Hey hey hey.

Crazy freaking past month. I still feel like half of my person is gone and am still trudging through each day feeling the loss of Washer, but things are getting better, just still really sad and miss my pup like crazy. Trick is to stay super busy and that is what I have been doing. For one, we started back at the house again and have thrown ourselves into work. We are determined to get this freaking house done before the end of fall so we have been busting away all the days long. Things are getting done and now all the sheet rock is all up and the mr just finished the tape coat of mud…. Its all roses from here. 

For another thing, there is so much family stuff lately and to be soon. A new baby just came , little miss Kayla (I keep calling her Keba), We had a family reunion, minus a few family member last week. I have lots of littles wanting attention before school starts again and oh,  my little brother is getting shipped of to military school this week, (an actual military college that he actually wants to go too). Add another baby due in a month and the fact that fall is coming on fast and that means only one thing .. Family birthday season has arrived. Well that and apples. But no joke, pretty much a birthday a week for the next 9 months.  I already have about 7 cake requests. It’s about to get real around here.

As for cooking, well when Washer died, I pretty much stopped living for a week, but then when I started cooking again, I went through a week of making breads for the mr. (bread is very soothing to make, I think it’s all the kneading) And then it got so super duper hella hot out that we have pretty much given up on preparing food and are just eating straight up cucumbers, zucchinis, and tomatoes, sometimes dipped inn mustard and hummus, by the bucketful. I think I am averaging about 3 cucumbers and 5 tomatoes a day. And now I am starting to get a bit of acid reflux. Hopefully this week won’t be quite as crazy or quite as hot and I will have a little bit more time do some actual cooking, maybe some canning ( so many tomatoes!) and maybe share a recipe or 2.Lots of maybes here… we shall see.

Anyway, it is Sunday Sunday. The mr and I are leaving the house early and going for a little car, coffee, and maybe river adventure and are picking up a cast iron claw foot tub for the bathroom on the way. Wish us luck!

Internet stuff from the past week that might be of some interest to you.

-I am feeling the itch pretty hard. THIS COUPLE QUIT THEIR JOBS AND DROVE A VW VAN TO ARGENTINA…So this could be us soon?!

-If we decide to make hard cider again, a cider press is a must cause blending and squeezing 100 lbs of apple through cheesecloth last year was freaking ridiculous.  How to Build a Cider Press

-It was mother F*CKING hot hot hot this week but we survived, and without ac. Too Much Time in Air-Conditioning Is Warping Your Ability to Handle Heat

-I used to get so sick when reading in the car (and sometime still do) Reading Makes You Carsick Because Your Brain Thinks It’s Being Poisoned

-No a watermelon won’t grow in you stomach if you eat the seeds (it would be cool it did) Is It OK to Eat Watermelon Seeds?

-Love love love this house

-The Mystery Of Why Sunflowers Turn To Follow The Sun

-Blow your mind. There’s No Such Thing As a ‘Superfood’

-So doing this when we finish the house….WOVEN MACRAMÉ CHAIR TUTORIAL.

-Lovely. New Ocean Reefs Comprised of Rolled Paper

And some pictures.

Is it really Sunday already? This week has flown by, probably because it was to freaking hot that my brain kinda melted.  At least the heat is gone now and I can finally, maybe, function like a human being again.

Even with all the heat, lots of stuff has got done over at the house. Plumbing, walls fixed, tile samples bought. We even have narrowed down the kitchen design and are going to start doing the kitchen stuff soon. Everyday we get a little bit closer…. Now for the outside of the house, well not as great. Neither of us have dragged the mower out it a while and now there 3 ft tall thistle everywhere. Barefoot in the yard is not a good idea.And even though we worked worked worked all week, we did made a little time to finally pick our strawberries from our farm share. Now we eat nothing but zucchini and strawberries. Good stuff.

Other then that, not much else new. Not going to lie and say I haven’t been thinking about all the crazy shit that has gone on this past week in the country. Sad, alarming, frustrating. It’s a lot of heavy and it sucks. I am doing my best to send all good and loving energy out to the world. Kindness goes a log way.

As for today. hopefully the mr and I will be smart enough to chill a bit today, get in a little r&r, maybe bake some bread and go for a little bike ride before hitting it hard again tomorrow. (we will probably work at least some today too..the mr just won’t stop)

Some things to brows via the internet .

–2016 Will Be One Second Longer Than Expected. Well at least we get a bit more tine eh?

-Duh. Getting Kids to Like Vegetables Could Be As Simple As the Right Cartoon

-Do you feel a lot? You might be a empath?

-I could totally win this.. maybe next year. Move Over, Hot Dogs! There’s a Kale-Eating Competition Happening This Weekend.

–Holy shit, so crazy cool.

–  Everything is connected to everything. Your Senses Are Talking Behind Your Back

-Ink Paintings of Ghostly Felines and Chickens

-Super cute and happy house.

-Oh shit, just one more thing that sucks about the hot hot heat. There might be a huge avocado shortage. Hoard as many as you can!

–Learning From Healthy Bears (You Mean We Should Hibernate?).. I am in.

And some pictures from the weeks shenanigans of rivers farms,  and family crazy.

I am now starting to rethink my current state of feeling like crap. This can’t possibly all be allergies, I have been nearly hacking my lungs out all week and its just not right. I need it to stop, like today so that s that plan. make it STOP. That and we are borrowing my brother in laws truck today and going for a drive to the northern parts of Vermont to pick up, what is hopefully going to be, our new cast iron radiators!!! I am really excited because for one, I found them on craigslist and I love finding awesome stuff on there, and two, cause it’s suppose to be kinda crappy today so a nice drive that is also productive while I am making it (sickness) stop… Win win win!  And I cannot forget to get my butt to the library and return the massive stack that has been accumulating next to the door. I have been reading a lot, but instead of returning books when I am done, I just keep taking more out.. I might be maxing out my allotted amount of books I can take out at once.  And I am pretty sure there are a few overdue ones in that stack…..

How about you? Planning any super fantastic spring style fun stuff today,? Maybe getting out into the garden and doing a little planting or maybe busting out the summer clothes and spending the afternoon trying on all your old favorites that you forgot you had? Whatever you do, enjoy it, even if it involves doing absolutely nothing while eating your weight in popcorn. That is totally legit.

Internet from the internet.

-So I am kinda obsessed with finding a sweet ass retro/vintage stove like one of these right now,,,,lets see if this is a passing thing.

-A dating site to hook up Trump hating Americans with Canadians, you know, just in case we need to flee the country come November. (so smart)

-IF YOU’RE REFRIGERATING THESE FOODS, STOP

-These are some crazy shinny cakes.

–What Is ‘Natural’ Food? A Riddle Wrapped In Notions Of Good And Evil

-I have a thing for anatomically correct hearts, and these crochet wired hearts are super cool

–Colored Front doors are the best. I am thinking bright ass pink or orange for the new house.

– Sometimes being an adult sucks. 20 One-Sentence Reminders Every Reluctant ‘Adult’ Needs To Hear Right Now

– I love this. 30-Foot-Tall Dayglow Totems Places in the Desert

-Thinking about cross country trip and staying in a few tree houses, Glamping Style, on west coast (we are totally doing it1)

Loveliness in pictures.

Happy May Day!!!  Now that it’s May, it can’t snow any more! (right?)

Did you get some of that early week snow storm? Yeah, it was freaking fantastic. I left the house early on my bike with a few little n=snow flakes hitting my face, thinking it would clear up soon, only to have to walk my bike home by lunch time because it turned into a snow storm (I might be over extravagating, we got like 2 inches at most) but still!.) But now it’s lovely out, the trees are budding, the flowers are blooming and I have got my normal itchy as hell allergy eyes and sandals on my feet. No more winter jacket, i just can’t.

Lets see, what else. Oh, the mr installed all the windows at the house which has turned our little bungalow shell into an actual living space. Crazy what a few pieces of glass has done.. It’s no longer a outside/inside situation and the birds can’t get in anymore.   Things are moving along quite well and I am actually starting to see myself living there. Woo HOO! All I do now is daydream about hanging out in the kitchen or what colors I am going to paint the trim (medium dark grey with pops of colorful window trim?) and which room I am going to sit in a read every morning( I think I am going to have to move from room to room, too many choices) I guess I am on a good high from the windows so am ready to just blast through and get the rest of the house done.

As for today, I think I am going to try and put in some outdoor time. I will plug in my ears with some good tunes, grab me a ho.. and a rake and fluff up all the pretty things popping out of the ground! I am really excited, I haven’t spend any real time in the dirt yet this year so I hoping to get really really dirty.

Some stuff the internet had this week.

– I really want one of these Froob shirts…but which one?

-Some scientist is saying that hugging your dog can increase their stress level. I can see that, but I swear that my pup wants to be hugged (or man handled)

-I think I want to go to all of these Fairy Tale Villages, and you can actually visit all of them.

-INSPIRING STUDIO SPACES.

-Do you know the difference between cold brewed and iced coffee? And which one is better? Cold Brew Versus Iced Coffee:Which Is Actually Better? (I like them both!)

-Drug sniffing dogs, bomb sniffing dogs… Its about time for bee sniffing dogs. Keeping Bees Safe: It’s A Ruff Job, But This Doggy Detective Gets It Done

-Hell Yeah!!! 1 Minute of All-Out Exercise May Have Benefits of 45 Minutes of Moderate Exertion

-Get your mail and you lawn mowed..smart move Finland. Finland’s postal workers to mow lawns

-Hahahaha.. For all the crazy cat ladies (and gentleman) These Linguists Want to Help You Speak Fluent Cat but this new collar will give your cat an ACTUAL voice… Oh boy oh boy!

–EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS TO YOUR BODY ON HOT SAUCE

And a few pictures that I managed to take this week.

Holy crap, it’s Easter…. Well Happy Easter to you (if you celebrate it). And if no, happy beautiful spring day. It’s going to be so nice and warm and sunny today. I am really excited… spring is finally here!

This past week was epic for th house. The roof was ripped off and now the new addition is up! It all started on Monday when the mr got a phone call asking if he could go let the guys into the house(they were a day early). and three days later they were done, the walls and the roof were up!(not the roofing, we are doing that next week) It was like magic ad I couldn’t be happier. The upstairs is now huge and bright. Our new bedroom space is bigger then our entire living space now. I am all like Woo hoo!

When the guys were finished, the work started for us. We had to finish knocking all the walls down and ripping up all the shit floors. It’s been a hard on the body kinda week of work and every single muscle in my body is aching. (the mrs too but he doesn’t complain. He is a champ) 5 years ago I was able to rip apart a house and be like ” what what” the next day. Now I am like What what no.. creak creak” I am officially an old lady and now I need a break!

WE are taking a semi break today( although there might be a little framing and light cleaning might be in store) because it’s Sunday and it’s Easter. The family is getting together for food, fun and a egg hunt, which I am really excited about., and lots of sitting outside absorbing the warm sunshine and fresh clean springtime air. It’s going to be great. I am even planning on bringing a book and passing out on the back porch at some point.

What about you, any fantastic Easter/Sunday plans? Are you going to spend the day hunting down specially hidden Easter eggs, eating lots of chocolate eggs (and carrots I hope) and hanging with loved one?. I sure hope so. And don’t forget to get outside. We could all use the fresh air.

Some stuff to read if you get sick of all the jelly beans.

-Ever wonder how those magazines get those amazing photos of food? Well this article explains it all. Ceci N’Est Pas Ice Cream (Actually It’s Lard And Food Coloring)

-I love spring and all the pretty bloom that comes with it. 

-I went and got avocados right after I saw this (haven’t tried it yet though) HOW TO MAKE AN AVOCADO ROSE

-I was thinking about making the pup a new bed. I really like this design. (and fabric)

-Did you know that Ikea sold candy? I had no clue but here is a guide for the good and the bad. Top 10 IKEA Pick & Mix Candies You Need to Try

-One mans weed is another mans salad. How to Cook with Weeds

– I sometime think I can see a few more colors then is normal….A New Study Helps Explain Why Some People Can See So Many Colors

–These plates would make me so happy.. and not just for Easter. And these molds even though I don’t need them

–Trend Alert: 8 Techno Toilets cause we all need a gadgety toilet seat(no, not really)

– Is this for real? Unicorn Kisses Seltzer Water... As a seltzer water junky, I really freaking hope so.

And a couple photos.

Last Sunday was Valentines day, and I know that I told you that the mr and I don’t really celebrate. Well this year I woke up on Sunday with a few tiny palm sized paper hearts laid out near the coffee tray. Then a heart in the coffee beans, and in my coffee mug. I opened the fridge and everything I touched, a little paper heart fell out or was shoved into it(a heart in my hummus) And in my jacket, all my pockets, my shoes, my toothpaste.. …everywhere. It has been a whole week and I am still finding hearts falling out of weird places (Ii my dried lentil, in the couch cushions, and shoved into my books) EVERYWHERE!

I am not complaining. I know I am the luckiest lady here but I hope I found them all by now. (I think I might have gotten a bit snippy when a heart fell into my tea.)

And so the week has been heart filled, work filled, house and family full (as usual) The projects keep piling on which is great but crazy. So much at once, it a little hectic right now. I am going a little nuts with the weather, being a million below zero and jumping up to a nice crisp 50 above within 2 days… Its weird and crazy and making my head spin and my floors in my house so dirty. I am conflicted because it is winter and we should be living a winter life, but I am almost kinda over it now. I want to play in the dirt and plant green things and work on the outside of the house. But then again I could totally got for a huge storm with 2 feet of snow. …..

Other things. Lots of good food this week. I made falafel for the first time in a while (I’ll share next week) and have eaten my weight in sweet potato pudding. Oh, and I went to my first ever acupuncture appointment. SO cool, I think I am going to do it again. I am a champ at having little needles stuck in me and laying really still. I could do it all day!

A couple of the littles spent the night this weekend and woke up the next day to a couple more. We had us our hands full with 4 little people that all want to jump on us and eat all my carrots, mustard ,and the tiny marshmallows. But such good times were had. We made sprinkle fart pancakes, played with a basket of rocks, made little sketch books and went for a little hike. Ended the day at the book store, hanging out in the kids section (I want all the kids books) and meeting up with grandma where she force feed them all gigantic cookies. The mr and I then got to drop those tiny little sugar high people back off to there lovely parents. (haha) After wobbling home, we spent the night cleaning all the sticky stuff from every surface and cleaning the toilet and surrounding areas of all the pee. (I think the boys in my family have an aversion to proper aim).. Good time.

The week has been full to say the least. And hopefully today can be a quite one, with nothing much (there is always a little) but taking it slow, bottomless cup of hot drinks, finish my book, get a nap in and maybe finish pulling all the nails from the stairs.. maybe.

I hope you all are having a great weekend doing fun relaxing stuff.

Here is some internet things from the internet.

– Breakfast food is such a weird concept to me, especially here in America where everyone eats things I would consider a dessert. How the So-Called ‘Balanced Breakfast’ Reshaped America’s Morning Meal

-I love old Victorian homes.

-Someday I will have my own library and I want it to look something like this.

-Pretty cool but I don’t think its practical.  Living Jewelry That Grows While You Wear It

-Yes! I am a firm believer in mush! THE MAGIC OF MAKING MUSH FOR DINNER

–Is Organic More Nutritious? New Study Adds To The Evidence

-Very interesting and sad but try. A Hidden Cost to Giving Kids Their Vegetables

– 5 Useful Things to Know About Fresh Ginger.. I am a ginger freezer.

-“Harry Potter’ Film Concert Series”….this excites me much!

-I have been scouring craigslist for a sink like this (green one in first pic) for the bathroom. Anyone got one laying around? Oh, and I might be over black floor tile.. might.

And pictures from the week

Hey hey hey! Happy Valentines Day! Hope you have a loved one to share the day with (romantically or not)

How has your week been? We are getting right back into the swing of thingsand it has been a little too easy. It’s almost (almost) like we didn’t leave. The best thing I can think to do now is to start planning our next big adventure (pretty sure we are going cross county at then end of this summer) But before that we have the house to do. This week we have spent a good amount of time with drawings, measurements, looking at materials, and just trying to figure out what we want and or can do. (we can’t afford solid gold bath fixtures.. wonk wonk…) And the apartments. I think everyone and their mom wants to rent one of our apartments. So many showings.  The mr has been so good and running around showing places like 5 times a day, in the cold no less, but so far so good. We have a few new tenantslined up and ready to go.  Things are getting done around here!

But other then that. just thinking a bit much about spring. I am getting the feels for all sorts of dirty activities (planting things you dirty birds) and am thinking we should probably get seeds and get some plants going soon here. This lady is needing some kale!

Anyway. V day. Off to a great start. I am awake and inside and not outside so that’s awesome. I realized how cold it is out when last night after the pup came inside from his5 minute walk, I tried to take his leash off and my fingers froze to the metal clip. Yeah, its that f*cking cold. So no outside today(it’s suppose to be worse then yesterday)  Nope, just going to make a gallon of coffee, open the door and let the puppy go pee. Then I will close said door, sit on the couch, and continue my morning reading. This will be the way of the day. Coffee, reading, letting the pup go pee. Simple and satisfying. Oh and the mr and I are going to watch a movie later and eat lots of food.. The excitement is overflowing here!

How about you? Got any big plans? Don’t worry if you don’t, your big plans today should involve being happy and staying warm, but if you do. Go you! Have fun, and remember to keep your clothes on until you get inside!

Here is some internet I weeded through for you to look at.

–The Dark Origins Of Valentine’s Day. Not all pink and fluffy teddy bears.

-Is there a difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate… yes, and its kind of obvious.

-Having a major crush on these tiles for the new bathroom. what do you think?

-Color is more then just color.The Psychology of Color

-This reminds me of Iceland.. the whole country is geothermal. Citrus In The Snow: Geothermal Greenhouses Grow Local Produce In Winter

-Because you should know. How to make strawberry mice. (really cute!)

-I have forever slept with my feet stinking out. Sleep Hack: Keep Your Feet Outside Your Covers

-On food. Fat Isn’t Bad, Stupid is Bad

-I love this house and all the decor.

-And because whenyour young and you think it would be fun, You Can Now Study Tacos at the University of Kentucky. I know I would have.

And a few pics from the past week

Happy Sunday and keep it real!

-C

November 1.. this is some crazy shit. But at least today we get an extra hour, so that’s something. 

I am a slightly broken lady. Friday afternoon, after coming home from Washer’s birthday hike, I managed to fall backwards off  the middle of my staircase (it’s was a pretty high fall). Bam, right on my ass then into a pile on the floor.  Needless to say that it really freaking hurt and the past two days have been a little on the slow side. I have adapted a slight limp, my thumb on my hand got severely jammed so I can barely bend it, and I am sore all over. STUPID STAIRS!  I am not a graceful hurt person, more like a pissed off, want to break things, angry that I am hurt type. I also get kinda mean. I know it’s night a very becoming trait, but when I am sick or hurt, I want to be left alone to lick my wounds and anyone trying to be nice and do things for me makes me crazy. I know, I sound like an asshole, but when I am sick or hurt, I think I kinda am. 

But before the fall, my week was going pretty good. We had a pumpkin cookie decorating night which was pretty fun. A couple littles came over and we ate mac and cheese, decorated pumpkins blue (I could only find blue food coloring) and watched the Adams family. It was also Washers Birthday on Friday and we took him for a long birthday hike. The old man is 10, which just blows my mind. I can’t believe we have had him and been able to keep him alive for this long (just kidding). But for real, 10 years. And he still acts like a stupid puppy, except a slower moving, more distinguished  looking one. And he doesn’t chew the windows or floors anymore. He has some so far.

 What  else? There was some other stuff, but man, my brain is not working properly today so I’ll just leave it at that. 

So it’s Sunday and my plans include drinking a lot of coffee, making a tasteful playlist of all of my favorite christmas music, then listen to it while making washer dog cookies and more or less, kind of just bumming around all day. You know, to heal my ass. I’ll probably pick up a new book and make food as well, but no expectations.. I already told myself that if i didn’t move off the couch today, that that would be ok.

How about you? Got any exciting plans for the day? What are you planning on doing with your extra hour? 

If you are looking for something to do, here is some stuff to check out on the world wide web.

-I always think about this. Do We Waste A Lot Of Pumpkins We Could Be Eating? 

-A look inside the pottery studio if Brooke Winfrey.. Love her pieces!

-How to Keep (Most) of Your Herb Garden Going When It’s Cold 

-Going here is on my lifetime bucket list

-Where to Store Your Worn (But Not Dirty) Clothes This is something we struggle with.

-In Praise of the Humble Lentil… And praise I do, cause I eat like 4 lbs a week (no joke)

-Some great information of the science of cookie baking 

– I want these boots! 

–Oh so lovely Greenhouse Love

–I want a fireplace anywhere in my house, but a fireplace in the kitchen.. that would be fantastic. 

-Beautiful Pictures of a desert after a rain fall 

And pictures from the week

For the longest time now, I have been drinking a little turmeric with a little lemon first thing in the morning. It started as a medicinal drink, but quickly became a tasty habit. I have some stupid weird circulation condition called raynaud’s where changes in temp turn my fingers and toes into icicles. And for me, the worst time of the year for this condition is the spring (but spring is still my favorite). All the up and down of temperature and the wet cold damp weather is my trigger, not to forget to mention that those temp swings can get a girl sick. (I can’t get sick!!)

So way back when I started to drink for my health and the feeling in my fingers. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon , all super warming spices that help greatly with blood circulation, not to mention a whole bunch of other good things. (I could tell you and go on and on, but you can just look it up yourself) Ever since I started drinking and eating lots of these spices, my raynauds has gotten soooo sooo soooo much better. I still get cold finger and toes, but no where as severe and the way less often.

Now a few weeks ago the mr started making himself an afternoon turmeric tea. He read something on the internet about how it’s the best anti-inflammatory and good for achy joints. (Sure dude, listen to the internet and not me) Being a big guy doing construction and such, he gets really achy joints and there is only so much arnica and frozen peas a guy can do. So now he drinks this and I think he is starting to notice a difference. (less time with the frozen peas) And since he is making himself tea every afternoon, I started to make a spicy tea for myself in the afternoons too. I figured that a little extra goodness to ward off the chills and any larking illness is only a plus. It’s our after lunch treat that tastes good, is warm and soothing and is doing the body all sorts of good.

Spicy turmeric tea. You will get addicted and feel like awesomeness.

The stuff. Ground turmeric, ground ginger, saigon cinnamon and hot water. Additional yums with a little lemon and some honey if you like it sweet or have a scratchy throat.

Spices into a drinking vessel (I like a big jar)

And in goes the hot water. Give it a good stir and a squeeze of lemon (and sweeten if your gonna)

And watch it swirl. A drink that keeps this girl happy and healthy.

Something great to look forward.

-C

• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground saigon cinnamon (can use regular, but it’s not as spicy sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2- 2 cups hot water (not quite boiling)
• honey to taste (I only use if my throat is sore)
• lemon juice (optional)

Note… My measurements are just guidelines. You might like a little less turmeric or more ginger so make this drink any way that tastes best for you.

Grab yourself a big mug or jar, add in the spices and hot water, honey if you want it and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Stir with a spoon and drink. Keep spoon handy to give it a good stir every now and then

For the longest time now, I have been drinking a little turmeric with a little lemon first thing in the morning. It started as a medicinal drink, but quickly became a tasty habit. I have some stupid weird circulation condition called raynaud’s where changes in temp turn my fingers and toes into icicles. And for me, the worst time of the year for this condition is the spring (but spring is still my favorite). All the up and down of temperature and the wet cold damp weather is my trigger, not to forget to mention that those temp swings can get a girl sick. (I can’t get sick!!)

So way back when I started to drink for my health and the feeling in my fingers. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon , all super warming spices that help greatly with blood circulation, not to mention a whole bunch of other good things. (I could tell you and go on and on, but you can just look it up yourself) Ever since I started drinking and eating lots of these spices, my raynauds has gotten soooo sooo soooo much better. I still get cold finger and toes, but no where as severe and the way less often.

Now a few weeks ago the mr started making himself an afternoon turmeric tea. He read something on the internet about how it’s the best anti-inflammatory and good for achy joints. (Sure dude, listen to the internet and not me) Being a big guy doing construction and such, he gets really achy joints and there is only so much arnica and frozen peas a guy can do. So now he drinks this and I think he is starting to notice a difference. (less time with the frozen peas) And since he is making himself tea every afternoon, I started to make a spicy tea for myself in the afternoons too. I figured that a little extra goodness to ward off the chills and any larking illness is only a plus. It’s our after lunch treat that tastes good, is warm and soothing and is doing the body all sorts of good.

Spicy turmeric tea. You will get addicted and feel like awesomeness.

The stuff. Ground turmeric, ground ginger, saigon cinnamon and hot water. Additional yums with a little lemon and some honey if you like it sweet or have a scratchy throat.

Spices into a drinking vessel (I like a big jar)

And in goes the hot water. Give it a good stir and a squeeze of lemon (and sweeten if your gonna)

And watch it swirl. A drink that keeps this girl happy and healthy.

Something great to look forward.

-C

• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground saigon cinnamon (can use regular, but it’s not as spicy sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2- 2 cups hot water (not quite boiling)
• honey to taste (I only use if my throat is sore)
• lemon juice (optional)

Note… My measurements are just guidelines. You might like a little less turmeric or more ginger so make this drink any way that tastes best for you.

Grab yourself a big mug or jar, add in the spices and hot water, honey if you want it and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Stir with a spoon and drink. Keep spoon handy to give it a good stir every now and then

For the longest time now, I have been drinking a little turmeric with a little lemon first thing in the morning. It started as a medicinal drink, but quickly became a tasty habit. I have some stupid weird circulation condition called raynaud’s where changes in temp turn my fingers and toes into icicles. And for me, the worst time of the year for this condition is the spring (but spring is still my favorite). All the up and down of temperature and the wet cold damp weather is my trigger, not to forget to mention that those temp swings can get a girl sick. (I can’t get sick!!)

So way back when I started to drink for my health and the feeling in my fingers. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon , all super warming spices that help greatly with blood circulation, not to mention a whole bunch of other good things. (I could tell you and go on and on, but you can just look it up yourself) Ever since I started drinking and eating lots of these spices, my raynauds has gotten soooo sooo soooo much better. I still get cold finger and toes, but no where as severe and the way less often.

Now a few weeks ago the mr started making himself an afternoon turmeric tea. He read something on the internet about how it’s the best anti-inflammatory and good for achy joints. (Sure dude, listen to the internet and not me) Being a big guy doing construction and such, he gets really achy joints and there is only so much arnica and frozen peas a guy can do. So now he drinks this and I think he is starting to notice a difference. (less time with the frozen peas) And since he is making himself tea every afternoon, I started to make a spicy tea for myself in the afternoons too. I figured that a little extra goodness to ward off the chills and any larking illness is only a plus. It’s our after lunch treat that tastes good, is warm and soothing and is doing the body all sorts of good.

Spicy turmeric tea. You will get addicted and feel like awesomeness.

The stuff. Ground turmeric, ground ginger, saigon cinnamon and hot water. Additional yums with a little lemon and some honey if you like it sweet or have a scratchy throat.

Spices into a drinking vessel (I like a big jar)

And in goes the hot water. Give it a good stir and a squeeze of lemon (and sweeten if your gonna)

And watch it swirl. A drink that keeps this girl happy and healthy.

Something great to look forward.

-C

• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground saigon cinnamon (can use regular, but it’s not as spicy sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2- 2 cups hot water (not quite boiling)
• honey to taste (I only use if my throat is sore)
• lemon juice (optional)

Note… My measurements are just guidelines. You might like a little less turmeric or more ginger so make this drink any way that tastes best for you.

Grab yourself a big mug or jar, add in the spices and hot water, honey if you want it and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Stir with a spoon and drink. Keep spoon handy to give it a good stir every now and then

 I’ll let you know now, I am a make and eat soup all year long person. I can think of few things better then sitting outside, basking in the sun, hopefully with a light wind, a book in hand, enjoying a nice big cup of some good homemade soup. (Doesn’t that sound so freaking lovely?) This soup right here is perfect for just that. Parsnips are the best, kind of like a big white sweet, yet starchy carrots. And cooked together with a little bit of light and lemony thyme, rich earthy turmeric and a couple more chopped veggie….. you got yourself a nice thick and fragrant bowl of happiness that fills you up without weighing you down. It’s food you can eat that fills you up, leaves you feeling cozy, yet still wanting to hop on a bike or lace up the running shoes.  Hearty without the feeling of all the heaviness.

A perfect soup for spring! (or summer, winter, or fall)

The stuff. Parsnips, carrots, onion and garlic. Thyme and turmeric, salt and pepper. the tinniest bit of oil and water (water not shown)Chop all the veggies and the garlic, drizzle a dutch oven or a pot with oil, toss in the veggies. Add the turmeric, the thyme, and 1/2 cup of water. Sweet sweating the veggies. Turn pot on medium and cook until the water completely cooks out. When the veggies start to brown and stick to the pot, deglaze with water. Give a good stir and keep cooking. Repeat the deglazing process until the veggies are super soft and ready to blend. (I did this 4 times.. it only took 10 minutes)Add enough water to cover the cooked veggies. And now blend the heck out of it.. Go as smooth or chunky as you want. I blended as smooth as I could get with this crappy immersion blender. (Blender on loan until I finally decide on, and buy a new one)And there you have it. Scoop into bowls, add lots of cracked black pepper, and go to town. I made enough to save a bowl for later…  it didn’t last for later. 

Soup so good. 

-C

Parsnip Thyme and Turmeric Soup 

• 4 large parsnips
• 2 carrots
• 1 whole onion
• 3-4 cloves garlic
• 2 teaspoons thyme
• 2 teaspoons turmeric 
• salt and pepper
• olive oil
• water

Dice up the parsnips, carrots, garlic and onion and place into a large dutch oven or pot. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil,  sprinkle on the spices, salt and pepper and add about 1/2 cup of water. Turn heat on medium and start cooking down the veggies. Once the water evaporates and the veggies start to caramelize, deglaze pot with about a 1/2 cup of water. Give pot a stir, and continue to cook until water evaporates.  Repeat this 2-3 more times until the veggies are super soft and fragrant. 

When the  veggies are ready, add enough water to the pot to submerge the veggies. Bust out the immersion blender or dump into a blending device and blend until smooth (or the consistency that you want) Have a cup of water ready to thin out if needed. When blended, taste for salt and pepper, add more if you want, and cook on low heat until you are ready to serve.

Garnish with a lot of good cracked pepper

Eat from a vessel, use a spoon

There is a joke about Vermonters, that all we talk about is the weather. Well, it’s kind of true. But to our defense, we get a lot of weather, and it’s always changing and intense and both lovely and crazy and all over. So yeah, we talk. A lot, about the weather. And on that topic, I am trying so hard not to complain, but honestly, I am getting a little sick, both physically and mentally from all of these  super, to freaking cold temperatures. Yesterday the high was 0 ( which was at like 2 in the morning)  and factor in the windchill, the temp stayed at like 25 below. It f**king sucks. I can’t  stay outside for too long or else I will probably die. The dog  is having a hard time making it around the block before he gets ice paws, and the mister, well he even started wearing gloves (he wears a sweater all winter and never gets cold…..he is officially cold)

 And not only is the cold keeping us all indoors, but its making us all borderline sick. We both have been fighting something for the past few week. The headaches, stuffy nose, chest congestions. The puppy is getting super dry skin and gave himself a hot spot. BLAh!! Ok, enough! No more complaining

Because  I do really love the winter and all the pretty snow!!!!

But we are feeling kind of sick so to make us feel oh so much better, a fantastic, super tasty, healing, good for me, good for you, soup. Turmeric ginger carrot… oh man. Made with lots of ginger, turmeric and garlic and finished with a drizzle of raw honey. This soup is exactly what we need. All ingredients scream.. FEEL GOOD, BE WARM AND COZY! Almost everything in it has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties. The veggies are hearty and heathy and just eating soup helps to keep hydrated. And the best part..it tastes so freaking amazing. 

So whether  you are feeling a little mah, or just a little hungry.…this soup is where it’s at!

Lots of chopped up carrots, a small onion, a little bit of cauliflower I had left over and a small beet. If you don’t have the cauliflower and or a beet, just use  ares pepper or another 2 carrots.. no biggy. 

Then we have the fresh ginger ( you can use powdered) turmeric and garlic.  All the good healthy spicy and yummy stuff. 

I accidentally spilled the turmeric on the counter..but it kind of looks like I might have done it on purpose… yeah, let’s go with that.  Chop the garlic and he ginger into    chunksAnd toss into the pot to warm and activate. Just a little toasty toast. 

And the veggies are roasted and tender and smell so good.  It took a lot of will power to not eat the whole pan right there.

I added the roasted veggies and 3 cups water straight into my pot  with the spices because I used an emulsion blender. If you are using normal blender, add the veggies, the toasted spices and the water to the blender and blend until smooth. Then transfer to a pot.

Pretty much all blended together….(I left a few big chunks in there to snack on while I was waiting to eat serve…I was really hungry) and let to simmer for a little longer…

And now ladle into a bowl and get ready for a fantastic finish… drizzle a spoonful of raw honey into soup…….so so good. You could add the honey before serving, but heating it kills all the good antibacterial stuff so that’s why we wait. Then  I sprinkle some chopped kale and chives. (do it if you want, but not necessary)

Now enjoy. Let the warmth wash over you and feel all those good spices helping to fight the good fight to keep you well and all the yummy to satisfy your hunger.

And lets hope for some warm (above 0!!) weather!

-C

Turmeric Ginger Carrot Soup

Ingredients

• 5 large carrots
• 1 small onion
• 1 small beet*
• quarter head cabbage ( or a cup of frozen)*
• 2-3 teaspoons  turmeric 
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh  ginger (1/2 teaspoon if using powdered)
• 4-6 cloves garlic
• salt pepper
• raw honey (omit if vegan)

* If you don’t have or want to use beet and or the cauliflower, you can use a red pepper, a small sweet potato, or just use a few more carrots. 

Chop all veggies into similar sized chunks and toss into a lightly oiled pan or on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt.  Stick in oven at 425 for about 30 minutes or until all veggies are fork tender. 

In a large soup pot or dutch oven, toss chopped garlic, ginger and the turmeric and place on medium heat for a few minutes to activate the spices. Add the roasted veggies and 3 cups water to pot (if using emulsion blender) and blend until smooth. If using a blender, add the toasted spices, roasted veggie and 3 cups water and blend until smooth then transfer to a large pot or dutch oven. Add salt and pepper to taste. Turn heat down to  simmer and let cook for an addition 10 minutes. 

When ready to serve, ladle soup into bowl and drizzle a spoonful of raw honey into soup. Garnish with fresh chopped kale, chives, cabbage or whatever you want. (or nothing is good too)

Holy crap, it’s Easter…. Well Happy Easter to you (if you celebrate it). And if no, happy beautiful spring day. It’s going to be so nice and warm and sunny today. I am really excited… spring is finally here!

This past week was epic for th house. The roof was ripped off and now the new addition is up! It all started on Monday when the mr got a phone call asking if he could go let the guys into the house(they were a day early). and three days later they were done, the walls and the roof were up!(not the roofing, we are doing that next week) It was like magic ad I couldn’t be happier. The upstairs is now huge and bright. Our new bedroom space is bigger then our entire living space now. I am all like Woo hoo!

When the guys were finished, the work started for us. We had to finish knocking all the walls down and ripping up all the shit floors. It’s been a hard on the body kinda week of work and every single muscle in my body is aching. (the mrs too but he doesn’t complain. He is a champ) 5 years ago I was able to rip apart a house and be like ” what what” the next day. Now I am like What what no.. creak creak” I am officially an old lady and now I need a break!

WE are taking a semi break today( although there might be a little framing and light cleaning might be in store) because it’s Sunday and it’s Easter. The family is getting together for food, fun and a egg hunt, which I am really excited about., and lots of sitting outside absorbing the warm sunshine and fresh clean springtime air. It’s going to be great. I am even planning on bringing a book and passing out on the back porch at some point.

What about you, any fantastic Easter/Sunday plans? Are you going to spend the day hunting down specially hidden Easter eggs, eating lots of chocolate eggs (and carrots I hope) and hanging with loved one?. I sure hope so. And don’t forget to get outside. We could all use the fresh air.

Some stuff to read if you get sick of all the jelly beans.

-Ever wonder how those magazines get those amazing photos of food? Well this article explains it all. Ceci N’Est Pas Ice Cream (Actually It’s Lard And Food Coloring)

-I love spring and all the pretty bloom that comes with it. 

-I went and got avocados right after I saw this (haven’t tried it yet though) HOW TO MAKE AN AVOCADO ROSE

-I was thinking about making the pup a new bed. I really like this design. (and fabric)

-Did you know that Ikea sold candy? I had no clue but here is a guide for the good and the bad. Top 10 IKEA Pick & Mix Candies You Need to Try

-One mans weed is another mans salad. How to Cook with Weeds

– I sometime think I can see a few more colors then is normal….A New Study Helps Explain Why Some People Can See So Many Colors

–These plates would make me so happy.. and not just for Easter. And these molds even though I don’t need them

–Trend Alert: 8 Techno Toilets cause we all need a gadgety toilet seat(no, not really)

– Is this for real? Unicorn Kisses Seltzer Water... As a seltzer water junky, I really freaking hope so.

And a couple photos.

For the longest time now, I have been drinking a little turmeric with a little lemon first thing in the morning. It started as a medicinal drink, but quickly became a tasty habit. I have some stupid weird circulation condition called raynaud’s where changes in temp turn my fingers and toes into icicles. And for me, the worst time of the year for this condition is the spring (but spring is still my favorite). All the up and down of temperature and the wet cold damp weather is my trigger, not to forget to mention that those temp swings can get a girl sick. (I can’t get sick!!)

So way back when I started to drink for my health and the feeling in my fingers. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon , all super warming spices that help greatly with blood circulation, not to mention a whole bunch of other good things. (I could tell you and go on and on, but you can just look it up yourself) Ever since I started drinking and eating lots of these spices, my raynauds has gotten soooo sooo soooo much better. I still get cold finger and toes, but no where as severe and the way less often.

Now a few weeks ago the mr started making himself an afternoon turmeric tea. He read something on the internet about how it’s the best anti-inflammatory and good for achy joints. (Sure dude, listen to the internet and not me) Being a big guy doing construction and such, he gets really achy joints and there is only so much arnica and frozen peas a guy can do. So now he drinks this and I think he is starting to notice a difference. (less time with the frozen peas) And since he is making himself tea every afternoon, I started to make a spicy tea for myself in the afternoons too. I figured that a little extra goodness to ward off the chills and any larking illness is only a plus. It’s our after lunch treat that tastes good, is warm and soothing and is doing the body all sorts of good.

Spicy turmeric tea. You will get addicted and feel like awesomeness.

The stuff. Ground turmeric, ground ginger, saigon cinnamon and hot water. Additional yums with a little lemon and some honey if you like it sweet or have a scratchy throat.

Spices into a drinking vessel (I like a big jar)

And in goes the hot water. Give it a good stir and a squeeze of lemon (and sweeten if your gonna)

And watch it swirl. A drink that keeps this girl happy and healthy.

Something great to look forward.

-C

• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground saigon cinnamon (can use regular, but it’s not as spicy sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2- 2 cups hot water (not quite boiling)
• honey to taste (I only use if my throat is sore)
• lemon juice (optional)

Note… My measurements are just guidelines. You might like a little less turmeric or more ginger so make this drink any way that tastes best for you.

Grab yourself a big mug or jar, add in the spices and hot water, honey if you want it and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Stir with a spoon and drink. Keep spoon handy to give it a good stir every now and then

For the longest time now, I have been drinking a little turmeric with a little lemon first thing in the morning. It started as a medicinal drink, but quickly became a tasty habit. I have some stupid weird circulation condition called raynaud’s where changes in temp turn my fingers and toes into icicles. And for me, the worst time of the year for this condition is the spring (but spring is still my favorite). All the up and down of temperature and the wet cold damp weather is my trigger, not to forget to mention that those temp swings can get a girl sick. (I can’t get sick!!)

So way back when I started to drink for my health and the feeling in my fingers. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon , all super warming spices that help greatly with blood circulation, not to mention a whole bunch of other good things. (I could tell you and go on and on, but you can just look it up yourself) Ever since I started drinking and eating lots of these spices, my raynauds has gotten soooo sooo soooo much better. I still get cold finger and toes, but no where as severe and the way less often.

Now a few weeks ago the mr started making himself an afternoon turmeric tea. He read something on the internet about how it’s the best anti-inflammatory and good for achy joints. (Sure dude, listen to the internet and not me) Being a big guy doing construction and such, he gets really achy joints and there is only so much arnica and frozen peas a guy can do. So now he drinks this and I think he is starting to notice a difference. (less time with the frozen peas) And since he is making himself tea every afternoon, I started to make a spicy tea for myself in the afternoons too. I figured that a little extra goodness to ward off the chills and any larking illness is only a plus. It’s our after lunch treat that tastes good, is warm and soothing and is doing the body all sorts of good.

Spicy turmeric tea. You will get addicted and feel like awesomeness.

The stuff. Ground turmeric, ground ginger, saigon cinnamon and hot water. Additional yums with a little lemon and some honey if you like it sweet or have a scratchy throat.

Spices into a drinking vessel (I like a big jar)

And in goes the hot water. Give it a good stir and a squeeze of lemon (and sweeten if your gonna)

And watch it swirl. A drink that keeps this girl happy and healthy.

Something great to look forward.

-C

• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground saigon cinnamon (can use regular, but it’s not as spicy sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2- 2 cups hot water (not quite boiling)
• honey to taste (I only use if my throat is sore)
• lemon juice (optional)

Note… My measurements are just guidelines. You might like a little less turmeric or more ginger so make this drink any way that tastes best for you.

Grab yourself a big mug or jar, add in the spices and hot water, honey if you want it and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Stir with a spoon and drink. Keep spoon handy to give it a good stir every now and then

For the longest time now, I have been drinking a little turmeric with a little lemon first thing in the morning. It started as a medicinal drink, but quickly became a tasty habit. I have some stupid weird circulation condition called raynaud’s where changes in temp turn my fingers and toes into icicles. And for me, the worst time of the year for this condition is the spring (but spring is still my favorite). All the up and down of temperature and the wet cold damp weather is my trigger, not to forget to mention that those temp swings can get a girl sick. (I can’t get sick!!)

So way back when I started to drink for my health and the feeling in my fingers. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon , all super warming spices that help greatly with blood circulation, not to mention a whole bunch of other good things. (I could tell you and go on and on, but you can just look it up yourself) Ever since I started drinking and eating lots of these spices, my raynauds has gotten soooo sooo soooo much better. I still get cold finger and toes, but no where as severe and the way less often.

Now a few weeks ago the mr started making himself an afternoon turmeric tea. He read something on the internet about how it’s the best anti-inflammatory and good for achy joints. (Sure dude, listen to the internet and not me) Being a big guy doing construction and such, he gets really achy joints and there is only so much arnica and frozen peas a guy can do. So now he drinks this and I think he is starting to notice a difference. (less time with the frozen peas) And since he is making himself tea every afternoon, I started to make a spicy tea for myself in the afternoons too. I figured that a little extra goodness to ward off the chills and any larking illness is only a plus. It’s our after lunch treat that tastes good, is warm and soothing and is doing the body all sorts of good.

Spicy turmeric tea. You will get addicted and feel like awesomeness.

The stuff. Ground turmeric, ground ginger, saigon cinnamon and hot water. Additional yums with a little lemon and some honey if you like it sweet or have a scratchy throat.

Spices into a drinking vessel (I like a big jar)

And in goes the hot water. Give it a good stir and a squeeze of lemon (and sweeten if your gonna)

And watch it swirl. A drink that keeps this girl happy and healthy.

Something great to look forward.

-C

• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground saigon cinnamon (can use regular, but it’s not as spicy sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2- 2 cups hot water (not quite boiling)
• honey to taste (I only use if my throat is sore)
• lemon juice (optional)

Note… My measurements are just guidelines. You might like a little less turmeric or more ginger so make this drink any way that tastes best for you.

Grab yourself a big mug or jar, add in the spices and hot water, honey if you want it and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Stir with a spoon and drink. Keep spoon handy to give it a good stir every now and then

Because I love beets, I love celeriac and I love to pickle things…. And I love hearts. And Valentines Day is just around the corner so I though it appropriate to share these little darlings with you because even if you are not a fan of pickled beets or celeriac, you have to admit that these are just the cutest pickles you have ever seen. I have made a batch, sitting in the fridge, awaiting some sweet little dinner date that me and the mister will have come Valentines day. Or not, we might just eat them all before hand… because everyday is like Valentines day for us! (blah, barf, but awe, we are so cute!)

This is my basic pickling recipe….I figured you will want to pickle everything and anything once you realize (if you haven’t already) how amazing pickled everything is! And how easy it is to do it yourself.

My Pickling method……

1. Choose the jar that the pickles will live in
2. Prepare and pack the stuff  that is going to be pickled into the jar… leave about and inch of head space
3. Fill the jar to the top with a half water and half vinegar solution (I usually use apple cider vinegar because I think it adds a bit of sweetness.. I don’t like to pickle with sugar)
4. If going for a crispy pickle (like green beans or crunchy carrots)…. strain liquid into a pot with a teaspoon of salt per cup of liquid and any spices* that you want to use and bring to a boil  Add back to jar
5. If going for a more tender pickle (like beets or celeriac), dump the liquid and the veggies into a pot with a teaspoon of salt per cup of liquid and any spices* you want to use. Bring to a boil for a few minutes, then remove and replace back into jar.
6. Place lid and stick in fridge for at least a day….(I alway cheat and end up taking a bite within the first few hours) The flavor only gets better after being in the fridge for a couple of days.

*You can spice your pickles anyway you see fit…. I like to use peppercorns, garlic, mustard seeds, celery seeds red pepper flakes. Or for a little sweeter and more fragrant pickle, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods or star anise…the possibilities are endless.

Pickles are usually good for about a month, but I have never been able to keep them that long!

A little about these specific pickles……

I used one medium celeriac root, and 2 small beets. Sliced about a 1/4 inch thick and then used a cookie cutter to make the hearts.  The chosen vinegar was apple cider, and yeah ,you must pickle both the inner and outer hearts….don’t waste the outer heart! And the spices I used were black mustard seed and peppercorns. 

And they be amazing!!!!

Have a Fantastic Weekend!! Hopefully full of  warm weather, fluffy clouds, and lots of pickles!

-C

What a way to start the day, with a mouth full of c words…….Caraway, cauliflower, chick peas and cabbage…What did you think I meant?

This week has been nippy, no, its been chilly…..nah, it’s been freaking freezing! Yeah, freezing cold. When I woke up this morning to walk the pup, it was 5 degrees. So needless to say, when it gets this cold, I like to keep inside. Tying not to be a complete lazy bones, I went to town on my spices… refilling jars with all the little baggies scattering the kitchen, screwing on lids, and wiping down the shelves. Not a bad accomplishment for a day. While cleaning I came upon a little bag or caraway seeds,  Not enough to warrant a jar on the wall, but defiantly enough for one dish.  

When I think of the bright, somewhat sweet and peppery caraway, I think cabbage.(anything cabbage and I am sold) A big pan cabbage, added cauliflower for the mister,(his favorite) creamy chick peas because we need  protein and they be tasty, and of course mustard, because everything tastes better with mustard.(I’ll let you in on a little secret.I eat a lot of mustard, I am kind of obsessed. Mustards of all kind; grainy, homemade, dijon…but usually just plan old yellow. And I eat it on everything.. but my go to is French’s yellow mustard and carrots…don’t judge) A warm, bright and filling dish, perfect for a freezing cold evening stuck inside. You can eat it as main dish or add a pile of quinoa or wild rice, or even a big plate of greens. What ever say you eat it, you and your stomach will be happy.(If your worries about cabbage bloat..don’t be. Cooking cabbage helps breaks down the enzymes that create gas, plus caraway has anti bloating properties…WIN!) 

Cabbage, cauliflower,(fresh of frozen….I used frozen in this recipe) pre-cooked or canned chick peas, caraway seeds, yellow mustard, and salt..(I added pepper too)

Chop the cabbage and toss into a lightly oiled pan with the rest of the stuff. Heat pan with everything but water  for a couple of minutes.. to warm the caraway and give everything a cooking head start, then add the water. Stick a lid on it and let simmer. After about 15 minutes, give it a stir or two and do a taste test. At this point, it’s up to you…how cooked you want the veggies? I kept mine cooking for another 10 minutes. I also added another 1/2 cup of water. Not enough water and the pan will burn, a little extra water is good, it creates a yummy broth.

When you are happy with the flavor and doneness, eat it. I made myself a  bowl with a heap of pickled beets(holy yes!). I am sorry if you don’t have any pickled beets, but the dish is still amazing without them.  Fresh ground pepper really does the trick too!

So there you go, make it tonight, it will make you warm,smart and happy

-C

serves 2-3

• 1/2 small head of green cabbage(about 2 cups chopped)
• 2 cups cauliflower(fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cooked chick peas
• 1 1/2 -2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon caraway seed
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• salt and pepper to taste

Lightly oil a medium sized skillet and add all ingredients except water. Heat for a few minutes to warm up veggie and caraway seeds then add a 1 1/2 cups of water. Keep on medium heat with a lid and stir on occasion If water evaporates completely out, add another 1/2 cup.  Dish is done when veggies are tender.. about 20 minutes….but whenever tastes best to you!

My morning walks as of lately have had me doing a bit of raspberry, cherry tomato, and husk cherry picking.  Can it gt any better then that? (I sometimes pick flowers too). And yesterday I got my first pie pumpkin of the season. It is so cute and pumpkiny that I kind of want to keep it sitting on my counter for a while, but no.. My plan is to roast that shit for dinner tonight and eat it all to my face. There will be plenty of pumpkins to decorate with soon. This one is meant for my belly.

But before pumpkin, the mr and I ARE GOING to figure out the paint situation. I have never in my life had such a hard time picking colors for any apartment or house we have painted (and we have painted a lot) We nailed the wall color(on the second try) and both love it. I spent a good part of the week repainting the entire upstairs, but now we need to figure out the trim. I picked out a lovely grey that I looked fantastic for about a minute, but now I kind of hate it. I blame it on all the light and angles of the space. No two walls look the same color so I might just have to go with white trim and call it a day. Either way we go, I need to get the paint at least picked out today, its driving me fucking crazy.

I really should stop bitching, we have had such a productive week. We ended up picking up a new set of cast iron radiators, which I will tell you was no easy feat (the first or second time we did it, each of those things weight like a 800 lbs a piece) The old ones we got were not big enough to heat the space efficiently but the new ones, they are perfect and pretty and work. Score on that one. (thanks Mark the plumber) And while I was painting away upstairs, the mr was downstairs doing all sorts of stuff like moving all the tools and trash out, figuring out the radiant flooring for the first floor and sanding and painting the ceilings. The house looks so good that I am almost tempted to just move on in now, but then I think back to all the places we have lived during construction and the temptation goes away. Far far away. I can wait, at least for a bathroom with a sink that is not a hose and bucket.

Yup, another busy crray cray week. After we get paint, I think I am going to crash for a while, let my body and brain have a little time to shut off. We really should try to go apple picking or something, but honestly, I think we are both just really tired and could use a bit of time not doing anything. I say this but I know the mr will keep on working until his arms fall off, me, I will just fall asleep on the floor.

One thing I really need to do at some point today is to bust out all of my cozy sweaters. I am so very excited because sweaters are my jam and I have me aplenty of them. My wardrobe triples once the sweaters come out and I don’t look like such a bum wearing all my big baggy paint covered t shirts. A sweater classes me up bit.

Yes, I can be classy (kinda)

Internet findings from the week.

-What a bad ass lady. Urban Beekeeper Delivers Pollinators by Bike to Community Gardens Across Chicago

–A Dictionary Is Telling Everyone to Calm Down About Using ‘Literally’ Wrong

-So jealous. I would have loved to have taken a coffee class in college. STEM To Steam: How Coffee Is Perking Up Engineering Education

-Thinking we might go with black doors. (maybe, what do you think?)

-Always thought these windows were a bit strange.The Bizarre Story Behind This Common Home Amenity In Vermont

-I am serial lane switcher. To Pick the Fastest Line, Follow People With the Most Items

–The Power Vegetables Pantry. The 12 ingredients that will supercharge your vegetable cooking.

-This dude spent a lot of time and energy figuring out how to best drink a coke. (coca-cola, not coke like the drug) The 24-Year-Old Coca-Cola Virgin

-This place has got to be amazing. WHERE DOES LOST AIRLINE LUGGAGE GO? TO AMERICA’S GREATEST THRIFT STORE.

-I have a mini dance party to this song every day. Also love it cause it reminds me of Alana and Abby from Broad City (when is season 4 coming???? I NEED it)

Now for a few pictures

Last Sunday of August. Phew, we blew through this month fast.

The past week has been one of many accomplishments. Things at the house are moving along with vigor. You can tell a real difference when you walk into the house because the entire first floor is covered in a thick coating of white dust that came from all the sanding upstairs. But hey, now those walls are all primed and ready for paint!

Highlight of the week. I was at the grocery store and there was local, freshly picked, paula red apple totes for sale. It’s officially apple time. I was so happy I bought like 10 pound and eaten half of them. Does this mean I can unpack all my sweaters and flannel sheets? I don’t know about you, but I am more then ready for some cool fall weather and just a change in season. This summer was hard (emotionally ans physically) and I am over it. Bring on the pretty leaves and warm apple cider, just don’t get to cold to fast before we get any heating installed in the house.

Speaking of heating. I think for today the mr is prepping the new boiler and on demand hot water heater at the house.( This guy, man he is like a superhero, he can do it all) l Me, I think I will be spending a good chunk of time just cleaning up dust. And I will make lunch and bring us coffee. I’ll be good at that.

Internet stuff for internet browsing if you want to browse the internet.

-To all those super duper , always obnoxiously happy people. You’re Not Supposed to Be Happy All the Time

–Gorgeous Architectural Watercolors

–Why Do We Love Some Animals But Eat Others?. Think about it.

-We(or me) are picking paint for the house!!!! Going with all white walls but which white(there are thousands!) No-Fail White Paint Colors Edwards Droplet and Seed Pearl are nice.(but weird ass names) What do you think?

–10 INSPIRING CHILDREN’S PLAYSPACES.  Am I told old to play on these?

-Elmore Mt. Bread! Back in the early days, the mr and I used to save our pennies to buy fresh baguettes from them. Bread Grains: The Last Frontier In The Locavore Movement

-I am going to live forever! Friendships Might Not Help You Live Longer, But Family Does

–Tiny animals with tiny casts.

-I love this little bungalow

-And because we all love her of some version of her (don’t deny it) Britney Spears has been a pop icon for 20 years. To understand her, you need to understand her hair.

And a few pictures…I kept the camera away most of the week, didn’t want to get it full of dust.

Is it really Sunday already? This week has flown by, probably because it was to freaking hot that my brain kinda melted.  At least the heat is gone now and I can finally, maybe, function like a human being again.

Even with all the heat, lots of stuff has got done over at the house. Plumbing, walls fixed, tile samples bought. We even have narrowed down the kitchen design and are going to start doing the kitchen stuff soon. Everyday we get a little bit closer…. Now for the outside of the house, well not as great. Neither of us have dragged the mower out it a while and now there 3 ft tall thistle everywhere. Barefoot in the yard is not a good idea.And even though we worked worked worked all week, we did made a little time to finally pick our strawberries from our farm share. Now we eat nothing but zucchini and strawberries. Good stuff.

Other then that, not much else new. Not going to lie and say I haven’t been thinking about all the crazy shit that has gone on this past week in the country. Sad, alarming, frustrating. It’s a lot of heavy and it sucks. I am doing my best to send all good and loving energy out to the world. Kindness goes a log way.

As for today. hopefully the mr and I will be smart enough to chill a bit today, get in a little r&r, maybe bake some bread and go for a little bike ride before hitting it hard again tomorrow. (we will probably work at least some today too..the mr just won’t stop)

Some things to brows via the internet .

–2016 Will Be One Second Longer Than Expected. Well at least we get a bit more tine eh?

-Duh. Getting Kids to Like Vegetables Could Be As Simple As the Right Cartoon

-Do you feel a lot? You might be a empath?

-I could totally win this.. maybe next year. Move Over, Hot Dogs! There’s a Kale-Eating Competition Happening This Weekend.

–Holy shit, so crazy cool.

–  Everything is connected to everything. Your Senses Are Talking Behind Your Back

-Ink Paintings of Ghostly Felines and Chickens

-Super cute and happy house.

-Oh shit, just one more thing that sucks about the hot hot heat. There might be a huge avocado shortage. Hoard as many as you can!

–Learning From Healthy Bears (You Mean We Should Hibernate?).. I am in.

And some pictures from the weeks shenanigans of rivers farms,  and family crazy.

Holy crap, it’s Easter…. Well Happy Easter to you (if you celebrate it). And if no, happy beautiful spring day. It’s going to be so nice and warm and sunny today. I am really excited… spring is finally here!

This past week was epic for th house. The roof was ripped off and now the new addition is up! It all started on Monday when the mr got a phone call asking if he could go let the guys into the house(they were a day early). and three days later they were done, the walls and the roof were up!(not the roofing, we are doing that next week) It was like magic ad I couldn’t be happier. The upstairs is now huge and bright. Our new bedroom space is bigger then our entire living space now. I am all like Woo hoo!

When the guys were finished, the work started for us. We had to finish knocking all the walls down and ripping up all the shit floors. It’s been a hard on the body kinda week of work and every single muscle in my body is aching. (the mrs too but he doesn’t complain. He is a champ) 5 years ago I was able to rip apart a house and be like ” what what” the next day. Now I am like What what no.. creak creak” I am officially an old lady and now I need a break!

WE are taking a semi break today( although there might be a little framing and light cleaning might be in store) because it’s Sunday and it’s Easter. The family is getting together for food, fun and a egg hunt, which I am really excited about., and lots of sitting outside absorbing the warm sunshine and fresh clean springtime air. It’s going to be great. I am even planning on bringing a book and passing out on the back porch at some point.

What about you, any fantastic Easter/Sunday plans? Are you going to spend the day hunting down specially hidden Easter eggs, eating lots of chocolate eggs (and carrots I hope) and hanging with loved one?. I sure hope so. And don’t forget to get outside. We could all use the fresh air.

Some stuff to read if you get sick of all the jelly beans.

-Ever wonder how those magazines get those amazing photos of food? Well this article explains it all. Ceci N’Est Pas Ice Cream (Actually It’s Lard And Food Coloring)

-I love spring and all the pretty bloom that comes with it. 

-I went and got avocados right after I saw this (haven’t tried it yet though) HOW TO MAKE AN AVOCADO ROSE

-I was thinking about making the pup a new bed. I really like this design. (and fabric)

-Did you know that Ikea sold candy? I had no clue but here is a guide for the good and the bad. Top 10 IKEA Pick & Mix Candies You Need to Try

-One mans weed is another mans salad. How to Cook with Weeds

– I sometime think I can see a few more colors then is normal….A New Study Helps Explain Why Some People Can See So Many Colors

–These plates would make me so happy.. and not just for Easter. And these molds even though I don’t need them

–Trend Alert: 8 Techno Toilets cause we all need a gadgety toilet seat(no, not really)

– Is this for real? Unicorn Kisses Seltzer Water... As a seltzer water junky, I really freaking hope so.

And a couple photos.

Tuesday tater tot time!

Sometimes you just want a tater tot. So what are you to do about it? Well I fought off the feeling for far too long (why? I do not know) and finally gave in got my shit together, got some potatoes, and made the tots. And then I was happy.

What was taking me so long?  Tater tots are freaking good.

These are nothing like those tots that were served in the lunch room cafeteria that we all know and loved. No these are sooooo much better, and probably (definitely ) way way healthier too cause they are baked, not fried. And to make’em even better, after making the tater tot tower you’re ready to eat, you can eat them up with whatever dippy type thing you can think of. Sure you could go with straight up ketchup (me, not a fan) or you could go nuts and make a big bowl of guacamole, grab the mustard and the hot sauce, and do that. Tater tots go so well with all sorts of stuff. (I was even thinking peanut butter but stopped myself for the time being)

. Next time I make them, I am so going to make a tater tot castle!

Tots away!

The stuff. Potatoes (duh), an onion, garlic powder, olive oil, and salt and pepper.

First thing to do is boil the potatoes…just a bit. Cut each potato into 4 wedges and stick into a big pot full of cold water, salted water. Stick pot on the stove ans bring to a boil, then turn heat down a little and continue to cook the potatoes until they are just barely for tender. Strain from the water and set aside to cool.

Once the potatoes have cooled off enough where you can handle them, grab a grate and grate them all up, along with the onion. ME, trying to use the least amount of dishes possible, I just grated it all onto the baking sheet that I was using to bake the tots off…. Worked like a charm. And once your taters and onion are grated, sprinkle in the garlic powder, a good amount of salt ans pepper ans drizzle it all with a little bit of olive oil. Mix it all around (I used my hands but a fork would work) and if you are using the baking sheet , just push the mound to one side.

And start forming the taters into tots…. Just grab a handful and squeeze it together into a tot shape.

Note. Have a dish towel close by to wipe your hands when they get to starchy… the tots stick together better when made with dry hands.

Tots ready for the oven. Bakes for 30-35 minutes at 400.. Flip after about 20 minutes.

Golden brown, all crispy an tot like. Ready for your eating pleasure.

Plate them up, serve with your favorite condiments (try guacamole , mustard and hot sauce) and eat them. Eat them all.

-C

serves 3

• 2 big russet potatoes
• 1 sweet yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon or so garlic powder
• olive oil
• salt and pepper

Slice the potatoes lengthwise into quarters and place into a pot of cold, salted water, making sure the potatoes are completely submerged.  Bring the potatoes to a boil then turn heat to medium and keep boiling until the potatoes are just barely fork tender., like 8-10 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool.

Preheat oven to 400

Once cooled, grate the potato, along with the onion into a bowl or onto a baking sheet. Sprinkle with the garlic powder, add a good amount of salt ans pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Toss around until its evenly coated then start forming the mixture into tots. Place the tots on a baking sheet and once all the tots are formed ans ready to go, stick into the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, remove, flip them over, then continue to bake for another 10-15 until they are all nice and golden brown.

Remove from oven, grab your favorite condiments and eat right away.