tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83548623988672164122024-03-18T21:23:20.045-07:00My Life with DIY: Cooking, Crafting, and Everything In-BetweenTales of do-it-yourself adventures from cooking allergy-friendly food, crafting, and using my fingers as pin-cushions...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.comBlogger95125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-24022110169820103762015-01-27T11:36:00.000-08:002015-01-27T11:36:00.560-08:00Zoodles and Bolognese Hello hungry internet peeps! I have another recipe for you today... Zoodles and Bolognese sauce. This is my absolute favorite sauce, and when I discovered my food allergies, I was heart-broken because I couldn't have pasta anymore. How do you eat bolognese sauce without pasta? But then I discovered the beauty of vegetable noodles (like today's zoodles!), spaghetti squash, and polenta (for those people who can do corn).<br />
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So this recipe I'm sharing with you today is Paleo and AIP-friendly. The origin of the recipe is Mario Batali's "Babbo" cookbook, but I have had to alter the original recipe to make it allergy-friendly for me. If you don't have a gluten issue, please feel free to use regular noodles. This sauce works great with tagliatelle or pappardelle noodles, penne, or even spaghetti. If you can't do tomato paste, you can use canned pumpkin, but it will change the flavor a bit.<br />
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Start with the freshest, healthiest options you can find. Except the Pancetta. Just do it. It's worth it. I make this in a 6 quart dutch oven. Any large stock pot will work, but make sure it's large. This recipe makes a ton. :) It freezes well, though, so don't let that be a deterrent.<br />
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So I start with onions, carrots, celery and garlic. I sweat it with some olive oil.<br />
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Then I add in the proteins and keep stirring until they are browned.<br />
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Then the rest of the ingredients... wine, tomato paste, coconut milk and spices. Then let it simmer for an hour and a half. The smell will drive you crazy! This sauce smells so good.<br />
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I used zucchini to make my noodles. I like to call them Zoodles. But you can do this with a spiralizer, or you can use a mandolin to make them more like flat tagliatelle noodles. I steamed the noodles before serving, too.<br />
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<h3>
Zoodles and Bolognese</h3>
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Ingredients:</h4>
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Olive Oil</div>
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2 yellow onions, finely chopped</div>
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5 celery stalks, finely chopped</div>
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2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped</div>
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6 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced</div>
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1 lb ground beef (or veal would work well if you have access to ground veal)</div>
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1 lb ground pork</div>
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4 oz Pancetta (or slab bacon, ground or finely chopped)</div>
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1 12 oz can tomato paste</div>
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1 cup Coconut Milk (I recommend using the So Delicious brand, not the canned versions for this recipe)</div>
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1 cup dry White Wine (if you don't do wine, you can sub chicken broth, but I recommend the wine...)</div>
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1 tsp Thyme</div>
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Salt and Pepper to taste</div>
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Zucchini for zoodles - each zucchini makes about 1 1/2 cups of zoodles</div>
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Directions:</h4>
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Heat the olive oil in the bottom of a heavy 6 to 8 quart stock pot. Add the chopped onions, celery, carrots and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the meats and stir into the vegetables. Brown over high heat, making sure you stir frequently so the meat doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan. Add the tomato paste, coconut milk, white wine and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an hour and a half. Add salt and pepper to taste.</div>
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For the zoodles, use a spiralizer or mandolin to turn the zucchini into noodles. Steam for about 15 minutes prior to serving. You want the noodles al dente.</div>
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Serve the bolognese over the noodles.</div>
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And then eat the hell out of it. It's that good.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-4723517060518271302015-01-24T20:52:00.003-08:002015-01-24T20:52:48.571-08:00Black Bean Chili with MushroomsWe had our annual craft night party this week, and I made some vegetarian Black Bean and Mushroom Chili to share. The ladies liked it and asked for the recipe, so here it is. :) First things first, if you are using dried black beans, soak them overnight. Just do it. It's longer than the boiling method, but it leaves you with a better consistency bean.<br />
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So I soaked my beans overnight. Then the next morning, I started with some basic spices: mustard seed, chili powder, cumin and cardamom. I added a little olive oil and toasted the spices.<br />
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Then I mixed in mushrooms and onions and some water and let it sweat a bit. :)<br />
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I drained my black beans and put them in the crockpot. I added tomatillos, tomato paste, vegetable stock, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to my onion and mushroom mixture. I mixed it all together, and then poured it over the black beans.<br />
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I cooked it on high for about 8 hours. I wanted the beans to have more of a creamy texture.<br />
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Sorry for the steam in the pic, but it was hot. :)<br />
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We served it in these super-adorable and 'easy to clean up' paper bowls. Mostly because I don't actually have enough dishes to feed everyone. :) But the bowls work great. My mom made cornbread to go with the chili. The corn bread she makes is off the corn meal box, and she substitutes honey or organic cane sugar, almond milk, and almond flour to make it allergy friendly for me.<br />
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Black Bean Chili with Mushrooms</h3>
<h4>
Ingredients:</h4>
<div>
1 lb dried Black Beans</div>
<div>
1 Tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil</div>
<div>
1 Tbsp Ground Mustard</div>
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2 Tbsp Chili Powder</div>
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1 1/2 tsp Cumin</div>
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1/2 tsp Cardamom</div>
<div>
2 Onions, medium, chopped</div>
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1 lb Mushrooms, sliced</div>
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1/4 Cup Water</div>
<div>
~8 oz Tomatillos, husked and chopped</div>
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~5 Cups Vegetable Stock</div>
<div>
6 oz can Tomato Paste</div>
<div>
2-3 Tbsp Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce, minced. (Find the sugar-free version... it's worth it. Much smokier taste)</div>
<h4>
Directions:</h4>
Soak the black beans overnight. In the morning, put the spices and oil in a 5-6 quart dutch oven or heavy stock pot. Toast the spices for a couple of minutes. Add the onions, mushrooms and water and let it sweat for a few minutes, maybe 5-7 minutes. Then add the tomatillos, vegetable stock, tomato paste and peppers. Stir and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.<br />
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Drain the black beans and put them in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the onion and mushroom mixture over the top. Cover and turn on high for 8 hours.<br />
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Dish up and enjoy!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-19736678704827403782015-01-22T10:44:00.001-08:002015-01-22T10:44:32.976-08:00Chicken Sausage and Brown Rice "Risotto"I made this for lunch on Tuesday and just had to share it...<br />
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It's one of those meals that I kind of threw together. I was craving risotto, but I can't actually eat any dairy, and because I am on another Whole Life Challenge team (<a href="http://www.wholelifechallenge.com/">www.wholelifechallenge.com</a>) for the next 52 days, I only get brown rice. No white rice for me. So with those slight dietary restrictions, this is what I came up with. :) It's not strict paleo since it incorporates rice, but for those people who have kept brown rice in their diets, it works just fine. It is AIP friendly, however (unless you are in the 6-8 week Phase 1 with no grains, no citrus).<br />
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So I start with some organic chicken sausage. No sugars, no nitrates, etc. I quarter and slice it.<br />
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I used shallots, and diced them. You could easily sub these for onions, but I happened to have shallots just sitting there. True story. My kitchen is weird that way.<br />
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I melted some coconut oil (you could sub olive oil or some other kind of healthy fat), and sauteed the sausage, shallots, and some minced garlic together. Once it is fragrant, I added in a cup of uncooked brown rice and toasted it.<br />
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Then I added chicken stock. This would be awesome with bone broth, too, but that never just "sits around" in my kitchen. It is pretty much gone as fast as I make it.<br />
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Once it was finished cooking and the rice was soft, I added in two big handfuls of arugula. Again, you could easily sub something like baby spinach, but I was feeling the arugula today. :) I also zested and juiced a whole lime in here, and I added some fresh cilantro. Delicious!<br />
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<h3>
Chicken Sausage and Brown Rice "Risotto"</h3>
<h4>
Ingredients:</h4>
<div>
1 Tbsp Coconut Oil (or other healthy fat)</div>
<div>
3 chicken sausages (about 3/4 lb), quartered and diced</div>
<div>
2 large shallots (or 1/2 onion) diced</div>
<div>
6 cloves Garlic, minced</div>
<div>
1 Cup Brown Rice, uncooked</div>
<div>
2 1/2 Cups Chicken Stock (or bone broth)</div>
<div>
2 Cups Baby Arugula</div>
<div>
1 Lime, zested and juiced</div>
<div>
1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped</div>
<h4>
Directions:</h4>
<div>
Melt the coconut oil in a 3 quart pan over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and saute until just turning brown. Then add the shallots and garlic and continue to saute until fragrant. Add in the brown rice and stir, letting it toast for about 2-3 minutes. Then pour in the chicken stock, stir, and bring to a boil.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally until all the liquid is incorporated and the rice is soft. This takes about 35-40 minutes. If you are using white rice instead of brown, this will take about 1/2 the time.</div>
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<div>
Once it is cooked, add in the arugula, lime zest and juice, and the fresh cilantro. Stir and serve!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-8086468761806333272015-01-20T13:45:00.000-08:002015-01-20T13:45:01.224-08:00Seahawks Make the Superbowl!Okay friends, I apologize for having been so quiet for so long. I had some major changes happen in my life over the past couple of months and I am now blogging from my new office, which is right down the hallway from my new kitchen, in my new house. So it's been a bit hectic. On top of that, I had a custom quilt order that needed to get out the door in time for football playoffs, and that's the first thing I'm going to share with you this year!<br />
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As I am sure you all know, the Seattle Seahawks won the Superbowl last year. And they're going to do it again this year, I hope! Living in the Pacific Northwest, we have lots of Seahawks fans here. One of them contacted me and requested a quilt to celebrate the Seahawks. I really enjoyed this one because I got to design the pattern, hand-pick the fabrics, and keep it a secret until it was finished!<br />
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So here it is, all laid out my new living room floor. This was easy to do because I have no furniture in my living room. Priorities... ;)<br />
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The quilt was designed with the Seahawks' colors in mind. The navy, lime green, and grey. I used white for the sashing.</div>
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The back of the quilt is an ombre chevron pattern in the lime green and white and was just way too cool to pass up. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxks6O8pICaMGuQp6It77cqlAwdux5duRHwlka065JiE-D2EiSytKJFAtc14lHjxSMq4-IDHxCUkw8l5S-Lj-UBQcxStah0CtwKO7uXAynwh_i9YWdZBVU90ijS8EUbaYfjRAbN-XTwo/s1600/PC232085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxks6O8pICaMGuQp6It77cqlAwdux5duRHwlka065JiE-D2EiSytKJFAtc14lHjxSMq4-IDHxCUkw8l5S-Lj-UBQcxStah0CtwKO7uXAynwh_i9YWdZBVU90ijS8EUbaYfjRAbN-XTwo/s1600/PC232085.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The numbers of some of our key players are appliqued on the blocks. The big "12" in the middle... yeah, that's for 12th Man!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BmYf8Uw6BSaRvp101WN91O_3ZZgqYWAY4sgCUv4RnISS-ViTdMhQLej7K5fBdNOl3dBFZYEJdoqORjes3nNBuMEctFopZBtxB_3bkY78EpwZ0YIZLsMPlDQFGCVgU4bNzsS4gj2Z1Bg/s1600/PC232086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BmYf8Uw6BSaRvp101WN91O_3ZZgqYWAY4sgCUv4RnISS-ViTdMhQLej7K5fBdNOl3dBFZYEJdoqORjes3nNBuMEctFopZBtxB_3bkY78EpwZ0YIZLsMPlDQFGCVgU4bNzsS4gj2Z1Bg/s1600/PC232086.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used my stipple foot to meander in all of the blocks with white thread. I like the effect on the darker blocks, and I like the texture it gives to the blocks.<br />
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So there we go... the perfect quilt to curl up under and cheer the 2014 Superbowl Champs on to what will hopefully be a back-to-back Superbowl win!<br />
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GO HAWKS!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-55980033924171325582014-10-30T13:07:00.001-07:002014-10-30T13:07:07.295-07:00Sausage and Squash CasseroleOkay folks, got another one to share with you. I made this yesterday and am actually eating it for lunch right now as I write this post. :) Yes, it's that good.<br />
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I mixed up a double batch yesterday, one for me and one for my friend's parents. They have some dietary/health challenges, too, and it makes me happy to cook for people. So I hope they enjoy it as much as I do!<br />
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So there are two ways to start this casserole. You can use whole butternut squash (like I did), which is going to add almost one hour to your prep time, FYI. But if cooking is your therapy (like it is mine), the chopping and peeling are therapeutic. :) If not, your other option is to buy butternut squash already peeled and cubed. Cheater. Lol!<br />
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If you are using whole squash, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and put them in there whole for about 30 minutes. They should get soft. Let them cool, then peel them, cut them, scrape out the seeds, and chop them into 1-inch cubes.<br />
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Take your broth, water and sage and bring it to a simmer as you cook the pork.<br />
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For this casserole, I used a mild Italian pork sausage (sugar-free because of my allergies). I browned it over medium heat, then transferred it to another bowl while I used the fat to cook my onions, garlic and apples.<br />
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I added my rice to the onions and apples. If you are going full paleo with this, you can replace the rice with riced cauliflower.<br />
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Then I added in the meat, squash and broth, as well as the thyme, wine </div>
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Once it cooks down a bit, put into your casserole dish.<br />
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I baked it for 35 minutes at 400 degrees, and it was fabulous! If you are not allergic to dairy, you could easily add some Parmesan cheese at the end and I bet that would be delicious!<br />
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<h3>
Sausage and Squash Casserole</h3>
<h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Ingredients for 1 13x9 pan:</span></h4>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 Butternut Squash, peeled and cubed</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">3 Cups Chicken Broth</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 Cup Water</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 heaping Tbsp Dried Sage</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Olive Oil (or Coconut Oil)</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 lb Pork Sausage, not in casing</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 Sweet Onion, diced</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 Honey Crisp Apple (or other sweet variety), peeled and chopped</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">3 Cloves Garlic, minced</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 Cup Rice, short grain and uncooked. *If you use brown rice, you will need to at least start the cooking process before adding it to the casserole.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1/4 Cup White Wine</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">1 1/2 tsp. Thyme</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Salt and Pepper to taste</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">If using whole butternut squash, cook according to my suggestions above, then peel and cube and set aside. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">In a saucepan, bring broth, water and sage to a simmer. Let it simmer while the pork cooks. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and pork sausage. Brown sausage and set aside. In the sausage drippings, saute the onions for 2-3 minutes. Then add the garlic and apple. Saute another 2-3 minutes. Then add in the rice for another 2-3 minutes. Then add the broth mixture, squash and pork. Let cook for about 5 minutes, until you start to see the rice absorbing the liquid.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Transfer to a casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake in a 400 degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-74410894753893618422014-10-14T10:08:00.002-07:002014-10-19T07:50:50.460-07:00Slow Cooker BarbacoaFall is here... and although I love the crisp air, the colors of the leaves changing, and all the fall food... I'm really not a fan of the grey and wet that covers the Pacific Northwest for the next 8 months. I mean, I can handle it for a few weeks... but 8 months? Come on. Ridiculous.<br />
<br />
So in an attempt to ignore the grey, I decided to experiment in the kitchen again. And of course, I used my crockpot. Seriously folks... if you don't have one, get one. They are awesome. And they make life EASY. Just put your food in, and eat it eight hours later. Now granted, crockpot food doesn't always look beautiful in photos... but since I plan on eating it instead of framing photos of it, I get over that pretty quickly.<br />
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So I started with a 3 pound roast, and then I trimmed off the majority of the fat, and cut it into cubes. After it cooks for 8 hours, I shred it. I have found that the cubes shred pretty easily using two forks.<br />
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I chopped up a small red onion...<br />
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I used the fresh peppers from my CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) basket. If you want it spicier, make sure you use some fresh jalapenos, habanero peppers, or whatever your favorite varietal is. You could also add some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. I would probably add maybe two peppers, and maybe two tablespoons of the sauce for some added heat. For those of you with sugar allergies (like me!), read the label on the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce carefully. It is possible to get some without sugar, but you have to search.<br />
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<br />
I added some apple cider vinegar as well. This is my favorite brand... good stuff!<br />
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I mixed in my spices (cumin, oregano, cilantro, bay leaves, cloves, salt and pepper).<br />
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I added the juice of one lime, 5 cloves of minced garlic, about a tablespoon of tomato paste, and some beef broth. Mixed it all together and turned the crockpot on low...<br />
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And got this eight hours later. I used two forks to shred the larger chunks of beef. I ate this over brown rice. Mike made it into a burrito. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!<br />
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<h3>
<b>Slow Cooker Barbacoa</b></h3>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
3 lb roast<br />
1 small red onion<br />
3-4 peppers of your choice (more to taste if you want spicier)<br />
5 cloves of garlic, minced<br />
1 Tbsp Tomato Paste<br />
2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar<br />
3-4 Bay Leaves<br />
1 Tbsp Cumin<br />
1 Tbsp Cilantro<br />
1 Tbsp Oregano<br />
A dash of ground cloves<br />
Salt and Pepper to taste<br />
Juice of 1 lime<br />
1/2 cup beef broth<br />
<br />
Trim the fat off the roast and cube it. Put it in the crockpot with the diced onion, peppers, and garlic. Add the remaining ingredients. Stir, and turn the crockpot on low. Come back in 8 hours. Shred the larger chunks of beef. Enjoy! Really... it's that easy.<br />
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This recipe was shared on the <a href="http://www.tessadomesticdiva.com/2014/10/allergy-free-wednesday-139.html" target="_blank">Allergy Free Wednesday #139 through Tessa the Domestic Diva</a>. For those of you out there looking for special diet recipes, or just good healthy food... make sure you check this out!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-38251454746689310272014-10-09T09:40:00.000-07:002014-10-09T09:40:46.038-07:00Irish Chain Baby QuiltHappy Thursday, everyone! I hope you all have been enjoying this incredibly rare October weather like I have. I had a wonderful time last night going out with some friends. We had happy hour at <a href="http://cafenell.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Nell </a>, sitting outside in the sun, and then on to <a href="http://www.lucy.com/" target="_blank">Lucy</a> for a shopping extravaganza! I am not a big fan of shopping. I do it, oh... never. But workout clothes are different, right? Right. Glad we settled that.<br />
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So on to the quilting... :)<br />
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I received a custom order from a tennis friend. She has her very first granddaughter and ordered a quilt to go with the colors of the baby's room. So she picked the colors, and asked for elephants if possible, but gave me free rein to do what I wanted with the rest of it.<br />
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I delivered it to her earlier this week, so I can share it with you all now!<br />
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I picked an Irish Chain pattern in a wall hanging size, and then beefed it up a tiny bit. :)<br />
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I used the elephant fabric for the larger blocks and quilted around it free-hand.<br />
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I did straight line quilting through the Irish Chain blocks, and finished the border with a diamond pattern.<br />
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The elephants are on the back, and they are so stinkin' cute!<br />
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And it's all finished off with a quilt tag...</div>
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So now, on to the next order: Seattle Seahawks Quilt!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-64290731722786124312014-10-06T15:00:00.003-07:002014-10-06T15:00:48.757-07:00Cold Hands, Warm HeartsHello everyone! Fall is coming... but not quite here in Vancouver yet! It's beautiful out, sunny and 80 degrees... crazy!<br />
<br />
So in honor of the changing season, I wanted to share some more pattern testing I have done for <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts.</a> This pattern is called Cold Hands, Warm Hearts and is my first real work with applique on quilts. I really enjoyed it, learned a lot, and LOVED how it turned out.<br />
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The applique included mittens (cold hands) and hearts (warm hearts)... hence the name!<br />
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It also has the cutest trees!<br />
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It is designed as a table topper, but would be awesome as a tree skirt, too... </div>
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I really liked the way the applique came out. The pattern uses a light fusible interfacing to make the applique easier. I liked this method so much, I'm using it on a custom quilt I'm working on now... (more on that later!).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-3-WsPV7oLdipaeZYYjw3vLj9tkLu44u7GoKAUORMhBqyFNcxeZxoQmRpfmaTBPgbk7ntQwRgTxRKGwXe0gW3XevsWYPkH1YLpXbtT3tLXRK41eKJntvL3P3oNf3KORmjStnEDN1ECv0/s1600/P9021903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-3-WsPV7oLdipaeZYYjw3vLj9tkLu44u7GoKAUORMhBqyFNcxeZxoQmRpfmaTBPgbk7ntQwRgTxRKGwXe0gW3XevsWYPkH1YLpXbtT3tLXRK41eKJntvL3P3oNf3KORmjStnEDN1ECv0/s1600/P9021903.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you guys like the pattern, you can check it out on <a href="http://blog.connectingthreads.com/gifty-galore-project-14/" target="_blank">Connecting Threads</a>. Shelley over at Cora's Quilts did the project for them...<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-54808668036953293802014-08-27T07:14:00.000-07:002014-08-27T07:14:26.603-07:00Around the World Blog HopHello everyone, and happy Wednesday! I was invited by Shelley at <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a> to participate in this blog hop, and I am excited and happy to share! <span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;">When you're invited, you tell a little about yourself, answer a few thought provoking questions and continue the blog hop by inviting 3 other bloggers who inspire you. They will blog the following week about their creative process and keep the blog hop going! This blog hop has seen a lot of quilty folks, which I think is awesome because I quilt, too, but I will be changing it up a bit now that it is my turn. Yes, I quilt, but I also do a lot of crafting, cooking, photography, writing, sports, reading and revelling in the beauty of everyday life. So I am taking the opportunity to invite other bloggers who inspire me and branching out a bit. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqIONfSpyGt_4EbXsI-mYdelqlte7XI5DeGgDNeZoQe6uyEropCNG6DWrGEc4ztRgPVSAg0ltfmuB2PpWgv388u1L-8pF9NuRiJCuR4PeIfejmoZmeVn5vaUf3vtinU41I0qGk9mD3-xk/s1600/Heidi+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqIONfSpyGt_4EbXsI-mYdelqlte7XI5DeGgDNeZoQe6uyEropCNG6DWrGEc4ztRgPVSAg0ltfmuB2PpWgv388u1L-8pF9NuRiJCuR4PeIfejmoZmeVn5vaUf3vtinU41I0qGk9mD3-xk/s1600/Heidi+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;">But first... a little about me. For those of you who do not know me, I am a project manager by day, and a schizophrenic creator for the rest of the time. I quilt, cross-stitch, sew, create recipes, blow up my kitchen, play with DIY home projects, and photograph anything that moves (and some things that don't). I enjoy tennis, reading, writing, eating (anything I am not allergic to... which isn't much), traveling, and feeding people. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;">I like to include stories of Mike and the Cats (Turbo and Hobo) in my blog. Mike and I have been together fifteen years now, and we have survived a lot of DIY projects together, and some DIY explosions, the most recent being the experience of the exploding beer bottles. Turns out home-brewed beer with added fruit has a very definite shelf-life. Note to self... But now, on to the questions!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What Am I Working On?</span></h4>
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Oh so many things. No, really. I have so many projects in the works right now. Some of them just need a little bit to finish, some of them need a lot... they are all in various stages of completion. So I guess we can just start at the top. </div>
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I am working on a couple of beautiful quilts designed by Shelley over at <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a>. I am working on Diane:</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;">I am working on finishing my Spring Sampler from her collection:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizx3wh3jcP1UKWvanFtMMMIU-QyxYGSCi0VAa3i0aB10O1_WOa3vBe_GvjPfQRMSl2H8al2egep1hMAz_u-F-w2Ip8o6XNrZIl1j9Li1L_e_hurG-I26Th_DCqeuxi67OgLVHogOQ5kGg/s1600/Blocks+1-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizx3wh3jcP1UKWvanFtMMMIU-QyxYGSCi0VAa3i0aB10O1_WOa3vBe_GvjPfQRMSl2H8al2egep1hMAz_u-F-w2Ip8o6XNrZIl1j9Li1L_e_hurG-I26Th_DCqeuxi67OgLVHogOQ5kGg/s1600/Blocks+1-9.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;">I am working on my eagle cross-stitch:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: 'Crafty Girls'; line-height: 24.9480037689209px;"> It's a bit wrinkly, I know... but that will get sorted out as I finish stitching. I have a ways to go, as you can see... don't hold your breath. :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLjXgw0MUWi5i6N7Dnxcxdrxvzda965VU1Zn1CWDIKhYqLdhWSaTE1uH7bX1MAqXDeUEjlbgLquYKz_Y67fhMMwjItpo8aSPrVnWBtjOaV0QeADsRXnHvnjPG93SEThxwN8MELHTCrZY/s1600/eagle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLjXgw0MUWi5i6N7Dnxcxdrxvzda965VU1Zn1CWDIKhYqLdhWSaTE1uH7bX1MAqXDeUEjlbgLquYKz_Y67fhMMwjItpo8aSPrVnWBtjOaV0QeADsRXnHvnjPG93SEThxwN8MELHTCrZY/s1600/eagle.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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I am also working on a custom order baby quilt that I need to finish binding, but you don't get to see it yet because the person who ordered it hasn't seen it yet! I promise, I will post pics when it is all done and delivered. </div>
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I have a Christmas themed table runner I am hoping to get done in time for Valentine's Day next year. </div>
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I am working on getting the pattern I created for my cousin's baby quilt ready to sell online.</div>
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I am always working on items for my <a href="http://swissmissstitches.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>. I sell quilts, cross-stitch items, and hand-sewn items like tote bags and tissue holders, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXVfwey7PU_0NfBWiSsAmycnCMuoHHFY-blF4a-dG40C8CAnFMtaKEA6LgXHFEdyAZHhyfwF2FUVrliCMVjrofjTg_d1iOHbxSh_avQv7sQcOCUn8JTO3itquZLUey-zLvflSiPo7RZg/s1600/PC210764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXVfwey7PU_0NfBWiSsAmycnCMuoHHFY-blF4a-dG40C8CAnFMtaKEA6LgXHFEdyAZHhyfwF2FUVrliCMVjrofjTg_d1iOHbxSh_avQv7sQcOCUn8JTO3itquZLUey-zLvflSiPo7RZg/s1600/PC210764.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_o_xh543I1QZVYpbdT34oG301lwxHaulKwR-bKGk-kSW0uS6MfFoRpaADo9VBF-wSAdk2P2KNpothQGeFcv-2DFUDIbidFUpyuLSYIeVa_GXrsfnO7psRaK4bvWAPvsOn6z1hE-KT8I/s1600/Pumpkin+Close+Up.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_o_xh543I1QZVYpbdT34oG301lwxHaulKwR-bKGk-kSW0uS6MfFoRpaADo9VBF-wSAdk2P2KNpothQGeFcv-2DFUDIbidFUpyuLSYIeVa_GXrsfnO7psRaK4bvWAPvsOn6z1hE-KT8I/s1600/Pumpkin+Close+Up.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUlxRTx-8O8bm0YKJXUlxDzaHAgTAmY5V2ZEAG77eR5TuQ52w1NjDFfq-VEHyJqzAaIhkpl5uaJOBZdYswxAWQmYK6tVwPOkgPW9W5nhvoIncLMOg_k8T5ZTg_Bb8_o1ZsMwQ4gpidHo/s1600/Poinsettia+Close+Up.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUlxRTx-8O8bm0YKJXUlxDzaHAgTAmY5V2ZEAG77eR5TuQ52w1NjDFfq-VEHyJqzAaIhkpl5uaJOBZdYswxAWQmYK6tVwPOkgPW9W5nhvoIncLMOg_k8T5ZTg_Bb8_o1ZsMwQ4gpidHo/s1600/Poinsettia+Close+Up.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqTtI7evApT7nq3kjUM1CSbX8e7B9qe-scI8bPTA3MGjOQsxRggg2WLQJgg9mu-FdES3srdFk7gJGCJQchPsJvWTeR4at-Vx9LFlAKcxqeerfH8Xmf5cHsE9Job8xVTRav_v_D_4usDU/s1600/P9221186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqTtI7evApT7nq3kjUM1CSbX8e7B9qe-scI8bPTA3MGjOQsxRggg2WLQJgg9mu-FdES3srdFk7gJGCJQchPsJvWTeR4at-Vx9LFlAKcxqeerfH8Xmf5cHsE9Job8xVTRav_v_D_4usDU/s1600/P9221186.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7Juvr36-1nS5K0IHK6g7-2DUHHK8jcFpDcVT-0uIHNbZmqmjw6-NUTMp3atcHfazbvBXhACHur2ZRf79-UsBDVdLXGHh22kkNIC6UT8Tt7oENfmD8ojTxdwocaWC2QOILWwiQPnTN4I/s1600/Bag+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7Juvr36-1nS5K0IHK6g7-2DUHHK8jcFpDcVT-0uIHNbZmqmjw6-NUTMp3atcHfazbvBXhACHur2ZRf79-UsBDVdLXGHh22kkNIC6UT8Tt7oENfmD8ojTxdwocaWC2QOILWwiQPnTN4I/s1600/Bag+1.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a></div>
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I am also working on the idea of a cookbook. I post a lot of my recipes on my blog, but it might be kind of neat to put them in an e-book for downloads. With my food allergies, I eat a lot of Paleo or Anti-Inflammatory Protocol foods, and I find a lot of people looking for information and recipes for those "diets".<br />
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How Does My Work Differ from Others in its Genre?</h4>
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Yeah, that's a good question. I don't really know if my work differs all that much across the different projects, but I am probably one of the more Attention Deficit Disorder bloggers, since I cover so many topics with my blog. I read somewhere that if I want to make my blog successful, I should focus on one thing. But that wouldn't be true to myself since I am pretty much incapable of focusing on one thing! I know that I have readers who are not interested in the sewing/stitching/quilting, and I know I have readers that could care less about the food, and I know that other readers are really just waiting to see more pictures of my cats. So I just try to feed it all. Some day I may split them into separate blogs, but for right now, it's really just a sharing of myself with you, and it comes in this super-disorganized forum because that's how I roll. </div>
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Why Do I Write and Create What I Do?</h4>
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What I write and what I create are all an expression of who I am, and how I'm feeling. Even when I am quilting or stitching someone else's pattern, it's my choice of colors, fabrics, thread, quilting design... all depending on what I am trying to express. It used to be that I would pick a pattern and spend hours searching for just the right fabric. Now I find that I see a fabric that speaks to me, and then it all just comes together in minutes. Literally minutes. And writing is often the same way... I have something I want to write about, and it will just flow. I rarely experience writer's block when I am sharing a topic or something that has importance to me. </div>
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Lately I have found that I am branching out more in my projects. I used to stick with projects that I knew would be manageable, wouldn't take too much time, wouldn't scare me away... then I attempted a purse pattern. It took me three years. No kidding. I would start to work on it, panic because I didn't understand what I was doing, and then put it away again. When I finally sat down and did it (with some help from my awesome friend Chris Comfort explaining things to me!), I enjoyed it so much I made a second one for a friend. And now, I don't let the fear of not knowing stop me. I grew past that. I am interested to see where I grow next... :) I'm sure you will hear about it. I will put it right here on this blog when it happens.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfIhy_Ob_SSoXQI6W9QESd0Xy2ukTCxWUzTt2ygOdB-wfR5ltzw1eDE09MXX88TpV8Iiom-uKsJ8gwiufCuBwaqGznav03ivSrxquZqf5UUR4m0MUveqoELHuHj8UsnnAoGohn9tlnp8/s1600/PB051254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfIhy_Ob_SSoXQI6W9QESd0Xy2ukTCxWUzTt2ygOdB-wfR5ltzw1eDE09MXX88TpV8Iiom-uKsJ8gwiufCuBwaqGznav03ivSrxquZqf5UUR4m0MUveqoELHuHj8UsnnAoGohn9tlnp8/s1600/PB051254.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The infamous purse. :)</td></tr>
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How Does My Writing and Creating Process Work?</h4>
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Oho... if I only knew. Honestly. Sometimes I will wake up in the middle of the night with an idea, or a thought. And I have found that I do some of my best thinking while in the shower in the morning. I designed the Christmas presents for my nephews in there. No joke. When I can clear my head and just close my eyes, there is a clarity to what I want to do (even if I had no previous idea I wanted to do it), and then it just flows.</div>
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Sometimes it is because I have experienced something I want to remember, like a trip to Europe might inspire a quilt. Or a meal at a restaurant might inspire a new recipe. Or a book I have read might inspire a craft project. I find beauty in just about everything in life, and it often inspires me to try and create new things. I definitely wouldn't say I have any one particular muse, but I have found that a nice bottle of red wine never hurts, either. :)</div>
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And speaking of where I get my inspiration... I would like to introduce you to three bloggers who have inspired me in different ways over the years. I read probably around a hundred blogs on a consistent basis... everything from quilting to recipes, to dying fabric, to farming (no, I don't farm... yet), knitting (no, I don't knit... yet), travel blogs, blogs on how to minimize my carbon footprint, canning (yes, I do can)... just about everything. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eEiTlwKwIPU/U7ByfDkPF4I/AAAAAAAACqE/aF4FiglGvkI/s1600/new%2Bdimensions%2Bwith%2Btext%2B50%2Bpercent%2Boriginal%2Bsize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eEiTlwKwIPU/U7ByfDkPF4I/AAAAAAAACqE/aF4FiglGvkI/s1600/new%2Bdimensions%2Bwith%2Btext%2B50%2Bpercent%2Boriginal%2Bsize.jpg" height="132" width="320" /></a>The first blogger that I would like to call out in the blog hop and introduce to you is Janelle Serio with <a href="http://throughtheknittinglens.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Through the Knitting Lens</a>. She is not just my dental hygenist (no joke!), she is an amazing designer, creator, mother, wife, and friend. Her blog lets you look through the knitting lens and into her world, and you will find yourself a better person for it. </div>
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The second blogger that I think you need to meet is Rudd McGarity with <a href="http://ruddmcgarity1.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Life Part FOUR</a>. Rudd tells his story of finding inspiration and joy in life with his daughter, his girlfriend, the shop he owns and operates, his sports, and his friends. He talks of personal discovery and growth, and he tells it like it is.</div>
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The third blogger that I want to introduce is Amy Venezia with <a href="http://amyvtalk.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Amy V-talk</a>. Amy's perspective on life, her inspiration, her creations (I hope she shares Nola Creations with you when it's her turn!), and her ability to share life's lessons in a simple, succinct, yet beautiful manner is truly inspiring. Make sure you check out her post on Jessie's Girl that just came up. Not just because it was a good song (which is now stuck in my head), but because it is an important point that I think so many people never see. Some things are just too close for us to see until it's too late. I appreciate Amy's style of writing, the topics she chooses, and how she shares her personal experiences: good, bad, and beautiful.</div>
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I am looking forward to seeing their posts next week. Thank you all for letting me share a little about me in this blog hop!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-45293760118748445822014-08-25T14:15:00.003-07:002014-08-25T14:15:20.650-07:00Paleo-friendly Caramel Chocolate Chunk CookiesYou just keep reading that title and you are pretty sure there is no way, right? Because how do you get caramel and chocolate chunk cookies without sugar? Or flour? Well, I have my ways. And aren't you lucky... I'm going to share them. :)<br />
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Before we go any further, I just want to let you know that not only did I love the way these turned out, Mike ate them and liked them, too! So if you are looking at the pictures and thinking 'ew', just trust me here. The end result is worth it.<br />
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So first things first... you need to soak your dates in water. Pit them, and soak them in water for at least thirty minutes. They look a little icky... just go with it.<br />
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While your dates are soaking, put your cashew butter, baking powder and vanilla extract in a food processor (yup... not a mixer, a food processor), and pulse for a few seconds.<br />
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It will come out looking creamy and delicious.</div>
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When your dates are done soaking, put them in a blender with some sea salt and about 2 Tbsp of water. I have found that it helps to chop the dates up a bit first, since they can get stuck in the blender blades. Blend until it resembles a caramel consistency. You will probably need to use a spatula to scrape down the sides and clear the blades a couple of times in the process.<br />
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Add the caramel-like date mixture to your food processor.<br />
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Pulse a few times until it is blended in.<br />
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Add your chocolate chips. I use the Enjoy Life Mega Chunks. They are dairy free, soy free, nut free...etc. And they taste like real chocolate. None of the carob stuff for me!<br />
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Pulse in the chocolate chips until you have cookie dough.<br />
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Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for about 9-11 minutes, depending on your oven and how thick your cookie balls are. Just as an FYI... I will be flattening mine out a bit next time so they will only need the 9 minute time.<br />
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Then enjoy!<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
5-6 Medjool dates, pitted and soaked<br />
1 Cup Cashew Butter<br />
2 Tbsp Water<br />
1 tsp Vanilla Extract<br />
1/4 tsp Baking Powder<br />
1/4 tsp Sea Salt<br />
1/2 Cup Chocolate Chips<br />
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<b>Instructions:</b><br />
Soak the dates in water for at least 30 minutes. Then drain the water and put in a blender with the 2 tablespoons of water and the sea salt. Blend until it forms a mixture the consistency of caramel.<br />
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.<br />
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Pulse the cashew butter, baking powder and vanilla extract in a food processor until smooth. Add the date mixture and pulse until well combined. Add the chocolate chips and pulse some more.<br />
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Use a spoon to put the cookies on a silpat or parchment paper lined cookie tray. Bake for 9-11 minutes, depending on the size of your cookies. Wait until the cookies have cooled completely before you try and take them off the tray. They will be a bit crumbly.<br />
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Store in an airtight container. Remember, there are no preservatives in these cookies, so they will only last a few days. So eat fast. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-53437334313112499532014-08-21T11:24:00.003-07:002014-08-21T11:24:45.442-07:00Lamb TagineHello everyone! I'm getting settled back in to my normal brand of ADD/craziness/identity crisis here at DIY and Live to Tell. Thank you all for the cool comments on my Oaxaca posts. I know they had really nothing to do with DIY or projects, but it was still fun to share with you.<br />
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Now that I am back in the swing of things, I have more food to share with you. I made a special meal last night because my Mom's really good friend Chris is in town, visiting from Perth, Australia. She sometimes reads my blog, so 'Hi, Chris!' It was so good to see her. So I made lamb tagine over brown rice, with asparagus, and cookies for dessert (I will share that recipe in a later post, but I will share it!).<br />
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This lamb tagine recipe is adapted from a traditional Moroccan recipe, and it is Paleo friendly. If you want to go full AIP, you will need to leave out the cayenne pepper and tomato paste, but I still think it would be very good. The recipe also has a very long list of ingredients, but since it is mostly spices, don't let it deter you. It is well worth it!<br />
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For those of you who are hesitant about lamb... trust me on this one. This recipe marinates overnight, sears it then slow cooks it, and I'm not kidding... it cuts with a fork. And there is no game-y taste because of all the spices. You will love it. Trust me.<br />
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So the first thing I do is mix all the spices together in a ziplock bag. Then sniff it. I'm not joking. Stick your nose in there and inhale. You will be very happy you did this. The smell is wonderful.<br />
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I bought this lamb as a shoulder roast and had the butcher at my local grocery store de-bone and cut it into pieces for me. Way easier than doing it myself. :)<br />
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I drizzle a little olive oil over the lamb, toss it, and then put the lamb in the bag with the spices. Then I toss it well to combine it, and literally massage the spices into the meat. Just knead away at it until you are sure that you have the spice combo in every nook and cranny of the meat. Then put it in the fridge and let it marinate overnight.l<br />
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The next day, when you are ready to cook your meal, you want to take the marinated meat and brown it<br />
in a little olive oil over medium-high heat. It should only take a couple of minutes. You are just searing it, and will slow cook it in a few minutes.<br />
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I don't have a traditional tagine oven, so I use my dutch oven for this and it works great. Yes, the spices and olive oil will make a dark coating on the bottom of the pan, but don't panic... this will all come up as you slow-cook it and mix in wonderfully to the sauce. I promise.<br />
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When the lamb is seared, remove it to a plate and set aside.<br />
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Add the onions and carrots and saute for a couple of minutes. You will notice the spices off the bottom of the pan start to mix in.<br />
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Add in the garlic, ginger, meat, chicken broth, zest, tomato paste, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, put a lid on it, and simmer for another two hours. Stir it occasionally.<br />
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If you want to thicken the broth, use a little arrowroot powder.<br />
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I served mine over brown rice, with asparagus (a little sea salt, a little olive oil, under the broiler), and some really fantastic Franciscan Estate Meritage wine. So yummy!<br />
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<b><u>Lamb Tagine:</u></b><br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Olive Oil<br />
2-3 lbs lamb meat, cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes<br />
3 tsp. Paprika<br />
1/2 tsp Turmeric<br />
3/4 tsp Ground Cumin<br />
1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (leave out if AIP)<br />
1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon<br />
3/8 tsp (or just shy of 1/2 tsp) Ground Cloves<br />
3/4 tsp Ground Cardamom<br />
1 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt<br />
3/4 tsp Ground Ginger<br />
1 large pinch of Saffron<br />
1 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder<br />
1 1/4 tsp Ground Coriander<br />
2 medium onions, diced<br />
7 carrots, peeled, cut into strips<br />
5 cloves of Garlic, minced<br />
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh grated Ginger<br />
1 lemon, zested<br />
14 oz of Chicken Broth (one can, or I used my homemade broth)<br />
1 1/2 Tbsp Sun-Dried Tomato Paste (omit if AIP)<br />
1 1/2 Tbsp Honey<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Place diced lamb in a bowl and toss with a little olive oil. Set aside. In a large, resealable bag (I use ziplock), toss the paprika, turmeric, cumin, cayenne, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, salt, ginger, saffron, garlic powder, and coriander together. Add the lamb to the bag and toss well to combine. Then massage the spices into the meat through the bag until you know they are in there. Really in there. Then refrigerate overnight.<br />
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Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 the lamb and brown well, then remove to a plate. Repeat with the remaining lamb. Add onions and carrots to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir in the fresh garlic and ginger and continue cooking another five minutes or so. Return the lamb to the pot and stir in the lemon zest, chicken broth, tomato paste and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for another 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The meat should be very tender.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-16687897664078499392014-08-03T01:19:00.002-07:002014-08-03T01:19:26.261-07:00My last day in OaxacaSo here I am, sitting in the Los Angeles Airport... camped out right next to the Delta check-in. Which is closed. As was the connecting baggage section of customs. So I have my luggage with me. And I found a plug-in, but it doesn't work. And I can't actually enter the airport until 4:00, and they won't take my luggage until 4:00. So I here I sit. So I figured I would put together a blog post until my battery dies. :)<br />
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So I had lots of time to wander around Oaxaca before I had to leave for the airport. I found the Saturday market, some great architecture, and spent some time in my favorite park, on a shady bench.<br />
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One of my favorite things about Oaxaca is the colors. The buildings are all brightly colored. And the doors are amazing. They have huge wooden doors with smaller doors inside them. Or they have standard sized doors, but they are intricately carved. Or they have doors with some beautiful iron work on them... they just don't have plain doors anywhere! So I took some pictures of buildings with doors.<br />
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I took a picture of the display in the bakery... I can't eat it, but man it looked good!<br />
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The Saturday market was housed in the plaza outside of one of the cathedrals. I will admit I lost track of which one, but it is an incredible building with beautiful architecture and details. The market has food vendors, people selling handmade wooden toys, clothing, music... everything! There was even a perfume stand.<br />
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They had barrel vaulting in the ceiling, and medallions...<br />
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This was some graffiti that was definitely worth photographing.<br />
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And an artsy cross outside of a school...<br />
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The flowers are beautiful. I got lots of pictures of flowers. :)<br />
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And this is the amphitheater at the top of the hill, where the cultural dance celebration was going on all week.<br />
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It's actually a pretty cool structure!<br />
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And I had to include the lamppost because I like it.<br />
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This is the Cathedral de Santo Domingo. It is the same place I visited on the first day, and I walked by it every day of my stay here. A large part of the cultural celebration was happening here.</div>
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They have a botanical garden in the square. Not exactly sure what these plants are, but they are some sort of succulent, and they are really cool!<br />
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Then I spent some time in the park...<br />
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More crazy succulents...</div>
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And that about sums it up.<br />
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Three more hours until I can go in search of some coffee.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-49930994794480493512014-08-01T14:45:00.001-07:002014-08-01T14:45:57.109-07:00The Sidewalks of OaxacaI realize you all might think I am a little bit crazy, and maybe I am, but I actually am writing a blog post on the sidewalks of Oaxaca. I have shown you pictures of the street fair, I am hoping to get some good pictures of the street art to show you in the next day or so, but I really do want to show you the sidewalks.<br />
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Remember this picture from an earlier post?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1n1fbQniOjfGTmOAx3Oa-yz1lRbxNgOsk0GtKk5eeGtvtdRxyB5sGu7BWuc04lsYV-L-djaRlf-8Oiz6WsgXP6Lkdhb-9mUOgTVv8mrEi6d7Y2COfvGupDLYLCBGwSZhAKjDBSLylQM/s1600/IMG_0881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1n1fbQniOjfGTmOAx3Oa-yz1lRbxNgOsk0GtKk5eeGtvtdRxyB5sGu7BWuc04lsYV-L-djaRlf-8Oiz6WsgXP6Lkdhb-9mUOgTVv8mrEi6d7Y2COfvGupDLYLCBGwSZhAKjDBSLylQM/s1600/IMG_0881.jpg" height="320" width="237" /></a></div>
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Well, it is just scratching the surface of why walking and texting, or pretty much walking and ANYTHING, is a challenge in this city. Here are some more examples. I know that part of the disrepair of the sidewalks is due to the earthquakes, but there was some seriously poor planning when they planted the trees here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt39ulMWndxAHV_BrmYCnR58rEI_41zSDGXLOKXVnnuV73dz69hbbO12a7P9QQMkTdme-8ahsAuF9soyy6X7vTon5WCZp5euZ7sVB4rE4F-mgXo2HDjWTpGSJd2GA6qLkULjMPhhTqxA0/s1600/Oaxaca+Sidewalk+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt39ulMWndxAHV_BrmYCnR58rEI_41zSDGXLOKXVnnuV73dz69hbbO12a7P9QQMkTdme-8ahsAuF9soyy6X7vTon5WCZp5euZ7sVB4rE4F-mgXo2HDjWTpGSJd2GA6qLkULjMPhhTqxA0/s1600/Oaxaca+Sidewalk+1.jpg" /></a></div>
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As the trees grow, their roots just move the sidewalk aside. In the picture above, the tree is actually pushing the slabs of concrete up. Below is another example of the same thing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoBRwSxNYYK625wcy6M-xNh3_-8w8Q2sv69kP4dcDMFEV_9msI6WutSqZOFN3zjqw_6c5cOM3BBRVbTbxS8iYV3VNYGdmhOHo-JwBhtu0A9SNdmjcWt2bWN5R0lJcRFP-qFIGOwTeWp4s/s1600/Oaxaca+Sidewalk+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoBRwSxNYYK625wcy6M-xNh3_-8w8Q2sv69kP4dcDMFEV_9msI6WutSqZOFN3zjqw_6c5cOM3BBRVbTbxS8iYV3VNYGdmhOHo-JwBhtu0A9SNdmjcWt2bWN5R0lJcRFP-qFIGOwTeWp4s/s1600/Oaxaca+Sidewalk+2.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can actually see how the tree root has grown above the curb and pushed the sidewalk up at least 6 inches! When you walk along this stretch of sidewalk (about 1 block from the office I have been working in all week), you find yourself walking sideways!</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWyjCWuRp9Ou7AdQI6v4X35laQVoZDiOnK3GkdLM4vTMUKtud0JCZZ3a7MltdYOQNpk8AkYnE-C69j4-tDVCqk-VZg37sduMWheuIKmOxBBulrJv1LjzLus2DzUxgsGMdFjFVOYQfPB0/s1600/Oaxaca+Sidewalk+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWyjCWuRp9Ou7AdQI6v4X35laQVoZDiOnK3GkdLM4vTMUKtud0JCZZ3a7MltdYOQNpk8AkYnE-C69j4-tDVCqk-VZg37sduMWheuIKmOxBBulrJv1LjzLus2DzUxgsGMdFjFVOYQfPB0/s1600/Oaxaca+Sidewalk+3.jpg" height="320" width="237" /></a></div>
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And then there is this example. This tree is actually pretty small, but it has a shallow root system and it has just cracked and pushed the concrete out of the way. </div>
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So as you can see, if you are looking anywhere but down while walking, you are definitely taking a risk of falling flat on your face! You can also see why I did not where the shoes with heels while I was here. That would have been taking my life into my hands with every step!</div>
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On a happier note... I was fortunate enough to run across a birthday party at the restaurant where I had dinner last night. They had a mariachi band, and I enjoyed it greatly!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3ge5tioh2-w2fokzHl2CHp_Eqt06b4-NTqHNZaSgIwP4BvpwxplUorP7s7WDRIfyklIhfBlEtXNDRvZzIslU_breX-m0ByssSLpC6zKHQ857mOoapYoWiPMTibaDlR3g8Xm7DiZaJ8A/s1600/Mariachi+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3ge5tioh2-w2fokzHl2CHp_Eqt06b4-NTqHNZaSgIwP4BvpwxplUorP7s7WDRIfyklIhfBlEtXNDRvZzIslU_breX-m0ByssSLpC6zKHQ857mOoapYoWiPMTibaDlR3g8Xm7DiZaJ8A/s1600/Mariachi+1.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WfOUsBYkDXBwExHTnVY3MIsQlptGOmaYWFRxEk-r24jHGGB0M67IPkL2l3FPHFcFRd0SwVGv1qnnIuIu6Vyi-CqKk0-thXIO5dFnJirzgA2qy23FN_KvSmBXCDeb8XQIu5FbWKvo2zA/s1600/Mariachi+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WfOUsBYkDXBwExHTnVY3MIsQlptGOmaYWFRxEk-r24jHGGB0M67IPkL2l3FPHFcFRd0SwVGv1qnnIuIu6Vyi-CqKk0-thXIO5dFnJirzgA2qy23FN_KvSmBXCDeb8XQIu5FbWKvo2zA/s1600/Mariachi+2.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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And last but not least... dinner last night. It was amazing. Seriously wonderful. I know I have been raving about the food, but just look at this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuF-i1aELUvj4T96LbHSmys-YBOy53-r5UsAejweYLhDi0AKevMu0rwOhbtieT0LnGjktd6SY4oh2Mf2-9Ktg-qHHx_kBDK3fGzA8cK1gLDN_VScp3gJshvEn653xGaucJeW0bBr8WhQ/s1600/Pato+Avocado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuF-i1aELUvj4T96LbHSmys-YBOy53-r5UsAejweYLhDi0AKevMu0rwOhbtieT0LnGjktd6SY4oh2Mf2-9Ktg-qHHx_kBDK3fGzA8cK1gLDN_VScp3gJshvEn653xGaucJeW0bBr8WhQ/s1600/Pato+Avocado.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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Seared duck with avocado, and a sauce of honey, lemon and chili pepper. Such a fantastic combo of flavors!<br />
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I have another 24 hours here in Oaxaca, so I will try and find more to share with you! Thanks for reading...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-33238576328207922362014-07-30T08:54:00.003-07:002014-07-30T08:54:20.535-07:00A Oaxacan Street Festival<span style="font-family: inherit;">So last night I went out for my standard evening food foraging experience, and I stumbled across more of the Oaxacan Street Festival that I have been seeing. It is apparently part of a bigger celebration called Guelaguetza, which is a cultural festival, but the last three days of July have lots of celebration including mañanitas,<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">calendas, religious activities, music and fireworks at the church of Carmen Bajo. So this is what I keep stumbling across.</span><br />
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There are lots of people out and about, with food stands, vendors, and music.<br />
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Under long tents, there are all kinds of handmade goods for sale, many of them with cultural roots in the 8 regions of Oaxaca.<br />
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There is a large stage with live music.<br />
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And there are people pretending to be statues. What a way to make a living. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uTeWusaPysqcMOX_fiB4fBZ-_drwiyLBpFikeq-kLU3hFBPx-duawRNC-QiNrbQ4D_9UvfEAPMyixgwQC3g_uz3wgDdeZR_5VikANUTV4jddvKepTWfi8192x3yGSNa2TDVjACLxCw0/s1600/Tuesday+dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uTeWusaPysqcMOX_fiB4fBZ-_drwiyLBpFikeq-kLU3hFBPx-duawRNC-QiNrbQ4D_9UvfEAPMyixgwQC3g_uz3wgDdeZR_5VikANUTV4jddvKepTWfi8192x3yGSNa2TDVjACLxCw0/s1600/Tuesday+dinner.jpg" height="275" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These botanas are complimentary with the meal. The brown ground meat in the upper left is actually fish... very good!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After all that, though... I did manage to find some dinner at Zandunga. I had some garnachas (no cheese), and some cochito horneada, a pork dish.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a picture of the garnachas with cheese (thank you to Foursquare for letting me use the picture). I ate mine too quickly to show you mine!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the cochitos horneada. I couldn't eat the corn-based dumpling because it had dairy, but the meat was delicious! (This photo is off the Foursquare site as well, because my photo was too dark)<br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And then the star of the evening: Mezcal. Zandunga specializes in their large list of available Mezcale. I only had the one, because boy it is strong! Mezcal is distilled from the agave plant (the maguey) and has a strong, smokey flavor. Very good! It is a local specialty of Oaxaca, so I had to give it a go!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While I was at the office during the day, we went out for lunch to a local restaurant that makes everything from special heritage corn. Not exactly paleo friendly, but since I don't have a problem with corn, it works out fine for me. :) I was lucky enough to try the heritage corn tortillas with fried egg on one (so good... definitely trying this at home!), and grilled mushrooms, onions and garlic on the other. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I wonder what foodie adventures the next day will hold?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-18865109599698233642014-07-29T05:38:00.000-07:002014-07-29T05:38:19.420-07:00A Shaky Start to Today...Good morning, Oaxaca! We had an interesting start to today: a 6.4 magnitude earthquake in Veracruz made it to us this morning, at 5:46 AM. So much for setting the alarm for 6:00. I guess now I know why I see so many of these:<br />
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Yup, those are my stylishly clad feet in that photo. I have discovered that these are the best shoes I have brought with me. Not only do I not have to worry about losing them in one of the sneaky sidewalk holes (seriously... these are ALL OVER), they protect my feet from the nasty mosquitoes. The mosquitoes are so insane here (it is currently the rainy season in Oaxaca) that I have actually already mastered the Spanish word for mosquito. Are you ready? Here it is: "Mosquito". Yup. I am a rockstar.<br />
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So I did manage to get some more pictures last night while I was out scavenging food. I found a fantastic little place a little over half a mile from my hotel, that was down a really quaint street. One side of the street was lined with shops and houses with the prettiest windows and geraniums. I apologize for the quality of the photos... it was dark and my phone I was using for the pictures is old as dirt.<br />
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I also love the colors of the buildings.<br />
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On the other side of the street was a thick wall (maybe 3-4 feet thick) built out of the green stone that is all over down here. The wall had archways all along it.<br />
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Some held doorways to homes.<br />
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Some were archways to alleys and other roads.<br />
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And some held courtyards. For part of the road, there appeared to be a very large house behind the wall, with a cactus garden growing on top, but it was hard to tell because it was a little dark and the wall is a lot taller than me. :)<br />
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But in the end, this quaint little cobblestoned road led me to this: Los Tres Conchitos (Carnitas), y uno copa de vino tinto. La comida era muy buena!<br />
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It will be interesting to see what the rest of today holds... Hope you all have a wonderful day!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-72352257688184378842014-07-28T06:22:00.000-07:002014-07-28T06:22:00.936-07:00I'm In Oaxaca This Week!¡Hola, from Oaxaca! I am here this week for my day job... you know, that thing I do when I am not cooking, quilting, stitching and playing tennis.<br />
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The city of Oaxaca is about 300 miles South of Mexico City, and is the capital of the state Oaxaca. It is in the mountains, about 5100 feet above sea level, and was founded in 1532!<br />
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My flight arrived on Sunday morning, and since my day job doesn't kick in until Monday, I spent some time exploring the town around my hotel.<br />
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This is <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times, '‘Times New Roman’', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">Niños</span> Heroes, the road outside my hotel. They were having a marathon the morning I showed up, so there were lots of runners on the road!<br />
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This is one of the roads and walls featuring the green stone that is indigenous to this area.<br />
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There are lots of these small plazas and parks around...<br />
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This one is on Calle Macedonio Alcala, which I was strolling along on my way to find the Santo Domingo de Guzman church.<br />
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I encountered a street fair with lots of artisans showing their wares...<br />
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And I finally found the cathedral! This church was started in 1555 and finished in 1566.<br />
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The square in front of the church housed some pretty amazing plants... and I love the trees in the background.<br />
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I showed up in time for the afternoon services, and they were beautiful. I don't speak Spanish, so I really have no idea what was said... but I really enjoyed it anyway!<br />
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The ceilings were pretty amazing.<br />
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This is a brief history of the church... if you can read it. :)<br />
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And this is one of the private rooms dedicated to the Virgin.<br />
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This is the back door. I would like a back door like that in my house. What do you think?<br />
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These pictures were taken from my hotel room. This is my view. :) The structure you see above is th<span style="font-family: inherit;">e <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">Guelaguetza Auditorium. The marathon was finishing there, and there is a big cultural celebration there this week.</span></span><br />
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I will post more when I have a chance to enjoy more of the city!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-78617795774721972342014-07-27T17:55:00.000-07:002014-07-27T17:55:40.788-07:00A Work in Progress: Pattern Testing for Cora's Quilts new Diana PatternHello everyone! If you are wondering why I have been so quiet lately, it is because I have way too many Works In Progress. I know... you are thinking "doesn't that mean you should be blogging more?" But no. Not so much. Because then I would have to admit to all the unfinished projects I have, and that is no good. No good at all. :)<br />
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But here I am, fessing up to another one. I have been pattern testing for <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a> again. You know how I enjoy that! I am giving you just a super-tiny sneak peak, I won't even show you all the fabric yet, but you are going to LOVE this when I am done. You will. You just wait and see!<br />
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This one is called <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/2014/07/introducing-diana.html" target="_blank">"Diana"</a> and is now available on her <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/user/708459/pattern-store?_ct=fhevybu-ikrdql-fqjjuhdijehu" target="_blank">pattern shop</a>.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-33718989134851277332014-07-15T10:36:00.001-07:002014-07-15T10:36:27.399-07:00A Beautiful Day at Mt. TaborMike and I spent an amazing day at Mt. Tabor with my sister and her family for a birthday recently, and I wanted to share with you. For those of you in the Portland, OR area, Mt. Tabor is a fantastic park in SE Portland, and also home to several of Portland's reservoirs. The views from the top are amazing, and they have a fantastic playground for the kids, too. There are several tennis courts available, and the cyclists and street luge-ers abound! I apologize for the quality of the photos, but these were all taken with my ancient iPhone, since I forgot my camera. :) Just another sign of getting older...<br />
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Truly impressive views to downtown Portland.<br />
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The boys, taking a brief rest after a crazy uphill climb. I did mention that it's called "Mt. Tabor", right?<br />
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Reney up a tree...<br />
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Orry as far up the tree as his little legs could get him.<br />
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The whole crew up a tree, even my sister!<br />
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For you fitness fanatics, there are some serious steps at Mt. Tabor. You can definitely get your workout on by running these!<br />
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Mike and Brigitta getting a core and triceps workout on the swings. Playgrounds are great exercise, you know!<br />
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The boys, practicing their driving skills. I am not sure why the tallest one is in the back, since the two driving are both too small to see over the steering wheels!<br />
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Mike on the seesaw with Enzo. Just for the record, this is an amazing squat workout when one party is significantly heavier than the other party.<br />
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But Enzo was certainly having a good time!<br />
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I recommend you check out Mt. Tabor if you have never been... a beautiful place to be in the next couple of weeks with our weather. :) Have a great day, everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-83702235229052698292014-06-22T22:26:00.004-07:002014-06-22T22:26:24.734-07:00Spring Sampler Block #9 - RamblerHello everyone! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. The weather here was phenomenal, and I got to spend the last few days playing a National Mother/Daughter tennis tournament with my Mom! We got taken to school a bit, but it is always a good time, and a huge privilege for me to be able to play with my mom. Some day in the future we won't be able to do this anymore, and that will make me really sad. So although we didn't win, I am super proud of her!<br />
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I also managed to get some sewing done this weekend: block #9 of the Spring Sampler quilt from <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a>. This block is called "Rambler" and has a few more flying geese to play with!<br />
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I got some more of those pinks in that I love, and just look how all the blocks have come together!<br />
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Now I just need to sew another 4 blocks, turn them on point, put the sashing in, baste, quilt, bind... and we're done! :) I can't wait to show you my progress in the next week or so!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-69721184026349535862014-06-20T12:36:00.001-07:002014-06-20T12:36:27.609-07:00Paleo Sweet and Spicy ChickenHappy Friday, everyone! The sun is out here and it has been a beautiful couple of days in the Pacific Northwest. I haven't been spending as much time in the kitchen as I normally do because I have been out enjoying this wonderful weather, but I do have a recipe that I want to share with you that will allow you to get it in the oven, and then go sit outside in the sun until it is done! Wear sunscreen, of course. I highly encourage practicing safe sun-bathing.<div>
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So this recipe is a little spicy, from the serrano peppers, and a little sweet from the tomatoes and basil, and the combination is really nice... a traditional Italian flavor with a little kick at the end! This recipe is easy, comes together quickly, and the toughest part is tearing basil leaves. What more can you ask for? </div>
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<h3>
Paleo Sweet and Spicy Chicken</h3>
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Ingredients:</h4>
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Chicken thighs (8 equals about 2 lbs or so)</div>
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1 Pint of Cherry or Grape Tomatoes</div>
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2 Serrano Chilies, sliced</div>
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Fresh Basil Leaves</div>
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2 Tbsp Olive Oil</div>
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Sea Salt</div>
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Fresh Ground Black Pepper</div>
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Directions:</h4>
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place the chicken thighs in a 9x13 baking dish. Pour the tomatoes in an around them. Sprinkle the sliced chilies over the top of the chicken thighs. Tear up the basil leaves and sprinkle over the top. Drizzle the olive oil over everything, and think add salt and pepper to taste.</div>
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Bake uncovered for 45 minutes at 425 degrees.</div>
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The chilies and basil leaves turn dark, but the flavor is fantastic, so make sure you get plenty on your plate! This recipe could easily be adapted for a foil packet on the grill, or even in the crockpot. And I am sure you can experiment with the chilies for different flavors. For those of you who can eat cheese, this would be amazing with some whole milk mozzarella melted on it.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-85190153829736896982014-06-16T11:57:00.002-07:002014-06-16T11:57:47.349-07:00Spring Sampler Block #8I am happy to share my bright new block for the Spring Sampler quilt-along with <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a> this week. It is the perfect week for a happy new block because it is really grey and crappy outside. Sorry, Mother Nature, but I calls it like I sees it. Grey. And Crappy.<br />
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But see... here is a bright and happy quilt block to make the day seem less grey.<br />
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And I found a wrinkle in my makeshift design wall that needs ironing... I suppose I should take the design wall off the wall before attempting to iron that one out? The block isn't laying quite straight on the wall because of that pesky wrinkle. Sorry.<br />
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But here is the crew: all 8 blocks so far. One more to go to finish the wall-hanging size. But I am going for the bigger version, so I will be making some more blocks. Repeats of a couple of them using different fabrics... should be really pretty! Stay tuned for block 9... it should be coming out next week!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-5933187539340886322014-06-12T11:25:00.002-07:002014-06-12T11:25:31.486-07:00Annual Stephanie Inn TripEvery year our group of ladies heads for Cannon Beach to spend a few days at <a href="http://www.stephanieinn.com/" target="_blank">Stephanie Inn </a>, walking on the beach, eating amazing food, and enjoying all the things that the Stephanie Inn has to offer.<br />
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We always start out our trip with a little wine tasting:<br />
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Our first stop was Duck Pond Cellars. Look at those ladies (Mom, Penny and Donna) with their matching shirts!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOnOgoCH50pcpetfFF9WPkDpCMc_DaOTfyVXamcZ6cyccr6yL05n3bs-sKQoBXF0nsdHvRGTRR-igvAMfH1h0hfRSJn9ZUd_wxcku7raas02mEPKiTGiM_hxXqAbz4DIxB1rcir94Oqk/s1600/LaChini+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOnOgoCH50pcpetfFF9WPkDpCMc_DaOTfyVXamcZ6cyccr6yL05n3bs-sKQoBXF0nsdHvRGTRR-igvAMfH1h0hfRSJn9ZUd_wxcku7raas02mEPKiTGiM_hxXqAbz4DIxB1rcir94Oqk/s1600/LaChini+1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mom and Penny at LaChini winery.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTxkEqGdbjQWXOrpqhb7WHGOJIAbbwwV9PggS6xm6Xczb87vJ78nOzJQjrSH8cm2REdWaunLHLtq_PDB-QrYng-2__VfLQqXF3nwrS1tbqEje11tLAh59plBdsHe9VZis-HpL52nDtfM/s1600/Stoller+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTxkEqGdbjQWXOrpqhb7WHGOJIAbbwwV9PggS6xm6Xczb87vJ78nOzJQjrSH8cm2REdWaunLHLtq_PDB-QrYng-2__VfLQqXF3nwrS1tbqEje11tLAh59plBdsHe9VZis-HpL52nDtfM/s1600/Stoller+2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cheers, from Stoller Vineyards! This place was pretty cool... the tasting room is 100% self-sufficient, with a large array of solar panels, a green roof, and some water catchment. Anything they don't use in the tasting room, they send to the actual winery, so it is about 30% sustainable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBx7edBIbYi2nms_r9rdeP7y4wYVwBCG6n8MhVK2XD1Sr6xaKT0TvUEZfMFY_ZdfhCtbyjpY6tj44SBJXdRv6sGTh6B_9XLbgeMyDQPyeSnoDbBURoiGlQgfvMW6jXvAKG0psyt5OjIQs/s1600/Stoller+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBx7edBIbYi2nms_r9rdeP7y4wYVwBCG6n8MhVK2XD1Sr6xaKT0TvUEZfMFY_ZdfhCtbyjpY6tj44SBJXdRv6sGTh6B_9XLbgeMyDQPyeSnoDbBURoiGlQgfvMW6jXvAKG0psyt5OjIQs/s1600/Stoller+7.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
Donna hears no evil, Penny sees no evil, and I speak no evil. Really. I swear. :)<br />
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Once we are done enjoying the fruits of Oregon wine country (literally!), we continue on to Stephanie Inn. It is located on Cannon Beach. And I mean, right on the beach. </div>
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This is the view from the balcony of our room.<br />
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We like to take walks on the beach, and we can walk all the way into downtown Cannon Beach from Stephanie Inn on the beach. We don't see a single road until we hit downtown.<br />
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The weather was perfect while we were there. It was about 60 to 65 degrees, a couple of hours of sun in the afternoons, and no rain. The mist kept rising up off the ocean and I liked the way it made Haystack Rock look like it was floating.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtPWbnr3eJ9RWetqNA-IOyuZh-1lHRJw48LjLKtfgT3CWpqzbyW8Hd8V6Ape2zO7SVxiqkGclkBFtKSCIDc1ZVcEWXudVWWM-Pi5W3ll_fna0iQTGxclWeAvUZ10Z3SwC48vkfY11v1E/s1600/Cannon+Beach+13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtPWbnr3eJ9RWetqNA-IOyuZh-1lHRJw48LjLKtfgT3CWpqzbyW8Hd8V6Ape2zO7SVxiqkGclkBFtKSCIDc1ZVcEWXudVWWM-Pi5W3ll_fna0iQTGxclWeAvUZ10Z3SwC48vkfY11v1E/s1600/Cannon+Beach+13.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haystack Rock</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKctoQOuoBY-Vd0eAbXem6Km6s89zH3YrqglVsMcJCleTuQCQBIrfJ85fvKXIwWIPxnDIxqLcKVtL4jXsJBf1p8Yhv5rF5k6A8zhl3Jrp3IX6zTwQfWzcVhfSRcAhEq5EjF8ja8vlNXdI/s1600/Cannon+Beach+26.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKctoQOuoBY-Vd0eAbXem6Km6s89zH3YrqglVsMcJCleTuQCQBIrfJ85fvKXIwWIPxnDIxqLcKVtL4jXsJBf1p8Yhv5rF5k6A8zhl3Jrp3IX6zTwQfWzcVhfSRcAhEq5EjF8ja8vlNXdI/s1600/Cannon+Beach+26.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now isn't this the life?</td></tr>
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We also like to make sure that we get some good food while we are there, and that is not hard to do at the Stephanie Inn! Even with my food allergies, they were able to make sure that we all got some amazing food and drink. We dressed up for dinner one night, and it was fantastic!<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9UjgpidiKiPd9I17r8f0EVEIHbpwbDjTNM123qlenkhIllc-ukgYLcTnIs0E-bJ3ovtroGZ_3V6Y-AOjuf5JvolD7Rn05TRZz_vwvayUxtJU3hNQ73k3VoRjbXa_wi9F4A4SJsihBWc/s1600/Heidi+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9UjgpidiKiPd9I17r8f0EVEIHbpwbDjTNM123qlenkhIllc-ukgYLcTnIs0E-bJ3ovtroGZ_3V6Y-AOjuf5JvolD7Rn05TRZz_vwvayUxtJU3hNQ73k3VoRjbXa_wi9F4A4SJsihBWc/s1600/Heidi+4.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4TXz7equDrgg91cXAYgqwo6qKfFYWYQfR4uYtSv7eb1sEPQxr1rWEzx21KpIl6YgPeXEfEDBtSJtUACzMt-N52Pff-B1sCz_7ufW1107VGkF8Z1SU-Pvr3PH_0PclSJ4XZvaTjc0RCI/s1600/SI+Dinner+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4TXz7equDrgg91cXAYgqwo6qKfFYWYQfR4uYtSv7eb1sEPQxr1rWEzx21KpIl6YgPeXEfEDBtSJtUACzMt-N52Pff-B1sCz_7ufW1107VGkF8Z1SU-Pvr3PH_0PclSJ4XZvaTjc0RCI/s1600/SI+Dinner+5.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJDnqgYV8L1vpagU4Ao1i3QspERgJfDRD3fEcCHfFYrGyFwYIAnkV4Ca3rgYSiL8QWU_bPd0stxa1HKU8NpsOnB6qTXoD7DWVCcfFVhi1zrxjK49LLXUEWKESl8j_-uvYKPEics0RdXU/s1600/SI+Dinner+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJDnqgYV8L1vpagU4Ao1i3QspERgJfDRD3fEcCHfFYrGyFwYIAnkV4Ca3rgYSiL8QWU_bPd0stxa1HKU8NpsOnB6qTXoD7DWVCcfFVhi1zrxjK49LLXUEWKESl8j_-uvYKPEics0RdXU/s1600/SI+Dinner+8.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Donna</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgphiYBBcd_bVPOf1ej7wANSL-RVcY6WTbKFUPsxxdLdt3aADkte68WbeUZlpA5iF_Ka-3xqqnWfCvqCMBG1TmTQSBK6_kLHy2cEpfRjioYyv3j7_V-ZyHsRiGZL1TvrM_eFN1-TeTlzw8/s1600/SI+Dinner+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgphiYBBcd_bVPOf1ej7wANSL-RVcY6WTbKFUPsxxdLdt3aADkte68WbeUZlpA5iF_Ka-3xqqnWfCvqCMBG1TmTQSBK6_kLHy2cEpfRjioYyv3j7_V-ZyHsRiGZL1TvrM_eFN1-TeTlzw8/s1600/SI+Dinner+9.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penny</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYyUzrwewHS_0RIWvtspppXD9ke_M68uD3qMJGWCfDl0p18llexZqblxHnZnQs_9vFL5-QSkY0sROnSOPrZW6P0ICGC4oVVSJ5HhbxFnxz7PoHOgWTOTvemOwZSQ4wHosLlwn986_2TI/s1600/SI+Dinner+30.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYyUzrwewHS_0RIWvtspppXD9ke_M68uD3qMJGWCfDl0p18llexZqblxHnZnQs_9vFL5-QSkY0sROnSOPrZW6P0ICGC4oVVSJ5HhbxFnxz7PoHOgWTOTvemOwZSQ4wHosLlwn986_2TI/s1600/SI+Dinner+30.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole gang!</td></tr>
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We started with salads:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now I will be honest and say I am not normally a huge fan of salads. They tend to get a bit boring for me, especially since I don't get cheese, or dressing, or croutons, or any of the fun stuff. But this was a truly incredible salad. The onions on top were dredged in rice flour and then fried. It had lime oil on it... it was fantastic!<br />
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I didn't get the scallop starter because of my shellfish allergy, but as you can see, it was pretty fantastic looking!<br />
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The soup was a roasted tomato with fresh basil and gorgonzola cream. I didn't get that either, but at least I got to smell it!<br />
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For the main course, we had the marinated rack of lamb. It was served with creamy polenta, roasted beets, braised greens, and garlic Dijon reduction sauce.<br />
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My plate had fingerling potatoes in place of the polenta due to my dairy allergy.<br />
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For dessert, they served me the most wonderful fresh berries!<br />
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The other ladies got a Lemon Swedish Cream, that was silky vanilla bean almond custard swirled with lemon curd, shortbread cookie, and fresh berries.<br />
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Doesn't that look great?!?</div>
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The following day we decided that we really needed to work off that dinner, so we went for a hike out at Hug Point State Park. This park is actually more beach, but it has some really interesting features. It has caves, a waterfall, part of the original stagecoach trail, and they also happened to be filming a pilot for a TV show on Vikings while we were there. So I got some random photos of the set and vikings.</div>
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When the tide is in, there are parts of the beach that are completely covered in water, and these large caves have formed. They have some amazing colors inside!<br />
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The viking set was right over by two caves I wanted to visit, and the large waterfall, so we had to steer clear of that area, but I still got some pictures.<br />
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Random viking... wonder if he is someone famous?<br />
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The viking set was actually pretty neat, and it was kind of fun to watch them film for a bit.<br />
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This is one of the caves that has formed from the water coming in at high tide.<br />
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We needed to pose in front of it because it was cool. You know how these things are.<br />
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This is the old stagecoach road I mentioned earlier. As you walk along it, you can still see the areas where the wheel had grooved ruts into the rock. This section is also covered completely in water when the tide is high, so you have to time this hike a little carefully!<br />
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This old stagecoach road actually joins the two beaches together, but make sure you watch the tide table, you don't want to get stuck on the side that is nowhere near your car!</div>
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As you can see, we made it back just in time. The tide was just starting to come in, and already it was getting to the point where you needed to wade to make it on to the trail. This is a great picture, though, because you can see those ruts I was talking about.<br />
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This has to be the saddest looking wheel I have ever seen. But at least all that sea life now have a lovely home!<br />
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This guy was stalking me, so I took a picture to have in case I needed to identify him in a line-up at a later point.<br />
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And it's these ladies again. The "see no evil" one is peeking. I wonder what that means?!?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqbhW-CpnlcAXW4EdYeZB3PFMwlCwtWhaDNuckb7vH4BZj8j-0zyPP1nPReoDzLgX9aK7d6vNzF3d5AGW9jRkczSW33_JF-v5Xl2HZVG9AWSc2TBf9kNKtHcH8YFl3pS7FmRw7-nS6yk/s1600/Hug+Point+41.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqbhW-CpnlcAXW4EdYeZB3PFMwlCwtWhaDNuckb7vH4BZj8j-0zyPP1nPReoDzLgX9aK7d6vNzF3d5AGW9jRkczSW33_JF-v5Xl2HZVG9AWSc2TBf9kNKtHcH8YFl3pS7FmRw7-nS6yk/s1600/Hug+Point+41.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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When we came back from our walk, the cast and crew were at lunch so I got a better shot of the waterfall.</div>
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Hug Point State Park is a neat little place if you get the chance to visit. It is about 3 miles south of Tolovana Park and Cannon Beach on Highway 101.</div>
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Hope you enjoyed our trip... I know we did!<br /><div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-88587531618894273362014-06-09T15:36:00.001-07:002014-06-09T15:36:10.254-07:00Paleo Pumpkin Cream Chicken Casserole So the other day I asked Mike what he would like for dinner. He said "A casserole. With chicken." Well that one got me thinking. See, I am used to the type of casseroles that I have had for the last 30-something years of my life: pasta, cheese, cream of chicken soup... all those things that I can't eat anymore. So this request was a little bit of a challenge. What could I make that satisfied Mike's desire for a casserole with chicken, was within my dietary requirements, and tasted good enough for Mike to eat, even without cheese?<br />
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I went on an explore of the interwebs and picked up a couple of ideas. The one I decided on was from <a href="http://www.paleomg.com/">www.paleomg.com</a>, and she called it Paleo Pumpkin Cream Chicken Casserole.<br />
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Here is her photo:<br />
<img alt="pumpkin casserole" src="http://media.paleomg.com/2011/10/pumpkin-casserole-610x300.jpg" /><br />
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I apologize for not having photos of my own... I was skeptical that Mike would eat this, but not only did he eat it, he actually said he liked it! I think this recipe would also be really good with a richer meat like lamb, if you wanted to try that. I did make a couple of changes from the original, because that is how I insist on doing things, so my recipe is below:<br />
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<span class="fn" style="font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Paleo Pumpkin Cream Chicken Casserole</span><span style="font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><b>Ingredients</b></div>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1.5 lbs chicken breasts, chopped into 1 inch cubes (you could also use shredded or ground chicken for this, or even ground lamb or other game-y meat would taste good)</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 medium sized spaghetti squash</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 head cauliflower, chopped</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 can pumpkin puree</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 can canned coconut milk (I used about 2/3 of the can for this recipe. If you use the whole can, the sauce is a little runny, but it still tastes great!)</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">4-5 garlic cloves, minced</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 yellow onion, diced</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">2 tablespoons olive oil</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 teaspoon garlic powder</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 teaspoon onion powder</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">½ teaspoon cinnamon</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">¼ teaspoon nutmeg</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">¼ teaspoon ground coriander</li>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 50%; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; padding: 0px;">salt and pepper, to taste</li>
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<span style="font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: bold;">Instructions</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: inherit;">Preheat oven to 425 degrees. </span><span style="line-height: inherit;">Chop the cauliflower and put it in a baking dish, tossed with a little bit of olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste. Then cut your spaghetti squash in half, using a spoon to scoop out the seeds and extra threads, and set it face down on a baking pan. I used my silpat for this, it is perfect! </span><span style="line-height: inherit;">Add the cauliflower and spaghetti squash to the oven, side by side if possible, to roast for around 25 minutes. (Depending how big your spaghetti squash is, the cauliflower made roast a little quicker, but mine cooked at the same time) You will know your spaghetti squash is cooked when you can poke the outside skin and it gives a bit.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: inherit;">While the squash and cauliflower are cooking, it’s time to cook up your chicken. Use a large saucepan over medium high heat. </span><span style="line-height: inherit;">Add olive oil to it and once the olive oil is starting to get hot, add the minced garlic. Once the garlic begins to smell, add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, around 5 minutes or so.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: inherit;">Add your chopped chicken to the cooking onions, cover and let steam for around 5 minutes. </span><span style="line-height: inherit;">Once the chicken is almost cooked through, add the can of pumpkin, the coconut milk, and spices directly to the pan. Mix until well combined. Taste to see if you need any more spices or salt.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: inherit;">Once the squash and cauliflower is done cooking, and the chicken mixture is heated up, de-thread the spaghetti squash with a fork, running the fork the opposite way of the threads. </span><span style="line-height: inherit;">Add your spaghetti squash threads, roasted cauliflower, and chicken saucey mixture to a 9×11 glass baking dish and add dish to the oven under the broiler. Cook for about 5 minutes, getting a little dark on the top.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: inherit;">Remove from oven and let sit for about 5-10 minutes to help the sauce thicken up. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: inherit;">Then, as she says on <a href="http://www.paleomg.com/">www.paleomg.com</a>, "...eat the crap of that deliciousness".</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-41949479661882066802014-06-08T12:29:00.002-07:002014-06-08T12:29:13.610-07:00Spring Sampler Block #7 - Friendship QuiltHello everyone! I am sharing block number 7 from the <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a> Spring Sampler quilt-along this week.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7xZKQ4-Oxtgx6TigaiP1m35aCAgL-_t1HWu3bH5epv8C5J6m2Zne5HauKZOSIrbBFSyUpCoWEwd7mP6PIa6VO4VbjLWB6ESigx20kkhO7hujcNU7iogblKYe9EFBegcgmOFNkog3zUU/s1600/Spring+Sampler+7+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7xZKQ4-Oxtgx6TigaiP1m35aCAgL-_t1HWu3bH5epv8C5J6m2Zne5HauKZOSIrbBFSyUpCoWEwd7mP6PIa6VO4VbjLWB6ESigx20kkhO7hujcNU7iogblKYe9EFBegcgmOFNkog3zUU/s1600/Spring+Sampler+7+(1).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This block comes together pretty quickly, and I really like how the different colors are bringing all the blocks together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7zaehQgbX12ZVDgdr3Ba_geH3NsJvf6bCdbJUpxRqowvKhfA5Sg89rqgVfPUAGXkFRJ1jPG5WV4GUCimEhGipBnQLqWQeSIUehcRIVqNSZs4zlfupzHR99RI7cag92cvUPRhYkzD2wQ/s1600/Spring+Sampler+1-7+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7zaehQgbX12ZVDgdr3Ba_geH3NsJvf6bCdbJUpxRqowvKhfA5Sg89rqgVfPUAGXkFRJ1jPG5WV4GUCimEhGipBnQLqWQeSIUehcRIVqNSZs4zlfupzHR99RI7cag92cvUPRhYkzD2wQ/s1600/Spring+Sampler+1-7+(2).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are the seven blocks together so far. Two to go for the wall-hanging size. I think I am going to be an over-achiever, though, and go for the lap size, so I am going to get to make extras of some of these blocks. I think block seven will be one of them. And probably blocks 5 and 6, too. I think I will use different fabrics in them, though, so it doesn't look like I have repeats. This is going to be way too much fun!<br />
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I hope at least some of you are following along!<br />
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And for those peeps that like recipes - stay tuned! I have a paleo casserole coming your way, and Mikey liked it! I also have a post about the annual jaunt to Cannon Beach and the stay at Stephanie Inn, so I will "talk" to you all soon!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8354862398867216412.post-18349761087116309372014-05-26T09:18:00.000-07:002014-05-26T09:18:47.355-07:00Spring Sampler Block #6 - Temple CourtI have another block to share from the <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts Spring Sampler</a> quilt-along this week. This is block 6 of 9, and it is titled "Temple Court".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_bAh3_Z8-_xye09SuzBxzFv7cP3x2BATqprSiMOu4ZEjjpAQjUaVivGDUeELDgHKfaTmtd4h65MdS05MGiLkEO4q3o7a-3FBKcGQtviuI5yR4ToonN97UggstwXIho1OUQ_SWjxEcbL0/s1600/Spring+Sampler+Block+6a+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_bAh3_Z8-_xye09SuzBxzFv7cP3x2BATqprSiMOu4ZEjjpAQjUaVivGDUeELDgHKfaTmtd4h65MdS05MGiLkEO4q3o7a-3FBKcGQtviuI5yR4ToonN97UggstwXIho1OUQ_SWjxEcbL0/s1600/Spring+Sampler+Block+6a+(1).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Only a small number of flying geese in this one, but I really like how all the colors are coming together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPOwwLIyX1oY7_QVwx_LMwkcBXIbCEN8CUqZMSDgoAFrPydlAkF7voyfO1rQAC-y7XWT4HItFbUKAxjk0lQWaOUTMYlZIKSgebJaxwuG-OjszGwTKAU4sS-4JztflCOL7WFb318OI_JI/s1600/Spring+Sampler+Blocks+1-6a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPOwwLIyX1oY7_QVwx_LMwkcBXIbCEN8CUqZMSDgoAFrPydlAkF7voyfO1rQAC-y7XWT4HItFbUKAxjk0lQWaOUTMYlZIKSgebJaxwuG-OjszGwTKAU4sS-4JztflCOL7WFb318OI_JI/s1600/Spring+Sampler+Blocks+1-6a.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are all six blocks so far, proudly displayed on my new design wall. It sounds fancy, doesn't it? Design Wall.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoAVNBFwtm_PFsRZzudWtHaDY1XOFhluWzZx74oBLgRMBiklxibyGQKLFmopYO0i3ik2nRmTg_TvI0w4m27s1zKGfP3HyYe1_Sh4D2ORJgTPZEphuxLLL1MM6cN4Hys8CHq2z9n1LD50/s1600/Spring+Sampler+Block+6b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoAVNBFwtm_PFsRZzudWtHaDY1XOFhluWzZx74oBLgRMBiklxibyGQKLFmopYO0i3ik2nRmTg_TvI0w4m27s1zKGfP3HyYe1_Sh4D2ORJgTPZEphuxLLL1MM6cN4Hys8CHq2z9n1LD50/s1600/Spring+Sampler+Block+6b.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This material works great because I can just tack it up on the wall, and my blocks stick to it. I don't need to pin them or anything. And it has a nice white, neutral background for displaying my works in progress.<br />
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They do look nice up there, don't they? So I will let you in on my secret... it's just an old picnic table tablecloth. You know, the kind with the vinyl, easy-wipe-up on one side, and the felty stuff on the other. I think I paid less than $2.00 for it. How's that for DIY? And as soon as you are done marveling at my thriftiness, head on over to <a href="http://www.corasquilts.com/" target="_blank">Cora's Quilts</a> and link up your block!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10398567296215341545noreply@blogger.com0