tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81181032638894975662024-03-05T22:01:46.446-05:00Cooking with YarnBlog on a variety of things for family, cooking and fiber arts.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-36267301204139834382012-01-30T16:10:00.000-05:002012-01-30T16:10:27.593-05:00Sourdough - a storyIn 2001, I decided I wanted to start making sourdough bread. I ordered a <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/classic-fresh-sourdough-starter-1-oz">starter</a> from King Arthur Flour. It was a great little starter. Simple instructions (KAF is great with instructions) arrived with the container. I followed them....until I didn't. Life (work - new job) got in the way. The poor little starter was neglected. It died an untimely death.<br />
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Fast forward to 2008 - I decide it is time to attempt sourdough again, fully committed to the needs of a starter. I considered purchasing another starter, but decided to give it a whirl "catching" my own. I followed instructions very similar to <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Making-a-Sourdough-Starter-Levain-from-Scratch-351330">these</a>, except I recall using rye flour for a much longer time. I caught a very vigorous rising yeast. It was great. I loved on that starter. We were getting along so well. Unlike the time before, I had plenty of folks more than willing to take a loaf or two of sourdough off my hands. (While I love to bake bread and my family is only provided homebaked bread, we never finish a loaf.) The starter lived with our family for quite some time. It was a very happy existence until a busy period of work travel hit. Knowing the starter's needs and my impending travel hades, I astutely decided to freeze a portion of the starter for posterity.<br />
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The frozen starter found its way to the back of the freezer. You can fill in the rest. I would occasionally see it back in there and ponder "I need to get that back out and love on it" but would quickly realize there were upcoming trips/family commitments/etc. that would cut into my attention and prevent the starter from receiving the love it needed to thrive again. I finally dug it out this past fall. No matter how much love and attention I showed the starter, it couldn't be revived. It was absolutely my own doing. I had a period of mourning.<br />
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I finally kicked myself into reality and decided to "catch" another starter. Heck, I did it before with ease, right? Apparently my first experience was not indicative of usual success levels. No matter how many times I tried, I was not catching another wild type yeast! I was so frustrated! (Although, I do plan to try again this summer hoping that shifts in household temperature will be the key. I will not give up easily!)<br />
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Sitting at Taekwondo one day with some other moms, I overheard one make reference to her sourdough starter. I kindly requested a bit of her starter and she gladly shared. That's what sourdough is really about - sharing. This starter has a wonderful aroma and acidic bite. (My fabulous wild-caught was a very vigorous riser, but didn't have a strong acidic bite.) I promptly took the starter home and started loving on it.<br />
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Then my problem arose: I was trying to make the new starter be just like my wild-caught one. As in life, anytime you try to make someone or something into what you THINK they/it should be - you will get bit in the rear.<br />
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After coming to realization I wasn't in charge (which is incredibly difficult for me to accept in any situation), I had to get over my preconceived notions/convictions. I had it in my mind that NO sourdough is TRUE sourdough unless the starter does ALL the rising. (I often set terribly high standards for myself.) The resulting loaves of sourdough were bricks with great flavor. I finally caved and dissolved 1/2 T. of yeast in 1/4 c of warm water with 1 t. sugar. I added this to my 12+ hr room temperature fermented starter. The results can be seen here. <br />
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Moral of the story: open yourself to new approaches and possibilities. The results are always surprising and most often fabulous.<br />
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If you live nearby, let me know if you need some starter. I finally have come to an understanding with it.<br />
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Notes from the needles:<br />
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Lots of things have flown off the needles during my absence. (Knitting was one of the few things keeping me sane during the incredibly busy period.)<br />
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A quick garter stitch scarf from reclaimed silk cut in ribbons. I'll find the band and post the particulars sometime. (At least I *think* I will find the band.)Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-40432533256248478622011-11-15T20:46:00.001-05:002011-11-15T21:58:57.770-05:00A little here and a little there, a little bit everywhereEach holiday season, there are plenty of "little" gifts you need to secure. "Little" is a misnomer. More often than not, these "little" gifts are for folks who help the world go 'round. Teachers, mail deliverers, music instructors, care providers, co-workers, neighbors.....the list goes on and on.<br />
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I have a lot of friends who are teachers. I listen to them. (Heck, I admire the fool out of them. They have chosen a career I know I am not meant to do.) One thing they have drilled into me: teachers do not expect gifts. They do not expect families to spend money on them. If a family feels compelled to present them with a gift, it doesn't need to be expensive.<br />
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RULE #1: Small gift cards are GREAT!<br />
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A $5 gift card can be great! Coffee drinker? Local coffee shop or Starbucks - whatever is closer to the school. Target? A teacher can ALWAYS find something at Target. Local grocery store? Everyone need to make a quick grocery run every now and then on the way home from work. Select a store near the school (preferably on the quicker route away from school). While it may seem boring to grab a $5 gift card to a generic store, we all run in and out of these stores and that is $5 they don't have to spend out of their pocket!<br />
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RULE #2: No coffee cups full of candy!<br />
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Apparently teachers get LOTS of coffee cups full of candy. They don't need anymore.<br />
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RULE #3: Homemade food is nice, but can be creepy.<br />
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This one was hard for me to wrap my head around UNTIL a teacher explained it to me. It is great that people want to share food with them. There are people who have issues with eating food prepared by people they don't know well. I can respect that. Keep it in mind when you are preparing food as a gift.<br />
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Additional gift options for teachers and others:<br />
Levenger offers a variety of games during the holiday season. Many are moderately priced, such as:<a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8351"> Story Cubes</a>, <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8365">Literary Charades</a>, <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8366">Ever After Memory Game</a>, <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8302">Orijinz</a>, <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8481">Tell Tale</a>, <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8467">Spot It</a>, <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8425">Name Chase</a>, or <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=822-1194%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=8429">Zip It</a>. (There are more great educational games to consider for the offsprings and others on the gift list too.) My absolutely FAVORITE little gifts/teacher gift/stocking stuffer are <a href="http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLATES/PRODUCT/Product.asp?Params=Category=17-671%7CLevel=2-3%7Cpageid=3868">book bungees</a>.<br />
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Penzey's has some great spice boxes for small gifts: <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/KindHeart3.html?id=ifTxqn4y">Kind Heart</a>, <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/scstore/giftboxes/new/miniGiftBox.html">Mini Gift Box</a>, <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/scstore/giftboxes/new/GrillminiGiftBox.html">Grill and Broil Mini Gift Box</a>, and <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/scstore/giftboxes/new/BakingminiGiftBox.html">Baking Mini Gift Box</a>.<br />
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If you want some food treats to include, there are a wide variety of holiday options available at: <a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/all/">Whole Foods</a>, <a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/stores/index.asp">Trader Joe's</a>, <a href="http://www.earthfare.com/">Earthfare</a>, and many local grocers. I have found nice bowls and containers at <a href="http://www.tuesdaymorning.com/storelocator/storelocator.asp">Tuesday Morning</a> and <a href="http://www1.tjmaxx.com/tjx/locator.asp">TJ Maxx</a> (not coffee mugs!).<br />
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Have fun. Be creative. Most of all, enjoy the act of giving!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-79720425920522463932011-11-12T07:25:00.001-05:002011-11-12T08:13:49.626-05:00Food is love, so gifts of food are fabulous!We can't always provide someone with a gift of homemade food. Logistical (distance), safety (it is a bit weird to receive homemade food from someone you don't know that well), dietary (allergies and medical limitations), and preference (some folks really like prepared foods - I've been trying for years to understand it without much success) all play a role. There are some cool options available though!<br />
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All of these food options are family/local businesses. They just aren't necessarily located around the corner from your house! Purchasing from them still supports the small business backbone of our economy during these tough times. Best of all: <b>their products are FABULOUS!</b><br />
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Many years ago, my spouse had a business trip to Racine, WI. A colleague (originally from the area) <strike>enabled</strike> introduced him to <a href="http://www.ohdanishbakery.com/ohdb/CATEGORY?scrcrtchk=20111112023514501000&scrcrtnum=108859636&scrcatnum=130&scrclropt=N">Danish kringle</a> from <a href="http://www.ohdanishbakery.com/">O&H Danish Bakery</a>. When their kringle became available for online ordering and delivery, we haven't had a holiday season (or his birthday or Father's day) without a delivery. He hoards it. Literally. It disappears to the spare frig in the garage to stay out of view of potential guests. The offspring scores servings now that he has proven he will eat the entire allotment and not waste any. The great thing about ordering from O&H is that you can schedule your delivery when you order (i.e. order now and have them arrive at the appointed location on the days of your choosing during the holiday season). You don't have to worry about logging in multiple times to take care of your list. I have scheduled for kringle to arrive at holiday locations the same day we drive in. Additionally, we have yet to send kringles as gifts where the recipients weren't hooked afterwards. Favorite flavors of the spouse and offspring (in no particular order): cherry, pumpkin caramel, raspberry, pecan, turtle, maple walnut, cranberry.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sunnylandfarms.com/">Sunnyland Farms</a> pecans (and treats) are awesome! There is always a debate as to whether <a href="http://www.sunnylandfarms.com/subcategories/Candied-Pecan-Halves-Sugar-n-Spice-and-Orange-Frosted#79">orange frost or sugar and spice</a> is the ultimate favorite. Either way, the recipient is a winner. (Full disclosure: I'm in Camp Orange Frost.) There are lots of other great goodies to choose from too. October is pecan season so gifts from Sunnyland Farms will be fresh when they arrive for the holidays. IMPORTANT: when you order, <b>make sure</b> you are on the list to receive the catalog next year. You'll understand why when you receive it. One of my favorite fall activities is reading the Sunnyland Farms catalog.<br />
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I have mentioned <a href="http://gearhartschocolates.com/">Gearhart's chocolates</a> before in the blog. A gift from Gearhart's is the ultimate in indulgence. Treat yourself (the spouse and I do EVERY year) or someone else. The <a href="http://gearhartschocolates.com/v/order.html">standard assortments</a> are great, but for $1 more you can create <a href="http://gearhartschocolates.com/v/order.html">custom assortments</a> also.<br />
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Gifts that keep giving:<br />
For the foodie or wanna be foodie: <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/">Bon Appetit</a><br />
For the foodie who wants more information/detail: <a href="http://www.cooksillustrated.com/">Cooks Illustrated</a><br />
For folks dealing with allergy/medical issues: <a href="http://www.livingwithout.com/">Living Without</a><br />
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Needle news:<br />
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Birthday gift for my mother-in-law. She requested a felted handbag.<br />
Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/little-slip-of-a-thing">Little Slip of a Thing</a><br />
Yarn: Ella Rae 100% worsted weight wool; one skein each purple and gray<br />
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True sign a nip is in the air. Freshing up the socks.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-21703644368779736592011-11-08T21:32:00.000-05:002011-11-08T21:32:39.658-05:00CelebrationIt has been a busy month or so. Can you tell? When the day winds down, I focus on spending time with the family, cooking, and - obviously - knitting.<br />
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We have celebrated the offspring's birthday! Rule at our house: birthday celebrant sets the menu for the family meal. Oh, how I love my child! The menu: homemade macaroni and cheese with bacon; cooked apples; baked sweet potatoes; lima beans; and ice cream cake.<br />
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I've never made an ice cream cake. As usual, I developed a plan and dove it. First, I baked a homemade brownie layer (cake style vs fudgy) in an 8" layer cake pan. I removed the brownie from the pan. After it was completely cool, I wrapped it and placed it in the freezer.<br />
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Next, I began making the ice cream layers. The offspring chose (from bottom to top): mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, and cherry chocolate. I softened the ice cream and used the 8" layer pans to form the separate ice cream layers.<br />
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After at least overnight in the freezer, I began to assemble the cake. I placed the frozen brownie layer on the serving dish. One-by-one, I removed the ice cream layers from the pan by dipping each in a sink of warm water for about 10 seconds and turned it out on ice cream cake. I placed the assembled cake in the freezer overnight.<br />
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The next day, I prepared a double batch of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cake-Bible-Rose-Levy-Beranbaum/dp/0688044026/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320804918&sr=1-1">Super Stabilized Whipped Cream</a> and decorated the cake the day of the dinner.<br />
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After decorating, the cake was in the freezer for approximately 6 hrs before serving. All components were frozen. It was a little difficult to insert the candles in the whipped cream. The next time, I will most likely utilize the Stabilized Whipped Cream for frosting.<br />
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It was enjoyed by all. We will definitely have another sometime.<br />
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I could have done without the mint chocolate chip and the cherry chocolate together. Of course, it wasn't my celebration.<br />
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Our birthday gift to the offspring was a trip to Universal Florida and a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We had great fun.<br />
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The offspring had a few items on a punch list for the trip:<br />
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We drank butterbeer. (Both frozen and liquid - frozen won out as the favorite for our family.)<br />
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Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans were consumed. (Plus more brought back for sharing.)<br />
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Pumpkin juice was consumed.<br />
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And most importantly - a wand was procured from Olivander's.<br />
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Several knitted items have been completed during the blog absence. I'll gather all the pictures and include them later.<br />
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I also have some wonderful holiday gift suggestions. I'll include those next time.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-70381387483820198022011-09-19T20:49:00.000-04:002011-09-19T20:50:14.515-04:00Bits and PiecesWhat a month! I have had every intention of posting, but work has gotten in the way. New (relatively temporary) duties have required even earlier hours and have sucked up my knitting time during the offspring's afternoon activities. In a fit of "I must accomplish something fiber-related or I might pop" on a Saturday, out came the following bits and pieces busters.<br />
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I am sure I'm not the only one who hangs on to bits and pieces of skeins of yarn. You never know when you might need to make Silly Socks for school or an anemone for a diorama or mend a hole in a sock (I'm still ticked at some bug) or anything else that might pop up.<br />
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As my hair has gotten <strike>wider</strike> longer, I have been in search of an effective, yet comfortable headband. This particular Saturday, as I was sipping my cappuccino, I decided to check <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/account/login">Ravelry</a> for patterns. Low and behold, I came across the <a href="http://lusciouslulublog.blogspot.com/2010/10/knit-headband-tutoral.html">perfect match</a>! All you knit is a simple I-cord. Rachel Bishop takes the time to pictorially show how to knit an I-cord. Easy as can be! I-cords are a good way to get use to double points or magic-loop.<br />
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It took me about an hour to knit each of these. All were knitted from my "leftovers stash".<br />
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Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend</div>
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Handspun</div>
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Forest Has a Long Memory</div>
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Merino/Tussah Silk</div>
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2-ply</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpinningAwesomeGood?ref=ss_profile">Spinning Awesome Good</a></div>
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I knitted three I-cords, braided and attached to the hairband.</div>
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I-cord for 3 inches. Increase to 8 stitches. Slip stitch beginning of row, 2x2 cable for 8 inches. Decrease to four stitches, I-cord for 3 inches. Attached to hairband.</div>
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Handspun</div>
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Navajo ply</div>
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Northern Lights</div>
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Blue Faced Lecester</div>
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Spinning Awesome Good</div>
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For my pseudo-offsprings:</div>
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<a href="http://www.cherryyarn.com/wordpress/">Cherry Tree Hill</a></div>
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Supersock Select Azalea</div>
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Single chain crochet flower in Northern Lights (see above)</div>
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Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend</div>
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<a href="http://www.fortheloveofyarn.com/Issues/Spring06/patterns/spring06_stashbust_knit.shtml">Flower</a> in discontinued color of <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/knitting.cfm">Knit Picks</a> Stroll</div>
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<a href="http://www.koigu.com/home.html">Koigu</a> PPPM in a long-lost color</div>
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Flowers in Cherry Tree Hill Supersock Select Azalea and Knit Picks Stroll</div>
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It was a fabulous, fiber-productive-feeling weekend. Plus, there are several girls enjoying their one-of-a-kind headbands that don't pinch or hurt! Fabulous!</div>
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Holiday gift ideas:</div>
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Teachers - I received a Penzey's Spice catalog this week. They have a teacher's gift FOR FREE with a purchase. Code: 83018C (one per household) It is an AWESOME deal. You can purchase additional kits for $8.78 each. Kits include: 1/2 c jar Penzeys Forward seasoning, 1/4 c jar Penzey's cinnamon, Teachers Care bumper sticker, Teach! pin, and Teach! book of stories and recipes. (You can also get a free 1/2 cup jar of Penzey Forward for yourself with coupon code: 15958C)</div>
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If you have a potential sock knitter (i.e. they have been discussing it, but haven't taken the plunge), enable them for life by shopping at <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/knitting.cfm">Knit Picks</a>. Knit Picks double points are great and affordable. You can purchase <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/needles/6_Harmony_Wood_Double_Pointed_Knitting_Needles__Dkpdpnwd.html">individual sets</a> (select sizes 0-2 for sock newbies) or a <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/needles/5_Harmony_Wood_Double_Pointed_Knitting_Needle_Set__D90433.html">great set</a> for those bitten by the sock bug. Throw in a skein or two of <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Stroll_Tonal_Sock_Yarn__D5420134.html">Stroll</a> and you have a full sock knitting kit! (At VERY AFFORDABLE prices.)</div>
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Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-90615576590071705732011-09-02T22:01:00.000-04:002011-09-02T22:01:12.159-04:00One of those peopleThat would be me. I have already started Christmas shopping. I actually started some time ago, but this is the time of year I begin to ramp it up. (If it makes you feel better, I don't start wrapping until the tree goes up the first week in December.)<br />
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From now through the holidays, I will try to offer gift suggestions for the fiber and food lovers on your shopping lists. I will try to offer a wide variety of ideas for every budget. Hopefully you will find something just right for your loved ones.<br />
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If you shop for a hardcore sock knitter who has everything, <a href="http://www.myfavoritethimble.com/Blackthornneedles.htm">Blackthorn DPN</a> are the ultimate splurge. Many knitters would feel guilty spending this on a set of DPN (double point needles for the non-sock/hat knitting folks) so a set would be a wonderful expression of "I know you would never treat yourself, but I know you will use them constantly" caring. [Honey, here is your hint - 6" size 00 would be perfect.]<br />
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For the foodie on your list, <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/c-Gift_Boxes.html?id=FQXbG7IN">spice gift boxes</a> are a fabulous option. <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/shophome.html">Penzeys</a> offers gift boxes for every budget. Spices are also something that need replacing every so often also. Spice blends can open up new doors for cooking creativity also.<br />
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Fiber fanatics who would like to give hand knits for gifts, now is the time to start! Scarves (in particular lace ones) are great gifts for colleagues, teachers, family members, etc. There are tons of pattern options on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/account/login">Ravelry</a> (most are free!). The <a href="http://supersockstore.com/shop/">Cherry Tree Hill semi-annual yarn sale</a> occurs Labor Day weekend. Cast on and start knitting!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-68434367448285517222011-08-23T17:50:00.000-04:002011-08-23T17:50:50.346-04:00Saucy!The heat of the summer is upon us (heck, the heat of the summer has been here a.l.l. s.u.m.m.e.r. l.o.n.g.). One of the pleasant things about the end of summer is harvesting a crop of basil and stashing next year's pesto! (This year's heat has resulted in a modest basil crop. [insert grumbles])<br />
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Making fresh pesto and stashing it in the freezer for the winter is a snap. You only need a few supplies. (If you want a recipe, you can find a simple recipe <a href="http://www.amazon.com/How-Cook-Everything-Simple-Recipes/dp/0471789186/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1314134252&sr=1-2">here</a>. If you want to buy the book (it is great), please consider visiting a local, independent bookstore before "clicking".)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeYjm1ccyqLlG5wxsFpolM3S1cqfdIfFcIQt5VTmPpKXN4fhCLb854r_hrx5zHtAKPij7052Y4HMeiYsAYcXnuLWEZTvz4qc0wQ5fFBKiqu6n5MzamqCcNyV2-pi7Rt2NLBaJp_Wg6xs/s1600/DSC05068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeYjm1ccyqLlG5wxsFpolM3S1cqfdIfFcIQt5VTmPpKXN4fhCLb854r_hrx5zHtAKPij7052Y4HMeiYsAYcXnuLWEZTvz4qc0wQ5fFBKiqu6n5MzamqCcNyV2-pi7Rt2NLBaJp_Wg6xs/s320/DSC05068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>First, wash and spin dry the basil.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhev2e4VvL4g4iDETvDJzj-HkEUoAVTyrldB9sQh9cFk7yewkKMaWR3pLbdaMbMxpp5ljyX0nDW0XzA8l-aqpCqZ7Lw7-yfeHyoNOlZu-faQYv99iPwLGNzF1-KA-3xFl1n2ExXT9TuL0w/s1600/DSC05070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhev2e4VvL4g4iDETvDJzj-HkEUoAVTyrldB9sQh9cFk7yewkKMaWR3pLbdaMbMxpp5ljyX0nDW0XzA8l-aqpCqZ7Lw7-yfeHyoNOlZu-faQYv99iPwLGNzF1-KA-3xFl1n2ExXT9TuL0w/s320/DSC05070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet. When I toast pine nuts, I usually cover the bottom the skillet and put the leftovers in the freezer for pasta and breads.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfNVh5I3HyiJcx-bVhRlcwRTT1vbpbzzZP_LiG7Tki_anagCUGlVFEJ5Hkv29vsvgCGFHRP83P8YAROgvG47UFJJgdWepKJQt5MzbYZlMZlMnx0lb0T_4NGkGXr31TJ6vu3aFtlc-RzM/s1600/DSC05074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfNVh5I3HyiJcx-bVhRlcwRTT1vbpbzzZP_LiG7Tki_anagCUGlVFEJ5Hkv29vsvgCGFHRP83P8YAROgvG47UFJJgdWepKJQt5MzbYZlMZlMnx0lb0T_4NGkGXr31TJ6vu3aFtlc-RzM/s320/DSC05074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Gather your supplies and ingredients. I add fresh lemon juice to my pesto to help retain color. I squeeze it through a fine mesh strain directly into the food processor.<br />
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If you need lemon zest for something else, harvest it before juicing the lemon. I have found that lemons stored in the refrigerator produce a higher juice yield. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9uKsr1mvQbRXGJGl_QL0ESvGdpMaRYsYVxW4450Gg3lSZD015OGZPOQsp6RchE7sW3vFhj-3s9UVg1seAFNgNMk4ybx5eMoH7xYBjD7lx_yXSDPgIlXVguicGiuKy4TGWWRGR8ffcjo/s1600/DSC05075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9uKsr1mvQbRXGJGl_QL0ESvGdpMaRYsYVxW4450Gg3lSZD015OGZPOQsp6RchE7sW3vFhj-3s9UVg1seAFNgNMk4ybx5eMoH7xYBjD7lx_yXSDPgIlXVguicGiuKy4TGWWRGR8ffcjo/s320/DSC05075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After the ingredients have been added to the food processor (basil, toasted pine nuts, fresh garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice), add about 1/2 of the recommended olive oil. Process, taking time to scrape down the sides and add more olive oil until you have the proper consistency.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NCMe9F6oQSkH5dj5Z6fs29k4OspkQnhegVW2i7RfVva-djou6N8VIJjGSsaHp0f2qRypnJ0TuB5vv7zQpcfkYCHiee9bC4jegJjqe1ZOnDF4u2i19hdVv3XVb_y1CzJFRSsTDpPXZP0/s1600/DSC05078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NCMe9F6oQSkH5dj5Z6fs29k4OspkQnhegVW2i7RfVva-djou6N8VIJjGSsaHp0f2qRypnJ0TuB5vv7zQpcfkYCHiee9bC4jegJjqe1ZOnDF4u2i19hdVv3XVb_y1CzJFRSsTDpPXZP0/s320/DSC05078.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I prefer pesto for freezing to be slightly thicker in viscosity than if I were planning on using it immediately. The consistency will change when it is thawed. I add oil after thawing to achieve the desired viscosity for my application.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tCBW-AI-pZjcfnrvGjhG799poUg7jkj_IPdDbPSQFKR3cE6yfYapwSusSB9NcqkT1qY9IelWp-Sj-AYg_jpFz8dDEe7FXQuriz-Y_vcDvcI1jtY2Te_NN2-3JVLt8bKD7IgmjVY_rR8/s1600/DSC05080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tCBW-AI-pZjcfnrvGjhG799poUg7jkj_IPdDbPSQFKR3cE6yfYapwSusSB9NcqkT1qY9IelWp-Sj-AYg_jpFz8dDEe7FXQuriz-Y_vcDvcI1jtY2Te_NN2-3JVLt8bKD7IgmjVY_rR8/s320/DSC05080.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I freeze pesto in ice cube trays. It is important to note: DO NOT ADD CHEESE to the pesto before freezing. Cheese is added to the pesto after thawing. The cheese will not freeze well.<br />
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Once frozen, pop out of trays and store in a zip top freezer bag.<br />
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Frozen pesto cubes are also great to throw into red sauce.<br />
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So simple! (and wonderful - all year round)<br />
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Recently off the needles:<br />
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Back in June, I shared a <a href="http://cookingwithyarn.blogspot.com/2011/06/fiber-goodness.html">recent handspun</a>. It has now turned into -<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2S8xJxoj3MQck1E0UgorBtLi38he6hBeet7CIBhUI7nIGE5QuOj_6bpxVjr1G4QCP610f5pxtY-tVo6M2Lr_kaQFfUy7QjtvV4yvpAeUSzetf1tTI-pTLsfmh9UnVEKbP3q9oVf8OtFA/s1600/DSC05096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2S8xJxoj3MQck1E0UgorBtLi38he6hBeet7CIBhUI7nIGE5QuOj_6bpxVjr1G4QCP610f5pxtY-tVo6M2Lr_kaQFfUy7QjtvV4yvpAeUSzetf1tTI-pTLsfmh9UnVEKbP3q9oVf8OtFA/s320/DSC05096.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>A <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rain-drop">Rain Drop</a> stole. (US 9 needles)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMj9Z9eLoBa0Xl0wdiwaWBdZ7oCpgSZhvPxOFrZA-B2p5CZanyApZFY-euFnN9_KWDmmvgRPQQC2B9-geQS5TmPuvHL-OK2hyphenhyphen76_s7qw9ea4cUQY0jwY4WBoxdV9JdrvTVBWJ10X0p8k/s1600/DSC05086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMj9Z9eLoBa0Xl0wdiwaWBdZ7oCpgSZhvPxOFrZA-B2p5CZanyApZFY-euFnN9_KWDmmvgRPQQC2B9-geQS5TmPuvHL-OK2hyphenhyphen76_s7qw9ea4cUQY0jwY4WBoxdV9JdrvTVBWJ10X0p8k/s320/DSC05086.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Before blocking.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI0_6kKE0x_hk_GBv6wkkmq9LmVmTCaOwLv5NLfonJsJhtGj8DzsmUQm2ja3Wd-e9l-D8Gybwe-ToPOcYpL4gEL8K1v3DOp8qsfJeWmI34qmnQQAN5s_l4rzHOVqJWJCrbvO8zV1dR48/s1600/DSC05091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI0_6kKE0x_hk_GBv6wkkmq9LmVmTCaOwLv5NLfonJsJhtGj8DzsmUQm2ja3Wd-e9l-D8Gybwe-ToPOcYpL4gEL8K1v3DOp8qsfJeWmI34qmnQQAN5s_l4rzHOVqJWJCrbvO8zV1dR48/s320/DSC05091.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>On the pins. (Sorry for the craptastic lighting. The cat REALLY wanted back on the bed, so I was hurrying. Hey, she's 20 yrs old. She has earned the right to be pushy at times.) This is stretched on a queen size bed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-86592811107999412662011-08-12T21:21:00.000-04:002011-08-12T21:21:52.507-04:00My future's so bright, I've gotta wear shadesI'm always asked, "Don't you want a daughter?" Honestly, I am thrilled to be blessed with a child. I had no preference for either gender. I truly just wanted a healthy child. There are many people who assume that I must have a burning desire for a daughter since I cook, knit, sew, etc. While I do enjoy sharing these pursuits with children, I don't necessarily have to produce my own daughter, I can "rent" one of just about any age from my dear friends (who don't have any sons - see, the whole thing really balances out).<br />
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This summer, "the girls" and I undertook a yarn-related project. The two older girls (older is relative) had requested knitted purses. I had read an article about dying yarn with Kool Aid. How can you pass up a perfect storm such as this?<br />
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I ordered several skeins of <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Dye_Your_Own_Knitting_Yarn__L300110.html">Knit Picks Bare</a> (varying weights and fiber content). I downloaded the <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/images/pdf/DyeingTutorial.pdf">Knit Picks Kool Aid Dyeing Tutorial</a>. We were ready to roll! The girls <strike>begged</strike> asked their mothers to take them shopping for Kool Aid. I bought quart wide-mouth canning jars. I was smarter than the average bear - I dyed my own sock yarn before starting the endeavor with young, highly excited children.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_YJZxqt_FYjpAOMddeSODBjOby_N0oYWggYkWzuKmynIscV4bnY3N1z9jqS_XLsra-aUAIMaP24goKH00CXUm3hfxjzWHYmL3MmmBMJDDWHnaG85AWnjPOpXFOPdVUBETFfJ5Dhdk1w/s1600/DSC05023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_YJZxqt_FYjpAOMddeSODBjOby_N0oYWggYkWzuKmynIscV4bnY3N1z9jqS_XLsra-aUAIMaP24goKH00CXUm3hfxjzWHYmL3MmmBMJDDWHnaG85AWnjPOpXFOPdVUBETFfJ5Dhdk1w/s320/DSC05023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I knotted the yarn randomly throughout (and across) the skein to have areas of white and color.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01iVueD90C09KAYoxvwwcE80rz559GjePoPUqITHXkjQBgxWC3vMVcJhf6TCqhlVc4nGV_szPoroYB4-T0bqxGzoeiqPa7NvK8C7lIRNvfdKM5f0n2EXDC3Az4BXsRZZPpCwY8VOcuQI/s1600/DSC05025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01iVueD90C09KAYoxvwwcE80rz559GjePoPUqITHXkjQBgxWC3vMVcJhf6TCqhlVc4nGV_szPoroYB4-T0bqxGzoeiqPa7NvK8C7lIRNvfdKM5f0n2EXDC3Az4BXsRZZPpCwY8VOcuQI/s320/DSC05025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Lemon-lime Kool Aid is bright. (I was expecting it.) For the whole skein of sock yarn (<a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Bare_Stroll_Fingering_Sock_Yarn__D5420145.html">Stroll</a>, fingering weight, superwash wool/nylon), I used a two quart glass pitcher for dyeing.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4iybkqPdB9KHEsEpykhQ74u7nHbNwdj9Suy3n7mLj_EGWEnh_71HqX9EiO0WaNXechwLhZ_axgXQqwIdroW3Awrr6kt8C0iugra2yTFEphx2woSRa5xX-HlI0_i3I592Y4CJteIkaTQ/s1600/DSC05028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4iybkqPdB9KHEsEpykhQ74u7nHbNwdj9Suy3n7mLj_EGWEnh_71HqX9EiO0WaNXechwLhZ_axgXQqwIdroW3Awrr6kt8C0iugra2yTFEphx2woSRa5xX-HlI0_i3I592Y4CJteIkaTQ/s320/DSC05028.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The yarn definitely has the fruity smell when it comes out of the dyeing solution.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CuWNxzqI1yHA-kjq-qeSyby8-RQBF7vEXeCz32ymRGWhx4kcTPT1NuszGnRPRgwdZWW1NZQfmudr2hTdz54vc3cjLYw2PPuabtTHzLeCt184ltl2ZHd_zA3q6iPmW0SKM5f1sgM7JQ0/s1600/DSC05034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CuWNxzqI1yHA-kjq-qeSyby8-RQBF7vEXeCz32ymRGWhx4kcTPT1NuszGnRPRgwdZWW1NZQfmudr2hTdz54vc3cjLYw2PPuabtTHzLeCt184ltl2ZHd_zA3q6iPmW0SKM5f1sgM7JQ0/s320/DSC05034.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>I was quite pleased with the final results.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UvNXA0xA98c42cz9VI5EHZMp9tz_Tdn8Kqo1yrs8hnCz3uJaD7CoDURzXaBrUpA5uyRZI2DebyLe_baiIF4xWtzXpDhyphenhyphenCeUzTYxIwYWKBtBVT7uBGKBq1cutNOAMVR_mmta5EUrQGds/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UvNXA0xA98c42cz9VI5EHZMp9tz_Tdn8Kqo1yrs8hnCz3uJaD7CoDURzXaBrUpA5uyRZI2DebyLe_baiIF4xWtzXpDhyphenhyphenCeUzTYxIwYWKBtBVT7uBGKBq1cutNOAMVR_mmta5EUrQGds/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Currently on the needles. (I will totally wear these with a business suit to a meeting.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTbyqIEjTaukQxxP0vukasvsiF0Y3_TvYHkss9Zc9GrKlU1ZoRLhvDeIdb4xNbTk5D6Dd6wt3967CibDmfI6bjnp0HtDcpX-sh8pnduQJ1sAxTOFegKsRrY7CnNQLD7HAiELhOAN0v1IY/s1600/DSC05037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTbyqIEjTaukQxxP0vukasvsiF0Y3_TvYHkss9Zc9GrKlU1ZoRLhvDeIdb4xNbTk5D6Dd6wt3967CibDmfI6bjnp0HtDcpX-sh8pnduQJ1sAxTOFegKsRrY7CnNQLD7HAiELhOAN0v1IY/s320/DSC05037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I split the skeins of worsted weight wool in half for the girls' purses. The Kool Aid flavors (front to back): strawberry-watermelon, berry blue, strawberry lemonade, berry blue, strawberry-watermelon over dyed with another bright pink flavor that escapes me (skein of sport weight superwash wool/nylon for another purpose).<br />
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<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/AVvXsEjkLzVPW2xDHK2pRv6QHs0pcixD8UaptD8V6K_ID-3LXWCmnvbAKVnZX5aXkp75VuLaq9cFEqJkws26Tz9eG3UX2eHVq0zzZeY_FtzcMYh6s1tUT8vDRGfKPYMAMBthIEBYZb57pauKsCY/s1600/DSC05038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLzVPW2xDHK2pRv6QHs0pcixD8UaptD8V6K_ID-3LXWCmnvbAKVnZX5aXkp75VuLaq9cFEqJkws26Tz9eG3UX2eHVq0zzZeY_FtzcMYh6s1tUT8vDRGfKPYMAMBthIEBYZb57pauKsCY/s320/DSC05038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigV16X7WumQXKU6GeBs3ec7oHpa2M9NOcriPLo1uYBglMZohWI-E7qjVS3YuIYjc94vgYNrIfXdi9Y-8xve2onMHPwSLQl48fAowbWeM30Sbx5MpsUvYoWWKb7GSRYtIZlMIw3abNY5v4/s1600/IMG_0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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Finished skeins (in the same order).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigV16X7WumQXKU6GeBs3ec7oHpa2M9NOcriPLo1uYBglMZohWI-E7qjVS3YuIYjc94vgYNrIfXdi9Y-8xve2onMHPwSLQl48fAowbWeM30Sbx5MpsUvYoWWKb7GSRYtIZlMIw3abNY5v4/s1600/IMG_0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigV16X7WumQXKU6GeBs3ec7oHpa2M9NOcriPLo1uYBglMZohWI-E7qjVS3YuIYjc94vgYNrIfXdi9Y-8xve2onMHPwSLQl48fAowbWeM30Sbx5MpsUvYoWWKb7GSRYtIZlMIw3abNY5v4/s320/IMG_0679.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I made drawstring bags. I began by casting on and knitting a 6" square. I evenly picked up stitches along all edges. (US 9 needle) Both purses have beads knitted in. I knitted a ruffled edge above the eyelets. I made an I-cord drawstring of each color.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfXJXESzqUzyzCYVuliTYkkTXNulgcjPVYnJJAYjk4qiIjbSfkrmwc4uaspFkG8-mB9ZMypC3oE39ZVm7ALXouS5O9e8q5x4jFN9Dtcq1krWWDGXfk3HeWc8UrfMQTwPtDvEbtGqLf_4/s1600/IMG_0687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfXJXESzqUzyzCYVuliTYkkTXNulgcjPVYnJJAYjk4qiIjbSfkrmwc4uaspFkG8-mB9ZMypC3oE39ZVm7ALXouS5O9e8q5x4jFN9Dtcq1krWWDGXfk3HeWc8UrfMQTwPtDvEbtGqLf_4/s320/IMG_0687.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After felting, I shaped the bags on overturned quart canning jars. I installed 3/8" grommets in the eyelets.<br />
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This is the strawberry-watermelon/berry blue purse with silver beads.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPuWiGTN4bIevfuNF8L2WyF676cWzgTwQ7gmwZ8ko34pTlEFtDSZ47vX7A2gtwmTsHLPVnWM3objhRKq0omdbAQR7yPMLKgtCM95DbR306CG5b7Z1v4dOyNz_KyOaPr3HyVEkf_GHvCQ/s1600/IMG_0688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPuWiGTN4bIevfuNF8L2WyF676cWzgTwQ7gmwZ8ko34pTlEFtDSZ47vX7A2gtwmTsHLPVnWM3objhRKq0omdbAQR7yPMLKgtCM95DbR306CG5b7Z1v4dOyNz_KyOaPr3HyVEkf_GHvCQ/s320/IMG_0688.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>This is the strawberry lemonade/berry blue purse with purple beads.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKY8KiqEtSvn_Tam-_jGPhr0ltnJjxqSp1vuA6iJatQ9qnbcTItS98cXtJiVlYJTO6pWGp6cKIDS8qKyju9Rk-36m-0ERcSX2XIqyPfwwWAGbw-MG8g8cjLkKeubZnML-XXkagb8tl6Q/s1600/IMG_0693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKY8KiqEtSvn_Tam-_jGPhr0ltnJjxqSp1vuA6iJatQ9qnbcTItS98cXtJiVlYJTO6pWGp6cKIDS8qKyju9Rk-36m-0ERcSX2XIqyPfwwWAGbw-MG8g8cjLkKeubZnML-XXkagb8tl6Q/s320/IMG_0693.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Since there was a little sister also involved, she was surprised with a purse (random wool in the stash and <a href="http://www.yarndex.com/yarn.cfm?yarn_id=350">Eros</a>). Another improvised design. (Felted measurement: approximate 6" wide)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nW7Tg3vpTpKfGLYfSkLPTrcynUR4fSCeUDx9I6rbcSqjLWsL2JD2BsDFRZyr9OhyuTC8eUc6JIauzhQdcKL1114EfGgstaZSmn6a_aqRjUjLXv_wXQgXgMD01g_fHtN0wMLXRQbT13s/s1600/IMG_0686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nW7Tg3vpTpKfGLYfSkLPTrcynUR4fSCeUDx9I6rbcSqjLWsL2JD2BsDFRZyr9OhyuTC8eUc6JIauzhQdcKL1114EfGgstaZSmn6a_aqRjUjLXv_wXQgXgMD01g_fHtN0wMLXRQbT13s/s320/IMG_0686.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Recently off the needles:<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/skew">Skew</a> in <a href="http://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/409">Koigu pppm</a> (colorway 145). This is my second pair of Skew. I love the concept of the pattern, but the easement through the ankle leaves a bit to be desired when putting them on. Once they are on, they fit like a glove.<br />
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Alas, these are destined for other feet (as soon as they have a bath - the socks that is).Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-5611714097892197142011-08-09T20:44:00.000-04:002011-08-09T20:44:27.044-04:00That time of year againSummer completely blew by us. (I'm sure you could tell from the lack of activity on this blog.) It has been hot. Incredibly hot. The offspring has attended day camp (taking tons of field trips - we didn't have that many fun things going on in day camp when I was a kid), Music and Arts Week, vacation Bible school, Tae Kwon Do camp, and his absolute favorite - Camp Grandparent. (Camp Grandparent = a week with each set of Grands and the 24/7 motto: What would you like now? There are benefits to being the only grandchild for both families.)<br />
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Now, (thankfully) it is time to get back into the school routine! The offspring really couldn't wait for school to start. He misses it. Heck, he LOVES school. (The genes are strong in this family.) He has plowed through a veritable ton of books during the summer in the mist of all his activities.<br />
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I thought I would share a few favorite back-to-school items. All of these items have stood the test of time in our household.<br />
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This <a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/62856?feat=508666-GN2">backpack</a> has been going strong for 2+ yrs and doesn't show signs of stopping. The only small problem we have experienced happened when the school stuck a sticker on the back and the adhesive pulled some of the reflective strip off.<br />
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The offspring carries his lunch to school every single day. We have completely random food allergies in our household. While I could go on and on about the nutritional state of school lunches offered in the US, moral of the story - the one vegetable the offspring is absolutely allergic to is on heavy rotation in the school lunch menu plan. Epi-pens are maintained at school and the offspring takes his lunch. His <a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/70705?feat=508661-GN1">lunch box</a> is in GREAT shape. He uses it everyday of school and off and on throughout the summer. It is literally showing NO signs of wear. I used a Sharpie to label it with his name and address on the inside. The labeling is still highly legible after years of cleaning.<br />
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My husband and I have become champs at packing a lunch box. The offspring makes his selections each evening during dinner and we take care of corralling it all as we clean the kitchen. We have a little shelf on the refrigerator door only used for lunch box staging. For 2+ years, we have used the same <a href="http://www.ziploc.com/Products/Pages/ProductsHome.aspx?products=1&browseBy=On-the-Go&browseByCat=FoodStorage&viewBy=Containers">containers</a>, <a href="http://www.rubbermaid.com/Category/Pages/ProductDetail.aspx?Prod_ID=RP091206&CatName=Beverage">water bottles</a> (place it in a ziplock bag for those times with the kiddos doesn't get it closed **quite** enough), and <a href="http://www.thermosafe.com/model/PP6.html?&Pr10=Transport+Assurance&Pr12=Gel+Packs&Pr2=5.5">ice packs</a> (place in a ziplock bag in case it springs a leak).<br />
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The offspring insists on yogurt and cheese everyday. We freeze yogurt tubes and they are thawed by lunch. We also figured out to include a pair of safety scissors in the outside pocket of the lunch box for days when the pull tab doesn't work as expected on the yogurt tube. (This was particularly important when all the front teeth were missing.) Our favorite brands of yogurt tubes (lower sugar content) are Trader Joe's Squishers, <a href="http://www.stonyfield.com/products/yobaby-yokids/yokids/2oz-8-pack-squeezers/cherry-berry">Squeezers</a>, <a href="http://www.horizondairy.com/">Tuberz</a>, and <a href="http://www.yoplait.com/products/yoplait-simply-gogurt-yogurt">Simply Gogurt</a>. Some of the most requested snacks are: <a href="http://www.clifbar.com/food/products_clif_kid_zbar/">Z bars</a>, <a href="http://www.clifbar.com/food/products_clif_kid_twisted_fruit/">fruit twists</a> (which are apparently now called "Z Fruit Ropes" - both Zbars and Z Fruit Ropes can be purchased at Sams Club in the nutritional supplement section at a much cheaper price than mainstream stores), and <a href="http://www.crispygreen.com/">freeze dried fruit</a>.<br />
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Each day, the offspring gets a small dessert with lunch. I try to keep a variety of brownies or other bar cookies on hand. I bake a 9x13 dish and after it has cooled, cut them into small squares, place in a gallon ziplock freezer bag and freeze. We will pull one out the night before, package it, and place in on the lunch box shelf in the refrigerator. The offspring loves having a variety of homemade treats as a surprise each day. It is the small things that can make a huge impact on a person's life. Don't forget it.<br />
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(The Blond Brownie recipe from <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-flour-200th-anniversary-cookbook">here</a> has been a HUGE hit. I blended bittersweet and milk chocolate chips.)<br />
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There has been a lot going on in the kitchen and on the needles. I promise to update soon.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-63289032329508761252011-07-19T19:48:00.000-04:002011-07-19T19:48:45.578-04:00On the road again....Work travel has been a bit much recently. (I know, I know - there is at least one person who reads this blog that I can not hold a candle to their work travel schedule.) Summer generally brings a spate of speaking engagements and professional meetings.<br />
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For the past five years, I teach for two solid (and I do mean S.O.L.I.D) days at a particular university located in Madison, WI. Between traveling to and fro (along with giving that pesky exam the students seem to enjoy so much), it takes about 4 days out of my crammed summer schedule and zaps the heck out of me. (While I do enjoy talking, lecturing almost 8 hr a day for two days straight is a bit much.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBE2Si4S8tZlewzF9UXPI0TZNp7rPvPIVlaTql3ITKxq89BbXGhbRpQuSG71MXuHqTo0x2sVcK5CYSi4dzyaXyAkKBsGsCMZGeQAJHYXrsgs13NH2cnCYSP4bb0dTGdBKUFnOB5a60Ps/s1600/photo%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBE2Si4S8tZlewzF9UXPI0TZNp7rPvPIVlaTql3ITKxq89BbXGhbRpQuSG71MXuHqTo0x2sVcK5CYSi4dzyaXyAkKBsGsCMZGeQAJHYXrsgs13NH2cnCYSP4bb0dTGdBKUFnOB5a60Ps/s320/photo%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>If I am lucky, I finish up lectures one day in time to hit the Penzeys Spices right down the street from the university.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOx0C1OEetr8KZyE1lVQilbmVS1uuFjCQtMbYVzT4koVuAfgWjcg3hmUPiJuiNcyzcMDzWP6X9jvLqM1cyxESjDvyDzL86EmxInX3yXbRfWAkkAiR5VwHQnMkGhFXNTtrzGnQirJueva0/s1600/photo%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOx0C1OEetr8KZyE1lVQilbmVS1uuFjCQtMbYVzT4koVuAfgWjcg3hmUPiJuiNcyzcMDzWP6X9jvLqM1cyxESjDvyDzL86EmxInX3yXbRfWAkkAiR5VwHQnMkGhFXNTtrzGnQirJueva0/s320/photo%25289%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>They have expanded since last year!<br />
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(Yes, I asked the staff if it was OK for me to take pictures while I shopped. They are so kind, they didn't in bat an eye when I told them I wanted to blog about it.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmkB6oEnW5AxIvOcHdSMwSWB1P84KSYro3s15MhL8FgVj8dl3zvQVX546i1eQikr0mMkRvVyQgRhdmX6DqGcJ_aLKu63ptGPwluWe64yX_7yeXv3gySgGw9LBJkby2IgLyfWPVOCECsU/s1600/photo%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmkB6oEnW5AxIvOcHdSMwSWB1P84KSYro3s15MhL8FgVj8dl3zvQVX546i1eQikr0mMkRvVyQgRhdmX6DqGcJ_aLKu63ptGPwluWe64yX_7yeXv3gySgGw9LBJkby2IgLyfWPVOCECsU/s320/photo%25286%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This gives you a minute example of what awaits at every store.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoanoS4zd9BxjNarZ4kdrtP9d0EFbVg-GLWg0v3k8SQ1KY3a8R8A5Zt0eMruFxincVTsXBQzVfABOwS2FQU7D05u1s3dOlCzYUDoO0a_HAEUNAiWFn_MriA4d-4P2pnJmAhTe0_Zpu-I/s1600/photo%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoanoS4zd9BxjNarZ4kdrtP9d0EFbVg-GLWg0v3k8SQ1KY3a8R8A5Zt0eMruFxincVTsXBQzVfABOwS2FQU7D05u1s3dOlCzYUDoO0a_HAEUNAiWFn_MriA4d-4P2pnJmAhTe0_Zpu-I/s320/photo%25288%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6r0xcupF2Z3uhDTgVbOoWv9C2La605jtBuUFLJj2gHB3qCsAK2bk7yoeIDySFxS5HeAPXQsSHAmB7pXuyH3onqEJW6VKThxGSttVCh1OLYMcud5-9MlWXO2SThY8iUgf0Aaxb3-1TF4/s1600/photo%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6r0xcupF2Z3uhDTgVbOoWv9C2La605jtBuUFLJj2gHB3qCsAK2bk7yoeIDySFxS5HeAPXQsSHAmB7pXuyH3onqEJW6VKThxGSttVCh1OLYMcud5-9MlWXO2SThY8iUgf0Aaxb3-1TF4/s320/photo%25287%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ammq5V0dEM6zMgl5kdIQhy1OSK3nHzVt-IE3lWOByCLgIXEBA04QgmqPBKrt1hsPqg-q4YQhzHonzbh40OkDJUq-4-Sq8z-k9HGojaL64R9wkLkCNh9tK4HWE85LH5ZjO5w2vfPjN-M/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ammq5V0dEM6zMgl5kdIQhy1OSK3nHzVt-IE3lWOByCLgIXEBA04QgmqPBKrt1hsPqg-q4YQhzHonzbh40OkDJUq-4-Sq8z-k9HGojaL64R9wkLkCNh9tK4HWE85LH5ZjO5w2vfPjN-M/s320/photo%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Personally, I thought I did pretty freaking well.<br />
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1) I only spent $68 on some fabulous new things and a few old favorites that needed replenishing.<br />
2) I was "quick" and actually finished just at 7p when the store was closing. (I didn't arrive until 6p.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXehVsZW5eqILxK3jx8o2amXHeFGVqRb0kf_sbVM9FF845KxQocj7Vw2bLoIVgGfrb0BUogsdZ61r0chUV2kaAYrH7RylzZ407oqRlAHkLGiC2DQE5VkuYhV4BANdPFZl_oCD6n0Rebc/s1600/photo%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXehVsZW5eqILxK3jx8o2amXHeFGVqRb0kf_sbVM9FF845KxQocj7Vw2bLoIVgGfrb0BUogsdZ61r0chUV2kaAYrH7RylzZ407oqRlAHkLGiC2DQE5VkuYhV4BANdPFZl_oCD6n0Rebc/s320/photo%252810%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Other random things from the trip.<br />
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This was my view on the flight from Chicago to Madison. I asked if I had been assigned that "time out" seat. The flight attendant and I spent a good bit of time chatting since she was seated in front of me most of the flight (only 21 minutes flying time).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMy0oowT6I0Mbepqs_vwPOMY7bS24CV6wfWKSMka1BaMvEcuYD4ngYzdeZivcScGFmCuXeg65_b4lC5EzsW0374P7BjQIbFxmMKbbN6X18-6cvdu4iC4jNrrH-HxBByy6iKrAZen1mfek/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMy0oowT6I0Mbepqs_vwPOMY7bS24CV6wfWKSMka1BaMvEcuYD4ngYzdeZivcScGFmCuXeg65_b4lC5EzsW0374P7BjQIbFxmMKbbN6X18-6cvdu4iC4jNrrH-HxBByy6iKrAZen1mfek/s320/photo%25281%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>This water fountain ROCKS. As a person who carried a stainless steel water bottle with me almost everywhere, it was awesome to have a water fountain available to accommodate reusable water bottles.<br />
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It doesn't take a whole lot to excite me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fFExtJY9zM14m9NOH5f0L-JyfANJmTnmgE5eI605Bk5977aqDxEGhAjCdZ4aUrP-Twx08dPGSaaGHfmGdWV-OurHUuAhk3dQvbd3ozgIkZKNxDVHqdmXXKAJsOKfXwOgtJoPjg2HKno/s1600/photo%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fFExtJY9zM14m9NOH5f0L-JyfANJmTnmgE5eI605Bk5977aqDxEGhAjCdZ4aUrP-Twx08dPGSaaGHfmGdWV-OurHUuAhk3dQvbd3ozgIkZKNxDVHqdmXXKAJsOKfXwOgtJoPjg2HKno/s320/photo%252811%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Want to attract all young girls within a three gate area at the airport? Knit a splashy colored pair of socks.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoeDNJHE3LltJ5mSroYVOx0z0KbWq81b70P0V15WJsAH5DU7I2i0YGbdAmAUYmrc80RPafVvK6JUvDEt59p9bl1MAGjDoNg2Xyg-Cpl7UzxJjgWV8HWRksQ8yMG4LB4iQmIsKquKXrPu0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoeDNJHE3LltJ5mSroYVOx0z0KbWq81b70P0V15WJsAH5DU7I2i0YGbdAmAUYmrc80RPafVvK6JUvDEt59p9bl1MAGjDoNg2Xyg-Cpl7UzxJjgWV8HWRksQ8yMG4LB4iQmIsKquKXrPu0/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Most exciting news yet?<br />
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The offspring has earned his first level provisional black belt in Taekwondo!<br />
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He is beyond excited and we are extremely proud!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-71274190636009877852011-07-09T21:03:00.000-04:002011-07-09T21:03:43.152-04:00Crying fowl!As much as I dislike a certain grocery store chain, there is a store in the same shopping center as the Taekwondo studio the offspring attends. It is hard to justify an additional stop during an already busy day/evening when you have an hour available to walk over to the store. Last Friday, I went to grab some fresh cilantro (since it won't make it 6 days between "grocery day" and when it was needed) and cheese (greater consumption than planned) for dinner. Commuting from produce to dairy led me past the frozen turkey case. What do I spy? A <b>HUGE</b> sale. ($0.59/pound for whole birds vs $1.89!!!) So, I schlepped a 12.5 lb bird back to Taekwondo.<br />
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Time to smoke some turkeys!<br />
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I called a dear friend and she grabbed one also. (Which found its way to our house.) After thawing in the spare refrigerator for a week, I started the brining/smoking process.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXu0_fKqtr3opH_slX6PskVs4Dy0yWQKCUbusQvLDzuMp7nOAmVjZOQdo-bfgcNMiHY1Z4rrjTtd_pbhbRO9Bju3r2l5S-VaxjQMtRY3KAta0edk-T_S-mTh5a5kL9Uf6x5D4x1C8sJY/s1600/DSC04994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXu0_fKqtr3opH_slX6PskVs4Dy0yWQKCUbusQvLDzuMp7nOAmVjZOQdo-bfgcNMiHY1Z4rrjTtd_pbhbRO9Bju3r2l5S-VaxjQMtRY3KAta0edk-T_S-mTh5a5kL9Uf6x5D4x1C8sJY/s320/DSC04994.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I started by giving the herbs a bit of a hair cut. (You can't even tell I was out there. They are loving this summer.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvs43F7f7zNb_p8UcdAwNL5yGOumVEsMKj1J2pXJErXaXyhBWX9-uLLvH7kNqL902JwewAtbnsLvNRuTTyCPQny2IOV6nbVeii7Mfheep1Irox-N7Vo1n5rum9V4k8xTSroK1y-29PYE/s1600/DSC04996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvs43F7f7zNb_p8UcdAwNL5yGOumVEsMKj1J2pXJErXaXyhBWX9-uLLvH7kNqL902JwewAtbnsLvNRuTTyCPQny2IOV6nbVeii7Mfheep1Irox-N7Vo1n5rum9V4k8xTSroK1y-29PYE/s320/DSC04996.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I placed two bags (you can use trash bags - if your brand of trash bags has an issue with leaking, use three) in a large stock pot. I used a 16 qt and a 20 qt for the two turkeys. I threw half my herb assortment in along with a handful of whole peppercorns.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-SEWQ5zenvlrStU12isZYplbolj7QWvJ0HDZBCRwZNcHdaxlnDw87G3lHG1EBTZs5WOr2fPJujXtR5_ZQBGxWK80tS3wkTfPjg51kH3z92TMUQQPzxLDzpK2EpeZDryOdqF38IcsRK4/s1600/DSC04999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-SEWQ5zenvlrStU12isZYplbolj7QWvJ0HDZBCRwZNcHdaxlnDw87G3lHG1EBTZs5WOr2fPJujXtR5_ZQBGxWK80tS3wkTfPjg51kH3z92TMUQQPzxLDzpK2EpeZDryOdqF38IcsRK4/s320/DSC04999.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I placed the turkey in the pot with the back facing upwards. If you end up with an air pocket in your bag, the back will not be submerged in the brine vs the breast.<br />
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Make sure to remove the neck and giblets from the abdominal cavity. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs_GMPcKwRRyMU4ETJhyJIJUM3megNBMzNnYohwqQHStKt8b5Gief78dRllWCT3eiPRLg40nJXe8Le9d_4UlVTxdMehG3ZJt7Bg7y9sg5rbi6eJ2BVI12wlmFCWBHUPCmWj7tKflxoFsM/s1600/DSC05000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs_GMPcKwRRyMU4ETJhyJIJUM3megNBMzNnYohwqQHStKt8b5Gief78dRllWCT3eiPRLg40nJXe8Le9d_4UlVTxdMehG3ZJt7Bg7y9sg5rbi6eJ2BVI12wlmFCWBHUPCmWj7tKflxoFsM/s320/DSC05000.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I mix up a brine. The ratios I generally use are:<br />
1 gallon water/4 lbs of bird weight<br />
1 lb salt/gallon of water<br />
1/2 c sugar/gallon of water<br />
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(For my 12 lb bird, I used 3 gallons of water, 3 lbs of salt, and 1 1/2 c of sugar.) <br />
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Dissolve the salt and sugar in the water. The salt and sugar will dissolve more easily if you mix up each gallon separately. Pour the brine into the brining bag set-up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSHOfl2eUJ-dp1He42xSAZnbwcI96bfdA1hENk9a8qeO70n4kX8VihKI5e8cm_W0xLWNrxhn9enPgmTazIqZUqIludVszkejR6vmBWAtJS__xe1whioAmMWSrLpR48WJalV0XUYQZHPE/s1600/DSC05003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSHOfl2eUJ-dp1He42xSAZnbwcI96bfdA1hENk9a8qeO70n4kX8VihKI5e8cm_W0xLWNrxhn9enPgmTazIqZUqIludVszkejR6vmBWAtJS__xe1whioAmMWSrLpR48WJalV0XUYQZHPE/s320/DSC05003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Pull the inner most bag up and squeeze out as much air as possible. Make sure to jiggle the bird a bit to ensure you have all the air out of the abdominal cavity. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5zK-yVtV5ka5z9Zkm9VY9IfsGf3_5FcJ4EkGySw34qj80-XZlnTCZVyflumfz45DC9O3t9Qse5CSjkChFCGCc55B_iecv4pYICYVQ8gy3dDuWyNVtm-_E9SZMfCVPbrzhEYNhyphenhyphen_umVTA/s1600/DSC05004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5zK-yVtV5ka5z9Zkm9VY9IfsGf3_5FcJ4EkGySw34qj80-XZlnTCZVyflumfz45DC9O3t9Qse5CSjkChFCGCc55B_iecv4pYICYVQ8gy3dDuWyNVtm-_E9SZMfCVPbrzhEYNhyphenhyphen_umVTA/s320/DSC05004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Twist the bag and secure with a rubber band.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJS6GQJy4oKGRoDp2LVeaGU2sLUKLRian2aBvbgDFmaYyeglsGglRL77QPnYFpvHVdrmRNcbj1174IXqYPqyL92ZYAQ_x_M3HU3O0adqRa4N2GMycWH_fti4JVRm5v4b6S_HDPkNVc6g/s1600/DSC05005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJS6GQJy4oKGRoDp2LVeaGU2sLUKLRian2aBvbgDFmaYyeglsGglRL77QPnYFpvHVdrmRNcbj1174IXqYPqyL92ZYAQ_x_M3HU3O0adqRa4N2GMycWH_fti4JVRm5v4b6S_HDPkNVc6g/s320/DSC05005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Pull up the second bag and repeat the closure process.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQG4cgYsVeMDdlr5vtjY1Kj3NATauEazFEk-0b3GBZy_hnxz4pwHqvG2lt-Jlfpoz9eNFCLWXTNKdZWRNvI7b5wLlm_1SL7_xhTu5SjQYvDO_7OBkaBJwOSG6Gk9qeQOsmlwhqCbr7uQ/s1600/DSC05007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQG4cgYsVeMDdlr5vtjY1Kj3NATauEazFEk-0b3GBZy_hnxz4pwHqvG2lt-Jlfpoz9eNFCLWXTNKdZWRNvI7b5wLlm_1SL7_xhTu5SjQYvDO_7OBkaBJwOSG6Gk9qeQOsmlwhqCbr7uQ/s320/DSC05007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Place the bird in the refrigerator and allow it to brine for about 12 hours before smoking.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUubRo7kTStM58ZFd6FtShc-aiG9QrFMdmjNEpSgLSHk7ZUswykAoDbmBFfUOK_V6Vc0-LB1sTvRGs01CAhEsRkfNqfXuvVMs7fizD8sawAzOXuLim6W61ciTd-28zigVH2HkLpc_Uh3k/s1600/DSC05011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUubRo7kTStM58ZFd6FtShc-aiG9QrFMdmjNEpSgLSHk7ZUswykAoDbmBFfUOK_V6Vc0-LB1sTvRGs01CAhEsRkfNqfXuvVMs7fizD8sawAzOXuLim6W61ciTd-28zigVH2HkLpc_Uh3k/s320/DSC05011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Twelve hours or so later, prep your grill. My husband prefers to set the fire on one side of our grill and place the meat for smoking on the other side.<br />
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A good bit of fat comes out of the turkey during the smoking/grilling process, so we line the turkey side of the grill with aluminum foil to ease clean-up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vE3ya6_JUVnRC_5EDcEzp14eIpuPPLAB_y7RtPIkf_LDQGTyrwN7Ap2wgshyw-5H91gaAYWp_kTxCQSRcAJtc-_8pgIFwaw6emW9FAzH_MJ6oKsswF33F9CzZ2RJTIXXVlAAnK7_vNw/s1600/DSC05012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vE3ya6_JUVnRC_5EDcEzp14eIpuPPLAB_y7RtPIkf_LDQGTyrwN7Ap2wgshyw-5H91gaAYWp_kTxCQSRcAJtc-_8pgIFwaw6emW9FAzH_MJ6oKsswF33F9CzZ2RJTIXXVlAAnK7_vNw/s320/DSC05012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Once the fire is ready, remove the bird from the brine and allow it to drain.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymKu8xwcA2Xtv_SCxmeTfzKjzuQIUHiudr0bI3knVYkt43L2URNCICf99bdvS5Ejqfk7w70LsL7BSbz4QYTKQAImtphXiEb7lKlVHfr_9nbuh5G__6KJ_W8Oe3itNYidA02ASxuZSuQ8/s1600/DSC05013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymKu8xwcA2Xtv_SCxmeTfzKjzuQIUHiudr0bI3knVYkt43L2URNCICf99bdvS5Ejqfk7w70LsL7BSbz4QYTKQAImtphXiEb7lKlVHfr_9nbuh5G__6KJ_W8Oe3itNYidA02ASxuZSuQ8/s320/DSC05013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Pat the bird with some paper towels. Immediately dispose of the paper towels to prevent potential microbial cross contamination.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGI8nIGSJ7MuvmS5_kMVKOkORR6697PaVY_4vPdjqcaV8B36xgV5_TwAxSvGnV9IU5O-MOLbegmhVWEWWOqoPe14mHMG3rS5uuGIb8QbZPtprt4NmayJhzbZpnXdu23P7Wk4ObM1Bj60/s1600/DSC05015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGI8nIGSJ7MuvmS5_kMVKOkORR6697PaVY_4vPdjqcaV8B36xgV5_TwAxSvGnV9IU5O-MOLbegmhVWEWWOqoPe14mHMG3rS5uuGIb8QbZPtprt4NmayJhzbZpnXdu23P7Wk4ObM1Bj60/s320/DSC05015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Place the birds on the grill.<br />
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My husband prefers to cover the grate of the "fire side" of the grill with several layers of foil to help direct the heat, and more importantly, the smoke towards the birds on the "cooking side".<br />
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(In this picture, all of the fire is on the left side of the grill.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4lviYFVeQeOYPhRRnDRXHwFRIrEfpTljTjhbWSdxQWXYjXgwM-DZy_NQiu4df__9DIlnKmzEsYGwemztOWmJbgSxyMd5D7cJNJbWBRK9XMkE3MxAFxCQR6vSpGuSb9Wtm0Gwldox6kY/s1600/DSC05018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4lviYFVeQeOYPhRRnDRXHwFRIrEfpTljTjhbWSdxQWXYjXgwM-DZy_NQiu4df__9DIlnKmzEsYGwemztOWmJbgSxyMd5D7cJNJbWBRK9XMkE3MxAFxCQR6vSpGuSb9Wtm0Gwldox6kY/s320/DSC05018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We prefer hickory wood chunks for smoking. We soak the wood chunks for at least 30 minutes before using.<br />
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I like to smoke turkeys for about one hour. After this time, we only add additional charcoal to the grill.<br />
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(After the smoking process is over, I like to throw any cast iron in need of a new seasoning coat on the "fire side" of the grill. Might as well make good use of the long fire.) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57bJmPGYqWtULSuPdDy_ptqd45BPOCbJkIO1nLKuC0fW0EDR3j725D6xjE_x69byD7BNAa6X2_NR3CR6ZPUZRu8XdrBK3qcAdm39VQ-0oQjZ-iB_CW80T_NxVwd_cJWtu7cJf0WU1Kc8/s1600/DSC05021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57bJmPGYqWtULSuPdDy_ptqd45BPOCbJkIO1nLKuC0fW0EDR3j725D6xjE_x69byD7BNAa6X2_NR3CR6ZPUZRu8XdrBK3qcAdm39VQ-0oQjZ-iB_CW80T_NxVwd_cJWtu7cJf0WU1Kc8/s320/DSC05021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We maintain a steady fire throughout the smoking and cooking process. We shoot for approximately a 300F average temperature on the "cooking side" of the grill.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_fe3RM-7zJr6Qalru4Q782kI05riPOy_W8z9fVkQXLrF9qvnFGjbn49YxGLdDmDzhhDIX7rI-AHUnbHiLSy43F25NTyKRoU9UCyzoPjMGnnHcNg1vP9isKiSlj_l98-AEgZNDDRKmBM/s1600/DSC05022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_fe3RM-7zJr6Qalru4Q782kI05riPOy_W8z9fVkQXLrF9qvnFGjbn49YxGLdDmDzhhDIX7rI-AHUnbHiLSy43F25NTyKRoU9UCyzoPjMGnnHcNg1vP9isKiSlj_l98-AEgZNDDRKmBM/s320/DSC05022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Cook until the deep portion of the thigh registers at least 165F. The two 12 lb birds took about 4 hours today. They taste fabulous!<br />
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We ate some for dinner. The rest was froze for both families to use later.<br />
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The carcasses are sitting in the spare fridge waiting to be converted to smoked turkey broth. (I refuse to waste anything.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-12770064506885500062011-07-05T20:23:00.000-04:002011-07-05T20:23:09.462-04:00A great gift ideaMost of my fondest memories revolve around food or more precisely, sharing food with others. Food does much more than nourish our bodies. Gathering together to share food allows us to commune with family, friends, and love ones, providing us with emotional nourishment. The act of preparing food can also provide a mental release after a long day.<br />
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Need a gift for a recent graduate/newlyweds/new home/new parents? When these opportunities arrive, I generally turn to food. Who wouldn't?<br />
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One of my favorite items to gift is Mark Bittman's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cook-Everything-Completely-Revised-Anniversary/dp/0764578650/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1309909049&sr=8-1">How to Cook Everything</a>.<br />
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This book offers tons of great recipes presented in simple terms and will accessible ingredients. Additionally, there isn't a need for lots of high end kitchen equipment. Bittman has prepared a vast repertoire recipes which cross many regions and ethnicities.<br />
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Cooking for ourselves with fresh ingredients also provides our body with healthy, nutrient dense foods.<br />
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There are many available format options available. If you would rather, the book is available in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Everything-Completely-Revised-Anniversary-ebook/dp/B003BXRO3O/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1309909049&sr=8-1">Kindle</a>; <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-cook-everything-mark-bittman/1018171908">Nook</a>; and <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/how-to-cook-everything/id367690249?mt=8">iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad</a> formats.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-5117928660755144382011-06-25T17:28:00.000-04:002011-06-25T17:28:40.360-04:00Fiber goodnessI haven't been spinning much. (Yarn. I spin yarn. Not an exercise class.)<br />
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In fact, the last time I spun was late January. Life (and work - lots of work) got in the way. Now that we are into the summer routine (and on a bit of a work travel break) I busted out Victoria. Luckily, she wasn't mad at me and we had a wonderful experience spending time together in the evening this past week.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfM5xpCJG80VQWZczTeojW5-mDev1GMn0Zl6e22Cl43pZsw_QaE-znVvKfQweDQ5hw0s4kmn7M9OwZQKMrvTC9QWnehNOQEEF8l-MM_Jkj4X8HbeG-OsEC09QREF67V_dwSmSc5EQhlA/s1600/DSC04956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfM5xpCJG80VQWZczTeojW5-mDev1GMn0Zl6e22Cl43pZsw_QaE-znVvKfQweDQ5hw0s4kmn7M9OwZQKMrvTC9QWnehNOQEEF8l-MM_Jkj4X8HbeG-OsEC09QREF67V_dwSmSc5EQhlA/s320/DSC04956.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Kaleidoscope (BFL and Tussah silk; 4 oz) from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpinningAwesomeGood">Spinning Awesome Good</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7hbl2lJZdRPHzCY9JPnZHiaJhyphenhyphenznSAR1-cjseIjlBN8fuyDX4hQguK0YzSVqtk1d79U9VtHIlJYKhKBO9C9TpGY8HPtyE3dMjSz-Q7wol2WyraBQ7rYtZQ6Vq6v6k9x1FwJiSvPBSVM/s1600/DSC04971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7hbl2lJZdRPHzCY9JPnZHiaJhyphenhyphenznSAR1-cjseIjlBN8fuyDX4hQguK0YzSVqtk1d79U9VtHIlJYKhKBO9C9TpGY8HPtyE3dMjSz-Q7wol2WyraBQ7rYtZQ6Vq6v6k9x1FwJiSvPBSVM/s320/DSC04971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One of the singles before plying.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2WDpxSOjVmI5M-xSJrSl7tV9hDjX1f0fCtGySqd-owQ771-WafEUmUey4jp4rw2DaO1wol9w_j9LsrMB9IDfp84M0w_U2VbrmQ_N_FG7zLHrOECIDt_C1RmTvyxwlqiKj_pR-fUxmZ0/s1600/DSC04981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2WDpxSOjVmI5M-xSJrSl7tV9hDjX1f0fCtGySqd-owQ771-WafEUmUey4jp4rw2DaO1wol9w_j9LsrMB9IDfp84M0w_U2VbrmQ_N_FG7zLHrOECIDt_C1RmTvyxwlqiKj_pR-fUxmZ0/s320/DSC04981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Approximately 500 yds (fingering weight), two ply.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFTrK_7ZP3xroWv_HoYFKRdXp1SvK-yk0GdsL-4TmQsoybRe4IS2RYJkakvfdqJWJZhJu8spvsv3D8ci0-3s2F4dL7rtR8VfG9Y3X8n-XOpxhroyk3JBk1Xc-mHeJZJodimdRYTMd4x8/s1600/DSC04976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFTrK_7ZP3xroWv_HoYFKRdXp1SvK-yk0GdsL-4TmQsoybRe4IS2RYJkakvfdqJWJZhJu8spvsv3D8ci0-3s2F4dL7rtR8VfG9Y3X8n-XOpxhroyk3JBk1Xc-mHeJZJodimdRYTMd4x8/s320/DSC04976.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Now, the great decision of what to make. We all know I am rather partial to socks, so that is always an option. Of course, this could become a lace shawl/stole. Scarves are always an option also. Feel free to voice your opinion.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhNl9434HRcves341qg1FKjlV3W4PuActBZE-psgH3fdpxE3o24jYKfXlA84Fhn9gY_0qOsve64UrXwpyry8HD9zmlBXbgKmrH3nsCZebm3CoRoBGMZoWQhCzm7ap096vey3TMSCLna4/s1600/DSC04982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhNl9434HRcves341qg1FKjlV3W4PuActBZE-psgH3fdpxE3o24jYKfXlA84Fhn9gY_0qOsve64UrXwpyry8HD9zmlBXbgKmrH3nsCZebm3CoRoBGMZoWQhCzm7ap096vey3TMSCLna4/s320/DSC04982.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The garden is zooming along. We had a fabulous "mess" of snow peas this week. In short order, we are going to have various tomatoes out our ears. (We are looking forward to it.) Several batches of fresh pesto have also been consumed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8ai4Wdf_z_CeW-75irPvEZFLdm4AZxaOnCEUIgCkoyLdw48SCHOrVTD7pTrPrgKh-ImJHcW_FLEnnq2peMsxWULJZKpT9GxYdN8SfFpg9_JBs6ajePea-doF39BUF5WIBYwMHjqWAS8/s1600/DSC04983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8ai4Wdf_z_CeW-75irPvEZFLdm4AZxaOnCEUIgCkoyLdw48SCHOrVTD7pTrPrgKh-ImJHcW_FLEnnq2peMsxWULJZKpT9GxYdN8SfFpg9_JBs6ajePea-doF39BUF5WIBYwMHjqWAS8/s320/DSC04983.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The potted perennial herbs are also very happy. Cooking this time of year is a thrill.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDdd5kUsrnUvnCOSgC50vXPS2E-F3zG9WfmdnQoA9XNb9q4KRW8_AGgT6cjElcqGunVDHEsAGJsVi-Jjd6UXQ1sJWz0dBuC15yzqfxr1es045a5xOLV3T4HzX62L28DaWmEWrZw3SPUw/s1600/DSC04979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDdd5kUsrnUvnCOSgC50vXPS2E-F3zG9WfmdnQoA9XNb9q4KRW8_AGgT6cjElcqGunVDHEsAGJsVi-Jjd6UXQ1sJWz0dBuC15yzqfxr1es045a5xOLV3T4HzX62L28DaWmEWrZw3SPUw/s320/DSC04979.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Bonus shot:<br />
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Photo shoot supervisor. She takes her job VERY seriously.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-88034540300265491282011-06-19T21:46:00.000-04:002011-06-19T21:46:18.611-04:00How do you know it has been a great weekend?Happy Father's Day to all the men who make a positive impact on children young and old! I have been blessed with a father who taught me to be self-confident, a problem solver, head strong and stubborn. The greatest impact my father had was providing me a shining example of how fulfilled a person with a strong faith can be, no matter their circumstances. I have acquired a fabulous father-in-law. Of course, my spouse is a GREAT father to our offspring. I can't imagine our lives without the offspring and the joy (and trials) of watching him grow into a young man. Love you honey!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLLLgnX6DhZq3nxUjuEBSmDxYYZ26Mmd4DS_0mmS7vaGAv582Ah1eDs0wo7oPKm-_kr-x8iI7_H34ayEA3LQGc8sw1VEWfTQdfs71pprUwyG_KlHue98iEogQGvDoNj9T0z9WiUnEubI/s1600/DSC04961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLLLgnX6DhZq3nxUjuEBSmDxYYZ26Mmd4DS_0mmS7vaGAv582Ah1eDs0wo7oPKm-_kr-x8iI7_H34ayEA3LQGc8sw1VEWfTQdfs71pprUwyG_KlHue98iEogQGvDoNj9T0z9WiUnEubI/s320/DSC04961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>So, back to the question at hand. How do you know it has been a great weekend? At our house, a solid sign is running a full dishwasher three times in two days! It has been a wonderful weekend of family time and food. (These two generally go hand-in-hand at our house.)<br />
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I baked a loaf of <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/italian-hearth-bread-recipe">Italian Hearth Bread</a> in my <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/long-covered-baker">covered baker</a>. We grilled some of the bread with our dinner last night (grilled chicken tenderloins, grilled corn, grilled squash, grilled bread). Leftover bread was used for grilled provolone sandwiches for lunch (with fresh peaches and raspberries).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWf86tXITyhFw9dtz9qJJE7UbqPVR4SM1Mdct1WIdCyE1Tv0Y4sQEiWXZ8RRkW9v6NjRsZjmn-c9tPknlBzoDyxe8OlJwD9WpCX_WHno7hTA57UBdXgamuYSHRXbQPHVVu9XVFpoHc_NE/s1600/DSC04962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWf86tXITyhFw9dtz9qJJE7UbqPVR4SM1Mdct1WIdCyE1Tv0Y4sQEiWXZ8RRkW9v6NjRsZjmn-c9tPknlBzoDyxe8OlJwD9WpCX_WHno7hTA57UBdXgamuYSHRXbQPHVVu9XVFpoHc_NE/s320/DSC04962.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Today's dinner included roasted pork loin (seasoned with <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysnorthwoodsfire.html">Northwoods Fire</a>), roasted tri-colored potatoes, capress, and banana cupcakes. The potatoes were thrown together and wonderful! I cut the potatoes in half (or quarters for the slightly larger ones) and placed them in a gallon ziplock bag with a generous slug of extra virgin olive oil. I combined (approximate proportions) 1 T <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-white-whole-wheat-flour-5-lb">white wheat flour</a>, 1 T <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeyscajunspicy.html">cajun seasoning</a>, 2 t <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysmustardpowder.html">dried mustard</a>, 2 t kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. I tossed the seasoning mix in with the potatoes then dumped them in a shallow baking pan. I roasted them at 350F in a convection oven for approximately 50 minutes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_EdtJoCjSyNbB120YtsoW7GyUpjJOShyphenhyphent5F8-NTGQtNGJlOGAeJs1DRl5bKQAxcjEm7TUV-E2E7NDKcVzfIWtsMM61BTk2g8X66GoYf-_FvFwwjZvPwCmFa5nStrlfyDwAuuaam6GB0Q/s1600/DSC04960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_EdtJoCjSyNbB120YtsoW7GyUpjJOShyphenhyphent5F8-NTGQtNGJlOGAeJs1DRl5bKQAxcjEm7TUV-E2E7NDKcVzfIWtsMM61BTk2g8X66GoYf-_FvFwwjZvPwCmFa5nStrlfyDwAuuaam6GB0Q/s320/DSC04960.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bon-Appetit-Cookbook-Barbara-Fairchild/dp/B0013L2DPK/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1308532954&sr=8-6">banana cupcakes</a> were very good. I thought the buttercream frosting was a bit much, but the day's honoree wanted a lot of frosting. His thoughts: "They taste like fluffy banana bread." I think a sprinkle of chopped walnuts would be a nice touch on the frosting next time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5dyFwdq-x_qJWDZSnZEeH-4iUgHkcrZTH5wDmEIZZEp5JurQM6SAkLdsony21nzB_FlIxXbJNLGS8PthapVI9_IsycJk9Aj1cFz7MsFzh_ysBs4icV6fW9Qe2APsgMM0psDjvGhSEfmA/s1600/DSC04965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5dyFwdq-x_qJWDZSnZEeH-4iUgHkcrZTH5wDmEIZZEp5JurQM6SAkLdsony21nzB_FlIxXbJNLGS8PthapVI9_IsycJk9Aj1cFz7MsFzh_ysBs4icV6fW9Qe2APsgMM0psDjvGhSEfmA/s320/DSC04965.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>News from the needles:<br />
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I finished a pair of <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEspring06/PATThedera.html">Hedera</a> in <a href="http://www.jojoland.com/do/menu/Select?topIndex=0&subIndex=4">Jojoland Melody</a> (colorway MS29). I quite like them. There is another pair of socks on the needles for a "walking around project" in my purse.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKjMbJXXL4mJ7HydSFlK90AtPZ8z9IXKwFRVr-sFTWQHuVzMjcDXAUjrFu9GpVMgLCLTJmUxaiOyNJHKyVYOtIYzZ75YdtBexD88KcNv4p5iLcIkf0eWEJoO9URxJ_Wd5UPbgmyHN8mM/s1600/DSC04971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKjMbJXXL4mJ7HydSFlK90AtPZ8z9IXKwFRVr-sFTWQHuVzMjcDXAUjrFu9GpVMgLCLTJmUxaiOyNJHKyVYOtIYzZ75YdtBexD88KcNv4p5iLcIkf0eWEJoO9URxJ_Wd5UPbgmyHN8mM/s320/DSC04971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>In the meantime, I am in the mist of some spinning. I'll update more when it is finished. It is nice to finally have the time to pull out my <a href="http://www.louet.com/spinning_weaving/victoria.shtml">Louet Victoria</a>. I have missed spending time with her.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-13041856864971661982011-06-07T20:39:00.000-04:002011-06-07T20:39:40.920-04:00Kitchen workhorse - example AWell over 15 years ago, my in-laws gave me a <a href="http://www.cuisinart.com/products/food_processors/dlc-8s.html">Cuisinart 11 cup food processor</a>. I was in grad school at the time and we definitely did not have the cash laying around to make such a purchase. I was asked to dream big for my Christmas list. I did. I felt a rush of emotions when I opened my present. Simultaneously, I was excited to have such a great piece of kitchen equipment and guilty about them spending money on me. (I'm one of those folks who loves to buy/make other people presents, but would be happier if they didn't give me a present in return.)<br />
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After all these years, the Cuisinart 11 cup is still hanging in there! I use it at least once a week. (I also have a Cuisinart mini-prep that is 17 years old and still ticking. I did replace the blade assembly about 10 years ago due to a crack forming in the collar of the assembly.) I L.O.V.E. this machine. I have made a lot of yeast bread dough over the years. "Kneading" is a snap in a good food processor. Four, 10 second burst and you are done! The food processor works best for single loaf baking. When I plan to make 2-3 loaves at once, I switch to the standing mixer. Yeasted sweet doughs (such as cinnamon rolls) are a tad heavy for even a strong food processor. (Back to the stand mixer.)<br />
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I have yet to meet someone who hasn't loved their Cuisinart food processor. I'm not sure that the 7 cup model would be adequate for a family. While I often covet the 14 cup model, the 11 cup model has performed superbly for our family. (I have really given it a workout too.)<br />
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As the summer progresses, quarts of pesto, pounds of yeast bread/pizza/bread stick/focaccia dough, plenty of cheesecakes (I'll share this later), homemade panko, etc will run through "the little engine that could".<br />
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If you are ranking your kitchen "wish list", a Cuisinart food processor is a very good investment. If mine dies, I will immediately replace it.<br />
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Update from the needles:<br />
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I have been very busy knitting. A pair of <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter09/PATTskew.php">Skew Socks</a> in <a href="http://supersockstore.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=214_278&products_id=2493">Cherry Tree Hill Supersock Select</a> (colorway: Silver Streak) have gone out the door to a good home. (At least it better be a good home. They know I will take the socks back.)<br />
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I have also knocked out two scarves in <a href="http://www.knittingfever.com/c/yarn/kfi-flounce/">Flounce</a>. True confession: I don't like the stuff. I'm not a "give me a ruffly scarf and I'll be happy" kind of chick. One is for a friend (she loves it) and the other has gone into the scarf present stash.<br />
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I bought the Flounce when I stopped at <a href="http://www.knittedtogether.com/store/pc/home.asp">Knitted Together</a>. As always, they were an absolutely wonderful local yarn store I stumbled upon during work travel. They also helped me out of a work-related shipping pinch to boot. When everything seemed to be unraveling as I was heading to the airport (unraveling in the shipping department, that is), I just knew the local yarn store would be able to help me out! Thanks folks! It is wonderful to be a part of the eclectic, kind, helpful, accepting fiber arts community!<br />
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Side note: a certain UPS store in that area will soon be on the receiving end of one VERY nasty letter.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-48814030034287113352011-05-30T12:36:00.000-04:002011-05-30T12:36:42.218-04:00Easy comfort - with a twistWe love soft pretzels. Years ago, I was surprised to learn exactly how easy they are to make. A fabulous recipe for Hot Buttered Pretzels can be found in <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-flour-bakers-companion-cookbook">King Arthur Flour Baker's Companion</a>. (Fabulous, all-around baking cookbook.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EQV7KI7yF3EZbE25xMLtmtTox0bbvGIb6wei4mS18BMHv6ROiHWbs_OU4AYdy6hJXIT0ohqs7vDejRj-be_mz28rK8O6o3UJXmqlMjtOg35mn2tOFUHYY5SqYZF1PZKnmQb7ROxNnpg/s1600/photo%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EQV7KI7yF3EZbE25xMLtmtTox0bbvGIb6wei4mS18BMHv6ROiHWbs_OU4AYdy6hJXIT0ohqs7vDejRj-be_mz28rK8O6o3UJXmqlMjtOg35mn2tOFUHYY5SqYZF1PZKnmQb7ROxNnpg/s320/photo%252816%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The ingredients are simple: all purpose flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and water. Ingredients are all placed in the bowl of a stand mixer.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaqYC-Q7Wl4-PeNiRwyQTnYhGrSGb3a_RCvIP-MfRPmoBIjb1xB5eOwdVo_b6l7K5YWSrH8v8NHjsTh32O6cbj3SGeiOFG-Z61-yPVqp17vf1cMynS9leHuuAMpS-UghBU9FR5qYk-Ls/s1600/photo%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaqYC-Q7Wl4-PeNiRwyQTnYhGrSGb3a_RCvIP-MfRPmoBIjb1xB5eOwdVo_b6l7K5YWSrH8v8NHjsTh32O6cbj3SGeiOFG-Z61-yPVqp17vf1cMynS9leHuuAMpS-UghBU9FR5qYk-Ls/s320/photo%252814%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Mix thoroughly, then let the machine knead the dough for five minutes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0jW6w8xmDmT_JJWAbHb6EaOrCKYbz0vEK8M0ChVqA4CESnaaaXH6CGTyCfbeACSJFPMO0gVSh7P3S6w9t06Gypl4E3yubBmPPSe68ajpZ70pwJTbLQp5-ftENN5Y3vT_eMYzlinx-og/s1600/photo%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0jW6w8xmDmT_JJWAbHb6EaOrCKYbz0vEK8M0ChVqA4CESnaaaXH6CGTyCfbeACSJFPMO0gVSh7P3S6w9t06Gypl4E3yubBmPPSe68ajpZ70pwJTbLQp5-ftENN5Y3vT_eMYzlinx-og/s320/photo%252813%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Place the dough in a ziplock bag spritzed with baking spray.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgilJB8iyARdybNdGbALdZx0lzRjtuPDH_c3Ek3Wing1sDubkVMQ-4fkFRRIi1-208dQe6r4Leh5XKQOUDLtt6bm4b3YywIwjzkBIAfQGYNU4FdvBwZZ5fwZiaSTFrTFdNl2qu1Dcn6M/s1600/photo%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgilJB8iyARdybNdGbALdZx0lzRjtuPDH_c3Ek3Wing1sDubkVMQ-4fkFRRIi1-208dQe6r4Leh5XKQOUDLtt6bm4b3YywIwjzkBIAfQGYNU4FdvBwZZ5fwZiaSTFrTFdNl2qu1Dcn6M/s320/photo%252812%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Allow to rise 30 minutes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfSbr1L1MrJLjbaHFS7rwywo_VlZW9A_ZvUe7RU_MgiqfCA6sI0q0hiy-U35wLqx9RVA1djCDQ0iiuyERloYcfsu82wbUotbYEGFLmUzH552s-Sul2gR2AaC1u7EML1Bq2p9kgfZwf9M/s1600/photo%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfSbr1L1MrJLjbaHFS7rwywo_VlZW9A_ZvUe7RU_MgiqfCA6sI0q0hiy-U35wLqx9RVA1djCDQ0iiuyERloYcfsu82wbUotbYEGFLmUzH552s-Sul2gR2AaC1u7EML1Bq2p9kgfZwf9M/s320/photo%252811%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Cut the dough into 8 pieces. Allow the dough to rest.<br />
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<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/AVvXsEgoM7-qekKhmhmRzm-4RPg1NGt1YRzetL046Tz9Eelp4NS-Pb8NgjhfkwZg1zrqK1L8_mt22sjJ7PnQJAroJZEfX6BsxHxRmpj2P5nGdHu09ZoCJmfW0kREb-W7pC0XYqjZpvrwjWil5_I/s1600/photo%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoM7-qekKhmhmRzm-4RPg1NGt1YRzetL046Tz9Eelp4NS-Pb8NgjhfkwZg1zrqK1L8_mt22sjJ7PnQJAroJZEfX6BsxHxRmpj2P5nGdHu09ZoCJmfW0kREb-W7pC0XYqjZpvrwjWil5_I/s320/photo%252810%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Time to make snakes! Roll each piece into a long rope and form the pretzel shape. Dip each pretzel into the sugar water solution, place on the prepared baking sheet, and sprinkle with <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/pretzel-salt">pretzel salt</a>. Allow to rest.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpe9hQW3wXt2BVBiLMZBEHE0q5ctY9C8UKmCwBcAGmCUOmAQP1wO8B6M5Ye7k77IwXmAQktaklCWtCnNomD0jdHiPBfnrivBV8SiwEdLga-CDo6PNMhCL2ybypkUD0bHWZy10Ce5ffU_8/s1600/photo%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpe9hQW3wXt2BVBiLMZBEHE0q5ctY9C8UKmCwBcAGmCUOmAQP1wO8B6M5Ye7k77IwXmAQktaklCWtCnNomD0jdHiPBfnrivBV8SiwEdLga-CDo6PNMhCL2ybypkUD0bHWZy10Ce5ffU_8/s320/photo%25286%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Bake at 500F according to instructions. Brush baked pretzels with melted butter.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_2wjDq3TrWBwUBc2ogkvLjCkY4E6xYy-d6RECel615WwRcIY9J7bpyNEFIkWhDV09-Nv7VLcifQsKIsvPVFCgd4vcbpgWitjen3RFGTAZXC2X1b9eZfMvZ1jp6nSmiLjUiNKo52cNgQs/s1600/photo%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_2wjDq3TrWBwUBc2ogkvLjCkY4E6xYy-d6RECel615WwRcIY9J7bpyNEFIkWhDV09-Nv7VLcifQsKIsvPVFCgd4vcbpgWitjen3RFGTAZXC2X1b9eZfMvZ1jp6nSmiLjUiNKo52cNgQs/s320/photo%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>In less than one hour, you are enjoying fresh baked pretzels!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-66375030806464273172011-05-28T22:07:00.000-04:002011-05-28T22:07:57.513-04:00Summertime....and the living's easy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlYsK8X0SVh5Nx9lq9zkDYSRttG5Wl5SkJOoelvbWVmMVGNqyc7QD5vy7mIoys8fdGal8kAWxnLK64_qepEv12RoC92G69KelN1iZFMq3WUkGFf49EdOyRr1NXByucOo2Kkb-oszHU5c/s1600/photo%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlYsK8X0SVh5Nx9lq9zkDYSRttG5Wl5SkJOoelvbWVmMVGNqyc7QD5vy7mIoys8fdGal8kAWxnLK64_qepEv12RoC92G69KelN1iZFMq3WUkGFf49EdOyRr1NXByucOo2Kkb-oszHU5c/s320/photo%252819%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We had plans to visit family over the holiday weekend. My coming down with a nasty sinus infection foiled all those plans. I ended up running a few errands this morning and laying low the rest of the day. I really hope to be back in my groove tomorrow. The offspring is in the mist of a massive Lego build. (Hopefully we can reclaim our den tomorrow also.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVI4Y6ae2P_hWc1klvncQhEYWvDMc8XE_0XH5eO5sfUSA0MWxaPC5ewvcKlSPpm7cQvRdjTdwGbtxSiWxoLXp0BPYOwGNTDE2XofZISuWqDGG1nFtwZhzmEinEDaP1b1xcem7qwFpQUHY/s1600/photo%252818%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVI4Y6ae2P_hWc1klvncQhEYWvDMc8XE_0XH5eO5sfUSA0MWxaPC5ewvcKlSPpm7cQvRdjTdwGbtxSiWxoLXp0BPYOwGNTDE2XofZISuWqDGG1nFtwZhzmEinEDaP1b1xcem7qwFpQUHY/s320/photo%252818%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Just because I am feeling a bit under the weather doesn't mean we can't eat well. It is summer (perhaps not officially on the calendar, but Mother Nature is telling us otherwise), that means cooking is fresh and easy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganqss1QXJ_Kfo1NyVBUiBruITPmToOXxUaElTova-61ZLeBM4NMWPmW0JiJ4vZiNFwBfAXGpM8IQx-YgY23ozbqHcteZ_AqdlsmSVIUm1AF9RnRh8pTvUcz7Gji0uUUuSFgSUwAz61GE/s1600/photo%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganqss1QXJ_Kfo1NyVBUiBruITPmToOXxUaElTova-61ZLeBM4NMWPmW0JiJ4vZiNFwBfAXGpM8IQx-YgY23ozbqHcteZ_AqdlsmSVIUm1AF9RnRh8pTvUcz7Gji0uUUuSFgSUwAz61GE/s320/photo%252815%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I thawed a few boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. While they were thawing, I mixed up a quick marinade with fresh thyme, onion, white wine, garlic, salt, pepper, dried hot mustard, sugar, and vegetable oil. The tenders marinaded in the frig for a few hours.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsexrbvdD0PSI3rWF5e4-odvknegyWIPiA-ns1TfE_aOaLIWOXe6PYnUpRuJ0eTbcQoZTeAF6mL-0gXPTrucVCInl-KJtLt-X5K2frHJpyovlS_n-gPPdu0i_WevmG847XfxTV0EvV9UE/s1600/photo%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsexrbvdD0PSI3rWF5e4-odvknegyWIPiA-ns1TfE_aOaLIWOXe6PYnUpRuJ0eTbcQoZTeAF6mL-0gXPTrucVCInl-KJtLt-X5K2frHJpyovlS_n-gPPdu0i_WevmG847XfxTV0EvV9UE/s320/photo%25287%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Vine ripe tomatoes were on sale today and the basil needed a haircut, so capress was added to the night's menu. It is always a big hit at our house. Tomato, basil, fresh mozzarella, fresh ground pepper, and balsamic vinegar is such a tasty, fresh combination.<br />
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Large white shrimp were also on sale, so I peeled the shrimp and seasoned them with <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeyscajunspicy.html?id=JWopoUrF">cajun seasoning</a> and a tad of vegetable oil. I also sliced a fresh lemon in half.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrtUjeTsEv6574IqsOXIG0vqWj9njZpDN6qKPocMYHSqHo6gvV1qJTsQDgJ3W_wj9rg-9c03vcWG2yTq_MUtMfFeT2hbg4eK9EPKGuOiFNumrvxFfXOmWGSDpgniQMaXV1OtqZLGhUvBc/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrtUjeTsEv6574IqsOXIG0vqWj9njZpDN6qKPocMYHSqHo6gvV1qJTsQDgJ3W_wj9rg-9c03vcWG2yTq_MUtMfFeT2hbg4eK9EPKGuOiFNumrvxFfXOmWGSDpgniQMaXV1OtqZLGhUvBc/s320/photo%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>When it was time to cook, the grill was lit. We used lump charcoal after a friend presented such a convincing argument for us to give it a try. Honestly, where we both grew up, everyone used charcoal briquets. We enjoyed the outcomes and are switching to lump charcoal.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPnKh-xVeSJ9pJY6RqUSKmLJgEbc-4GwXxgtXOOJvdWFC7JllIofKOhDAzXQiIpZzEAUpmlWcWI73zoHLd6MtF9ROolTIzre4bbeFZKzgzCGoqC3Cy0b9A7ily3Cl95f2NfXAKfaQ4wpc/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPnKh-xVeSJ9pJY6RqUSKmLJgEbc-4GwXxgtXOOJvdWFC7JllIofKOhDAzXQiIpZzEAUpmlWcWI73zoHLd6MtF9ROolTIzre4bbeFZKzgzCGoqC3Cy0b9A7ily3Cl95f2NfXAKfaQ4wpc/s320/photo%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I placed one of my cast iron skillets on the back of the grill while the chicken and corn were cooking. Just before everything was done, I pour a dab of vegetable oil in the hot skillet and used a silicon brush to coat the entire inside of the skillet. The grill lid was closed to allow the oil to heat. After a few minutes, I dumped the seasoned shrimp in the skillet and juiced the lemon into the skillet. I stirred the shrimp, then closed the grill lid. After stirring the shrimp a few times, they were done.<br />
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<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/AVvXsEjylsINzez1ZQhef8dBrZkERxTATLDPSar-ceowIIBD5uDH3X7xdew6FNvxZGLJNiF12Yb3sCEBY4_CnY0m5DpiyCAneniz4edIGwgpsvmhBh2uqFyMp7piBOOhjlGzLoxaTXgh3aUwmA0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylsINzez1ZQhef8dBrZkERxTATLDPSar-ceowIIBD5uDH3X7xdew6FNvxZGLJNiF12Yb3sCEBY4_CnY0m5DpiyCAneniz4edIGwgpsvmhBh2uqFyMp7piBOOhjlGzLoxaTXgh3aUwmA0/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Dinner was great.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I hope you are enjoying quick, fresh summer meals also!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-30190133936240263612011-05-20T14:47:00.000-04:002011-05-20T14:47:13.086-04:00How does your garden grow?Spring is here! That means it is time to plant the garden!<br />
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This year, a dear friend asked to join us, so we are expanding our usual family garden. Nothing major, but we have a nice crop of fresh tomatoes, hot peppers, herbs, okra, peas, squash, and whatever else was sewn.<br />
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My husband plans and executes the garden. He has a wonderful, yet elaborate, plan which involves tilling compost, laying drip irrigation, installing landscape fabric, and "rabbit proofing" the peas. (I love my <a href="http://www.gardengourmet.com/">composter</a>. It was my Christmas present several years ago.)<br />
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I grew up gardening. My family grew and stored vegetables and fruit each summer to use for the entire year. We didn't waste anything. If you have never canned or frozen your own food, contact your local cooperative extension department and they will be more than happy to help you get rolling. It isn't hard. I was a certified Master Food Preserver by the time I was 13 years old. You can find some great resources <a href="http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications_usda.html">here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perennial herbs</td></tr>
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I love returning to this process (albeit on a much smaller scale) and introducing the offspring to it. Food does not "come from the grocery store" and all children should have the opportunity to learn how food is grown and prepared.<br />
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One of my other favorite things about gardening is cooking with fresh herbs. I plant seasonal herbs in the garden. We go through tons of fresh basil. I also prepare pesto base all summer and freeze it in ice cube trays for use throughout the fall and winter. Last spring, I started several pots of perennial herbs. The results have been bountiful. The investment:production ratio has been great! I moved the allspice tree and bay bush inside for the winter with fabulous results.<br />
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The thymes and oreganos came back like game busters, so I gave them huge haircuts and dried the results. I have almost 1 1/2 cups of dried oregano from this picture. I also dried approximately 1 cup of thyme. (If you live in the area, let me know if you need any fresh or dried oregano and thyme.) The drying process was incredibly easy. I spread the cut limbs on cooling racks (keeping varietals separate). It took approximately a week, living on top of the dryer in the laundry room.<br />
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As for composting, it just makes sense. Period. Why waste the fabulous fruit, vegetable, and grain scraps from the kitchen when you can recycle them into your garden? After a couple of cycles, I have determined that grass clipping from the yard, kitchen scraps, and once a week watering and turning produce GREAT compost. Over the winter, I throw a container of fishing worms in for additional breakdown during the cold months. A key point for this particular composter is to place it in the sun so it can absorb heat. I use <a href="http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3089628&cp=2568443.2568444.2598674.2601431.2602642">a spading fork</a> to turn my compost. Give composting a whirl at your house. You don't have to buy a big, fancy composter to get results.<br />
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Happy gardening! I'll keep you updated as the summer progresses. (Now, if only I could convince my husband we need an asparagus bed.....)Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-78659082180599046902011-04-21T19:59:00.000-04:002011-04-21T19:59:47.718-04:00Knock, knock, gnocchi<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmLbT_Xb343GzQR9dLIf8pipsOu_iwmc4piJS-X20YrkfconJGcJb-EWC06pvjgUCdAv-Euf3pzpWHOI_Y3wT2EdR285d20yRNRrPk_swkgVQDP_1Fkm7hCJPNqF1LLt4AbUR3sCvDmM/s1600/photo%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmLbT_Xb343GzQR9dLIf8pipsOu_iwmc4piJS-X20YrkfconJGcJb-EWC06pvjgUCdAv-Euf3pzpWHOI_Y3wT2EdR285d20yRNRrPk_swkgVQDP_1Fkm7hCJPNqF1LLt4AbUR3sCvDmM/s320/photo%25286%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a>Gnocchi is a big hit in our house. We all love it. There was a gnocchi request for dinner this week. Considering I had some potatoes which needed a purpose, seemed like a sensible solution.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PA4IsUw-51f5mgEFypbXJouK9GWYvjEP7X_vpuBf90vmAPTgXx9MYlwZ9Qk2gts4dzn9obPee48NacFGDbcOCqO6RR_l4AhnkZFpZ9ryaudTb5qXXDzkAF67NqeXl9zr6Icy7Gy4HA4/s1600/photo%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PA4IsUw-51f5mgEFypbXJouK9GWYvjEP7X_vpuBf90vmAPTgXx9MYlwZ9Qk2gts4dzn9obPee48NacFGDbcOCqO6RR_l4AhnkZFpZ9ryaudTb5qXXDzkAF67NqeXl9zr6Icy7Gy4HA4/s320/photo%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a>When I first ate gnocchi I decided it must be complicated to make. It isn't. I didn't understand exactly how easy it was until I purchased <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Spoon-Phaidon-Press/dp/0714845310/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1303427222&sr=1-1">The Silver Spoon Cookbook</a>. (This cookbook is fabulous, by the way. True Italian cooking. Most recipes are short with a few ingredients and they all taste wonderful.)<br />
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I peel a few potatoes (weighed out how many I needed). Cube and place them in the <a href="http://cookingwithyarn.blogspot.com/2011/03/oh-pressure.html">steamer</a> to cook.<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"></div>When the potatoes are done, rice them into a bowl and add the appropriate amounts of flour, egg and salt. (I prefer ricing the potatoes to achieve a smooth even texture. Ricing also creates less starch interactions in the potato than mashing.)<br />
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Flour a kitchen towel. Form the gnocchi and roll in flour. They are now ready to cook! That simple.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4xqvUHhEP_XsOv3uSQYkZNSjBpNjqlEP1mZw22AEPY2X-mz1f7RZWw3gIlcpIabx35nwUZpC948bsTK5ktb2_J6T9BQ_VSvEzTeZtzHkAgQPi4EWMVmbrNSlmg_SUr4A5dRT1EQTaLE/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4xqvUHhEP_XsOv3uSQYkZNSjBpNjqlEP1mZw22AEPY2X-mz1f7RZWw3gIlcpIabx35nwUZpC948bsTK5ktb2_J6T9BQ_VSvEzTeZtzHkAgQPi4EWMVmbrNSlmg_SUr4A5dRT1EQTaLE/s320/photo%25283%2529.JPG" width="238" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLvfmGFDvh3FASaHnUzHuoVdgCRU1OTyk9x3BcCGBzfoSc6dnG6LrM7VsuYkQHuPVFc_U8u-xrn6zyEY5m_nqUZRbpUYPw8tp_yHIN2Tb_3qGAPuNzOPC1VgmMBEVriU1wFpHtvpeO0c/s1600/photo%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLvfmGFDvh3FASaHnUzHuoVdgCRU1OTyk9x3BcCGBzfoSc6dnG6LrM7VsuYkQHuPVFc_U8u-xrn6zyEY5m_nqUZRbpUYPw8tp_yHIN2Tb_3qGAPuNzOPC1VgmMBEVriU1wFpHtvpeO0c/s320/photo%25287%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Kale was on sale at the grocery store this week. Since I came home with a big bag (we had sauteed kale with beef roast Sunday night), I immediately thought of the wonderful gnocchi with beans and greens at <a href="http://www.piccolositaliansteakhouse.com/">Piccolo's</a>. (I love living in an area that supports local food establishments. We have tons of great, local options around here.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOaPN0sf96inB0-pY8Y2kLlkURWojxyceaS520q3Mijcpmz2sV_kwwolMTjfGJ1RULKrlTMl-eTh4KgShbb1ksrxL-8Ie67KvR5kJK6FIcSR-pHCyXBcf9i_zFc_Rz3nl_UcK_oM1sl7Y/s1600/photo%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOaPN0sf96inB0-pY8Y2kLlkURWojxyceaS520q3Mijcpmz2sV_kwwolMTjfGJ1RULKrlTMl-eTh4KgShbb1ksrxL-8Ie67KvR5kJK6FIcSR-pHCyXBcf9i_zFc_Rz3nl_UcK_oM1sl7Y/s320/photo%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a>First, I soaked some dried white beans overnight in the refrigerator. When I got home that evening, I simmered the beans on the stove about an hour and half. Then drained the beans (retaining the cooking liquid), placed them in a container and stored them, and the juice in a separate container, in the refrigerator for the next day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTwlHnVljzTaNmk2Non0iyviYHki0mWL-itOkk9_euiXmh3UwJbrvhQLijBGZv9ZsNLm1idGTP3h1HOvIJcddzI5RdeNV7ia4P9exp45Gaw1ue8uVQKgPVOn24_s9Esx7ulkEyCyywT0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTwlHnVljzTaNmk2Non0iyviYHki0mWL-itOkk9_euiXmh3UwJbrvhQLijBGZv9ZsNLm1idGTP3h1HOvIJcddzI5RdeNV7ia4P9exp45Gaw1ue8uVQKgPVOn24_s9Esx7ulkEyCyywT0/s320/photo.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><br />
I thawed some of my homemade smoked turkey stock (about 4 cups) and added the cooking liquid from the beans. I brought this to boil, also adding salt to taste and chopped garlic. I cooked the gnocchi in the boiling broth, then added the chopped kale. Finally, I added the cooked beans to heat thoroughly.<br />
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YUM! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPB6BA11jJ08B1VG0QO2pxPtu25RM6yRRyDhJFDpIK40-hbAPkKr5OqIPoy0HssdYjTZk7LzHqjPC0asRvCM1xihA87xkV-18-Hb68x5JQJuFZHrhueVxytDpluGoGzkFlJyNs_W-JlE/s1600/photo%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPB6BA11jJ08B1VG0QO2pxPtu25RM6yRRyDhJFDpIK40-hbAPkKr5OqIPoy0HssdYjTZk7LzHqjPC0asRvCM1xihA87xkV-18-Hb68x5JQJuFZHrhueVxytDpluGoGzkFlJyNs_W-JlE/s320/photo%25288%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a>News from the needles:<br />
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Look what arrived today. Happy mail day!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-64354429680484981922011-04-19T20:38:00.000-04:002011-04-19T20:38:33.998-04:00Java jive!Anyone who has been to our house knows my husband and I enjoy coffee.<br />
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We REALLY enjoy coffee.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nz-BKaajx-e4lMWZyXH2pDrdLfbmPXqkRbHnQc4J2z8obQGxnQCBEaI6sAUMiY2Vvae7x723W_2IALElOLc1bKAhgYJzLhuWsZxX0vgF9QJnvPpFwYKnHToZyjrz9gb7DnPDcJYmSNA/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nz-BKaajx-e4lMWZyXH2pDrdLfbmPXqkRbHnQc4J2z8obQGxnQCBEaI6sAUMiY2Vvae7x723W_2IALElOLc1bKAhgYJzLhuWsZxX0vgF9QJnvPpFwYKnHToZyjrz9gb7DnPDcJYmSNA/s320/photo%25281%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhibit A.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>In the grand scheme of life, we splurged. Was it worth it? TOTALLY. Considering I drink a four shot decaf (my contributions to world peace - I'm decaffeinated) cappuccino every morning + any that come up during the day, our splurge was worth it. Every now and then, you need to treat yourself to something that makes your life easier and heck, it makes you happy. Our <a href="http://www.jlhufford.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=6278pb">Jura-Capresso Impressa F9</a> has totally been worth it. I purchased a pre-brew from <a href="http://www.jlhufford.com/">JL Hufford</a>. The great thing about sinking stupid money into an item, if you don't care for it, the manufacturer takes it back. So, someone had buyer's remorse when our machine arrived at their home and sent it back. Then we got a great deal on something we use every day. Win. Win.<br />
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I love supporting local businesses. While we have a fabulous <a href="http://www.jitteryjoes.com/">local coffee roaster</a>, their roasts were a little too oily for the internal burr grinder of the F9. I found <a href="http://www.specialtyjava.com/">Specialty Java</a>. We love their espresso roasts. If you don't live in our area (and have access to Jittery Joes) consider giving them a try for your coffee needs. You can also order specialty labeled coffee to give as gifts. (What coffee-loving teacher/care provider/family member/mail person/bus driver wouldn't love fresh roasted coffee vs candy in a coffee mug as a thank you gift?)<br />
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It is tax refund season. Perhaps you earned a superautomated espresso machine this year....<br />
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News from the needles:<br />
It appears I have finally won the battle of the resized sock pattern. It took four knits (three rips) to get it all to work. Second sock is swimming along. I won.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kyarns.com/">Kaleidoscope Yarns</a> had a 25% off all yarn purchases this weekend. Yarn for six pairs on the way. (At least it is a functional obsession.)Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-76938787434462525512011-04-12T20:45:00.000-04:002011-04-12T20:45:42.338-04:00A Rainbow is a PromiseThe sign-up sheet appeared two weeks ago when I was dropping the offspring off for choir practice: Needed - cookies for end of the year children's choir party. I signed my name on the dotted line. How could I not?<br />
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1) I love my kid and totally support his activities. (Ask me about Spring Fling sign-up at school. I might be a workaholic and never make a single PTA meeting (which are during the offspring's Tae Kwon Do class), but I will be there for every.school.activity as a volunteer.)<br />
2) I love the children's choirs director at our church. Love.Her.<br />
3) It involves food.<br />
4) It is church.<br />
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No brainer.<br />
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Then the dilemma of "what to make?". I have a tendency to make non-traditional foods (i.e. my offspring thinks they are great, but apparently other kiddos don't generally have ground oats/white chocolate chunk/cranberry cookies when their parent has a whim to bake cookies). I guess they don't have food product development sessions where everyone in the family comes up with a list of target ingredients and Mom makes a baked good from them. Typical life in our house.<br />
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[I have been chastised by my closest friends that I set my offspring's future partner up for failure.]<br />
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For some reason, rice krispie treats are the bomb for people of any age. It kills me. They are so simple to make. [Full disclosure: one of the only food items I actually prepare using a microwave.] Yet, for some reason adults rarely make them. The commercial series from years ago of the mom throwing flour on her face before carrying out the platter of rice krispie treats is SO FREAKING TRUE! People love them but never make them. It isn't like they are expensive, difficult, or time consuming. [shrug]<br />
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Problem solved: rice krispie treats for my cookie contribution!<br />
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This year's children's choir theme has been: A Rainbow is a Promise. I love a good theme challenge. [You should have seen last year's 100+ iced lighthouse sugar cookies] As much as it pains me to admit it. I caved.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLvLjfdjGwESBEGim2NaVsXzQLq5idS22hOCXWq-fXdxwkcmdheqNGATYmWW7pP_juuVwTf09_5CWdTZtKpe3Atf1KLvXDgI8P3cWK39mQCWM1qcqzvgBxS0FNXh-Odbr9hCkz-wQtvE/s1600/photo%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLvLjfdjGwESBEGim2NaVsXzQLq5idS22hOCXWq-fXdxwkcmdheqNGATYmWW7pP_juuVwTf09_5CWdTZtKpe3Atf1KLvXDgI8P3cWK39mQCWM1qcqzvgBxS0FNXh-Odbr9hCkz-wQtvE/s320/photo%25284%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>For the purist (such as myself), plain ol' rice krispie treats. The adult choir will kill a pan of these in minutes. Add a few college students, the lifespan drops to seconds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrp6_R5FGJ4OjvazmPQv0IWIVJuWZJ1ORL20_JYlCYbIPqsyNS4-Uc72Xmswrs8DiJBqxjkpGfqa2mn_tVOchkQuKxX6WKlYC8efAuEM4ddGOYSoaIZ_E9JFmBMkjvfdsZvnHryd-CjSc/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrp6_R5FGJ4OjvazmPQv0IWIVJuWZJ1ORL20_JYlCYbIPqsyNS4-Uc72Xmswrs8DiJBqxjkpGfqa2mn_tVOchkQuKxX6WKlYC8efAuEM4ddGOYSoaIZ_E9JFmBMkjvfdsZvnHryd-CjSc/s320/photo%25283%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a>For the adventurous, half and half. (rice krispies and fruity pebbles).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFq6v_6exckSnqaf0ND-T0oMBf0a7j08wUuOEv-H4OavsJO_xOpqT8yn2i44aoQGvmBmZuexJ0GU8hUBBb-4L01DZ4_CQibs7jwYiqgj0YrLsQziltPdZG-PAdb9Fcg_rezE_aUzn763Q/s1600/photo%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFq6v_6exckSnqaf0ND-T0oMBf0a7j08wUuOEv-H4OavsJO_xOpqT8yn2i44aoQGvmBmZuexJ0GU8hUBBb-4L01DZ4_CQibs7jwYiqgj0YrLsQziltPdZG-PAdb9Fcg_rezE_aUzn763Q/s320/photo%25282%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a>For the totally engrossed (I blame my mother-in-law for making these 30+ years ago. My husband claims these are the best cereal treats EVER), full on fruity pebbles.<br />
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As much as this whole process kills me (anything with that much food colorant and artificial flavoring can't be that tasty), you have to admit that blending the cut krispie treats on a platter will make quite the rainbow effect.<br />
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A rainbow is a promise.Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-74112693093544844132011-04-04T20:54:00.002-04:002011-04-12T20:46:59.530-04:00Spice, spice baby!I have a love affair with <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/">Penzeys Spices</a>. A true, deep, burning love (of the culinary kind). If you live in an area with a local store - YOU ARE SO LUCKY. I order mine (or visit any local stores when on travel).<br />
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What's not to love? You can buy your spices and spice blends in jars or bulk bags. You can see exactly what is blended into them. Most contain no MSG (which I have developed an allergy to as years move on). The quality is absolutely awesome. The staff (if you call or visit a store - I have been to many) is very pleasant and knowledgeable. The pricing is much more affordable than the little jars of crap in the grocery store. All around, it is a wonderful experience.<br />
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What are our family's favorites? (in no particular order)<br />
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<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysfours.html">4/S seasoning salt</a> - great all-purpose seasoning. I keep all varieties on hand and frequently give as gifts.<br />
<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeyscajunspicy.html">Cajun seasoning</a> - I use this for lots of foods. It is great for blackening fish and meats. It is wonderful on pastas and vegetables. I always use it in crab cakes. One of my "go to" blends.<br />
<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeyschipotle.html">Chipolte pepper</a> - The smokey notes and moderate heat is a wonderful addition to a variety of foods. We especially enjoy it in macaroni and cheese.<br />
<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysmuralofflavor.html">Mural of flavor</a> - I received this one as a free sample and we loved it. It is great on vegetables and in pasta moistened with a bit of olive oil. Fabulous on fish also.<br />
<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysnorthwoods.html">Northwinds seasoning</a> and <a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysnorthwoodsfire.html">Northwinds fire seasoning</a> - Love to use this on briskets before smoking and grilling.<br />
<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeystacoseas.html">Taco seasoning</a> - I always keep these on hand. Super fast and easy to make as little or as much base for tacos/enchiladas/nachos/etc. It is great for those fast dinner evenings after practice/meetings.<br />
<a href="http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysparisienherb.html">Parisian bonne herbes</a> - this is wonderful in light, fresh dishes and fish.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzE5CijvrQrPfDgbLXNCpKO_oLVPxbivSp7iKQ2veW9noDXUOuJt4Emu2HhwTsUXctwJqHMvKMXYF5HK6d_Aza28obLm1PAy2_PAOcmUf_g09CuE02beJV4LhDmF2Im7DmGY3JzG9vVU/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzE5CijvrQrPfDgbLXNCpKO_oLVPxbivSp7iKQ2veW9noDXUOuJt4Emu2HhwTsUXctwJqHMvKMXYF5HK6d_Aza28obLm1PAy2_PAOcmUf_g09CuE02beJV4LhDmF2Im7DmGY3JzG9vVU/s320/photo-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There are many more! Explore for yourself. Since I buy spices in bulk, I needed to store them. I ordered a spice storage set from <a href="http://www.custommagneticspicerack.com/">Custom Magnetic Spice Rack</a>. I used <a href="http://www.rustoleum.com/cbgproduct.asp?pid=127">magnetic primer</a> according to directions and topped with latex wall paint.<br />
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Recently off the needles:<br />
During the recent work travel, I knocked out a <a href="http://www.spinningdaily.com/media/p/5531.aspx">helix scarf</a>. I love it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Jh7aQCR8KB3t6bef1MxBMQVTbul0n3u_yJOkxnLYlRC3O-xNT-0OOnM_xcengK4mozBp7KZpCkE110LlshDR2k6ExfXAVxsFL0JVaDr3VwkzM-ufmbQEmJxTUu8AD3cSOxHxDs7AVBA/s1600/photo-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Jh7aQCR8KB3t6bef1MxBMQVTbul0n3u_yJOkxnLYlRC3O-xNT-0OOnM_xcengK4mozBp7KZpCkE110LlshDR2k6ExfXAVxsFL0JVaDr3VwkzM-ufmbQEmJxTUu8AD3cSOxHxDs7AVBA/s320/photo-1.JPG" width="240" /></a>US 1 needles. My handspun yarn (Forest Has a Long Memory, BFL/silk, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpinningAwesomeGood">Spinning Awesome Good</a>).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9I288GgPy4-a6M4ct0EHdgrvs7jc6Druidcs-0qR1iNj9Tffgx6LquvfIgVq28el3C1FCwDZYHBpOkeSFFPTPPnbTHi0TjdnThs4n4_Yb7PvLXlkNifEDxGELJZVhcdVpb0c28v-VFzA/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9I288GgPy4-a6M4ct0EHdgrvs7jc6Druidcs-0qR1iNj9Tffgx6LquvfIgVq28el3C1FCwDZYHBpOkeSFFPTPPnbTHi0TjdnThs4n4_Yb7PvLXlkNifEDxGELJZVhcdVpb0c28v-VFzA/s320/photo-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-51208579209749232402011-03-26T20:53:00.001-04:002011-03-26T20:54:09.640-04:00Cooking is loveSorry for the absence, but work travel has been in the way. We now (finally) have the whole family under one roof. It is so comforting to have us all back together after two weeks of us being scattered.<br />
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A by-product of two weeks of intermittent travel is concentrated cooking come the weekend. After we developed our menu plan for the week, the offspring and I headed out to Trader Joe's and Publix. Once home, the prep began.<br />
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The day ended with a dinner of <a href="http://allrecipes.co.uk/recipe/388/baked-scotch-eggs.aspx">baked Scotch eggs</a> and homemade mac and cheese with sundried tomatoes. I didn't follow the recipe linked above, but figured it was best to give some idea. I boiled six eggs and enrobed them in 1 lb of hot, bulk breakfast sausage. I dredged the wrapped eggs in flour, followed by beaten egg, and finished with bread crumbs. I allowed the prepped eggs to rest in the frig for about an hour before baking at 400F until the sausage was fully cooked. The hubby enjoyed them with some mustard.<br />
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I also spent time this afternoon prepping gelato from <a href="http://www.randomhouse.com/book/27764/the-ciao-bella-book-of-gelato-and-sorbetto-by-fw-pearce-and-danilo-zecchin/9780307464989/">The Ciao Bella Book of Gelato & Sorbetto</a>. We had two absolutely fabulous flavors for dessert: chocolate and nicciola (hazelnut). YUM! I also grabbed pears while shopping today for pear sorbet later in the week.<br />
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When we have been apart, all I want to do is feed my family. This week's menus are looking like they are full of love.<br />
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(I have several finished knitting projects and some new yarn and fiber but haven't had a chance to conduct a photo shoot. More to come on that later.)Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-87277335056641199752011-03-10T19:54:00.001-05:002011-04-12T20:47:48.969-04:00Reduce, Reuse, RepurposeThe motto of the kitchen. There are so many things we can do in the kitchen to make our lives healthier, happier and easier.<br />
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Reduce:<br />
In recent years, I have read several article or listened to news stories about American food waste. Reducing food waste in our homes is not only good for the wallet, it is also good for society in that food you aren't wasting can be purchased and used by someone else.<br />
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The primary waste in the food budget occurs in the produce department. Often, we have lofty ideals of how much fresh produce we will consume in a given week. (We have all fallen prey to not consuming the salad we purchased after telling ourselves we were going to eat salads for lunch most of the week.) The grocery store is smart too. If they place the grapes and cherries in convenience bags for shoppers, 99% of us will grab the whole bag and go never thinking about whether we will actually EAT all the grapes or cherries before they spoil. The reusable produce bags I showed in <a href="http://cookingwithyarn.blogspot.com/2011/03/saturday-shopping-generally.html">Saturday's post</a> are perfect for getting around this glitch. Only purchase the produce you WILL use in the week.<br />
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Another waste in the grocery store - spending more money than necessary because you don't have a PLAN. At our house, the menu plan for the week is posted on the side of refrigerator. Everyone has to contribute one meal idea and I fill in the rest. I make the grocery list from the plan. This process cuts down on waste and totally removed the middle of the day "what the heck are we going to have for dinner" feeling.<br />
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Reuse:<br />
The ultimate in reuse - leftovers. Honestly, there are few folks who enjoy having leftovers. How many times can an adult (kids don't count) eat spaghetti in a week and be happy about it? Luckily, we have a second refrigerator (family member was getting rid of a old refrigerator - best hand-me-down ever) and use the freezer compartment specifically for leftovers and coffee beans. I pack leftovers as a meal in reusable storage containers. Each container is clearly labeled with foods included and dated. If my husband or I need a lunch for work, we "shop" in the freezer. Need a quick dinner after schlepping the offspring to practice? Everyone "shops" in the freezer.<br />
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Repurpose:<br />
We are a household of three. I love to cook. More times than not, there is way more food than we need. My solution is to "repurpose" the food into new foods! Having baked chicken? It isn't any more trouble to bake a "family pack" of leg quarters than it is to cook two or three. After the meal, I debone the remaining chicken and double wrap portions in plastic wrap, label a gallon freezer bag, place the small packages of baked chicken in and freeze. The frozen chicken could become: soup, nachos, pizza, chicken pot pie, or pasta topping. If we want to have beef brisket, I purchase a whole fresh brisket at Sam's and smoke/grill on a Saturday afternoon. We end up with a wonderful dinner and tons of smoked beef brisket in the freezer.<br />
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Recently off the needles:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUoT6qLt0AnezIcsp6ikRS0T7g4x6KjOfpuFK2yUEDSPXo8iGs4gVx7PYX1Mmd8SdGo_DEAQ5V36Wg51bxtGeEKuwwhIuaOQtziVBv8qano3HYMFK7w8uWoFiE78rJNpaFR6lPpgav9p0/s1600/photo%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUoT6qLt0AnezIcsp6ikRS0T7g4x6KjOfpuFK2yUEDSPXo8iGs4gVx7PYX1Mmd8SdGo_DEAQ5V36Wg51bxtGeEKuwwhIuaOQtziVBv8qano3HYMFK7w8uWoFiE78rJNpaFR6lPpgav9p0/s320/photo%252814%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Plain ol' socks in <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-HeritagePaints.asp">Cascade Yarns Heritage Paints</a> (color #9903). Knit on US 1.5 needles.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SW04QhniTDP09RfqflYFxutdJ2xqhNcNn2EF6IQirOpTKyHKJafoajV04Q6YpeEwZ2SZa96HaRZpa7FWBY36mGrSQi-V3Pv64_1DhD7zykhjMyagEADUyFJVhkKr8GVAmmALdo5VnWw/s1600/photo%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SW04QhniTDP09RfqflYFxutdJ2xqhNcNn2EF6IQirOpTKyHKJafoajV04Q6YpeEwZ2SZa96HaRZpa7FWBY36mGrSQi-V3Pv64_1DhD7zykhjMyagEADUyFJVhkKr8GVAmmALdo5VnWw/s320/photo%252813%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Coffee cup sleeve. Knit in my handspun <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpinningAwesomeGood">Spinning Awesome Good</a> October fiber club installment (Ghosts and Gremlins). I had leftover bulky weight yarn after spinning/knitting a hat. I knitted the sleeve (my own design) then felted it. After it was dry, I needle felted some remaining yarn on the outside for decoration.<br />
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I won't wonder which coffee cup is mine when I am at my next meeting!Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8118103263889497566.post-52131134387996756782011-03-06T08:26:00.000-05:002011-03-06T08:26:36.265-05:00Cute little dumpling<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEud-4bFthCUsxCzTu7TUBzyEGajqUm0VPrbXRKLzluOvR3Qa47_AzQvfa6zdmWAZmQ83PiCDU4ieD__WR8E1-flel3fwFio33eiGJXlf7AHit-4YRLSLdbIRFf4MTez56sen7O_-orQ/s1600/photo%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEud-4bFthCUsxCzTu7TUBzyEGajqUm0VPrbXRKLzluOvR3Qa47_AzQvfa6zdmWAZmQ83PiCDU4ieD__WR8E1-flel3fwFio33eiGJXlf7AHit-4YRLSLdbIRFf4MTez56sen7O_-orQ/s320/photo%25288%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prepared syrup</td></tr>
</tbody></table> For years, Apple Dumplings have been my husband's favorite dessert. Not just any apple dumpling, the ones my mom makes. Apparently he has brainwashed the offspring also because when the question "What dessert would you like me to make this weekend?" was posed (while my husband was out of the house) the emphatic response was APPLE DUMPLINGS! The recipe comes from an earlier edition of the Better Homes and Garden cookbook. I searched their website and they do not include this recipe.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lF7qh21omWi1V2ERfBv-AWuETfLMam_q7BteWMhDT3Nd-lhCFSou8alrfWY2UxEiSV_8cd-JXUnQDAoNZ45Iqeb0Xo0OMZyjF_XPq6bJMAxBIZDt2suBk2qE3gyjXoSvAmZm4JSwAYs/s1600/photo%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lF7qh21omWi1V2ERfBv-AWuETfLMam_q7BteWMhDT3Nd-lhCFSou8alrfWY2UxEiSV_8cd-JXUnQDAoNZ45Iqeb0Xo0OMZyjF_XPq6bJMAxBIZDt2suBk2qE3gyjXoSvAmZm4JSwAYs/s320/photo%25289%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shortening cut into dry ingredients</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0baaZ-ZA1BpDHF6ou-vOaQnfTjJNWW0szocCjP0Uj3uBIzaGm-E9_UACPNB9DoKyJzyqquSM5tCjl9HlIbFdnTf513Zl_yZPRCmx5kf4VMtsE-hEKZY9mb1WdD7e6Ju3OESSnjzWFnI0/s1600/photo%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0baaZ-ZA1BpDHF6ou-vOaQnfTjJNWW0szocCjP0Uj3uBIzaGm-E9_UACPNB9DoKyJzyqquSM5tCjl9HlIbFdnTf513Zl_yZPRCmx5kf4VMtsE-hEKZY9mb1WdD7e6Ju3OESSnjzWFnI0/s320/photo%252810%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rolled and prepped</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Apple Dumplings<br />
1 1/2 c sugar<br />
1 1/2 c water<br />
1/4 teas cinnamon<br />
1/4 teas nutmeg (optional - I do not include)<br />
8 drops red food coloring (I omit)<br />
3 tbsp butter<br />
2 c all-purpose flour<br />
2 teas baking powder<br />
1 teas salt<br />
2/3 c vegetable shortening<br />
1/2 c milk<br />
6 small apples (tart varieties provide best flavor)<br />
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Combine sugar, water, and cinnamon (plus nutmeg and coloring, if using) in a medium pot. Bring to boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and add butter. Set aside.<br />
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Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Cut in shortening til mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk, stirring to moisten all dry ingredients. On a floured surface, roll dough into a rectangle (approximately 1/4 inch thick). Cut into 6 sections.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYk_rfHm3xu5i7ns4hNz4Zq14x0MH1gGCW17uNKbKOTDaRfxoYRTg1bOqnaI-f4FOo-JI1OIbOXsbixIQdJIIk3CwF8GxKZSQGEjdZ3ltJD7zlt5upXSJ2ZNBFMyzY7pL3HSWVH7Iezs/s1600/photo%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYk_rfHm3xu5i7ns4hNz4Zq14x0MH1gGCW17uNKbKOTDaRfxoYRTg1bOqnaI-f4FOo-JI1OIbOXsbixIQdJIIk3CwF8GxKZSQGEjdZ3ltJD7zlt5upXSJ2ZNBFMyzY7pL3HSWVH7Iezs/s320/photo%252811%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for oven</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Peel apples and slice into the center of each section. Sprinkle with extra sugar and cinnamon. Dot with extra butter. Pull dough up around the apple and gently squeeze to seal dough together. Place in a lightly greased 11 x 7 inch baking dish.<br />
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Stir syrup and pour over dumplings. (The baking dish will be quite full.) Sprinkle with sugar. (I prefer to use <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/white-coarse-bright-sugar-4-oz">white coarse sugar</a>.) Bake at 375F for 35-40 minutes. The dumplings should be evenly browned.<br />
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During baking, the dumpling dough absorbs the syrup. These are wonderful. Sometimes I will substitute up to half the flour with <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-white-whole-wheat-flour-5-lb">white wheat</a> (which can be found in major grocery stores).<br />
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NOTE:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIQygdGQNFLRWZEuPcR2LL3G69scVEIN-0pQCu60iRm-YS0HeMcpUTAud63VY1-uUeM73YgeUThDaCJcqf9s-W2UvjZPGoODEDKIS7EigQDjAXqyLe3JIRaj182GQ-m5FiiGadPG-lxY/s1600/photo%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIQygdGQNFLRWZEuPcR2LL3G69scVEIN-0pQCu60iRm-YS0HeMcpUTAud63VY1-uUeM73YgeUThDaCJcqf9s-W2UvjZPGoODEDKIS7EigQDjAXqyLe3JIRaj182GQ-m5FiiGadPG-lxY/s320/photo%252812%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished dumplings!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The dough is almost a cross between biscuit and pastry dough. The properties associated with the dough is what allows it to absorb the syrup during cooking. Therefore, you can not substitute prepared pie crust for the dough. The results will not be the same. Making the dough isn't that hard. Give it a try!<br />
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Can't you almost smell them through the computer?Cooking With Yarnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08044617261851209886noreply@blogger.com0