tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19883851898930162342024-03-13T00:12:07.870-05:00Plain Old KristiSimple Living Permaculture Gardening and Family LifeKristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.comBlogger432125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-37161235412853178092017-04-29T19:31:00.001-05:002017-04-29T19:32:08.230-05:00Pictures From The Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-8949393069852171002017-04-12T12:23:00.001-05:002017-04-12T12:23:48.294-05:00My Wild and Abundant Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm sitting here posting these pictures while listening to Carly Simon. My 18 year old has a hilarious love of 70's music. I'm not complaining..... Here are some pictures to catch up on what's going on in the garden. It has matured in so many ways. I'll post plenty of pictures as we go, but here's a start.</div>
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My style of gardening is slightly controlled wild abundance. Throw enough seeds in the garden and something is going to grow. Different years yield different abundance. Makes it exciting and fun. My family isn't always sure what I am going to be dragging in. The goal is to have variety and something maturing throughout the year. Right now I am harvesting, beans, beets, carrots, asparagus, chard, collards, mustard, a variety of herbs, mulberries, black berries, green onions..........................I'm sure I missed something.</div>
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I love to save seed. These seed pods are from a Chinese green. I bought the first seeds from Bakers Creek Heirloom seed Company years ago. There has never been a need to plant them again. I have plenty of volunteers each year. I do save some seed each year. Just in case!</div>
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Two of my favorite bean varieties. Taste and quality are two reasons I choose them, but honestly I keep coming back because they are drop dead gorgeous!<br />
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Dragon Tongue Bean again from Bakers Creek Heirlooms. These pods are gorgeous yes....but they taste really awesome too. Even when you miss picking for a day and they get a little too large....still tender and yum.<br />
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Golden Wax Bean, these are destined to become pickled dilly beans.<br />
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Lettuce is seed too!<br />
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Some baby carrots on last nights chicken dinner along with herbs: bay leaf, parsley, rosemary and thyme.<br />
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The front garden is starting to lose it's winter blues.<br />
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My poor pecan trees...still naked as can be.<br />
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The beds are getting a bit worn. When they fall apart Byron will replace them for me. The banana trees are starting to perk up. I even have a stalk of bananas forming.<br />
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Mirliton (Chayote), ginger, garlic, cilantro/coriander (saving seed).<br />
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Swiss Chard, Green Onions, Cilantro<br />
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My potted plants on the front porch. I love these little bbs.<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-35354932073318341262017-03-27T11:32:00.000-05:002017-03-27T11:32:19.535-05:00ReturnA lot has changed in my life. A lot of surprising sudden changes. But finally I am ready to return to blogging. Really just sort of wondering is there anyone still out there? <br />
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Not that I blame anyone for giving up.....it has been a long time. There were things that hit me from the blind side that I had to deal and cope with. I'm not really sure if I am finished, but I am getting closer to the other side. Maybe one day I can talk about it.<br />
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There are some new things in my life. I am a Grandmother. This is my new little guy!<br />
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Also some new baby chicks. Eleven of them. My sweet little hen was such a good setter! So proud of her! She also is a good little Mama to her babies.<br />
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But..... Some things haven't changed....I still love Jesus and my family.....and I still adore gardening, chickens, frugality, cooking, canning, crochet, knitting, art, and a lot of other things.<br />
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I am looking forward to writing and sharing. I just didn't have the courage in the recent past. Just maybe...just maybe....this will help return the courage that sometimes I feel I have lost. Although I must not have....I am still here!Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-22650545169440682552013-08-19T12:25:00.000-05:002013-08-19T12:25:52.854-05:00Around the House and Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My friend Beppi gave me these great pamphlets from the 40's and 50's on crocheting all those awesome doilies you see at garage sales, vintage shops and thrift stores. Usually they're in pretty crummy condition or expensive. With the help of the internet and tenacity I am teaching myself to crochet these crazy feminine little things! I am refraining from putting them on the arms and backs of the household seating. I'm sure my husband appreciates!</div>
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These books are in such perfect condition....but so fragile! I have to be careful turning the pages. I've thought about copying each pattern so I don't mess up the books. I'd have to buy ink then....something I always forget of course until I need the printer.<br />
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I did finish this doily. It really is beautiful, but I brought it to Maryland and gave it to my sister NeeKee and totally forgot to take a finished pic. Crocheting these old patterns is so much fun, and I feel like I'm channeling a little bit of what it must have been like during that time. Pretty things were much more precious it seems. My Mom told me my Grandmother had a friend make her a large table doily in the pineapple pattern for her table.<br />
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So many of them. I've started a Queen Ann's lace tablecloth since...It's coming along.....maybe pictures soon.<br />
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We did take a little trip this summer....here is the girls walking down the path to the old Oliver homestead in Great Smokey Mountain National Park.<br />
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There were thousands of these little butterflies everywhere! I took this picture as we waited on the road for a stubborn bear to be removed by the rangers.<br />
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These cute little barn swallows were timidly looking out at us. Their mother was frantically flying around scolding us.<br />
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Lovely<br />
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When I got back the garden of course was a summer mess.....You don't want to see pics of that do you? Here is a little of the bounty I've been picking.<br />
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Here's some more....heirloom Cherokee corn and three different types of peppers: Thai, Fish and Cayenne. There's also cucumbers in the crock. I'm hoping to make fermented pickles....we'll see!<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-24552151966317551302013-06-30T12:17:00.000-05:002013-06-30T12:22:34.890-05:00Raccoon, Dragon Tongue Bean, and Around the House and Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This little raccoon is one of three young ones living in our area. I haven't seen Mom Raccoon lately. Not sure if she's decided they are ready to make it on their own or if she met some other fate.</div>
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Here's a recent harvest. Even more cucumbers are coming in now and oodles of peppers. See the yellow looking beans in the center? Those are "Dragon Tongue Beans". This is the first year I've tried them. Highly recommended. They are still producing in our heat! All of the other beans are long gone. I'm very excited to see how long they continue to produce. You can buy seeds to try <a href="http://www.rareseeds.com/dragon-tongue-bush-bean/">HERE.</a> Those are dill seeds in the little dish.<br />
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Herbs washed and ready to dry.<br />
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My crepe myrtle in the front yard is lovely as usual. All of the summer blooming trees are blooming their hearts out.<br />
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Close up....I love the electric blossoms. When the wind blows it looks like pink snow falling. One area of a street in the New Orleans Bywater neighborhood is lined with them. The street is carpeted with pink blossoms this time of year. Surreal.<br />
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Lovely Lovely Pride of Barbados<br />
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My fav crepe myrtle "Natchez" It's branches sweep almost to the ground with heavy blossoms.<br />
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Yep, the garden is a little rough this time of year. Always is. The heat takes it's toll on humans and plants alike!<br />
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But the peppers love the heat. They are producing like crazy. I'm cooking with them like crazy! This is Fish Pepper. It is an African American heirloom.<br />
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Crook Neck Cushaw. A favorite pumpkin of Cajuns.<br />
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Melons! This is an heirloom. I forgot the name. I need to look it up.<br />
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Lemon Queen Sunflower. Pale yellow blossoms, stands about four feet tall.<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-24768993253359661872013-06-15T22:32:00.002-05:002013-06-15T22:32:50.354-05:00How long should cabinets last anyway?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After 19 years and much use....I had to replace my much loved and hated cabinets. After Katrina we painted our old cabinets and prayed they'd last five more years. Eight years later (and much fixing and shoring up) we finally said goodbye to them.</div>
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I know 18 years for cabinets doesn't seem long. Really, I don't think that's so long. Cabinets should really last a lot longer...but our cabinets were very thin press board....really funky cheap cabinets. Considering the quality...I squeezed everything I could out of them.</div>
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Thanks to my dear friend Carla, I was able to get my new lovely cabinets. Solid wood cabinets. Yes, I am hoping to get many more years out of these. Time will tell the tale. I do think they are lovely.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKh44zllh9Ia7TcakUtPgq5Jr3HuT4ZJfLg8GK7hlJl1B0uZeqzozL1GaVJHzo8FKGCF5vrGxCmcTWa0NpwVINq6zKiYi_U-DKHNnKkXpx9EKtUZ1sSzDAYaIN-Dkp-bf-U5jFOXiTdqw/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKh44zllh9Ia7TcakUtPgq5Jr3HuT4ZJfLg8GK7hlJl1B0uZeqzozL1GaVJHzo8FKGCF5vrGxCmcTWa0NpwVINq6zKiYi_U-DKHNnKkXpx9EKtUZ1sSzDAYaIN-Dkp-bf-U5jFOXiTdqw/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh yeah...granite counter tops too. I'm so paranoid that my black iron pots are going to break it...eeep!!!<br />
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Love my new buffalo check curtains. Yep...that's a pineapple tomato I grew on the window sill. I mean, I grew it in the garden it's just sitting on the window sill. It weighs 1 pound 2 ounces...yep I weighed it....can't wait to eat it. My fav heirloom tomato.<br />
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I really love the porcelain apron sinks, but I'm afraid I'm a little to rough for them. I love to use black iron pots and I'm scared they my chip the porcelain. So I got a new deep stainless steel sink instead. I think it will last a long time.<br />
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My lovely April Cornell table cloth. I find them frequently at T.J. Maxx. Seriously cheaper there....$16.99. I think the round ones are $50.00 on the website. April Cornell table cloths are the best. They wear well and wash well and look beautiful.<br />
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OK this may give you an idea of what my cabinets and stove used to look like. I liked it then too....but my new cabinets are really snazzy.</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgBmJMF_9QTCyLDyhUE5nTm_n-zznLdYFYbgD3KsrVzej1wkkrdUCbJuse3TRFWFT2s2QoYbyOCns7hf0hxWFpp-rDaIPTkoy9TZ2YH94HqMGxKxL91yVHeAPlq716lR1zKpj0Yc8qXgD/s640/050.JPG" width="425" /></div>
Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-62051066590945994502013-06-04T17:21:00.000-05:002013-06-04T17:21:03.585-05:00Around The House and Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Egg Yolk Cherry Tomato...Sweet and yum....it seems as if the bugs ignore this tomato. I wonder if it's because it's yellow. </div>
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Front Garden....The flowers are generous!<br />
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The shell ginger is blooming like crazy this year. I love the purple lorapetalum, variegated ginger and the orange tithonia together. They are in the bottom right and corner. Green, yellow, purple and orange.<br />
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Lovely Althea<br />
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My side garden is wild...and I love it.<br />
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This is the first year my pineapple guava has formed fruit...so excited...I will report on them.<br />
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L.S.U. Gold fig... my current favorite! They are large and yellow. Very juicy and taste like honey. The best for eating right off the tree. I also have L.S.U. Purple, Celeste, and Brown Turkey.<br />
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Persimmons!<br />
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Little cantaloupes are covering the vines!<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-17253828801061547512013-05-17T09:41:00.001-05:002013-05-17T09:41:44.517-05:00Canning Grapefruit Juice and New Kitchen Cabinets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Mom had a bumper crop of the sweetest most delicious grapefruit this year. More than we could possibly eat. She shared many of them, but still had bushels of them left. For some reason most people think they don't like grapefruit and say "No thank you". I'm convinced it's because they've never had Louisiana tree ripened grapefruit.</div>
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My Mom wasn't sure what to do with them and was scared they were going to spoil. So....I decided to try and can grapefruit juice. I do love grapefruit. I also love grapefruit juice.....but this juice really surpasses any grapefruit juice I've ever drank from a commercial canner.</div>
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So if you live in a citrus area and can get your hands on a bunch of citrus you can jar it using the following recipe. I've only canned grapefruit and lemon. There's never too many oranges and you can always give those away.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Canned Citrus Juice</span></b></div>
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<b><i>You need: </i></b> Citrus fruit, sugar, sterilized canning jars, canning lids, and bands. Large pot for juice and canning pot</div>
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Juice your fruit</div>
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Strain fruit through cheese cloth or clean curtain sheers</div>
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Place strained juice in large pot</div>
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Add 1/2 cup of sugar to grapefruit juice (not lemon) for each 12 pints of juice</div>
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Bring juice to just under a boil and simmer for five minutes</div>
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Fill sterilized jars 1/2 inch from top.</div>
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Wipe rims</div>
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Place warmed lids (warm in hot water) on top</div>
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Screw bands down snugly</div>
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Place jars in pot of hot water</div>
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Jars should be covered by 1 to 2 inches of water</div>
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Bring water to a boil</div>
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Once boiling time each batch for 10 minutes</div>
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Remove from water</div>
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Allow to cool</div>
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Listen for seals to pop closed</div>
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Keep any jars that do not seal properly in Fridge and drink right away.</div>
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This is what my kitchen looks like currently. Getting new cabinets today! Will post pic.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGtBUj4rh5x4WUtq9I7kRF-HpO8v8G1cVJUymqpsruvOU7ADEGnKtMTu2_M0MDpeKXkRuuWnpI3b3_x_baytSkt_0-pXYj-Adr2wbNvdGHRdcLE-lalXNE2Svu8h1GwszV4SVMq477b4/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGtBUj4rh5x4WUtq9I7kRF-HpO8v8G1cVJUymqpsruvOU7ADEGnKtMTu2_M0MDpeKXkRuuWnpI3b3_x_baytSkt_0-pXYj-Adr2wbNvdGHRdcLE-lalXNE2Svu8h1GwszV4SVMq477b4/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a>
Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-67390988024686102142013-05-10T09:23:00.004-05:002013-05-10T09:23:51.714-05:00Regreening The DesertI found this video fascinating and inspiring.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aFgmt8M_NoU" width="560"></iframe>Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-82617679264710699492013-05-07T22:06:00.000-05:002013-05-07T22:06:31.597-05:00Around The House And Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My husband says my garden is an authentic Eden now. It even has it's own snake. This snake hangs out in an abandoned bird nest in the honey suckle next to the front porch. Not sure exactly what kind it is, but almost certain it's not poisonous.</div>
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My roses have reached the top of the pergola and are blooming beautifully. The brambles are also full of new buds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtAPFLvLDuMaG-sY5JtmMG973W1NsEWN3U57GhSOFC7N3AMjWm0vRw2bYrnPiv2Jk5Xv_JHa8Kg-if2s9sa3X3DICaJtJQLrAS8_P0N9_RIyrwoabuuFpUECKRbpNcpw1kfO1k4_GLGY/s1600/034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtAPFLvLDuMaG-sY5JtmMG973W1NsEWN3U57GhSOFC7N3AMjWm0vRw2bYrnPiv2Jk5Xv_JHa8Kg-if2s9sa3X3DICaJtJQLrAS8_P0N9_RIyrwoabuuFpUECKRbpNcpw1kfO1k4_GLGY/s640/034.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
Lovely False Indigo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRthyphenhyphenQxJE4PS0jvRjsxhc8o8Kua_5sles3LXfhPtYf2EWWcWzppbIM90hgQdDd7g14q_nNf9ZKM40WoloYLSmhm268k52VISLxcmCc_cVZ7K3dMPwcFo3BuRooSvZSCkHlIJMe33QGk0g/s1600/039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRthyphenhyphenQxJE4PS0jvRjsxhc8o8Kua_5sles3LXfhPtYf2EWWcWzppbIM90hgQdDd7g14q_nNf9ZKM40WoloYLSmhm268k52VISLxcmCc_cVZ7K3dMPwcFo3BuRooSvZSCkHlIJMe33QGk0g/s640/039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Moon Glo Iris next to a sago palm. I lost my lorapetalums in Issac. I planted new ones this spring. I love the purple leaves and pink blossoms as a back drop for the variegated ginger.<br />
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Garlic drying on the front porch. My garlic seems to mature a bit faster than the books say they should. I wonder if it's our warm climate. Although we have had more cold and cool weather than usual this year. Not any freezes though.<br />
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I need to look in my notes as to what type of iris this is. I just planted it last year and it has been blooming like crazy this spring. Vibrant velvety purple....love it.<br />
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Working on the side garden. The Louisiana phlox is lovely. This bed is going to get a lot of work this year.<br />
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Flossie guarded this bag of cat food like a lion guards a kill. Even bristling and laying back her ears when we got to close.<br />
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Talia's fledgling asparagus patch. We planted the seeds last spring. She and her Grandmother have a heated competition on who can grow the best asparagus. Talia is accusing her Granny of cheating. Granny bought two year crowns. Talia planted seeds. She's not doing too bad though.<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-64322842132817307092013-03-15T11:19:00.001-05:002013-03-15T11:20:03.840-05:00My New Greenhouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here's a peek inside my new greenhouse. This is heirloom tomatoes all lined up in a row. They're waiting for the weather to be just right. Then, I'll put them out in the garden. It's warm enough that I am opening the vents on the greenhouse. Although there was a little freeze about a week ago. That's the problem with March....unpredictable! There usually is a few more cold days here in March.</div>
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I am very happy with the greenhouse. I got a small one...you know...making sure that I am going to like having a green house. I'm happy to report. I love my green house. Love, love, love.</div>
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I am growing Pineapple, Cherokee, Brandywine, Cour Di Bue, Egg Yolk, and Amazon Chocolate tomatoes. My favs are Pineapple (large, juicy, luscious and sweet) and egg yolk (small yellow (golf ball size) sweet, prolific and just keep on producing right through our heat, I also find they are more resistant to pests.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK72DL7TxMfSgFxG7GngJ54iMTiBaRQ0is5O1VwETS5y0zIMApGilctjrM2trhv31xgD1z21l_9kdgJ2PlracpcoBoP-ZW4ppfbQfJOXmSkPqpbDbi9SDlYhLLSonNPZItgw-dLqorMXY/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK72DL7TxMfSgFxG7GngJ54iMTiBaRQ0is5O1VwETS5y0zIMApGilctjrM2trhv31xgD1z21l_9kdgJ2PlracpcoBoP-ZW4ppfbQfJOXmSkPqpbDbi9SDlYhLLSonNPZItgw-dLqorMXY/s400/010.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
Shot's of the seedlings.<br />
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Artichoke<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNPPWTne4STqM-nPFvEx13YvJiVz4xR7ea0pK9WNS6hooxg_teEruIgolFXW6ZdhHuEbfktzjc5URky-r4N3u0MlHHnpsXkz8NZXJj0M-2p-fxpdS5GER3UumrPxq7f1SujEM3eBNQGk/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNPPWTne4STqM-nPFvEx13YvJiVz4xR7ea0pK9WNS6hooxg_teEruIgolFXW6ZdhHuEbfktzjc5URky-r4N3u0MlHHnpsXkz8NZXJj0M-2p-fxpdS5GER3UumrPxq7f1SujEM3eBNQGk/s400/014.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
Large plants on the floor.<br />
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Here is how I grow my seedlings. First I make small soil blocks (google them "soil block makers" you can buy them numerous places). When the seeds sprout I make larger soil blocks with a indention that fits the smaller soil block. Then I put the small soil block in the larger one. <br />
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I find this saves seeds, space and soil.<br />
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The small soil blocks are on the right the large ones on right already planted with sprouted small blocks.<br />
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A small sample of what I am still harvesting: Carrots, cabbage, radishes, turnips, parsley, broccoli sprouts, green onion, Swiss chard, and collards.<br />
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<strong>Seeds to plant directly in the garden now (If you live in the New Orleans or Gulf Coast region):</strong><br />
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cucumbers<br />
melons (all kinds)<br />
squash (all kinds)<br />
beans (all kinds)<br />
corn<br />
potatoes<br />
gourds<br />
summer annuals: <em>morning glory, sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds</em><br />
herbs: <em> basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, green onion, bay, mint</em><br />
okra<br />
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<strong>Plant transplants of:</strong><br />
tomatoes<br />
eggplant<br />
peppers<br />
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Hmmmm....I think that's it.<br />
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Don't forget....you can plant small and bush varieties in pots!Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-7532241601310872772013-02-11T14:43:00.001-06:002013-03-15T11:20:33.373-05:00Citrus Season - How to can Lemon Juice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Citrus season in New Orleans is drawing to an end. My Meyer lemon trees are dripping with fruit. I've been picking and sharing, but I'll have to get a move on if I'm to save most of the harvest. This red wagon load represents only maybe one tenth of the harvest?</div>
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I've begun by sharing of course, but also by canning the juice. Last year I froze the juice into cubes, but Hurricane Issac left us without electricity for 10 days. The record was 18 days after hurricane Gustav. They had the electricity on quicker after Katrina! The cubes mostly melted before I could return home and fire up the generator. </div>
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My goal is to rely less on preservation methods that require electricity. Our electrical supplier is not the greatest. I know they are loudly proclaiming that they are not at fault for the Superbowl blackout....but I couldn't help but laugh when I heard about the ordeal. I'm just glad everyone stayed calm. I wonder if they thought about the Hurricane Katrina victims huddled in a darkened Superdome with the storm howling outside?</div>
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Sessie made the deer from pipe cleaners. My girl loves to make tiny animals from anything!</div>
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<strong>How to Can Lemon Juice:</strong></div>
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Sterilize Jars, bands and lids</div>
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(I used 1/2 pints, you can always open 2 if needed)</div>
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Juice lemons</div>
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strain Juice</div>
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Heat juice almost to a boil and simmer for a few minutes</div>
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Ladle into warm sterilized jars</div>
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Put lids and bands on.</div>
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Boil in a water bath for 5 minutes for 1/2 pints and pints...10 minutes for Quarts.</div>
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Don't start timing until the water comes to a boil.</div>
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Canning by water bath can only be done with high acid foods. You put the prepared and filled jars in a large pot and cover them with water about 1 inch above the top of the jars. Start timing the bath once the water has come to a boil.</div>
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The best book for learning to can is the Ball Jar Blue Book. </div>
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I will let you know how the juice works for me.</div>
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<strong>This Greeted me today when I went out to the garden....A friendly huge Louisiana Cock Roach. Even my cat Josie avoids these things. I can't stomp them....the crunch sickens me. I run the other way or ask Byron or Sessie to come smush them. Please Mr. Roach stay out of my house.</strong></div>
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Now that your hungry here's some broccoli I picked. The plants are still sending out plenty of shoots. Once you harvest the main head leave the plant. It will provide you with yummy shoots for the longest!</div>
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-18895459318800740582013-01-24T13:06:00.000-06:002013-01-24T13:06:41.701-06:00Around The House and GardensEverything looks a little drab this time of year.
But it's a time for planting and doing. A random sunny day has been sneaking in and the clover starting to pop up. There's also the unmistakable scent of citrus blossoms on the wind....so some trees are most certainly blooming. Guess that means I'll have to clean up the remaining fruit on the trees and trim them!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPHT-PN7MfeYA_Thyv6PnhkQjJJrcLsSdrfYJd78oSIQtAjZGqpk2l4khjj8OepUPpbAusQV8XFcpHpLOdG7hbXBKWI5xjJUTxXlHkSm2W4hqw3y2bjywP2JA394x3s5FU6cr1xG4e2k/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> The bees are loving the blooming Asian Mustard. The broccoli heads have been picked, but I am still harvesting plenty of side sprouts. Enough for salads and dipping.</div>
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My new green house I got for Christmas. It's small, but I believe it's going to be perfect for starting my seedlings. That's really all I need it for. I'd like to change the covering to shade cloth in the summer. I think I'll have to make that myself....and I'm not so sure how to tackle that...will see.</div>
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The seedlings are popping up. If you are going to start your own seeds in the New Orleans area....do it now...yesterday would have been better. Seeds to start early are: tomato, eggplants and peppers. Large seeds such as beans, corn, squash, melon, cucumber, okra, etc....are best planted directly in the garden...and it will be time to plant those very very soon. Prepare your beds and get your seeds ready.<br />
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Tomato popping up.<br />
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Thai Basil.<br />
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Here's the bench Byron made. Look at my nice deck flooring Byron built to put the green house on! Luv it.<br />
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Cabbages are just gorgeous! Beautiful. I think cabbages are lovely!<br />
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I've been collecting cardboard boxes and putting them on the paths. Getting ready for the mulch!<br />
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Broccoflower....taste like cauliflower. Lovely color.<br />
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Herb wheel. Green onions, coriander, parsley, dill, rosemary, and natursium.<br />
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Lettuce!<br />
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Today's harvest.<br />
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Some more of today's harvest....a wagon load of cabbage!</div>
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Ready for sauerkraut, coleslaw, cooking and pickling!<br />
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Wanted to mention....MY BANANAS ARE FRUITING!!!!!!!! Amazed! They're only what, two years old? I'm excited is an understatement.<br />
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Get ready for the season by:<br />
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Preparing beds (don't forget you can grow bush and compact varieties in pots!)<br />
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Ordering seeds<br />
<a href="http://rareseeds.com/">Baker's Creek Heirloom Seeds</a> This is a good source.<br />
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Planting in pots: tomatoes, peppers, herbs, artichokes, and eggplant (there may be others you want to plant)<br />
<a href="http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/starting-seeds-indoors-zm0z12djzsor.aspx">Mother Earth "Starting Seeds Indoors"</a>
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-47901840333336567432013-01-14T09:42:00.000-06:002013-01-14T22:58:31.594-06:00Christmas Tea PartyThis year I decided to give a Christmas Tea Party for the ladies in my family and my Father of course! He was the guest of honor! What a blast we had! I started early. I wanted it to be the best tea party ever...So....I made everything that I could myself. Even the smoked salmon! (With help from Byron!) I promised everyone I would post all the recipes (at the end of this post) and some pictures. Hope you enjoy. Maybe you'll be inspired to have one yourself next year, or maybe this spring?
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Here is the salmon covered in fresh dill (which there is plenty in the garden), juniper berries, sugar and sea salt.</div>
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I found these little baking cups. They're adorable and really neat. They stand up on their own and bake just like that...I like.</div>
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These are the holiday ones. I also bought butterflies and cloud ones Spring?</div>
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Bambi is Byron's! It's from one of his trips to Disney World as a child. The little velvet deer is an old ornament of my Mother-In-Law's. Prehaps from the 50's? I didn't buy any decorations. I love using what I have on hand in a different way to decorate and surprise people.</div>
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These are my shoes....Grand enough for the party I believe.</div>
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The coffee table set with Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake, Strawberry Shortcakes, Peanut Butter Balls, Salmon Bites, and Roast Beef and Cucumber sandwiches.</div>
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Tiny Strawberry Shortcakes</div>
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These Asparagus Sandwiches were the favorite and every single one was devoured.</div>
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The kitchen table with veggies, praline brie, date balls and sandwiches. The floral arrangement was made from what I could find in the garden that was still presentable. Flowers, pods and unique greenery!</div>
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Date scones with cream and lemon curd...the best!</div>
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Tiny stuffed potatoes with a patriotic tribute.</div>
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Veggies all from the garden! </div>
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<strong>Salmon Bites</strong></div>
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Pumpernickel Bread</div>
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Smoked Salmon</div>
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Cream Cheese</div>
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Small Amount of Milk</div>
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Chopped Fresh Dill</div>
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Cut pumpernickel bread into small circles using a small cookie cutter (silver dollar size). Mix cream cheese with a small amount of milk to make it a little softer. Put cream cheese into cake decorating bag with a large tip (I use a really large tip. The kind used for icing cupcakes). Squeeze a flower of cream cheese onto each pumpernickel round. Top with a few flakes of smoked salmon and sprinkle with fresh chopped dill.</div>
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<strong><em>I make my own smoked salmon. I'll put that recipe in another post. I like my own best!</em></strong></div>
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<strong>Asparagus Sandwiches</strong></div>
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White Bread</div>
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Mayonnaise</div>
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Fresh Asparagus Spears</div>
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Salt</div>
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Pepper</div>
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Lemon Juice</div>
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Cut tough ends off of asparagus. Steam Asparagus. Asparagus should still be on the crunchy side. Cut crust off of bread and spread mayonnaise on one side. Lay one steamed asparagus spear on slice of white bread mayo side up (of course). Sprinkle salt, pepper and a little lemon juice on top. Roll the spear up in the bread. Yummier than you think. These were everyones favorites. You can also tie a ribbon of chives around the roll in a bow to make it fancy.</div>
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<strong>Strawberry Shortcake</strong></div>
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<strong></strong> </div>
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6 oz of butter (room temp.)</div>
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1/4 cup plus two tblsp of sugar</div>
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3 eggs</div>
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1 1/2 cups of self rising flour</div>
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Straw Berry Jam</div>
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Strawberries hulled and cut into quarters</div>
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Whipped cream</div>
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(make your own with whipping cream, powdered sugar (add to taste) and a dash of cream of tartar. Whip until soft peaks form. Do not over whip!)</div>
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For the cake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat together butter and sugar in a large owl until pale and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Sift the flour into the mixture and fold in until thoroughly combined.</div>
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You can bake in an 8 inch pan (grease and base line with parchment) or into self standing paper baking cups. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and cake springs back lightly when touched. Let cool completely.</div>
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Spread jam on top of cake. For cup cakes use a melon baller to scoop out a small space in the center of each cake and fill with a dollop of jam. Top cake with strawberries. Put whipped cream in a cake decorators bag with large tip and cover top with whipped cream. Add extra strawberries on top. Do the same for each cup cake. Put a couple of strawberry quarters on top of jam. Give a nice squeeze of whipped cream on top. Then put a quarter of a strawberry on top. Sprigs of mint from the garden give it a nice garnish. You can bake two cakes and make the cake a double layer if you wish with strawberries, jam and whipped cream between the layers as well as on top.</div>
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<strong>Peanut Butter Balls</strong></div>
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<strong></strong> </div>
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2 cups creamy peanut butter</div>
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1/4 cup butter room temp.</div>
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1/4 tsp salt</div>
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
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2 cups confections sugar</div>
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Candy chocolate for dipping</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Mix everything together thoroughly except the chocolate. Put mixture in fridge and let cool. Melt chocolate. Roll mixture into balls and dip in chocolate. Place on wax paper of foil and allow chocolate to harden. Super yum. You can also decorate with sugar crystals or splash with a contrasting color chocolate.</div>
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<strong>Date Balls</strong></div>
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<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 stick of butter</div>
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3/4 cup of sugar</div>
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1 pack or 8 oz. of chopped sugared dates</div>
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1 cup chopped pecans</div>
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1 cup crisped rice cereal</div>
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1 tsp. vanilla</div>
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Powdered Sugar for coating</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In saucepan melt butter and sugar over low heat. Add dates and cook 3 minutes and remove from heat. Add vanilla and stir. Add nuts and rice cereal. Let cool a moment. Hint: butter hands to keep hot mixture from sticking to hands. Roll into balls then roll in powdered sugar. So yum.</div>
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<strong>Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake</strong></div>
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3 cups flour</div>
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda</div>
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1/2 teaspoon salt</div>
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1 cup (2 sticks) butter room temp</div>
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice</div>
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1 tablespoon grated lemon peel</div>
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1 cup sour cream</div>
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease 16 cup tube pan. Dust with flour.</div>
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Sift flour, baking soda and salt into a medium bowl. Beat butter in large bowl at medium speed until fluffy. Gradually add sugar and beat 5 minutes. Add eggs 1 at a time beating just until combined. Beat in lemon juice and peel. Using spatula mix in dry ingredients. Mix in sour cream. Transfer batter to prepared pan.</div>
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Bake cake until tester inserted near center comes out clean. About 1 hour 30 minutes. Let cool completely then turn out onto platter. You can make a glaze with powdered sugar, lemon juice and vanilla.</div>
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<strong>Praline Brie</strong></div>
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1 1/2 cup brown sugar</div>
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1 stick of butter</div>
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2 tblsp of whipping cream</div>
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1 cup chopped pecans</div>
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1 small or medium round of brie</div>
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1 pack of freezer puff pastry (should have 2 sheets)</div>
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extra butter</div>
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1 egg</div>
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On a greased piece of foil on a baking pan (foil makes it easier to remove cooked brie later), score top of brie with knife. Put several pats of butter on top. Place brie on first sheet of puff pastry. Place second sheet on top. Cut away extra on top so that 2nd sheet just covers top. Put aside scraps. Bring up first sheet of pastry and bunch around edges to create a pleasing effect and completely cover brie. Brush top with egg (not necessary but makes it shiny) Bake in oven at 400 degrees until puff pastry is golden and done (about 20 to 25 minutes). </div>
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About 10 minutes after brie is cooking, combine sugar, butter and pecans in pan. Cook on low until sugar is completely dissolved. Cook for a couple of minutes longer. Add whipping cream cook a minute longer. Slide cooked brie off of foil on to platter. Pour praline sauce over brie.</div>
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This is best very fresh so serve immediately.</div>
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<strong>Date Scones</strong></div>
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2 cups all-purpose flour</div>
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1tblsp baking powder</div>
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2 tblsp sugar</div>
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1/4 tsp salt</div>
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6 tbs butter</div>
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1/2 cup of sugared chopped dates</div>
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1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream</div>
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egg for brushing top</div>
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large sugar crystals</div>
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Preheat oven 400 degrees. I bake my scones on a silpat mat (love that thing worth purchasing). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking power and salt, Cut the cold butter into small pieces and blend into the flour mixture with a pastry blender or your finger tips (I use fingers). The mixture should look like coarse crumbs. Add sugared dates. Add whipping cream to the mixture. Stir until just combined. Do not over combine. Add more cream to make it loose if needed.</div>
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Spoon mixture onto floured surface. Knead dough gently (count to 10 DO NOT OVER KNEAD WILL MAKE TOUGH) Pat into rectangular shape about 2 inches thick. Cut in half long ways then into triangles. Brush top with egg, sprinkle with sugar crystals. Bake 15 to 20 minutes until lightly browned.</div>
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<strong>Cream for Scones</strong></div>
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3 cups heavy whipping cream</div>
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1 cup powdered sugar</div>
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3 oz cream cheese</div>
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dash of cream of tartar</div>
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Beat cream cheese til smooth. Set a side. Use a chilled bowl. Add heavy whipping cream and beat for 3 to 4 minutes (or more) until it starts to thicken a little. Then add cream cheese slowly as you beat and add powder sugar and cream of tartar gradually. Keep whipping until it thickens into soft peaks. Do not over beat.</div>
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<strong>Lemon Curd</strong></div>
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3 large eggs</div>
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1/3 cup fresh lemon juice</div>
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3/4 cup sugar</div>
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1 tblsp lemon zest</div>
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4 tblsp butter cut into small pieces</div>
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In pan on top of a heat diffuser (you can use a bowl placed in a pan with a couple of inches of water instead.) Whisk together the eggs, sugar and lemon juice until blended. Cook (on medium) stirring constantly to prevent curdling until the mixture becomes thick like sour cream or hollandaise sauce. Will take about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and pour through a fine sieve to remove any lumps. Stir in butter until melted and thoroughly mixed. Stir in lemon zest. Zest is optional. Cover so skin doesn't form. Let cool and refrigerate. Will keep up to two weeks. Makes 1 1/2 cups.</div>
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<strong><em>This isn't every recipe and I may have typed in a mistake in my hurry. So let me know if you would like another recipe or have any questions regarding these recipes.</em></strong></div>
Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-78844499925792674252012-12-17T21:40:00.001-06:002012-12-17T21:40:56.843-06:00Getting Ready For Christmas & Around The House and Gardens & Red Beans and Rice RecipeLong Title = Long Post<br />
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I'm finished shopping and now I'm doing a little decorating. Getting ready for a tea I'm having this Saturday for the ladies and girls in my family. It's exciting.
I'm reusing my decorations from past years and adding in a few natural items such as feathers and pine cones along with a generous sprinkling of glitter. When in doubt...add glitter! I painted "Merry Christmas" on the mirror with a little acrylic paint. I'm sure it'll scrape off just fine with a razor blade. <br />
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The mirror is actually an old dresser mirror I saved from a friend who was throwing it out for his mother. I turned it sideways and painted white first. When I tired of that I gave it a refreshing coat of glittery gold copper paint!<br />
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I also plan on making some fun things for the tea...will post on those later as well.<br />
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I love my Carruth Studios Nativity Stone....as well as my lovely handmade angels. We had so much fun making them in Sunday School. I teach the 10, 11 and 12 year olds. My favorite group to teach! So my Nativity has it's very own host of heavenly beings!<br />
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I draped one of my roosters lovely tail feathers over the top to frame it softly! Just like a loving hug...Sigh....<br />
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Hee Hee....Looks as if one angel is in trouble!</div>
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My cat and my dog pooped out on me while wrapping presents. Flossie made herself comfy on top of one of the wrapped gifts. Delta is comfortable as long as the cat's sleeping!<br />
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I've been picking so much from the garden. The row of red beans I planted (you may remember) way back is picked and shelled. I was concerned that it may not have time to finish before the coldest weather hit. We've had a few nights below 40 but the beans and the tomatoes held on! The largest plumpest ones I put in the white colander. The ones that started to dry I put in the silver. I'm going to cook the plump ones. They are amazing. So much better than dried and dried's pretty good.<br />
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I'm also harvesting: carrots, cauliflower, cabbage, beets, collards, turnips, mustard, Lima bean, broccoli....hmmm...oh yes cilantro, green onion, Roselle, dill, rosemary....that's about it right now.<br />
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I'm planting additional kale, cabbage, and broccoli (transplants), and beets and lettuce (seed) right now.<br />
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I spread the remaining beans on a pan to dry.<br />
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Pretty. Very pretty. I love to feel them.<br />
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The plump ones I cooked in a crock pot....since I'd be out shopping all day....Yum<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Red Beans</span></strong></div>
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(I cook from sight so these are all approximates)</div>
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Onions (about 1/2 cup)</div>
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Garlic (about 3 to 4 cloves)</div>
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Bell Peppers (about 1/2 cup)</div>
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Celery (about 1/2 cup)</div>
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Green Onions (about 2)</div>
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small bunch of parsley</div>
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Salt to taste</div>
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Pepper to taste</div>
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Dried Red Pepper (I use the ones I grow)</div>
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Oil (I use olive)</div>
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Red Beans (3/4 to 1 lb)</div>
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Smoked Sausage</div>
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Chop up all the seasonings. Saute seasonings in oil until tender. Add to pot with beans and water (or stock). Cover the beans about 1 inch. If cooking on the stove you may have to add water or stock as needed. Salt and pepper and crumble in dried red pepper (or flakes or ground). Cut sausage into links fry a little while in the pan. Add to pot of beans and simmer beans until done. They should be creamy! Serve over rice. I like medium grain brown rice or short grain will do too.</div>
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Some people put a stick of butter in their beans. They claim it makes them creamy. Not sure on this. I'm not inclined to try it personally. You can also throw in tasso, ham, a ham bone (whenever we have a whole ham I always save the bone for red beans), salt pork...hmmm I'm sure there is something else I've missed that some of the elders do. They throw most everything in there.</div>
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If you have a variation I'd love to know!</div>
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Here's a picture my daughter took of me holding a cabbage and some carrots I grew. She thought the cabbage looked like a wedding bouquet. Lovely hand hmmm?</div>
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Roasted beets and carrots with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, cracked pepper, and balsamic vinegar. I boiled the carrots and beets first (separately) to make them tender. Yum.<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-54351711079571639092012-12-11T16:06:00.002-06:002012-12-11T16:07:44.460-06:00Alela DianeI love Alela Diane's Voice and Music. So pretty and soothing. <iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/G-_-l_NaDcw" width="420"></iframe>Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-53373487195303313852012-12-06T11:34:00.000-06:002012-12-06T11:34:33.202-06:00Quilting and How To Make a Pinwheel SquareInspiration...This mag inspired me...first my Sister Ginger bought this magazine....I wanted it...She refused to relinquish it...so I had to go buy my own. I love the quilt on the front. It's not so perfect, and I love that!<br />
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I'm not a fan of those matchy matchy quilts that are all even and perfect. They make me feel...well...uncomfortable. Like being in a living room where everything matches...and you know...where no one ever goes. <br />
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Well there isn't a room like that in my house. Never will there be. We use every inch in our house.
I like quilts like that. Not a hang on the wall quilt...A snuggle under quilt is better.<br />
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So I'm attempting to make a similar quilt using scraps from some sewing projects.<br />
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You make the whole square from 2 inch strips of fabric. Starting with 2" X 2" squares and going out from there until you form a roughly 12 1/2" X 12 1/2" Square. I iron each seam after sewing. Hopefully that will help make it look nice. I don't know, somewhere I heard ironing is the key to good sewing. Sooo....I've been ironing ever since. At least my seams. As anyone who knows me... knows I hate to iron. My husband just forced me to buy a full sized ironing board. I've been using a little traveling one forever. I'm kinda glad he did....don't tell him!<br />
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Looka how sweet!<br />
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I do like this look. The colors are fun and unpredictable. Makes you wanna stare.<br />
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Started the next one! Here you can see the layout of a square before it's sewn.<br />
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This is a not so good pin wheel square. I like this one too. It's really easy. I'll show you how.<br />
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Cut out four squares. These are about 4". I just stack the fabric up and use a template and rotary cutter. Just discovered these rotary cutters and I like them a lot. You can cut out four squares lickity split.<br />
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Yep...there they are. Four lovely squares. I like using unexpected fabrics and colors together.<br />
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Put two squares top side facing one another and draw a line diagonally down the center.<br />
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Sew a seam on each side (not on the line) of the line.<br />
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Then cut along the line to divide the squares in half and into triangles.<br />
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Iron them flat this way.....<br />
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Then iron them open. It will form four squares of two fabrics each. Assemble in the pattern you want...<br />
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Sew two squares facing each other together...iron flat. Sew the other two squares facing each other together...iron flat....(Is this confusing?) Then sew the two pieces together facing each other...iron flat. It's really easy once ya get it....and fast (Which I like).</div>
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The second one turned out much better I must say. Not content to start one quilt...I started two. Not smart. Now I'll have to finish them......smiles and smiles!<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-75759381835766974232012-11-19T23:10:00.000-06:002012-11-19T23:10:02.977-06:00Greens<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Greens!</span></strong> Healthy Yummy Nutrient Rich Greens!
Greens is anything leafy and green (not cabbage) in the garden cooked down with onions, garlic, red pepper, salt and pepper. Preferably served with a juicy spicy pork chop and corn bread. (I made the cornmeal from corn I grew and dried this summer then ground in my vitamix!)
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-54167517674691191492012-11-13T08:44:00.000-06:002012-11-13T08:44:24.106-06:00Thai Roselle and The GardenLately I've been experimenting with odd plants that have a variety of uses. I would like to let you know how these work out for me. I am able to grow much that the rest of the you may not be able to grow simply because I live so far south. This plant has been grown as far north as New Jersey (of course with the benefit of being started early under glass).<br />
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This is the first year I have grown Roselle. I grew the the "Thai Red Roselle" variety that is offered by Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds. The calyxes aren't as large as the ones I have seen in photos grown in Asian countries. I believe that is due to the fact that the variety offered was chosen to be less sensitive to day length more than for it's size. Most varieties do best in the short days of the tropics.
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Roselle calyxes are used to make a healthful tea. The tea is believed to lower cholesterol, help treat heart disease, it is a diuretic and is loaded with antioxidants Roselle leaves and tender stems can be eaten in salads. It also is loaded with pectin and a jam can be made from it. I wonder if the pectin would be useful added to other fruits when canning?<br />
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I have already dried enough calyxes and plan to brew some tea soon. I'll certainly let you know my opinion on this. The plant did beautifully for me this year. It's growth was so lush that it spilled into the paths and blocked passage.<br />
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This is a link on <a href="http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/how-to-grow-hibiscus-zw0z11zsto.aspx">Growing Roselle from Mother Earth News.</a><br />
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Here are few calyxes I've picked<br />
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It's really a beautiful plant with lovely red stems. The flowers look very much like okra flowers. No surprise there since they are both from the hibiscus family. It easily could be used as an ornamental in a front yard garden. The HOA would never know you were "<em>gasp</em>" growing something useful!<br />
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Pretty! You can order the seeds here <a href="http://rareseeds.com/thai-red-roselle.html">Bakers Creek.</a><br />
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Here's the front garden. I pruned back my lorapetalum bushes and killed them. Oh well they kept getting too big anyway. I'll have to look for a smaller variety of purple bush for that area. I like the cloud of purple to provide a back drop for white or lighter colored flowers.<br />
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My windmill palm is getting tall and lovely. It's hairy trunk is so cool. I love textures and colors on barks and stems. My Natchez crepe myrtle has a beautiful silky red under color when the bark peels, and the river birch looks gorgeous when the bark starts peeling. I'll take pics and show you.<br />
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My rose vine is reaching the top of the pergola and is full of tiny buds! Time for a late flush of blooms! The lemon grass did wonderfully too. When the swing brushes it you get a whiff of lemon!<br />
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Still picking green beans.....<br />
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...and now beets! I fixed these for my girls their favorite way. Boiled, peeled, sliced and sprinkled with sea salt, cracked pepper and balsamic vinegar. They were consumed in less than a minute!<br />
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My girls lunches ready to go. I made veggie sushi today. Toasted sesame seeds, sushi rice, carrots, cucumber and cream cheese with a little bottle of soy sauce. My sushi rolls...well taste great, but look not so well. I'll keep working on it!<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-2009745899397860652012-11-02T12:57:00.001-05:002012-11-02T12:57:26.045-05:00Around The House and GardensFeeling so much better. Although not completely well. There's been a terrible virus going around. My daughter Talia caught it first. Me next. Now my daughter Seleste is lying listless on the sofa. Sooo...I haven't done much lately, and I've just lately felt like venturing outside to check on my crops. Nice surprise! Boy they've grown.
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I've also been thinking alot about those who have endured Hurricane Sandy. Another awesome category one hurricane. Storm surges are amazing, powerful and unstoppable. Humans are just another piece of debris in the wake of a storm surge. You cannot, cannot, cannot, stand up to a storm surge. If caught in one you can just find some sort of shelter and hope it holds up and you survive. <br />
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During Katrina there were stories of people who stayed who heard the sound of popping and explosions. They looked out there windows to see the surge coming in. The sounds were houses exploding as the storm surge hit. These are houses of fishermen that were built many feet off of the ground. One fisherman friend of mine only had three pilings left of his home.<br />
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This is one more reminder that you must, must, must, prepare for these things and be responsible for your own safety and future as much as you can. The government can not and should not be your mother and father. Everyone must learn to look out for themselves, their neighbors and those not capable.<br />
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While inside I put some Christmas cactus cuttings in rooting medium. I hope plenty of them take so I can share.<br />
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I also made some tiny soil cubes and planted cabbage, broccoli, kale, onions, leeks, lettuce, and boc choy. They sprouted right away.<br />
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The beds are looking beautiful again.<br />
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Look how large the cabbages are getting. There's something snacking a little on them. They are also forming heads now.<br />
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See!<br />
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This is self blanching cauliflower. It's leaves gather around the center hiding the forming curds from the sun.<br />
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My green beans love the weather and are producing prolifically.<br />
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I've collected enough recently to cook for the family and put up three full quart size bags in the freezer. Nice.<br />
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The purple cabbages are just lovely. With the sun shining behind it's outer leaves they look like purple angel wings.<br />
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Carrots are about 5 inches tall now. Remember you can eat the tops to! Throw them in your green recipes.<br />
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This is Thai Roselle. It's the hibiscus you find in Celestial Seasonings Red Zinger tea. It makes a very red health drink that is popular in Asia. Supposedly it's extremely high in vitamin C. I'm anxious to try this.</div>
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My puny banana tree now is a beautiful clump of six trees of various heights. The leaves were shredded in Hurricane Isaac. The nice unshredded large ones were grown since.</div>
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Finally the Asian Winged Beans are blooming. It takes a long growing season to get these babies to bloom. I'm not sure it could be done further north without protection. I'm very excited about this crop. Lightly steamed and eaten with salt when young they are very delicious.<br />
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<br />Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-14164246144127496772012-10-09T20:59:00.004-05:002012-10-09T20:59:57.286-05:00Around The House and GardensIt looks like spring here. All the leaves that were blown off during Issac have been replaced by light green new baby leaves....this all happened surprisingly quick!
Amazing, Amazing and Amazing...I'm amazed in case you didn't know.<br />
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I've removed all the bushes that were uprooted and I'm working on cutting back the abundant summer growth. Look at the bark peeling on the river birch...oh I love that!<br />
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I'm also clearing up my large garden one bed at a time and planting my fall crops. Here is a bed of red and green cabbage. They are growing so fast! When I was pulling weeds and preparing the beds, the soil was teeming with earthworms. I'm attributing my soils fertility to these little debris munchers.<br />
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The green beans already have flowers. There shouldn't be any frosts until December. Even then it may not really freeze until January...if at all. Two years ago if you remember the temps went all the way into the teens. Um...very cold for here....and last year...no freeze at all. So who knows how long these beans will produce.<br />
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These are the Camilla red beans I planted. The vine in the bed next to it is Asian winged beans. They came back like a perennial plant. Since it didn't freeze...I wonder. I'm excited none the less. Asian winged beans are delicious steamed when they are small.<br />
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The peanuts are just about ready to harvest! Looking forward to seeing what's underneath.<br />
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Fig cutting update!!!!! Byron put these cuttings directly in the dirt this spring after trimming his favorite tree. All, yep everyone, of them took. We're going to dig them when they lose their leaves and put them in individual pots and plant some here and some on the property in Mississippi. Byron's success has gone to his head. When pruning the trees recently, he stuck a ten foot mulberry branch in the ground to see if would "take". Ummm....Byron?<br />
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Curly mustard getting big enough to gobble. This is my fav mustard.<br />
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View of the front garden. The Monarchs and Fritillaries are everywhere!<br />
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Front porch pumpkin. I'm in the season! That's my fav garden tool ever. It allows me to get into tight spots to weed and it's great for breaking up the soil as well.<br />
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The baby chickies are getting big!<br />
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<strong><u>Things to plant now:</u></strong><br />
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parsley<br />
dill<br />
coriander<br />
fennel <br />
leeks<br />
cabbage<br />
collards<br />
turnips<br />
mustard<br />
broccoli<br />
cauliflower<br />
Brussels sprouts<br />
beets<br />
carrots<br />
onions<br />
garlic<br />
Swiss chard<br />
kale<br />
lettuce<br />
radish<br />
bachelor buttons<br />
cosmos<br />
sweet peas (flowers and peas)<br />
calendula<br />
nasturtiums<br />
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Ummmmm.....I think that's most everything. Yep...It's the best time to plant ever!Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-83962573699585890902012-09-07T09:17:00.000-05:002012-09-07T09:17:41.294-05:00Observations on Hurricane IsaacFirst thing: The storm was waaaaaay underestimated.
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Categorizing hurricanes...well maybe not such a good idea. They each have their own personality, and just because it's winds aren't as fast as another hurricane's winds doesn't mean it can't reek havoc of it's own sort.<br />
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Although Isaac was a category one it packed a large storm surge, and some coastal and riverside communities experienced catastrophic flooding. Katrina like in every way. The truth be told communities along Louisiana's coast are being sacrificed for the protection of "the larger community" ie...Metairie and New Orleans. These smaller communities are referred to as "trade-offs" to achieve "the most efficient use of funds to achieve the greatest benefits". (Louisiana's 2012 Coastal Master Plan - May 22)<br />
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One more reason why you must be responsible for yourself. These same type governing bodies approved the building of neighborhoods in these vulnerable places. Leading people to feel secure in their home purchase. These areas were once included in flood protection and flood protection planning, and now are not. (By the way...not having government flood protection doesn't equal lower property taxes. <em>Yet, anyway</em>)<br />
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If you blindly trust your future and security to government. Then....you are foolish. Government equals people....people are victim to their limited ability to see all sides of an issue. Mostly they see the side that benefits them. Since the majority live on the other side of the wall they feel smug and secure and support the actions of government.<br />
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That's fine. I'll be responsible for myself. Since I live in an area where occasionally a hurricane is inevitable, I make plans to deal with the issue of hurricanes. I'm not complaining.<br />
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But those that feel secure on their "right" side of the wall, be aware that unless coastal restoration is successful the Gulf will creep closer and closer and more and more money will be needed to further strengthen and build higher those walls that protect your precious but small (and literally sinking) and mostly inconsequential investment. .<br />
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With our country trending toward staggering debt, who will have the money to continue this? When will the money be deemed "more efficient" to be used elsewhere. Just asking and wondering.<br />
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On a very practical note...THE PLAN<br />
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Isaac stalled right over our home for hours and hours...dropping torrential rain, endless 90 mile hour wind and pushing a major storm surge. No my house didn't flood. I'm far enough up on the toe of the boot that juts into the Gulf, but just below me the flood waters did start.<br />
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We evacuated. We followed our plans exactly. I must admit...when looking at the daunting task of following our plan I was tempted to skip some steps. You know... <em>"it's just a category one hurricane"</em>. I didn't though (<em>pat pat pat</em> on my back). Some may say it's useless work since my area has never flooded. NOTE: A large area that had never flooded...(due to the new "walls" to protect more populated and valuable areas)...flooded. The water must go somewhere people!<br />
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During the storm our neighbors who did stay were finally issued a mandatory evacuation order and had to leave with nothing but themselves, a few things and pets. The authorities were worried that one of the stressed levees would break.<br />
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After the storm we didn't have power for about a week, and we were some of the last ones to get the power back on. There was a lot of major whining and political grandstanding on the local talk shows.....this actually made me smirk...how long have most areas had electricity? Sixty? Seventy years? People get really testy when they don't have electricity. They're hot, cranky and have no idea how to entertain themselves as they wait for Entergy to fix their power lines and FEMA to deliver water and MRE'S.<br />
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So I was very thank full that we followed our plan! Maybe I'll explain our plan in detail on another post. For those who may want to make their own plan.<br />
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This is my front garden. The shrubs and trees were all stripped of leaves. The shrubs bearing the brunt of the wind were uprooted.<br />
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The top of my tall cypress tree in the back yard dog run snapped off. See the chicken coop in the left hand corner? For practical reasons we couldn't bring our chickens. We loaded them up with food and water before leaving. One grown chicken was killed in the wind. Two young chickens also perished. We also found a dead squirrel in the yard.<br />
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Food that survived in the garden...The medium and small sized citrus managed to maintain about 2/3rds of their fruit in 90 mile winds. The grapefruits were all blown off.<br />
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The satsumas are actually getting ripe and were pretty good!<br />
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The plants in the veggie garden were stripped of most of their leaves and blown to the side. The veggies that did best in the garden were those that were underground of course! Sweet potatoes, ginger and peanuts! The bean plants still look alive but are blown to the ground.<br />
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The figs held on tight as well as some of their leaves. They still look pretty stressed.<br />
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My pears, persimmons and pecans. Kiss them goodbye. They are all on the ground. ALL....<em>sigh</em><br />
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My tropical plants were in tatters. My bamboo stood but looked pretty much like this after as well.<br />
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Some sweet potatoes I dug while cleaning the garden. We won't starve anyway! Smile.<br />
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Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-30694549316899944032012-08-22T11:24:00.000-05:002012-08-22T11:24:26.633-05:00I Want OneI want one of these houses, and a hat like that...and a move to the edge of a deep enchanted forest.......
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/WhYfmqR3L2Q" width="560"></iframe>Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-27300739736739061162012-08-16T07:07:00.001-05:002012-08-16T07:07:26.443-05:00A Walk In The Swamp - Jean Lafitte Preserve - BaratariaI just need to take a walk through the swamp occasionally....beautiful...mysterious...magical....
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<span id="goog_711472222"></span><span id="goog_711472223"></span>Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988385189893016234.post-66389277779963650902012-08-09T22:26:00.000-05:002012-08-09T22:26:10.646-05:00Planting in August...and my Granny Square Afghan<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">July is done with.</span></strong>
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<br /><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Vacation is done with.</span></strong></div>
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<br />August is here and it is time to plant.....To me this is the very best time to plant in our area. It's been extremely humid. The rest of the country is in drought and we're slogging around the yard. The driveway is sopping and I almost got stuck today when I drove slightly off the rocks.<br />
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One worry is the lack of water coming down the Mississippi. Plaquemines has actually declared a "state of emergency". Whatever that means...because salt water is intruding up the river and has came further than the drinking water intake. They're now barging in fresh water.<br />
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Maybe there isn't enough water up river...but here there's too much. On vacation we felt as if we were dragging around a rain cloud. Everywhere we went it rained...these aren't places known for their rain. When we were at the Chaco Culture World Heritage Site in New Mexico...It rained! It was an amazing sight to see. The water cascaded over the edge of the mesa in multiple water falls. They only receive 8 to 10 inches of water a year and it rained while we were there! <em>Here we've received eight inches of rain in one hour before.</em> Yet thousands of people once lived in Chaco. Amazing.<br />
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I've started pulling out the seeds I am going to plant. Here is a list of what to plant now if you are in the New Orleans area.<br />
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Irish Potatoes - Plant whole small potatoes.<br />
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Tomatoes, peppers and eggplants - Plant transplants. (You're eggplants may look good still. Mine do.)<br />
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<strong>Plant the following in small pots or soil squares:</strong> Broccoli, cabbage, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower.<br />
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<strong>Plant the following straight in the garden:</strong> Swiss chard, collards, cucumbers squash, beans, mustard, green beans, southern peas, turnips.<br />
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<br />This year in the spring my neighbor planted Camellia Red beans in her garden as a cover crop. They produced well and she gave me a bag. Fresh red beans are awesome! I never really thought much of red beans and rice. It was nice occasionally, but nothing I craved. Fresh red beans are totally different! They are so much better than the dried ones. Soooo I bought a bag today and I am going to plant some in my fall garden. I certainly will plant some in February as well. I'm impressed.<br />
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Here is what I have done with the granny squares I recently started making with remnants of bright cotton yarn. I did most of these while traveling in the car on vacation. Umm that's a moon and stars melon in the bowl (my centerpiece). Love my little piece of the 70's.<br />
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It was so much fun to make and easy...and the colors are a lot more fun than the mauve and blue ones all matchy I remember hating as a child.....it's still drafty....I remember hating that as a child to....but if I ever get that VW van...I'll have the perfect cover for the loft bed.....<br />
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If you wanna learn here is a link to a cool tutorial...</div>
<a href="http://adaiha.blogspot.com/2011/04/granny-square-tutorial-part-1-basic.html">Good tutorial on how to make a basic granny square. Lots of pics...</a>Kristihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193264926984463232noreply@blogger.com0