There is something rather charming and wonderful about keeping old traditions alive...that will always keep us connected to our hearts and to each other.
Traditions matter.
This Christmas season how about getting in your kitchen and making good Old-Fashioned Popcorn Balls...fun for the whole family to make together!
" Because nothing says love...like something homemade"
OLD-FASHIONED POPCORN BALLS
makes about 20
Ingredients...
18 cups popped popcorn
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup light-colored corn syrup
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla
Prepare your popcorn...popping the right amount. Remove all corn kennels that did not pop... from popped popcorn. Put popcorn in a greased 17 x 12 x 2 inch baking or roasting pan.
For the syrup mixture...butter the sides of a heavy 2-quart saucepan. In saucepan combine sugar...water...corn syrup...vinegar and salt. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until mixture boils..stirring to dissolve sugar...about 6 minutes. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of saucepan Reduce heat to medium...continue boiling at a moderate steady rate...stirring occasionally...until the thermometer registers 250 degrees F...known as the hard-ball stage...about 20 minutes.
Remove saucepan from heat...and remove the thermometer. Stir in vanilla. Pour syrup mixture over the popcorn and stir gently to coat. Cool until the popcorn mixture can be handled easily. With buttered hands...quickly shape the mixture into 2 1/2 inch diameter balls. Wrap each popcorn ball in plastic wrap. Enjoy this old-fashioned Christmas treat!
Love...Victoria
Saturday, December 16, 2017
Sunday, October 1, 2017
OCTOBER BAKING ...WITH SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...SAGE OATCAKES RECIPE 2017
October...is the ideal month to get in the kitchen...and cook...whether that be a slow cooking stew...soup...pot roast...or a great dessert...or snack to enjoy with family and friends.
I fell in love with oatcakes when my family and I traveled to Scotland one year. I couldn't get enough of these tasty and addictive treats...they are quite good. Traditional Scottish oatcakes...are to Scotland...what a baguette is to the French...and is considered to be the bread of Scotland...although it is more like a cookie or sweet cracker. Oatcakes date back as far as the 14th century...and are eaten at breakfast...as a snack or at tea.
My recipe is a wee bit different...than the traditional Scottish recipe...but very good none the less. What makes these so special...is that I have added a good quality dried Sage...which adds such a wonderful taste to these oatcakes.Herbs and desserts pair quite well together...and once you start adding herbs to your desserts...whether fresh or dried...you will taste what I mean.
Did you know that every time you eat herbs...you are ingesting something that is very good for your health? Yep...it is true! Sage is packed with vitamins and minerals...helps with digestive problems...is anti-inflammatory... an aid for depression...memory loss...good for your bones... aids in Alzheimer's disease... and helps in reducing night sweats in menopause... to just name a few of this wonderful herbs healing properties. So enjoy making and then eating these delectable oatcakes (cookies). You can eat these slightly warm...drizzled with honey...or let them cool.
Sage has Vitamin A...Vitamin C...Vitamin E...Vitamin K...and B complex.
Sage also has potassium...zinc...calcium...iron...manganese...cooper...and magnesium. It also contains Thujone...and folic acid.
Remember..."Nothing says love...like something homemade!"
SAGE OATCAKES RECIPE
you can use gluten free oats and flour also for these
*always buy organic herbs...whether dried or fresh
Makes 15 2-inch round oatcakes
1 tablespoon butter for greasing the baking sheets
1/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup honey ( warmed and liquid)
1 1/2 cups rolled oats ( do not use quick oats or instant)...or gluten free
1 cup all-purpose flour...or gluten free flour
1 teaspoon finely ground quality dried Sage leaves
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chilled butter...cut into pieces
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter 2 large baking sheets. Mix the buttermilk and honey together until completely combined. Set aside. Place oats...flour...baking soda...and salt in a medium sized bowl. Add the Sage and mix well.
Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter...cut in the butter until the mixture looks like coarse meal. Add the buttermilk and honey mixture...and stir until it forms a dough.
Form the dough into 2 disks. Set aside one of the disks. Roll out the other disk on a floured surface until it is 1/4 inch in thickness. Using a cookie cutter or a glass...cut out rounds or shapes. Place the cut cookies on the buttered baking sheets.
Gather all the scraps of left over dough...re-roll it and use to cut out more cookies. Then repeat this process with the other dough disk.
Bake the oatcakes 10- 15 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden brown. Do not OVERCOOK!
Cool slightly...eat with honey drizzled on top...or cool completely to enjoy. These will store well in the fridge in a covered container for up to 3 days...but trust me...they will be gone quickly.
Love...
Victoria
I fell in love with oatcakes when my family and I traveled to Scotland one year. I couldn't get enough of these tasty and addictive treats...they are quite good. Traditional Scottish oatcakes...are to Scotland...what a baguette is to the French...and is considered to be the bread of Scotland...although it is more like a cookie or sweet cracker. Oatcakes date back as far as the 14th century...and are eaten at breakfast...as a snack or at tea.
My recipe is a wee bit different...than the traditional Scottish recipe...but very good none the less. What makes these so special...is that I have added a good quality dried Sage...which adds such a wonderful taste to these oatcakes.Herbs and desserts pair quite well together...and once you start adding herbs to your desserts...whether fresh or dried...you will taste what I mean.
Did you know that every time you eat herbs...you are ingesting something that is very good for your health? Yep...it is true! Sage is packed with vitamins and minerals...helps with digestive problems...is anti-inflammatory... an aid for depression...memory loss...good for your bones... aids in Alzheimer's disease... and helps in reducing night sweats in menopause... to just name a few of this wonderful herbs healing properties. So enjoy making and then eating these delectable oatcakes (cookies). You can eat these slightly warm...drizzled with honey...or let them cool.
Sage has Vitamin A...Vitamin C...Vitamin E...Vitamin K...and B complex.
Sage also has potassium...zinc...calcium...iron...manganese...cooper...and magnesium. It also contains Thujone...and folic acid.
Remember..."Nothing says love...like something homemade!"
SAGE OATCAKES RECIPE
you can use gluten free oats and flour also for these
*always buy organic herbs...whether dried or fresh
Makes 15 2-inch round oatcakes
1 tablespoon butter for greasing the baking sheets
1/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup honey ( warmed and liquid)
1 1/2 cups rolled oats ( do not use quick oats or instant)...or gluten free
1 cup all-purpose flour...or gluten free flour
1 teaspoon finely ground quality dried Sage leaves
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chilled butter...cut into pieces
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter 2 large baking sheets. Mix the buttermilk and honey together until completely combined. Set aside. Place oats...flour...baking soda...and salt in a medium sized bowl. Add the Sage and mix well.
Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter...cut in the butter until the mixture looks like coarse meal. Add the buttermilk and honey mixture...and stir until it forms a dough.
Form the dough into 2 disks. Set aside one of the disks. Roll out the other disk on a floured surface until it is 1/4 inch in thickness. Using a cookie cutter or a glass...cut out rounds or shapes. Place the cut cookies on the buttered baking sheets.
Gather all the scraps of left over dough...re-roll it and use to cut out more cookies. Then repeat this process with the other dough disk.
Bake the oatcakes 10- 15 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden brown. Do not OVERCOOK!
Cool slightly...eat with honey drizzled on top...or cool completely to enjoy. These will store well in the fridge in a covered container for up to 3 days...but trust me...they will be gone quickly.
Love...
Victoria
Sunday, September 24, 2017
SEPTEMBER BAKING APPLE CRISP RECIPE 2017
I am back!
I have been absent from my blog writing for far too long! I have actually missed it...and I hope you have missed my posts too. Completing my course to become an herbalist...took many...many months...and all of my focus...but now that I have completed this very fun but intense study...I have the creative energy to write again...on one of my favorite subjects...FOOD!
September is such a lovely month...because it is the beginning of the Fall season. What is more appealing on a nice Fall day or evening...than to get in your kitchen and bake something easy...sweet and oh so good. Apples are plentiful right now...so this is the perfect dessert to make this month. Enjoy!
Nothing says love...like something homemade!
APPLE CRISP
12 servings
3 cups old-fashioned oats
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup cold butter...cubed
8 cups thinly sliced ...and peeled tart apples
1 cup apple cider...divided
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl...mix the oats...flour...brown sugar...and cinnamon...then cut in butter until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish.Next add a layer of the apples...a bit of the oat mixture...and continue layering until ingredients are gone.Top layer needs to be oat mixture. Drizzle with 1/2 cup apple cider over top.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Drizzle with remaining cider...bake 20 minutes longer or until apples are tender. Serve hot with ice cream. Yum!
Love...
Victoria
I have been absent from my blog writing for far too long! I have actually missed it...and I hope you have missed my posts too. Completing my course to become an herbalist...took many...many months...and all of my focus...but now that I have completed this very fun but intense study...I have the creative energy to write again...on one of my favorite subjects...FOOD!
September is such a lovely month...because it is the beginning of the Fall season. What is more appealing on a nice Fall day or evening...than to get in your kitchen and bake something easy...sweet and oh so good. Apples are plentiful right now...so this is the perfect dessert to make this month. Enjoy!
Nothing says love...like something homemade!
APPLE CRISP
12 servings
3 cups old-fashioned oats
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup cold butter...cubed
8 cups thinly sliced ...and peeled tart apples
1 cup apple cider...divided
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl...mix the oats...flour...brown sugar...and cinnamon...then cut in butter until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish.Next add a layer of the apples...a bit of the oat mixture...and continue layering until ingredients are gone.Top layer needs to be oat mixture. Drizzle with 1/2 cup apple cider over top.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Drizzle with remaining cider...bake 20 minutes longer or until apples are tender. Serve hot with ice cream. Yum!
Love...
Victoria
Sunday, June 11, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS STRAWBERRY SKILLET CAKE JUNE 2017
The month of June strawberries are in season...and they are such a wonderful fruit to make really good and easy fruit desserts.
As many of you who follow my blog... already know...I love cooking in my cast iron skillets for just about any recipe...and this includes desserts.
Below is a mighty tasty Strawberry Skillet Cake...that everyone will rave about! And remember "Nothing says love like something homemade."
STRAWBERRY SKILLET CAKE
makes 1 9-inch cake
1/2 cup unsalted butter...softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar...divided
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
1 pound fresh strawberries...cleaned and halved
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.Lightly grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet with olive oil...using a pastry brush or dry paper towel. Next lightly flour the bottom and sides of the skillet with flour...shaking out any excess.
In a large bowl beat the ONE cup sugar ( the other 1/4 cup is for topping) and the butter at medium speed until light and fluffy...about 3 to 4 minutes...stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl.Add the eggs...one at a time...beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla.
In a medium bowl...whisk together the flour...baking powder and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter mixture in the large bowl...beating at low speed...until combined...then gradually add the sour cream...combing at low speed. Next gently fold in the strawberries...until well combined.
Spread the batter into the greased and floured cast iron skillet. Sprinkle the top with the remaining sugar.
Bake for about 35 minutes...or until a knife placed in the center comes out clean. Take out of the oven...let cool completely...and serve right from the skillet...topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream...enjoy!
Love...
Victoria
As many of you who follow my blog... already know...I love cooking in my cast iron skillets for just about any recipe...and this includes desserts.
Below is a mighty tasty Strawberry Skillet Cake...that everyone will rave about! And remember "Nothing says love like something homemade."
STRAWBERRY SKILLET CAKE
makes 1 9-inch cake
1/2 cup unsalted butter...softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar...divided
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
1 pound fresh strawberries...cleaned and halved
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.Lightly grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet with olive oil...using a pastry brush or dry paper towel. Next lightly flour the bottom and sides of the skillet with flour...shaking out any excess.
In a large bowl beat the ONE cup sugar ( the other 1/4 cup is for topping) and the butter at medium speed until light and fluffy...about 3 to 4 minutes...stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl.Add the eggs...one at a time...beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla.
In a medium bowl...whisk together the flour...baking powder and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter mixture in the large bowl...beating at low speed...until combined...then gradually add the sour cream...combing at low speed. Next gently fold in the strawberries...until well combined.
Spread the batter into the greased and floured cast iron skillet. Sprinkle the top with the remaining sugar.
Bake for about 35 minutes...or until a knife placed in the center comes out clean. Take out of the oven...let cool completely...and serve right from the skillet...topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream...enjoy!
Love...
Victoria
Saturday, June 10, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS A FRENCH CHOCOLATE CAKE RECIPE 2017
Chocolate cake is just one of those things...that is always in fashion...always popular...and has a very long history in food traditions...around the world.
A good chocolate cake is always in season...and the below recipe is one of the best recipes I have ever made for chocolate cake...as well as for the taste.
This is a French chocolate cake recipe...very rich...very simple to make...and it uses very little flour. The butter gives this cake its richness...and the almond meal is an ingredient that I have come to love...and you will love the flavor and texture it gives to baked goods.
Please use a very good quality dark chocolate...it makes a huge difference. And keep in mind...a very small slice of this cake will do...it is very rich.
FRENCH CHOCOLATE CAKE
serves 12
9 ounces dark chocolate...70 percent caco
14 tablespoons butter ( I prefer unsalted butter...but use what you like)
6 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 scant cup almond meal
1/3 cup flour or gluten free flour
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of an 11 inch cake or springform pan with a disk of wax paper.. or buttered parchment paper. Melt the chocolate and butter...on very low heat or use a double boiler to melt.....constantly stirring so it does not burn. Once it is melted set aside to cool...a bit.
Next separate the eggs the eggs...the yolks going into one large bowl...the egg whites in another large bowl. Put the egg whites into the fridge...and then whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until a light lemon yellow.
In a small bowl stir together the almond meal and the flour.
Add the warm chocolate mixture to the egg yolks and whisk quickly and thoroughly to combine. Add the flour and almond meal mixture and fold in with a spatula...just enough to combine.
Take the egg whites out of the fridge...and beat the egg whites until they hold a stiff peak.Using a spatula or a wooden spoon...gently fold HALF the egg whites into the chocolate mixture...then fold in the rest.
Pour prepared cake batter into the pan...and bake on the center rack of your oven for 15 minutes.After baking the cake mixture for 15 minutes...turn off the heat and let the cake rest in the oven for 10 minutes...with the oven door slightly ajar. The cake will not look done when you take it out...so do not be concerned. Cool completely on a wire rack in the cake pan...the texture of the cake will set as it cools. Gently take the cake out of its pan...with the same method you use to remove any cake after cooling...and set it out on a cake dish. This cake tastes even better the next day...if it lasts that long!
Love...
Victoria
A good chocolate cake is always in season...and the below recipe is one of the best recipes I have ever made for chocolate cake...as well as for the taste.
This is a French chocolate cake recipe...very rich...very simple to make...and it uses very little flour. The butter gives this cake its richness...and the almond meal is an ingredient that I have come to love...and you will love the flavor and texture it gives to baked goods.
Please use a very good quality dark chocolate...it makes a huge difference. And keep in mind...a very small slice of this cake will do...it is very rich.
FRENCH CHOCOLATE CAKE
serves 12
9 ounces dark chocolate...70 percent caco
14 tablespoons butter ( I prefer unsalted butter...but use what you like)
6 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 scant cup almond meal
1/3 cup flour or gluten free flour
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of an 11 inch cake or springform pan with a disk of wax paper.. or buttered parchment paper. Melt the chocolate and butter...on very low heat or use a double boiler to melt.....constantly stirring so it does not burn. Once it is melted set aside to cool...a bit.
Next separate the eggs the eggs...the yolks going into one large bowl...the egg whites in another large bowl. Put the egg whites into the fridge...and then whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until a light lemon yellow.
In a small bowl stir together the almond meal and the flour.
Add the warm chocolate mixture to the egg yolks and whisk quickly and thoroughly to combine. Add the flour and almond meal mixture and fold in with a spatula...just enough to combine.
Take the egg whites out of the fridge...and beat the egg whites until they hold a stiff peak.Using a spatula or a wooden spoon...gently fold HALF the egg whites into the chocolate mixture...then fold in the rest.
Pour prepared cake batter into the pan...and bake on the center rack of your oven for 15 minutes.After baking the cake mixture for 15 minutes...turn off the heat and let the cake rest in the oven for 10 minutes...with the oven door slightly ajar. The cake will not look done when you take it out...so do not be concerned. Cool completely on a wire rack in the cake pan...the texture of the cake will set as it cools. Gently take the cake out of its pan...with the same method you use to remove any cake after cooling...and set it out on a cake dish. This cake tastes even better the next day...if it lasts that long!
Love...
Victoria
Wednesday, May 10, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS MAY 2017 MOTHER'S DAY COCONUT MACAROONS
Today I will continue my May posts...with the focus on Mother's Day...and Mothering...by sharing a very easy and delicious recipe for homemade Coconut Macaroons...because "nothing says love...like something homemade."
Mom will love these homemade treats...made with love. These are so easy to make...even an inexperienced baker can make them.
COCONUT MACAROONS
Makes 20 to 24 cookies
14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 extra-large egg whites...at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine until mixed... the coconut ...condensed milk...and vanilla in a large bowl. Whip the egg whites and salt on high speed in a standing mixer or a hand held mixer until the egg whites make medium-firm peaks.Carefully fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture.
Drop the batter onto sheet pans lined with parchment paper using a small spoon. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes...until golden brown. Cool and serve. Enjoy!
Happy Mothers's Day
Victoria
Mom will love these homemade treats...made with love. These are so easy to make...even an inexperienced baker can make them.
COCONUT MACAROONS
Makes 20 to 24 cookies
14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 extra-large egg whites...at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine until mixed... the coconut ...condensed milk...and vanilla in a large bowl. Whip the egg whites and salt on high speed in a standing mixer or a hand held mixer until the egg whites make medium-firm peaks.Carefully fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture.
Drop the batter onto sheet pans lined with parchment paper using a small spoon. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes...until golden brown. Cool and serve. Enjoy!
Happy Mothers's Day
Victoria
Thursday, May 4, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...MOTHERS DAY GIFTS FROM THE HEART 2017
Mother's Day is May 14th...and this is such a loving tribute to Mom's...and for all they give and do each and every moment for their children.
This Mother's Day...instead of going to a store or shopping on-line...try another approach to your gift giving for your Mom...give her natural...simple...and meaningful gifts from your heart.
Here are a few creative gift ideas for your Mom this Mother's Day...
1...Plant a tree in her honor...including a tree planting celebration. Just gather your Mom...and everyone you want included... around the tree...and have everyone say a message of gratitude for your Mom...then plant the tree together..bless it...and your Mom.
2. Give your Mom a Rosemary bush...an herb of remembrance...as a reminder that everything she does for you...and will do for you...will always be remembered.
3. Plant a beautiful Rose bush...in your Mom's honor.
4. Make a sweet and loving Mother's Day book for her...having everyone write a beautiful message to Mom...including pictures of you...and all other of her children.
5. Take a large mason jar...decorate it...write MOM across the front...and then fill it with little messages of gratitude to her...for how much you love and appreciate her.
6. Make a collage of appreciation for Mom...adding words and pictures of what she means to you.
7. Bake her a homemade cake...with candles...to celebrate her.
8. Write her a poem.
9. Write her a love letter...about how you feel about her...then put it in an envelope...and place dried Lavender...or Roses in the envelope for beauty...and a lovely scent.
Happy Mother's Day to you,
Victoria
This Mother's Day...instead of going to a store or shopping on-line...try another approach to your gift giving for your Mom...give her natural...simple...and meaningful gifts from your heart.
Here are a few creative gift ideas for your Mom this Mother's Day...
1...Plant a tree in her honor...including a tree planting celebration. Just gather your Mom...and everyone you want included... around the tree...and have everyone say a message of gratitude for your Mom...then plant the tree together..bless it...and your Mom.
2. Give your Mom a Rosemary bush...an herb of remembrance...as a reminder that everything she does for you...and will do for you...will always be remembered.
3. Plant a beautiful Rose bush...in your Mom's honor.
4. Make a sweet and loving Mother's Day book for her...having everyone write a beautiful message to Mom...including pictures of you...and all other of her children.
5. Take a large mason jar...decorate it...write MOM across the front...and then fill it with little messages of gratitude to her...for how much you love and appreciate her.
6. Make a collage of appreciation for Mom...adding words and pictures of what she means to you.
7. Bake her a homemade cake...with candles...to celebrate her.
8. Write her a poem.
9. Write her a love letter...about how you feel about her...then put it in an envelope...and place dried Lavender...or Roses in the envelope for beauty...and a lovely scent.
Happy Mother's Day to you,
Victoria
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS MAY 2017
May is all about life...nurturing and of course is Mother's Day month. So with that in mind...I wanted to make my blog this May all about Mothering...not just about your own Mother...but ways you can nurture and Mother yourself...as well.
It is a wise woman who knows...that she must practice self-care and take time for herself...including soothing and nurturing rituals...for well-being... and acts of self love.
Begin each and every morning with a prayer of thankfulness for the gift of being alive...and being you!
After your morning prayer...look into a mirror...and out loud tell yourself with feeling "I love You and accept you...just the way I am."
Be thankful for you!
Give yourself permission to let go of always having to be busy or productive...and allow time each day...to experience the beauty...and joys of just being alive. Learn to value yourself for who you are...not how much you work inside or outside your home or how much money you make...or what your physical appearance is or isn't.
You are worthy!
Become mindful of what your thoughts are and what you say to yourself...and learn to think kind and loving thoughts about yourself. Be your own best friend...and verbally give yourself praise and much needed compliments!
You are deserving!
Stop trying to be like your friends...and just be who you are! This is true personal freedom...when you let go of trying to keep up with your friends...or are in a constant state of envy about what others have or what they have accomplished in their lives.
You are important!
Focus on gratitude for everything you are...and that you have...because truth is...it is quite a lot. Complaining about your life...will get you no where...and brings your attitude and body chemistry to a very low and negative level.
Be grateful!
Nurture your body...with gentle exercise each day...and it goes without saying fuel your body with healthy food. You do not have to go to the extreme with this...just eat smarter and better. Get out in nature more. Nature is good for your soul...and connecting with the natural world also balances your mind...and body...and gives you a sense of calm. Recent studies confirm that being in nature reduces your stress levels...so please honor yourself... and enjoy nature each and everyday.
Return to nature!
Take long soaks whenever you can...soaking in a nice bath nurtures you in body...mind...and spirit. Add a few drops of pure essential oil of your choice...light candles around the tub...and relax. After your bath soak..massage a nice lotion on your body...to sooth your skin...and pamper yourself.
ROSE AND MILK BATH
2 cup milk
2 cups rose petals
For a soothing and very pretty bath soak...that will make you feel special...because you are...try this wonderful bath.
Run your bath water...and add the milk to the water. When tub is full...sprinkle in the rose petals... and get into the tub. Indulge in this bath...fit for a Queen!
Pamper yourself!
Embrace your creativity...no matter what it is! When you honor your creative self...you are honoring your inner spirit...and expressing yourself. A person can become very dull...and out of balance when they do not allow joy into their lives...and creativity is such a powerful way to experience joy as well as pleasure.
Embrace your creativity!
A wonderful and insightful way to nurture yourself...is for you... to spend quiet time and solitude on a regular basis. Sometimes getting away from it all...by yourself is the most loving gift you can give to you. I often have the most clarity as well as inspiration...by taking an afternoon off...and going to a park...or a museum...solo. Or just sitting outside with a glass of water...listening to my own inner voice...not needing anything else...but the quiet...nature...and solitude... to nurture my whole being...and recharge my spirit.
Allow quiet and solitude for yourself!
End each day...before you retire...by saying a blessing prayer to yourself...for yourself. Thank your body for all it did for you that day...thank yourself for thinking and saying kind and loving thoughts and words towards yourself as you went about your day and evening. Thank yourself for all the love you gave and received that day...and the gift of just being you...and being alive.
Say a prayer for yourself before you retire each evening!
I hope some of my nurturing rituals will inspire you to always Mother yourself...and take care of yourself in simple natural ways. You are important...deserving and worthy of self care...each and every day!
Happy Mothering,
Victoria
It is a wise woman who knows...that she must practice self-care and take time for herself...including soothing and nurturing rituals...for well-being... and acts of self love.
Begin each and every morning with a prayer of thankfulness for the gift of being alive...and being you!
After your morning prayer...look into a mirror...and out loud tell yourself with feeling "I love You and accept you...just the way I am."
Be thankful for you!
Give yourself permission to let go of always having to be busy or productive...and allow time each day...to experience the beauty...and joys of just being alive. Learn to value yourself for who you are...not how much you work inside or outside your home or how much money you make...or what your physical appearance is or isn't.
You are worthy!
Become mindful of what your thoughts are and what you say to yourself...and learn to think kind and loving thoughts about yourself. Be your own best friend...and verbally give yourself praise and much needed compliments!
You are deserving!
Stop trying to be like your friends...and just be who you are! This is true personal freedom...when you let go of trying to keep up with your friends...or are in a constant state of envy about what others have or what they have accomplished in their lives.
You are important!
Focus on gratitude for everything you are...and that you have...because truth is...it is quite a lot. Complaining about your life...will get you no where...and brings your attitude and body chemistry to a very low and negative level.
Be grateful!
Nurture your body...with gentle exercise each day...and it goes without saying fuel your body with healthy food. You do not have to go to the extreme with this...just eat smarter and better. Get out in nature more. Nature is good for your soul...and connecting with the natural world also balances your mind...and body...and gives you a sense of calm. Recent studies confirm that being in nature reduces your stress levels...so please honor yourself... and enjoy nature each and everyday.
Return to nature!
Take long soaks whenever you can...soaking in a nice bath nurtures you in body...mind...and spirit. Add a few drops of pure essential oil of your choice...light candles around the tub...and relax. After your bath soak..massage a nice lotion on your body...to sooth your skin...and pamper yourself.
ROSE AND MILK BATH
2 cup milk
2 cups rose petals
For a soothing and very pretty bath soak...that will make you feel special...because you are...try this wonderful bath.
Run your bath water...and add the milk to the water. When tub is full...sprinkle in the rose petals... and get into the tub. Indulge in this bath...fit for a Queen!
Pamper yourself!
Embrace your creativity...no matter what it is! When you honor your creative self...you are honoring your inner spirit...and expressing yourself. A person can become very dull...and out of balance when they do not allow joy into their lives...and creativity is such a powerful way to experience joy as well as pleasure.
Embrace your creativity!
A wonderful and insightful way to nurture yourself...is for you... to spend quiet time and solitude on a regular basis. Sometimes getting away from it all...by yourself is the most loving gift you can give to you. I often have the most clarity as well as inspiration...by taking an afternoon off...and going to a park...or a museum...solo. Or just sitting outside with a glass of water...listening to my own inner voice...not needing anything else...but the quiet...nature...and solitude... to nurture my whole being...and recharge my spirit.
Allow quiet and solitude for yourself!
End each day...before you retire...by saying a blessing prayer to yourself...for yourself. Thank your body for all it did for you that day...thank yourself for thinking and saying kind and loving thoughts and words towards yourself as you went about your day and evening. Thank yourself for all the love you gave and received that day...and the gift of just being you...and being alive.
Say a prayer for yourself before you retire each evening!
I hope some of my nurturing rituals will inspire you to always Mother yourself...and take care of yourself in simple natural ways. You are important...deserving and worthy of self care...each and every day!
Happy Mothering,
Victoria
Thursday, April 13, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS EASTER COCONUT BUTTERMILK POUND CAKE 2017
Happy Easter to you...Everyone loves a good piece of cake after Easter dinner...or at anytime for that matter...and this cake is sure to be a winner. The buttermilk in this cake recipe makes this pound cake very moist. Enjoy!
Remember..."nothing says love...like something homemade!"
Please be sure to toast the coconut...just place it in a dry pan...and gently cook until it is lightly browned.
I often use olive oil to grease my cakes...cornbread etc. Just add a wee bit...to a clean paper towel and then wipe it on pans or parchment paper. It works very well.
COCONUT BUTTERMILK POUND CAKE
makes 2 loaves
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter...softened
3 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup whole buttermilk
2 cups sweetened flaked coconut...toasted and divided
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Butter or use olive oil...to grease the loaf pans...and then dust with flour...shake off excess flour. Line the loaf pans with parchment paper...letting excess extend over the loaf pans. Lightly coat the parchment paper with butter or olive oil again.
In a large bowl of a stand mixer...or a large bowl for a hand held mixer...beat the butter and granulated sugar at medium speed or until it is fluffy...3 to 4 minutes...stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl. Next add the eggs...one at a time...beating well after each egg.
In another medium bowl...whisk together the flour... salt...and baking powder.On low speed gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture...and also little by little add the buttermilk...beating just enough to combine ingredients. Next...beat in 1 1/4 cups of the toasted coconut and the vanilla. Divide the batter into the 2 prepared pans.
Place in a COLD oven. Bake at 300 degrees for about 1 hour and 15 minutes...or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let the cakes...cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Gently remove cakes from pans and let cool completely on wire racks.
In a medium bowl whisk together the confectioners' sugar...coconut milk...and lemon juice.Drizzle this glaze over the pound cakes...then to finish off the cakes sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut on top.
Remember..."nothing says love...like something homemade!"
Please be sure to toast the coconut...just place it in a dry pan...and gently cook until it is lightly browned.
I often use olive oil to grease my cakes...cornbread etc. Just add a wee bit...to a clean paper towel and then wipe it on pans or parchment paper. It works very well.
COCONUT BUTTERMILK POUND CAKE
makes 2 loaves
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter...softened
3 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup whole buttermilk
2 cups sweetened flaked coconut...toasted and divided
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Butter or use olive oil...to grease the loaf pans...and then dust with flour...shake off excess flour. Line the loaf pans with parchment paper...letting excess extend over the loaf pans. Lightly coat the parchment paper with butter or olive oil again.
In a large bowl of a stand mixer...or a large bowl for a hand held mixer...beat the butter and granulated sugar at medium speed or until it is fluffy...3 to 4 minutes...stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl. Next add the eggs...one at a time...beating well after each egg.
In another medium bowl...whisk together the flour... salt...and baking powder.On low speed gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture...and also little by little add the buttermilk...beating just enough to combine ingredients. Next...beat in 1 1/4 cups of the toasted coconut and the vanilla. Divide the batter into the 2 prepared pans.
Place in a COLD oven. Bake at 300 degrees for about 1 hour and 15 minutes...or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let the cakes...cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Gently remove cakes from pans and let cool completely on wire racks.
In a medium bowl whisk together the confectioners' sugar...coconut milk...and lemon juice.Drizzle this glaze over the pound cakes...then to finish off the cakes sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut on top.
Saturday, April 1, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS APRIL 2017
April musings... This month is so full of natural beauty...bursting forth upon the land...that I fall in love each April...a little deeper with life...and nature herself. I remember as a young girl...in California where I was born and raised...how much I loved to be outside. I couldn't wait to eat breakfast...get dressed...and then disappear for hours on end... in the out doors. Sometimes with my siblings...but most of the time by myself. I preferred it this way... even then as a young child...I loved solitude too...and solitude...combined with the natural world...was and still is bliss to me.
It is in nature...and that includes my garden...where I find personal freedom...and the freedom of my spirit...not the confines of walls... or anything in the material world.
The natural world seems to bring out the best in me...and also offers me the very best...of what wonder...life...inspiration...creativity...and the belief of a Higher Power... really are. I can not tell you how many times in my life...that I have sought nature...to heal...to reflect...and to seek solutions to my life challenges. And without a doubt...being in nature has brought me so very many good times...and so many wonderful memories and joy...too.
As a writer...I write a lot...constantly. And with any writer...I have my moments...and sometimes even days...when I have a writers block...which is frustrating. When I have these moments...of not feeling creative with my words...I head out to my garden...to pulls weeds...to tend to my flowers...or to just sit...and ponder. Sometimes...though...I head to a favorite garden center where I live. A really laid back and quirky place...where they know me,..and just allow me to wander...touch and smell...all the pretty plants...flowers...and herbs.You know...they give me my space.
Like some kind of magical green wand...my nurturing time in nature...or in my garden...recharges me...soothes me...and opens my heart and mind...restoring the balance I need...the grounding I need... and my inspiration to write...is reawakened...because of my time spent in the most creative and inspiring canvas of all...Mother Earth.
You see nature...is wise...and can be trusted day after day...year after year...to reflect back to you with each changing season...what and when you need to start something...to grow or change...or to completely let it go. Nature is a loving teacher...a constant companion...a loyal and giving best friend...to you...to humanity...and to all living things and creatures.
My wish for you this April...is for you to find your way back...to the natural world. To renew and rebirth...that part of you...that knows deep within your very DNA...as well as in your soul... that you are part of nature...you need nature...to thrive and grow and have well-being in your life. It is no accident...that everything in nature was created...to sustain all life...to feed you...give you water... clothe you...give you medicine...as well as to inspire your soul with beauty...and enliven all your senses with the greatest of pleasures.
To be alive...is to be in love with nature... and when you experience and witness nature... you open up your knowing that nature is your teacher... and with the Earth...you will grow wise...grounded...and balanced...just the way nature intended.
April Blessings to you,
Victoria
POEM FOR APRIL...
April brings the Primrose sweet
Scatters Daises at our feet.
by Sara Coleridge
PRAYER FOR APRIL..." I ask for guidance and wisdom...in helping me to take steps to begin my goals...projects and personal change."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL...
April 1st...April Fool's Day...April 2nd... World Auctism Day...April 14th...Good Friday...April 16th...Easter...April 22nd...Earth Day...
FACTS ABOUT APRIL...
The name of the month of April is derived from the Greek word for "opening"
FOLKLORE ABOUT APRIL...
April weather rain and sunshine
both together
April is no month for burials
By Leo Cox...Rite of Spring
TRADITIONAL EASTER FOODS EATEN WORLD WIDE...
In the United Kingdom...Hot Cross Buns are eaten on Good Friday.
In Italy salty pretzels are traditionally eaten at Easter time.
A traditional Greek Easter Cake is made with oranges and almonds. It is eaten with a spicy orange sauce poured over it. Lamb soup is also often eaten for Easter breakfast.
GARDENING TIPS...
Mow your yards and fields...fertilize your lawns...plant summer vegetables...plant seeds...weed.
HOMEMAKING TIP...
Vacuum all your blinds and curtains... then clean all your inside windows...with white vinegar. Clean all your mirrors with white vinegar too...and wipe off and clean bathroom lighting...but be sure to have lights off when you do the cleaning.
FULL MOON...April 26th
FLOWERS... The pretty Daisy and Sweetpea
GEMS...The Garnet and Ruby
TEACHINGS...This month is perfect for taking the necessary steps to get your goals...projects...and wishes going. Also work on personal inner change...that will help you achieve your goals.
GOOD THINGS JAR
It is so easy to get caught up in the negative in today's world...and sometimes we need a gentle nudge to remind us of all the good...as well as the good things that happen to and for us each and every day.
Why not make yourself... A GOOD THINGS THINGS jar...by taking a clean and dry jar or bottle...decorating it if you wish...and then each and every day...write out one good thing that happened for you that day...and then place in your Good Things Jar.
This is a wonderful visual reminder of ALL good things you really do have in your life...on a daily basis. Do this simple but heart warming celebration of your Good Things Jar...for one full year...and at the end of the full year...read through each slip of paper...to reflect and acknowledge all you have in your life that are GOOD.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Put daises in small vases...and set them on all your window sills. Put a big bunch of fresh Rosemary in a vase...and set it on your kitchen table instead of flowers this month.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
April being such a very pretty and sweet month...I though I would give you a wonderful honey ice cream recipe to make!
HONEY ICE CREAM
Makes 1 quart
2 vanilla beans
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup clover honey
Flatten the vanilla beans and cut them in half lengthwise.With a small spoon scrape out the vanilla seeds. Place the seeds and pods in a large saucepan. Add the cream...the whole milk and honey and stir to dissolve the honey. Heat over moderate heat...stirring from time to time just until tiny bubbles form around the edges of the pan...about 3-4 minutes.
Remove from heat and let steep...covered for 1 hour. Keep covered and refrigerate...until completely chilled ( make sure you do this step).
Take out of the fridge when completely cold...and remove the vanilla pods. Stir again to blend. Transfer to an ice cream maker and process according to ice cream maker directions. When finished making the ice cream...place the finished ice cream in a container with a lid...and place into the freezer...to keep cold...and to firm up...until you are ready to serve. This is so good...you will make it again and again.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Pamper yourself this month...by learning something new...taking that class you have always wanted to take...experiment with art...explore a new culture through books and cooking their food traditions...take up meditation or yoga...start a garden. All of these help open you open to new possibilities...and personal growth.
It is in nature...and that includes my garden...where I find personal freedom...and the freedom of my spirit...not the confines of walls... or anything in the material world.
The natural world seems to bring out the best in me...and also offers me the very best...of what wonder...life...inspiration...creativity...and the belief of a Higher Power... really are. I can not tell you how many times in my life...that I have sought nature...to heal...to reflect...and to seek solutions to my life challenges. And without a doubt...being in nature has brought me so very many good times...and so many wonderful memories and joy...too.
As a writer...I write a lot...constantly. And with any writer...I have my moments...and sometimes even days...when I have a writers block...which is frustrating. When I have these moments...of not feeling creative with my words...I head out to my garden...to pulls weeds...to tend to my flowers...or to just sit...and ponder. Sometimes...though...I head to a favorite garden center where I live. A really laid back and quirky place...where they know me,..and just allow me to wander...touch and smell...all the pretty plants...flowers...and herbs.You know...they give me my space.
Like some kind of magical green wand...my nurturing time in nature...or in my garden...recharges me...soothes me...and opens my heart and mind...restoring the balance I need...the grounding I need... and my inspiration to write...is reawakened...because of my time spent in the most creative and inspiring canvas of all...Mother Earth.
You see nature...is wise...and can be trusted day after day...year after year...to reflect back to you with each changing season...what and when you need to start something...to grow or change...or to completely let it go. Nature is a loving teacher...a constant companion...a loyal and giving best friend...to you...to humanity...and to all living things and creatures.
My wish for you this April...is for you to find your way back...to the natural world. To renew and rebirth...that part of you...that knows deep within your very DNA...as well as in your soul... that you are part of nature...you need nature...to thrive and grow and have well-being in your life. It is no accident...that everything in nature was created...to sustain all life...to feed you...give you water... clothe you...give you medicine...as well as to inspire your soul with beauty...and enliven all your senses with the greatest of pleasures.
To be alive...is to be in love with nature... and when you experience and witness nature... you open up your knowing that nature is your teacher... and with the Earth...you will grow wise...grounded...and balanced...just the way nature intended.
April Blessings to you,
Victoria
POEM FOR APRIL...
April brings the Primrose sweet
Scatters Daises at our feet.
by Sara Coleridge
PRAYER FOR APRIL..." I ask for guidance and wisdom...in helping me to take steps to begin my goals...projects and personal change."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL...
April 1st...April Fool's Day...April 2nd... World Auctism Day...April 14th...Good Friday...April 16th...Easter...April 22nd...Earth Day...
FACTS ABOUT APRIL...
The name of the month of April is derived from the Greek word for "opening"
FOLKLORE ABOUT APRIL...
April weather rain and sunshine
both together
April is no month for burials
By Leo Cox...Rite of Spring
TRADITIONAL EASTER FOODS EATEN WORLD WIDE...
In the United Kingdom...Hot Cross Buns are eaten on Good Friday.
In Italy salty pretzels are traditionally eaten at Easter time.
A traditional Greek Easter Cake is made with oranges and almonds. It is eaten with a spicy orange sauce poured over it. Lamb soup is also often eaten for Easter breakfast.
GARDENING TIPS...
Mow your yards and fields...fertilize your lawns...plant summer vegetables...plant seeds...weed.
HOMEMAKING TIP...
Vacuum all your blinds and curtains... then clean all your inside windows...with white vinegar. Clean all your mirrors with white vinegar too...and wipe off and clean bathroom lighting...but be sure to have lights off when you do the cleaning.
FULL MOON...April 26th
FLOWERS... The pretty Daisy and Sweetpea
GEMS...The Garnet and Ruby
TEACHINGS...This month is perfect for taking the necessary steps to get your goals...projects...and wishes going. Also work on personal inner change...that will help you achieve your goals.
GOOD THINGS JAR
It is so easy to get caught up in the negative in today's world...and sometimes we need a gentle nudge to remind us of all the good...as well as the good things that happen to and for us each and every day.
Why not make yourself... A GOOD THINGS THINGS jar...by taking a clean and dry jar or bottle...decorating it if you wish...and then each and every day...write out one good thing that happened for you that day...and then place in your Good Things Jar.
This is a wonderful visual reminder of ALL good things you really do have in your life...on a daily basis. Do this simple but heart warming celebration of your Good Things Jar...for one full year...and at the end of the full year...read through each slip of paper...to reflect and acknowledge all you have in your life that are GOOD.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Put daises in small vases...and set them on all your window sills. Put a big bunch of fresh Rosemary in a vase...and set it on your kitchen table instead of flowers this month.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
April being such a very pretty and sweet month...I though I would give you a wonderful honey ice cream recipe to make!
HONEY ICE CREAM
Makes 1 quart
2 vanilla beans
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup clover honey
Flatten the vanilla beans and cut them in half lengthwise.With a small spoon scrape out the vanilla seeds. Place the seeds and pods in a large saucepan. Add the cream...the whole milk and honey and stir to dissolve the honey. Heat over moderate heat...stirring from time to time just until tiny bubbles form around the edges of the pan...about 3-4 minutes.
Remove from heat and let steep...covered for 1 hour. Keep covered and refrigerate...until completely chilled ( make sure you do this step).
Take out of the fridge when completely cold...and remove the vanilla pods. Stir again to blend. Transfer to an ice cream maker and process according to ice cream maker directions. When finished making the ice cream...place the finished ice cream in a container with a lid...and place into the freezer...to keep cold...and to firm up...until you are ready to serve. This is so good...you will make it again and again.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Pamper yourself this month...by learning something new...taking that class you have always wanted to take...experiment with art...explore a new culture through books and cooking their food traditions...take up meditation or yoga...start a garden. All of these help open you open to new possibilities...and personal growth.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS MARCH 2017
March musings... This month always makes me want to play hookie and play outside all day...in my garden.. or taking walks...blowing bubbles...and just having fun. Call it Spring fever if you like...all I know is I cannot get enough of the sky...the Earth...and the gentle whisper of renewal that is in the air this lovely month of March.
My garden awaits me this month... calling to me...to weed...rake pine needles...and then plant a few new Rose bushes...one of them being a really pretty climbing Rose bush I bought for my hubby on Valentine's Day...a symbol of my love for him...to keep growing...year after year.
Of course...there is my herb garden...which I tend to each day...as they need constant watering and looking after. I use them almost daily in my cooking...and I love to add fresh Rosemary sprigs to my flower arrangements...and add to a bath to soak in. I am studying right now to become certified in medicinal herbs...so I do spend hours each week in class and then preparing herbal mixtures...which my course demands as part of my study and homework. I am loving this course so much...something I have wanted to do for many years...and am finally able to give myself.
There are still photos to take this month...of all my antiques I offer each Friday on my social media page...and with the light now brighter... in March...it will make picture taking so much easier. Hopefully...my on-line shop will get yet closer...to opening...if my photos turn out well...and the March light continues to shine through my windows.
My Seasonal Living e-course is almost complete... and I will continue writing and working on it's pages this month. This has been a year long writing project...my baby so to speak...and a project dear to my heart...as I am a firm believer in living by the changing seasons...for personal well-being and balance.. as well as a wise... resourceful means of living....and I am so excited to share it with you. Look for it when it launches on my website this Summer.
I am really wanting March to be a month of creativity for myself...as you can see. I am in a wonderful season in my life...where I want to renew that spark within myself... of my creative self...more. Perhaps like you...there are certain things I have longed to do...from my heart...and soul...that I put on a back burner...or denied myself...because I was too busy raising kids...or raising myself for that matter...that I never allowed myself the space or time... to pursue goals or creative projects that my inner spirit kept nudging me to start....until now.
That my heart called me to do.
I am sharing with you...my story...and my wonderful creative pursuits and yes dreams with you...that will fill my days this month... not only because I am excited...that I will be doing them...but because I also want to encourage you...to give yourself permission to pursue your own dreams...your own goals...that you have pushed aside...or not allowed yourself to have or begin.
Life ...your life...is meant to bring you joy...and happiness...and you have gifts and talents that no one else has...to express not only for yourself...but to share to the world. Just begin them...one creative step at a time...one day at a time.
Renew your life this March...embrace your creative self...and shine your light.
Because you are worth it...your life is worth it.
And you are needed in the world!
To your renewal,
Victoria
POEM...
" The afternoon is bright
with Spring in the air,
A mild March afternoon
With the breathy of April stirring,
I am alone in the quiet patio
Looking for some old untrue illusion-
Some shadow on the whiteness of the wall
Some memory asleep
On the stone rim of the fountain,
Perhaps in the air
The light swish of some trailing gown."
by Antonio Machado
PRAYER..." I ask for the courage to open myself to renewal of my body...mind...and spirit."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF MONTH...March 1st...Ash Wednesday... March 3rd...World Day Of Prayer...March 8th...International Woman's Day... March 12th...Jewish Purim... March 17th...St. Patrick's Day...March 21st...Spring Equinox.
FACTS ABOUT MARCH... The month of March was named for the Roman god of war...because in ancient Rome this was the month to resume military campaigns that had been interrupted by Winter.
FOLKLORE ABOUT MARCH... So many misties in March...so many frosties in May.
GARDENING TIPS FOR MARCH... Plant your potted trees and shrubs...and use a root starter after you plant them...to help them not go into shock. Fertilize your lawns. Plant your Spring flowers and veggies. Mow...rake...and pull any weeds.
HOMEMAKING TIP...Spring clean your whole house. Clean out your kitchen cupboards...wiping them down with pure Lemon or Orange Essential oil...dry...and then put down new shelf paper.
FULL MOON FOR MARCH...March 12th
FLOWERS FOR MARCH...The Daffodil is one of the flowers this month...and this pretty and sunny looking flower stands for unequaled love. The Jonquil is another flower for this month of renewal...it is a symbol of affections returned...as well as being a flower expressing sympathy.
GEMS FOR MARCH... The lovely aquamarine
TEACHINGS...This is the month to make a promise to yourself to renew yourself in body...mind...and spirit...bringing more balance...harmony...and well-being into your daily life. Start your new goals and projects after the Spring Equinox.
JUST DO THIS ONE THING BLESSING CELEBRATION...
It is so easy to get stressed...because it seems as if our daily lives are full of work...chores...tasks...dealing with grumpy people...and often feeling rushed...which all leaves us...feeling disconnected from our hearts...and others.
Beginning March 1st...each and everyday... bless everyone you encounter...even on social media and the news. Yes...bless them...no matter what your thoughts or judgments might be towards this person or persons...whether you like them or not...just say "I bless you." You do not have to say it out loud...a whisper will even do...or silently to yourself. It just matters that you "bless" them and mean it,
"I bless you"
SPRING EQUINOX CELEBRATION
The Spring Equinox is March 21st...The very first day of Spring. The Spring cycle is a time of deep renewal...new life...and creating balance in your life.
With renewal of your spirit or heart...the most important gift you can give yourself...a few days before the Spring Equinox...ponder deeply...where you are out of balance living from your heart...or your inner spirit.
This Spring Equinox...celebrate living from your heart or spirit more...by lighting a candle...closing your eyes...and ask your heart...what you can do to be a more positive...loving...and caring human being from this moment on. Just sit in silence for how ever long you feel is right...and be in your own energy...listening to your heart what you need to do.
When you are complete...gently open your eyes...say a blessing or express gratitude...for what message you received...and then write down what it is you must now practice in your daily life to live from your heart or spirit. Hold the piece of paper...and make a commitment over it to live your heart or spirit renewal each and everyday...and be open and notice the positive changes that will begin to happen in your life...because there will be.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...
...FOR YOUR HOME
Place a bowl of pretty moss as your centerpiece for your kitchen and dining room tables. It looks so pretty...and will represent the season of Spring perfectly.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Oh my goodness...if you have never eaten a slice of buttermilk pie...then you are in for a real treat! This recipe is so easy...and it makes 2 pies...which will go very quickly!
BUTTERMILK PIE
Makes 2 pies
Blend 1 3/4 sticks softened butter with 3 3/4 cups sugar and 1/2 cup flour. Add 6 eggs at room temperature...1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla and 1 cup buttermilk. Pour this blended mixture into 2 unbaked pie shells. Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes...or until set...and a knife comes out clean when inserted in the middle of the pie. Allow to cool completely.
...FOR YOUR HEART
The Easter Bunny... knows that grown-up folks love to receive Easter Baskets too...so be sure to get adult loved ones treats this Easter too. Tuck into a basket for them... . organic chocolates...candies...and other organic treats. Adding a nice soy candle...organic hand lotion...or soap... or even a nice bottle of organic wine or beer is a nice and thoughtful addition to their Easter Basket.
My garden awaits me this month... calling to me...to weed...rake pine needles...and then plant a few new Rose bushes...one of them being a really pretty climbing Rose bush I bought for my hubby on Valentine's Day...a symbol of my love for him...to keep growing...year after year.
Of course...there is my herb garden...which I tend to each day...as they need constant watering and looking after. I use them almost daily in my cooking...and I love to add fresh Rosemary sprigs to my flower arrangements...and add to a bath to soak in. I am studying right now to become certified in medicinal herbs...so I do spend hours each week in class and then preparing herbal mixtures...which my course demands as part of my study and homework. I am loving this course so much...something I have wanted to do for many years...and am finally able to give myself.
There are still photos to take this month...of all my antiques I offer each Friday on my social media page...and with the light now brighter... in March...it will make picture taking so much easier. Hopefully...my on-line shop will get yet closer...to opening...if my photos turn out well...and the March light continues to shine through my windows.
My Seasonal Living e-course is almost complete... and I will continue writing and working on it's pages this month. This has been a year long writing project...my baby so to speak...and a project dear to my heart...as I am a firm believer in living by the changing seasons...for personal well-being and balance.. as well as a wise... resourceful means of living....and I am so excited to share it with you. Look for it when it launches on my website this Summer.
I am really wanting March to be a month of creativity for myself...as you can see. I am in a wonderful season in my life...where I want to renew that spark within myself... of my creative self...more. Perhaps like you...there are certain things I have longed to do...from my heart...and soul...that I put on a back burner...or denied myself...because I was too busy raising kids...or raising myself for that matter...that I never allowed myself the space or time... to pursue goals or creative projects that my inner spirit kept nudging me to start....until now.
That my heart called me to do.
I am sharing with you...my story...and my wonderful creative pursuits and yes dreams with you...that will fill my days this month... not only because I am excited...that I will be doing them...but because I also want to encourage you...to give yourself permission to pursue your own dreams...your own goals...that you have pushed aside...or not allowed yourself to have or begin.
Life ...your life...is meant to bring you joy...and happiness...and you have gifts and talents that no one else has...to express not only for yourself...but to share to the world. Just begin them...one creative step at a time...one day at a time.
Renew your life this March...embrace your creative self...and shine your light.
Because you are worth it...your life is worth it.
And you are needed in the world!
To your renewal,
Victoria
POEM...
" The afternoon is bright
with Spring in the air,
A mild March afternoon
With the breathy of April stirring,
I am alone in the quiet patio
Looking for some old untrue illusion-
Some shadow on the whiteness of the wall
Some memory asleep
On the stone rim of the fountain,
Perhaps in the air
The light swish of some trailing gown."
by Antonio Machado
PRAYER..." I ask for the courage to open myself to renewal of my body...mind...and spirit."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF MONTH...March 1st...Ash Wednesday... March 3rd...World Day Of Prayer...March 8th...International Woman's Day... March 12th...Jewish Purim... March 17th...St. Patrick's Day...March 21st...Spring Equinox.
FACTS ABOUT MARCH... The month of March was named for the Roman god of war...because in ancient Rome this was the month to resume military campaigns that had been interrupted by Winter.
FOLKLORE ABOUT MARCH... So many misties in March...so many frosties in May.
GARDENING TIPS FOR MARCH... Plant your potted trees and shrubs...and use a root starter after you plant them...to help them not go into shock. Fertilize your lawns. Plant your Spring flowers and veggies. Mow...rake...and pull any weeds.
HOMEMAKING TIP...Spring clean your whole house. Clean out your kitchen cupboards...wiping them down with pure Lemon or Orange Essential oil...dry...and then put down new shelf paper.
FULL MOON FOR MARCH...March 12th
FLOWERS FOR MARCH...The Daffodil is one of the flowers this month...and this pretty and sunny looking flower stands for unequaled love. The Jonquil is another flower for this month of renewal...it is a symbol of affections returned...as well as being a flower expressing sympathy.
GEMS FOR MARCH... The lovely aquamarine
TEACHINGS...This is the month to make a promise to yourself to renew yourself in body...mind...and spirit...bringing more balance...harmony...and well-being into your daily life. Start your new goals and projects after the Spring Equinox.
JUST DO THIS ONE THING BLESSING CELEBRATION...
It is so easy to get stressed...because it seems as if our daily lives are full of work...chores...tasks...dealing with grumpy people...and often feeling rushed...which all leaves us...feeling disconnected from our hearts...and others.
Beginning March 1st...each and everyday... bless everyone you encounter...even on social media and the news. Yes...bless them...no matter what your thoughts or judgments might be towards this person or persons...whether you like them or not...just say "I bless you." You do not have to say it out loud...a whisper will even do...or silently to yourself. It just matters that you "bless" them and mean it,
"I bless you"
SPRING EQUINOX CELEBRATION
The Spring Equinox is March 21st...The very first day of Spring. The Spring cycle is a time of deep renewal...new life...and creating balance in your life.
With renewal of your spirit or heart...the most important gift you can give yourself...a few days before the Spring Equinox...ponder deeply...where you are out of balance living from your heart...or your inner spirit.
This Spring Equinox...celebrate living from your heart or spirit more...by lighting a candle...closing your eyes...and ask your heart...what you can do to be a more positive...loving...and caring human being from this moment on. Just sit in silence for how ever long you feel is right...and be in your own energy...listening to your heart what you need to do.
When you are complete...gently open your eyes...say a blessing or express gratitude...for what message you received...and then write down what it is you must now practice in your daily life to live from your heart or spirit. Hold the piece of paper...and make a commitment over it to live your heart or spirit renewal each and everyday...and be open and notice the positive changes that will begin to happen in your life...because there will be.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...
...FOR YOUR HOME
Place a bowl of pretty moss as your centerpiece for your kitchen and dining room tables. It looks so pretty...and will represent the season of Spring perfectly.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Oh my goodness...if you have never eaten a slice of buttermilk pie...then you are in for a real treat! This recipe is so easy...and it makes 2 pies...which will go very quickly!
BUTTERMILK PIE
Makes 2 pies
Blend 1 3/4 sticks softened butter with 3 3/4 cups sugar and 1/2 cup flour. Add 6 eggs at room temperature...1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla and 1 cup buttermilk. Pour this blended mixture into 2 unbaked pie shells. Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes...or until set...and a knife comes out clean when inserted in the middle of the pie. Allow to cool completely.
...FOR YOUR HEART
The Easter Bunny... knows that grown-up folks love to receive Easter Baskets too...so be sure to get adult loved ones treats this Easter too. Tuck into a basket for them... . organic chocolates...candies...and other organic treats. Adding a nice soy candle...organic hand lotion...or soap... or even a nice bottle of organic wine or beer is a nice and thoughtful addition to their Easter Basket.
Thursday, February 2, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS FEBRUARY 2017
FEBRUARY musings... I like to be prepared for things...I always have. When other folks wait to the last moment to get things done...most often creating stress and mistakes with that last minute crazy rush...I have been ready and finished for weeks.
Being prepared...keeps me calm...and centered...no matter what task is before me. It eliminates stress...feelings of frustration...and that panic one feels when you race around trying to get that "something" done...you haven't done...because of procrastination.
Life is wonderful...and a gift...but it also takes awareness...responsibility...planning...and being prepared. It is the way life works.
Nature follows this simple truth of being prepared. Trees loose their leaves...and stand dormant during the Winter cycle...to prepare for new growth in the Spring season. Squirrels...hoard nuts...stashing them away...for the sparse food supply that occurs during the cold months...so they can survive. Flocks of birds fly south...avoiding the harsh cold months...of the North. They teach us as humans...that we too must be wise...and get prepared...for what is next...because as you know...life does indeed throw curve balls and detours...we never plan for...in our lives...whether we like them or not.
Being prepared... and laying a solid foundation...for whatever you desire in your life...in any area of your life...is indeed a wise lesson to follow...and is the teaching of this month of February.
Take the much needed time and space to get clear on what you want in your life...write it down once you have clarity...and then write down...the steps you need to take to make it happen...and then do it.
Work on getting prepared each and everyday...this is how you lay a foundation for what you want...and prepare yourself for your future.
Be aware that as you prepare and lay your foundation...you will change on the inside too. Because you are taking responsibility for your life and what you want your life to become...and sticking to it...your trust and confidence in yourself will grow too. Your understanding of your self-worth will flourish...and a new sense of pride will fill you up.
But most of all...when you prepare for your life...feelings of hope...faith in yourself...and a more positive attitude towards life...your life...will be your new reality...because you know you will be ready...for anything in life.
And that is something to celebrate.
May this month of February find you prepared... well and centered,
Victoria
POEM... " Surely as cometh the Winter, I know there are Spring violets under the snow."
by R.H. Newell
PRAYER..." I ask for guidance...and wisdom...as I prepare for new opportunities and possibilities in my life."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY... February 1st...Feast of St. Brigid...February 2nd...Candlemas...February 10th...Chinese Festival Of Lights...February 14th...Valentine's Day
VALENTINE CARD FACT... The tradition of sending Valentines cards began in Victorian England...and in 1847 a Massachusetts woman by the name of Esther Howland developed a successful business producing hand-made Valentine cards...and thus began the practice and tradition of Valentine cards in America.
FACTS...The modern name for the month of February is only about 100 years old.
The word February comes from "februa" which means cleansing and purification.
FOLKLORE...If it thunders in February,it will frost in April.
GARDENING TIP...Browse and order from seed catalogs...prune trees and shrubs...repair fences...remove dead trees shrubs...branches and twigs.
HOMEMAKING TIP... Begin your Spring cleaning...including kitchen drawers. Go through all your utensils...and if you do not use them...donate them...or give to friends. Clean out your pantry...and organize all food and spices there.
FULL MOON... February 26th
FLOWERS...Violet...Primrose
GEMS...Amethyst
TEACHINGS...February is the month to cleanse and purify your thoughts...words and actions...as well as your home...with clearing out unwanted items...Spring cleaning...and practicing a Home Blessing...to renew and cleanse your living environment. This month is also the month to plan and prepare for new goals...projects...and hopes for the coming Spring cycle.
TO ORDER SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...HOME BLESSING..
Just click on the button for Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...At the right sidebar...and then click on TRADITIONS.
INSPIRATION CELEBRATION...
Keep your inner inspiration...hopes and faith in yourself...alive each and everyday...by writing down all things...including other people that keep you inspired...give you hope...and show you ways you can have continued faith in yourself...even in the darkest of times.
All you will need is a journal or notebook...and begin. Your INSPIRATION CELEBRATION...can have just your written words of inspiration...faith in yourself...and hopes...or you can cut out pictures from magazines...quotes or poetry from other folks who inspire you...or any other visual or written script that feels right to you...just as long as it inspires your soul...to add to your journal or notebook.
Look at this special journal or notebook you have created just for you...often...to keep you inspired...give you hope...and continue to grow your faith in yourself!
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Put red tied ribbon around your doorknobs...to remind you of Valentine's Day this month. Scatter rose petals on your kitchen table...as well as place dried rose petals in pretty jars..and then place them in different rooms in your house.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
February can still be a cold weather month...and a soup simmering on the stove for dinner...is perfect!
SPICY TOMATO SOUP
serves 4-6
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion sliced
2 cups tomatoes...fresh or canned
2 cups chicken broth
dash of ground cloves
1 teaspoon paprika
pinch of sugar
1 bay leaf
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons each finely chopped fresh basil leaves...parsley...chives
1/2 cup heavy cream
In a large saucepan...melt butter...and saute the onion until tender. Add next 8 ingredients...cover and simmer 30 minutes. Discard bay leaf. Puree all ingredients in a food processor...or blender. Pour soup mixture back into saucepan...add the fresh herbs...and the heavy cream and reheat. Adjust any seasonings and serve!
CHEESE ROUNDS
yields 50
These tasty morsels go perfect with your homemade soup...as a snack...or appetizers.
1/2 cup butter...room temperature
6 ounces Cheddar cheese...grated
1 pound ricotta cheese...well drained
2/3 cup flour
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 egg
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Blend together butter and Cheddar cheese. Stir in remaining ingredients. Place by teaspoonfuls on baking sheet and bake 10 minutes. Allow to cool a bit and then serve warm or at room temperature.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Treat yourself to a massage...or take a class you have always wanted to take...to affirm your self-love this month.
Buy your honey flowers...because truth is...everyone deserves and loves flowers.
Being prepared...keeps me calm...and centered...no matter what task is before me. It eliminates stress...feelings of frustration...and that panic one feels when you race around trying to get that "something" done...you haven't done...because of procrastination.
Life is wonderful...and a gift...but it also takes awareness...responsibility...planning...and being prepared. It is the way life works.
Nature follows this simple truth of being prepared. Trees loose their leaves...and stand dormant during the Winter cycle...to prepare for new growth in the Spring season. Squirrels...hoard nuts...stashing them away...for the sparse food supply that occurs during the cold months...so they can survive. Flocks of birds fly south...avoiding the harsh cold months...of the North. They teach us as humans...that we too must be wise...and get prepared...for what is next...because as you know...life does indeed throw curve balls and detours...we never plan for...in our lives...whether we like them or not.
Being prepared... and laying a solid foundation...for whatever you desire in your life...in any area of your life...is indeed a wise lesson to follow...and is the teaching of this month of February.
Take the much needed time and space to get clear on what you want in your life...write it down once you have clarity...and then write down...the steps you need to take to make it happen...and then do it.
Work on getting prepared each and everyday...this is how you lay a foundation for what you want...and prepare yourself for your future.
Be aware that as you prepare and lay your foundation...you will change on the inside too. Because you are taking responsibility for your life and what you want your life to become...and sticking to it...your trust and confidence in yourself will grow too. Your understanding of your self-worth will flourish...and a new sense of pride will fill you up.
But most of all...when you prepare for your life...feelings of hope...faith in yourself...and a more positive attitude towards life...your life...will be your new reality...because you know you will be ready...for anything in life.
And that is something to celebrate.
May this month of February find you prepared... well and centered,
Victoria
POEM... " Surely as cometh the Winter, I know there are Spring violets under the snow."
by R.H. Newell
PRAYER..." I ask for guidance...and wisdom...as I prepare for new opportunities and possibilities in my life."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY... February 1st...Feast of St. Brigid...February 2nd...Candlemas...February 10th...Chinese Festival Of Lights...February 14th...Valentine's Day
VALENTINE CARD FACT... The tradition of sending Valentines cards began in Victorian England...and in 1847 a Massachusetts woman by the name of Esther Howland developed a successful business producing hand-made Valentine cards...and thus began the practice and tradition of Valentine cards in America.
FACTS...The modern name for the month of February is only about 100 years old.
The word February comes from "februa" which means cleansing and purification.
FOLKLORE...If it thunders in February,it will frost in April.
GARDENING TIP...Browse and order from seed catalogs...prune trees and shrubs...repair fences...remove dead trees shrubs...branches and twigs.
HOMEMAKING TIP... Begin your Spring cleaning...including kitchen drawers. Go through all your utensils...and if you do not use them...donate them...or give to friends. Clean out your pantry...and organize all food and spices there.
FULL MOON... February 26th
FLOWERS...Violet...Primrose
GEMS...Amethyst
TEACHINGS...February is the month to cleanse and purify your thoughts...words and actions...as well as your home...with clearing out unwanted items...Spring cleaning...and practicing a Home Blessing...to renew and cleanse your living environment. This month is also the month to plan and prepare for new goals...projects...and hopes for the coming Spring cycle.
TO ORDER SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...HOME BLESSING..
Just click on the button for Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...At the right sidebar...and then click on TRADITIONS.
INSPIRATION CELEBRATION...
Keep your inner inspiration...hopes and faith in yourself...alive each and everyday...by writing down all things...including other people that keep you inspired...give you hope...and show you ways you can have continued faith in yourself...even in the darkest of times.
All you will need is a journal or notebook...and begin. Your INSPIRATION CELEBRATION...can have just your written words of inspiration...faith in yourself...and hopes...or you can cut out pictures from magazines...quotes or poetry from other folks who inspire you...or any other visual or written script that feels right to you...just as long as it inspires your soul...to add to your journal or notebook.
Look at this special journal or notebook you have created just for you...often...to keep you inspired...give you hope...and continue to grow your faith in yourself!
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Put red tied ribbon around your doorknobs...to remind you of Valentine's Day this month. Scatter rose petals on your kitchen table...as well as place dried rose petals in pretty jars..and then place them in different rooms in your house.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
February can still be a cold weather month...and a soup simmering on the stove for dinner...is perfect!
SPICY TOMATO SOUP
serves 4-6
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion sliced
2 cups tomatoes...fresh or canned
2 cups chicken broth
dash of ground cloves
1 teaspoon paprika
pinch of sugar
1 bay leaf
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons each finely chopped fresh basil leaves...parsley...chives
1/2 cup heavy cream
In a large saucepan...melt butter...and saute the onion until tender. Add next 8 ingredients...cover and simmer 30 minutes. Discard bay leaf. Puree all ingredients in a food processor...or blender. Pour soup mixture back into saucepan...add the fresh herbs...and the heavy cream and reheat. Adjust any seasonings and serve!
CHEESE ROUNDS
yields 50
These tasty morsels go perfect with your homemade soup...as a snack...or appetizers.
1/2 cup butter...room temperature
6 ounces Cheddar cheese...grated
1 pound ricotta cheese...well drained
2/3 cup flour
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 egg
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Blend together butter and Cheddar cheese. Stir in remaining ingredients. Place by teaspoonfuls on baking sheet and bake 10 minutes. Allow to cool a bit and then serve warm or at room temperature.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Treat yourself to a massage...or take a class you have always wanted to take...to affirm your self-love this month.
Buy your honey flowers...because truth is...everyone deserves and loves flowers.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS JANUARY 2017
January...Happy New Year to you! It is so hard to believe that today is the beginning of a whole new Year...and a new chapter in your life.
If there is one thing I have learned as I age is this...life is too short...too sacred...and way to wonderful to continue to drag around old baggage...hates...anger...and fears. Leave them behind you this New Year...and strive to become a more happy...and centered human being. Do fun stuff...creative stuff...just for the sheer joy of it all.
You have everything to gain...by leaving your old patterns and baggage behind.
Begin today... as a new way of looking at life...and start to create a new you!
A common theme we all seem to adopt is that we have all the time in the world...fact is...we don't. It is so easy to fall into the trap of always working...always striving to be more...to accomplish more...we forget or bury...the part of us...that needs to lighten up...fun up...and experience our creative self.
Make time each day... to do..."doing nothing"...daydreaming...napping...walking barefoot in the grass...blowing bubbles...acting silly...just because it is okay to be silly...no matter what your age is.
When you create the space and energy to play...and have fun,..you are in fact creating a more relaxed...creative and balanced life...as well as recharging your body...mind...and spirit. Your attitude will become more positive...and uplifting too...because you have made time for yourself...to just relax and have fun.
Make a promise to yourself this New Year...to lighten up...fun up...and embrace that child within you...because life is too short...way to awesome...to just work...worry...and waste your time...on anything but...a more positive...uplifting and balanced life.
Happy New Year,
Victoria
POEM...
"January is here,with eyes that keenly glow,
A frost-mailed warrior
Striding a shadowy steed of snow."
by Edgar Fawcett
PRAYER... " I ask for the courage and strength to let go of my past...and create a better...more loving self this New Year."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR JANUARY...January 1st...New Years Day...January 6th...Epiphany...January 16th...Martin Luther King Jr. Day...January 19th...Greek Epiphany...Blessing of the Waters
FACTS... New Year ceremonies are designed to get rid of the past...and to welcome the future...and January is named after the Etruscan word janua which means "door".
In order to set the calendar right...the Roman senate in 153 BC declared January 1st to be the beginning of the New Year.
During the Middle Ages the Church remained opposed to celebrating New Years Day.
January 1st has been celbrated as a holiday by western nations for only about the past 400 years.
FOLKLORE...Fog in January brings a wet spring. If grass grows in January it will grow badly the whole year.
NEW YEAR'S FOLKLORE...On New Year's Eve...kiss the person you hope to keep kissing.
GARDENING TIP... Protect tender plants from frost. Sharpen and oil all gardening tools. Prune all leafless trees and shrubs.
HOMEMAKING TIP...Keep your home neat and tidy this month by reorganizing cupboards and closets. Put cedar blocks in closets and cupboards too...to keep pests at bay.
Simmer fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks in water on your stove...to keep your home smelling fresh.
FULL MOON... January 12th is the Full Moon...the first one of the New Year.
FLOWERS...The beautiful snowdrop and crocus.
GEMS...The garnet...and onyx.
TEACHINGS...Go inward and get clear on your personal problems...and work on solving them. Strive to connect to your faith and spiritual nature...so you can be a better person. Spend time daydreaming...and journal your hopes and dreams...for the new year.
DREAM AND HOPE JAR 2017
SUPPLIES...jar with a lid...ribbon...items to decorate your jar...tags or small pieces of paper...pen...an open heart.
It is so easy with our busy lives to forget about our hopes and dreams...but it is so vital to keep in touch with those dreams you have always had deep within your soul.You know those things that make you feel with wonder and passion... you just KNOW you are meant to do!
Don't ever give up on yourself...or your hopes and dreams ever...they are part of who you are...and those hopes and dreams were given to you for a purpose...YOU are meant to have them. With focus...action steps and belief in yourself they can come true.
Here is a very sweet way for you to see in writing...your hopes and dreams...that you long for...each and every day. Make yourself this DREAM AND HOPE JAR. Find a large glass container...tie a pretty ribbon around the top...and decorate it if you want.
Find little white tags at a hobby store...or cut pieces of paper yourself...and then find a quiet time to connect with your heart...and write on the pieces of paper or tags...all your hopes and dreams. Really go for it...without judging or monitoring what you truly dream for for your life.
When you feel pleased with what you have written out...hold all the pieces of paper or tags in your hands...and bless them with a prayer. Now place them in your jar...sprinkle some glitter or dried flowers on top...seal it with a lid...and then place it where you can see your DREAM AND HOPE JAR...each and every day...reminding you...that you so deserve to have your dreams and hopes come true.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Be sure to carefully wrap up all your holiday ornaments...in tissue paper and put away. Vacuum up tree needles...and other holiday messes. Homes can get stuffy during the Winter months...so be sure to mop your floors with pure Orange essential oil...and add a few drops on your light bulbs ( be sure they are cool and off before you do this) so when you turn your lights on the scent of Orange citrus...fills your home.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Who says a picnic has to be in the warmer months? January is the perfect month...because of colder weather and your family indoors...to have some unexpected fun...and this of course involves good food!
Spread out blankets...and let the fun begin! Here is a fried chicken recipe to make for your indoor January picnic!
PICNIC FRIED CHICKEN
Serves 6
1 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 3 to 3 1/2 pound cut up whole chicken
vegetable oil
In a shallow dish...mix flour...paprika...salt...and pepper. Coat chicken pieces with the flour mixture.
In a 12-inch cast iron or nonstick skillet heat oil that is ( 1/4 inch) deep in the skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in the oil...until browned on all sides. Next after chicken is nicely browned reduce heat to low...and continue to cook...uncovered for about 20 minutes...without turning...until juice of chicken is clear...when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced with a fork. Drain chicken on paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with salt. Serve and enjoy...at your indoor picnic!
...FOR YOUR HEART
Begin self nurturing rituals this month...by taking time each and every day...to sit for a few minutes and just be with yourself and have a nice cup of tea...or a glass of pure water. Take your time enjoying your beverage break...and give yourself this time to recharge yourself.
If there is one thing I have learned as I age is this...life is too short...too sacred...and way to wonderful to continue to drag around old baggage...hates...anger...and fears. Leave them behind you this New Year...and strive to become a more happy...and centered human being. Do fun stuff...creative stuff...just for the sheer joy of it all.
You have everything to gain...by leaving your old patterns and baggage behind.
Begin today... as a new way of looking at life...and start to create a new you!
A common theme we all seem to adopt is that we have all the time in the world...fact is...we don't. It is so easy to fall into the trap of always working...always striving to be more...to accomplish more...we forget or bury...the part of us...that needs to lighten up...fun up...and experience our creative self.
Make time each day... to do..."doing nothing"...daydreaming...napping...walking barefoot in the grass...blowing bubbles...acting silly...just because it is okay to be silly...no matter what your age is.
When you create the space and energy to play...and have fun,..you are in fact creating a more relaxed...creative and balanced life...as well as recharging your body...mind...and spirit. Your attitude will become more positive...and uplifting too...because you have made time for yourself...to just relax and have fun.
Make a promise to yourself this New Year...to lighten up...fun up...and embrace that child within you...because life is too short...way to awesome...to just work...worry...and waste your time...on anything but...a more positive...uplifting and balanced life.
Happy New Year,
Victoria
POEM...
"January is here,with eyes that keenly glow,
A frost-mailed warrior
Striding a shadowy steed of snow."
by Edgar Fawcett
PRAYER... " I ask for the courage and strength to let go of my past...and create a better...more loving self this New Year."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR JANUARY...January 1st...New Years Day...January 6th...Epiphany...January 16th...Martin Luther King Jr. Day...January 19th...Greek Epiphany...Blessing of the Waters
FACTS... New Year ceremonies are designed to get rid of the past...and to welcome the future...and January is named after the Etruscan word janua which means "door".
In order to set the calendar right...the Roman senate in 153 BC declared January 1st to be the beginning of the New Year.
During the Middle Ages the Church remained opposed to celebrating New Years Day.
January 1st has been celbrated as a holiday by western nations for only about the past 400 years.
FOLKLORE...Fog in January brings a wet spring. If grass grows in January it will grow badly the whole year.
NEW YEAR'S FOLKLORE...On New Year's Eve...kiss the person you hope to keep kissing.
GARDENING TIP... Protect tender plants from frost. Sharpen and oil all gardening tools. Prune all leafless trees and shrubs.
HOMEMAKING TIP...Keep your home neat and tidy this month by reorganizing cupboards and closets. Put cedar blocks in closets and cupboards too...to keep pests at bay.
Simmer fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks in water on your stove...to keep your home smelling fresh.
FULL MOON... January 12th is the Full Moon...the first one of the New Year.
FLOWERS...The beautiful snowdrop and crocus.
GEMS...The garnet...and onyx.
TEACHINGS...Go inward and get clear on your personal problems...and work on solving them. Strive to connect to your faith and spiritual nature...so you can be a better person. Spend time daydreaming...and journal your hopes and dreams...for the new year.
DREAM AND HOPE JAR 2017
SUPPLIES...jar with a lid...ribbon...items to decorate your jar...tags or small pieces of paper...pen...an open heart.
It is so easy with our busy lives to forget about our hopes and dreams...but it is so vital to keep in touch with those dreams you have always had deep within your soul.You know those things that make you feel with wonder and passion... you just KNOW you are meant to do!
Don't ever give up on yourself...or your hopes and dreams ever...they are part of who you are...and those hopes and dreams were given to you for a purpose...YOU are meant to have them. With focus...action steps and belief in yourself they can come true.
Here is a very sweet way for you to see in writing...your hopes and dreams...that you long for...each and every day. Make yourself this DREAM AND HOPE JAR. Find a large glass container...tie a pretty ribbon around the top...and decorate it if you want.
Find little white tags at a hobby store...or cut pieces of paper yourself...and then find a quiet time to connect with your heart...and write on the pieces of paper or tags...all your hopes and dreams. Really go for it...without judging or monitoring what you truly dream for for your life.
When you feel pleased with what you have written out...hold all the pieces of paper or tags in your hands...and bless them with a prayer. Now place them in your jar...sprinkle some glitter or dried flowers on top...seal it with a lid...and then place it where you can see your DREAM AND HOPE JAR...each and every day...reminding you...that you so deserve to have your dreams and hopes come true.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Be sure to carefully wrap up all your holiday ornaments...in tissue paper and put away. Vacuum up tree needles...and other holiday messes. Homes can get stuffy during the Winter months...so be sure to mop your floors with pure Orange essential oil...and add a few drops on your light bulbs ( be sure they are cool and off before you do this) so when you turn your lights on the scent of Orange citrus...fills your home.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Who says a picnic has to be in the warmer months? January is the perfect month...because of colder weather and your family indoors...to have some unexpected fun...and this of course involves good food!
Spread out blankets...and let the fun begin! Here is a fried chicken recipe to make for your indoor January picnic!
PICNIC FRIED CHICKEN
Serves 6
1 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 3 to 3 1/2 pound cut up whole chicken
vegetable oil
In a shallow dish...mix flour...paprika...salt...and pepper. Coat chicken pieces with the flour mixture.
In a 12-inch cast iron or nonstick skillet heat oil that is ( 1/4 inch) deep in the skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in the oil...until browned on all sides. Next after chicken is nicely browned reduce heat to low...and continue to cook...uncovered for about 20 minutes...without turning...until juice of chicken is clear...when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced with a fork. Drain chicken on paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with salt. Serve and enjoy...at your indoor picnic!
...FOR YOUR HEART
Begin self nurturing rituals this month...by taking time each and every day...to sit for a few minutes and just be with yourself and have a nice cup of tea...or a glass of pure water. Take your time enjoying your beverage break...and give yourself this time to recharge yourself.
Thursday, December 1, 2016
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS DECEMBER 2016
December...is so much more than Christmas or the month for other religious holidays...which of course is very important to most of us...so I am not trying to discredit or diminish these sacred holidays in any way...because they are important. But I feel the spirit of Christmas...that of giving...and living from your heart and inner spirit ... needs to be embraced...not only at this season...but kept alive...and practiced each and every day... by everyone...not just during the holidays.
I am not sure when or why we as a society stopped caring about each other...the way I know we all should... and could...after all we all are humans...living together on this place called Earth. And I truly believe most people are good and loving...I really do. And to be honest it wasn't that many years ago...that we all in fact...connected more...to our neighbors...to our communities...and to each other. I know this for a fact...because I remember well doing so!
Maybe it is technology... fear...lack of trust of others...world events...the stress we create...the need for constant having more...or the bubble we surround our own lives in... wanting to ignore what is going on around us...that is causing us to retreat...and disconnect more and more from other people. I don't know...maybe it is all of these and more. All I do know for sure...is that within each one of us...is this.We all have goodness within us...the capacity to care and love...and give to one another...it is part of our story as human beings... our humanity... and encoded in our DNA...that no electronic or machine can ever replace.
Personally...I truly know in my heart that living from a place of the inner spirit or the heart center...is up to each one of us...not our world leaders...or any other institution outside of ourselves. Sometimes I feel that to a certain extent we have all become sheep...you know following what everyone else is thinking and doing...in order to fit in. We all seem to huddle these days in fear and mistrust...and think we are connecting with each other through a computer. Now technology is a good thing......but certainly not the end all to actually connecting to another human being...or giving or receiving a hug...a smile...or extending a listening ear and an open heart heart. It is to some degree...isolation. And making a choice to be distrustful...or live in fear...because everyone else is...is just insanity. If any type of disconnect needs to happen...it is our sheep mentality...fear...worry...distrust...and using technology to relate and connect with others...constantly. When you give in to thinking and behaving like the masses...you are giving away your personal power. This is not in my opinion taking responsibility for your own thoughts or actions...and it certainly is not wise...mature or even emotionally healthy for you or anyone else for that matter.
Make a promise to yourself this month of December...the month of spiritual awakening...of hope and faith...to live from your heart...from this moment on. Reach out to others...stop to talk to others...offer help...listen to how others are feeling...give...lend a hand...care again...like your life depends on it...because in truth it does...everyone's life does. Refuse to get caught up in fear...worry...and distrust of others...because truth is...these negative emotions are a cancer...to your body...mind...and spirit...and to the world.
GIVE...CARE...CONNECT
From this moment on...because no matter what is going on...or what isn't...living from your heart...is the highest calling you will ever have...or hope for.
Live from your heart.
Happy holidays to you,
Victoria
POEM
"From December to March,
there are for many of us
three gardens-
the garden outdoors,
the garden of pots and bowls in the house,
and the garden of the mind's eye."
by Katherine S. White
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS...
December 10th...International Human Rights Day...December 12th...Feast Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe...December 13th...St. Lucia's Day... December 21st...Winter Solstice...December 22nd...International Arbor Day...December 25th...Christmas Day... December 25th...Hanakkah begins... December 26th...Boxing Day...December 31st...New Years Eve
FACTS FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER...
The Anglo- Saxons called this month 'Winter Monath' or Yule Monath because of the custom of burning the Yule log this month.
FOLKLORE... Deep snow in Winter; tall grain in Summer-...Estonian Proverb
A fair day in Winter is the mother of a storm- English Proverb
GARDENING TIPS...
Prune back any grape vines...as well as pruning your evergreens. Plant any bulbs...and also plant onions and garlic this month. Be sure to remove dead or dying trees and shrubs.
HOMEMAKING TIP...Be sure to wax all your wood furniture this month...as having the heat on and the fireplace lit...can really dry out wood. Clean out your fireplace..before you light that first fire of the season.
FULL MOON...December 13th
FLOWERS...The Holly and Narcissus
GEMS... Blue Topaz and Turquoise
TEACHINGS... Connecting to your inner spirit and opening yourself to live a more heart centered
life.
WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
Light candles throughout your home...on this longest and darkest night of the year...as a symbol of your own inner light. Find a time at some point during the evening...to sit in silence and pray for others...the planet...and all areas of the world where there is conflict and strife. If you know of anyone who is ill...grieving...or having any problem of any kind...pray for them...too. By praying...you are coming from your heart...and sending "light" and goodness out to the world...in times of darkness.
LIVING FROM YOUR HEART NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION
It really is up to you to make changes in the world and also make a positive difference in the world...and that means living from your heart...instead of the ego driven mind. One of the easiest and most simple ways you can begin to live more from your heart...is to think about what you are going to say...before you say it...allow your heart to guide you on how you treat people...and making choices based on compassion and love.
This of course does not mean...when you live from your heart...that you let others hurt you... stop expressing how you feel...or have feelings of anger or sadness...what it does mean is that you respond differently...not from your ego mind that wants to hurt back or lash out at others...but rather from a place of wisdom...and grace.That is...responding in a heart space of of expressing how you feel in a calm...but firm way...without attacking the other person. It also means...treating others...the way you want to be treated...that timeless but always truthful...living by the golden rule.
On New Years Eve...set your intention to living a more heart centered life...by lighting a candle...and then sit in silence...prayer or meditation...pondering within your heart...how you treat other people in negative or hurtful ways. When you are clear on this...write it out on paper...being totally honest with yourself.
When you are complete...read over your written list...and make a promise to yourself...that you will let go of treating others in negative ways...and begin to live from your heart. Ask for guidance from your understanding of God or the Higher Power...for your desire to be a more loving and heart centered human being. Blow out your candle...and then carefully fold your written list...placing it it a place where you can you take it out and read it each day...as a loving reminder of how you want to live from your heart.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...
...FOR YOUR HOME
Keep candles lit this month throughout your home...to remind you of your own inner light. Use fresh natural pine cones...and evergreen branches to decorate your home with...instead of plastic items.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
I know you have ham or turkey leftovers...so here is a quick and tasty potato recipe to freshen up those leftovers...in style.
MUSTARD ROASTED POTATOES
Serves 6
2 1/2 pounds small red potatoes
2 yellow onions
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the potatoes in halves or quarters...depending on their size...and place them on a sheet pan. Remove the ends of the onions... peel them and cut them in half. Slice them crosswise in 1/4-inch-thick slices to make half-rounds. Toss the onions and potatoes together on the sheet pan. Add the olive oil...mustard...2 teaspoons salt...and the pepper and toss them together. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the potatoes are browned on the outside and tender on the inside. Toss the potatoes from time to time with a spatula so they brown evenly while cooking. Serve hot sprinkled with the chopped parsley and a little extra salt.
PARMESAN ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
Here is another easy and very good side to go with those leftovers. And it has cheese!
Serves 6
1 large head cauliflower
3 tablespoons olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup freshly grated Gruyere cheese
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Remove the outer green leaves from the cauliflower and cut the head into florets...discarding the stems.Place the florets on a sheet pan. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Toss well. Bake for 30 minutes...tossing once...until the cauliflower is tender and starts to brown. Sprinkle with the Parmesan and Gruyere and bake for 1 or 2 minutes or just until the cheese melts. Season to taste and serve hot or warm.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Make hand-make thank you cards for your received holiday gifts...tucking a piece of Rosemary in the envelope.
I am not sure when or why we as a society stopped caring about each other...the way I know we all should... and could...after all we all are humans...living together on this place called Earth. And I truly believe most people are good and loving...I really do. And to be honest it wasn't that many years ago...that we all in fact...connected more...to our neighbors...to our communities...and to each other. I know this for a fact...because I remember well doing so!
Maybe it is technology... fear...lack of trust of others...world events...the stress we create...the need for constant having more...or the bubble we surround our own lives in... wanting to ignore what is going on around us...that is causing us to retreat...and disconnect more and more from other people. I don't know...maybe it is all of these and more. All I do know for sure...is that within each one of us...is this.We all have goodness within us...the capacity to care and love...and give to one another...it is part of our story as human beings... our humanity... and encoded in our DNA...that no electronic or machine can ever replace.
Personally...I truly know in my heart that living from a place of the inner spirit or the heart center...is up to each one of us...not our world leaders...or any other institution outside of ourselves. Sometimes I feel that to a certain extent we have all become sheep...you know following what everyone else is thinking and doing...in order to fit in. We all seem to huddle these days in fear and mistrust...and think we are connecting with each other through a computer. Now technology is a good thing......but certainly not the end all to actually connecting to another human being...or giving or receiving a hug...a smile...or extending a listening ear and an open heart heart. It is to some degree...isolation. And making a choice to be distrustful...or live in fear...because everyone else is...is just insanity. If any type of disconnect needs to happen...it is our sheep mentality...fear...worry...distrust...and using technology to relate and connect with others...constantly. When you give in to thinking and behaving like the masses...you are giving away your personal power. This is not in my opinion taking responsibility for your own thoughts or actions...and it certainly is not wise...mature or even emotionally healthy for you or anyone else for that matter.
Make a promise to yourself this month of December...the month of spiritual awakening...of hope and faith...to live from your heart...from this moment on. Reach out to others...stop to talk to others...offer help...listen to how others are feeling...give...lend a hand...care again...like your life depends on it...because in truth it does...everyone's life does. Refuse to get caught up in fear...worry...and distrust of others...because truth is...these negative emotions are a cancer...to your body...mind...and spirit...and to the world.
GIVE...CARE...CONNECT
From this moment on...because no matter what is going on...or what isn't...living from your heart...is the highest calling you will ever have...or hope for.
Live from your heart.
Happy holidays to you,
Victoria
POEM
"From December to March,
there are for many of us
three gardens-
the garden outdoors,
the garden of pots and bowls in the house,
and the garden of the mind's eye."
by Katherine S. White
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS...
December 10th...International Human Rights Day...December 12th...Feast Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe...December 13th...St. Lucia's Day... December 21st...Winter Solstice...December 22nd...International Arbor Day...December 25th...Christmas Day... December 25th...Hanakkah begins... December 26th...Boxing Day...December 31st...New Years Eve
FACTS FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER...
The Anglo- Saxons called this month 'Winter Monath' or Yule Monath because of the custom of burning the Yule log this month.
FOLKLORE... Deep snow in Winter; tall grain in Summer-...Estonian Proverb
A fair day in Winter is the mother of a storm- English Proverb
GARDENING TIPS...
Prune back any grape vines...as well as pruning your evergreens. Plant any bulbs...and also plant onions and garlic this month. Be sure to remove dead or dying trees and shrubs.
HOMEMAKING TIP...Be sure to wax all your wood furniture this month...as having the heat on and the fireplace lit...can really dry out wood. Clean out your fireplace..before you light that first fire of the season.
FULL MOON...December 13th
FLOWERS...The Holly and Narcissus
GEMS... Blue Topaz and Turquoise
TEACHINGS... Connecting to your inner spirit and opening yourself to live a more heart centered
life.
WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
Light candles throughout your home...on this longest and darkest night of the year...as a symbol of your own inner light. Find a time at some point during the evening...to sit in silence and pray for others...the planet...and all areas of the world where there is conflict and strife. If you know of anyone who is ill...grieving...or having any problem of any kind...pray for them...too. By praying...you are coming from your heart...and sending "light" and goodness out to the world...in times of darkness.
LIVING FROM YOUR HEART NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION
It really is up to you to make changes in the world and also make a positive difference in the world...and that means living from your heart...instead of the ego driven mind. One of the easiest and most simple ways you can begin to live more from your heart...is to think about what you are going to say...before you say it...allow your heart to guide you on how you treat people...and making choices based on compassion and love.
This of course does not mean...when you live from your heart...that you let others hurt you... stop expressing how you feel...or have feelings of anger or sadness...what it does mean is that you respond differently...not from your ego mind that wants to hurt back or lash out at others...but rather from a place of wisdom...and grace.That is...responding in a heart space of of expressing how you feel in a calm...but firm way...without attacking the other person. It also means...treating others...the way you want to be treated...that timeless but always truthful...living by the golden rule.
On New Years Eve...set your intention to living a more heart centered life...by lighting a candle...and then sit in silence...prayer or meditation...pondering within your heart...how you treat other people in negative or hurtful ways. When you are clear on this...write it out on paper...being totally honest with yourself.
When you are complete...read over your written list...and make a promise to yourself...that you will let go of treating others in negative ways...and begin to live from your heart. Ask for guidance from your understanding of God or the Higher Power...for your desire to be a more loving and heart centered human being. Blow out your candle...and then carefully fold your written list...placing it it a place where you can you take it out and read it each day...as a loving reminder of how you want to live from your heart.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS...
...FOR YOUR HOME
Keep candles lit this month throughout your home...to remind you of your own inner light. Use fresh natural pine cones...and evergreen branches to decorate your home with...instead of plastic items.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
I know you have ham or turkey leftovers...so here is a quick and tasty potato recipe to freshen up those leftovers...in style.
MUSTARD ROASTED POTATOES
Serves 6
2 1/2 pounds small red potatoes
2 yellow onions
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the potatoes in halves or quarters...depending on their size...and place them on a sheet pan. Remove the ends of the onions... peel them and cut them in half. Slice them crosswise in 1/4-inch-thick slices to make half-rounds. Toss the onions and potatoes together on the sheet pan. Add the olive oil...mustard...2 teaspoons salt...and the pepper and toss them together. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the potatoes are browned on the outside and tender on the inside. Toss the potatoes from time to time with a spatula so they brown evenly while cooking. Serve hot sprinkled with the chopped parsley and a little extra salt.
PARMESAN ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
Here is another easy and very good side to go with those leftovers. And it has cheese!
Serves 6
1 large head cauliflower
3 tablespoons olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup freshly grated Gruyere cheese
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Remove the outer green leaves from the cauliflower and cut the head into florets...discarding the stems.Place the florets on a sheet pan. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Toss well. Bake for 30 minutes...tossing once...until the cauliflower is tender and starts to brown. Sprinkle with the Parmesan and Gruyere and bake for 1 or 2 minutes or just until the cheese melts. Season to taste and serve hot or warm.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Make hand-make thank you cards for your received holiday gifts...tucking a piece of Rosemary in the envelope.
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS NOVEMBER 2016
NOVEMBER... I love this month! Very much! I get really excited about buying our turkey... and go to several local resources before I make up my mind...which one will come home with me.I must admit...I do poke them...and pick them up...and of course read everything that is printed on the packaging...just in case...some strange and unwanted ingredient is added to our possible Thanksgiving turkey. I am very careful about the food I buy...and eat...because I care about my family's health and mine too.It is not just buying the turkey that I carefully select...but the mindfulness I put into all the details of this holiday...because it matters.
My Thanksgiving turkey shopping has become a very special yearly tradition for me...something that brings me great pleasure. Traditions matter...they are the common thread of humanity...that always brings us closer together. And make good times and wonderful memories.
As I set my Thanksgiving table with my yellow and gold china...and silver...handed down to me from my husbands mom...I feel connected to all the women...and men...who are doing exactly the same thing as me.. setting their holiday table with the very best...they have...because they too value the beauty...the soul...of following and keeping traditions.And they also know how vital it is to pass these traditions on to their daughters and sons too.
In this season of my life...with grown children...and a grandchild...and seeing our lives becoming more and more about technology...social media...fast...and cheap... I feel now more than ever...the value of traditions and the gifts that they give us to live a more grounded...enriched life...needs to be held on to.
Technology can't and never will replace the sharing of family history or traditions...or the gathering of family and friends around the table for a good meal. Or the pleasant hum of meal preparation from folks in the kitchen cooking together...or the sound of laughing children...playing together while they wait to eat.
And most importantly...taking this one day...when hopefully we need to be practicing it in each moment...the sight of bowing heads and grateful hearts...expressed through a prayer of thankfulness for all each one of us...really has to be grateful for.
We are all so blessed.
This Thanksgiving no matter if it is just you...or a gathering of 2 or 20...make it special...create a day of tradition...of mindfulness and care...that each and everyone present will remember always...close to their hearts...and want to return to...year after year.
Because traditions have soul
And that makes life worth living.
Keeper of Traditions,
Victoria
Thanks for time to be together, turkey, talk, and tangy weather.
For harvest stored away, home, and hearth and holiday.
For Autumn's frosty art, and abundance in the heart
For neighbors, and November nice things, new things to remember.
For kitchen, kettles' croon kith and kin expected soon.
For sizzles, sights, and sounds, and something special that about.
That spells thanks for joy in living and a jolly good Thanksgiving.
by Aileen Fisher
PRAYER...
" Help me be aware in each moment...how much I have to be thankful for."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR NOVEMBER...
November 1st...Day of the Dead...All Saints Day...November 5th...Guy Fawkes Day in Britain ...November 11th...Armistice Day in Belgium...France...November 11th...Remembrance Day in Canada...November 11th...Veterans Day...United States...November 24th...Thanksgiving Day in America...November 30th...St. Andrew's Day in Scotland
FACTS ABOUT NOVEMBER... Throughout much of history November has often been thought of as a somber month...because it signaled the start of Winter. Folks would spend the whole month storing the harvest and preparing their food and homes in order to survive the Winter.
FOLKLORE...
" Dull November brings the blast,
Then the leaves whirling fast."
GARDENING TIP...
Place your cold sensitive potted plants in protected areas or indoors. Plant bulbs now. Reduce your watering on your lawns.
HOMEMAKING TIP... Clean your woodwork in each room...and wipe down your doors and doorknobs with pure Lavender essential oil...it will kill bacteria...will not harm your doors...and leave each room smelling fresh with the scent of Lavender
FULL MOON... Is on November 14th
FLOWERS...The chrysanthemum is the lovely flower of this month
GEMS...The Topaz is the gem of this month
TEACHINGS...This is the month to really see clearly how much you really do have to be grateful for in your life...and make a promise to yourself to always be aware of this truth each and every day. Practice giving more this month...because it is the right thing to do...without expecting in return.
THANKSGIVING GRATITUDE JARS
This Thanksgiving get your family and friends involved in a wonderful creative craft...by providing them all the supplies...to make their own Thanksgiving GRATITUDE JAR. After they have decorated their jars...be sure to tell them...that the purpose of their decorated GRATITUDE JAR is for them to place small pieces of paper...that they have written what they are grateful for each day...and place it in the jar.Also let them know...that they can begin practicing what they are grateful for...by writing their first gratitude slip of paper...that Thanksgiving Day...and then each and every day after that...until the next Thanksgiving day...giving each person a full 12 months to fill their GRATITUDE JAR.
Ask them to bring their decorated GRATITUDE JAR...the following Thanksgiving...to share with everyone.
SUPPLIES...
markers
tags to write GRATITUDE JAR on
empty clean jars with lids
glue gun or tacky glue
different colored ribbon
gem stones...decals...stickers...dried flowers
glitter
DAY OF THE DEAD...
Day Of The Dead is practiced on November 1st-November 2nd in many cultures throughout the world...including gaining in popularity in the United States.I t is a celebration of taking a day and evening to honor one's families who have passed away...with family altars...the cleaning of grave sites...placing flowers and food out for the deceased family members...including the painting of sugar skulls.
Below is a simple and loving honoring way you can honor family that has passed away...but please feel free to add your own way of celebrating and honoring their lives.
Set out a small table...or use an area on any table... with family pictures of relatives that have passed away. Place a small vase of flowers or Rosemary...an herb that is a symbol of remembrance...on the table...and include a white pillar candle...that you can light throughout the day or evening.
Keep the candle lit...and when you feel it is right...take a few moments to pause...look at their pictures...and recall happy times and memories with them. Bless them and thank them for being in your life.
If you like...share stories about your relatives who have passed away with your family around the dinner table that evening...keeping those you loved...and lost alive in your hearts and minds.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Keep your November home decorating simple...and natural by setting out trays and bowls of beautiful apples. They look so pretty in any room in the house...and they can also be eaten by family and guests.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
I am sure by now...you are so over any recipe that has to do with turkey...or pumpkin...so I wanted to give you some tasty and old-fashioned side dishes instead to cook up this month. Enjoy!
CREAMED CORN
Serves 4-6
5 large ears fresh corn or frozen ears of corn work just as well
2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 chopped onion
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cut kernels from corn into a medium bowl (about 4 to 4 1/2 cups kernels). Using the dull side of knife... be sure to also scrape milk and pulp from cobs into bowl too...as it adds flavor to the recipe. In a blender...or food processor puree 1 cup of the corn kernels and the milk. Set aside.
In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet...melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and the remaining 3 1/2 cups corn to the pan...and cook until the onion begins to soften...approximately 7 minutes. Add pureed corn mixture to skillet...bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium low and cook...stirring occasionally...until tender...about 15 minutes.
Add cornstarch...the fresh thyme..salt and pepper to corn mixture...stir well. Cook...stirring frequently...until thickened about 5 minutes. Serve...and enjoy!
BACON BALSAMIC BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Serves 4-6
You say no one likes Brussels sprouts in your family? Put bacon in it and they will!
4 slices thick-cut bacon...chopped
1 pound Brussels sprouts...ends trimmed off and then cut in half
1/2 chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp...about 5-6 minutes.Remove the cooked bacon...and let cool...then crumble and set aside. Keep the bacon fat in the pan.
Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan...and cook until crisp and browned on the outside and fork tender about 10 minutes. Add the parsley...the balsamic vinegar...lemon zest...salt and pepper and stir to combine. Sprinkle in the bacon...and then serve.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Clean out your linen closet...and gather up towels..washcloths...blankets and sheets that you no longer use or want...and pass them out to homeless people you see...or give them to a homeless shelter.
My Thanksgiving turkey shopping has become a very special yearly tradition for me...something that brings me great pleasure. Traditions matter...they are the common thread of humanity...that always brings us closer together. And make good times and wonderful memories.
As I set my Thanksgiving table with my yellow and gold china...and silver...handed down to me from my husbands mom...I feel connected to all the women...and men...who are doing exactly the same thing as me.. setting their holiday table with the very best...they have...because they too value the beauty...the soul...of following and keeping traditions.And they also know how vital it is to pass these traditions on to their daughters and sons too.
In this season of my life...with grown children...and a grandchild...and seeing our lives becoming more and more about technology...social media...fast...and cheap... I feel now more than ever...the value of traditions and the gifts that they give us to live a more grounded...enriched life...needs to be held on to.
Technology can't and never will replace the sharing of family history or traditions...or the gathering of family and friends around the table for a good meal. Or the pleasant hum of meal preparation from folks in the kitchen cooking together...or the sound of laughing children...playing together while they wait to eat.
And most importantly...taking this one day...when hopefully we need to be practicing it in each moment...the sight of bowing heads and grateful hearts...expressed through a prayer of thankfulness for all each one of us...really has to be grateful for.
We are all so blessed.
This Thanksgiving no matter if it is just you...or a gathering of 2 or 20...make it special...create a day of tradition...of mindfulness and care...that each and everyone present will remember always...close to their hearts...and want to return to...year after year.
Because traditions have soul
And that makes life worth living.
Keeper of Traditions,
Victoria
Thanks for time to be together, turkey, talk, and tangy weather.
For harvest stored away, home, and hearth and holiday.
For Autumn's frosty art, and abundance in the heart
For neighbors, and November nice things, new things to remember.
For kitchen, kettles' croon kith and kin expected soon.
For sizzles, sights, and sounds, and something special that about.
That spells thanks for joy in living and a jolly good Thanksgiving.
by Aileen Fisher
PRAYER...
" Help me be aware in each moment...how much I have to be thankful for."
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR NOVEMBER...
November 1st...Day of the Dead...All Saints Day...November 5th...Guy Fawkes Day in Britain ...November 11th...Armistice Day in Belgium...France...November 11th...Remembrance Day in Canada...November 11th...Veterans Day...United States...November 24th...Thanksgiving Day in America...November 30th...St. Andrew's Day in Scotland
FACTS ABOUT NOVEMBER... Throughout much of history November has often been thought of as a somber month...because it signaled the start of Winter. Folks would spend the whole month storing the harvest and preparing their food and homes in order to survive the Winter.
FOLKLORE...
" Dull November brings the blast,
Then the leaves whirling fast."
GARDENING TIP...
Place your cold sensitive potted plants in protected areas or indoors. Plant bulbs now. Reduce your watering on your lawns.
HOMEMAKING TIP... Clean your woodwork in each room...and wipe down your doors and doorknobs with pure Lavender essential oil...it will kill bacteria...will not harm your doors...and leave each room smelling fresh with the scent of Lavender
FULL MOON... Is on November 14th
FLOWERS...The chrysanthemum is the lovely flower of this month
GEMS...The Topaz is the gem of this month
TEACHINGS...This is the month to really see clearly how much you really do have to be grateful for in your life...and make a promise to yourself to always be aware of this truth each and every day. Practice giving more this month...because it is the right thing to do...without expecting in return.
THANKSGIVING GRATITUDE JARS
This Thanksgiving get your family and friends involved in a wonderful creative craft...by providing them all the supplies...to make their own Thanksgiving GRATITUDE JAR. After they have decorated their jars...be sure to tell them...that the purpose of their decorated GRATITUDE JAR is for them to place small pieces of paper...that they have written what they are grateful for each day...and place it in the jar.Also let them know...that they can begin practicing what they are grateful for...by writing their first gratitude slip of paper...that Thanksgiving Day...and then each and every day after that...until the next Thanksgiving day...giving each person a full 12 months to fill their GRATITUDE JAR.
Ask them to bring their decorated GRATITUDE JAR...the following Thanksgiving...to share with everyone.
SUPPLIES...
markers
tags to write GRATITUDE JAR on
empty clean jars with lids
glue gun or tacky glue
different colored ribbon
gem stones...decals...stickers...dried flowers
glitter
DAY OF THE DEAD...
Day Of The Dead is practiced on November 1st-November 2nd in many cultures throughout the world...including gaining in popularity in the United States.I t is a celebration of taking a day and evening to honor one's families who have passed away...with family altars...the cleaning of grave sites...placing flowers and food out for the deceased family members...including the painting of sugar skulls.
Below is a simple and loving honoring way you can honor family that has passed away...but please feel free to add your own way of celebrating and honoring their lives.
Set out a small table...or use an area on any table... with family pictures of relatives that have passed away. Place a small vase of flowers or Rosemary...an herb that is a symbol of remembrance...on the table...and include a white pillar candle...that you can light throughout the day or evening.
Keep the candle lit...and when you feel it is right...take a few moments to pause...look at their pictures...and recall happy times and memories with them. Bless them and thank them for being in your life.
If you like...share stories about your relatives who have passed away with your family around the dinner table that evening...keeping those you loved...and lost alive in your hearts and minds.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Keep your November home decorating simple...and natural by setting out trays and bowls of beautiful apples. They look so pretty in any room in the house...and they can also be eaten by family and guests.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
I am sure by now...you are so over any recipe that has to do with turkey...or pumpkin...so I wanted to give you some tasty and old-fashioned side dishes instead to cook up this month. Enjoy!
CREAMED CORN
Serves 4-6
5 large ears fresh corn or frozen ears of corn work just as well
2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 chopped onion
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cut kernels from corn into a medium bowl (about 4 to 4 1/2 cups kernels). Using the dull side of knife... be sure to also scrape milk and pulp from cobs into bowl too...as it adds flavor to the recipe. In a blender...or food processor puree 1 cup of the corn kernels and the milk. Set aside.
In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet...melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and the remaining 3 1/2 cups corn to the pan...and cook until the onion begins to soften...approximately 7 minutes. Add pureed corn mixture to skillet...bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium low and cook...stirring occasionally...until tender...about 15 minutes.
Add cornstarch...the fresh thyme..salt and pepper to corn mixture...stir well. Cook...stirring frequently...until thickened about 5 minutes. Serve...and enjoy!
BACON BALSAMIC BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Serves 4-6
You say no one likes Brussels sprouts in your family? Put bacon in it and they will!
4 slices thick-cut bacon...chopped
1 pound Brussels sprouts...ends trimmed off and then cut in half
1/2 chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp...about 5-6 minutes.Remove the cooked bacon...and let cool...then crumble and set aside. Keep the bacon fat in the pan.
Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan...and cook until crisp and browned on the outside and fork tender about 10 minutes. Add the parsley...the balsamic vinegar...lemon zest...salt and pepper and stir to combine. Sprinkle in the bacon...and then serve.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Clean out your linen closet...and gather up towels..washcloths...blankets and sheets that you no longer use or want...and pass them out to homeless people you see...or give them to a homeless shelter.
Sunday, October 23, 2016
OCTOBER SEASONAL LIVING SUNDAY SUPPERS 2016
Nothing says home...like the wonderful aroma of food coming from your kitchen. It says to everyone...you are so very welcome to be here.Cooking good...homemade food...also means you care about your yourself... and your family...and friends.
Sunday Suppers is a meal that everyone will look so forward to each week...so make it a special celebration by using your best dishes...silverware and glasses...and add fresh flowers or small vases of herbs to decorate your table with.
Include each family or friend member that is sharing your Sunday Supper with...to share what is going on with them...including their hopes and dreams...and it goes without saying...start your meal with a prayer or a gratitude blessing...for all you have...and being able to spend this time together.
I do not know anyone who doesn't love pasta...or a tasty pasta sauce. It seems to be a universal food...as well as a comfort food...and is my recipe for this Sunday Supper...as well as another apple dessert...as apples are in season this month.
"Because nothing says love...like something homemade."
BEEF MARENGO
Serves 4-6
This recipe calls for veal...but as veal can be expensive...I substitute beef stew meat instead...which is kinder to your budget. It tastes just as good as you will see. You can double or triple this recipe easily.
3 pounds beef stew meat...cut into 2 inch pieces
1/4 cup all purpose flour
salt and freshly ground pepper
7 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow onion
2 cloves garlic...minced
1 1/2 cups white wine
1 1/4 cups canned crushed tomatoes with juice
1 /2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 wide piece of orange zest...(orange zest is a piece of orange peel)
1 pound white mushrooms quartered
4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley ( Italian)
3/4 pound wide egg noodles...cooked according to package directions
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Pat the beef stew meat dry. Put the flour in a large zippered plastic bag and season with salt and pepper. Shake to mix well. Place the beef stew meat in the bag and shake until evenly coated.
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat...heat 4 tablespoons of the olive oil.Add the stew meat to the pot...and cook until evenly browned on all sides...about 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer the meat to a bowl. Add 2 more tablespoons of the olive oil to the pot and heat over medium-high heat. Add the onion and saute until lightly browned and softened...about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the wine and deglaze the pot...being sure to scrape up any browned bits. Add the tomatoes with their juice...basil...thyme...orange zest...and salt and pepper to taste and bring to a simmer. Return the stew meat to the pot...and stir to combine.
Cover the pot...place in the oven and cook until the meat is tender when pierced with a fork...about 1 1/2 hours.
Toward the end of cooking...cook the mushrooms...in a frying pan over medium-high heat...with the remaining olive oil...for about 3-4 minutes or until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
Start cooking your wide egg noodles...according to package directions.
Take the Beef Marengo out of the oven...uncover and discard the orange zest. Place on top of the stove...and on medium-low heat bring to a boil...until it is slightly thickened. Add the mushrooms...and 2 tablespoons of the parsley. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Drain the egg noodles...getting ready to serve. To serve...spoon the Beef Marengo over the egg noodles...garnish with more parsley. Serve with a nice green salad and garlic bread or rolls if you wish.
EASY APPLE CRUMBLE
Serves 8
Who does not love an apple dessert? Talk about a comfort dessert! This is cooked in a cast iron skillet...a basic cooking pan in my house...and is cooked in the oven just like the main course...very easy and ever so good.
12 cups sliced Gala apples ( about 6 apples)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar...divided
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/4 cup gingersnap cookies
1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
1/2 cup walnuts chopped
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Vanilla ice cream
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Using butter or olive oil...grease a cast iron skillet or baking pan. In a large bowl...stir together apples...1 cup sugar...and lemon juice. Set aside.
In a food processor pulse the cookies until finely ground. In a medium bowl...stir together 1/2 cup cookie crumbs...oats...brown sugar...flour...and the salt. Stir in the softened butter and walnuts until mixture is crumbly. Set aside.
Strain apple mixture...discarding excess liquid. Stir in cornstarch...cinnamon and remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Pour into prepared pan...and top with cookie mixture.
Bake until fruit is hot and the top is golden brown...about 40 to 50 minutes. Serve with Vanilla ice cream.
Happy Sunday,
Victoria
Sunday Suppers is a meal that everyone will look so forward to each week...so make it a special celebration by using your best dishes...silverware and glasses...and add fresh flowers or small vases of herbs to decorate your table with.
Include each family or friend member that is sharing your Sunday Supper with...to share what is going on with them...including their hopes and dreams...and it goes without saying...start your meal with a prayer or a gratitude blessing...for all you have...and being able to spend this time together.
I do not know anyone who doesn't love pasta...or a tasty pasta sauce. It seems to be a universal food...as well as a comfort food...and is my recipe for this Sunday Supper...as well as another apple dessert...as apples are in season this month.
"Because nothing says love...like something homemade."
BEEF MARENGO
Serves 4-6
This recipe calls for veal...but as veal can be expensive...I substitute beef stew meat instead...which is kinder to your budget. It tastes just as good as you will see. You can double or triple this recipe easily.
3 pounds beef stew meat...cut into 2 inch pieces
1/4 cup all purpose flour
salt and freshly ground pepper
7 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow onion
2 cloves garlic...minced
1 1/2 cups white wine
1 1/4 cups canned crushed tomatoes with juice
1 /2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 wide piece of orange zest...(orange zest is a piece of orange peel)
1 pound white mushrooms quartered
4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley ( Italian)
3/4 pound wide egg noodles...cooked according to package directions
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Pat the beef stew meat dry. Put the flour in a large zippered plastic bag and season with salt and pepper. Shake to mix well. Place the beef stew meat in the bag and shake until evenly coated.
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat...heat 4 tablespoons of the olive oil.Add the stew meat to the pot...and cook until evenly browned on all sides...about 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer the meat to a bowl. Add 2 more tablespoons of the olive oil to the pot and heat over medium-high heat. Add the onion and saute until lightly browned and softened...about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the wine and deglaze the pot...being sure to scrape up any browned bits. Add the tomatoes with their juice...basil...thyme...orange zest...and salt and pepper to taste and bring to a simmer. Return the stew meat to the pot...and stir to combine.
Cover the pot...place in the oven and cook until the meat is tender when pierced with a fork...about 1 1/2 hours.
Toward the end of cooking...cook the mushrooms...in a frying pan over medium-high heat...with the remaining olive oil...for about 3-4 minutes or until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
Start cooking your wide egg noodles...according to package directions.
Take the Beef Marengo out of the oven...uncover and discard the orange zest. Place on top of the stove...and on medium-low heat bring to a boil...until it is slightly thickened. Add the mushrooms...and 2 tablespoons of the parsley. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Drain the egg noodles...getting ready to serve. To serve...spoon the Beef Marengo over the egg noodles...garnish with more parsley. Serve with a nice green salad and garlic bread or rolls if you wish.
EASY APPLE CRUMBLE
Serves 8
Who does not love an apple dessert? Talk about a comfort dessert! This is cooked in a cast iron skillet...a basic cooking pan in my house...and is cooked in the oven just like the main course...very easy and ever so good.
12 cups sliced Gala apples ( about 6 apples)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar...divided
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/4 cup gingersnap cookies
1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
1/2 cup walnuts chopped
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Vanilla ice cream
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Using butter or olive oil...grease a cast iron skillet or baking pan. In a large bowl...stir together apples...1 cup sugar...and lemon juice. Set aside.
In a food processor pulse the cookies until finely ground. In a medium bowl...stir together 1/2 cup cookie crumbs...oats...brown sugar...flour...and the salt. Stir in the softened butter and walnuts until mixture is crumbly. Set aside.
Strain apple mixture...discarding excess liquid. Stir in cornstarch...cinnamon and remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Pour into prepared pan...and top with cookie mixture.
Bake until fruit is hot and the top is golden brown...about 40 to 50 minutes. Serve with Vanilla ice cream.
Happy Sunday,
Victoria
Sunday, October 16, 2016
OCTOBER SEASONAL LIVING SUNDAY SUPPERS 2016
Who doesn't love the smell of a chicken roasting in the oven on a Sunday afternoon? Or the aroma of a potato dish cooking in the oven? No one that is who! My recipes for this blog post is just that...roast chicken...and a really good French potato dish...that everyone will want seconds with!
If you have never tried cooking or even eating French food...you will be surprised how easy it really is...and ever so fulfilling. And I have also included a French dessert...a delectable apple tart...that is made easy for you...by using frozen puff pastry... I believe it is as good as homemade puff pastry...and a heck of a lot easier on your nerves.
"Because nothing says love...like something homemade."
HERB ROASTED CHICKEN
Makes 4 servings
1 4-5 whole chicken
2 tablespoons butter...softened
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Preheat the oven to 375. Rinse chicken cavity...then pat dry. Tuck wing tips under back.Place chicken breast side up in shallow roasting pan. Combine butter...and garlic...then spread over chicken.In a small bowl...stir together remaining ingredients...then sprinkle over chicken.
Roast the chicken about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours or until chicken is done. If the chicken starts to get too brown...cover loosely with foil. When the chicken is dine...remove from oven...covered with foil... for about 10 minutes...then carve and serve.
POTATOES SAVOYARDE
Makes 6 servings
3 tablespoons unsalted butter...cut into small pieces
1 tablespoon melted butter for buttering the pan only
3 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley
1 1/2 cups ( 6 ounces) shredded Gruyere cheese
freshly ground pepper
6 russet or Yukon gold potatoes...unpeeled and cut into 1/4 inch slices
1 1/2 cups chicken stock... ( I use low salt organic chicken stock)
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Brush the brush and sides of a 2-quart baking dish with the 1 tablespoon melted butter. In a small bowl...stir together the garlic...parsley...cheese...and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Layer one-third of the potatoes in the prepared dish...sprinkle one-third of the garlic-cheese mixture over the potatoes and dot with 1 tablespoon of the cut butter. Repeat with the rest of the remaining potatoes...garlic-cheese mixture and butter.Top with any remaining potatoes. Pour the stock over the potatoes... sprinkle the rest of the garlic-cheese mixture evenly over the top...and dot with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Cover with buttered piece of foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil...and continue baking uncovered until the top is browned and crusty and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork...30 to 40 minutes longer. Serve at once.
***I add about 1 cup more Gruyere cheese to this recipe to be honest...do what works for you.
TARTE TATIN or APPLE TART
Serves 6
1 cup superfine sugar or granulated sugar
1 1/4 sticks unsalted butter
4 Golden Delicious apples...peeled...cored...and sliced
1 sheet frozen...ready to eat puff pastry
all-purpose flour for dusting
vanilla ice cream to serve (optional)
Place an 8-inch ovenproof skillet ( a cast iron skillet is perfect for this) over low heat and add the sugar.Melt the sugar until it starts to caramelize...but do not let it burn...then add the butter and stir it in to make a light toffee sauce... ( a light brown color). Remove from heat.
Place the apple slices in the skillet on top of the toffee sauce. The apples should fill the skillet. Put the skillet over medium heat and cover. Simmer...without stirring...for about 5-1-0 minutes...until the apples soak up some of the sauce...then remove from the heat.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.Roll out the pastry dough ( make sure it is really cold...for easy handling) on a lightly floured surface...making sure it is large enough to thickly cover the skillet with extra space on the sides. Lay it on top of the apples...and tuck the edges down between the fruit and skillet until it is sealed. Do not worry about making it look too neat...it will be inverted before eating.
Put the skillet with the apple tart in it...in the oven now...and bake for 25-35 minutes...checking to make sure the pastry doesn't burn. The pastry should be puffed and golden. Remove from the oven and let rest for 30-60 minutes.
When you are ready to eat...make sure the tart is still a little warm...and place a plate on top of the tart.Carefully invert it ( flip it upside down) and lift the skillet off. Serve immediately with vanilla ice cream if you wish. This dessert will get raves...to be ready to bow with pride!!!
Happy Sunday Suppers,
Victoria
Sunday, October 9, 2016
OCTOBER SEASONAL LIVING SUNDAY SUPPERS 2016
Wishing you all a wonderful and relaxing Sunday...including keeping the timeless tradition of making a Sunday Supper...and gathering around the table with family or friends.
Sunday Suppers have a long history...and used to be a "must" in our culture. Even families who weren't religious would come together on Sundays to share a big home cooked meal and be together.
I believe this tradition should never be lost...especially in our busy and often disconnected world. Make time for your family and friends...and have a big Sunday Supper.Cook...eat...talk and laugh together...because that is really what the tradition of Sunday Suppers is all about.
"Because nothing says love...like something homemade."
The recipes for this post...are good...easy...and budget wise...because as you know...Seasonal living is all about eating seasonal food...which is being resourceful...making it yourself...and living within your means.
I am featuring pork...for the main course...it is darn good eating...budget wise...and most everyone loves pork.
PORK SALTIMBOCCA
serves 4
This is such a very tasty version of saltimbocca...which usually calls for veal...an expensive cut of meat
1 pound 2 ounces pork tenderloin...fat and membrane removed...sliced into 8 equal pieces
16 slices sliced prosciutto
8 sage leaves
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 tablespoons dry white wine
1 tablespoon drained small capers
freshly ground pepper
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees. Put the pork pieces on a cutting board...cover with plastic wrap...and then beat with a meat mallet...or rolling pin until 1/16 inch thick. Season each piece with a little pepper.
Lay 2 slices of prosciutto...slightly overlapping...on a clean cutting board...or large plate...and put a sage leaf in the middle. Sit a piece of pork on top.Wrap the prosciutto around the pork to make a package...the prosciutto should stick to itself...but if you want you can secure it with a wooden toothpick. Repeat this process...making the 8 pork packages in total.
Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over...medium high heat. When the butter is foaming...add the pork packages and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the prosciutto is crisp. You might need to cook these in two batches. Transfer the pork salimbocca to the oven to keep warm.
Add the wine to the pan...to deglaze. Let it bubble about 1 minute...being sure to scrape the meat morsels in the pan to add flavor to the dish. Remove from heat...and stir in the capers.Take the pork from the oven and spoon the sauce and capers...over the pork saltimbocca. Serve immediately...garnishing with fresh sage. Serve this dish with fresh green beans...and creamy polenta.
BANANAS IN CARAMEL SAUCE
serves 2-4
Who does not love a decadent dessert? Bananas are always in seasonal...and caramel sauce is easier to make then you think.This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup sugar
pinch of salt
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 ripe bananas...but still firm...peeled and sliced into 1/2 thick slices
In a medium frying pan over medium-high heat...melt the butter...and swirl it over the pan. Sprinkle the sugar and salt over the melted butter and stir gently.Cook this mixture...stirring occasionally until it begins to melt. As it melts...scrape the sides of the pan down...using a rubber scraper or wooden spoon. Continue doing this until the mixture is completely melted.
Gently whisk the mixture while you pour in the cream. Let it melt...then start stirring again. Continue cooking until you have a creamy...golden-brown caramel sauce.
Add the sliced bananas and arrange in the pan...so they are submerged. Cook for 1-2 minutes...just until bananas have softened. Remove from heat.
Let cool for 2-3 minutes...then serve over vanilla ice cream. Oh my...you will enjoy this...you will want to lick your spoon!
Happy Sunday Supper,
Victoria
Sunday Suppers have a long history...and used to be a "must" in our culture. Even families who weren't religious would come together on Sundays to share a big home cooked meal and be together.
I believe this tradition should never be lost...especially in our busy and often disconnected world. Make time for your family and friends...and have a big Sunday Supper.Cook...eat...talk and laugh together...because that is really what the tradition of Sunday Suppers is all about.
"Because nothing says love...like something homemade."
The recipes for this post...are good...easy...and budget wise...because as you know...Seasonal living is all about eating seasonal food...which is being resourceful...making it yourself...and living within your means.
I am featuring pork...for the main course...it is darn good eating...budget wise...and most everyone loves pork.
PORK SALTIMBOCCA
serves 4
This is such a very tasty version of saltimbocca...which usually calls for veal...an expensive cut of meat
1 pound 2 ounces pork tenderloin...fat and membrane removed...sliced into 8 equal pieces
16 slices sliced prosciutto
8 sage leaves
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 tablespoons dry white wine
1 tablespoon drained small capers
freshly ground pepper
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees. Put the pork pieces on a cutting board...cover with plastic wrap...and then beat with a meat mallet...or rolling pin until 1/16 inch thick. Season each piece with a little pepper.
Lay 2 slices of prosciutto...slightly overlapping...on a clean cutting board...or large plate...and put a sage leaf in the middle. Sit a piece of pork on top.Wrap the prosciutto around the pork to make a package...the prosciutto should stick to itself...but if you want you can secure it with a wooden toothpick. Repeat this process...making the 8 pork packages in total.
Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over...medium high heat. When the butter is foaming...add the pork packages and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the prosciutto is crisp. You might need to cook these in two batches. Transfer the pork salimbocca to the oven to keep warm.
Add the wine to the pan...to deglaze. Let it bubble about 1 minute...being sure to scrape the meat morsels in the pan to add flavor to the dish. Remove from heat...and stir in the capers.Take the pork from the oven and spoon the sauce and capers...over the pork saltimbocca. Serve immediately...garnishing with fresh sage. Serve this dish with fresh green beans...and creamy polenta.
BANANAS IN CARAMEL SAUCE
serves 2-4
Who does not love a decadent dessert? Bananas are always in seasonal...and caramel sauce is easier to make then you think.This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup sugar
pinch of salt
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 ripe bananas...but still firm...peeled and sliced into 1/2 thick slices
In a medium frying pan over medium-high heat...melt the butter...and swirl it over the pan. Sprinkle the sugar and salt over the melted butter and stir gently.Cook this mixture...stirring occasionally until it begins to melt. As it melts...scrape the sides of the pan down...using a rubber scraper or wooden spoon. Continue doing this until the mixture is completely melted.
Gently whisk the mixture while you pour in the cream. Let it melt...then start stirring again. Continue cooking until you have a creamy...golden-brown caramel sauce.
Add the sliced bananas and arrange in the pan...so they are submerged. Cook for 1-2 minutes...just until bananas have softened. Remove from heat.
Let cool for 2-3 minutes...then serve over vanilla ice cream. Oh my...you will enjoy this...you will want to lick your spoon!
Happy Sunday Supper,
Victoria
Sunday, October 2, 2016
OCTOBER SEASONAL LIVING SUNDAY SUPPERS 2016
October...I love the tradition of Sunday Suppers...that many cultures practice throughout the world...and I know... many of you also embrace this lovely weekly tradition and bonding with loved ones...each and every Sunday...to share a special meal...and spend time together.
Food...no matter where you live...or who you are...always brings people together... to a common ground... and common connection...the pleasure and joy...of shopping for...preparing...and eating a good meal.
In a world where we always seem to be in a hurry...striving for more...seeking instant gratification...and grabbing food on the go...the value and tradition of Sunday Suppers...can and will add something vital...something special...to look forward to each week...and add so many happy memories to each and everyone you love and care about.
Your Sunday Suppers do not have to be fancy...or perfect...just good food... made with care and love...as well as... good old-fashioned family time.
All of my October Sunday Suppers are seasonal...and call for seasonal ingredients...so this month's recipes work perfectly for this month. Cooking by the seasons...is a resourceful...money wise...and more healthy way to eat...and please be sure to buy your ingredients locally...to support your local economy.
So let's get going on my Sunday Suppers for October...is your apron on yet?
Because nothing says love...like something homemade!
BRAISED SHORT RIBS IN RED WINE
Short ribs are a very inexpensive cut of meat...and very tasty. Your wine you use for cooking does not have to be an expensive wine...just one that you would actually want to drink will do fine.
Serves 6
1/4 cup olive oil
5 pounds beef short ribs
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 large onions...chopped
4 large carrots...chopped
3 cups red wine...such as a Merlot
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 head garlic...split in half and sliced
1/2 bunch fresh chives...about 1/4 cup...chopped for the garnish
Heat the olive oil in a heavy- bottomed pot on medium-high heat. Season the ribs with salt and pepper...then add to the pot and brown...turning frequently...until the ribs are nicely browned and caramelized on all sides.
Remove the ribs from the pot...and most of the fat...leaving about 3 tablespoons...and then add the onions and carrots...and cook over medium heat until the veggies soften and are lightly browned.
Add the wine to the veggies...turn the heat to high and boil until the wine is reduced by about half.
Return the meat to the pot...add the thyme...garlic...and add 4 cups cold water or beef broth...so the meat is just covered. Cover with a lid...and simmer for at least 3 hours...or until the meat pulls away from the bone.
Transfer the cooked meat to a plate...and discard any bones or fat.Strain the liquid into a bowl. Next put the strained liquid back into the pot...and cook until it has thickened or reduced about 15 minutes. Put back the short ribs and bring to a simmer over medium high heat to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To serve...sprinkle fresh chives over the short ribs and sauce. This would be really great served with mashed potatoes or wide egg noodles.
And of course no Sunday Supper would be complete without a really good dessert.
CHOCOLATE GANACHE TART
Make this ever so yummy tart early in the day...or the day before serving... as it requires cooling...and chilling. This is a very rich and wonderful dessert.
Makes 8 servings
CRUST
1 1/2 cups finely ground chocolate wafer cookies...about 30 wafers
6 tablespoons unsalted butter...melted
GANACHE FILLING
8 ounces 60% bittersweet chocolate baking bar...broken or chopped into 1-inch pieces
6 tablespoons unsalted butter...cut into 1/2 inch cubes
2 large eggs...beaten
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
pinch of salt
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
unsweetened powdered cocoa for garnish
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, Butter the bottom and sides of an 8-inch springform cake pan.
To make the crust...in a medium bowl...stir together the ground wafers...and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moist. Transfer to the prepared pan...patting the mixture onto the bottom and three-quarters up the sides of the pan. Bake for about 10 minutes...and then cool completely in the pan.
To make the filling...melt together the chocolate and butter in the top of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl over barely simmering water...stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from the heat and let stand for several minutes.
In a medium bowl...mix together the eggs...cream...sugar...salt...and vanilla, Mix in the chocolate mixture and stir until well combined. Pour into the prepared crust. Tap the pan several times on a flat surface to eliminate any bubbles.
Bake for 20 or 25 minutes...until the filling has risen to an inch from the top of the pan...is set...and has slightly raised in the center. The center will continue to set...then fall slightly as it cools.
Transfer the tart still in the pan...to a rack and let it cool completely... about 2 hours. Then transfer to the refrigerator...uncovered...until the center is firm...3 to 4 hours. Remove the sides of pan...and sprinkle tart with cocoa...serve with whipped cream.
Food...no matter where you live...or who you are...always brings people together... to a common ground... and common connection...the pleasure and joy...of shopping for...preparing...and eating a good meal.
In a world where we always seem to be in a hurry...striving for more...seeking instant gratification...and grabbing food on the go...the value and tradition of Sunday Suppers...can and will add something vital...something special...to look forward to each week...and add so many happy memories to each and everyone you love and care about.
Your Sunday Suppers do not have to be fancy...or perfect...just good food... made with care and love...as well as... good old-fashioned family time.
All of my October Sunday Suppers are seasonal...and call for seasonal ingredients...so this month's recipes work perfectly for this month. Cooking by the seasons...is a resourceful...money wise...and more healthy way to eat...and please be sure to buy your ingredients locally...to support your local economy.
So let's get going on my Sunday Suppers for October...is your apron on yet?
Because nothing says love...like something homemade!
BRAISED SHORT RIBS IN RED WINE
Short ribs are a very inexpensive cut of meat...and very tasty. Your wine you use for cooking does not have to be an expensive wine...just one that you would actually want to drink will do fine.
Serves 6
1/4 cup olive oil
5 pounds beef short ribs
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 large onions...chopped
4 large carrots...chopped
3 cups red wine...such as a Merlot
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 head garlic...split in half and sliced
1/2 bunch fresh chives...about 1/4 cup...chopped for the garnish
Heat the olive oil in a heavy- bottomed pot on medium-high heat. Season the ribs with salt and pepper...then add to the pot and brown...turning frequently...until the ribs are nicely browned and caramelized on all sides.
Remove the ribs from the pot...and most of the fat...leaving about 3 tablespoons...and then add the onions and carrots...and cook over medium heat until the veggies soften and are lightly browned.
Add the wine to the veggies...turn the heat to high and boil until the wine is reduced by about half.
Return the meat to the pot...add the thyme...garlic...and add 4 cups cold water or beef broth...so the meat is just covered. Cover with a lid...and simmer for at least 3 hours...or until the meat pulls away from the bone.
Transfer the cooked meat to a plate...and discard any bones or fat.Strain the liquid into a bowl. Next put the strained liquid back into the pot...and cook until it has thickened or reduced about 15 minutes. Put back the short ribs and bring to a simmer over medium high heat to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To serve...sprinkle fresh chives over the short ribs and sauce. This would be really great served with mashed potatoes or wide egg noodles.
And of course no Sunday Supper would be complete without a really good dessert.
CHOCOLATE GANACHE TART
Make this ever so yummy tart early in the day...or the day before serving... as it requires cooling...and chilling. This is a very rich and wonderful dessert.
Makes 8 servings
CRUST
1 1/2 cups finely ground chocolate wafer cookies...about 30 wafers
6 tablespoons unsalted butter...melted
GANACHE FILLING
8 ounces 60% bittersweet chocolate baking bar...broken or chopped into 1-inch pieces
6 tablespoons unsalted butter...cut into 1/2 inch cubes
2 large eggs...beaten
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
pinch of salt
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
unsweetened powdered cocoa for garnish
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, Butter the bottom and sides of an 8-inch springform cake pan.
To make the crust...in a medium bowl...stir together the ground wafers...and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moist. Transfer to the prepared pan...patting the mixture onto the bottom and three-quarters up the sides of the pan. Bake for about 10 minutes...and then cool completely in the pan.
To make the filling...melt together the chocolate and butter in the top of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl over barely simmering water...stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from the heat and let stand for several minutes.
In a medium bowl...mix together the eggs...cream...sugar...salt...and vanilla, Mix in the chocolate mixture and stir until well combined. Pour into the prepared crust. Tap the pan several times on a flat surface to eliminate any bubbles.
Bake for 20 or 25 minutes...until the filling has risen to an inch from the top of the pan...is set...and has slightly raised in the center. The center will continue to set...then fall slightly as it cools.
Transfer the tart still in the pan...to a rack and let it cool completely... about 2 hours. Then transfer to the refrigerator...uncovered...until the center is firm...3 to 4 hours. Remove the sides of pan...and sprinkle tart with cocoa...serve with whipped cream.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
SEPTEMBER OLIVE OIL RECIPE 2016... LEMON POPPY SEED OLIVE OIL POUND CAKE
September is slowly waning...as October gently awaits to appear...so celebrate this month with a really great cake recipe...that you will want to make again and again. With the holidays right around the corner...so to speak...by you having this cake recipe...you will not only have a great dessert... for holiday company...but a wonderful homemade gift to give as well....when the occasion arises.
This cake recipe below continues my month of September Olive Oil recipes...and I hope you make and enjoy this wonderful recipe. This is a super moist cake due to the olive oil...as well as the sour cream. Because nothing says love...like something homemade!
LEMON POPPY SEED OLIVE OIL POUND CAKE
Makes 1 Bundt cake
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
4 large eggs
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
Glaze (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease a Bundt pan with olive oil. In a small bowl...combine the flours...baking powder...baking soda...salt...and poppy seeds. In a large bowl...beat the eggs with a handheld mixer...until light and slightly increased in volume. Add the sugar slowly while continuing to beat.The mixture will become light and fluffy. Slowly add the olive oil...then the lemon zest...lemon juice...and vanilla extract and beat another 2 minutes.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the batter...beating between additions.Pour the batter in to the prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the Bundt pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then invert the cake in the pan to a cake or serving platter to cool completely.
If you are making the glaze ...just whisk the fresh lemon juice...powered sugar...and vanilla extract in a small bowl until the mixture has a smooth consistency. Drizzle over the cake...when the cake is cool.
Eat more cake,
Victoria
This cake recipe below continues my month of September Olive Oil recipes...and I hope you make and enjoy this wonderful recipe. This is a super moist cake due to the olive oil...as well as the sour cream. Because nothing says love...like something homemade!
LEMON POPPY SEED OLIVE OIL POUND CAKE
Makes 1 Bundt cake
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
4 large eggs
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
Glaze (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease a Bundt pan with olive oil. In a small bowl...combine the flours...baking powder...baking soda...salt...and poppy seeds. In a large bowl...beat the eggs with a handheld mixer...until light and slightly increased in volume. Add the sugar slowly while continuing to beat.The mixture will become light and fluffy. Slowly add the olive oil...then the lemon zest...lemon juice...and vanilla extract and beat another 2 minutes.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the batter...beating between additions.Pour the batter in to the prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the Bundt pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then invert the cake in the pan to a cake or serving platter to cool completely.
If you are making the glaze ...just whisk the fresh lemon juice...powered sugar...and vanilla extract in a small bowl until the mixture has a smooth consistency. Drizzle over the cake...when the cake is cool.
Eat more cake,
Victoria
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