My goodness, it has been nearly two months since I last posted! So much has happened in the past two months, I was just super busy. I broke my foot and in addition to the boot I needed physical therapy three times a week. Then our sweet old dog Nick became very sick and needed around the clock care. We had to make the heart wrenching decision to put our boy to sleep. It was such a very sad time, I still miss him terribly. Our other dog, Miles, is just lost without his companion. It is very sad. Brennan woke up one night with a high fever and before long I was caring for a very sick little boy. He tested positive for Influenza B and was down for nearly nine days! We were practically drinking bleach in an effort to keep the illness at bay. Whatever I did worked because nobody else caught it! So to say I have been busy is an understatement!ion
The boys and I started Christmas vacation this afternoon. It is cold and windy and snowy. Winter has finally hit our area! I don't know about you, but warm comfort foods are a must on wintry days like this. As I snuggled on the couch under a blanket watching The Polar Express with the boys, I decided we needed a big pot of potato soup for dinner. Luckily I had all the fixings on hand so potato soup was on the menu!
This soup is easy to make, tastes amazing and is a crowd pleaser, kiddos included! I am not sure how much this makes as I do not really measure stuff out. Bryan had two bowls, I had one and the boys each had one small ladle full. I was still able to put the leftovers in a small plastic container so I am guessing 6 servings? You can always adjust the amounts for your needs.
Ingredients:
5 russet potatoes, baked and skinned
6 slices of bacon, reserve the grease
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic
4 tablespoons butter
2.5 cups half & half
2.5 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
2.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
salt, pepper, cayenne pepper to taste
sour cream, green onion for garnish, if desired
Directions:
1. Bake potatoes until fully cooked. Peel potatoes, mash well.
2. Cook bacon. Reserve a few slices for garnish, crumble the rest.
3. In a large pot heat up bacon grease. Add in diced onions and garlic and cook until tender.
4. Add in butter and cook until melted.
5. Add in potatoes, bacon crumbles, half & half, broth, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper. Heat all the way through, but do not boil.
6. Once heated, add in cheese, stirring well. Continue to simmer on low heat.
7. Ladle into bowls, adding sour cream, bits of reserved bacon, shredded cheddar and green onions as desired.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Saturday, October 27, 2012
The Switch Witch
Halloween is usually a fun filled holiday for children and adults alike. I mean, who doesn't enjoy dressing up in a crazy costume and getting free candy from all of your neighbors?! I have so many wonderful memories of trick-or-treating as a child. Back then we either made our costumes or we bought the cheap plastic costumes from Venture or Kmart. I fondly remember my homemade costumes like a black witch, Little Bo Peep and a clown. Best of all was coming home from a night of trick-or-treating, dumping out my loot and binging on sugary treats. Personally, I liked to sort out my candies into specific group. Chocolates like peanut butter cups, kisses, Twix, etc. were in the favorite pile. Next was the "OK" candy pile that consisted of treats like Skittles, Star Burst and Now & Laters. The crap pile was full of, well crap, like Raisinets, Smarties and Bit-o-Honey. The crap candy was always thrown away, the OK candy pile was placed in a bowl in the kitchen and the favorites were stashed in my room so I could gorge on them as I liked. I never once questioned whether scarfing down that Kit Kat or smuggling a Snickers would affect my health. I happily gobble away on sweets until my stomach ached and bounced off the wall on a sugar induced high. God, I loved Halloween!!
Fast forward to many, many years later. I am now the mom of a child with severe food allergies. Just one bite of an allergen can make my son very, very sick. Just one bite of an allergen can swell up his throat making breathing next to impossible. Just one bite can literally mean a matter of life and death. Trick or treating is still fun, but coming home to check out our loot is a totally different experience for Bryan and I. Instead of the favorite/OK/crap piles of treats, we have the safe/unsafe pile. Brennan must wait as Bryan and I carefully scour each and every label. Candies without an ingredient label are deemed unsafe. Treats that contain peanuts/tree nuts or are made in a facility with peanuts/tree nuts are totally out of the question. Most chocolates like Kit Kat and Twix are not safe. He is usually able to safely eat candies like Skittles, Start Burst and Nerds. While I am grateful he can at least enjoy those goodies, it is hard to watch his little face as I take all that candy away.
Thank goodness for the Switch Witch! Brennan places all of the unsafe candy in a bag and leaves it on the kitchen table. When he is fast asleep the Switch Witch comes in and takes all of that unsafe candy far away from our house (The candy usually finds its way to Bryan's work). In its place she leaves fun, safe goodies like pencils, fruit snacks, gummy worms, Rice Krispie treats and tattoos. Not only does Brennan get to celebrate Halloween, but he gets a bonus surprise from our beloved Switch Witch! Not many kids can say they have a super cool, super safe witch visit their house on Halloween!
For those of you reading who celebrate Halloween, please consider purchasing some safe treats so ALL trick-or-treaters can enjoy the fun and magic of Halloween. Pencils, fruit snacks, tattoos, Utz brand pretzels, individual baggies of Teddy Grahams or Oreos, Rice Krispie treats and even small containers of Play-doh are safe alternatives for kiddos with nut allergies. I always purchase Utz brand Halloween pretzels or fruit snacks as well as a non-food item like pencils. I do not ever want a child to miss out on the fun and excitement of being a kid on Halloween. This food allergy mom thanks you for considering this idea!
Fast forward to many, many years later. I am now the mom of a child with severe food allergies. Just one bite of an allergen can make my son very, very sick. Just one bite of an allergen can swell up his throat making breathing next to impossible. Just one bite can literally mean a matter of life and death. Trick or treating is still fun, but coming home to check out our loot is a totally different experience for Bryan and I. Instead of the favorite/OK/crap piles of treats, we have the safe/unsafe pile. Brennan must wait as Bryan and I carefully scour each and every label. Candies without an ingredient label are deemed unsafe. Treats that contain peanuts/tree nuts or are made in a facility with peanuts/tree nuts are totally out of the question. Most chocolates like Kit Kat and Twix are not safe. He is usually able to safely eat candies like Skittles, Start Burst and Nerds. While I am grateful he can at least enjoy those goodies, it is hard to watch his little face as I take all that candy away.
Thank goodness for the Switch Witch! Brennan places all of the unsafe candy in a bag and leaves it on the kitchen table. When he is fast asleep the Switch Witch comes in and takes all of that unsafe candy far away from our house (The candy usually finds its way to Bryan's work). In its place she leaves fun, safe goodies like pencils, fruit snacks, gummy worms, Rice Krispie treats and tattoos. Not only does Brennan get to celebrate Halloween, but he gets a bonus surprise from our beloved Switch Witch! Not many kids can say they have a super cool, super safe witch visit their house on Halloween!
For those of you reading who celebrate Halloween, please consider purchasing some safe treats so ALL trick-or-treaters can enjoy the fun and magic of Halloween. Pencils, fruit snacks, tattoos, Utz brand pretzels, individual baggies of Teddy Grahams or Oreos, Rice Krispie treats and even small containers of Play-doh are safe alternatives for kiddos with nut allergies. I always purchase Utz brand Halloween pretzels or fruit snacks as well as a non-food item like pencils. I do not ever want a child to miss out on the fun and excitement of being a kid on Halloween. This food allergy mom thanks you for considering this idea!
Monday, October 8, 2012
It Hurts!
My foot is killing me! It hurts so bad that I want to cry and at times I still get nauseated. I know I am supposed to be on rest, but that is hard to do! I have to get the boys ready for school each morning and that is like an hour long process. They are still little and depend on me for much of the morning routine. My house is a flipping disaster and I cannot do much about it. Dishes have to be washed and laundry has to be finished so I have to keep up on it. It is just never ending. I wear my boot, but that is not enough. I need like a week straight of total bedrest, but that is not going to happen anytime soon sadly. I worry about returning to work next week. How can I teach in such pain?!
I started researching some homeopathic approaches to healing and I came across some info on the use of arnica. I am desperate to find anything that will help me heal and ease my pain. I know this is not a quick fix and it will take time, but if the arnica aides in healing, why not try it? I see a visit to the nutrition store or Whole Foods in my future. I need relief!! Let's hope this pretty little yellow flower packs a punch in helping me feel better sooner!
I started researching some homeopathic approaches to healing and I came across some info on the use of arnica. I am desperate to find anything that will help me heal and ease my pain. I know this is not a quick fix and it will take time, but if the arnica aides in healing, why not try it? I see a visit to the nutrition store or Whole Foods in my future. I need relief!! Let's hope this pretty little yellow flower packs a punch in helping me feel better sooner!
It's Fall Y'All!
Autumn is officially here!! I have such a love/hate relationship with this season. I hate the fact that my beloved summer days are long gone. No more flip flops or lazy days in the pool or hot summer nights with a cool drink in hand. No more summer vacation...booooooo! I hate seeing the dark come earlier and earlier each evening (the boys like to play outside and this cut into play time!). I hate this season because it bring on asthma flair-ups, colds, viruses and the flu. I loath super cold temperatures and icy weather. Most of all, I hate this season because it is when I lost my father to cancer.
Despite all of my dislikes, I truly love this season for so many reasons. I love the absolute beauty of the rich colors around me. The trees turning bright hues of blazing orange, fire red and hazy yellow can bring a smile to my face. I love walking through crunchy fallen leaves. The boys love making piles of leaves and jumping in them. Apple picking and pumpkin picking at the local farms are always a family hit (we visit several farms during the season because I am so in love with farms!). I don't know about you, but sitting around a warm bonfire with a cold beer in my gloved hand is a favorite past time of mine. And pumpkin, let's not forget how many wonderful pumpkin items you can indulge in this time of the year! Pumpkin lattes, pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, pumpkin beer......YUM! Of course we always celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving, with Thanksgiving being one of my favorites. My birthday is on Thanksgiving this year! I don't want to get another year older, but I sure do like a whole day to indulge! I love Thanksgiving because it is a time to truly reflect on just how very blessed we are. The smells of autumn are some of the best around: apple crisp, cinnamon, burning leaves, frosty air, vanilla. When it is just too cold outside for a bonfire we light up the fireplace and snuggle in warm blankets and jammies. While I love my flip flop I also love slipping into my boots (Although this year I am not going to wear my heeled boots due to my broken foot. Guess I need to shop for some flats!). Knowing that my father is gone rips my heart in two, but this season also brings me some quiet times to stop, remember and reflect and for these moments I am grateful for the season that makes me slow down and think.
Here is to another season of natural beauty. Enjoy what the Earth gives us!
Despite all of my dislikes, I truly love this season for so many reasons. I love the absolute beauty of the rich colors around me. The trees turning bright hues of blazing orange, fire red and hazy yellow can bring a smile to my face. I love walking through crunchy fallen leaves. The boys love making piles of leaves and jumping in them. Apple picking and pumpkin picking at the local farms are always a family hit (we visit several farms during the season because I am so in love with farms!). I don't know about you, but sitting around a warm bonfire with a cold beer in my gloved hand is a favorite past time of mine. And pumpkin, let's not forget how many wonderful pumpkin items you can indulge in this time of the year! Pumpkin lattes, pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, pumpkin beer......YUM! Of course we always celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving, with Thanksgiving being one of my favorites. My birthday is on Thanksgiving this year! I don't want to get another year older, but I sure do like a whole day to indulge! I love Thanksgiving because it is a time to truly reflect on just how very blessed we are. The smells of autumn are some of the best around: apple crisp, cinnamon, burning leaves, frosty air, vanilla. When it is just too cold outside for a bonfire we light up the fireplace and snuggle in warm blankets and jammies. While I love my flip flop I also love slipping into my boots (Although this year I am not going to wear my heeled boots due to my broken foot. Guess I need to shop for some flats!). Knowing that my father is gone rips my heart in two, but this season also brings me some quiet times to stop, remember and reflect and for these moments I am grateful for the season that makes me slow down and think.
Here is to another season of natural beauty. Enjoy what the Earth gives us!
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Recipe: Cookies & Cream Popcorn
I am stuck at home, for the most part, so I have found myself having the munchies quite a lot. I'm trying not to eat as I cannot exercise much, but let's face it, I need some comfort food!! A friend of mine passed along this popcorn recipe a few weeks ago so on Friday night I decided to cave in and make this sweet treat. Holy goodness is this stuff delicious and addicting!! I cannot stop eating it. I bet I gain 6lbs from this popcorn! You have to make this, share if need be, but make this! I promise you will love it. And if for some odd reason you hate it, I promise I'll be a good friend and come take it off your hands (and pile it upon my thighs!).
Ingredients
Oil of your choice (I used about 2 TB coconut oil)
Popcorn (I didn't measure, just enough to cover the bottom of the pot)
24 Oreos, crushed
16oz white chocolate, melted
Directions
1. In a large pot heat up about 2TB of oil. Once heated, pour in popcorn kernels. Shake the corn a few times to evenly coat. Soon the corn will start to pop!
2. When the popcorn is fully popped (be sure not to burn it!), remove it from the pot and place it in a large bowl. Be sure to discard as many unpopped kernels as possible.
3. In a Ziploc baggie or food processor, crumble Oreos into a fine crumble. Toss crumbled Oreos on top of the popcorn.
4. In a microwave safe bowl, begin to melt the white chocolate. Be careful to not scorch the chocolate! When fully melted, pour the chocolate onto the popcorn. Using a large spoon mix everything together well. The chocolate will stick to Oreo and then stick to the popcorn. You will have to mix for a few minutes to ensure it all mixes.
5. Let the popcorn sit until the chocolate firmly sets. You can also place the popcorn in the fridge.
Store in an air tight container. I stored half of the batch in the fridge because I like my chocolate cold. I stored the other half on the counter. Either way is amazing! Be sure to take out as many unpopped kernels as possible; believe me, your teeth will thank you for that extra step!! Enjoy!!
Ingredients
Oil of your choice (I used about 2 TB coconut oil)
Popcorn (I didn't measure, just enough to cover the bottom of the pot)
24 Oreos, crushed
16oz white chocolate, melted
Directions
1. In a large pot heat up about 2TB of oil. Once heated, pour in popcorn kernels. Shake the corn a few times to evenly coat. Soon the corn will start to pop!
2. When the popcorn is fully popped (be sure not to burn it!), remove it from the pot and place it in a large bowl. Be sure to discard as many unpopped kernels as possible.
3. In a Ziploc baggie or food processor, crumble Oreos into a fine crumble. Toss crumbled Oreos on top of the popcorn.
4. In a microwave safe bowl, begin to melt the white chocolate. Be careful to not scorch the chocolate! When fully melted, pour the chocolate onto the popcorn. Using a large spoon mix everything together well. The chocolate will stick to Oreo and then stick to the popcorn. You will have to mix for a few minutes to ensure it all mixes.
5. Let the popcorn sit until the chocolate firmly sets. You can also place the popcorn in the fridge.
Store in an air tight container. I stored half of the batch in the fridge because I like my chocolate cold. I stored the other half on the counter. Either way is amazing! Be sure to take out as many unpopped kernels as possible; believe me, your teeth will thank you for that extra step!! Enjoy!!
Cruel Foods
I broke my foot and ripped a bunch of tendons and ligaments on Monday night so for the last several days I've been sitting on the couch nursing a painful foot while playing on-line, catching up on old recorded Grey's Anatomy reruns and napping. I'll fully admit, I've been reading/playing a lot on the computer, mostly mindless fun stuff. This morning I logged on the computer as usual and an article on Yahoo caught my eye. As I read the article I wanted to cry/puke/quit reading but at the same time I thought, "I must share this!". It is no secret that I am a vegetarian. It all started almost two years ago when I watched a documentary about vegans. I am not vegan (I love my ice cream and yogurt too much), but I consider myself a pretty healthful and conscious shopper/eater. True, my family is a bunch of meat eaters and yes it does bother me to a point, but they do eat a lot of meatless meals these days. In fact, as I was making out our weekly dinner menu I realized of five planned meals, four are meatless! Anyway, I thought this article was worth reading and sharing and I hope you all take something away from it. Whether you become more health conscious or you make small changes to items you buy or decide to take a stand against animal cruelty, it is all a small step in the right direction.
I want to clearly note that I take absolutely zero credit for any of this information. I'll highlight some of the real eye opening information, but I'll also provide a link to the whole article. Enjoy!
According to the article, there are eight foods that are deemed some of the cruelest foods in our world. I'll admit, I didn't recognize some of the foods, but that doesn't make the cruelty towards the living creatures any less horrific. As you happily munch away on your egg omelet or your mouth begins to salivate at the mere thought of indulging in a little exotic cuisine, think about how that dish got from the farm or field to your plate........
1. Lobster: Lobsters can feel pain and distress (duh!). Some restaurants serve an awful dish called Lobster Sashimi where the lobster is served on your plate still alive and in pain from the slit down its middle. Who would want to eat that?! Lobsters living in tanks at the grocery store or restaurant also feel distress as they are placed in unnatural surroundings.
2. Shark: While I've never eaten Shark Fin Soup, I have heard of it. Apparently they slice off the fin of the shark and then toss him back into the ocean where he bleeds to death and/or drowns.
3. Veal: This one really bothered me. Baby cows, usually males because they cannot produce milk, are taken from their momma when they are only a few days old. They are force-fed milk and formula and not allowed to move around in a crate that is so small the baby cannot even turn around. Around five months of age the baby is slaughtered so human can feast on ultra tender meat. Ugh, that is so heartless!
4. Foie Gras: I've never eaten this and never will! Basically it is goose or duck liver. In order to get the liver so fatty, workers restrain the poor bird, shove a tube into its stomach and force feed it several pounds of corn daily. After a month or so of this cruel act, the bird is slaughtered for your fancy meal.
5. Eggs: Many chickens live in dark, super cramped buildings that do not even allow the birds space to spread their wings or walk. They are so cramped they defecate on their own feet and bodies as they are pumped full of processed grains. Chickens have high salmonella rates due to defecating on the floor and living in such squalor.
6. Balut: I've never heard of this dish, but damn did it turn my stomach when I read what it is. Basically a duck lays an egg. When the egg contains a semi-formed baby duck (yes, feathers, bones, etc) it is cracked open. The consumer drinks the liquid from the egg and then scoops out the baby duck to eat. Gag, gag, gag! There was a balut eating contest in Brooklyn this past summer and the winner ate 18 of these baby ducks!
7. Beef: I could write a book on cows. Let's start with the genetically modified grains they are fed. How about the hormones they are pumped with that cause infections which are treated with antibiotics? How about the bolt that goes through their heads in the slaughter house? Or maybe we should talk about the electric prods they are zapped with. Should I go on?
8. Pork: Have you ever heard of a gestational crate? Basically a pig is placed in a small crate a couple of feet wide and it endures constant impregnation. Only four states in the US have banned this process. How does that bacon taste now?
I just cannot justify forcing tubes of corn into a bird's stomach or ripping a baby from its mommy days after after he is born all to feed me. There are so many humane ways to treat animals and not to mention our world is full of healthy plant based foods that can provide a great deal of nutrition, all free of animal cruelty. Here is the link to the complete article along with some facts and ideas for alternatives: http://health.yahoo.net/articles/nutrition/photos/8-cruelest-foods-you-eat#0
I want to clearly note that I take absolutely zero credit for any of this information. I'll highlight some of the real eye opening information, but I'll also provide a link to the whole article. Enjoy!
According to the article, there are eight foods that are deemed some of the cruelest foods in our world. I'll admit, I didn't recognize some of the foods, but that doesn't make the cruelty towards the living creatures any less horrific. As you happily munch away on your egg omelet or your mouth begins to salivate at the mere thought of indulging in a little exotic cuisine, think about how that dish got from the farm or field to your plate........
1. Lobster: Lobsters can feel pain and distress (duh!). Some restaurants serve an awful dish called Lobster Sashimi where the lobster is served on your plate still alive and in pain from the slit down its middle. Who would want to eat that?! Lobsters living in tanks at the grocery store or restaurant also feel distress as they are placed in unnatural surroundings.
2. Shark: While I've never eaten Shark Fin Soup, I have heard of it. Apparently they slice off the fin of the shark and then toss him back into the ocean where he bleeds to death and/or drowns.
3. Veal: This one really bothered me. Baby cows, usually males because they cannot produce milk, are taken from their momma when they are only a few days old. They are force-fed milk and formula and not allowed to move around in a crate that is so small the baby cannot even turn around. Around five months of age the baby is slaughtered so human can feast on ultra tender meat. Ugh, that is so heartless!
4. Foie Gras: I've never eaten this and never will! Basically it is goose or duck liver. In order to get the liver so fatty, workers restrain the poor bird, shove a tube into its stomach and force feed it several pounds of corn daily. After a month or so of this cruel act, the bird is slaughtered for your fancy meal.
5. Eggs: Many chickens live in dark, super cramped buildings that do not even allow the birds space to spread their wings or walk. They are so cramped they defecate on their own feet and bodies as they are pumped full of processed grains. Chickens have high salmonella rates due to defecating on the floor and living in such squalor.
6. Balut: I've never heard of this dish, but damn did it turn my stomach when I read what it is. Basically a duck lays an egg. When the egg contains a semi-formed baby duck (yes, feathers, bones, etc) it is cracked open. The consumer drinks the liquid from the egg and then scoops out the baby duck to eat. Gag, gag, gag! There was a balut eating contest in Brooklyn this past summer and the winner ate 18 of these baby ducks!
7. Beef: I could write a book on cows. Let's start with the genetically modified grains they are fed. How about the hormones they are pumped with that cause infections which are treated with antibiotics? How about the bolt that goes through their heads in the slaughter house? Or maybe we should talk about the electric prods they are zapped with. Should I go on?
8. Pork: Have you ever heard of a gestational crate? Basically a pig is placed in a small crate a couple of feet wide and it endures constant impregnation. Only four states in the US have banned this process. How does that bacon taste now?
I just cannot justify forcing tubes of corn into a bird's stomach or ripping a baby from its mommy days after after he is born all to feed me. There are so many humane ways to treat animals and not to mention our world is full of healthy plant based foods that can provide a great deal of nutrition, all free of animal cruelty. Here is the link to the complete article along with some facts and ideas for alternatives: http://health.yahoo.net/articles/nutrition/photos/8-cruelest-foods-you-eat#0
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Augusta
I absolutely love the little town of Augusta! I would move there in a heartbeat if we could find the perfect house (and sell ours of course!). In August we took the boys blackberry picking at my favorite local farm, Centennial Farms. Bryan and I made the decision to spend our 10 year wedding anniversary at a bed & breakfast in Augusta complete with plans to hit up all the wineries and breweries as well as explore the stores and shops. Sadly we didn't get the opportunity to do this and we had to cancel the reservations at the B&B. I was so upset, but we had a family obligation that we just couldn't pass. We took the boys apple picking in mid-August at Eckert's. Due to the extreme weather we had this past winter, spring and summer, the apple crops were ready weeks ahead of schedule. When we went apple picking it was really hot so it didn't even feel like the traditional apple picking we usually do each season. The temps have finally cooled a bit and the later blooming apple varieties are still in season so I loaded everyone up and we headed back out to Centennial Farms for some more apple picking!
We pretty much had the farm to ourselves when we arrived. Our first stop was looking at the bee hive inside the old farmhouse. There must have been hundreds of bees hard at work to make honey. There is a little tube outside the house that allows the bees to travel in and out of their nest. We tried to find the queen but there were just too many bees!
Next we headed out to the tractor. We had to wait a few minutes for the tractor, but this neat little tree kept the boys occupied with questions. We found an old rotted apple in the grass next to the Johnny Appleseed tree so Bryan cut it open and Brennan collected the seeds in his pocket. We are going to plant the seed, keep it indoors over the winter and see about planting it in the backyard next to our apple tree.
The tractor with the hay ride finally arrived so we boarded the wagon and headed off to the apple orchards. What a cute little bunch of apple pickers! Here's a rare shot of me with the boys! I hate having my picture taken, but this was just too fun of a day to stay hidden behind the camera.
The boys were crazy excited to get into the fields and start picking apples. Today we picked Empire, Golden Delicious and Jonathan varieties.
After we picked our apples we headed over to the play land. It was free this weekend, but in two weeks it will be transformed into a pumpkin land. Again, we had the whole play area pretty much to ourselves. The boys had fun going through the mazes, sliding down the slides and climbing the hay bales.
After the played we decided to take a stroll through the town of Augusta. I fell in love with this quaint little B&B! Look at how pretty this little place is! I want to see the inside of this home, I bet it is beautiful!
The next few pictures are just some random houses around the town of Augusta. I think one of them is another B&B, but I am not positive. I just love how old and beautiful these homes look. This little town is so rich in history and beauty.
After our little stroll through Augusta we headed back to the car and took a drive through the winding roads. I know many people who hear the word "Missouri" and they snottily turn up their noses at the idea of stepping foot in the state. Who could resist this serene country side view? I would love to live on this farm! These two pictures do not do the land justice! Thank you Augusta for yet another memorable time in your beautiful land! I cannot wait to return in October when the air is crisper & cooler, the leaves are hues of red, yellow & orange and the pumpkins are ready for picking!
I know my family is awfully good looking, but please do not copy/reprint/reproduce our pictures! Thank you!
Next we headed out to the tractor. We had to wait a few minutes for the tractor, but this neat little tree kept the boys occupied with questions. We found an old rotted apple in the grass next to the Johnny Appleseed tree so Bryan cut it open and Brennan collected the seeds in his pocket. We are going to plant the seed, keep it indoors over the winter and see about planting it in the backyard next to our apple tree.
The boys were crazy excited to get into the fields and start picking apples. Today we picked Empire, Golden Delicious and Jonathan varieties.
After we picked our apples we headed over to the play land. It was free this weekend, but in two weeks it will be transformed into a pumpkin land. Again, we had the whole play area pretty much to ourselves. The boys had fun going through the mazes, sliding down the slides and climbing the hay bales.
After the played we decided to take a stroll through the town of Augusta. I fell in love with this quaint little B&B! Look at how pretty this little place is! I want to see the inside of this home, I bet it is beautiful!
Look at this amazing church! It dates back to the 1800's! The structure still looked in great shape after all these years. Alex wanted his picture taken on the steps of the church.
After our little stroll through Augusta we headed back to the car and took a drive through the winding roads. I know many people who hear the word "Missouri" and they snottily turn up their noses at the idea of stepping foot in the state. Who could resist this serene country side view? I would love to live on this farm! These two pictures do not do the land justice! Thank you Augusta for yet another memorable time in your beautiful land! I cannot wait to return in October when the air is crisper & cooler, the leaves are hues of red, yellow & orange and the pumpkins are ready for picking!
I know my family is awfully good looking, but please do not copy/reprint/reproduce our pictures! Thank you!
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Sick
I subscribe to a newsletter from Dr. Mercola. I am not even sure how I landed on his web site, but I've been getting his almost daily newsletters for at least four years now. I do not always read them, but sometimes an article really sands out to me. The other morning I opened my newsletter and found an article about about European health versus American health. I am always a health nut, but I'm especially aware of illness this time of the year as it is the start of the cold & flu season. I opened the article expecting to read about colds and immunity and remedies, but instead I read about how the food we eat is potentially making us ill. It was quite interesting!
Obviously I cannot nor do I want to retype the entire article, but here are some key points from Dr. Mercola:
1. Americans get more sick more often than other industrialized nations in the world. Some researchers believe this increase in illness is linked to the consumption of Genetically Engineered (GE)/Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO).
2. The US government says GE/GMO foods are perfectly safe, however researchers are finding links with increased allergies, birth defects, increased cancer rates, infertility and mutations to name a few.
3. US livestock is now becoming infected with a mysterious ailment called "Sudden Death Syndrome".
4. GE/GMO foods are viewed as invaders in our bodies. This is leading to increased immune responses while is virtually attacking our bodies/immune systems.
Here are some very alarming stats from the article:
- According to the CDC, Autism is affects one in 88 children as opposed to one in 25,000 children (in the mid-1970's).
- Between 1980 and 2010, Type II Diabetes rose more than 176%.
- Celiac Disease is now four times more common as compared to 60 years ago.
- The rate of Amercians with Alzheimer's Disease have doubled since 1980. One in eight older Americans have AD.
What an alarming article!! Some people may argue that we see so many more cases of Autism because we know how to diagnose it better than we did in 1975. Some will say that more seniors are affected by Alzheimer's Disease because we live longer, fuller lives as compared to decades ago. I agree with that to a certain extent however I 100% believe our food plays a major part in our health and wellness outcome. GE/GMO are clearly labeled in Europe and most Europeans opt for the the "natural" food items. Sadly, our foods are being pumped full of hormones & antibiotics and their genetic makeup is being manipulated and modified yet not a single box or bag or label alerts the consumer of the modifications. We deserve to know what is being put into our foods.
Today we went apple picking and took a nice drive through the country. As the boys happily crunched away on their fresh apples I couldn't help but wonder what were they really putting into their tummies. Sure it looked and smelled and it certainly tasted like an apple, but how much pesticide residue was left on the skin? How different was that particular apple's composition as compared to say an apple that Johnny Appleseed planted in 1812? As we drove through the country my eyes fell upon corn and soybean crops as well as pigs and cows and chickens in the farmland. It made me so sad and extremely angry to know the animals were even mutated as compared to decades ago. When will this stop? What has to be done before someone somewhere puts a halt on this insanity? I told Bryan I wish we had enough money to build a farm and fill it full of organic, all natural foods, the way nature intended us to eat. A girl can dream....
If you do not already subscribe to Dr. Mercola, I strongly encourage you to do so! I visit the site every so often and I skim the daily newsletters for interesting articles. Some things I pass by, but a lot of the articles and videos are quite educational and interesting. Enjoy! http://www.mercola.com/
Obviously I cannot nor do I want to retype the entire article, but here are some key points from Dr. Mercola:
1. Americans get more sick more often than other industrialized nations in the world. Some researchers believe this increase in illness is linked to the consumption of Genetically Engineered (GE)/Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO).
2. The US government says GE/GMO foods are perfectly safe, however researchers are finding links with increased allergies, birth defects, increased cancer rates, infertility and mutations to name a few.
3. US livestock is now becoming infected with a mysterious ailment called "Sudden Death Syndrome".
4. GE/GMO foods are viewed as invaders in our bodies. This is leading to increased immune responses while is virtually attacking our bodies/immune systems.
Here are some very alarming stats from the article:
- According to the CDC, Autism is affects one in 88 children as opposed to one in 25,000 children (in the mid-1970's).
- Between 1980 and 2010, Type II Diabetes rose more than 176%.
- Celiac Disease is now four times more common as compared to 60 years ago.
- The rate of Amercians with Alzheimer's Disease have doubled since 1980. One in eight older Americans have AD.
What an alarming article!! Some people may argue that we see so many more cases of Autism because we know how to diagnose it better than we did in 1975. Some will say that more seniors are affected by Alzheimer's Disease because we live longer, fuller lives as compared to decades ago. I agree with that to a certain extent however I 100% believe our food plays a major part in our health and wellness outcome. GE/GMO are clearly labeled in Europe and most Europeans opt for the the "natural" food items. Sadly, our foods are being pumped full of hormones & antibiotics and their genetic makeup is being manipulated and modified yet not a single box or bag or label alerts the consumer of the modifications. We deserve to know what is being put into our foods.
Today we went apple picking and took a nice drive through the country. As the boys happily crunched away on their fresh apples I couldn't help but wonder what were they really putting into their tummies. Sure it looked and smelled and it certainly tasted like an apple, but how much pesticide residue was left on the skin? How different was that particular apple's composition as compared to say an apple that Johnny Appleseed planted in 1812? As we drove through the country my eyes fell upon corn and soybean crops as well as pigs and cows and chickens in the farmland. It made me so sad and extremely angry to know the animals were even mutated as compared to decades ago. When will this stop? What has to be done before someone somewhere puts a halt on this insanity? I told Bryan I wish we had enough money to build a farm and fill it full of organic, all natural foods, the way nature intended us to eat. A girl can dream....
If you do not already subscribe to Dr. Mercola, I strongly encourage you to do so! I visit the site every so often and I skim the daily newsletters for interesting articles. Some things I pass by, but a lot of the articles and videos are quite educational and interesting. Enjoy! http://www.mercola.com/
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Recipe: High Protein Pancake Muffins
The boys and I are back to school and our regular school time schedule is back in full swing. I'm up every day at 5:45am to get ready. Brennan is up at 6:15am because it takes him so long to wake up each morning. While he tries to wake up, I start breakfast which is served about 6:30am. Alex gets up, we eat, the boys get dressed, brush their teeth and we are out the door at 7:15am. Alex goes to our cousin's house two days a week and attends preschool three days a week. I pack a load of food for Alex to take to our cousin's house so I don't really care if he eats breakfast at home because I know he will graze the whole time he is there! When Alex is at preschool he eats a healthy snack at 9:30am and he eats lunch at 11:00am so again, I know he will have access to good food to fill his tummy. Brennan and I are a different story. Brennan eats lunch at 11:10am; that is a 4.5 hour gap between breakfast and lunch. I walk into my own classroom and I don't stop until noon. I may be able to sneak a quick snack in while the children are at recess, but even then that is rare because I am cleaning, pulling in book bags, answering emails, etc. I know that eating breakfast is vital, but nothing is sticking with us to keep us satisfied until lunch! I started making protein drinks for Brennan and I to sip on the drive to school. He has his drink finished around 7:40am so I feel better knowing that not only does he have a full belly from breakfast, but he also has a tummy full of 20g of protein drink made with low-fat milk. Now he only has a 3.5 hour gap between meals. He tells me he feels full and isn't hungry in the mornings so it must be working! Alex refuses to drink the protein drinks so that just leaves more for us!
A few weeks ago I stumbled upon a recipe for a high protein pancake muffin. I was skeptical at first thinking it must be filled with sugar or some type of additive, but I was pleasantly surprised with the ingredients. The nice thing about this recipe is you can change up the type of breakfast meat. For the batch I made I used maple sausage links and veggie bacon, but you could easily used crumbled sausage, pork bacon, diced ham, etc. The boys tore these "muffins" up!! They freeze very well so I've been able to cook these up in the morning for a quick, hot, healthy breakfast that is full of protein to fill the tummy. Best of all, they are so easy and fast to make! According to my friend who created this recipe, it is high protein based on the fact the liquid is limited and the protein from the greek yogurt, extra eggs and meat bulk it up.
Ingredients:
3 cups oat pancake mix (I used Quaker brand, but regular mix would still work, not as much protein)
1/2 cup milk
1 cup greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
4 eggs
3/4 cup pure maple syrup
breakfast meat of your choice
Directions:
1. Mix the first five ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
2. Line a mini-muffin pan (or regular sized muffin pan, your choice) with liners or spritz with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Fill the muffins 2/3 of a way full with pancake batter.
4. Place meat into each muffin tin.
5. Bake on 350 degrees for about 15 minutes or until fully done.
Note on the meat: When I used the links, I sliced one link into fourths. I placed one piece in each mini-muffin and two pieces in each regular sized muffin. I pressed the links into the batter so the muffin would form around the meat, but you can just place the crumbed meat on top (some might sink into the batter, but some will stay on top).
A great big thank you to my friend Tonya for posting this recipe!! It is a new family favorite!
A few weeks ago I stumbled upon a recipe for a high protein pancake muffin. I was skeptical at first thinking it must be filled with sugar or some type of additive, but I was pleasantly surprised with the ingredients. The nice thing about this recipe is you can change up the type of breakfast meat. For the batch I made I used maple sausage links and veggie bacon, but you could easily used crumbled sausage, pork bacon, diced ham, etc. The boys tore these "muffins" up!! They freeze very well so I've been able to cook these up in the morning for a quick, hot, healthy breakfast that is full of protein to fill the tummy. Best of all, they are so easy and fast to make! According to my friend who created this recipe, it is high protein based on the fact the liquid is limited and the protein from the greek yogurt, extra eggs and meat bulk it up.
Ingredients:
3 cups oat pancake mix (I used Quaker brand, but regular mix would still work, not as much protein)
1/2 cup milk
1 cup greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
4 eggs
3/4 cup pure maple syrup
breakfast meat of your choice
Directions:
1. Mix the first five ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
2. Line a mini-muffin pan (or regular sized muffin pan, your choice) with liners or spritz with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Fill the muffins 2/3 of a way full with pancake batter.
4. Place meat into each muffin tin.
5. Bake on 350 degrees for about 15 minutes or until fully done.
Note on the meat: When I used the links, I sliced one link into fourths. I placed one piece in each mini-muffin and two pieces in each regular sized muffin. I pressed the links into the batter so the muffin would form around the meat, but you can just place the crumbed meat on top (some might sink into the batter, but some will stay on top).
A great big thank you to my friend Tonya for posting this recipe!! It is a new family favorite!
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Hungry in America
A few weeks ago I met a friend for coffee at a cute little coffee house in our neighborhood. We love going to this coffee house because not only are the drinks and delish, but the ambiance is so quaint and friendly. We can sit inside by the fire on a cold winter's night or enjoy the summer heat on the decked out patio. We also have a great time laughing, talking, drinking and eating here. My friend cozied up to her tea as I walked over with a slice of red velvet cake and two forks. She tried a bit and made the comment that the cake was really good. I said something about getting a slice to take home to which she replied, "I can't, I'm on a really tight budget." We started talking and I soon learned that money was beyond tight for my dear friend. It has come down to paying bills or eating.
Now, some of you may say, "Well, she was at a coffee house for goodness sake! She must not be to needy!". She had just been paid that day and was enjoying an all you care to refill $1.99 cup of tea. This would likely be her treat for the week. Last year her husband lost his job from a company he had worked at for many years. Money was decent, they had benefits, life was going as planned. Their children were grown with one a college graduate and the other close behind. They didn't spend a lot of money, but they were comfortable. Once her husband lost his job they faced some set backs, especially in the area of insurance. My friend ended up getting a second job so she could help make the ends meet. Luckily her husband found a job, but the pay was not great. A few months into the job, he was jobless once again. He searched and searched and finally landed a job in a very small company. In this society small companies do not thrive too well and before they knew it he was jobless again. Three jobs in less than 12 months. This time he hasn't been successful in obtaining a job. Grocery store, home improvement stores and restaurants will not hire him because he is too qualified. Too many people are competing for jobs in the field he is in and quite honestly they are hiring younger, cheaper, less experienced workers because they do not have to pay them as much. At this point they make just enough money to pay for the house and utilities, but buying food s getting harder and harder. The do not qualify for assistance because they do make some money.
Tonight I logged on the computer to check my email and an article about going hungry in the USA appeared. It was so sad to read about all of these families who are having to pick medicine over food, people who do not eat lunch most days; one mother said she waters down the milk to make it last longer. In this great land of opportunity we have hungry bellies that shouldn't be hungry. What is happening when one must choose the water bill over eating breakfast?How have we gotten to this point?It not only saddens me, it angers me that we have so many needy families yet it doesn't seem like much is going on to help. Earlier this week a Senator from my state made some really stupid and hurtful comments about rape victims. The whole nation appears to be in an uproar over his words (rightfully so) and the media has been covering it left and right. I read an article that said backers and supporters are pulling their funds from this man....one article said a supporter pulled TWO MILLION DOLLARS from his campaign! TWO MILLION DOLLARS??!! I was so disgusted when I read that. I cannot believe anyone in their right mind would donate 2 MILLION DOLLARS to help fund political commercials, sell ads and help pay travel expenses of a Senator. How about taking that money and buying fresh fruits and veggies and leans meats and low fat dairy for the hungry children in our state? I wish the media would cover the real news of the nation, hungry families, as much as they are covering this political circus. Maybe if we had news stories and commentaries on school aged children who are starving or the elderly man who buys his antibiotics instead of bananas, just maybe people wouldn't be as needy. Someone somewhere will say something about "why should I pay for people who can't get off their lazy butts....". This isn't about people cheating the system (yes, I am aware some people do this), this is about the working poor, the people who are struggling to make ends meet and are still coming up a few inches short. There has to be a way to help these people! I want to help. I need to help, but I am just not sure what to do. I've been searching Operation Food Bank, Food Outreach and even some local Catholic churches to see if there is some type of volunteer work I can start, especially with autumn & winter just around the corner. After reading the article I walked into the kitchen and looked at the pantry filled with beans, pasta, rice, cereal and other kitchen staples. We have milk, cheeses, yogurt, veggies and fruits. If we were bound to our home we could easily survive days on end with what we have. This made me think about how often I run to the store for extra milk or more kiwi....what if we decided to not go to the store, but instead work our way through the entire stash of dried goods we have in stock? I would have to get creative at some meals, but it is totally do able. I think that will be the next two weeks challenge, eating only from what we have on hand, no extra trips to the store. This could really turn interesting and would be a great learning experience for our family. It certainly would show us once again how very lucky and blessed we are.
Here's a link to the story in case you are interested: http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/going-hungry-america-distressing-humbling-scary-011618014.html
Now, some of you may say, "Well, she was at a coffee house for goodness sake! She must not be to needy!". She had just been paid that day and was enjoying an all you care to refill $1.99 cup of tea. This would likely be her treat for the week. Last year her husband lost his job from a company he had worked at for many years. Money was decent, they had benefits, life was going as planned. Their children were grown with one a college graduate and the other close behind. They didn't spend a lot of money, but they were comfortable. Once her husband lost his job they faced some set backs, especially in the area of insurance. My friend ended up getting a second job so she could help make the ends meet. Luckily her husband found a job, but the pay was not great. A few months into the job, he was jobless once again. He searched and searched and finally landed a job in a very small company. In this society small companies do not thrive too well and before they knew it he was jobless again. Three jobs in less than 12 months. This time he hasn't been successful in obtaining a job. Grocery store, home improvement stores and restaurants will not hire him because he is too qualified. Too many people are competing for jobs in the field he is in and quite honestly they are hiring younger, cheaper, less experienced workers because they do not have to pay them as much. At this point they make just enough money to pay for the house and utilities, but buying food s getting harder and harder. The do not qualify for assistance because they do make some money.
Tonight I logged on the computer to check my email and an article about going hungry in the USA appeared. It was so sad to read about all of these families who are having to pick medicine over food, people who do not eat lunch most days; one mother said she waters down the milk to make it last longer. In this great land of opportunity we have hungry bellies that shouldn't be hungry. What is happening when one must choose the water bill over eating breakfast?How have we gotten to this point?It not only saddens me, it angers me that we have so many needy families yet it doesn't seem like much is going on to help. Earlier this week a Senator from my state made some really stupid and hurtful comments about rape victims. The whole nation appears to be in an uproar over his words (rightfully so) and the media has been covering it left and right. I read an article that said backers and supporters are pulling their funds from this man....one article said a supporter pulled TWO MILLION DOLLARS from his campaign! TWO MILLION DOLLARS??!! I was so disgusted when I read that. I cannot believe anyone in their right mind would donate 2 MILLION DOLLARS to help fund political commercials, sell ads and help pay travel expenses of a Senator. How about taking that money and buying fresh fruits and veggies and leans meats and low fat dairy for the hungry children in our state? I wish the media would cover the real news of the nation, hungry families, as much as they are covering this political circus. Maybe if we had news stories and commentaries on school aged children who are starving or the elderly man who buys his antibiotics instead of bananas, just maybe people wouldn't be as needy. Someone somewhere will say something about "why should I pay for people who can't get off their lazy butts....". This isn't about people cheating the system (yes, I am aware some people do this), this is about the working poor, the people who are struggling to make ends meet and are still coming up a few inches short. There has to be a way to help these people! I want to help. I need to help, but I am just not sure what to do. I've been searching Operation Food Bank, Food Outreach and even some local Catholic churches to see if there is some type of volunteer work I can start, especially with autumn & winter just around the corner. After reading the article I walked into the kitchen and looked at the pantry filled with beans, pasta, rice, cereal and other kitchen staples. We have milk, cheeses, yogurt, veggies and fruits. If we were bound to our home we could easily survive days on end with what we have. This made me think about how often I run to the store for extra milk or more kiwi....what if we decided to not go to the store, but instead work our way through the entire stash of dried goods we have in stock? I would have to get creative at some meals, but it is totally do able. I think that will be the next two weeks challenge, eating only from what we have on hand, no extra trips to the store. This could really turn interesting and would be a great learning experience for our family. It certainly would show us once again how very lucky and blessed we are.
Here's a link to the story in case you are interested: http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/going-hungry-america-distressing-humbling-scary-011618014.html
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Around Town
Believe it or not, my summer is quickly coming to an end. Next week is my last full week of summer vacation, then it is back to school meetings on August 2nd. This summer went by too damn fast for me!! I want to rewind to June and replay my summer in slow motion!
As much as I hate to admit that my summer is slipping away, I cannot help but think about what lies ahead (it is the teacher in me!). Before we know it, the boys and I will start back to school and our lives will fall into that mundane Monday-Friday schedule. I decided to create family fun weekends around town in an effort to not only break up the busy work/school week, but to also make awesome family memories with the boys.
We are very lucky to live in such a great state. Missouri has so much to see and to explore and many of the attractions are free or low cost. With the boys older, we can drive father distances and they can engage in a lot more than in years past. I cannot wait to start our little "go and see it" activities! So far I have planned:
1. Big Cedar Lodge: We've never been here before, but I seriously cannot wait to get here! There is everything from horseback riding to hiking to campfires to fishing to stargazing. Even if they didn't have a single event available, the pictures alone of this place would have sold me! Several friends have stayed here and said it was worth every penny spent.
2. Elephant Rock State Park: Elephant Rock is part of the Missouri State Parks. I remember going here with my parents when I was a little girl; my brother and I had great fun climbing over and in between these giant boulders. There are trails and hiking, something the boys really enjoy. I want to go here when the leaves are at their peak colors so we can capture some great pictures.
3. Lambert's Cafe: I really want to go here, but I need to call and check about food allergies first. Fingers crossed that we will be able to eat here! This is the famous "home of the throwed rolls" restaurant. Bryan has been here with his family many years ago and would love to return. The menu is a very southern style menu offering massive amounts of food such as fried chicken, BBQ ribs, country ham, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, fried okra and black eyed peas. And of course, throwed rolls!
4. Endangered Wolf Center: Alex is obsessed with wolves and coyotes. I happily discovered the Endangered Wolf Center offers an evening event called "Campfire Wolf Howl". During this time visitors walk 1/2 mile around the center and try to get the wolves to howl back plus you get to hear stories around a campfire. Alex is going to LOVE this, I cannot wait to take him!
5. Apple & Pumpkin Picking: We always visit several farms such as Centennial Farms, Eckert's Stuckmeyer's Farm and Thies Farm. I cannot get enough of the autumn activities so I try to visit as many of these local farms as possible!
6. Haunted Hayride: Eckert's offers a kid friendly haunted hayride on Friday and Saturday nights from mid-September through Halloween. The boys love Halloween so I think they will really like this event.
7. Camping: We try to go camping each year. I am not into camping, in fact I usually only last about 16-20 hours, but I am trying! I like camping at Klondike Park in Augusta because it is close to home so if we need to return it is a quick drive down 94. I love the little trails in Klondikes, we always have great fun exploring. I hope I make it to the 24 hour mark this year!
8. Haunted Alton: OK, this is one a kid-free event! There is a local author named Troy Taylor who has written several books on the history of cities and states. I've read a few of his books and I just love them. I am a history nerd so these books are right up my alley. In addition to history, Troy talks about the local legends of ghosts and hauntings. He offers ghost tours in Alton, IL and I want to go this year! I went on a haunted tour two years ago with some work friends and we had a blast! This time I want to try Troy's tour with a big group of our friends. There is nothing better than starting off the Halloween season with spooks and scares!
I am still working on finding some more fun things to do on our weekends. Luckily Brennan is not playing fall ball so we are not committed to any games or leagues this year. While I never want to wish my summers away, I cannot help but feel a bit excited for what lies ahead of us!!
As much as I hate to admit that my summer is slipping away, I cannot help but think about what lies ahead (it is the teacher in me!). Before we know it, the boys and I will start back to school and our lives will fall into that mundane Monday-Friday schedule. I decided to create family fun weekends around town in an effort to not only break up the busy work/school week, but to also make awesome family memories with the boys.
We are very lucky to live in such a great state. Missouri has so much to see and to explore and many of the attractions are free or low cost. With the boys older, we can drive father distances and they can engage in a lot more than in years past. I cannot wait to start our little "go and see it" activities! So far I have planned:
1. Big Cedar Lodge: We've never been here before, but I seriously cannot wait to get here! There is everything from horseback riding to hiking to campfires to fishing to stargazing. Even if they didn't have a single event available, the pictures alone of this place would have sold me! Several friends have stayed here and said it was worth every penny spent.
2. Elephant Rock State Park: Elephant Rock is part of the Missouri State Parks. I remember going here with my parents when I was a little girl; my brother and I had great fun climbing over and in between these giant boulders. There are trails and hiking, something the boys really enjoy. I want to go here when the leaves are at their peak colors so we can capture some great pictures.
3. Lambert's Cafe: I really want to go here, but I need to call and check about food allergies first. Fingers crossed that we will be able to eat here! This is the famous "home of the throwed rolls" restaurant. Bryan has been here with his family many years ago and would love to return. The menu is a very southern style menu offering massive amounts of food such as fried chicken, BBQ ribs, country ham, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, fried okra and black eyed peas. And of course, throwed rolls!
4. Endangered Wolf Center: Alex is obsessed with wolves and coyotes. I happily discovered the Endangered Wolf Center offers an evening event called "Campfire Wolf Howl". During this time visitors walk 1/2 mile around the center and try to get the wolves to howl back plus you get to hear stories around a campfire. Alex is going to LOVE this, I cannot wait to take him!
5. Apple & Pumpkin Picking: We always visit several farms such as Centennial Farms, Eckert's Stuckmeyer's Farm and Thies Farm. I cannot get enough of the autumn activities so I try to visit as many of these local farms as possible!
6. Haunted Hayride: Eckert's offers a kid friendly haunted hayride on Friday and Saturday nights from mid-September through Halloween. The boys love Halloween so I think they will really like this event.
7. Camping: We try to go camping each year. I am not into camping, in fact I usually only last about 16-20 hours, but I am trying! I like camping at Klondike Park in Augusta because it is close to home so if we need to return it is a quick drive down 94. I love the little trails in Klondikes, we always have great fun exploring. I hope I make it to the 24 hour mark this year!
8. Haunted Alton: OK, this is one a kid-free event! There is a local author named Troy Taylor who has written several books on the history of cities and states. I've read a few of his books and I just love them. I am a history nerd so these books are right up my alley. In addition to history, Troy talks about the local legends of ghosts and hauntings. He offers ghost tours in Alton, IL and I want to go this year! I went on a haunted tour two years ago with some work friends and we had a blast! This time I want to try Troy's tour with a big group of our friends. There is nothing better than starting off the Halloween season with spooks and scares!
I am still working on finding some more fun things to do on our weekends. Luckily Brennan is not playing fall ball so we are not committed to any games or leagues this year. While I never want to wish my summers away, I cannot help but feel a bit excited for what lies ahead of us!!
Cobbler
Last week we went blackberry picking at Centennial Farms. My family loves eating fruit the way nature intended, but I enjoy cooking and baking so I decided I would make a cobbler with some of our berries. I had an old family recipe for cobbler, but I decided to surf the old internet to see what I could come up with. Most of the recipes were the same, only small tweaks were made here and there. I must have read 25 recipes! Alex loves to help me in the kitchen so he asked if he could please help make the cobbler, of course I said yes! So here is the cobbler Alex and I created last Friday afternoon!
Ingredients
3-4 cups of fresh blackberries
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup milk
1 cup flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
1 stick unsalted butter
1 tablespoon sugar
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the stick of unsalted butter in an oven safe dish (I used a 9x9 dish) and place it in the oven to melt as it heats up.
2. Place clean berries in a microwave safe dish. Add 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of butter to the top. Microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until the butter and sugar has started to melt. You'll need to stir this a bit to distribute the butter and sugar. It will probably look bubbly and thin, that is what you want!
3. In a bowl mix together 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder & 1/2 teaspoon salt until well blended. Pour in 1 cup of milk and mix well with spoon.
4. By now the butter should have melted in the dish. Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Pour the batter evenly over the butter, but do not mix.
5. Next, pour the blackberry mixture over the butter & batter, but do not mix! As it bakes the batter will rise to the top. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar all over the top of the dessert.
Ingredients
3-4 cups of fresh blackberries
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup milk
1 cup flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
1 stick unsalted butter
1 tablespoon sugar
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the stick of unsalted butter in an oven safe dish (I used a 9x9 dish) and place it in the oven to melt as it heats up.
2. Place clean berries in a microwave safe dish. Add 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of butter to the top. Microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until the butter and sugar has started to melt. You'll need to stir this a bit to distribute the butter and sugar. It will probably look bubbly and thin, that is what you want!
3. In a bowl mix together 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder & 1/2 teaspoon salt until well blended. Pour in 1 cup of milk and mix well with spoon.
4. By now the butter should have melted in the dish. Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Pour the batter evenly over the butter, but do not mix.
6. Bake in the oven for about 50-55 minutes or until the batter appears golden. I think the cobbler is best served warm. Enjoy!!
Friday, July 20, 2012
Blackberry Pickin'
Last week we packed the kids in the car and headed out Highway 94 to beautiful Augusta. It was a hot, sunny summer afternoon, the kind of day where sweat rolls down your back and you've only walked from the house to the car. Despite the heat and humidity we were all excited to get out in the farm fields and get busy picking berries. As we pulled into the gravel lot we were greeted by Suzy the farm dog. Alex didn't care much for her, but Brennan remembered her from past visits and had a great time petting her. Suzy is a big, floppy, lazy farm dog! She gave out lots of sloppy doggy kisses in exchange for lots of ear scratching and belly rubs. I think Brennan would have taken her home if we let him!
The farm owner gave us some plastic baskets and soon we were on our way into the berry patch. These blackberries were huge! The boys were eating straight from the vines. There is something about farm fresh foods! I cannot begin to think of anything better than a fruit or vegetable eaten right off the plant. I finally had to tell the boys no more berries because I was afraid they may get sick. The blackberries were the sweetest I've ever eaten; I couldn't wait to get home and make a cobbler. In time we were all sweaty, sticky messes and our baskets were overflowing with berries so we headed back to the market area.
Inside the market area was sweet corn, ripe peaches, squash, zucchini and potatoes as well as items like relishes, jams and flavored honey. If were were going back home I would have loaded up on farm fresh produce, but I didn't want any of it to get bruised and ruined between our next stop. Luckily Bryan and I are returning in August for our anniversary so I will load up then. Here are some pictures of our afternoon at Centennial Farms. My only regret is I was taking all the pictures and I didn't get a single shot of me and boys together :( Please do not use any of my pictures of my children without permission. Thank you!
The farm owner gave us some plastic baskets and soon we were on our way into the berry patch. These blackberries were huge! The boys were eating straight from the vines. There is something about farm fresh foods! I cannot begin to think of anything better than a fruit or vegetable eaten right off the plant. I finally had to tell the boys no more berries because I was afraid they may get sick. The blackberries were the sweetest I've ever eaten; I couldn't wait to get home and make a cobbler. In time we were all sweaty, sticky messes and our baskets were overflowing with berries so we headed back to the market area.
Inside the market area was sweet corn, ripe peaches, squash, zucchini and potatoes as well as items like relishes, jams and flavored honey. If were were going back home I would have loaded up on farm fresh produce, but I didn't want any of it to get bruised and ruined between our next stop. Luckily Bryan and I are returning in August for our anniversary so I will load up then. Here are some pictures of our afternoon at Centennial Farms. My only regret is I was taking all the pictures and I didn't get a single shot of me and boys together :( Please do not use any of my pictures of my children without permission. Thank you!
This is farm/market place. Look at how old is it!
Brennan & Suzy the farm dog, so sweet!
Brennan picking blackberries.
Alex filling up his basket.
You cannot tell from the pictures, but these berries are HUGE!
Look at the beautiful colors. This is nature at its finest!
This is part of the red barn. The landscaping is really pretty.
Welcome to the town of Augusta! I wish I lived here!
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