tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59470919099694603312024-03-13T14:56:06.702-04:00Serenity CoveSerenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.comBlogger197125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-670378510214348442016-02-28T15:15:00.000-05:002016-03-04T11:08:28.759-05:00Melt-in-your-Mouth Potatoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uEQD4ol2xfg/VtNLFbMDYlI/AAAAAAAAL3E/vKKRj1z07oI/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uEQD4ol2xfg/VtNLFbMDYlI/AAAAAAAAL3E/vKKRj1z07oI/s400/005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wow, its been over a year since I've blogged. My intention was to take a break for a month or two to get some much needed tasks done around the house, painting etc.</div>
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I never realized it would be this difficult to get back into blogging but I came up with one excuse after the other why I just didn't have time and before I knew it a whole year had gone by. As much as I wish I could get back to blogging every week, realistically I know that is not going to happen. At least not at this point in my life. Its all about priority's. </div>
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Anyway, I am a huge potato lover and this recipe is too good not to share. In fact I made them twice in one week, we loved them so much. And they really do almost melt in your mouth.</div>
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I highly recommend Yukon Gold's but I imagine Red Potatoes would be okay as well.</div>
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In the recipe I like using Tastefully Simple Spinach Herb Mix. If this is not available in your area you could add a combination of parsley flakes, onion flakes and dill to the thyme.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Melt-in-your-Mouth Potatoes</span></div>
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2 1/2-3 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes, Peeled</div>
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4 Tbls butter, melted</div>
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1 tsp dried thyme. Here I substitute Spinach Herb Mix by Tastefully Simple. Spinach Herb mix consists of Spinach Flakes, onion, dill and garlic. I LOVE this stuff!</div>
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1/2 tsp salt</div>
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1/4 tsp pepper</div>
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1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth</div>
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1/2 tsp minced garlic</div>
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Directions:</div>
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1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place oven rack in upper-middle position in oven.</div>
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2. Combine butter, thyme/spinach herb mix, salt and pepper in a medium bowl</div>
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3. Slice off ends of potatoes so they are flat on ends and cut potatoes into 1 inch slices.</div>
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4.Toss potatoes in butter mixture and arrange in a single layer in a 9x13 inch pan.</div>
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5. Roast for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each potato and roast for another 15 minutes.</div>
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6. Remove from oven and flip potatoes again then add the chicken broth and garlic. (See note on bottom)</div>
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7. Roast another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and sauce has reduced slightly.</div>
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8. Serve the potatoes with the sauce drizzled over the top.</div>
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Note: Recommend using a metal pan. If using a glass pan make sure chicken broth isn't cold. You don't want to shatter your pan!</div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/melt-in-your-mouth-potatoes" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a></div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2016/03/sour-cream-pound-cake-weekend-potluck.html" target="_blank">The Country Cook</a>: <a href="http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2016/03/foodie-friday-and-everything-else.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a></div>
Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-87579523812291387772014-12-12T14:52:00.001-05:002014-12-12T15:02:17.622-05:00Cranberry Orange Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1MYl1-l3iiw/VIs0QvtBKPI/AAAAAAAAL0Q/qS1a3Zz0tuE/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1MYl1-l3iiw/VIs0QvtBKPI/AAAAAAAAL0Q/qS1a3Zz0tuE/s1600/008.jpg" height="460" width="640" /></a></div>
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These muffins are so delicious and full of flavor, I think they would be perfect for breakfast on Christmas morning. Actually, they are good anytime but the taste of cranberry and orange just screams Christmas to me.</div>
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I would probably make these this day before and pop them in the microwave on Christmas morning because who has time to be baking on Christmas morning? Certainly not me!</div>
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You can substitute blueberries if you want blueberry muffins, and I have made it into a coffee cake as well.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Jj2h3gnv0U/VIs_72MtV9I/AAAAAAAAL0g/6qHhpjRF6Jk/s1600/021r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Jj2h3gnv0U/VIs_72MtV9I/AAAAAAAAL0g/6qHhpjRF6Jk/s1600/021r.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>
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2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour</div>
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1 1/4 cups sugar</div>
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1 1/2 tsp baking powder</div>
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3/4 tsp baking soda</div>
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1/2 tsp salt</div>
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2 Tbsp grated orange rind</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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1/2 cup vegetable oil</div>
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1 1/4 cups buttermilk</div>
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1 1/2 tsp vanilla</div>
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1 1/2 cups cranberries fresh or frozen. If frozen do not thaw. May substitute blueberries.</div>
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Directions:</div>
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.</div>
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1. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and orange rind.</div>
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2. in small bowl combine eggs, oil, buttermilk and vanilla.</div>
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3. Gently stir the cranberries into the egg mixture.</div>
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4. Add the egg mixture all at once into the flour mixture stirring just until the dry ingredients are moistened. About 15 stirs around the bowl. Do not over mix!</div>
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5. Fill lined muffin tins 3/4 full and top with streusel if desired. </div>
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6. Bake until the tops are lightly browned approximately 13-15 for mini muffins or 18-20 minutes for regular muffins. </div>
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7. Remove from pans and cool on wire rack.</div>
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Streusel: I use a basic recipe of 6 Tbsp flour, 4 Tbsp white sugar, 2 Tbsp Crisco</div>
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If desired, omit the streusel and glaze the tops with a powered sugar glaze. </div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/cranberry-orange-muffins" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a></div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2014/12/foodie-friday-december-11.html" target="_blank"> Foodie Friday</a>: <a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2014/12/weekend-potluck-148.html" target="_blank">Country Cook</a></div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-17553129172041672682014-10-16T10:09:00.000-04:002014-10-16T10:09:47.249-04:00Fall Scenes from Holmes County<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b61IKwNOTWE/VD3PArQ6naI/AAAAAAAALvw/OSpBmscMMSE/s1600/414f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b61IKwNOTWE/VD3PArQ6naI/AAAAAAAALvw/OSpBmscMMSE/s1600/414f.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/top-10/places-to-see-autumn-leaves/" target="_blank">National Geographic</a> just named Holmes County, Ohio as one of the most scenic spots in the world to see fall leaves, ranking third, behind Sonoma County, California, and Northern New Mexico.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qqJKU3KeqcQ/VD3S3s_D9_I/AAAAAAAALv8/7XYxEIFgbic/s1600/412f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qqJKU3KeqcQ/VD3S3s_D9_I/AAAAAAAALv8/7XYxEIFgbic/s1600/412f.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't think the colors are as spectacular as in previous years<a href="http://serenitycove2.blogspot.com/2012/10/beautiful-fall-foliage.html" target="_blank"> here</a> or <a href="http://serenitycove2.blogspot.com/2012/10/fall-color-continues.html" target="_blank">here,</a> but it might be a little early. We just had our first frost so maybe the best is yet to come.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcigsG8gvnY/VD3V_PYQ5pI/AAAAAAAALwI/R_xb7LVtfaU/s1600/418f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcigsG8gvnY/VD3V_PYQ5pI/AAAAAAAALwI/R_xb7LVtfaU/s1600/418f.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have lived here all my life and take this area for granted, but when I take time to slow down from life and just take in the sights around me, it is truly beautiful and I feel blessed to live here.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfjjHVR82R4/VD3XSjIxbYI/AAAAAAAALwU/Ug3Cbr7-1Ok/s1600/417f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfjjHVR82R4/VD3XSjIxbYI/AAAAAAAALwU/Ug3Cbr7-1Ok/s1600/417f.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div>
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This might have been the most colorful tree we saw.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8MKa4KcK4xQ/VD3XlP2lF_I/AAAAAAAALwc/o6PQyfRTTmk/s1600/419f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8MKa4KcK4xQ/VD3XlP2lF_I/AAAAAAAALwc/o6PQyfRTTmk/s1600/419f.jpg" height="444" width="640" /></a></div>
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Holmes County is known most of all for being the largest Amish settlement in the world. Scenes like this are an everyday occurrence.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwR8s4HABP0/VD3YUZpFNUI/AAAAAAAALwo/FqB8CVb2cEk/s1600/421f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwR8s4HABP0/VD3YUZpFNUI/AAAAAAAALwo/FqB8CVb2cEk/s1600/421f.jpg" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
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Holmes County has many, many miles of dirt roads and we love to see where each one takes us. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2efsxy6LiB4/VD3ZjQKP4nI/AAAAAAAALw0/Yw0DuGeOWas/s1600/429f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2efsxy6LiB4/VD3ZjQKP4nI/AAAAAAAALw0/Yw0DuGeOWas/s1600/429f.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKJzKacjCGc/VD3aFiSNjjI/AAAAAAAALw8/I5IyKAqZoJI/s1600/430f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKJzKacjCGc/VD3aFiSNjjI/AAAAAAAALw8/I5IyKAqZoJI/s1600/430f.jpg" height="470" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am very passionate about old abandoned buildings and when we came across this one I yelled....Stop! This is one of the most picturesque ones I have come across. </div>
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They may not look so pretty to some, but they are so full of history and stories, I wish it could tell me just one.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpOCicLoMDg/VD3gE-TuIII/AAAAAAAALxM/fyfxiiZU2h4/s1600/436f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpOCicLoMDg/VD3gE-TuIII/AAAAAAAALxM/fyfxiiZU2h4/s1600/436f.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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This home looks so empty and lonely. I'm sure it has stories to tell too.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dbXoFEhRhCI/VD3gd4KznKI/AAAAAAAALxU/0HdKBU-V2Mk/s1600/440f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dbXoFEhRhCI/VD3gd4KznKI/AAAAAAAALxU/0HdKBU-V2Mk/s1600/440f.jpg" height="458" width="640" /></a></div>
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We meandered along, from one country dirt road to another, some of them barely more than a cow path.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Na24W7TrgRQ/VD3hXaaIi2I/AAAAAAAALxk/m5FBCws6mbw/s1600/443f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Na24W7TrgRQ/VD3hXaaIi2I/AAAAAAAALxk/m5FBCws6mbw/s1600/443f.jpg" height="460" width="640" /></a></div>
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The only traffic we met was an occasional buggy. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gh8wIiFmqMA/VD3iS05DAiI/AAAAAAAALxw/yV2GzXyVQLE/s1600/446f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gh8wIiFmqMA/VD3iS05DAiI/AAAAAAAALxw/yV2GzXyVQLE/s1600/446f.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMkP0eNifqk/VD3g7XTZeRI/AAAAAAAALxc/xtaIH_s-UlI/s1600/442f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMkP0eNifqk/VD3g7XTZeRI/AAAAAAAALxc/xtaIH_s-UlI/s1600/442f.jpg" height="464" width="640" /></a></div>
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The one thing I love about our area is all the beautiful old barns. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ICwFLavBhA/VD3nY-wpgTI/AAAAAAAALyQ/dFOtgA-IPGU/s1600/461f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ICwFLavBhA/VD3nY-wpgTI/AAAAAAAALyQ/dFOtgA-IPGU/s1600/461f.jpg" height="449" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love the old ones with their faded wood and lopsided walls. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SexZXbndNYM/VD3nmaLieKI/AAAAAAAALyY/rQLNfnPrUIM/s1600/457f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SexZXbndNYM/VD3nmaLieKI/AAAAAAAALyY/rQLNfnPrUIM/s1600/457f.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
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The more run down and weathered, the more they appeal to me.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i3RLtTBST0/VD3py5TeRFI/AAAAAAAALyk/EVzN0LJrz5w/s1600/459f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i3RLtTBST0/VD3py5TeRFI/AAAAAAAALyk/EVzN0LJrz5w/s1600/459f.jpg" height="417" width="640" /></a>I even love the shabby doors and broken window panes.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UpnLbfNxItg/VD3j4eWvkyI/AAAAAAAALyE/etUkozUs6xM/s1600/4497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UpnLbfNxItg/VD3j4eWvkyI/AAAAAAAALyE/etUkozUs6xM/s1600/4497.jpg" height="444" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0gjdKIfg8Xs/VD3q8K20YuI/AAAAAAAALyw/pCRiE69hdxE/s1600/454f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0gjdKIfg8Xs/VD3q8K20YuI/AAAAAAAALyw/pCRiE69hdxE/s1600/454f.jpg" height="432" width="640" /></a></div>
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While some of our surrounding counties are very flat, Holmes County is known for it's rolling hills.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NkKs6SoKZBc/VD3r4jG6KJI/AAAAAAAALy8/0sNwuoclvfw/s1600/480f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NkKs6SoKZBc/VD3r4jG6KJI/AAAAAAAALy8/0sNwuoclvfw/s1600/480f.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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An old Amish School House, I assume no longer in use. Sometime I would like doing a post of just Amish School Houses. There are dozens of them in our county.</div>
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Our rolling hills open up to beautiful valleys.</div>
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The last farm we happened upon as we headed home, completely captivated me. All the buildings were painted white or red, but had the same aqua colored roofs. Just loved it!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0C0GB0irG70/VD3vx0NmD6I/AAAAAAAALzk/C-g7i0Y2OUE/s1600/489f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0C0GB0irG70/VD3vx0NmD6I/AAAAAAAALzk/C-g7i0Y2OUE/s1600/489f.jpg" height="417" width="640" /></a></div>
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I didn't notice until I put this photo on here, but I pretty sure the dog house on the far left is painted to match.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CGVBuvVCqvo/VD3wwEEmeFI/AAAAAAAALzw/GlosaBjuc3M/s1600/490f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CGVBuvVCqvo/VD3wwEEmeFI/AAAAAAAALzw/GlosaBjuc3M/s1600/490f.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></div>
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The buggy barn. </div>
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I couldn't find a good place to get a shot of the side of this but yes....it has an aqua roof. I hope I can find this place again because I would love to take some photos of a few buildings that I didn't get.</div>
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So while there wasn't that much fall color yet, I hope you enjoyed seeing a little bit of 'where I come from'.</div>
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<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-228078750904868682014-08-19T21:28:00.000-04:002014-08-19T21:28:12.811-04:00West Trip....the long road home.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well....here it's time for another cousins trip and I never got around to finishing last years trip! For the few people that still care....here are some highlights of last few days, which consisted of a lot of driving with a few stops here and there. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8pOJvRAL7gI/UtXrQessbEI/AAAAAAAAKw0/U8sS0M1peoM/s1600/securedownload1114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8pOJvRAL7gI/UtXrQessbEI/AAAAAAAAKw0/U8sS0M1peoM/s640/securedownload1114.jpg" height="466" width="640" /></a></div>
Continuing the long trip across Canada, day eleven was a driving day. We left Alberta and entered Saskatchewan. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmQlkdhqcmk/UtXtCvTVG_I/AAAAAAAAKxk/uRqXEUWmwLA/s1600/securedownload1111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmQlkdhqcmk/UtXtCvTVG_I/AAAAAAAAKxk/uRqXEUWmwLA/s640/securedownload1111.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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The country side was pretty, but a lot of the same. Prairies, farms, grain elevators, trains, etc.....mile after mile. Not at all how I envisioned Canada.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0sLm79zc0Jg/UtXr7Hpxb0I/AAAAAAAAKxE/TpX2FFPVd94/s1600/securedownload1112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0sLm79zc0Jg/UtXr7Hpxb0I/AAAAAAAAKxE/TpX2FFPVd94/s640/securedownload1112.jpg" height="496" width="640" /></a></div>
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I loved the cross in the sky. </div>
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I forget what this was. Sand or Salt? That's what happens when you wait this long to blog about a trip that happened a year ago.</div>
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Who knows what this is? We all said dandelion but it's the biggest one I have ever seen!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dpbn2CzDm1A/UtX3XpE39yI/AAAAAAAAKyE/trXsEg_-mv8/s1600/1621wt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dpbn2CzDm1A/UtX3XpE39yI/AAAAAAAAKyE/trXsEg_-mv8/s640/1621wt.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
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We spent the night in Regina, Saskatchewan at a Country Inn and Suites. </div>
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Day 12</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8LkWPnWFg-4/U_JtzYVvajI/AAAAAAAALN4/IFS-R88MFXE/s1600/IMG_1422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8LkWPnWFg-4/U_JtzYVvajI/AAAAAAAALN4/IFS-R88MFXE/s1600/IMG_1422.jpg" height="313" width="400" /></a></div>
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We toured the<a href="http://www.boissevain.ca/goodonmuseum/index.htm" target="_blank"> Irvin Goodon Wildlife Museum.</a> We were not allowed to take photographs here.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FYCG62yRPtA/U_J0eCw7wKI/AAAAAAAALOI/uVqnXi-pEl0/s1600/1627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FYCG62yRPtA/U_J0eCw7wKI/AAAAAAAALOI/uVqnXi-pEl0/s1600/1627.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The last stop before crossing the border back into the United States was the <a href="http://www.peacegarden.com/" target="_blank">International Peace Gardens.</a></div>
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The 3.65 square mile garden is located on the border of North Dakota and province of Manitoba. It was established in 1932 as a symbol of a peaceful relationship between the two nations.</div>
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A few of the features at the Peace Gardens are gorgeous gardens and the Peace Towers.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dFMfBdmi0rc/U_KOu7Yv9cI/AAAAAAAALOg/IbUK_psfLiU/s1600/IMG_1430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dFMfBdmi0rc/U_KOu7Yv9cI/AAAAAAAALOg/IbUK_psfLiU/s1600/IMG_1430.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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The four columns represent people coming from the four corners of the earth to form two similar but distinct nations, sharing a common base of democracy and beliefs.</div>
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The Carillon Bell Tower plays tunes every fifteen minutes.</div>
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9-11 Memorial</div>
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Steel girders from the former World Trade Center were brought to rest at the Peace Gardens.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-js7sdACox5g/U_PriaTrPoI/AAAAAAAALS8/Ti7xuiwZmG8/s1600/tn13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-js7sdACox5g/U_PriaTrPoI/AAAAAAAALS8/Ti7xuiwZmG8/s1600/tn13.jpg" height="492" width="640" /></a></div>
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Interpretive Center and Conservatory</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8jKXCz0ItM0/U_KU28f5XJI/AAAAAAAALO8/tevOv8_N8rI/s1600/IMG_1432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8jKXCz0ItM0/U_KU28f5XJI/AAAAAAAALO8/tevOv8_N8rI/s1600/IMG_1432.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Peace Chapel is the only building that straddles the US and Canadian border.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KJxvfBgwBaU/U_KWy41x_TI/AAAAAAAALPE/PycenH4HBFA/s1600/1634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KJxvfBgwBaU/U_KWy41x_TI/AAAAAAAALPE/PycenH4HBFA/s1600/1634.jpg" height="534" width="640" /></a></div>
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The chapel features quotes from "People of Peace" etched into fossil-embellished limestone walls.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r94MN2WoYrc/U_Kae3khfDI/AAAAAAAALPQ/PIAowDQCQfE/s1600/IMG_1488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r94MN2WoYrc/U_Kae3khfDI/AAAAAAAALPQ/PIAowDQCQfE/s1600/IMG_1488.jpg" height="505" width="640" /></a></div>
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Floral Clock</div>
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We are back in the states and spent the night at the Fireside Inn and Suites in Devils Lake North Dakota. </div>
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Day 13</div>
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A lot of driving again today with a stop at the headwaters of the Mighty Mississippi.</div>
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It's not so mighty at the beginning.</div>
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Lake Itasca</div>
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Lake Bemidji</div>
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We stayed at a Comfort Inn in Duluth Minnesota. That's us....Green Country Tours.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Mr4xd1UpBI/U_KsH_ryS-I/AAAAAAAALQQ/i3Gt_xRbulM/s1600/IMG_1575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Mr4xd1UpBI/U_KsH_ryS-I/AAAAAAAALQQ/i3Gt_xRbulM/s1600/IMG_1575.jpg" height="400" width="393" /></a></div>
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A beautiful array of Coleus outside the hotel.</div>
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Day 14</div>
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Sunrise over Duluth </div>
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We make a short stop at Amnicon Falls State Park in Superior, Wisconsin. </div>
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The Covered Horton Bridge</div>
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The Lower Falls</div>
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Another stop on this last full day on the road home was the<a href="http://www.paulbunyancamp.org/" target="_blank"> Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-va3KyT1JTFQ/U_K6PykZWUI/AAAAAAAALRM/eyeH5MsRMQI/s1600/1671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-va3KyT1JTFQ/U_K6PykZWUI/AAAAAAAALRM/eyeH5MsRMQI/s1600/1671.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here you can experience what life was like in an 1890s logging camp.</div>
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On our last night we stayed in Janesville, Wisconsin.</div>
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Loading up that last morning was bittersweet knowing this was the final day. So many friends and memories were made in these two weeks...it was hard to see it come to an end.</div>
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Must be back in Ohio....it's cloudy. There is a Bicentennial Barn like this in every county in Ohio, a total of 88.</div>
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Would love to do this trip all over!</div>
Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-59073520242342368942014-08-10T16:00:00.000-04:002014-08-10T16:05:01.676-04:00Lemon Puppy Chow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Most people are familiar with Puppy Chow - chex cereal with chocolate and peanut butter then coated with powdered sugar, but you might not have tried the lemon version.<br />
I love lemony, citrusy, flavors so when I saw this recipe I knew I would love it even before I made it. I actually like it better than the peanut butter version.<br />
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<span id="sites-page-title">Lemon Puppy Chow</span></h3>
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8 cups Rice Chex cereal</div>
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1 cup white chocolate chips</div>
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1/2 cup lemon curd</div>
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1/4 cup butter</div>
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1 1/2 cups powdered sugar</div>
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1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips, butter and lemon curd, stirring constantly.</div>
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2. Pour Rice Chex into a large paper bag and pour the melted lemon mixture over the cereal. Fold the bag to seal and shake to coat the cereal.</div>
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3. Add the powdered sugar and shake again. Add a little extra powdered sugar if its too sticky.</div>
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4. Pour out onto 2 cookie sheets to cool. Store at room temperature in airtight containers.</div>
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Note: Do not use lemon pie filling. Lemon Curd is usually found near the jams and jellies. I use the Dickinson's Brand.</div>
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<span aria-label="Attachments" title="Attachments">linking to: <a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2014/08/clever-chicks-blog-hop-99-featuring.html" target="_blank">Chicken Chick</a></span><br />
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-4653386418601539842014-07-19T09:57:00.000-04:002014-07-19T09:57:23.832-04:00A hypertufa planter for mini hostas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp3qFSQ4SxY/U8ptkBBFhJI/AAAAAAAALNE/wCpbm2eDO7w/s1600/014ht.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp3qFSQ4SxY/U8ptkBBFhJI/AAAAAAAALNE/wCpbm2eDO7w/s1600/014ht.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been making hypertufa planters for a few years now but mostly smaller stuff. I really wanted one to combine a collection of mini hostas in one container. </div>
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Whenever I make hypertufa planters, I let them cure over winter in a dry place before planting in them so this is the one I made last year. You don't necessarily have to cure them that long, a few month's is usually good enough. Maybe longer for larger pieces like this one. It's just by the time I get around to making them its too late to plant in them so I let them cure all winter.</div>
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There are a lot of recipes out there but mine is pretty straight forward. Equal amounts of Peat Moss, Portland Cement, and Perlite. A little more or less of one or the other is not going to matter. </div>
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For more details of the mixing and what it should look like go<a href="http://serenitycove2.blogspot.com/2012/07/making-hypertufa-planter.html" target="_blank"> here.</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8lnDMjrR6Fs/U8lu7ftl8jI/AAAAAAAALL0/6GS45PAHds4/s1600/030ht.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8lnDMjrR6Fs/U8lu7ftl8jI/AAAAAAAALL0/6GS45PAHds4/s1600/030ht.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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For this container I'm using a large sturdy cardboard box. First fill the bottom for a depth of about 1 3/4 to 2 inches. I do a little less for smaller pieces but I figured a larger piece might benefit from a thicker base.</div>
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I start building up the sides. Now the best way to do this is to insert a smaller box and fill in the sides, but I didn't have a box the right size and I have had luck just forming it with my hands. </div>
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I work my way around the box, slowly working my way up. It takes a lot of time and patience doing it this way. Add more water if your mixture gets too dry.</div>
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Try to keep it as even as possible but it doesn't matter if a few places are a little thicker than others.</div>
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Now cover it with plastic and let it dry for a few days before removing the cardboard. Make sure its completely dried before lifting it because they are still very fragile at this point. </div>
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Drill a few drainage holes in the bottom before planting in it or you could insert some wooden dowels in the bottom while your tufa is still wet.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x6sdFVGnpGc/U8pwMGyzMlI/AAAAAAAALNM/RtFcVVqLKEE/s1600/065ht.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x6sdFVGnpGc/U8pwMGyzMlI/AAAAAAAALNM/RtFcVVqLKEE/s1600/065ht.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then the real fun begins. I put in Stiletto on the left, Blue Mouse Ears on the right, above Blue Mouse Ears is Cracker Crumbs, on the top right is an unknown petite hosta. The rest is just fillers for now. My plans are to gradually make this a Mouse Ears collection and remove the other hostas. There are many varieties and I would like to add a new one every year.</div>
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<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-1123367117806589992014-06-20T14:17:00.000-04:002014-06-20T14:17:43.645-04:00New Hosta's in the Garden <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know it's been a while since I've updated but there are a few reasons for that. First, there's the never-ending spring work of which I'm about a month behind this year, went on vacation, and after we came home my computer was giving me issues again.<br />
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Blogging is kind of like having a second job and its really hard to get back into it after being away from it for so long!<br />
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But regardless of how busy I am, I have to have some new hosta's!<br />
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'Lakeside Shoremaster'</div>
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For a while I was thought I wasn't going to have time to go hosta shopping this year but last week we found a day that worked for both of us, and took a day trip to Wade and Gatton in Bellville. I also picked up some of these hosta's from Cory's Hostas in Chillicothe, Ohio on our way home from vacation. </div>
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'Earth Angel'</div>
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'Earth Angel' is Hosta of the Year 2009 and is a sport of 'Blue Angel' but with a cream margin.</div>
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'Sun Power'</div>
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'Sun Power' is a large hosta that likes some bright light for best color. It was so tall I left it tied up until it gets settled in.</div>
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'Peter Ruh'</div>
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'Tokudama Aureonebulosa'</div>
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Try to pronounce that one! A notorious slow grower but a beauty when full grown.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BgyxDWdokHA/U6RaH_qj0RI/AAAAAAAALIk/fvOlb7CSjGQ/s1600/054hh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BgyxDWdokHA/U6RaH_qj0RI/AAAAAAAALIk/fvOlb7CSjGQ/s1600/054hh.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
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"Appletini'</div>
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A compact hosta with semi-glossy yellow leaves that turn apple green in summer.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhH1w0dCqO0/U6RcNQxpuNI/AAAAAAAALIw/pH5lpzGkVPE/s1600/063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhH1w0dCqO0/U6RcNQxpuNI/AAAAAAAALIw/pH5lpzGkVPE/s1600/063.jpg" height="470" width="640" /></a></div>
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'Punky'</div>
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Love that name!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MHyxFXpHaK4/U6Rc-Ui3H6I/AAAAAAAALI4/ndTwq5oGVpg/s1600/068hh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MHyxFXpHaK4/U6Rc-Ui3H6I/AAAAAAAALI4/ndTwq5oGVpg/s1600/068hh.jpg" height="414" width="640" /></a></div>
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'Clear Fork River Valley'</div>
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This was a Van Wade 2007 introduction named for the river that runs through Wade and Gatton.</div>
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This hosta offers some of the heaviest corrugation found on a hosta.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XeIMjoZuBxI/U6RfTTc5okI/AAAAAAAALJE/OTpiWlIkP8s/s1600/069hh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XeIMjoZuBxI/U6RfTTc5okI/AAAAAAAALJE/OTpiWlIkP8s/s1600/069hh.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
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'Great Expectations'</div>
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After I bought this one I read that it can be very difficult to grow and it grows slowly. So I'm guessing it might not live up to its name.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dpg3hOqeQ2s/U6R10YZOkHI/AAAAAAAALKg/JX35OfiPoZM/s1600/097hh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dpg3hOqeQ2s/U6R10YZOkHI/AAAAAAAALKg/JX35OfiPoZM/s1600/097hh.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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'Lil Abner'</div>
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'Richland Gold's Moonlight'</div>
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'Mighty Mouse'</div>
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My third mouse in the 'Blue Mouse' series. Love these tiny dwarf hostas but they tend to get lost when planted among other hostas. They look best planted in pots or I edge them with stones or bricks to make them stand out.</div>
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'Lakeside Kaleidoscope'</div>
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'Blue Jay'</div>
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Supposed to be one of the bluest hosta available. Blue hosta's require the most protection from the sun. This is because the blue color is actually a waxy coating on the leaf. In full, hot sun, this waxy coating can melt and expose the green leaf underneath. Touching them rubs off the coating as well and unfortunately it doesn't return. </div>
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'Cracker Crumbs'</div>
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Another miniature hosta that looking a bit bedraggled but a perfect hosta for my hypertufa planters. Hopefully it will look better next year. </div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-9247849433158143262014-05-15T00:13:00.001-04:002014-05-15T09:11:56.011-04:00May Blooms The garden has finally started to come alive the past few weeks and even though the harsh winter took it's toll on my garden, most of it survived.<br />
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It's Garden Bloggers Bloom Day again and I'm happy to share some of my blooms with you.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dtBrzFxNUEU/U3DDeG2tdII/AAAAAAAALBw/k8VoBnGacFY/s1600/051bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dtBrzFxNUEU/U3DDeG2tdII/AAAAAAAALBw/k8VoBnGacFY/s1600/051bd.jpg" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'll start with my tulips and daffodils. I love this combination of Tulip 'Christmas Marvel' and Daffodil 'Thalia'.</div>
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Tulip 'Angelique'</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HdnmfqDS9Ik/U3QqwwKNoCI/AAAAAAAALEE/2Mqrx1F9Emo/s1600/096bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HdnmfqDS9Ik/U3QqwwKNoCI/AAAAAAAALEE/2Mqrx1F9Emo/s1600/096bd.jpg" height="400" width="356" /></a></div>
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If there is one spring flower that I wish I had many more of, it's tulips. I just lose too many of them to the critters but I can't resist planting a few every fall.</div>
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These are the last of the daffodils. Not sure of the name. </div>
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I am loving the miniature flowers you can buy these days. These mini irises stand about 6 inches tall and bloom earlier than the tall ones. So cute!</div>
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Another favorite is bleeding hearts. Usually the pink ones bloom at the same time but they are behind this year. I'll try to post some next month.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCMzAVhtxpk/U3DM5v7LKFI/AAAAAAAALCk/ewpbMwpUWMU/s1600/082bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCMzAVhtxpk/U3DM5v7LKFI/AAAAAAAALCk/ewpbMwpUWMU/s1600/082bd.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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I lost a lot of my forget-me-nots this winter. Enough remain to hopefully reseed themselves again.</div>
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Primroses</div>
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Variegated Solomon's Seal</div>
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Epimedium Rubrum also known as Red Barrenwort. </div>
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The heart-shaped leaves of this plant have a red tinge which turns to bronze in the fall. The blooms may be small, however the whole plant makes an impact in a woodland garden. This plant can be used as a ground cover. I love the foliage on this plant just as much as the flowers. I will definitely be adding more Epimediums to my shade garden. </div>
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Heuchera 'Little Cutie Sweet Tart'</div>
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Virginia Bluebells are almost done blooming.</div>
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Pulmonaria 'Majeste' </div>
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Dogwoods are in bloom......</div>
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and the Crabapples are just done. </div>
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They were so beautiful this year.</div>
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To see more gardens in bloom head over to<a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.com/2014/05/garden-bloggers-bloom-day-may-2014.html" target="_blank"> May Dreams.</a></div>
Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-78364606766067988052014-05-02T13:36:00.000-04:002014-05-02T13:36:47.191-04:00Springtime FavoritesSPRING.....truly the best time of the year! I'm loving it even more than ever after the winter we've endured although I'm starting to wonder if we are going to have a summer this year. The cold just persists!<br />
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Every chance I get I love walking through the garden to see what new things have come up. It changes almost daily. Now if it would just warm up a little and a good dose of sunshine would really help, this girl would be really happy!<br />
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Here are some of the things I look forward to the most every spring.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MxbV5yAPOss/U1vQAyByp6I/AAAAAAAAK_c/khCsjk9JHvo/s1600/058s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MxbV5yAPOss/U1vQAyByp6I/AAAAAAAAK_c/khCsjk9JHvo/s1600/058s.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
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H. First Frost</div>
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I always anticipate those first hosta pips emerging from the ground. I love the bright spring colors of the hostas, before the yellows fade to cream or turn green. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w1qEKqqx7I8/U1vSWEEhnGI/AAAAAAAAK_o/osNvpEtXU-k/s1600/070s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w1qEKqqx7I8/U1vSWEEhnGI/AAAAAAAAK_o/osNvpEtXU-k/s1600/070s.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>
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H. Winsome</div>
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Ferns</div>
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I love watching ferns awaken in the spring. They remind me of little seahorses! I've never tried it but they say fiddleheads are delicious sautéed in a little olive oil. I think I would rather enjoy my ferns in the garden.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wQUxaR5BMSo/U1vVXDFJVgI/AAAAAAAAK_8/g95kGxWJp-Q/s1600/073s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wQUxaR5BMSo/U1vVXDFJVgI/AAAAAAAAK_8/g95kGxWJp-Q/s1600/073s.jpg" height="400" width="398" /></a></div>
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Virginia Bluebells</div>
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The Virginia Bluebells are just starting to bloom. Probably my favorite springtime bloom.</div>
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These bloom for a few weeks then they go dormant so you might want to mark the spot so you don't mistakenly dig them up when planting annuals.</div>
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Trillium</div>
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The first tulips opening.</div>
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Bluebirds nesting are high on my list.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4Ke0r6xLog/U2O7c6fRKuI/AAAAAAAALAo/W6fkbi-W-CE/s1600/002s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4Ke0r6xLog/U2O7c6fRKuI/AAAAAAAALAo/W6fkbi-W-CE/s1600/002s.jpg" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
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Baltimore Orioles</div>
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Rose-Breasted Grosbeak</div>
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I always make a note on my calendar when the Orioles return each year. This year the Orioles, Hummingbirds, and Grosbeaks all came back on the same day. So far the Grosbeaks have not nested here but move on after a few days, but I always hope someday they will decide to stick around for the summer.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NgWj6a1tAo4/U2O9UtK-quI/AAAAAAAALBA/oP2tXKOF4-M/s1600/017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NgWj6a1tAo4/U2O9UtK-quI/AAAAAAAALBA/oP2tXKOF4-M/s1600/017.jpg" height="400" width="366" /></a></div>
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I have several pairs of Orioles that nest here but this male has done nothing the last few days but sit on my window sills pecking on the glass. The females arrive a few days after the males so hopefully they get here soon. He probably thinks his reflection is competition.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxb9W_XdMgs/U2PViPY4eMI/AAAAAAAALBg/u9OKWRiUkq0/s1600/00977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxb9W_XdMgs/U2PViPY4eMI/AAAAAAAALBg/u9OKWRiUkq0/s1600/00977.jpg" height="377" width="400" /></a></div>
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Love Hummingbirds!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8_Ep5VLYRU/U2PHe3gRjmI/AAAAAAAALBQ/TdAqEC3Vidw/s1600/00222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8_Ep5VLYRU/U2PHe3gRjmI/AAAAAAAALBQ/TdAqEC3Vidw/s1600/00222.jpg" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fairy Gardens.</div>
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It been too wet to work in the garden so I've been working on my fairy gardens. I try to do a few every year slowly adding to my collection. I especially love fairy gardens in my hypertufa planters. I will do a post on these when I get them done.</div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-87496308981880483932014-04-15T05:12:00.000-04:002014-04-15T05:15:24.717-04:00Garden Bloggers Bloom Day April 2014Its finally that time of the year! I've been waiting and dreaming all winter of spring, and what a brutal cold, long, winter it has been here in the northeast.<br />
On the 15th of each month, gardeners from all over the world share a few bloom photos on their blogs. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to participate in April's bloom day but a few things are finally appearing.<br />
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Hellebores are usually the first flower to bloom in my garden. I've had these bloom as early as late January or February during a mild winter. </div>
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They are really pretty this year. Hoping the colder weather and possibly snow this week doesn't affect them. Yes....I said snow. I'm not too happy about that!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1iJm_GpPxk/U0z2NmGNW9I/AAAAAAAAK_E/iErvbmMdpuM/s1600/0121bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1iJm_GpPxk/U0z2NmGNW9I/AAAAAAAAK_E/iErvbmMdpuM/s1600/0121bd.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jOVBx7fo2E/U0rzNCQdh8I/AAAAAAAAK9c/VF7116VP4dM/s1600/010bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jOVBx7fo2E/U0rzNCQdh8I/AAAAAAAAK9c/VF7116VP4dM/s1600/010bd.jpg" height="400" width="363" /></a></div>
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Even the crocuses were reluctant to make an early appearance. I always thought crocuses were supposed to naturalize? It seems like I have fewer every year but maybe the voles are getting them. I guess it's time to replenish them.</div>
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Striped Squill</div>
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Hyacinth</div>
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My daffodils started blooming just in time for bloom day. They literally opened up overnight. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lR5M6Um-3MU/U0tfPaSNv3I/AAAAAAAAK-Q/tmeu6ePWAL4/s1600/015bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lR5M6Um-3MU/U0tfPaSNv3I/AAAAAAAAK-Q/tmeu6ePWAL4/s1600/015bd.jpg" height="400" width="355" /></a></div>
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There was a time when daffodils didn't do anything for me, but I have so much trouble with the critters eating my tulips I've started planting more daffodils. Now I look forward to their cheerful appearance every spring. </div>
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The Star Magnolia is just starting to bloom. I'd better enjoy the blooms while I can because it won't take the cold weather.</div>
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Happy Spring!</div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.com/2014/04/garden-bloggers-bloom-day-april-2014.html" target="_blank"> May Dreams Garden</a></div>
<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-19546161567117036972014-04-07T00:49:00.000-04:002014-04-20T10:57:56.317-04:00Orange Supreme Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxompho8H7s/Uz8sDxExSBI/AAAAAAAAK8I/HWPX0fC3hM8/s1600/033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxompho8H7s/Uz8sDxExSBI/AAAAAAAAK8I/HWPX0fC3hM8/s1600/033.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you love oranges? Do you love pie? Have you ever considered making an Orange Pie?</div>
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Seriously?</div>
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I didn't either but when I saw a picture of an Orange Pie on-line, and loving all things citrus, I knew was going to make that pie.</div>
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When my sister gave me some oranges fresh from Florida this week, I remembered that Orange Pie. I found two recipes but this one had a cream cheese filling in it and cream cheese has never let me down.</div>
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This pie is a citrusy slice of spring! The cream cheese and oranges make such a lovely combination.</div>
Wouldn't this pie look beautiful on your Easter dinner table? And I bet most of your guests have never had Orange Pie before. It's absolutely delicious and so refreshing!<br />
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Orange Filling:</div>
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1 1/4 cups water</div>
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1 cup sugar </div>
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3 Tbsp. clear-jel </div>
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1 tsp. orange Kool-Aid</div>
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3 oranges, peeled and membrane removed. Cut in small pieces and drain off the juice.</div>
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additional 1/2 cup cold water</div>
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Bring 1 /1/4 cups water to a boil. Mix together sugar, clear jel, and Kool-Aid. Add 1/2 cup cold water to the sugar mixture and stir. Pour into boiling water, stirring as it cooks. Remove from heat after it thickens. Cool completely. Stir in orange pieces. </div>
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Cream Cheese mixture:</div>
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4 oz. cream cheese</div>
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1 cup powdered sugar</div>
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8 oz. Cool Whip</div>
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Mix together cream cheese and powdered sugar. Add cool whip. Pour into baked pie crust. Top with orange filling. </div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/orange-supreme-pie" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a></div>
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This makes a large 9 inch deep dish pie or possibly 2 small pies.<br />
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I had extra orange filling that didn't fit in the pie so I just spooned it over my slice of pie.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2014/04/09/whats-cookin-wednesday-63/" target="_blank"> Buns in my Oven</a>: <a href="http://www.flusterbuster.com/2014/04/flusters-creativemuster-linky-party-66.html#more" target="_blank">Fluster Buster</a>: <a href="http://naptimeismytime.com/2014/04/whip-it-up-wednesday-15.html" target="_blank">Whip it up Wednesday:</a> <a href="http://www.jaqsstudio.com/2014/04/made-by-me-122-linky-party-and-features.html" target="_blank">Made by me Wednesday</a>: <a href="http://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com/2014/04/kitchen-fun-and-crafty-friday-link_10.html" target="_blank">Kitchen Fun:</a> <a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2014/04/weekend-potluck-113.html" target="_blank">Country Cook</a>: <a href="http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2014/04/foodie-friday-april-11th.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a>: <a href="http://www.whatscookingwithruthie.com/2014/04/11/super-saturday-39/" target="_blank">Cooking with Ruthie</a>: <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2014/04/strut-your-stuff-saturday-link-party-week-142.html" target="_blank">Six Sisters Stuff</a></div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-67547952187981464832014-03-20T09:57:00.000-04:002014-03-21T10:45:31.121-04:00Snack Bars<div id="title-crumbs" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0NTm7IqiAo/Ufv4XSXU34I/AAAAAAAAJKE/6pxaX6bufg0/s1600/054r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0NTm7IqiAo/Ufv4XSXU34I/AAAAAAAAJKE/6pxaX6bufg0/s640/054r.jpg" height="372" width="640" /></a></div>
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Every year a group of cousins in my family take a fun-filled bus trip to a neighboring state. These bars have been brought along frequently by a cousin-in-law and they are so good I asked if I could have the recipe. It's kind of a cross between a rice crispy treat and a cereal bar. Whatever they are, I just know I love them!</div>
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You can substitute other cereals for the ones listed. I threw in some Cheerios which weren't included in the recipe.</div>
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2 1/2 cups pretzel sticks, broken in half</div>
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2 cups corn chex</div>
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2 cups honeynut chex</div>
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5 cups mini marshmallows</div>
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1/2 cup butter</div>
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1/3 cup creamy peanut butter</div>
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1 1/2 cups mini m+ms (add at the very end so they don't melt)</div>
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Melt butter, marshmallows, and peanut butter over low heat. Pour over the rest of the ingredients except m+ms. Stir until everything is covered. Let it cool a little before you add your m+ms or they will melt.</div>
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Press into a 9x13 pan.</div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/snack-bars" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a><br />
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Pile them high on a plate if you are going eat them right away......<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bPGxkyiQQII/Ufv9RtYvPOI/AAAAAAAAJKk/aHqcinlqz2A/s1600/085r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bPGxkyiQQII/Ufv9RtYvPOI/AAAAAAAAJKk/aHqcinlqz2A/s640/085r.jpg" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>
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or wrap them individually for longer storage. </div>
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Linking to: <a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2014/03/weekend-potluck-110.html" target="_blank">The Country Cook</a>: <a href="http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2014/03/foodie-friday-march-21st-recipe-linky.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a>: <a href="http://www.dianarambles.com/2014/03/pin-me-linky-party-77.html" target="_blank">Diana Rambles</a></div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-19266376130932152192014-03-09T21:07:00.000-04:002014-03-11T22:19:40.398-04:00Creating a new look for my home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For many years my home décor has leaned towards country and although I was very tired of it, it just seemed overwhelming to start changing it. Last year I repainted the main living area in my home in a neutral gray, Revere Pewter. </div>
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I loved the color but didn't like the oak trim with it so with my husbands permission I ended up painting the trim, doors and fireplace white. LOVE the results but most of the country décor has to go.</div>
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After reading countless blogs and pinterest, I found myself going back to the ones that featured the French country cottage look the most. I'm really loving that shabby, chippy, distressed furniture look.</div>
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I know I can't change everything overnight, but now that I know what I like, I'm finding things around the house or in thrift stores I can transform without investing a lot of money. </div>
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Here are a few I've been working on this winter......</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0k2s7RpEbZo/Uxan5ICgUOI/AAAAAAAAK6E/2LyDUuJ8I-8/s1600/028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0k2s7RpEbZo/Uxan5ICgUOI/AAAAAAAAK6E/2LyDUuJ8I-8/s1600/028.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I found this old frame at a thrift store for a $1.50 </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWkqhZKUUkQ/UxaqB5H5PTI/AAAAAAAAK6M/g-3jS7kJDZA/s1600/041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWkqhZKUUkQ/UxaqB5H5PTI/AAAAAAAAK6M/g-3jS7kJDZA/s1600/041.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I gave it a coat of a light aqua paint I had on hand. This was one of my homemade chalk paints that I wasn't thrilled with but is useable.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49Cm1rpzNvA/UxarWBKflPI/AAAAAAAAK6Y/A_S3KIbXsRs/s1600/050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49Cm1rpzNvA/UxarWBKflPI/AAAAAAAAK6Y/A_S3KIbXsRs/s1600/050.jpg" height="432" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then I gave it a coat of the white Annie Sloan paint that I love.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivDxprGK5DI/UxauSowlf1I/AAAAAAAAK6s/uiJ62woqziE/s1600/057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivDxprGK5DI/UxauSowlf1I/AAAAAAAAK6s/uiJ62woqziE/s1600/057.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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I did some distressing, especially the edges and the raised ridges on the frame.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ag_prJ5wFGU/UxaueOBZ2FI/AAAAAAAAK60/OOuLztMEZI0/s1600/073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ag_prJ5wFGU/UxaueOBZ2FI/AAAAAAAAK60/OOuLztMEZI0/s1600/073.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVR_c0nZU5o/Uxax7sDcS0I/AAAAAAAAK7A/_WnEOOEt4EQ/s1600/0600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVR_c0nZU5o/Uxax7sDcS0I/AAAAAAAAK7A/_WnEOOEt4EQ/s1600/0600.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div>
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And finished it off with a coat of Annie Sloan wax.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bKcL9x3P7x4/Uxz0YLHHBTI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/rVXCUF2qwJ4/s1600/00111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bKcL9x3P7x4/Uxz0YLHHBTI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/rVXCUF2qwJ4/s1600/00111.jpg" height="466" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I started this project I was intending to do a chalkboard with it, but I saw something similar to this on pinterest and made this instead. I printed out a B in a font I liked and traced it on burlap using white chalk and painted it. I also gave the little flower pot a coat of paint.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HoQHBsIwC_U/Ux0BWeSWAuI/AAAAAAAAK7g/iEsGfhC1cm8/s1600/037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HoQHBsIwC_U/Ux0BWeSWAuI/AAAAAAAAK7g/iEsGfhC1cm8/s1600/037.jpg" height="454" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just dry brushing a wood box with some Annie Sloan paint gave it a fresh new look.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r3EwQwSUihE/Ux0Ce5R2qXI/AAAAAAAAK7w/66fzjKWS-3Y/s1600/0077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r3EwQwSUihE/Ux0Ce5R2qXI/AAAAAAAAK7w/66fzjKWS-3Y/s1600/0077.jpg" height="262" width="400" /></a></div>
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Repainted a sign I found at a thrift store. Cost of the sign....$1.50 plus paint.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8-LTbuEE4k/Ux0DGYBBdkI/AAAAAAAAK70/V9EcWk3oq0w/s1600/0100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8-LTbuEE4k/Ux0DGYBBdkI/AAAAAAAAK70/V9EcWk3oq0w/s1600/0100.jpg" height="470" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'll do a future post on this flowerpot. </div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2014/03/clever-chicks-blog-hop-77-with.html#" target="_blank"> Chicken Chick</a></div>
<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-58991057125774491342014-02-26T14:05:00.002-05:002014-02-26T14:05:38.528-05:00Tomato Bean Chowder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWllGWdMSqc/Uv6hUcJwSvI/AAAAAAAAK5w/AVxJbH8TRKU/s1600/097food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWllGWdMSqc/Uv6hUcJwSvI/AAAAAAAAK5w/AVxJbH8TRKU/s1600/097food.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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I haven't made any new soups lately so here is one I have been making for over 30 years that we like really well.</div>
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I first had this soup when we visited missionary friends on an Indian Reservation called Pikangikum, 60 miles north of Red Lake, Ontario, Canada. A place so remote we had to fly in on a seaplane.</div>
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Now if I saw this recipe somewhere, the ingredients wouldn't jump out at me and say that sounds delicious. But it is in fact very good and one I make at least once every winter. It looks a little like chili soup or pepper soup but tastes completely different. </div>
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After a few days of <strike>warmer</strike> milder weather, we are getting yet another round of cold weather this week with predictions of another possible storm this weekend.</div>
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Its' a good week to make a pot of soup and stay in.</div>
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1 1/2 lb. hamburger fried and drained</div>
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1 med onion chopped and sautéed in a little butter</div>
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1 cup celery chopped and sautéed in a little butter</div>
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1 large can pork and beans (1lb 12oz.) </div>
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2 cans tomato soup (10 oz.)</div>
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3 cups water</div>
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1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Note: Do not omit this. It makes a big difference.</div>
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salt and pepper to taste</div>
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Directions:</div>
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Onions and celery may be sautéed together.</div>
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Brown and drain hamburger then add the rest of the ingredients and simmer until celery is tender, approximately 45 minutes. </div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/tomato-bean-chowder" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a></div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-27889293640743498952014-02-14T17:22:00.000-05:002014-02-14T17:22:40.043-05:00Serenity Cove BirdsWhat a brutal, cold, snowy, winter it is turning out to be. January was one of the coldest on record and February is pretty much the same. <br />
I have a serious case of the winter blahs and I am counting down the days until spring. 34 Days! Only thing is...in Ohio that doesn't mean much. Not to be a pessimist but it could be double that. I'm holding out for an early spring because I think we DESERVE it after putting up with this cold winter!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5NrmRuLQNY/UvK8oxJzUFI/AAAAAAAAK00/g_Rcu1gtaaE/s1600/003b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5NrmRuLQNY/UvK8oxJzUFI/AAAAAAAAK00/g_Rcu1gtaaE/s1600/003b.jpg" height="640" width="444" /></a></div>
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Red-bellied Woodpecker</div>
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Watching and feeding birds is one bright spot in the long winter months.</div>
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The birds were slow to come around earlier in the winter, but it's been a feeding frenzy since the extreme cold arrived.</div>
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Here are just a few of the birds that are daily visitors at the feeders.</div>
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Downy Woodpecker</div>
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Northern Flicker</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKkRsXGcpXk/UvLBq4pWc6I/AAAAAAAAK1U/qFSS-SQnZFk/s1600/064b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKkRsXGcpXk/UvLBq4pWc6I/AAAAAAAAK1U/qFSS-SQnZFk/s1600/064b.jpg" height="640" width="516" /></a></div>
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Pileated Woodpeckers</div>
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Three Pileated Woodpeckers have been regular visitors this winter but I just can't get that third one in the picture.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANn5ws5LWqU/UvRoOAolQnI/AAAAAAAAK3A/8oDr-NN00UY/s1600/030b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANn5ws5LWqU/UvRoOAolQnI/AAAAAAAAK3A/8oDr-NN00UY/s1600/030b.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div>
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The wing span of a Pileated!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KCYsS9KAgxI/UvRpqVB0VrI/AAAAAAAAK3o/JIbW9Ikah4E/s1600/027b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KCYsS9KAgxI/UvRpqVB0VrI/AAAAAAAAK3o/JIbW9Ikah4E/s1600/027b.jpg" height="484" width="640" /></a></div>
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Beat It......I was here first!</div>
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Blue Jays cannot resist peanuts. A lot of people don't like Blue Jays but I tolerate them because they warn other birds when a predator is in the area. They hog a lot of food though.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pJI3uBp_Qw/UvRj7tYeq9I/AAAAAAAAK1s/-sS9ZuXd1T0/s1600/083b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pJI3uBp_Qw/UvRj7tYeq9I/AAAAAAAAK1s/-sS9ZuXd1T0/s1600/083b.jpg" height="400" width="320" /></a></div>
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White Crowned Sparrow</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4bRqnzbleUg/UvRkjcAh5DI/AAAAAAAAK10/Z0q0tU0eLrw/s1600/087b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4bRqnzbleUg/UvRkjcAh5DI/AAAAAAAAK10/Z0q0tU0eLrw/s1600/087b.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is a Brown Creeper that usually shows up during the last half of winter. </div>
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The bluebirds are always my favorite. I never get tired of watching them as you can tell by the amount of pictures I take of them.</div>
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Tree Hugger</div>
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House Finch</div>
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For a while I thought we weren't going to have any Cardinals this year but they finally showed up when the weather got extremely cold in January. Not as many as some years, but at least we got a few. They are such beautiful birds and their cheer, cheer, cheer, birdie, birdie, birdie, song are such a welcome sound in the spring.</div>
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Carolina Wren</div>
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These little birds are so much fun to watch. They just seem to bounce around all over the place, checking out all the feeders and investigating every nesting cavity.</div>
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They love to steal the dried mealworms I put out for the bluebirds, usually getting to them first. But that's okay, it seems the bluebirds would rather eat the suet. </div>
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Junco</div>
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Tufted Titmouse</div>
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American Goldfinch</div>
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<strike>Patiently</strike> waiting on spring.</div>
Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-58039259831675773522014-02-02T20:13:00.000-05:002014-02-07T00:28:23.645-05:00Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake Dessert<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5nSFuRIW1Hs/Uu7Yld81pII/AAAAAAAAKzQ/4TbHDJPFS2M/s1600/161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5nSFuRIW1Hs/Uu7Yld81pII/AAAAAAAAKzQ/4TbHDJPFS2M/s1600/161.jpg" height="348" width="640" /></a></div>
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Since Valentine's Day is just around the corner, you might want to make your sweetie a decadent dessert. </div>
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Of course chocolate is always associated with Valentine's Day, so I will share this chocolate dessert.</div>
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A very rich and chocolatey dessert.</div>
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Start by baking a chocolate cake according to the directions on the box. I used a Chocolate Fudge Cake mix but any chocolate cake will work. The Chocolate Fudge is darker and richer than lets say a German Chocolate would be if that makes a difference to you.</div>
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Make sure you bake your cake in a greased and floured pan for easier removal.</div>
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Cool your cake to room temperature and turn out onto a towel.</div>
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Using a long knife, split your cake into two layers. Don't worry if it's not completely even. It's all going to be covered up with a yummy filling!</div>
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Take one layer and place it back in a clean cake pan. </div>
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Here's the yummy part. I love cream filling! I love me a little cake with lots of cream filling!!</div>
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This one is easy to make.</div>
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Take one box of vanilla instant pudding. Mix in 1 1/2 cups milk. Let set until thickened then mix in one 8 ounce container cool whip.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0TLNelsOFGI/Uu7kIv4Z3RI/AAAAAAAAK0M/fZGcTIa65vk/s1600/1222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0TLNelsOFGI/Uu7kIv4Z3RI/AAAAAAAAK0M/fZGcTIa65vk/s1600/1222.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Spread the filling on your first layer of cake.</div>
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Put your remaining layer of cake on top. </div>
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Now take a can of frosting, heat in the microwave just until it's pourable and......</div>
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pour all over your cake. Again I'll mention the chocolate fudge is pretty dark and rich in case you want to opt for a lighter chocolate.</div>
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For an alternative to chocolate how about trying a Strawberry Cake mix with Strawberry Frosting?</div>
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Happy Valentine's Day!</div>
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Linking to;<a href="http://www.thenewlywedpilgrimage.com/moonlight-mason-jars/link-party-41/#sthash.UaoHmE8z.TrXR3E9a.dpbs" target="_blank"> Moonlight and Mason Jars;</a> <a href="http://www.flusterbuster.com/2014/02/flusters-creative-muster-linky-party-57.html" target="_blank">Fluster Buster;</a> <a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2014/02/clever-chicks-blog-hop-72-with-two.html" target="_blank">Chicken Chick</a>;<a href="http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2014/02/foodie-friday-and-mystery-ingredient.html" target="_blank"> Foodie Friday</a></div>
<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-35680542584664399432014-01-24T13:14:00.000-05:002014-01-24T13:33:30.104-05:00Homemade White Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OFrGwwrmwf4/UtcNAUaob5I/AAAAAAAAKyU/8kBYpzrZFL8/s1600/062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OFrGwwrmwf4/UtcNAUaob5I/AAAAAAAAKyU/8kBYpzrZFL8/s1600/062.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My husband has been hinting, well it was more like coming right out and saying he misses having my homemade bread. When our daughter got married over a year ago, it was one of those things I didn't have time for and just never got back into making it. <br />
I have always made wheat bread, which is my favorite, but decided I would also like to have a basic, easy to make, white bread recipe. <br />
I found this one in my favorite Amish cookbook, Cooking with Love. It seemed easy enough. You don't even have to proof the yeast. I added potato flakes to the recipe because I thought it might produce a softer bread. <br />
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<span id="sites-page-title">Homemade White Bread</span></h3>
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1/2 cup white sugar</div>
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2 Tbsp. bread flour</div>
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2 tsp. salt</div>
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3/4 cup boiling water</div>
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1/2 cup potato flakes opt.</div>
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1/2 cup vegetable/canola oil</div>
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1 3/4 cup warm water</div>
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1 1/2 Tbsp. yeast</div>
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6-7 cups bread flour</div>
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Instructions:</div>
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Mix the first four ingredients; then add the next four ingredients in the order given. Add flour one cup at a time until dough pulls away from bowl. Remove from bowl and knead on a floured surface a few minutes. Let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Punch down and rise again for about 45 minutes. Form into 3 loaves and rise until doubled. Bake at 350 for 22-25 minutes.</div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/homemade-white-bread" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a></div>
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Pan toast is the best! </div>
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If you have never had toast, made in a pan, you have to try it. Just butter both sides of your bread and toast both sides in a pan.</div>
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Mmmm....it's so good.</div>
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We ate this a lot growing up.</div>
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Linking to; <a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2014/01/weekend-potluck-102.html?showComment=1390587154260" target="_blank">Country Cook</a>; <a href="http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2014/01/foodie-friday-january-24th.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a></div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-80299968098246976412014-01-17T12:36:00.000-05:002014-01-21T19:13:57.633-05:00Baked Chicken Breasts in Gravy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYulJUpeP90/UtBrkRjk6cI/AAAAAAAAKwk/7qpG0xgwgwI/s1600/031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYulJUpeP90/UtBrkRjk6cI/AAAAAAAAKwk/7qpG0xgwgwI/s1600/031.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let me start by saying, I love this recipe. It is a tried and true recipe I have been making for years, and it is so moist and delicious.</div>
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Sometimes I use chicken strips to make this or I cut the regular chicken breasts in half.</div>
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Now, I do not like to make gravy, but this one always turns out great. It may seem a little thin when you make it, but don't worry, it thickens as it bakes.</div>
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3 lb. boneless chicken breasts</div>
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1 1/4 cup flour</div>
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1/2 tsp salt</div>
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1/2 tsp Lawry's seasoning </div>
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1/4 tsp pepper</div>
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Gravy:</div>
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1/2 cup butter</div>
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1/2 cup flour</div>
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5 1/2 cups water</div>
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1 Tbsp chicken base</div>
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1 tsp salt </div>
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1/2 tsp kitchen bouquet</div>
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Instructions for gravy:</div>
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Melt butter and add flour; stir to brown a little. Slowly add water; bring to a boil. Add chicken base, salt and kitchen bouquet. Set aside.</div>
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Instructions for chicken:</div>
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Mix the flour and seasonings. Roll the chicken pieces in the flour mixture. Fry in pan until both sides are browned. I use a combination of oil and butter to fry my chicken. Transfer to baking dish covering each layer with gravy. </div>
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Bake at 350 for 1-11/2 hours or juices run clear. </div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/chicken-breast-in-gravy" target="_blank"> printablerecipe</a></div>
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Linking to: <a href="http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2014/01/foodie-friday-january-17th.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a>:<a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2014/01/weekend-potluck-101.html" target="_blank"> Country Cook</a>: <a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2014/01/clever-chicks-blog-hop-70-with-three.html" target="_blank">Chicken Chick</a>:<a href="http://www.flusterbuster.com/2014/01/flusters-creative-muster-linky-party-55.html" target="_blank"> Fluster Buster</a>Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-78151617363740762712014-01-10T14:08:00.000-05:002014-01-14T20:16:19.987-05:00Annie Sloan Paint ProjectBy now most of you have seen and heard all the rage with Annie Sloan Chalk paint. Not to be confused with chalkboard paint. It's a completely different product although it has a chalky, matte finish to it.<br />
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I've been reading on a lot of blogs how amazing this paint is and what really appealed to me was the no priming, pre-sanding or stripping needed. The paint goes on almost any material indoors and out and it's great for furniture you want to give a distressed look to.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_uuY_MBse0/Ur44-uw1ppI/AAAAAAAAKo4/hzp8XDRrLEk/s1600/0530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_uuY_MBse0/Ur44-uw1ppI/AAAAAAAAKo4/hzp8XDRrLEk/s400/0530.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The only downside to this paint is it's relatively expensive. It's sold by the quart for 38.95!</div>
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I also read that people have made their own chalk paint for a lot less money by mixing some sort of powder, such as plaster of paris, calcium carbonate, or even baking soda, to latex paint and supposedly it resembles chalk paint. </div>
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Of course the frugalness in me I had to try to make my own, not once but twice, with disastrous results. Well, actually one of them is useable but I can't say I'm overly impressed with the results.</div>
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Still wanting to try the real chalk paint, I decided to splurge and dish out the money for the real stuff and I'm glad I did.</div>
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I love it!</div>
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The good thing about this paint is a little goes a long way. You can paint several pieces of furniture with one quart of paint. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jdv1SpZCZ_0/Ur5Dtm4SE5I/AAAAAAAAKpI/39leevCVQ3A/s1600/034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jdv1SpZCZ_0/Ur5Dtm4SE5I/AAAAAAAAKpI/39leevCVQ3A/s640/034.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So this is my first project. My husband made this little table 30+ years ago and it just didn't go with the décor in my house but I didn't want to part with it. It's been sitting in the basement for years and I decided this will be my experimental piece. I figured it can't possibly look worse than it does now after many years of neglect.</div>
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The only prep I did was to wipe it off with a damp rag and then I started painting.</div>
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<img border="0" height="291" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHUV7mkr6DA/UsR1KGfR7rI/AAAAAAAAKrM/KS7SVlBVQyA/s320/035.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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After one coat. Chalk paint is very thick so I added a little water before starting the second coat. This paint dries very fast so as soon as I finished the first coat I started the second. </div>
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Another technique I want to try sometime is using two colors. After applying the first coat, lightly brush a second color on top, or distress it to let some of the bottom color show through, creating a layered look. </div>
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Annie Sloan paint is available in 30 colors or you can mix colors together to customize your own. I knew I wanted white to start with and Annie Sloan comes in Old White, which is their best seller and Pure White. I would say Old White is more vintage and Pure White more modern. I had a hard time deciding but ended up going with Pure White, but I'm sure I would have loved the other one as well. I was really tempted to get the Duck Egg Blue color as well, but decided to wait and see if I like the paint.</div>
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After the second coat dries you can start distressing.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3cOMwCthRY/Ur5NyUjGxZI/AAAAAAAAKpw/66B2FdqwqoM/s1600/0460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3cOMwCthRY/Ur5NyUjGxZI/AAAAAAAAKpw/66B2FdqwqoM/s640/0460.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was a little scared of this part. I have never repurposed furniture of any kind ever in my life. Like I said earlier this paint distresses very easily and knew I could repaint it if I messed it up. Besides, this was just practice and I wasn't expecting perfection. It was a lot easier than I thought. It was almost fun.</div>
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I use a combination of a fine grit sanding block and a damp rag to achieve the look I wanted. Unless you have a huge piece of furniture I don't think you will ever need an electric sander with this paint.</div>
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Now I really should have done this outside but it's winter and I didn't want to leave my warm house so I spread out newspaper and distressed in my living room. The paint comes off in a fine powder and it does make a mess. After I did this I read where some people recommend waxing the piece first and then distressing. There's a lot less dust that way. I'll try that the next time....or take it outside like I should have in the first place!</div>
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With chalk paint, the look is meant to be distressed, so if you mess up it's easily fixed. Drips, like above.... just sand them off and repaint.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tETaOn1tmYg/UsRlJPtvbQI/AAAAAAAAKqo/sH6tSety8uE/s1600/048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tETaOn1tmYg/UsRlJPtvbQI/AAAAAAAAKqo/sH6tSety8uE/s640/048.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can distress as much or as little as you like. Once you get the look you want it's time to wax.</div>
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Chalk paint feels chalky so you will need to wax it. The wax will give it a soft finished look and it will also protect your pieces.</div>
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Annie Sloan has a clear wax and a dark wax. I only used the clear but if you are going for the aged and worn look you will want to use the dark wax.</div>
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Again, like the paint a little goes a long way. I just used a soft rag to apply and buff. If your piece has a lot of detail in it you will probably need a brush to apply your wax. It's recommended that you apply two or three coats of wax especially on heavily used pieces. </div>
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If at any time you wish you would have given your piece another coat of paint or distressed more, you can go ahead and do it as long as it's 24 hours after the wax was applied. Just always end with wax. You would not believe how soft and velvety the wax makes it feels.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_xhqnNSjiY/UsSBvbrkprI/AAAAAAAAKrY/kLazU99uT6M/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_xhqnNSjiY/UsSBvbrkprI/AAAAAAAAKrY/kLazU99uT6M/s640/002.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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The finished table. I love it and it has found a spot in my dining room. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OWptuPDBNPk/UsSDflqIfBI/AAAAAAAAKrk/JXz-WrQB_J8/s1600/00500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OWptuPDBNPk/UsSDflqIfBI/AAAAAAAAKrk/JXz-WrQB_J8/s400/00500.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I can honestly say that my first Annie Sloan project will not be my last. I have a lot to learn but I think I might have found a new hobby.</div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://missmustardseed.com/2014/01/furniture-feature-friday-favorites-link-party-19/" target="_blank"> Miss Mustard Seed</a>: <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/2014/01/frugal-friday_9.html" target="_blank">Shabby Nest</a>;<a href="http://www.flusterbuster.com/2014/01/flusters-creative-muster-linky-party-54.html" target="_blank"> Fluster Buster;</a> <a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2014/01/clever-chicks-blog-hop-69-with-scratch.html" target="_blank">Chicken Chick</a></div>
Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-54566560043908835442014-01-02T00:29:00.000-05:002014-01-02T00:29:18.470-05:00West Trip....Day Ten.I hope everyone
had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! My New Years resolution is to finish this trip blog before the next trip....LOL.<br />
I wasn't planning on dragging it out this long but I have been so busy with the holidays and work I just didn't have time to finish it. <br />
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The Three Sisters are a trio of peaks near Canmore, Alberta, Canada. They are known individually as Big Sister (Faith), Middle Sister (Charity), Little Sister (Hope).</div>
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This is day ten of our trip west as we leave the Canadian Rockies and begin the long trip home. </div>
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Leaving Canmore we shortly passed the Three Sisters Mountains, the last mountains we'll see.</div>
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One minute I took a picture of these mountains, looked down for a few minutes.......</div>
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and when I looked up we were in the prairies. I had no idea. I always imagined Canada to be fairly mountainous, especially the Calgary area. Not so. West-Central Canada is mostly prairie, consisting of large grain farms. </div>
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Nearing Calgary we passed a colorful building in the Olympic colors which I assume was part of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Goodness gracious.......how could that possibly be 25 years ago?</div>
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Ski Jumps</div>
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The Calgary Tower</div>
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Standing on the glass floor on the observation deck. Carolyn....why aren't you looking down?</div>
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Calgary with the Rocky Mountains in the distance.</div>
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Calgary Skyline</div>
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Remember the Bow River in Banff. Here it is flowing through Calgary. </div>
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You wouldn't know two month prior, this area had catastrophic flooding when the Bow River and others overflowed after heavy rains in the area. The dome below had water up to the first ten rows of seats.</div>
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Calgary Saddledome hosted figure skating and ice hockey in the 88 Olympics and is home to the Calgary Flames. The famous Calgary Stampede is also held here in July, which would have been on our itinerary had we been here at the right time. </div>
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We also stopped at Heritage Park, a historical village in Calgary. The park features four distinct villages or areas reflecting time periods in Western Canadian history. The time periods are circa 1864, 1880, 1910, and Heritage Town Square depicting the 1930s to 1950s.</div>
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A scaled down version of a Hudson Bay Fur Trading Fort.</div>
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The building's inside the fort contain furnishing's or replica's of that period.</div>
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Adjacent to the Hudson Bay Company Fort is the Aboriginal Encampment.</div>
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Sod House</div>
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This area of the park depicts a 1910 Railroad Town.</div>
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But the place we spent most of our time was the Gasoline Alley Museum, devoted to all kinds of automobiles, trucks, and gas pumps etc.</div>
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Would LOVE to have this! I have memories of going on a trip years ago with my family in one of these.</div>
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A few of the what seemed like hundreds of gas pumps.</div>
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I could post a hundred photos of old cars and trucks but this post is getting way too long.</div>
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Back on the bus we passed a prairie fire.</div>
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We saw a lot of grain elevators and trains transporting the grain in the prairies.</div>
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We stayed in Medicine Hat, Alberta.</div>
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<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-44999717267431490932013-12-19T09:48:00.000-05:002013-12-22T18:55:38.673-05:00Crock-Pot Christmas Potpourri<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love the smells of Christmas and my favorite way is simmering this easy to make potpourri in a small crock-pot.</div>
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You can simmer this on your stovetop if you like, but I'm always afraid I'll forget to turn it off so I started simmering it in a crock-pot. Works great and smells amazing.</div>
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I don't necessarily go by a recipe, I just add what I have on hand. Most of these ingredients are optional.</div>
Ingredients:<br />
2-3 cups of water or fill your crock-pot about 3/4 full. I don't measure.<br />
slices of an orange and the peeling<br />
1/2 cup fresh cranberries <br />
4 cinnamon sticks<br />
1 Tbsp cloves<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1 tea bag. I use this only if I have something fruity like orange or a berry tea that I'm trying to use up. Constant Comment would be good too. <br />
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Put everything in your crock-pot and let it simmer all day.<br />
Add water as needed. <br />
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Linking to:<a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2013/12/clever-chicks-blog-hop-66-with-three.html" target="_blank"> Chicken Chick</a>Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-71858486787990712192013-12-11T21:44:00.000-05:002013-12-17T21:26:21.831-05:00DIY Winter Scene Jars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoxEn8bnmeE/Uqj_xjocsuI/AAAAAAAAKm4/1KJN_qm1cDc/s1600/024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="411" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoxEn8bnmeE/Uqj_xjocsuI/AAAAAAAAKm4/1KJN_qm1cDc/s640/024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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These winter scene jars are super simple to make and cost almost nothing. They are so easy you almost don't need a tutorial but I'll tell you anyway.</div>
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I used these hurricane vases that I had on hand, but you can use any glass jar, especially mason jars.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7b4NBP4rPb8/UqkLBbEHg6I/AAAAAAAAKnI/UTE7AEGuP5k/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7b4NBP4rPb8/UqkLBbEHg6I/AAAAAAAAKnI/UTE7AEGuP5k/s640/005.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First we are going to create some frost. You can use artificial snow spray if you like but this is how I do mine. Rinse the inside of your jar and sprinkle regular table salt on the inside of the jar while it's still wet. Let it dry and you have frosted jars.</div>
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Oh.....please try not to leave a fingerprint on the inside of the jar like I did below!</div>
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If that happens just wet the spot a little and sprinkle more salt. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bnglvECLH_A/UqkOVskxOeI/AAAAAAAAKnU/X74EHgBoHi0/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bnglvECLH_A/UqkOVskxOeI/AAAAAAAAKnU/X74EHgBoHi0/s640/011.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next pour in your snow. You can use fake snow, Epsom salt or even white sugar. Whatever you have on hand. I like to use Epsom Salt because my trees sit more firmly in it. You could even add some glitter to your snow for extra sparkle. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fNlmFFHomrA/UqkSNGfdjFI/AAAAAAAAKng/Wc2_rgomyMw/s1600/017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fNlmFFHomrA/UqkSNGfdjFI/AAAAAAAAKng/Wc2_rgomyMw/s640/017.jpg" width="587" /></a></div>
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Now I rummaged through my Christmas decorations to see what I could put it my jars. It can be as simple as a few bottlebrush trees.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D33x3-rn25I/UqkWrF1EI8I/AAAAAAAAKns/p32NPcnqRio/s1600/0160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="483" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D33x3-rn25I/UqkWrF1EI8I/AAAAAAAAKns/p32NPcnqRio/s640/0160.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In this one I cut a piece of grapevine garland to fit in the jar, added some moss and a bird.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qWhSdDNrfOU/UqkYFxz92AI/AAAAAAAAKn4/mw99uimt1GI/s1600/015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qWhSdDNrfOU/UqkYFxz92AI/AAAAAAAAKn4/mw99uimt1GI/s640/015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And in the third one a snowman ornament, pinecones and some fake berries. There are so many possibilities. </div>
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Once I started it was hard to stop. I have a few more ideas rolling around in my head for another day.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ryji7v7qjEw/Uqketp_BRiI/AAAAAAAAKoI/4PG6cBD4G5I/s1600/019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ryji7v7qjEw/Uqketp_BRiI/AAAAAAAAKoI/4PG6cBD4G5I/s640/019.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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These were so easy I hope it inspires you to give them a try.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by.</div>
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Linking to:<a href="http://madeinaday.com/2013/12/11/moonlight-mason-jars-linky-party-guest-host/" target="_blank"> Moonlight and Mason Jars</a>; <a href="http://www.craftberrybush.com/2013/12/the-inspiration-gallery_12.html" target="_blank">Craftberry Bush</a>; <a href="http://www.flusterbuster.com/2013/12/flusters-creative-muster-linky-party-51.html" target="_blank">Fluster Buster</a> </div>
<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-13443923519950796912013-12-06T20:03:00.000-05:002013-12-13T17:00:16.404-05:00Soft Christmas Cut-Out Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCZSNlHqZio/UqJGWMYLaDI/AAAAAAAAKjE/cjXMAKmGUOU/s1600/178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCZSNlHqZio/UqJGWMYLaDI/AAAAAAAAKjE/cjXMAKmGUOU/s640/178.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></a></div>
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When it comes to Christmas cut-out cookies, this has been my go-to recipe for years.</div>
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My cookies might not be the most beautifully decorated Christmas cut-outs, but they are soft and flavorful. To me it's more about flavor and a soft, melt in your mouth cookie than how elaborately it is decorated. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-btBe0ejl8nU/UqJYnr8UBpI/AAAAAAAAKjU/5PtJBPTqTbA/s1600/162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-btBe0ejl8nU/UqJYnr8UBpI/AAAAAAAAKjU/5PtJBPTqTbA/s400/162.jpg" height="278" width="400" /></a></div>
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After mixing your dough according to the recipe, cover and chill overnight or for several hours. I take a knife and score my dough into four equal parts while it's still in the bowl. At this time if you don't want to bake all your cookies at once you can freeze part of your dough if you like. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSJfS_wwpoo/UqJZ8581ZeI/AAAAAAAAKjg/ckK2Zl5ZEWU/s1600/164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSJfS_wwpoo/UqJZ8581ZeI/AAAAAAAAKjg/ckK2Zl5ZEWU/s400/164.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>
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The dough will still be sticky so flour your surface and rolling pin generously. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u4KyMUMm8os/UqJcHg953lI/AAAAAAAAKjs/2sUh-KXMP-c/s1600/174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u4KyMUMm8os/UqJcHg953lI/AAAAAAAAKjs/2sUh-KXMP-c/s400/174.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>
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Roll out one quarter of the dough at once. You want to keep it at least 1/4 inch thick.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i35MVbjKSaE/UqJekZ2k6BI/AAAAAAAAKj4/4V6zveOtusY/s1600/171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i35MVbjKSaE/UqJekZ2k6BI/AAAAAAAAKj4/4V6zveOtusY/s400/171.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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Usually I use all different shapes of cut-outs but today because it was snowing, I decided to do snowflakes. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-9 minutes or lightly browned.</div>
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TIPS:</div>
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If you don't have buttermilk on hand you can substitute 1 Tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar plus milk to make 1 cup. Let stand for 5-10 minutes.</div>
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If you like your cookies soft like I do, make sure you don't roll them out too thin and don't overbake them. If you like them crispier, roll the dough out thinner and bake a little longer.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jU0JsNHDYTA/UqJfLr-FIoI/AAAAAAAAKkA/Oehea7xR-dU/s1600/1966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jU0JsNHDYTA/UqJfLr-FIoI/AAAAAAAAKkA/Oehea7xR-dU/s640/1966.jpg" height="492" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now I know Royal Icing is what most people use to decorate their cookies, and is necessary if you are doing a lot of detail, but trust me on this......Butter Cream Icing is the best! </div>
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By the time I get my cookies mixed, chilled, and baked, I just don't have a lot of time left for decorating so I keep it real simple and just sprinkle them with sanding sugar.</div>
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2 cups sugar</div>
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2 sticks butter, room temperature</div>
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2 tsp. baking soda</div>
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2 tsp. baking powder</div>
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1/2 tsp. salt</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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6 cups flour</div>
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1 cup buttermilk</div>
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2 Tbsp. vanilla</div>
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Instructions:</div>
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Cream butter, add sugar and beat well. Add eggs. Add dry ingredients alternating with buttermilk. Add vanilla. Chill several hours or overnight. Roll out on well floured surface about 1/4 inch thick and cut. Bake at 350 for 8-9 minutes. Don't overbake. Let cool on cookie sheet for a minute or two before removing.</div>
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Butter Cream Icing: </div>
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1 stick butter, very soft but don't melt.</div>
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4 cups powdered sugar</div>
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2 tsp vanilla</div>
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4 Tbsp very hot water</div>
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Mix until smooth adding more water or powdered sugar until the desired consistency.</div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/christmas-cookies" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a><br />
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Linking to: <a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2013/12/clever-chicks-blog-hop-64-with-two.html" target="_blank">Chicken Chick</a>; <a href="http://allshecooks.com/2013/12/10/wonderful-food-wednesday-8/" target="_blank">Wonderful Food Wednesday</a>; <a href="http://www.flusterbuster.com/2013/12/flusters-creative-muster-linky-party-50.html" target="_blank">Fluster Buster</a>; <a href="http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2013/12/foodie-friday-plus-novel-bakers.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a></div>
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Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-28812803442504702892013-11-29T22:14:00.000-05:002013-11-29T22:14:46.678-05:00Canadian Rockies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jJ4Smogs-UQ/UoxGwXrTc_I/AAAAAAAAKfk/eqgDb_0EpxI/s1600/tn10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jJ4Smogs-UQ/UoxGwXrTc_I/AAAAAAAAKfk/eqgDb_0EpxI/s640/tn10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mount Amery</div>
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This long overdue post is continuing day 9 after leaving the Columbia Icefields.</div>
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Just a few more photos as we head back to Banff to spend some time in town.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQyxBjCxNlc/UplWd8CZP8I/AAAAAAAAKi0/g-E8WyICyhA/s1600/5266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQyxBjCxNlc/UplWd8CZP8I/AAAAAAAAKi0/g-E8WyICyhA/s640/5266.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally we had a bear sighting. The lack of wildlife was disappointing but we saw this bear and cub by the side of the road and one other bear not far from this one. Not a grizzly like I was hoping, but at least we saw bear.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y2jxPWllMvI/UoxIkcz19KI/AAAAAAAAKfw/kQi01tnV6EE/s1600/tn7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y2jxPWllMvI/UoxIkcz19KI/AAAAAAAAKfw/kQi01tnV6EE/s640/tn7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mount Rundle</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FiLHFSPuSnw/UoxI3S4V06I/AAAAAAAAKgA/MDLdoU05PVM/s1600/tn5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FiLHFSPuSnw/UoxI3S4V06I/AAAAAAAAKgA/MDLdoU05PVM/s640/tn5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bow River</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vp0s1_fZzhs/UoxJKt9wXSI/AAAAAAAAKgM/yj66bFjLF4E/s1600/tn4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vp0s1_fZzhs/UoxJKt9wXSI/AAAAAAAAKgM/yj66bFjLF4E/s640/tn4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Banff is very much a scenic tourist town. The town's main street was intentionally laid out in such a way that it would offer the best possible views of Cascade mountain.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DczfjO-tw7s/Uo7mBEXFUcI/AAAAAAAAKhI/yLnOOEJ4wVI/s1600/tn20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DczfjO-tw7s/Uo7mBEXFUcI/AAAAAAAAKhI/yLnOOEJ4wVI/s640/tn20.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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Driving down main street one looks as if he is driving straight into Cascade Mountain.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GVI_GhLSWBQ/UoxJrPEouRI/AAAAAAAAKgY/a7i34HF2LTQ/s1600/tn14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GVI_GhLSWBQ/UoxJrPEouRI/AAAAAAAAKgY/a7i34HF2LTQ/s640/tn14.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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St. Paul's Presbyterian Church</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eltnm_0Gt5Y/Uo7d_nxODmI/AAAAAAAAKg4/b50oKo3uJe0/s1600/tn16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eltnm_0Gt5Y/Uo7d_nxODmI/AAAAAAAAKg4/b50oKo3uJe0/s640/tn16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsq_V18UroM/UoxKAtnY2YI/AAAAAAAAKgg/54QpLpdErn8/s1600/tn6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsq_V18UroM/UoxKAtnY2YI/AAAAAAAAKgg/54QpLpdErn8/s640/tn6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I saw a lot of these unfamiliar birds in Canada. Finally found out they were Magpies. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwiycS4wmo4/UoxKMHJQbMI/AAAAAAAAKgo/tKX5Gwb6vuo/s1600/tn15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwiycS4wmo4/UoxKMHJQbMI/AAAAAAAAKgo/tKX5Gwb6vuo/s640/tn15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We stayed at the Chateau Canmore a Quality Resort in Canmore. Air Conditioning at last! I guess the AC is what made it a Quality Resort because the rooms sure could have used some updating!</div>
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Some more of those beautiful delphiniums in front of the hotel.</div>
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I think the three peaks in the center behind the lamppost and to the right are the Three Sisters. We will get a better view of them in my next post. On the other side of those mountains you will be in the prairies. </div>
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I loved the long days in Canada. Still daylight at 9:30pm. </div>
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This was our last day in the Canadian Rockies and then we begin the long trip back home.</div>
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<br />Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5947091909969460331.post-50439650758225925632013-11-22T21:50:00.000-05:002013-11-22T21:49:06.736-05:00The Best Cranberry Salad <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm reposting this recipe because next week is Thanksgiving and it's not too late to add this delicious Cranberry Salad to your menu. It is hands down the best ever!</div>
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I thought the recipe I always used for Cranberry Salad was already the best one ever, but recently I had this one with the addition of a cream cheese layer. Well.....I always thought cream cheese makes everything better and now I know for sure. This is over the top delicious!<br />
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First mix jello with boiling water. Stir until dissolved. Add cold water and orange juice concentrate. Orange concentrate was not in this recipe but I love the citrusy flavor it adds so I adapted the recipe to include it. You can leave it out and add 1/2 cup extra water if you like, but you really should include it!<br />
Let this set in the refrigerator until partially jelled.<br />
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Meanwhile chop your cranberries and apples and mix in your sugar and drained pineapple. And nuts if you desire. I like nuts in it but my family doesn't so I omit those.<br />
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Mix the jello and cranberry mixture together. Should look like this. </div>
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Pour half of your mixture into a 9x13 pan. Let set in fridge until firm.</div>
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Meanwhile beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together. I could eat this by the spoonful!</div>
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Spread on top of jello layer.</div>
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Put remaining jello on top and let set til firm.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Cranberry Salad</span><br />
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1 package cranberries chopped fine</div>
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1 15 oz can crushed pineapple drained. Save juice for cream cheese mixture.</div>
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3-4 apples peeled and chopped</div>
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6 oz orange juice concentrate</div>
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1 cup sugar </div>
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3 (3 oz) boxes strawberry jello or any red.</div>
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2 8 oz. packages cream cheese</div>
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1 cup powdered sugar</div>
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional<br />
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1. Mix 3 boxes jello with 2 cups boiling water. Stir until dissolved.</div>
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2. Add 2 1/2 cups cold water and orange juice concentrate. Let this jel slightly.</div>
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3. Mix together chopped cranberries, drained pineapple, chopped apples, sugar and nuts if using.</div>
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4. When jello is partially jelled add cranberry mixture.</div>
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5. Pour 1/2 of the mixture into a 9x13 pan . Refrigerate until completely set.</div>
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6. Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together. Add a bit of pineapple juice if needed to make a spreadable consistency.</div>
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7. Spread cream cheese over set jello. Pour remaining cranberry mixture over the top. Let set until firm.</div>
<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/serenitycoveprintablerecipes/cranberry-salad-1" target="_blank">printablerecipe</a><br />
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Linking to<br />
<a href="http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2012/12/foodie-friday-12612.html" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://www.couponingncooking.com/2012/12/mealtime-monday-recipe-link-up-party.html" target="_blank">Mealtime Monday</a><br />
<a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/2012/12/on-menu-monday-week-of-dec-8-2012.html" target="_blank">StoneGable</a>Serenity Covehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00378941749467418225noreply@blogger.com14