done moulting, the eggs will return and your girls will have amazing fluffy feathers once again. Also, moult time is a good time to find some crafts requiring feathers! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Resume Good Chicken Math.</div></span><p></p>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-88204233636369541102020-11-05T07:43:00.006-08:002020-11-05T07:50:45.949-08:00F is for Fall -Part 3: Flock<div class="separator"><p style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFVzl6fluMDiFn761S8SHx2LHJYXGypBYFxeUUwFB7Lz9e4xm0RZrNs9RYT8ZLp9K8VZVfL-WUNMR_uqrbq_c_YUUB9RhnKJsd1xXGGlI6oOE3C3gID-T8Odar4vnH3Tmm1njKYN1IDOA/s2048/20201104_070744.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFVzl6fluMDiFn761S8SHx2LHJYXGypBYFxeUUwFB7Lz9e4xm0RZrNs9RYT8ZLp9K8VZVfL-WUNMR_uqrbq_c_YUUB9RhnKJsd1xXGGlI6oOE3C3gID-T8Odar4vnH3Tmm1njKYN1IDOA/w640-h360/20201104_070744.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"> I had wanted a backyard flock for about 20 years, ever since Seattle Tilth began hosting an Urban Chicken Coop tour, and something triggered inside of me, we were, after all, home owners now. Then ( few years and kids later), I bought a <a href="https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/chickens-in-your-backyard-a-beginners-guide_gail-luttmann_rick-luttmann/264682/item/10156198/?mkwid=7MdyfP12%7cdc&pcrid=11558858575&pkw=&pmt=be&slid=&product=10156198&plc=&pgrid=3970769649&ptaid=pla-1101002864412&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing+Shopping+%7c+Science+&+Math&utm_term=&utm_content=7MdyfP12%7cdc%7cpcrid%7c11558858575%7cpkw%7c%7cpmt%7cbe%7cproduct%7c10156198%7cslid%7c%7cpgrid%7c3970769649%7cptaid%7cpla-1101002864412%7c&msclkid=2da5d6ad8a7b12bab42989099425d92f#idiq=10156198&edition=1336045">recommended book</a> about raising backyard chickens while on a visit to Powell's Books in Portland. I read and enjoyed that book, but sadly, didn't pursue the dream and eventually donated the book, giving up on the idea, distracted by the "busy-ness" of a suburban stay-at-home mom with a new baby. Though I discounted the reality of having my own flock, the dream stayed, hanging out somewhere in my brain waiting for the right moment. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well, two and a half years ago, my oldest texts me from school, "Hey mom, so-and-so says The Grange has a deal. For every $10 you spend, you get 2 free chicks" WHAAAAAAT? *Dream Re-activated*</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> Quick refresher course that evening on starter supplies needed, how to raise and care for chickens, and getting what we had on-hand set up. Then, I just had to attempt to contain the utter excitement one feels before a dream comes true throughout my work day -which fortunately is teaching 5 year olds, so they were willing to share the excitement. Next, was meeting up with my Mom, who, in response to her oldest child's ask, "Do you want to do something crazy with me?" was: "Of course!" Lol! My mom is great and often up for adventures like these. With my youngest kiddo, we headed out to the Grange, spent $30 in starter supplies and were offered 6 free chicks. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXLeT8rzojd11uM42GQlWwlY8Jz2VBb1mC0HVLiYER8QRYLIt8Ftc3dxJe0l6Cl0AejxXnSNYOQXAYk7d7pyCCHh6p3yYgUMAEgNZJNGU9Fm_TAuiqhuITGC9D0RefvSJsayQMuQajkqh/s2048/20180408_105354%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXLeT8rzojd11uM42GQlWwlY8Jz2VBb1mC0HVLiYER8QRYLIt8Ftc3dxJe0l6Cl0AejxXnSNYOQXAYk7d7pyCCHh6p3yYgUMAEgNZJNGU9Fm_TAuiqhuITGC9D0RefvSJsayQMuQajkqh/s320/20180408_105354%255B1%255D.jpg" /></span></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Now, here's where a dilemma arose. I had only intended to bring home 4, as our city has a limit of 6, and I wanted to diversify the flock and add more chicks next season. Well, the what-ifs began to spin in my brain; Being a new chicken tender, from what I'd read, it was very likely that at least one chick wouldn't survive until maturity, "what if" the dog got one, and "what" if one was a roo, and so on. We took all offered 6, including one that had jumped out of the shopkeeper's hand and landed on the concrete floor (I felt so bad for her and wasn't sure she'd make it even though she appeared to be fine). <span style="text-align: right;"> </span></span></p><p style="text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJymf9Bojr4fjPyPPCTcxeVWKOWMPTnXVe4AbW7DG-uLPznHwyDGx3nnpZSLmBh5b_plwGCeHW1XS0R6g9ua2eanMwjN7SdrzEQhv-4Sy90ZSiU8DYkwC96nmlJJDFphFaAZDHz2ZeOyIi/w240-h320/20180311_103625%255B1%255D.jpg" width="240" /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="text-align: right;">Did I mention that this all happened when my husband was on a 2 week work inspection in Hawaii?? Lol, that's what happens when Mama gets left at home to her own devices. Needless to say, he knew this was a dream I had been saving, and built the girls an awesome coop and enclosure that they could move into when they had their big girl feathers.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Here we are, two and half years later, 6 original hens (no roos), no fatal illnesses, and still getting the best of the dog. I love being a Chicken Mama!</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJymf9Bojr4fjPyPPCTcxeVWKOWMPTnXVe4AbW7DG-uLPznHwyDGx3nnpZSLmBh5b_plwGCeHW1XS0R6g9ua2eanMwjN7SdrzEQhv-4Sy90ZSiU8DYkwC96nmlJJDFphFaAZDHz2ZeOyIi/s2048/20180311_103625%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGo7i16PfWA0_6sbHBOYGUT8Z3xU1bMskQQeYHyT6eALja9Kn_jtNkjO_ltxDNfZaCsy2xmhFZD5Yb43XPVLzGLxNshnBBc2ahynZCFznLeCXBx4efPut-CqSV62f5216Ukx5Eakbufim/w225-h400/20201101_112949.jpg" width="225" /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGo7i16PfWA0_6sbHBOYGUT8Z3xU1bMskQQeYHyT6eALja9Kn_jtNkjO_ltxDNfZaCsy2xmhFZD5Yb43XPVLzGLxNshnBBc2ahynZCFznLeCXBx4efPut-CqSV62f5216Ukx5Eakbufim/s2048/20201101_112949.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></div></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />...and, the chick that jumped and hit the concrete floor? </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">There she is above! That's our Jacky, after "Jumpin' Jack Flash" -my mom chose the name. 😉 Despite the flighty description given to Leghorns, she is our easiest to catch, super tolerant of being held, and our most consistent layer. Love that girl!<br /></span><br /><p></p></div>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-61832690939780118562020-11-03T07:15:00.001-08:002020-11-05T06:10:35.426-08:00F is for Fall -Part 2: Fun<p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> Trick or treat! What's your favorite Halloween candy? Almond Joys for me please! Halloween is already 3 days past. How did you celebrate? </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheexp0VZOIKWCFhHuOYE3ZQjp3_DPlbKW8Jerzi1C6YG-TbRgbfKSNz5iH6UJt_iahDYGyNrqIP-tMpsQKaUxdAdOuoSw4ELFQdozP4gFpC3r9jGzCGwWZnBh2iJrM76m0BLnCBorGrgkY/s2048/20201031_121702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheexp0VZOIKWCFhHuOYE3ZQjp3_DPlbKW8Jerzi1C6YG-TbRgbfKSNz5iH6UJt_iahDYGyNrqIP-tMpsQKaUxdAdOuoSw4ELFQdozP4gFpC3r9jGzCGwWZnBh2iJrM76m0BLnCBorGrgkY/s320/20201031_121702.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">We opted out of any trick or treating, but instead took treats to the neighbors with kiddos. It was super fun! The two youngers and I dressed up and delivered during daylight hours, and my middle kiddo got plenty of oohs and ahhs over his homemade mask. We were also really excited and thankful for the mystery neighbor that delivered paper sacks of candy for each of my kids. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHu0bxiaPn2XmL_YjEY0sElGQvyR4u38W1RNp8H8qCw5mCMM3a5E9XVTcudOXUF23q28kcyyWWxF295kbPaYF1T367geDunLK7hNaiwFLeu3UDlbW1qQIzj7C5J5AeRBtsv_gIj85OU6t/s2048/20201031_122036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHu0bxiaPn2XmL_YjEY0sElGQvyR4u38W1RNp8H8qCw5mCMM3a5E9XVTcudOXUF23q28kcyyWWxF295kbPaYF1T367geDunLK7hNaiwFLeu3UDlbW1qQIzj7C5J5AeRBtsv_gIj85OU6t/s320/20201031_122036.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: right;">Later on, we enjoyed walking and bike riding in the gorgeous fall sunshine, then takeout pizza, treats, and the annual viewing of "Hocus Pocus". Afterwards, We set up a glow-in-the dark egg hunt for the youngers. They actually thought it was kind of spooky! All the house lights were off on that side, plus we have a big tree that blocks out the streetlight for the most part, and I didn't allow flashlights. Lol! They did collect them all pretty quickly though. Then, we headed back inside, ate candy, and started watching "The Mandalorian". Yes, yes, I know Season 2 has already started. Don't worry, we'll be caught up soon enough!</div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The oldest and a friend, set up a projector in the driveway, along with a fire in the firepit, and they roasted marshmallows and enjoyed a show...or several. The weather was perfect for it. </span></p><p><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqg2qN7ACMRLgQfbcChMp9SJ3aUWvZaVRbNNN7Xx8bd_8hIl9F78y2SF6tY6xRiT7VbnpEHuaA4NlLbEDEGKnmSMDHg6dR9v8f_3IKNDrbEAwmQf7yOzwkSWbby4SQsFhHXDQp1ngjGSLg/w113-h200/20201029_154130.jpg" width="113" /></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">In addition to going to the farm with the youngers earlier in the week, I got to go enjoy the Halloween festivities at the zoo with my oldest, and our favorite local fast-food burgers. I do enjoy these times with them, knowing that time flies and soon they will be flying on their own.</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjU3EJJTZapaEBJxsBnsl-hoEq5HeGMpbc_UR8JKueQjCctfOo9QDYpgzICkaA7y2otaKTkx39dMDa7X4SDu70nPRBxcoW32MiGK_HRrVHB9NJ6Hx0i9Fx2TN4TuhUsm3uvMc-YcFBSHD/s2048/20201029_131839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjU3EJJTZapaEBJxsBnsl-hoEq5HeGMpbc_UR8JKueQjCctfOo9QDYpgzICkaA7y2otaKTkx39dMDa7X4SDu70nPRBxcoW32MiGK_HRrVHB9NJ6Hx0i9Fx2TN4TuhUsm3uvMc-YcFBSHD/w640-h360/20201029_131839.jpg" width="640" /></span><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;">What did your Halloween look like this year? Did you get creative, go traditional, or skip it this year? We'd love to hear!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XMEKoRrhvK53vf87nTOy1YbjOvdhIVO3xaWMCOLF-7eWcgQPfan78CCp2WCU5Leb4VxXxiyQsVmWPWmHeAPmyQdM7qOIsVJ-TjGVH5ycOc3J-VAWm0zy6oPH3kVEBNKsr9_mfdqqTOHp/s2048/20201031_191429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XMEKoRrhvK53vf87nTOy1YbjOvdhIVO3xaWMCOLF-7eWcgQPfan78CCp2WCU5Leb4VxXxiyQsVmWPWmHeAPmyQdM7qOIsVJ-TjGVH5ycOc3J-VAWm0zy6oPH3kVEBNKsr9_mfdqqTOHp/s320/20201031_191429.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqg2qN7ACMRLgQfbcChMp9SJ3aUWvZaVRbNNN7Xx8bd_8hIl9F78y2SF6tY6xRiT7VbnpEHuaA4NlLbEDEGKnmSMDHg6dR9v8f_3IKNDrbEAwmQf7yOzwkSWbby4SQsFhHXDQp1ngjGSLg/s2048/20201029_154130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p></p></div>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-531422509109022032020-10-30T06:59:00.001-07:002020-11-05T06:10:16.199-08:00F is For Fall -Part 1: Farm<p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> I LOVE Fall! There is so much to enjoy and feel grateful about during Fall: </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Those last warm and sunny days before the cooler weather sets in for the remainder of the year. Reminding us to enjoy them like we did in Summer, or maybe, to not take those sunny Summer days for granted because they won't last all year long. We took the opportunity on a recent day like this to head to our favorite farm: Jubilee Farm</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I love the gorgeous drive through the trees...</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsTtQnNqyzJ-3r7-8XlpJDygL6YruW6dvH1RK_MNM0J43f2m3I_UuZe7t8oXPvIecJJc61_lf2TWaRuJ3e2Ci_c5qI8WxHXy0DOhaimj4qzKF0KDMNvZA8tl1rpc56oBDuZ4hEdyRSYDN/s2048/20201028_125259+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1390" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsTtQnNqyzJ-3r7-8XlpJDygL6YruW6dvH1RK_MNM0J43f2m3I_UuZe7t8oXPvIecJJc61_lf2TWaRuJ3e2Ci_c5qI8WxHXy0DOhaimj4qzKF0KDMNvZA8tl1rpc56oBDuZ4hEdyRSYDN/w271-h400/20201028_125259+%25282%2529.jpg" width="271" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewxXbYOCW128Om4jLfggmlCpY1rcJO9zLrpN2ZC06f_bEwqR-n0qtDUJUWoRP6mRdPq0U7ah4bc1-OOtFvL_h1pVkBUkdIslenHfvpsl7B6RuOcQl5C66bYlvSzco3vegAGgblJ4MUFoq/s2048/20201028_131139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewxXbYOCW128Om4jLfggmlCpY1rcJO9zLrpN2ZC06f_bEwqR-n0qtDUJUWoRP6mRdPq0U7ah4bc1-OOtFvL_h1pVkBUkdIslenHfvpsl7B6RuOcQl5C66bYlvSzco3vegAGgblJ4MUFoq/w225-h400/20201028_131139.jpg" width="225" /></span></a><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyWZ1l7oWCfnUlDgSQn1L8HLv5OkdNDo2JlOyNc4JIkZHN1L2bfUTwPwwyFejFjoEovh7b7pxrDaGAkGRl-5ky9mh-jftZ9Q0kDjvXh5jbBZqxpbs0NU86_Wkiu-ZDE27EgvJ_rMwzcXEM/s2048/20201028_131957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyWZ1l7oWCfnUlDgSQn1L8HLv5OkdNDo2JlOyNc4JIkZHN1L2bfUTwPwwyFejFjoEovh7b7pxrDaGAkGRl-5ky9mh-jftZ9Q0kDjvXh5jbBZqxpbs0NU86_Wkiu-ZDE27EgvJ_rMwzcXEM/w225-h400/20201028_131957.jpg" width="225" /></a> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Seeing the sweet farm animals and the fields of pumpkins. Piggies and pumpkins, Oh My! Had we not grown our own carving pumpkins this year, the one pictured above, would have been my choice to bring home. This time, we were after some cooking pumpkins and quality farm time. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHVNEnt1F4dBwJeCOYnolE8y0XqUxmBaH1iuQ8n32lUFf0bzOTBruusg1pR54QSgxACfq1cL-OeAJvmKzLzZIMTs8uAHLB_72Jpb5DQB2bRHw3nkuw9QVjAJiYjt269b4su5wsRhs0ukj/s2048/20201028_132011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHVNEnt1F4dBwJeCOYnolE8y0XqUxmBaH1iuQ8n32lUFf0bzOTBruusg1pR54QSgxACfq1cL-OeAJvmKzLzZIMTs8uAHLB_72Jpb5DQB2bRHw3nkuw9QVjAJiYjt269b4su5wsRhs0ukj/w400-h225/20201028_132011.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; color: black; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The kids were willing to head to the opposite end of the fields, almost to the river, just to visit the chickens at their tractors. Normally, I feel pretty lucky to get 5-10 minutes watching the farm chickens before at least one kiddo gets impatient, but maybe they matured, or having been home more than usual, we stayed happily for "some time" as my youngest put it. </span><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqXHhS0VBjcEYRthIgl3adn3mRL6etJ20iL8c2wggM6tEyn9DxFc1OsukKJUmIm5nFcubFvVmGOc4MmsMJpFge7YXIz1qPZIv4uP-G3HWMqlcgCcWRfTFp0VIDYIKRIFFfYhH4PaIvWkQ/w400-h226/20201028_133846.jpg" style="font-family: verdana;" width="400" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPekyXXixi05t06hYwzKnwCZV_iu4wLfJ2yCWrBuR85P6p2Kw-eyU4yd69iBvsOOQXtqnSda5bCSfJRwJcrVPDZKjb0WAbAvyOoXGLEKri_xPgLLxViQNdBajNg1SpZSWh3BWnWkQwBBJ/s2048/20201028_131405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPekyXXixi05t06hYwzKnwCZV_iu4wLfJ2yCWrBuR85P6p2Kw-eyU4yd69iBvsOOQXtqnSda5bCSfJRwJcrVPDZKjb0WAbAvyOoXGLEKri_xPgLLxViQNdBajNg1SpZSWh3BWnWkQwBBJ/w640-h360/20201028_131405.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span style="text-align: center;">The view at the farm is incredible too, with the sounds of the Snoqualmie River nearby, the gorgeous Cascade mountains in the background, and all of the farm's offerings surrounding us. I think this is where my farm dreaming truly began, as I can always find peace, grounding, and a smile after a trip here. </span></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg424lAwWNYz33MfDdnz8qjp5pRNDUs_z89bZKUHaW8sUmVYUv6JSDmA4qryJIglNs53GObL-xh8GQtDE7vFUcmIBdy_dlv6mlrzKDhQZtFOWz5yFQPxDrhC8oaKHugMQsHzX4cZA2hi9Xk/s2048/20201029_084521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg424lAwWNYz33MfDdnz8qjp5pRNDUs_z89bZKUHaW8sUmVYUv6JSDmA4qryJIglNs53GObL-xh8GQtDE7vFUcmIBdy_dlv6mlrzKDhQZtFOWz5yFQPxDrhC8oaKHugMQsHzX4cZA2hi9Xk/s320/20201029_084521.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Of course, here are the edible beauties we brought home from the farm to cook up and use throughout the season in baked goods, soups, and maybe a new recipe or two!</span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p><br /></p></div>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-35469609658215607042020-10-28T08:00:00.001-07:002020-10-28T08:00:06.002-07:00Frosty Apples<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yzFjM3fRXXEP6ggfEEhk_YvY-FORfiA2lZHQyBaDq2XB_WdFwu4UGjr-43Tmcz6ScwMSvKlAzuCKQa-xkpNNU-FrNJvWFehdx8jE4CR8oWWvD9p41_jB3AUG-gBGxImK0aPrhmShe0Vo/s2048/20201025_074818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yzFjM3fRXXEP6ggfEEhk_YvY-FORfiA2lZHQyBaDq2XB_WdFwu4UGjr-43Tmcz6ScwMSvKlAzuCKQa-xkpNNU-FrNJvWFehdx8jE4CR8oWWvD9p41_jB3AUG-gBGxImK0aPrhmShe0Vo/w640-h360/20201025_074818.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />We had our first frost of the season, a light one, but it covered everything and made me question whether or not I had done all that I should to get the garden ready for Winter. It also alerted the spidey-senses, telling us that apple harvest time was near. Once upon a time, we were told that you should wait until <i>after</i> the first frost to harvest them, so that the sugars could concentrate. We have a dwarf Fuji that is about 5 years old and has been producing well the last few years. Hence, excitement for apple picking. </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasjVBRF4JcXS-r_HwbI6_gYsuEJIZ1zHMZWGcq0G7A2m-Z-5zbb95taK5BMP01jQ2d98BuswmRs2ZBg6JMXVKI-M5FMpiRQjrYHqqgLrH00yHNedkn3xD5n8f2_VYmjygblXYeyBRZ5FU/s2048/20201025_150238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasjVBRF4JcXS-r_HwbI6_gYsuEJIZ1zHMZWGcq0G7A2m-Z-5zbb95taK5BMP01jQ2d98BuswmRs2ZBg6JMXVKI-M5FMpiRQjrYHqqgLrH00yHNedkn3xD5n8f2_VYmjygblXYeyBRZ5FU/w234-h400/20201025_150238.jpg" width="234" /> </span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasjVBRF4JcXS-r_HwbI6_gYsuEJIZ1zHMZWGcq0G7A2m-Z-5zbb95taK5BMP01jQ2d98BuswmRs2ZBg6JMXVKI-M5FMpiRQjrYHqqgLrH00yHNedkn3xD5n8f2_VYmjygblXYeyBRZ5FU/s2048/20201025_150238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIG5KMDHJ55UBlmRI_wOliJAOmQkWzgukMY6IfJ5tBVs1oep0TSYiLpGVmJTy2LkwJX8Sz15-SKH91hsSPb9b0e-8DtJ7b8O9lDoFbWxDCt8TwvAIGMbkZnevlUZ0rG_-6C6y3tG2hRdgA/s2048/20201025_154203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIG5KMDHJ55UBlmRI_wOliJAOmQkWzgukMY6IfJ5tBVs1oep0TSYiLpGVmJTy2LkwJX8Sz15-SKH91hsSPb9b0e-8DtJ7b8O9lDoFbWxDCt8TwvAIGMbkZnevlUZ0rG_-6C6y3tG2hRdgA/w640-h360/20201025_154203.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasjVBRF4JcXS-r_HwbI6_gYsuEJIZ1zHMZWGcq0G7A2m-Z-5zbb95taK5BMP01jQ2d98BuswmRs2ZBg6JMXVKI-M5FMpiRQjrYHqqgLrH00yHNedkn3xD5n8f2_VYmjygblXYeyBRZ5FU/s2048/20201025_150238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasjVBRF4JcXS-r_HwbI6_gYsuEJIZ1zHMZWGcq0G7A2m-Z-5zbb95taK5BMP01jQ2d98BuswmRs2ZBg6JMXVKI-M5FMpiRQjrYHqqgLrH00yHNedkn3xD5n8f2_VYmjygblXYeyBRZ5FU/s2048/20201025_150238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /> After the frost melted (it didn't take long), I headed out with a big bag and collected all of the apples that hadn't already been sampled by our local wildlife. We ended up with a nice collection of almost 40lbs of these beauties which will go into the freezer, sauce, a crisp tonight, and many just straight down the hatch. Did I mention that I LOVE apples?? Next to raspberry season, this is my favorite harvest time of the year. </span><p></p></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well, I read into the "picking after the frost" method. None of the readings I found supported this idea. In fact, most articles discussed the danger of allowing apples to freeze before harvesting. Fortunately for me, apples, in general, require 28 degrees and lower for at least 4 hours to cause damage to the fruit. Ripe apples and apples with a higher sugar content (read: Fujis) require lower temperatures to freeze, closer to 24 degrees. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I did finally find an article regarding the sugar concentration, because that really is a thing. Apparently, it is warm sunny days and cool nights that make the apples amazingly sweet. I guess we have been having just what the apple doctor ordered, because look at the inside of this apple I collected!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">It didn't last very long! We've probably been through nearly a dozen apples since harvest, just eating them by the slice. I don't have a picture, but they are so beautiful when you hold these sugary pieces to the sun as it just shines through them. My youngest was fascinated. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Here's the haul:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwlKfU7z6Zyf6rHR2Tk72shTKZtWmtWFEkfZpKdTKzC6-kpecU80CRDF_1ScRjNZDchwrLmUOmTSFReI16oyvKGvN7NFPsDcjFsc2RWbpovWpvJygdzZNnn6NK21y05ykUo2nwpPCEKnU/s2048/20201026_100512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwlKfU7z6Zyf6rHR2Tk72shTKZtWmtWFEkfZpKdTKzC6-kpecU80CRDF_1ScRjNZDchwrLmUOmTSFReI16oyvKGvN7NFPsDcjFsc2RWbpovWpvJygdzZNnn6NK21y05ykUo2nwpPCEKnU/w640-h360/20201026_100512.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Alright, may you be blessed with delicious apples and a beautiful day!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-16863020867459069782020-10-27T10:24:00.000-07:002020-10-27T10:24:58.390-07:00Bee Harvest<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">With the first frost approaching, we knew it was time to bring in the bees. This was our second year with Mason Bees, and we had learned much from our first season. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This year started with a new bee house that hubby built. He designed it so that parchment paper inserts could be placed into the back of the house with excess folded outside of the holes for ease of harvesting later, and it would then mount with brackets onto the fence facing east to get good sun all day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My son brought the house in before the first overnight freezing temps, and we kept it in the garage for a couple of days while I made sure I knew what to do for the harvest.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvS08b7cxc5uPlaQY3HaQEFKMhNViBKZHZ2WD8M2rKN_guo45CIGm6Y3lq_w83qY7K436-9Ec2QxsN6otdBjmbzjpq2O2Kdaeg84oMEY1YQK-TDR4KYc4GbBer6ThgYUjebOCQ995nw18/s2048/20201026_102343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvS08b7cxc5uPlaQY3HaQEFKMhNViBKZHZ2WD8M2rKN_guo45CIGm6Y3lq_w83qY7K436-9Ec2QxsN6otdBjmbzjpq2O2Kdaeg84oMEY1YQK-TDR4KYc4GbBer6ThgYUjebOCQ995nw18/w225-h400/20201026_102343.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div style="text-align: left;">First, was removing each of the parchment rolls from the house and sorting them. Most of the tubes had filled (Yay!), I think we ended up tossing about 8 that had no occupants. Then we had to figure out which ones were the mason bees. We had noticed in June, after about 20 tubes had been filled there was a pause, so we assumed that the mason bee season was over. Then about a month later, we found that tubes were starting to fill up again. This time they looked quite different. With Mason Bees, you generally get a consistent mud texture that dries to a grayish brown. These tubes were bright green, red, orange, and some were quite rocky. Turns out, they are quite likely leaf-cutter bees. These are another beneficial bee that has a later season and are good pollinators. Anyway, we needed to sort out the Mason Bee vs. Leaf-Cutter Bee tubes. It worked out to be about 50/50 between the two, about 20 tubes of each. </div></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLb0hT-nPotZjo_AuTvtY87na35eA06pO_8OeGIfPO1QlCpP9aDIezeRu2NLi9rBqC_sx1teIb6vqdKHd6j_RY1wH7qnWzUstNU7WDGAiyKN3I-Fnhi88JqsSDcBJkIILfDoi9HAFzCWp/s2048/20201026_103506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLb0hT-nPotZjo_AuTvtY87na35eA06pO_8OeGIfPO1QlCpP9aDIezeRu2NLi9rBqC_sx1teIb6vqdKHd6j_RY1wH7qnWzUstNU7WDGAiyKN3I-Fnhi88JqsSDcBJkIILfDoi9HAFzCWp/s320/20201026_103506.jpg" /></a></div><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITx_mUgJhItrFKd7HJ9WK1k98XDao6WXS8BYxUOikD2mm5okrBagZ0FLyny3EDBddzv9IE4gdZMquljaT_-3kqeyq5-arIcU_0l6K1bHU5M3B3_jC_eyLa0CZg924yTNkTCxwBPNtQoDk/w180-h320/20201026_103559_capture.jpg" width="180" /></span>Next, we opened each of the Mason bee tubes and removed all of the healthy cocoons, and discarded anything else. After all of the tubes were opened, the cocoons went into a bowl of room temp water for an initial rinse. Then, they went into a dilute bleach solution to kill off any harmful bacteria or parasites. Finally, one more final plain water rinse and onto a paper towel to dry briefly. Soaking in the water will not harm the cocoons, unless they have already been breached. Just don't leave them for long. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_Gmy43sfTe2i2m0tn4-lguY-HDTPmEAlk8zlcDgUEaLX5Su1Cf_V9laVp3oDtYH6Lo3AYq_xO5OZCdDfdr7hEgXiVAX2dx7egd2hXsjBGj-a3wRvHClfP2UWB3fT85YjHPs4-IyAvn_R/s2048/20201026_104522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_Gmy43sfTe2i2m0tn4-lguY-HDTPmEAlk8zlcDgUEaLX5Su1Cf_V9laVp3oDtYH6Lo3AYq_xO5OZCdDfdr7hEgXiVAX2dx7egd2hXsjBGj-a3wRvHClfP2UWB3fT85YjHPs4-IyAvn_R/w225-h400/20201026_104522.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpaqDYkphZwfsW_442p0SL2EL5ZcRk70Fv94YFDRNBsxqTkPCJLFCj8VnXA3TymB2D8qTe1ArE5PAi29ade1uxApbva10Md8E4H_jjb6nXXL-VDB8t4EI5dajmHOlG-DItMEJRmN1DxPP/s2048/20201026_111349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpaqDYkphZwfsW_442p0SL2EL5ZcRk70Fv94YFDRNBsxqTkPCJLFCj8VnXA3TymB2D8qTe1ArE5PAi29ade1uxApbva10Md8E4H_jjb6nXXL-VDB8t4EI5dajmHOlG-DItMEJRmN1DxPP/s320/20201026_111349.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: right;"> Finally, after the cocoons are dry, it's time to head to the refrigerator. We put ours in a container (a small coated box is fine) lined with fleece. As refrigerators nowadays are frost-free, they tend to be dry. These cocoons will need some humidity, but you don't want them sitting directly in water. You can keep them in a drawer that has a humidity setting, and/or keep a bit of water in your container. This is how I was shown by a neighbor who got us started on Mason Beekeeping. She lines her container with foam (like the kind you would use for crafting, not styrofoam or packing foam), puts a small amount of water in, then the cocoons on top of the foam to keep them from being in direct contact with the water. We didn't have foam, so I am trying fleece instead. </div></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div>These bees are AMAZING pollinators, and we have noticed a big increase in the amount of apples we have harvested the past couple of years. We started the season off with just under 30 cocoons, and ended up with 37 harvested to start next Spring. </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITx_mUgJhItrFKd7HJ9WK1k98XDao6WXS8BYxUOikD2mm5okrBagZ0FLyny3EDBddzv9IE4gdZMquljaT_-3kqeyq5-arIcU_0l6K1bHU5M3B3_jC_eyLa0CZg924yTNkTCxwBPNtQoDk/s1920/20201026_103559_capture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We found this <a href="https://crownbees.com/harvest-spring-mason-bee-cocoons">link</a> at Crown Bees to be super helpful for our bee harvest. They have some great resources for all aspects of raising Mason Bees and other beneficial wild bees.<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjMUe0UGarBKMACVGZ4n3z_AcZPBWYOE2c-0fXF9A3e7XksWExbKcIwt-M2ZNaiBzGlTaBOUttFWn-gSVsPIx5gqtN-g3P4_QAk2dVtlkl1IEoaFiK47pkR_GMbJYodW_jhkLJUC-z7vC/s2048/20201026_103506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />These bees are very docile and so interesting to watch. We enjoyed time spent near their house just watching them do their thing. I would encourage anyone who is interested, to find out more about keeping Mason Bees. It's great for all ages and the benefits of bees is unlimited.</span><p></p></div>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-81276155193336786172020-10-25T21:44:00.003-07:002020-10-25T21:44:59.130-07:00Soup-er Sunday<p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"> Fall is here and so is hearty soup season!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">My family loves soup. I love quick and easy recipes that they will ALL eat. Knowing that I was going to be busy with chores, errands, a Girl Scout troop meeting, and Sunday Night Football, tonight's dinner needed to be quick, easy, and good. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDAQEBlyOo2OduzHGxg_4RHn5Snxv_RSuwiIbWGJmMhDUJ-xatsbQBuunEdXs85ClzQLIAXb18sIcdD1BhCshBVyF6pk42_JayMDRS3_ftfJ_xIXJp3Ut8z0l9qSZkVrlXmSbPdHsBR7uw/s2048/20201025_150638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDAQEBlyOo2OduzHGxg_4RHn5Snxv_RSuwiIbWGJmMhDUJ-xatsbQBuunEdXs85ClzQLIAXb18sIcdD1BhCshBVyF6pk42_JayMDRS3_ftfJ_xIXJp3Ut8z0l9qSZkVrlXmSbPdHsBR7uw/w226-h400/20201025_150638.jpg" width="226" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We tried this <a href="https://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2019/03/rustic-sausage-potato-soup-recipe.html">recipe</a> for Rustic Potato Soup, from Jill Winger's Prairie Homestead Cookbook. It checked all of the boxes. I liked that I only needed to make one substitution for household intolerance -oat milk for heavy cream. In the future, I probably would just skip that ingredient, or use cashew milk to give it a creamier texture, but it was good, regardless. </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The only garden element I was able to include in this recipe were the greens. I wasn't able to collect enough kale from the garden, so I threw in some chard along with it to make up the needed quantity -substitution #2. 😉<br /></span><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8T8YrUe6mX8hW0g_MHDErifQpEw_h0JMmJcKCih0O0ParEABSKO1nR8k-atbIQZ1CQNMsSxBarUJteSqMWLK96dR2r770Y3bwVeHBqowwcFrAflR5PDoSAApCKNwF7angjPG0UiqtuKuG/s2048/20201025_151111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8T8YrUe6mX8hW0g_MHDErifQpEw_h0JMmJcKCih0O0ParEABSKO1nR8k-atbIQZ1CQNMsSxBarUJteSqMWLK96dR2r770Y3bwVeHBqowwcFrAflR5PDoSAApCKNwF7angjPG0UiqtuKuG/w181-h320/20201025_151111.jpg" width="181" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">It also worked out really well that I just happened to finish making a pot of chicken bone and veggie broth as dinner prep started. I had cooked up a couple of whole chickens the other day (they were on sale!) and had put the meat in the freezer for quick and easy meals another day. I saved the carcasses and added veggie scraps that I save up in the freezer to make an awesome stock. Look at that color! Yum. I put the needed amount into the soup and stored another several quarts for later. If you have never tried making your own stock, I highly recommend you try. It is easy and so good for you, as you can control the ingredients including sodium and fat quantities, not to mention the nutrition from cooking the bones down. <br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOTOYdgnGyBdjDu-8zv0bespcqXcS8YoWJojr9UMpSRYrL7YOvpkgIowdieJW51Q8je_5_1KfjI_vEnDXIG6FndNYVE8LjM5u7-oObSHLO5RSUXCNKPgXJX8SQ_4pn5_BERHjV79Eg90pn/s2048/20201025_155240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOTOYdgnGyBdjDu-8zv0bespcqXcS8YoWJojr9UMpSRYrL7YOvpkgIowdieJW51Q8je_5_1KfjI_vEnDXIG6FndNYVE8LjM5u7-oObSHLO5RSUXCNKPgXJX8SQ_4pn5_BERHjV79Eg90pn/w360-h640/20201025_155240.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: verdana;">Voila! Delicious, hearty, and so easy to make.</span></b><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">There are no leftovers of this dish to speak of. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Success!</span><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-85000541537350325872020-10-23T11:21:00.000-07:002020-10-23T11:21:18.431-07:00Putting the Garden to Bed<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> Happy Friday, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Fall has definitely arrived around here, the days are so much shorter, and getting more gray and drizzly. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">A couple of weeks ago, we got our first real rains of the season. I still had a ton of green tomatoes on the vine that I didn't want to go to waste. I have been able to successfully ripen tomatoes on my kitchen windowsill and counter, but pending at least 20lbs of green tomatoes coming in, that would not work this time. After reading up on the subject, all of the unripened tomatoes were placed in a cardboard box together in the garage. The idea behind this is that fruits produce a gas called ethylene which is what helps them ripen. When all of the fruits are placed in close (breathable) quarters they will ripen faster when picked green. So far, it's looking pretty good. As they ripen, I will skin and freeze them until I'm ready to can them.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyoIqSN0cKo-pjXLZZQSqfCe4rFzy3e-Q5FcXNbqeZ3CY5FaMkSpORv1TomEkoE-4V9VrFyGEZviYBpgw79n0lF64pAasH5ipkicegKyM9DJVsZTXf8jYTC-SvY7d3e3wSA3F-Bcs1JG4/s2048/20201008_155649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyoIqSN0cKo-pjXLZZQSqfCe4rFzy3e-Q5FcXNbqeZ3CY5FaMkSpORv1TomEkoE-4V9VrFyGEZviYBpgw79n0lF64pAasH5ipkicegKyM9DJVsZTXf8jYTC-SvY7d3e3wSA3F-Bcs1JG4/w297-h168/20201008_155649.jpg" width="297" /></span></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78wjLvWX5fS4nd6K7ArV_mXKUtcO-25kl_DK9ynM8213NERvLde1CJFyBArBkYPVe-7_MZqkfduBEUByAazshwK5d6LdifhrHQwUNV2c1S010S5xculr96QUQBpd03-72wda2B-WBQJaw/s2048/20201023_102820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78wjLvWX5fS4nd6K7ArV_mXKUtcO-25kl_DK9ynM8213NERvLde1CJFyBArBkYPVe-7_MZqkfduBEUByAazshwK5d6LdifhrHQwUNV2c1S010S5xculr96QUQBpd03-72wda2B-WBQJaw/w306-h173/20201023_102820.jpg" width="306" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We're supposed to our first below-freezing overnight temps this weekend. I wanted to make sure that I had harvested all that I could, and gotten my beds ready for the season. Because I do have a little more time at home than usual, we are really trying to maximize this by upping our garden game. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">One bed has been planted with alliums: Yellow Onions, Egyptian Walking Onions, and Garlic. I learned this year that these are best planted in Fall for a following Summer harvest. They have been covered with a thick, cozy layer of grass clippings to keep them safe from freezing temps. 5 other beds have been harvested, turned, weeds cleared, and replanted with a cover crop seed blend. We have cover cropped before, but not for at least 10 years. I think, when we did it the first time, we let them go too long and they went to seed and became more hassle than help. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">What is a cover crop? A cover crop is something that you plant in your garden, most often in the "off-season", to help your soil, either by supplementing it with needed nutrition, fixing those nutrients, or by breaking up impaction to aerate it. We opted for a Garden Blend Mix from Mountain Valley Seed that seems to cover all of the bases and includes Clovers, Vetch, Wheat, and Radish, among others.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdYloVF4o7nhQAVN7YJF7BGMOxlFoKxgIKGtvx6Lp56DZztwoPhMzhcsARYurCce9B-FVvcjJIAmWjItTbQ-jIrbYws_ubmUI9TmbemEpZ3ngJCrnhStvCNED6RdwoPo_qM0lTxhwKbtOc/s2048/20201008_162435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdYloVF4o7nhQAVN7YJF7BGMOxlFoKxgIKGtvx6Lp56DZztwoPhMzhcsARYurCce9B-FVvcjJIAmWjItTbQ-jIrbYws_ubmUI9TmbemEpZ3ngJCrnhStvCNED6RdwoPo_qM0lTxhwKbtOc/w640-h358/20201008_162435.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPeN17rCywRwQJVWvNS5CFFKue9Qhjw3j8C_YinHIy20MbvSf9WPmzMiEUDeD8kAdC_PImz5MSJ4LgNXjY7PR_zWhXdtOU2-IUmmwucQIS0-9WNhGiS984HeKY0sbPNJlgi7z7z7cPjuH/s2048/20201019_113218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPeN17rCywRwQJVWvNS5CFFKue9Qhjw3j8C_YinHIy20MbvSf9WPmzMiEUDeD8kAdC_PImz5MSJ4LgNXjY7PR_zWhXdtOU2-IUmmwucQIS0-9WNhGiS984HeKY0sbPNJlgi7z7z7cPjuH/s320/20201019_113218.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I get a lot of "help" from my feathered friends. They like to add a little extra fertilizer to the beds and make sure there aren't too many worms left before they get tucked in for the season. To the left, you can see the allium bed covered in clippings, our rhubarb hanging on, one last pumpkin vine, and a stray upright fuschia that are not in our raised beds. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Do you tuck your garden in? I'd love to hear about it!</span></div><p></p>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-53971832912906211042020-10-22T19:28:00.000-07:002020-10-22T19:28:04.764-07:00ReCrafting in 2020<p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> Welcome, or for a few, welcome back!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">2020 has been a year to craft! During our current pandemic and shelter-in-place phases, I have taken the opportunity to enjoy extra time with my family, delve a little deeper into my hobbies, think outside the box, and dream ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Along the way, I decided to revive the blog with the hopes that sharing my craftings may bring some inspiration to someone else walking a similar path to increased self-sufficiency while living in the 'burbs.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I plan to share new projects, garden experiments, recipes, and of course chicken "nuggets". For better or worse, you'll see them here. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Here we go!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXFZ-tF4e7bA9VnkrIlRvhnJ60NiIS1DoQfUby4QZSGlUsdL1HoPrlRqV-n42i50smruu5tGVtPw13YpEmsH5Hkgpahcw5OJ06Qs2i50Xd6iDgP_IciuDmjnp1esRnqr3P6YXrqzBOfur/s2048/20200420_105657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXFZ-tF4e7bA9VnkrIlRvhnJ60NiIS1DoQfUby4QZSGlUsdL1HoPrlRqV-n42i50smruu5tGVtPw13YpEmsH5Hkgpahcw5OJ06Qs2i50Xd6iDgP_IciuDmjnp1esRnqr3P6YXrqzBOfur/w343-h640/20200420_105657.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-56793247100911009892016-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:002016-01-20T06:28:13.231-08:00Cultivating Gratitude in Our Home<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
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<b>Welcome!!</b><br />
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I'm so glad you are here! I've really been enjoying Kristen Welch's new <a href="http://raisinggratefulkids.com/">book</a>, Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World. <br />
I love how real it is, and I am so appreciative of all the ideas she shares on cultivating gratitude within the home. <br />
Today, I'd like to share with you some ideas I'm using within my own home and family to increase the level of gratitude in our family members. Most of these are so simple and require little to no extra supplies and very little time. What they require, is just a little extra thought.<br />
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<b>#1 Model gratitude for your family.</b><br />
When you are out shopping or running errands, thank the people who are serving you. Stuck in traffic? Thank the passengers in the car for their patience or thank the car for not breaking down/running out of gas, etc. Thank the crossing guards who get you and your kids safely to school. Thank the teachers in your life. Thank your children. Thank your spouse. Thank God. Show people that you appreciate them, and the others around you will notice and may follow suit.<br />
Do it every day.<br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
<b>#2 Ask yourself these three questions everyday:</b><br />
Who or what do I appreciate today?<br />
What or who has made me happy today?<br />
How was God good today?<br />
I took these questions right from the Gratitude Bracelet below (you can get one <a href="http://shop.mercyhousekenya.org/product/gratitude-bracelet">here</a>). You don't need a bracelet to ask yourself these questions, but I wear mine to reinforce this new habit. I have also started asking my kids these questions. Not only does it help them to express gratitude, but I also get to find out a whole lot about their day. :)<br />
<img alt="3 ways to be more grateful in the new year: " class="pinImage rounded" data-load-state="pending" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/35/8a/dd/358add351ee2d9983bf78ef84ef79392.jpg" width="264" /><br />
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<b>#3 Teach children about money and spending.</b><br />
There is a lot of debate on what is the best way for kids to get/earn money: Allowance that they have to earn by doing specific chores, allowance or salary that they are given regardless, but have an expectation to participate in family chores, or maybe another option.<br />
This is something that we are still figuring out what works for us. Our kids now range in age from 6 to 14. The oldest is very self-motivated when it comes to working and earning. She spent the better part of a year earning half the tuition to go on a school service trip to the Dominican Republic. Even after the trip, she is happy to take on extra jobs outside the home to earn money for things that she <b><i>wants</i></b>.The middle child, not so much. He likes to spend, but doesn't yet want to put much effort towards earning. When we talk about money with him, we relate the cost of an item with that of Lego sets. This is something he has previously saved for, and LOVES, so he can relate to this. For example... Recently, he wanted to purchase something sweet and consumable that cost around $5. I reminded him that he would be using most of the money he currently had, and he could purchase a small Lego set instead for around the same price. This gave him some pause as he considered that. I was proud when he opted to not make the purchase (he didn't get Legos either, but held onto his money). Our youngest still doesn't quite understand monetary values of things, which is fairly normal, but she certainly pays attention when we shop. I have starting using cash when we shop, which allows them to see what groceries actually cost, rather than the swipe of plastic that has no meaning to them. <br />
Giving kids an allowance/salary/earnings of some sort, can teach them amazing responsibility and gratitude. It helps them understand about wants (toys, games, etc.) and needs (food, clothing, shelter), and can give them a financial insight to what is provided to them. <br />
I could go on for several posts about this subject (and will probably do at least one), but Kristen has a great chapter on this in the <a href="http://raisinggratefulkids.com/">book</a> with a multitude of suggestions. <br />
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<b>#4 Global Perspective.</b><br />
Okay, this is one that, to get a real hands-on experience, could cost a good amount of time and money, but will make a lasting and worthwhile impression. <br />
We have not had a lot of experience with this, but the little we've had was worth it! It is so important to see how other families live and what other communities are like in other parts of the world. This helps put a new perspective in our lives and can help us appreciate all that we have. <br />
When our oldest got home last Spring from her trip to the Dominican Republic, the thing she was most excited about was our bathroom. The fact that it was in our house, the toilet flushed, and had hot water to wash her hands with afterwards, were all things she didn't have regular access to while she was there. She now carries the experiences of this trip with her everywhere, and she has the opportunity to see things differently, and with gratitude because of it. <br />
<img alt=""When we create a world that revolves around our kids, it gives them a false security..." #raisinggratefulkids: " class="pinImage rounded" data-load-state="pending" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a5/54/96/a55496aa34b0b9a59142dfde84ef2cdb.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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And, last, but most certainly not least:<br />
<b>#5 Service to Others</b><br />
I cannot emphasize how important giving back to others is. <br />
I grew up in a home where you volunteered and you did things to help others because it was the right thing to do. Because of this, I now have a home where you volunteer and you help others. <br />
It feels good to help others. People feel good when they have been helped. It's a happy circle!<br />
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<i><b>How do we give back? There are many ways, but here are a few to try:</b></i><br />
*Volunteer at school. There is always something to do and kids can see if their teacher needs help after-school (wiping desks, etc.)<br />
*Taking trash cans in for a neighbor on garbage day after collection.<br />
*Picking up litter in the neighborhood.<br />
*Making toys for shelter dogs out of old towels.<br />
*Baking cookies for the local firefighters.<br />
*Buying and donating food to our local food shelter.<br />
*Rake the leaves out of neighborhood storm drains.<br />
*Hold the door for someone.<br />
*Take a grocery cart back for someone.<br />
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Click this <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/ngwknowles/raising-grateful-kids/">link to my Pinterest board</a> for more ideas on cultivating gratitude as inspired by the book, Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World.<br />
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Thank you so much for stopping by, and I hope you've found at least one idea to encourage gratitude.<br />
Now, hop on over to one of our other co-hosts to learn more:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://happyturtlelife.com/blog/2016/1/19/inspiring-an-attitude-of-gratitude" target="_blank">Inspiring an Attitude of Gratitude </a> - by <a href="http://happyturtlelife.com/" target="_blank">Alison</a>
<a href="http://balutzfamily.blogspot.com/2016/01/rasing-grateful-kids.html" target="_blank">Rasisng Grateful Kids</a> - by <a href="http://balutzfamily.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">amanda</a>
<a href="http://www.bumblebirdblog.com/2016/01/15/why-you-cant-buy-gratitude-at-the-dollar-store/" target="_blank">Why You Can't Buy Gratitude At The Dollar Store</a> - by <a href="http://bumblebirdblog.com/" target="_blank">Andrea</a>
<a href="http://www.inspiringheartsandhomes.com/missing-gratefulnessinourhome/" target="_blank">Missing - Gratefulness in our home</a> - by <a href="http://www.inspiringheartsandhomes.com/" target="_blank">Ange </a>
<a href="http://lifewithgreeneyes.wordpress.com/2016/01/18/choosing-gratitude/" target="_blank">Choosing Gratitude</a> - by <a href="http://lifewithgreeneyes.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Angela</a>
<a href="http://autismchristianmom.worldpress.com/gratefullness" target="_blank">Gratefullness</a> - by <a href="https://autismchristianmom.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">chaley</a>
<a href="http://www.christacordova.com/2016/01/5-steps-to-gratitude-filled-family.html" target="_blank">5 Steps to Gratitude-Fille Family</a> - by <a href="http://www.christacordova.com/" target="_blank">Christa</a>
<a href="http://www.danaherndon.com/practicing-grateful-parenting" target="_blank">Practicing Grateful Parenting</a> - by <a href="http://danaherndon.com/" target="_blank">Dana</a>
<a href="http://bootsandfeet.blogspot.com/2016/01/sing-song.html" target="_blank">Sing a Song</a> - by <a href="http://bootsandfeet.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hannah</a>
<a href="http://seejamieblog.com/cultivating-gratitude/" target="_blank">Cultivating gratitude in our family</a> - by <a href="http://seejamieblog.com/" target="_blank">Jamie</a>
<a href="http://janabeard.com/2016/01/gratefulness-in-our-home/" target="_blank">Gratefulness In Our Home</a> - by <a href="http://www.janabeard.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a>
<a href="http://janabeard.com/2016/01/gratefulness-in-our-home/" target="_blank">Gratefulness In Our Home</a> - by <a href="http://www.janabeard.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a>
<a href="http://www.jenbaileywade.com/2016/01/let-it-begin-with-me.html" target="_blank">Let It Begin With Me</a> - by <a href="http://jenbaileywade.com/" target="_blank">Jen</a>
<a href="http://fivefoxlove.com/choosing-gratefulness/" target="_blank">Choosing Gratefulness</a> - by <a href="http://www.fivefoxlove.com/" target="_blank">Jennifer</a>
<a href="http://havefaitheveryday.com/2016/01/18/raising-grateful-kids-in-an-entitled-world-the-book/" target="_blank">Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World - The Book</a> - by <a href="http://www.havefaitheveryday.com/" target="_blank">jeri</a>
<a href="http://www.mamarevivalseries.com/2016/01/eradicating-entitlement-what-are-you.html" target="_blank">Eradicating Entitlement - What are you rooted in?</a> - by <a href="http://www.mamarevivalseries.com/" target="_blank">Jessica</a>
<a href="http://www.jonandkate2008.com/" target="_blank">Gratefulness in our home</a> - by <a href="http://www.jonandkate2008.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a>
<a href="http://www.whatsupfagans.com/2016/01/entitlement-be%05s-with-parents" target="_blank">The Problem With Entitlement is that it begins with us</a> - by <a href="http://www.whatsupfagans.com/" target="_blank">Katelyn</a>
<a href="http://heavenissmilingabove.blogspot.com/2016/01/7-unusual-ways-i-know-how-to-be-grateful.html" target="_blank">7 Unusual Ways I Know How to Be Grateful</a> - by <a href="http://heavenissmilingabove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kathryn</a>
<a href="http://livinginthisseason.com/raising-grateful-kids-mama-shares/" target="_blank">Raising Grateful Kids</a> - by <a href="http://livinginthisseason.com/" target="_blank">Keri</a>
<a href="http://lifeinlapehaven.com/2016/01/19/children-remind-me-to-pray-gratitude/" target="_blank">How My Children Remind Me to Pray with Gratitude</a> - by <a href="http://www.lifeinlapehaven.com/" target="_blank">Kishona</a>
<a href="http://notesfromamama.blogspot.com/2016/01/grateful.html" target="_blank">Grateful</a> - by <a href="http://notesfromamama.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kristy</a>
<a href="http://thebalchusfamily.blogspot.com/2016/01/the-ugly-truth-of-beautiful-lie.html?m=1" target="_blank">Entitlement: The Ugly Truth of a Beautiful Lie</a> - by <a href="http://thebalchusfamily.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Leigha</a>
<a href="http://www.lindseymbell.com/the-most-important-thing-you-can-do-to-raise-grateful-kids/" target="_blank">The Most Important Thing You Can Do To Raise Grateful Kids</a> - by <a href="http://www.lindseymbell.com/" target="_blank">Lindsey</a>
<a href="http://www.marieosborne.com/2016/01/teach-you-to-be-grateful-without-guilt" target="_blank">Dear Son: How Do I Teach You To Be Grateful Without Guilt?</a> - by <a href="http://www.marieosborne.com/" target="_blank">Marie Osborne</a>
<a href="http://untoadoption.org/gratitude-a-practical-definition/" target="_blank">Gratitude, A Practical Definition</a> - by <a href="http://untoadoption.org/" target="_blank">Mia</a>
<a href="http://www.craftingmyworld.blogspot.com/2016/01/cultivating-gratitude-in-our-home.html" target="_blank">Cultivating Gratitude in Our Home</a> - by <a href="http://craftingmyworld.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Nancy</a>
<a href="http://www.cranberryteatime.com/2016/01/learning-gratitude-through-chronic.html" target="_blank">Learning Gratitude through Chronic Illness</a> - by <a href="http://www.cranberryteatime.om/" target="_blank">Rachel</a>
<a href="http://lookingformarbles.com/being-grateful/" target="_blank">Being Grateful</a> - by <a href="http://www.lookingformarbles.com/" target="_blank">Rebecca</a>
<a href="http://www.sarahefrazer.com/2016/01/ive-found-something-i-cant-live-without" target="_blank">I've Found Something I Can't Live Without</a> - by <a href="http://www.sarahefrazer.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a>
<a href="http://www.sarahdamaska.com/?p=2508" target="_blank">The Power of Naming our Gifts</a> - by <a href="http://sarahdamaska.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a>
<a href="http://sarahjoburch.blogspot.com/2016/01/outfitted_17.html" target="_blank">Outfitted</a> - by <a href="http://www.sarahjoburch.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Jo</a>
<a href="http://celebrateheartandhome.com/gratefulness/growing-gratitude" target="_blank">Growing Gratitude in our Family </a> - by <a href="http://celebrateheartandhome.com/" target="_blank">Sondra</a>
<a href="http://mrsbishop.com/2016/01/teaching-gratefulness.html" target="_blank">Teaching Gratefulness</a> - by <a href="http://mrsbishop.com/" target="_blank">Stephanie</a>
<a href="http://onegrateful.blogspot.com/2016/01/how-grateful-looks-from-here.html" target="_blank">How Grateful Looks From Here</a> - by <a href="http://onegrateful.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alison </a>
<a href="http://yodertoterblog.com/2016/01/11/fighting-entitlement-in-children-and-all-of-us/" target="_blank">Fighting Entitlement in Children and All of us</a> - by <a href="http://yodertoterblog.com/" target="_blank">Leah</a>
<a href="http://karriescombs.blogspot.com/2016/01/entitlementits-problem.html" target="_blank">Entitlement Problem</a> - by <a href="http://karriescombs.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Karrie</a>
<a href="https://amantedelacasa.wordpress.com/2016/01/18/grateful-today/" target="_blank">Grateful Today</a> - by <a href="https://amantedelacasa.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Krystal</a>Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-11828463162615727302014-11-01T17:30:00.000-07:002014-11-01T17:30:59.467-07:00Smart BlanketWell, I'm not sure how smart this blanket is, but the textures on it are great for getting those little baby brains working.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KhYEbFSSU-l3H_dixMzbiPPYdpuFvvq_ZZBhvAhvK2xYDSTU_Dqe-7fr2rOukqM59479ZyUJv11XSX_NqD7NTzT6z1_oTFP5Ae6zd6gdvclXMbSTlNOD2-j9CB687LNFqcFx3pmYHJuU/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KhYEbFSSU-l3H_dixMzbiPPYdpuFvvq_ZZBhvAhvK2xYDSTU_Dqe-7fr2rOukqM59479ZyUJv11XSX_NqD7NTzT6z1_oTFP5Ae6zd6gdvclXMbSTlNOD2-j9CB687LNFqcFx3pmYHJuU/s1600/007.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
There are 4 fabric pieces on the top: Denim (recycled blue jeans), terry cloth, printed fleece, and slipper foot fabric (you know that nubby stuff they put on the bottom of footie jammies?). It's backed with a solid fleece (this one matches the terry cloth), and edges with coordinating satin blanket binding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWareaFswdL-e41Cw0ct1p1e7O0Lj9q44CpPfG4gQAkyRoUuQ0MXL3mS8mos5mulT1gSfEWl-F4kkpumrj9fRMj6k4YoAyXc4F-xQTf8-8aBBPhnVQXbC5YsC2dL1XzzmgbALEu601Gk9U/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWareaFswdL-e41Cw0ct1p1e7O0Lj9q44CpPfG4gQAkyRoUuQ0MXL3mS8mos5mulT1gSfEWl-F4kkpumrj9fRMj6k4YoAyXc4F-xQTf8-8aBBPhnVQXbC5YsC2dL1XzzmgbALEu601Gk9U/s1600/006.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Here's a pic of most of the top altogether. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr5tFhxUKbieKtcTVBEDA77R70w9qgAwrOCmMBPDvXPDygVGJnUzxCJM0035Wng7h9nTicI-l0w-VR9py9mmv_ONO1wP1pLkv8-OV26NC_YJedOAcCWwUKyhc-yQPh3_gHz07Rj9lO-3pp/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr5tFhxUKbieKtcTVBEDA77R70w9qgAwrOCmMBPDvXPDygVGJnUzxCJM0035Wng7h9nTicI-l0w-VR9py9mmv_ONO1wP1pLkv8-OV26NC_YJedOAcCWwUKyhc-yQPh3_gHz07Rj9lO-3pp/s1600/003.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
I just gave my third one as baby gifts. I hope the babies like them! I also made some with a pink & green color scheme. I think they turned out pretty cute and am making a batch to have on hand for gifts or to sell.<br />
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It's been busy around here with back-to-school/work, then Halloween (with costumes I forgot to take pictures of), but I'm hoping to get back with craft-of-the-week, just in time for the holidays.<br />
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I hope this Fall is treating you well so far!!<br />
Happy Crafting!!Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-1177150380159584942014-08-13T08:01:00.001-07:002014-08-14T10:18:15.298-07:00Try-it Tuesday: Homemade Larabars *updated 8/14*Yes, I know it isn't Tuesday, but I tried something new yesterday: Homemade Larabars.<br />
I have been wanting to do this ever since I tried a Larabar and my sister sent me a recipe from her Cross-fit group. I found more recipes online and sucked it up and bought the ingredients at Costco.<br />
Here is the link to the awesome <a href="http://leitesculinaria.com/88638/recipes-homemade-larabars.html">homemade larabar recipes</a> that I used.<br />
Flavors chosen based on the ingredients I had: Cherry Pie, Gingerbread, and Dark Chocolate Brownie.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc22WAF_M7ZQao1E6Y5y9TZrbFkpV8o4AJCXE_xBpv9x9VPwlvyCozHS88O9RuqPwhvghiljgdqAkGhh67Kf-O-kT-TjBelVmULtAJQDdKXO4rQq43RXg-fsJAsCdKFFdecKuYMfDhd7US/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc22WAF_M7ZQao1E6Y5y9TZrbFkpV8o4AJCXE_xBpv9x9VPwlvyCozHS88O9RuqPwhvghiljgdqAkGhh67Kf-O-kT-TjBelVmULtAJQDdKXO4rQq43RXg-fsJAsCdKFFdecKuYMfDhd7US/s1600/001.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
I forgot to take pictures during the making of, so I apologize that you have to make-do with the after pics.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUq2fg03E4y23igc7qed7wGWm0ayl5cGsJCgkSWy5I4TJwrhpA79c6MHGwESl6F7wxtu_xhqfQiGH2f_H6MnqbOeT2Tz68mwrR8rvkJojrV4BHpTHbZjxQD6K0zgsqho-UZDpGAyd5D7s/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUq2fg03E4y23igc7qed7wGWm0ayl5cGsJCgkSWy5I4TJwrhpA79c6MHGwESl6F7wxtu_xhqfQiGH2f_H6MnqbOeT2Tz68mwrR8rvkJojrV4BHpTHbZjxQD6K0zgsqho-UZDpGAyd5D7s/s1600/002.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a>They turned out so good!! I'm partial to the Cherry Pie ones -which ironically was the recipe with the biggest substitution. I found a smokin' deal on the Craisins flavored with cherry juice and figured I try that rather than spending a small fortune on dried cherries. So good!! Probably adds a little extra sugar though.<br />
I opted to make these more of a snack-size so I formed them using a 2T scoop which comes out to be approx 1/2 a regular bar size.<br />
My picky eldest happened to be in the kitchen when I discovered a Gingerbread one that had missed getting into the bag -she gobbled it down and pleaded for another. Win for me!! Everyone had a Brownie one for dessert and the kids were begging for seconds. More win!<br />
There are two things I LOVE about these: First, they are made with no added sugars, have lots of protein and fiber, and are in general a great snack option that the kids truly enjoy. Second, the great value -I'm a sucker for a bargain.<br />
At my Costco you can get an 18 count box of Larabars for just under $16 which comes out to just under $0.88/bar. Good price, I'm not arguing that. I just get bored with the lack of flavor options. Enter the plethora of recipe options.<br />
Here is what I purchased from my local Costco (unless otherwise noted):<br />
Dates: about $8 **found a pitted variety for $5 in yesterday's trip to Costco, bought them instead*<br />
Almonds: 3lbs for 15.69 (48 1/4C servings)<br />
Pecans: 2lbs for 13.69 (32 1/4C servings)<br />
Cherry flavored Craisins: 10oz bag for .99 (a deal from the back-rack at QFC) (7 1/4C servings)<br />
*I also got a sack of cashews from Trader Joe's, but did not use them in this round of "baking", so did not count them in the calculations.<br />
I used all of the dates (save for 1/4C): approx $8.00<br />
8 servings of almonds: $2.62<br />
4 servings of pecans: $1.71<br />
4 servings Cherry Craisins: $0.57<br />
I got the equivalent of 19.5 bars with those 3 recipes, so the total comes out to approx $0.66/bar. That's a 25% savings. :)<br />
Granted, I did not include the 2T cocoa powder, 3T chocolate chips, 3/4t ginger, 3/4t cinnamon, and 1/4t cloves. These are all in my regular pantry stock, but I can't imagine they would add more than a couple of cents on per bar.Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-45045344470259366002014-08-07T07:44:00.000-07:002014-08-07T07:44:16.668-07:00As the Garden GrowsWell, as I've been trying to keep the school garden updated in this blog, I've neglected updating my own home garden, which is doing rather well. Bear with me, this post may get long-ish.<br />
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<b><u>Marionberries:</u></b> Sadly a week or so ago we said farewell with this final handful of super-ripe goodness:<br />
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We harvested well over 20lbs of fruit and my freezer runneth over of their goodness. Now I need to suck it up and start canning and baking. The weather has been unusual in that it has been continuously warm. We usually have some cool days/rain breaks. This summer we've had maybe two.</div>
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<b><u>Strawberries: </u></b>Still chugging away. They are in an upswing right now. Kiddos are happy. </div>
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<b><u>Blackberries:</u></b> They're here -early!! I picked my first sampling last week (we don't usually get to do it until later in the month as we have a later-producing, thornless variety), and they were good. A little on the tart side, but very flavorful. Now it is time to start seriously picking. A lot of them are right in the center of the bush, which because of it's height, means I'll need a step-stool to snag these beauties:</div>
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<b><u>Cucumbers: </u></b>We put these into what had become a compost bed, then hubby added soil, turned it a bit, and BOOM, you get seriously crazy cucumber growth -not to mention the good-sized tomatillo volunteers in the back (right of the picture).</div>
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These plants are so densely packed it's kind of a challenge to find the cucumbers themselved. We're going to find some monsters in there, I know it!!</div>
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<b><u>Tomatillos: </u></b>These are all volunteers from our experimental (bumper) crop last year. Looks like we'll get enough to make a few batches of Salsa Verde again this year -YUM!! Here is the recipe I used from Ball Canning: <a href="http://www.freshpreserving.com/recipes/tomatillo-salsa">Tomatillo Salsa</a>, and I love to use it in this family favorite crock-pot recipe: <a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2009/03/crockpot-chile-verde-recipe.html">Chile Verde</a></div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Corn:</u> This is probably our 3rd or 4th go at corn. Our first couple tries were unsuccessful, but last year worked out well, hence, an attempted repeat this year. Hubby bought twice as many plant starts this year, and so far it's looking good. I just wish it would ripen already! I want to roast those ears up on the grill and butter 'em up!</div>
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<b><u>Beans: </u></b>We've got some green pole beans flanking either side of the corn. They got planted at least a month later than they should have been, so are taking their sweet time, but have held up beautifully in the heat, and have got some teeny little beans going. </div>
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<b><u>Watermelon: </u></b>This was a random, fill in an empty patch, we have some leftover seeds from last year, planting. Hubby was not really inclined to have them planted as they were a total bust last year, and from all the times we've attempted them, we've gotten maybe 2 or 3 edible small melons. I am very hopeful this year:</div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Peppers:</u> Aside from the berries, we consider these to be the biggest success this year. Hubby and the Eldest love peppers, and we've grown them for the past few years with varying degrees of success. Nothing like this though. We've got 2 Green Bells, 2 Yellow Bells, and 2 Hungarian Hot Wax. They are all amazing this year!! The size and quantity are at least doubled on our previous "best crop". We've already eaten up a few, and I plan to smoke/roast a bunch of the Hot Wax to use later in the year, and some will, of course, go into the salsa mentioned above.</div>
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<b><u>Tomatoes:</u></b> Ripen already would ya?? We have what feels like a zillion tomatoes, but nothing has ripened yet. Not even the Green Zebras. 8 plants this year that have gone berserk. Canned tomato sauce will be happening this year.</div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Cool-weather crops:</u> Not pictured. Last Fall, rather late-Summer, I made another unsuccessful attempt at growing turnips. I love turnips and have had the worst luck growing them as a spring crop (if you have a secret/tip/etc. let me know), so I thought we'd try the Fall/Winter crop route. Planted broccoli, turnips, and I think kale. NOTHING! We got a couple of sprouts, and then NOTHING! Fast forward to end of June: Beds have been turned, left same bed unplanted. I see some "weeds" that don't look like the usual fare. We left them to see what would become of them...Ta-Da! Turnips! There were 4, but not even more have started growing. Go figure! A friend had given me some Pak Choi starts and we planted those nearby the turnips using their leaves for shade. This has worked out really well for the pak choi. Reason there is no picture: When the weather started getting really warm about 4 weeks ago, we draped a sheet around the puppy fencing to keep the plants from getting completely scorched. It has worked beautifully, but doesn't provide the best photo setting. It'll probably come down in a couple weeks, then I'll take a pic for ya.</div>
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<b>Herbs:</b> Here are my new herbs that I received from my Hubby and my dear co-worker between Mother's Day & my Birthday. Beautiful!!</div>
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From foreground->back: Tri-Color Sage, Purple Sage, Golden Sage, Pineapple Mint, Oregano, & African Blue Basil. Yoga Frog keeps them all peaceful and happy. :)</div>
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Last, a sample of yesterday's harvest (what didn't get eaten or passed around):</div>
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Oops, honorable mention to our zucchini, yellow squash, and onion plants who are among our early producers, and we're happy they're a part of our garden too!</div>
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Have a great day!!</div>
Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-32254849575937702182014-07-26T15:46:00.000-07:002014-07-26T15:46:35.227-07:00We Be Jammin'...AgainSo, <a href="http://www.billpacefruitandproduce.com/">local fruit market</a> has some beautiful Eastern Washington apricots for a great deal. Recognizing that I didn't get my 1/2 flats x2 of raspberries this year (gasp!), and that apricot jam is second only to raspberry as my favorite kind of jam, it was a no-brainer.<br />
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So lovely, and large too! The ones on the bottom looked a little green, so I figured we could start off by eating our fill of the perfectly ripe one, then start jamming when the others began ripening. Hubby, Middle Monkey, and I ate quite a few this week, and what you see in the box is after I took out a jam-batch worth.<br />
So good! The picture gives them a green hue for some reason, but as I was chopping them up, I was reveling in their beautiful rosiness.<br />
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Look at the beauty there! It was a bit foamy, and I didn't put butter in, but knew hubby would be thrilled. The scum is his favorite.<br />
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My eldest comes in after I'd gotten them canned up (save for the remnant jar in front). "Oh, did you caramelize that Mom??" "Oh yeah, isn't that great?", is my response while trying not to laugh. The color is gorgeous, however, not the color I aim for while making apricot jam. After I had cleaned up the stovetop area and gotten utensil loaded into the dishwasher, I 'fessed up with this:<br />
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Not so lovely scorched spot in the pot. I had forgotten that apricots have a tendency to burn more easily than the normal berries I use (this has happened to me before), but was so very careful not to scrape it while stirring so there wouldn't be any nasty flecks in the jam. End result: Yummy apricot jam with a hint of smoke at the finish. I've been using the Ball brand classic pectin. I get more jam for the money than using the pre-measured pectin, and I get it at <a href="http://www.mclendons.com/">my favorite hardware store</a>, where they also have jars, lids, etc. cheaper than anyone else around here. I have to admit though, I cheat a little. According to the recipe, you aren't supposed to do more than 5x the batch listed on the label. I consistently do 6x as the numbers come out a little more even for measuring, and I like that.<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">And, hubby likes this:</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Happy Crafting!</span><br />
<br />Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-79520176357663957552014-07-23T07:34:00.001-07:002014-07-23T07:34:42.169-07:00A Very Welcome Wet WednesdayAnd, we have rain:<br />
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It has been a long time since we've had "real rain". Very light sprinkles yes, but this was an honest-to-God downpour. The rain woke me up in the middle of the night, I smiled, and promptly fell back into a peaceful sleep. Fast forward a few hours: dragged myself out of comfy bed to go on a morning walk, and enter the thunder. Hmmm...walk on. Enter thunder and friend lightning and mild rain. Walk off. Before I knew it thunder and lightning were overlapping, rain became pour...<br />
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Here is a glimpse of the gushing gutters (there was plenty of overflow off of the roof as well), and standing water in the garden.<br />
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Here's a peek at the new garden space...the new plants seemed to be holding up okay. I was a little worried about them in the downpour.<br />
Just ran some buckets out to catch the rain to save on watering when the rain does go away in a day or so. It looks to be in the mid-80's again by Monday.<br />
Welcome to the Pacific Northwest.<br />
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Enjoy your welcome wet Wednesday PNWers. Hope it helps the firefighters on the East side of the Mountains.<br />
I'm going to work and craft inside, guilt-free, today.Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-26027085413360016912014-07-22T17:06:00.000-07:002014-07-22T17:06:09.675-07:00School Garden Weekly UpdateIt's still chugging away...<br />
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The garden definitely wasn't loving the heat we had the past couple of weeks, but it's still hanging in there, and the weeds haven't come back either.</div>
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Tomato and tomatillos had some blossom drop which could be attributed to the heat, or lack of pollination. I haven't seen many bees when we've visited. </div>
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The cukes seem pretty happy, or at least pleasantly green. It's time to watch for their tendrils and get those running up the side so they don't latch onto the tomatillos. </div>
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Onions and nasturtiums are growing well. I am really wanting those nasturtiums to go nuts and call in the bees. :) </div>
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The rest of the seeds are still showing, but not showing a lot of development. We'll see. </div>
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I'm chomping at the bit to get those fall/winter crop seeds in, but need to wait a few more weeks.</div>
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Still hoping someone will come in once school starts with a plan for Garden Club or for one of the classrooms. </div>
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Until then, I'm happy to keep it "presentable". </div>
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Have a great afternoon!</div>
Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-73581265205095451622014-07-09T10:32:00.000-07:002014-07-09T10:32:25.408-07:00School Garden UpdateHappy Wednesday!<br />
It's starting to heat up around here -starting Saturday it looks to be in the low-mid 90's around here. Pretty warm for us. About time for us to drag the portable a/c unit in.<br />
Because it's been warm, and about to get warmer -I've been checking in on the school garden a little more frequently. The school sprinkler system comes on about 3 times per week, but I'm concerned about those little transplants and seeds getting enough water.<br />
I've started taking my watering can down a couple times a week to supplement.<br />
They seem pretty happy:<br />
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The tomatillos are starting to sport some fruit and get some new growth at the base. Tomato looks happy, but no blossoms yet, same with the cukes.<br />
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Tiny mustard and chard sprouts coming out...hopefully they won't bolt immediately.<br />
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A lone nasturtium sprout.<br />
And...<br />
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Happy onions! </div>
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It's hard to see, but to the right of the onions, there are a zillion little lettuce sprouts.</div>
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So far so good.</div>
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I'm hoping with enough moisture and all this warm weather, the sprouts should be all up by next week. My plan is to do a weekly school garden update. So look for more (green!) next week. </div>
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This little bed has definitely inspired us to look at some square foot gardening next year in our own garden beds. Maybe even do one specifically for a fall/winter crop this year -we've got room to add in one more bed. :) </div>
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Have a great day!</div>
Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-52289589091043303242014-07-02T17:07:00.002-07:002014-07-02T17:13:30.752-07:00School Garden UpdateIt's been the better part of a week since I did any significant work at the school garden beds, but I'm excited to see how it will come out.<br />
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The top of the bed faces North. Starting from the NW corner, left to right, this is what was planted:<br />
Row 1: Cukes x4, Row 2: tomatillos x4, Row 3: empty, unknown type tomato, tomatillos x2, Row 4: nasturtiums, empty x3, Row 5: empty, lettuce x2, chard, Row 6: nasturtiums, lettuce x2, mustard greens, Row 7: empty, onions x2, empty, Row 8: nasturtiums, carrots x3.<br />
The first three rows utilized extra starts that were thinned from my garden, except the tomato that was a volunteer. I'm very curious to see what variety it is -we had quite a few different ones last year.<br />
The nasturtiums I put in for color and to bring back the bees that the previous resident clover did. Also, they're edible and pretty in a salad. :)<br />
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The empty squares, I plan to utilize as fall crops, and plant seeds in about a month. Going to try: beets, turnips, cabbage, and more greens.<br />
These are very late plantings, especially the seeds, even by Puget Sound planting standards. The spring was much drier and warmer than normal, and summer is looking the same. A lot of crops are kicking off earlier this year than they would in a "normal" year. Check my <a href="http://craftingmyworld.blogspot.com/2014/06/its-berry-good-life.html">berry </a> post for more on early crops. I was very glad to see that the sprinkler system is working, and hoping it will carry the transplants through the warmer days.<br />
Overall, I'm really not sure how these plantings are going to work out.<br />
We'll call it a summer science experiment. :)<br />
Hopefully, there will be something for the students to check out once school starts.<br />
I would LOVE it if the fall crops come out well and a class or two could use the beets to pickle or use for dyes: science and art, two of kids' favorite subjects! If there are any NHE teachers reading this, please comment or email me if you have an idea for the fall crops (or any of the summer leftovers!). <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">Pinterest </a>has some good ideas for using fall veggies.<br />
If the kids could use these to make a snack, that would be my dream come true! I think it is so important for kids to learn where food comes from and how to utilize it from a fresh and local source. Unfortunately, there always seems to be a lot of red tape where this is concerned. If you have interest in a garden for a school you work at or that your children attend, check out the <a href="http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/HealthierKids/TeachingGardens/Teaching-Gardens_UCM_436602_SubHomePage.jsp">Teaching Gardens</a> hosted by the American Heart Association. They've come up with a program to combat childhood obesity by teaching children the steps of gardening: planting, nurturing, and harvesting. While it teaches them the value of being able to produce their own food and good eating habits, it's also giving them hands-on science, math, and heck, you can even work art into it!<br />
Another thing it incorporates, is just good old-fashioned time outside, another thing many children just don't get enough of, and this subject could be another post on it's own. Until it is however, let me just give you the title of the book I'm reading right now on the subject: <a href="http://richardlouv.com/books/last-child/">The Last Child in the Woods</a>.<br />
Before I really get going, and you stop reading, let's go enjoy the beautiful day -rain or shine!<br />
Garden on friends...<br />
<br />Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-69574308081801961322014-06-30T09:35:00.002-07:002014-06-30T09:35:28.768-07:00It's Berry Good LifeHappy Monday!<br />
<br />
This looks to be one of the best berry seasons I have ever experienced in Western Washington, and I am so excited!! Local berry farms have been selling berries 2 weeks ahead of schedule, and don't believe the season will be shortened -WooHoo!!<br />
We've slowly been building up our berry patch over the years; Started with a couple of dwarf blueberries, one of which is still incredibly small and not a great producer, next came the thornless blackberry from my childhood backyard, a few strawberries here & there that got <a href="http://craftingmyworld.blogspot.com/2014/05/sunday-sweats-in-yard.html">their own patch</a> this year, a marionberry in a gallon pot 2 years ago, and this year a raspberry patch comprised of a few new sticks (uh, canes) we bought at the<a href="http://www.mclendons.com/"> favorite hardware store</a> and transplants from Mom K's house.<br />
This has all resulted in some good yield so far:<br />
<b>Strawberries</b> -not enough for a decent batch of jam yet, but plenty to pick and eat.<br />
<b>Blueberries</b> -couple of handfuls so far, some of them even came off of the teeny one!<br />
<b>Raspberries</b> -even though these were just planted early to mid spring, we've gotten a couple of handfuls off of them. Success in my book! We will be making a trip south to buy some locals just so I can get my jam on. We like <a href="http://www.spoonerberries.com/">Spooner's</a>.<br />
<b>Marionberries</b> -The current star of the show:<br />
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As they started ripening, we picked and ate a few each day, but I was able to pick enough (5+ cups) to make hubby a welcome home crisp over the weekend. It was gone before I could snap a pic. :)<br />
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This morning I went out and snagged 3+ cups, with probably a second picking later today.<br />
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Here are my happy, berry-stained fingers. :)<br />
I'll be washing and freezing the berries this week to jam later on, and probably another crisp or cobbler.<br />
Last but not least:<br />
<b>Blackberries</b> -Already seeing green berries, busy bees all over the multitude of blossoms. It's gonna be another great (and early!) blackberry year.<br />
<b>Honeyberries</b> -Okay, this is a new one. Some friends of ours are moving out of state and gave us their 2 honeyberry bushes. I had never heard of honeyberries. We won't get berries this year, but if you have tips for this plant, I'd love to hear it! They are going to be planted east of the raspberries. <br />
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This is a section of our berry patch. Blackberry is blooming in the back. That one bush can get me 3 large batches of jam, a couple of cobblers/crisps/pies, and leftovers for smoothies or just eating. Shrub at the right is our "large" dwarf blueberry. It usually gives a handful+ each year. This year we've already gotten two, with another ready to pick today. Enough for munching, or maybe pancakes. Unfortunately, with it's location (low) I think we lose the fruit to birds and other critters. In the foreground is the marionberry. I am so glad we bought this, it rocks! Raspberries live to the left of the photo, strawberries to the right.<br />
We have a berry good life...Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-49238363914133269202014-06-27T22:02:00.001-07:002014-06-27T22:02:19.153-07:00One Down or: Evolution of a DrivewaySo, I had a couple of bigger projects planned for the summer. Not of a crafty nature per se, but definitely diy projects. The first, we have talked about since our remodel 5 years ago. We know that sometime in the future, the original front side of our home will get bumped out approx 3ft., which would take out that part of the patio and knowing we want to replace it, that in turn would take out a chunk of the "wild" garden. So, we had planned to expand the garden to cover for that and then some, using up a lot of what used to be our driveway before the remodel, and using the gravel that was already there for a pathway. Last summer, we started inching the rocks forward, tried to get Middle Monkey to do it for pay, but all in all, a half-hearted effort with little result.<br />
This summer, I decided, it was going to get done before I head back to work in the Fall.<br />
My thinking, was to spend the hours I wasn't getting paid to work over the summer doing something that otherwise: a) wouldn't get done or b) we would have to pay someone to finish.<br />
We came into some free dirt (good stuff!) on my birthday, hubby took a mattix to the hardened ground/asphalt leftovers, Middle Monkey and I removed large rocks & raked off a lot of the gravel left behind. Then, I went through and turned it all over again, re-raked, then shoveled over the new dirt, added some half off pony-packs annunal/perennials at my<a href="http://www.mclendons.com/"> favorite hardware store</a>, and transplanted some of the plants that would eventually be moved (count 6 lavender plants), and a few other herbs from the garden.<br />
I was pretty sore the next day, but so glad to have this done. I cannot wait for the plants to grow and let this new space get a little wild itself. We have a ton of ferns that need to be thinned, so a couple of those will get moved to the new area come fall, along with some lillies that were missed when I moved them earlier this year, and I'm sure I'll find something else to add in. <br />
Here are some way before pics:<br />
Just before the driveway was demoed<br />
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Demoing<br />
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What was left, and the space cleared for the new driveway.<br />
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Jump ahead 5 years, we lined one side of the driveway w/lavender and I repositioned my lillies from the backyard to between said lavender.<br />
Here is just before the "after" (I'd already cleared it and started spreading dirt):<br />
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Wide-angle view (with new plants still in pots set out for effect)<br />
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Everything planted, and Middle Monkey's innovative placement of a salmon shaped paver -he thought it should look like it was jumping through the stream. Frankly, it made me wish we had a couple more of those guys.<br />
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Really glad it turned out so well. Hubby's been gone and I can't wait for him to see what we did while he was away. :)<br />
Not bad for a few hours and $6.54!<br />
Have a great weekend!Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-65261500242614498972014-06-06T15:39:00.000-07:002014-06-06T15:39:12.705-07:00Square Foot Gardening Anyone?So, once upon a time, there was a school garden bed...This bed had generously been built and installed by a local fast food company known for their fresh ingredients. Sadly, after a year of curriculum use, and the loss of it's PTA chairperson, the garden has been in decline for 2+ years.<br />
Enter a go-getting PTA volunteer who felt just as sad as I did seeing it's decline.<br />
She asks for help.<br />
I say yes, because, well, I guess maintaining my own garden just isn't enough. :) Seriously, I want families and staff at the school to see what it can be, and hopefully, inspire someone to do something great with it.<br />
<br />
Here's the Monkey in the Middle, who so graciously accepted the extra pair of work gloves I brought when I picked him up after school today, with the "before" shot:<br />
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The garden has dividers in it for square foot gardening. All told, there are 32 square (4x8).<br />
Here are the 9 we got cleared of the well-established clover:<br />
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I need to research a little on square foot gardening, but the plan is to put in a plant in every square. I'm thinking this could be a great home for my extra starts. This garden has a twin to the north that another school family has "adopted" for the summer. It will be neat to see how they turn out!<br />
Happy Crafting!Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-17532235811168189802014-06-04T22:53:00.000-07:002014-06-04T22:53:10.132-07:00So many strawberries...The little one and I headed down yonder to Grandma & Grandpa's house yesterday. While we didn't help Grandma out much in her studio (Grandpa had already beat us to it!), we did all go together to the local berry stand to see what was available.<br />
This is what was available:<br />
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Mom/Grandma went for the fresh picked mere hours ago berries, where I opted for the more economical, but required immediate processing berries picked Monday morning. After enjoying lunch and visiting time, we headed home to get this going:<br />
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Washin', squashin', and gettin' jammin'<br />
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Last but not least, a jam spoon to be cleaned!<br />
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Even Happy-Bunny gets in on the strawberry action:<br />
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All told, the little monkey and I ate at least 3 pints ourselves, and I've got a batch of "fancy jam" -Strawberry Lavender cooking on the stove now. This will be the first time I've used fresh herbs from our garden in jam, as well as making jam without pectin. It is a lengthier process than I normally entail.<br />
But, I'm very much enjoying the new canning tools, and amazing canning cookbooks I received as a Christmas gift. They will be getting a lot of use.<br />
Next up: "Fancy Jam 2" -Strawberries with Thai Herbs. Stay tuned.<br />
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Happy crafting!Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364331033733282203.post-55389741703763661222014-05-23T07:45:00.001-07:002014-06-23T19:27:13.240-07:00Tis the seasonIt's been one of those crazy weeks. <br />
I'm getting ready to head in for my last day of preschool -a bittersweet day. So much fun seeing the kids change and grow from the first day, now ready to head off to Kindergarten. Because it was so fun, I get sad -I'll miss those smiley faces. <br />
It will also be my own youngest child's last day of preschool (big sad/happy face). I cannot believe <em>she's</em> ready to move on to Kindergarten...still processing this one. <br />
In other news -swim team season has begun!<br />
When I first signed our eldest up for swim team I hoped, but had no idea she would love it so much. The middle joined in later on the premise of trying "just one season", here we are 3 seasons ago for him. <br />
There is so much joy in watching them swim. I love that they've continued, as this is an activity that can carry them through life's currents and eddies.<br />
The "baby" has always loved being in the water, so you can imagine the disappointment that came with her refusal of lessons for 2 summers. I didn't push it, because it's way more important that she takes lessons with a positive feeling, and she is now so ready and I'm so glad we waited. <br />
Prime example: We went to the pool last week as the winter "bubble" was off and it was over 80 degrees. Youngest had not been in the pool since early last fall, she immediately was under the water, holding her breath and doggy-paddling as fast as she could. Wow -leaps and bounds. She is now counting the sleeps to her first swim lesson. :)<br />
I'm going to leave this post with my most favorite swim pic of the eldest:<br />
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This was taken at the champs meet last year -she didn't even recognize herself. She has a beautiful butterfly stroke. :)<br />
Enjoy the weekend, I will be back over the next few days with cards (the supplies have been spread over my table all week waiting for me!), and Sunday Sweats. <br />
Happy Crafting!Nancy Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02064130729270914968noreply@blogger.com0