tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44613719047313491852024-03-05T05:16:05.605-08:00Rustic Benchesrustic benches artisan cook bake dogs pets tables consoles coffee tables end tablesRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-52780429001892453692013-01-06T07:13:00.001-08:002013-01-06T08:26:06.286-08:00A Damper on the FireplaceEveryone makes mistakes, but have you ever made one over and over again for years? Is it considered a mistake, if you don't know it was a mistake? Is it called an epiphany or a revelation when you finally clue in? <br />
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On a beautiful, sunny, crisp winter morning over the past holidays, I took a walk with Sonney down the lane. I had a couple of goals besides the exercise; one was delivering some cat toys to my neighbour who is a LAWS volunteer, and the other was to return a book on 'freezing vegetables' that I had borrowed from another neighbour. When she opened the door, she was in the middle of putting a sweater on because she said "it was so hot in here", we had a nice neighbourly conversation, and then I left and continued with my walk. <br />
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A few days went by, and I realized that something about that day was itching me in the back of my brain, but I couldn't put a finger on it, until I was cleaning my fireplace windows. This is a chore I cannot stand. I clean them and for about an hour they are clean, then right back to black. Rarely do I get to enjoy the view of my fire. What was bugging me was that my neighbours glass was perfectly clear. While I was there, I had been mesmerized by it. No wait, that doesn't explain it well enough...I was in a trance, gazing at the wisps of fire lick at the pristine windows in HD, I can barely remember what we were talking about. <br />
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Now I had a mission, search for better ways to clean my windows - I mean, if she has found a solution, then surely I could. And if I couldn't, then I was going to get out of my pyjamas, and trudge right on over there. I searched and searched, and read posts and comments, but they were all the same various methods I had already been using. Wet ashes. Razor blade. Glass products. Green wood vs. seasoned wood. Hardwood vs. Softwoods. No direct solution. But, I did register a theme in a number of threads. I can build a fire, I can maintain a fire, but never had the concept of an 'efficient' fire crossed my mind. A fire was a fire, right? Apparently not. <br />
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Now, don't be afraid, I have been cleaning and maintaining my fireplace and chimney at the beginning and end of every season, so there hasn't been any built up danger over the years. However, my new found knowledge had me revisiting how I was using the damper. Yes, this long into a story, and I'm finally using a word from the title! Are you still with me? The only thing I used the damper for was to slow burn, prolonging the wood - in other words, practically closed all the time. What does this do? Make black smoke in the cinder box and then to the windows and walls. What are you supposed to do for an efficient fire, you ask? Well, you probably aren't asking because you know already and didn't tell ME!!! The damper should be fully open while making a small, hot fire, for about 20-30 minutes, and then closed to about half. This is a guesstimate depending on how each person's firebox processes the burn, but it certainly isn't supposed to be practically closed unless you want a slow burn, overnight, for instance. The light bulb went on in my itchy brain. I grabbed the razor blade and cleaned the windows and started my first efficient fire. I'm three days in now, and I haven't had to clean the glass, and the view is amazing.<br />
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Learning from my mistakes, one day at a time.<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches Studio<br />
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<br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8R3PgK3WR4EI6DCX3Q4DxP5H66_fN9BPGJYco3WFeAq2Zsri7lm0hUb2rbCGm5E9NNvmDBrWAZ7MltPcZj5vNAau3RhMu4SVWCoIAdf8gJlLLj_UGxCXt89fDXEjNHt-L4renatJSTBof/s640/blogger-image-1416701972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8R3PgK3WR4EI6DCX3Q4DxP5H66_fN9BPGJYco3WFeAq2Zsri7lm0hUb2rbCGm5E9NNvmDBrWAZ7MltPcZj5vNAau3RhMu4SVWCoIAdf8gJlLLj_UGxCXt89fDXEjNHt-L4renatJSTBof/s640/blogger-image-1416701972.jpg" /></a></div>Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-28779922788597590982012-09-04T09:32:00.000-07:002012-09-04T09:33:33.030-07:00Where did it GO?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRtOUvvvmRdVdh-pBparGYQCEBrH3MXJfYqSpzClUnNNLvUGeaKF89xMk_7Zp7uETY18kAFPCZeBYnlD1-2xbj96PuLToIZgaLazy0PbS9WvHrYVSkIg3q1a0QuTG5IlN7oF6Ig98k1-3/s1600/faisalcat.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRtOUvvvmRdVdh-pBparGYQCEBrH3MXJfYqSpzClUnNNLvUGeaKF89xMk_7Zp7uETY18kAFPCZeBYnlD1-2xbj96PuLToIZgaLazy0PbS9WvHrYVSkIg3q1a0QuTG5IlN7oF6Ig98k1-3/s200/faisalcat.gif" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMaMmbwgOyKK28ZrgeeZVg5UDi27TC44-pPDh7gNaKpupddlo5jVv5KpGkpDe-eBFBr737rU0iG5Ua_4fAecsVNwkgG8jPzp38KQdw1bAwBOxYtitQJitI1pOKKTVE1goG0eX1_lXF5Yj3/s1600/fdos12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMaMmbwgOyKK28ZrgeeZVg5UDi27TC44-pPDh7gNaKpupddlo5jVv5KpGkpDe-eBFBr737rU0iG5Ua_4fAecsVNwkgG8jPzp38KQdw1bAwBOxYtitQJitI1pOKKTVE1goG0eX1_lXF5Yj3/s200/fdos12.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhuGU20M8NJ9jXq_EuyMm13oLDOF1nCmowDf1tp5Si6RvgcFyNQS36BAf3GaV5ypDq5M2mxocXVe_5eiOKfHR-DWkIYoD1vbuivCq3K730siySQKdoPpTJsyDv8NV92_0-5RspkgG-Y44/s1600/oreillystf1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhuGU20M8NJ9jXq_EuyMm13oLDOF1nCmowDf1tp5Si6RvgcFyNQS36BAf3GaV5ypDq5M2mxocXVe_5eiOKfHR-DWkIYoD1vbuivCq3K730siySQKdoPpTJsyDv8NV92_0-5RspkgG-Y44/s200/oreillystf1.jpg" width="150" /></a>It was a long summer, and it was a short summer. I feel like I got alot done, and yet, I still have a long list of things to do. Fall is imminent, yes, I said it, and it's true, it is right around the corner.! The leaves are falling, the apprentice is back in school and I sense a slight change in the temperature. </div>
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My summer has been filled with : The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, Farmers Markets, Rockwood Conservation area, Presquille Provincial Park, the Kilt Run, triathalons, the Fair, Big Rideau Lake, Ottawa Parkway, Toronto, Carleton Place, Smiths Falls, Merrickville, Westport, and Scoops in Pakenham, to mention only a few of my many road trips. But, I am happiest at the studio, working on the many custom projects that weave their way into the fabric of your home and that become the anchors of your family gatherings. Two special projects for <a href="http://oreillyspubperth.com/">O'Reilly's Ale House</a> allowed for personal creativity along with input from new owners, Dan and Mary Catherine Allatt - and their kind of visible support, where they make an effort to showcase area artisans and food producers, warms my heart. And, it doesn't hurt that they serve great craft beers! </div>
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So, onward to fall, the season of organizing mudrooms, hockey (or no hockey), canning, preserving, traditional meatpies and warm and cozy fireplaces.</div>
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Insight :: <a href="http://www.rusticbenches.ca/">Rustic Benches Studio</a></div>
Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-57869080462346021382012-08-05T09:28:00.000-07:002012-08-05T09:28:40.877-07:00VOOVERRY!Yes, only a seven year old can come up with that name! Somehow it means "very blueberry" in the minds of the young. Ask any of his friends and they get it right away, ask my friends and I get a blank stare. <br />
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In an effort to be adventurous with my ice cream maker, I decided to add a little fun to my vanilla ice cream base. The idea came from the usual "cookies and cream" with Oreos, which everyone has either tried or made, I am sure. Those double deckers are delicious and I admit that I've eaten quite a few in my time, but since the birth and responsibility of creating a good food foundation for my child, sadly (for me), I buy less junk food. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ntmtPwUYJiE53T53UojfQKn-tDB8OmabxKdxoa0iiYlZZVFTxynBDVbxqAjwQyunlb2hM6KfqpgZfdIB8e_ETOsqNGhxR285AWcxplY8dIr_3SBqyA7kA9tIhXUtMpn7PeaQ4bEev1Tp/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ntmtPwUYJiE53T53UojfQKn-tDB8OmabxKdxoa0iiYlZZVFTxynBDVbxqAjwQyunlb2hM6KfqpgZfdIB8e_ETOsqNGhxR285AWcxplY8dIr_3SBqyA7kA9tIhXUtMpn7PeaQ4bEev1Tp/s200/cookies.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HomeMade Peanut Butter Cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the most part I make cookies, but his West Coast grandparents always had these around, and they are yummy, so I've caved into buying them every now and then. On this day, it became my cookie for cookies and cream and what a delightful discovery.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxqBuj1qAGGcHt_Jd97Oyo16XhPcIu_yeult7kn_2XgkKicXf6FJ-ly13BzjEyYeLHpSO5EEn-iCZu4TXCRwBoS9rHi9MJ8HEGptFWUttOsXT_i03dsvCZM-KHnH4IlhdYVq96gTULgRj/s1600/vooverry1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxqBuj1qAGGcHt_Jd97Oyo16XhPcIu_yeult7kn_2XgkKicXf6FJ-ly13BzjEyYeLHpSO5EEn-iCZu4TXCRwBoS9rHi9MJ8HEGptFWUttOsXT_i03dsvCZM-KHnH4IlhdYVq96gTULgRj/s200/vooverry1.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Secret Ingredient</td></tr>
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White Ice Cream Base (made with Local Maple Syrup instead of Vanilla)<br />
1 cup Milk<br />
2 cups Whipped Cream (35%)<br />
2 tsps. lemon<br />
1 tsp Maple Syrup (or vanilla)<br />
1 cup White Sugar<br />
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** At this point add colour, if you wish. I like to make vooverry BLUE.<br />
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Mix well, I use a Wisk.<br />
Pour into an already frozen ice cream maker, and it must have been in the freezer for more than 24 hrs to achieve the right consistency.<br />
Set to ON<br />
*In extremely humid weather, I have put the ice cream maker RIGHT IN THE FREEZER while plugged in* This made sure that the unit doesn't warm faster than it can make the icecream, works like a charm.<br />
Crush 10 cookies, into small/medium chunks. I used a ziploc. Try NOT to create too many crumbs.<br />
After 15-20 minutes, pour the chunks into the churning mixture of cream.<br />
Let churn for at least 45 more minutes (or until unit stops, and watch it doesn't OVERFLOW!)<br />
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Scoop mixture into storage containers, and freeze (or eat a bit, first!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxyB1XodnCbqZVK6L9Eo7lLEUK2Ps59Y946MHUCivtoI_OAVTIiNuE7RYQZqLe4cTNle62MpM-zscagN3eDoU1fC44VgJTB2C6Q9uFsGrOXwuRoxxxYpNOOpEkPmJHjg2t0IjNmbWJloF/s1600/vooverry3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxyB1XodnCbqZVK6L9Eo7lLEUK2Ps59Y946MHUCivtoI_OAVTIiNuE7RYQZqLe4cTNle62MpM-zscagN3eDoU1fC44VgJTB2C6Q9uFsGrOXwuRoxxxYpNOOpEkPmJHjg2t0IjNmbWJloF/s200/vooverry3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Banana Walnut Muffins</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1PM01xxaHMqVeimu9NfAc8Y0Dbl30zQBHbe_uL6_QfH7_6jj1CG71XmkhulLAXZs6krODBTRzE0TKZgfOiHH2ajvBI0TU3i7LzijNskgoaJxIJ_rjmEB0_FFnKkOcxndreDN2UluqcNF/s1600/vooverry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1PM01xxaHMqVeimu9NfAc8Y0Dbl30zQBHbe_uL6_QfH7_6jj1CG71XmkhulLAXZs6krODBTRzE0TKZgfOiHH2ajvBI0TU3i7LzijNskgoaJxIJ_rjmEB0_FFnKkOcxndreDN2UluqcNF/s200/vooverry.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Voila! VooVerry!<br />
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Insight :: <a href="http://www.rusticbenches.ca/">Rustic Benches</a> StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-31849433081376718672012-07-22T07:38:00.000-07:002012-07-22T07:41:47.939-07:00A Day with Donkeys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj138HnrZ4f6EXfNAenE4kNRC4ua-q3r5JxwjyUypw9TehUIGcCfBhWorcx-nZkIm5tmkLTlPnwtIefrjHeRvPeMWW4LqPeXS6erWc00J8Q4pADTFNRytYeRKSle7crsczOVGF7jg-GwHWr/s1600/donkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj138HnrZ4f6EXfNAenE4kNRC4ua-q3r5JxwjyUypw9TehUIGcCfBhWorcx-nZkIm5tmkLTlPnwtIefrjHeRvPeMWW4LqPeXS6erWc00J8Q4pADTFNRytYeRKSle7crsczOVGF7jg-GwHWr/s200/donkey.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
For over a year, I had been lurking. Yes, it sounds like a bad word, but it's not if you genuinely like something. See, I like the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Donkey-Sanctuary-of-Canada/120101861347541">Donkey Sanctuary of Canada on Facebook</a>, and I haven't been able to stop liking them since I started following them. The pictures they post of these rescued animals is heart-stopping for me...or work-stopping, because I stop working to look. They seem so gentle, and in the pictures, each ones character shines through. For a year, I dreamed of making the trek to the Sanctuary to see for myself. Now, this isn't a light plan to make, it's a fair distance, there's the apprentice and his schooling, the studio mutt, and not least of all, squeezing it in between actual work.! No problemo, there was lots of time, <span style="background-color: white;">I had a year to plan, right?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5lvqqccgdl9ByXLktdocpXSVk13_tUR36rRp3UXPy7-N6hixEQQ7u0VIh9orLG_CUr95YEZojp8z-Y7GjRhRXJCuhULs-UhTHkY_1rRzROtiMm3fGYBMwUYg9vE19iaidOPccbUCVYUQ/s1600/donkey1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5lvqqccgdl9ByXLktdocpXSVk13_tUR36rRp3UXPy7-N6hixEQQ7u0VIh9orLG_CUr95YEZojp8z-Y7GjRhRXJCuhULs-UhTHkY_1rRzROtiMm3fGYBMwUYg9vE19iaidOPccbUCVYUQ/s200/donkey1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Then suddenly, it was a year later. So, it ended up being more of a 'fly by the seat of my pants' kinda trip. I yanked the boy out of school for a day, grabbed the leash, drove towards Guelph, ON., booked a campsite in Rockwood, and settled in for the night. The next morning we showed up for "Donkey Day #19" .. a once a year event at the <a href="http://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca/">Donkey Sanctuary of Canada,</a> where they open their doors to visitors, raising funds to run the facility. We were stunned at the amount of people we saw (2420 visitors!) - the beautiful day co-operating with a perfect sky! People from all over, flocking to the same destination with presumably the same addictive interest as me. We were welcomed by a wonderful crew, who fawned over Sonney like he was an honorary Donkey. Sonney adored the attention.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupKWz6jpKHPGMcSCD-_fhGNBdaNBlVWiY6-Ea5Ei5iMb2izMVEHP-16CQ9bXN5VJ0cYJntv1eepkdxRYyrlZNerYG0LUpxkTQEPp14s36IGsVFWChbSwH4VI3vlcNu5-rehQsQjnC44_T/s1600/donkey2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupKWz6jpKHPGMcSCD-_fhGNBdaNBlVWiY6-Ea5Ei5iMb2izMVEHP-16CQ9bXN5VJ0cYJntv1eepkdxRYyrlZNerYG0LUpxkTQEPp14s36IGsVFWChbSwH4VI3vlcNu5-rehQsQjnC44_T/s200/donkey2.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwJhXORwoYf93CVD3IhS_KUZCr7TsJOgoBdR18vzO54rWT8UE22ebEPkhkXWYTXZHg79NfoY_MJtowMbslHAMUaBEdzpsiWyV6qZv96EkVdYaeG79Z02PNFApNgsjVZtvyEQ08JhAtqcG/s1600/donkeys3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwJhXORwoYf93CVD3IhS_KUZCr7TsJOgoBdR18vzO54rWT8UE22ebEPkhkXWYTXZHg79NfoY_MJtowMbslHAMUaBEdzpsiWyV6qZv96EkVdYaeG79Z02PNFApNgsjVZtvyEQ08JhAtqcG/s200/donkeys3.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodtewyuNptNFT4KWiTKCWKVqAzBlZZSvNE849wBbtIzXAXzrXlZn-IQJtSyTpObvkwm7yBQHW17YGBbL71jJkCgumpdXOxfHIG10ivJhdAXOFPbjlqWZE6_kCl4HiSj97ilR4KxaVH22V/s1600/donkeys4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodtewyuNptNFT4KWiTKCWKVqAzBlZZSvNE849wBbtIzXAXzrXlZn-IQJtSyTpObvkwm7yBQHW17YGBbL71jJkCgumpdXOxfHIG10ivJhdAXOFPbjlqWZE6_kCl4HiSj97ilR4KxaVH22V/s200/donkeys4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
And, while Sonney and I were waiting at the Donkey Paddock, a pleasant volunteer relayed to us an interesting history of Donkeys and Dogs. As it turns out, they are natural enemies. Sheep farmers used Donkeys to protect their herds from wild dogs a.k.a. coyotes and wolves, and they were known to be able to kill the predator with one fell stomp of their front legs. Sonney was a true gentleman, and did his best not to upset any donkeys. In the end, just as many kids and adults made their way over to Sonney to give him a pat, take pictures with him, and marvel at his good manners.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbViyZvCabwrfjp4L25aF8T1sOJGq9Ok_Dsbxyw-yY4TXASAV-tCwXT0xoCS2Oo1zyvJjiklYh6Pg0pQNA7R95SK27HoMROCcUgKA_BhmwCiT7-6M80dGT1BEjSeeXtPjkhBm1TIY9ncGc/s1600/dsc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbViyZvCabwrfjp4L25aF8T1sOJGq9Ok_Dsbxyw-yY4TXASAV-tCwXT0xoCS2Oo1zyvJjiklYh6Pg0pQNA7R95SK27HoMROCcUgKA_BhmwCiT7-6M80dGT1BEjSeeXtPjkhBm1TIY9ncGc/s200/dsc.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Along with the Donkeys, the events and food kept visitors busy and satisfied. An eclectic collection of food vendors from burgers and fresh cut fries, to indian cuisine - there was something for everyone, plenty of it, and everyone was biting! There was a picnic / resting area, music, kids events, a silent auction, souvenirs, and all the while, the donkeys mingled with the eager crowd.<br />
It was a fun day, and for a moment, we visitors were one kindred collection of spirits, celebrating the challenging, but rewarding rescue efforts of the Donkey Sanctuary.<br />
Watch for Donkey Day #20 on Sunday June 9th, 2013.<br />
Insight :: <a href="http://www.rusticbenches.ca/">Rustic Benches Studio</a>Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-75055417246327126202012-07-03T07:36:00.000-07:002012-07-03T07:36:08.797-07:00Even on Holidays?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGYVAAUXH9QYWSKhyp37vVWOvpMGiTjTiirFoqBFAczVBQBBaLZJA3HjWNYJs6-frdI7Pk0GO22CfGWJNqTJyFtAIXmDRLo3GVARCHV30JMMH6J0Ksa54PzKvL0dejl0mBitJ_cYjXyb7/s640/blogger-image--824662520.jpg" imageanchor="3" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGYVAAUXH9QYWSKhyp37vVWOvpMGiTjTiirFoqBFAczVBQBBaLZJA3HjWNYJs6-frdI7Pk0GO22CfGWJNqTJyFtAIXmDRLo3GVARCHV30JMMH6J0Ksa54PzKvL0dejl0mBitJ_cYjXyb7/s200/blogger-image--824662520.jpg" width="200" /></a>What's that smell? Is it baking, freshly ground coffee...perhaps the fresh clippings of garden produce?
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Nope, working with wood means always working with wood - even on holidays. Some of the long weekend plans to relax turned into harvesting wood for winter (among other things). That means pulling out the trusty chainsaw, saw horses, and cutting and stacking wood to season. Sonney felt inclined to help, which usually means either suntanning or snoring nearby. On my little patch of land, I have a small stand of elm and white ash, which are decent burning species, and luckily, whenever my neighbors (who don't have wood burning fireplaces) clear their yards, they offer up their wood piles to me. This batch I got from a neighbor who are clearing backyard space for their wandering dog. Now their yard is a large fenced in play area designed to allow freedom without the dog visiting others (let's call it 'looking for trouble') or getting bumped by a wayward tractor. And, another batch I picked up from a town resident who just took down a failing tree, which would have likely taken out their garage if not harvested. I'm now sitting on two cords of wood that would have otherwise met a less useful end.<br />
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I'm surrounded by it, in and out of my home, work with it, salvage it, recycle it, reuse it and am never far from it. I adore these useful, magnificent beings mother nature gives us. Trees.<br />
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Insight :: <a href="http://www.rusticbenches.ca/">Rustic Benches Studio</a>Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-32361602401074693422012-06-24T08:16:00.000-07:002012-06-24T18:53:19.644-07:00Sometimes, you just WANNA be TICKED OFF!There's this crazy phenomenon out there, you know the one ... ticked off birds sling-shotting themselves at green pigs. The pigs snicker when the birds miss, the birds celebrate when they connect. All in fun. But, addictive. Waaaaay back when my son was four years old (okay, he's seven now, so not that long ago!) he was mesmerized, I mean really, there is a strategy to knocking over the contraptions and hitting all the targets in as few slingshots as possible, right? It was a puzzle to solve, so I didn't mind his occasional foray into the games...but then, one game led to another, Rio, Seasons, Space...it had taken over the world in the device market. Thankfully, the games are only $1/each and were often good incentive in reminding him about certain tasks to complete FIRST! "Remember, you can save your pennies to buy it yourself or, sure you can set the table or shovel the laneway!" <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBP-0RHBE_MVCwaukuVspQRNRowdUFpuNwBqsxsI7RA0scVJ2Q-yeXysNO6QU7H6hKmU_DUaLkYR_tE9HxXY2-fi_cIBdS9jURUZredM7szN3koSOBIM4cynr41rKekajMpkZsK5t70hHx/s1600/loft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBP-0RHBE_MVCwaukuVspQRNRowdUFpuNwBqsxsI7RA0scVJ2Q-yeXysNO6QU7H6hKmU_DUaLkYR_tE9HxXY2-fi_cIBdS9jURUZredM7szN3koSOBIM4cynr41rKekajMpkZsK5t70hHx/s200/loft.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Well, as time went on, my apprentice had to have everything related to this game... t-shirts, bracelets, calendars, I even made his dream loft bed, but it was the ticked off stuffies hanging from it that he loved most! ..(thanks SPEAK!). So, what do you give a guy that probably has everything to do with the one thing he REALLY loves? <br />
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I made him a Ticked Off lunch, that's what.! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZG1QAJ0QnSyJ1US9JoJf0T5Ov48hMCIqiipQcBIgQ8QPOUkIeZ8X5uz2rOLjb1jkKVYAujR-EuCQjckqKWL9EzA5vJNAUmgyc_6-e1MRemGIunaD7UiIGkywL3JYwbdG463UaY4KYJPv/s1600/tickedoff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZG1QAJ0QnSyJ1US9JoJf0T5Ov48hMCIqiipQcBIgQ8QPOUkIeZ8X5uz2rOLjb1jkKVYAujR-EuCQjckqKWL9EzA5vJNAUmgyc_6-e1MRemGIunaD7UiIGkywL3JYwbdG463UaY4KYJPv/s200/tickedoff.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Ha Ha. He enjoyed that one, but then I got to thinking about his birthday. So I started my search, while there was still snow on the ground, for something Ticked Off. In fact, my original plan was to get him a themed Bicycle Helmet cover from <a href="http://www.tail-wags.com/" target="_blank">Tail Wags</a>. I had seen her products on the CBC show - Dragons Den - and there were many great choices. So off to peruse her site I did, again. But this time, there it was, a new item, the TICKED OFF Bird...my heart leapt. A perfect present for my boy. So I ordered, right away, thinking that it would take weeks and weeks to arrive, and I didn't want it to be late for his birthday. Well, <a href="http://karynclimans.com/" target="_blank">Miss Karen</a> is super-speedy .. and to my pleasant surprise, it arrived four days later. This was a good thing and a bad thing, all rolled into one. First off, the packaging and professionalism was awesome. Timely, neat, well protected, the workwomanship, and handy information included, I was impressed. The second part, is the bad part. I had to sit on this surprise for THREE MONTHS!! Impossible, you say? Well, I did it ... it wasn't easy, but I hid it, ignored it and tried not to peek in on it (after a test fit on his helmet, of course). <br />
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Skip ahead to the birthday, and the look on his face when he ripped it open was priceless...he wore it the entire day, even while eating the birthday cake. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjNQH4RJ7CUOvmQ_h3TLf8fqRYFe48t8y0azH4yHCvEJv6p8UC1az7qSW8Xr_PLErNhmQcNNTUzlwZJjf9s8FpAb0ldjzfZdTPdjz4t-G8OoNA2CljqJMY8BibA2ItnPe4DOQ73Wd0lrdf/s1600/tickedoff2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjNQH4RJ7CUOvmQ_h3TLf8fqRYFe48t8y0azH4yHCvEJv6p8UC1az7qSW8Xr_PLErNhmQcNNTUzlwZJjf9s8FpAb0ldjzfZdTPdjz4t-G8OoNA2CljqJMY8BibA2ItnPe4DOQ73Wd0lrdf/s200/tickedoff2.jpg" width="151" /></a>Now, it was fun to surprise him with another of his favorite characters, but the best part is that he adores wearing this helmet. He didn't have any issues wearing a helmet before, but now he thinks he's EXTRA cool, and his friends are always curious about it. He even brought it into school for his grade one show and tell. Unfortunately, that day, an older kid on his school bus tried to take it from him (that's how cool it is, I suppose) and in the struggle, broke the strap on his helmet. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicD61fWZZjDTJCNWGRR7txjraKGRGNPyetM9xWf0nYcI6MnU7TBzr4gtCPs-4iP-UXGRmuVM69aI7ExqlTrNFNK_YnRMQF3esGOookSYDyBfntjPLW_mEJBlBiLulENWMwDUeZjd3DTQad/s1600/tickedoff3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicD61fWZZjDTJCNWGRR7txjraKGRGNPyetM9xWf0nYcI6MnU7TBzr4gtCPs-4iP-UXGRmuVM69aI7ExqlTrNFNK_YnRMQF3esGOookSYDyBfntjPLW_mEJBlBiLulENWMwDUeZjd3DTQad/s200/tickedoff3.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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There were some tears over that incident, but, the strap is fixed and back in working and chirping order.<br />
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So Thanks Tail-Wags, for a super cool product. <br />
Its always good to see this kind of inventiveness from a Small Canadian Business.<br />
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Insight :: <a href="http://www.rusticbenches.ca">Rustic Benches Studio </a><br />
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<br />Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-8558464486659826162012-06-21T12:26:00.000-07:002012-06-21T12:26:31.447-07:00If it's gonna be this HOT, I'm just gonna DRINK more!<div style="text-align: left;">
No doubt this soaring heat has reminded you to up your liquid intake. It sure has me reaching for more frosty beverages than usual (you know what I mean - but, I'm gonna talk about water today!).... A few weeks ago, before this sticky heatwave, I was looking for something that would help me drink more water, something habit forming. I think I was really looking for another health reminder by researching the benefits of water, blah, blah, blah...we all know the drill...drink lots of it. But, as much as my intentions are good, I have a hard time remembering amongst the list of things I have to do each day. So, somewhere in my internet cruising, I tripped over someone's blog post (<a href="http://www.quietfish.com/notebook/?p=15283">A Peek inside the fishbowl</a>), who was attempting to "trim" herself of her jiggle. Well, I've got jiggle like any healthy person, but I'm not overly concerned about it .. I did however, enjoy her idea #1 (she says she got it from Chatelaine Magazine) of sugar-free flavoured water recipes. It piqued my interest because, sometimes that's why I don't remember to drink water...it's not very INTERESTING after the first 8 oz. </div>
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She doesn't know this, but I've named it Jiggle Juice!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcYMxhEc5xqaJV2qfgJMVYfwv8eZUJngbIJvjiYm62a86FoCxLK1PhtS-McXR7ly73p7_yZimLk1ESbFXax7-mNszYHaMdT9nMyUgyaJ_hwTiSM0kpilO13tBrUW0YZMsnn3zgjK4p26y/s1600/jiggle1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcYMxhEc5xqaJV2qfgJMVYfwv8eZUJngbIJvjiYm62a86FoCxLK1PhtS-McXR7ly73p7_yZimLk1ESbFXax7-mNszYHaMdT9nMyUgyaJ_hwTiSM0kpilO13tBrUW0YZMsnn3zgjK4p26y/s200/jiggle1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht55G1tbdBkv9GogOFzAxn9t7zva0lvQ0VaDrRGRChtnt6Kcb8_mwD8qiSTSKhBU-oVPzdJw-sNhkb1jWOccaOTMkstrBg1lOaRYIBqg7yrZskYBDefmoBIueUnikukvD3euCsg1gWWNLk/s1600/jiggle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht55G1tbdBkv9GogOFzAxn9t7zva0lvQ0VaDrRGRChtnt6Kcb8_mwD8qiSTSKhBU-oVPzdJw-sNhkb1jWOccaOTMkstrBg1lOaRYIBqg7yrZskYBDefmoBIueUnikukvD3euCsg1gWWNLk/s200/jiggle2.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
Use 2L water and...<br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cucumber, peeled and sliced thin</li>
<li>1 lemon, sliced thin, peeled</li>
<li>fresh mint and basil (from my jardin!), chopped, as much as you desire!</li>
<li>Mix and Let it sit in your fridge overnight</li>
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How refreshing for a change, I'm sure I drank the whole jug by myself! Then made more the next day. And the next day. Even the seven year old apprentice asks for seconds!</div>
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A Drink and A Snack, bottled into one. And, another way to use my "crazy growing" mint and basil plants than the usual ice cream, tea, pesto and pasta.</div>
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Salut!</div>
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Insight :: Rustic Benches Studio</div>
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<br /></div>Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-13709419237762101542012-06-15T09:18:00.000-07:002012-06-15T09:18:49.472-07:00A Garden Experiment, Rustic StyleThe life of an adventurous wooder (okay, I made that up) means that I travel often. Maybe not alot, but often enough. I enjoy the travel from time to time, and I think that somewhere in my ancestry, there must have been a nomadic gene, and I've gotten it. From coast to coast, meeting and greeting, friends, family and clients.! What that also means, in immediate terms, is my garden suffers...or, let's say, it doesn't suffer so much as it doesn't start! Sure, here and there I plant containers of herbs, and sometimes tomatoes, but I've always wanted to be in one spot long enough to try a full out garden! This summer, I only have two weeks of travel planned for out of province, so I thought I'd give it a go. First step was to decide what I wanted to grow. I want my first attempt to be successful, so my plan is to keep it safe and simple, and then next year, expand to some more dangerous fare. I chose tomatoes (million sweets, rose and romas), parsely, basil, rosemary, carrots, beets and cukes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6t1Y1FHJ5ZxC8T3P-FcO4RbFHSdcVvW9pxMfQ4yR7BAfcsXol5r6fehnqGgOBZ0yECZQ8kSUlM1KiFHZ9N2iEv07YmOZvhyphenhyphenBw0AZSmBXSAoOx7RALfl4oHW6nHXnrOrYNxfoHHCyC16cx/s1600/farmers1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6t1Y1FHJ5ZxC8T3P-FcO4RbFHSdcVvW9pxMfQ4yR7BAfcsXol5r6fehnqGgOBZ0yECZQ8kSUlM1KiFHZ9N2iEv07YmOZvhyphenhyphenBw0AZSmBXSAoOx7RALfl4oHW6nHXnrOrYNxfoHHCyC16cx/s200/farmers1.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOGTfPgenXx-QUvqqfjyDaAqa8jMCmXFBQSyvXKM6BBjZO7KBzoEvayMtHi0TdvFFdMDUYdhrJyqSpUMnPS7s_-6EZYIzl2kxEE5JP8-joA8JaRCNbO-RNPD7kFLg9ZPCRvxhRNLtWUAF/s1600/farmers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOGTfPgenXx-QUvqqfjyDaAqa8jMCmXFBQSyvXKM6BBjZO7KBzoEvayMtHi0TdvFFdMDUYdhrJyqSpUMnPS7s_-6EZYIzl2kxEE5JP8-joA8JaRCNbO-RNPD7kFLg9ZPCRvxhRNLtWUAF/s200/farmers.jpg" width="200" /></a>Off I went to the<br />
<a href="http://www.perthfarmersmarket.ca/">Perth Farmers' Market</a><br />
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Saturdays from 8am - 1pm.<br />
May 12th - Oct 13th.<br />
Crystal Palace and Tay Basin<br />
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Rain or Shine<br />
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Such variety, energetic vendors, outdoor spaces and indoor spaces, the smell of food! Again. I said. the smell. of food.<br />
We got distracted. By This Sign.<br />
<span id="goog_1445282818"></span><span id="goog_1445282819"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUoKHSRqbEyFdJT48XQgYGPXjYGVn0V1G4PiqyPeAaOiyVS5t0ik4U-B52IJNB7hGMZB8oL7yIMCHL1co9PGZ6Tb9L-YQZh9LVa-Scxp03OqaP6L4NWDP2J_kK4ZNxzb5k_IDkPvVOVHgv/s1600/soup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUoKHSRqbEyFdJT48XQgYGPXjYGVn0V1G4PiqyPeAaOiyVS5t0ik4U-B52IJNB7hGMZB8oL7yIMCHL1co9PGZ6Tb9L-YQZh9LVa-Scxp03OqaP6L4NWDP2J_kK4ZNxzb5k_IDkPvVOVHgv/s200/soup1.jpg" width="150" /></a>Sounded interesting! And the buns looked fantastic. It was so quaint, we had to give it a try. Besides, we were hungry!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1y4OChmaaEOscoWbmtxPJxmNybUafPWQNbrp9wUbRrKaEt3RtUcUa1OYbRc2IfrcsK1unI0cV9aL23JVdoBxr37FBFhXdWlQb0r1S-Xiq0vs-LnlhzT33rCb7uB0yj2mas6anf9uTSk3/s1600/soup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1y4OChmaaEOscoWbmtxPJxmNybUafPWQNbrp9wUbRrKaEt3RtUcUa1OYbRc2IfrcsK1unI0cV9aL23JVdoBxr37FBFhXdWlQb0r1S-Xiq0vs-LnlhzT33rCb7uB0yj2mas6anf9uTSk3/s200/soup2.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Borshch and a Bun, glorious....<br />
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Do you think he liked it? At any rate, we still managed to get the garden started with these....$10 for 4 basil, 2 parsely, 2 cukes, 3 million sweet tomatoes and one rose tomato plant from <a href="http://www.sylviasplantplace.ca/">Sylvia's Plant Place</a> vendor table.<br />
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Next step is to create the garden space! <br />
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<i><b>Typical Vendors at the Perth Farmers Market :</b></i></div>
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Aaah Fudge<br />Products for Sale: Candied nuts, fudge, jellies, produce<br /><br />Beckwith Gardens<br />Products for Sale: non-certified organic produce, baking<br /><br />Blue Chicory Garden<br />Products for Sale: veggies, honey, hammocks, cedar furniture<br /><br />Carolyn Patrici...<br />Products for Sale: Homemade pies, cookies, tarts, loaf cakes, muffins.<br /><br />Hollyhock Grange<br />Products for Sale: bedding plants, non-certified organic produce, baking, preserves, lamb<br /><br />Jameshaven Farms<br />Products for Sale: BBQ pork, baking, preserves, pork, chicken, turkey.<br /><br />Joynt Farm<br />Products for Sale: certified organic lamb, certified organic beef, sweet corn<br /><br />Kailyard Farm<br />Products for Sale: garden produce<br /><br />My Gem Creations<br />Products for Sale: Jewelry<br /><br />P.D.'s Greenhouse<br />Products for Sale: bedding plants, hanging baskets, planters<br /><br />Queen Beet Farm<br />Products for Sale: veggies, baking, preserves<br /><br />Stella's Cake Shoppe<br />Products for Sale : cakes<br /><br />Stony Brae Farm<br />Products for Sale: shitaki mushrooms, wild fruit jams, herbal teas<br /><br />Strawberry Cottage<br /><br />Sweet Meadow Farm<br />Products for Sale: Certified organic vegetables<br /><br />Sylvia's Plant Place<br />Products for sale: bedding plants<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches Studio <br />
<br />Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-55217205063873799352012-06-04T07:42:00.000-07:002012-06-04T07:42:29.668-07:00Fresh! Simple.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK883PVGhtfogCVduDyQrRPf4wdIu6mNKmK7W8w7e8W_r5UIW2f1M3csELx9PGSKP6xeTJWYVqeGRzrb_MRc9f6pv0WxH3DFIrKPo3zQa5EWZw7D-C4X_UEDiLVcYW5DSTsfnHXebIQrr/s1600/farmers1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK883PVGhtfogCVduDyQrRPf4wdIu6mNKmK7W8w7e8W_r5UIW2f1M3csELx9PGSKP6xeTJWYVqeGRzrb_MRc9f6pv0WxH3DFIrKPo3zQa5EWZw7D-C4X_UEDiLVcYW5DSTsfnHXebIQrr/s200/farmers1.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open Saturdays</td></tr>
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I do my best to make smart food choices. Sometimes the choices aren't always right in front of my nose, but other times, they become so obvious, I wonder why I haven't done it sooner (or more often). See, my life has changed in so many ways over the past 10 years; I used to make choices only for myself, but, when you become entwined in family, choices eventually, if not immediately, become more selfless. I'm the kind of person that wants the best for the people close to me (for all good people, really), so over time, some basic things around here have really changed and have had a significant impact on us. Take food for example. I'm the first one to admit that a quick meal at the local fast food joint is convenient, and in some cases, a matter of life and death when you're starving after a long day of whatever, and cooking is the last thing on your mind. But, over the past few years, even this 'occasional' break-down has been completely weeded out, much like the dandelions in my driveway. There are many reasons why, but when you live and work in an area that is brimming with incredibly talented farmers, there really is no reason not to eat fresh on a regular basis, especially, in the growing season. Choosing farm fresh food supports the local economy, reduces the number of miles your food travels, has little or no packaging, and how about trying out something completely different, like bumbleberry pie or a locally raised bison burger! <br />
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In the triangle (let's call them Perth, Carleton Place and Smiths Falls), a round trip of 92 km's, there are town farmers' markets open on summer weekends, besides a bevy of individual farms that can be mapped on the various side roads in between. <br />
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I haven't been to all of them, but it is my goal this summer to discover as many as I can and to post what I find in a series of summer blogs, so stay tuned for interesting places, and maybe you'll find something you can try. I hope to make it so that you have NO excuse not to go for a weekend drive if you live in the area - and certainly, if you are an Ottawa scenic drive lover, I will describe what perfect fresh destinations await! <br />
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PS - I even plan to start my own full out home garden, learning from some of these local sages on how to better grow my own food. I know, I know, LOFTY goals, but I just LOVE my containers of fresh herbs and tomatoes, surely I can graduate to in ground, cucumbers, beets and squash?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJXvajdmZKj8LARphbjWycQPoVcku3rD4cikzMlAzTJu16YH2ceD-Ll77TgIXfNDFdqyQHELre2l_MYNtchUrN9SPkfwu-HpZdN72XwSL3bIub576w_JdRUs31k3DqEx9SbRhga4lur2VH/s1600/farmers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJXvajdmZKj8LARphbjWycQPoVcku3rD4cikzMlAzTJu16YH2ceD-Ll77TgIXfNDFdqyQHELre2l_MYNtchUrN9SPkfwu-HpZdN72XwSL3bIub576w_JdRUs31k3DqEx9SbRhga4lur2VH/s200/farmers.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perth Farmers Market</td></tr>
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The first market I will tackle is - <a href="http://www.perthfarmersmarket.ca/">Perth Farmers Market</a>, stay tuned.<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-2479063788619068822012-06-01T14:17:00.000-07:002012-06-01T14:39:22.581-07:00UH-mey-ZING!<i><b>a-ma-zing</b></i> :: adjective, causing surprise or sudden wonder.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0ubFzqK3z7MA67AXtMLfjIBcDVFjYHLocu2U6bga0NOLF0SlkEBqjxFY81M7N3syrKflfoWaC3ql9uHSOKaSiwZoS9duZ-tvenmyw-Aw35n1x1yvL1CNnJgFnNrX2n9h2S_xLI8qHvKN/s1600/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0ubFzqK3z7MA67AXtMLfjIBcDVFjYHLocu2U6bga0NOLF0SlkEBqjxFY81M7N3syrKflfoWaC3ql9uHSOKaSiwZoS9duZ-tvenmyw-Aw35n1x1yvL1CNnJgFnNrX2n9h2S_xLI8qHvKN/s200/bike.jpg" width="200" /></a>Is this a loosely used term? Personally, I find quite a few things in each day amazing and I don't think I use it to-o much. Frankly, the fact that we even exist is amazing to me. Did you know an asteroid missed us by a mere 8,900 miles on Tuesday? That's about the same distance as a flight from Ottawa to New Zealand.! The bicycle, a dragon fly's wings, the aurora borealis, the curious case of benjamin button. I am still amazed that I have been a parent for seven years, to a life-form, a future adult, that I am in charge of providing a decent foundation for! The internet! How about that? I used to think it was amazing, millions of networked computers, sharing bits and bytes that blossomed into useful tools and visual wonders.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GwUF3riBNReTJET2ExxF5-4zp-RZvBm5RkjkXhHV8Y0ijWfzQOk3HSaVuwYwFh41zCPHVWZgO_lxRjZjauw8n1Vlxbhz-3GpjqyGCoYTUoT6dkRMfn9eG1UWPll7LSLgsW5vWijgT-j_/s1600/bandb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GwUF3riBNReTJET2ExxF5-4zp-RZvBm5RkjkXhHV8Y0ijWfzQOk3HSaVuwYwFh41zCPHVWZgO_lxRjZjauw8n1Vlxbhz-3GpjqyGCoYTUoT6dkRMfn9eG1UWPll7LSLgsW5vWijgT-j_/s200/bandb.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
When I first logged on (remember that sound of the modem?), utter amazement , but now, it's not as wonderous, as it has become everyday tool for me. But as a techie of sorts, I teach someone how to use or fix their internet or their computer, or their iphone, and they will mouth that word....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAVnTlLiS_HZTnpT3QChV_iHaN2Uj1MOcwNMTEo79QmFTbAhW3r2TsH4pWPQFZZ1S1jpkB3nXFwoXplW6Gx1YB5_KHCF0AOSyBWyXeY0dvm1atyejWkpntgn1W8ylBsjhf3bo8R8BDTn0/s1600/footprints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAVnTlLiS_HZTnpT3QChV_iHaN2Uj1MOcwNMTEo79QmFTbAhW3r2TsH4pWPQFZZ1S1jpkB3nXFwoXplW6Gx1YB5_KHCF0AOSyBWyXeY0dvm1atyejWkpntgn1W8ylBsjhf3bo8R8BDTn0/s200/footprints.jpg" width="200" /></a>...People say it to my face, and behind my back (you know who you are, I've been told!) as a compliment, for my work, in my play, what I coach, what I teach and to be honest, I don't always know what the appropriate response is. I think I'm ordinary. I'm in my mid-forties, and in those years, I have done alot of stuff, and seen alot of things, but I still endeavour to learn something new everyday, and, in my opinion, my footprint is tiny on this planet (no BIG FEET jokes, please!). I get that people find what I do amazing, and it's only because they don't do it themselves (yet!) .. Put me beside a painter, a music maker, a farmer, a sensei, a yogi, a doctor, an olympic medallist, a duck carver, a helmet-cover maker, a groomer, a fundraiser, a realtor, a tireless volunteer, an elementary school teacher, a police officer, a baker, a cancer survivor, an animal activist, a stay at home parent or grandparent (imagine twins!)...and those are just a handful of the people I respect who do amazing things and who make a real, definitive, impact on lives, including mine.<br />
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I guess my point is that we find amazing things in each other, along with our own individual moments of nature's marvellous gifts. I respect alot of people in my life. I find who you are and what you do, and how you live :: amazing. The fact that I get to walk among you .. and have earned your compliment .. uh-mey-zing!<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-21004588630778590462012-05-28T05:45:00.000-07:002012-05-28T05:45:05.966-07:00Digital Drive-In<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMT0Wsi05IacoHYnjHc4JP-y1Tb68-fXC_j84L9vNKzQG5Rnk-gS2b5A4_iPPozH67_5XunufXAtF3pWnOxVKroi1YCKA9P2nZhgyYN2Mk2Uo0HPYuxHQ2zCj5hqx9opc64ShGt7DS2QuQ/s1600/drivein2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMT0Wsi05IacoHYnjHc4JP-y1Tb68-fXC_j84L9vNKzQG5Rnk-gS2b5A4_iPPozH67_5XunufXAtF3pWnOxVKroi1YCKA9P2nZhgyYN2Mk2Uo0HPYuxHQ2zCj5hqx9opc64ShGt7DS2QuQ/s200/drivein2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
When I was a kid, I remember waiting in the long car line to get into the Drive - In just off of Merivale Rd. in the (then) outskirts of Ottawa. Now the scene at that intersection is long gone, and the fields have been replaced with rows and rows of new homes and busy streets. That Drive-In nostalgia still stays with me though, and now in my mid-forties, those memories bring back the smell of popcorn and that 'open-air' experience when life was just a little bit different than it is now. Drive - Ins are few and far between, and even though there has been a wave of Outdoor Movie showings in parking lots, run by new companies like (<a href="http://www.facebook.com/OutdoormoviesON?ref=pb">Outdoor Movies - ONT</a> AND <a href="http://www.facebook.com/OutdoormoviesBC?ref=pb">Outdoor Movies - BC</a>), the ACTUAL drive-in atmosphere is completely different. This is something I've tried to keep alive in my family, and fortunately, they are just as eager for the experience - it's just that there aren't very many of them around anymore. So, when you find one - hold onto it, and go often! The cars, the kids, the dogs, the playground in front of the screen, the smell of the outdoor food, the setting sun, the mosquitoes, and the honking in anticipation...AND, these days..the drive-in ain't your Momma's drive-in. <br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Port-Elmsley-Drive-In/143968295676756?ref=ts">The Port Elmsley Drive In</a> was AweSomE! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWdUNmLkPMXQmpWfSzokr2jyn-a25S_-WMPSuZF5hC8VOVaGo1KGjY0-yGDD_EpbvXWCUt4bXeu5lxHT8PNU9T3HYjq7BRAtYKC7_Jmw8FnYANITIazbl_Xa9rnZhQd2Wol-dCzbMUy3-/s1600/drivein3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWdUNmLkPMXQmpWfSzokr2jyn-a25S_-WMPSuZF5hC8VOVaGo1KGjY0-yGDD_EpbvXWCUt4bXeu5lxHT8PNU9T3HYjq7BRAtYKC7_Jmw8FnYANITIazbl_Xa9rnZhQd2Wol-dCzbMUy3-/s200/drivein3.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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In car stereo sound and now digital picture has made the visual and sound experience rival any indoor movie theatre - the difference .. fresh air and lounging comfort! <br />
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Impossible to describe in words the incredible difference the digital picture has made, you will have to go and see it for yourself!. It is crystal clear, (we watched the Lorax first) bright and, I might be mistaken, but the movies seem to start earlier. At dusk (8:50pm) it was still very light in the sky, but the picture was not muted by the sunset at all. And there is not a bad seat in the field .. all have excellent views.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3Cp1y3TbaA__Nn57HM3SwXuyYkjJwd7jzAgEC3Rbgl274Pg3645ALYyihKuijT2B9A10j0OJxzjgSdVWtrH92s_jtlXaG4XZZHGq5QRAzg8G6ZkiXVnc3WD7Tj0I9EgalUCyeJMTDagO/s1600/drivein1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3Cp1y3TbaA__Nn57HM3SwXuyYkjJwd7jzAgEC3Rbgl274Pg3645ALYyihKuijT2B9A10j0OJxzjgSdVWtrH92s_jtlXaG4XZZHGq5QRAzg8G6ZkiXVnc3WD7Tj0I9EgalUCyeJMTDagO/s200/drivein1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We settled in, seats waaaay back, with our twizzlers and drinks, and sonney snoring in the back. He didn't seem interested in the movies, but The Seven Year old Apprentice was wrapped in his sleeping bag and pj's, ready to honk the horn!<br />
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Back to the mosquitoes...they aren't that bad, and there are some serious remedies people have come up with to avoid the pests. While walking around the parking lanes at intermission, I admired the ingenuity, from taped on mesh to full out mosquito nets that covered entire cars. We didn't have anything, and we did not suffer, even with the windows partially open. And there were many die-hards sitting out on their lawnchairs enjoying the exterior view with their pets throughout both movies that we stayed for.<br />
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Next to try : <a href="http://www.facebook.com/twilightdrivein">The Twilight Drive-In</a><br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-46473670295609008872012-05-24T14:16:00.000-07:002012-05-24T14:16:02.625-07:00Fresh Mint!In the late days of winter and the early days of spring (let's call it St. Patrick's Day), some guests joined us for dinner. We'll call them the Good Doctor, the Duck Carver, Thing One and Thing Two. While Thing One and Thing Two played with the Seven Year old Apprentice, the adults were left to converse about adult things. Many topics were covered, including, but not most importantly, the demise of the Vancouver Canucks and the Ottawa Senators...the last two Canadian Teams in the Stanley Cup playoffs, of which we were all disappointed with. As the sighs wound down, the Good Doctor and I got to discussing the merits of all the fresh food recipes we prepare, when we can, amidst our hectic schedules. We all garden, preserve, bake bread and even make homemade ice cream. STOP! What did you say? That's right, homemade ice cream. Thing One and Thing Two stopped playing....the Seven Year old Apprentice leaned in closer. The Good Doctor had even brought some freshly made strawberry ice cream and, the St. Patty's day kicker, mint chocolate chip, to share....and then suddenly the children were still. The Duck Carver continued to check the BlackBerries...I mean, blackberry, but I know one ear was listening. I heard whispers of "let's forgo dinner, and skip right to the ..." But I insisted we have a real dinner first. Sure, I got the "party-pooper" looks, but who cares, I had just made FRESH PASTA in a pasta maker from scratch and Bubble Bread. It didn't matter, the ice cream was on everyone's mind. No sooner had the last fork fallen did not Thing Two exclaim, "can we have ice cream now?" Seven Year old Apprentice was nodding in agreement, and Thing One asked for more bubble bread (nice kid, that one). I whisked away the dishes, sprinted to the freezer and scooped dollops of both flavours into bowls. Again, it was quiet. "This is the best ice cream in the world" my Seven Year old Apprentice exclaimed. No other moment in that evening will be remembered, only the moments with ice cream.<br />
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A week later (when the last bits of the St. Patty's Day ice cream were scooped), it was "matter-o'factly" suggested that we needed to make some ourselves. And so I did, with a little bit of boyish help. And with FRESH MINT from the garden.<br />
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I don't know what the Good Doctor did, but here's my recipe :<br />
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Mint o' Chip Ice Cream<br />
<ul>
<li>Use 1 tsp mint extract or chop up 6 leaves.</li>
<li>Warm up 2 cups of whipping cream with leaves or extract (10 minutes, medium, do not boil)</li>
<li>(strain leaves) mix with 1c. milk and 1c. sugar</li>
<li>stir in 2 tsps. lemon juice (I used half a lemon) </li>
<li>pour mixture into Ice Cream Machine</li>
<li>chop up chocolate chips</li>
<li>After 15 minutes in the Machine, add chopped chips</li>
<li>Takes one full hour, or until the machine stops </li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim05ENNTw5Xm55HAUQpFJcul9-AFLYF8geILzNZz84Wk16AZBX_9sTsaNwZac66YMae5uckANBf76GiiJR9Q758w5DfJSaGvG3OJEvQIhdiuTa7XCds8r4rZ9OWQgS7iy7jqZ4M4vkFWln/s1600/ic2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim05ENNTw5Xm55HAUQpFJcul9-AFLYF8geILzNZz84Wk16AZBX_9sTsaNwZac66YMae5uckANBf76GiiJR9Q758w5DfJSaGvG3OJEvQIhdiuTa7XCds8r4rZ9OWQgS7iy7jqZ4M4vkFWln/s200/ic2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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First Scoop went to the Seven Year old Apprentice, who could barely contain his excitement.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xMwLAb-LgYAz1S0_MblnDWVCmrORgjHjIslYh7diRqzP_r1FG_1pa1RXfiOrJY36tY0mWt9pGGswjIUX0D61FLcI14mSfnvdZKqK1Be2l5XciEcaeO-zeRPXhTOx5OSuUamU4E_FabR_/s1600/ic3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xMwLAb-LgYAz1S0_MblnDWVCmrORgjHjIslYh7diRqzP_r1FG_1pa1RXfiOrJY36tY0mWt9pGGswjIUX0D61FLcI14mSfnvdZKqK1Be2l5XciEcaeO-zeRPXhTOx5OSuUamU4E_FabR_/s200/ic3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Thankfully, I too, got a cheer! "NOW, THIS is the best ice cream yet!, when can we make some MORE!"<br />
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:: Insight Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-57571185615317188422012-05-08T12:49:00.000-07:002012-05-08T12:49:15.712-07:00Re*Cycle and Re*Use<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Part of what I do is find materials that would possibly end up in a landfill or bonfire and reuse them in my pieces. Old hardware on discarded furniture,pallets, deteriorating outbuildings, and scrap ends from local wood mills. </div>
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Recently one such adventure took me deep into downtown Smiths Falls. An area business called the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/thevineyardwinery">Vineyard Winery</a>, announced on their facebook page that they had shipping pallets to offer out for re-use. So, I loaded up the Rustic Benches trailer, and off I went to scout out the potential. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBhFXOGch8Kr_ix2h8bQ3JzsujrSHp8C55YJsEWQvpdKc_7G1tfLmypAYCYSDw1SZ8y7Kxso8aNF5UHD0Vqt1URB9I_hazWJYICC9NzRqOEm9Qp2UqYgjHuStAlsLY2ieMTTqyVAXF1mJC/s1600/pallet1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBhFXOGch8Kr_ix2h8bQ3JzsujrSHp8C55YJsEWQvpdKc_7G1tfLmypAYCYSDw1SZ8y7Kxso8aNF5UHD0Vqt1URB9I_hazWJYICC9NzRqOEm9Qp2UqYgjHuStAlsLY2ieMTTqyVAXF1mJC/s200/pallet1.jpg" width="200" /></a>At the Chambers Street entrance, I was greeted by "Brody" the resident shnoofer, who sized me up immediately, and with that super-sensitive nose, he knew right away, that I too was a L.A.W.S. adopter and volunteer, and gave his woof of approval to shop operator, Eric. <br />
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Now, don't get me wrong, but, as I looked around the store, I realized that this recycle mission was also an excuse disguised as a reason to purchase some Spanish Cheeky Monkey wine while I was at it, but, I'm getting off topic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhruqlW-rAEg-QGnAGIncbLNd3ZwNNonRfln8mH4u0kpoST3CWLgDYSrMTpOjFtMTx2pLYdnSjkLnRcww79_Nwn3LlQZiPoU41IRCNEHecZ8E_ktKumHrFGFLjMXp7VZqWTs4f5yRpywkOX/s1600/pallet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmvy78xzWrid_TxFqP0HQonq8ARGAVIcrq_gDQFreRtvW7s7xaq6kSiO-oJBnfznhFZrgubtYihg2j4Mm9jUc9IIF5Q7CoFHQyAUYwzSpU8lPWSRQn8888iDkbQR4_5rNn_Is0b_Civxg/s200/pallet3.jpg" width="200" /></a>Sure enough, there were five pallets, three of which had some nice clear maple and oak, perfectly aged. They were he-avy, and thankfully, Eric, was willing to assist, while introducing me to the benefits of the six week wine kit I was planning to purchase. Wine purchased, dog admired and pallets loaded, I was off to the studio to rip apart the pallets. These being of the exceptionally well constructed type, it wasn't long before I got out the ole trusty circular saw to cut out the salvageable parts, and after one pallet, I already had a great haul. I stopped at two pallets, and plan to do the third shortly. So herein lies the interesting part of this story....Stay tuned for what beauty will be made of the pallet beasts.!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfBDTu7LfoinLHeuvD1TTxxZZkgPHKUzMjJc-C9mh5G_M5TlSKJP0buT1-2vr2TdymDl1ieY-Kljeih1wD_LbsDmWOnIFg83mL3VJIRs44-jbYpyFTS9EvfYjO78pCeexiN0rqBylBGa_/s1600/pallet4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfBDTu7LfoinLHeuvD1TTxxZZkgPHKUzMjJc-C9mh5G_M5TlSKJP0buT1-2vr2TdymDl1ieY-Kljeih1wD_LbsDmWOnIFg83mL3VJIRs44-jbYpyFTS9EvfYjO78pCeexiN0rqBylBGa_/s200/pallet4.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBH2z9Ir3aqroHMiIlNkeDU3-YkXt2KpIgs3kGqFPskk12mVr-Zp92z2cAVlngtHvZYnBGm129lB4LvwgO6kFGnfL4BM6TLoSvOp7HVzArFnPxuiGL-1q85Y79pkxbkmy3N7hJRPOyhYvJ/s1600/pallet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBH2z9Ir3aqroHMiIlNkeDU3-YkXt2KpIgs3kGqFPskk12mVr-Zp92z2cAVlngtHvZYnBGm129lB4LvwgO6kFGnfL4BM6TLoSvOp7HVzArFnPxuiGL-1q85Y79pkxbkmy3N7hJRPOyhYvJ/s200/pallet2.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-33299699909780089872012-04-16T06:18:00.000-07:002012-04-16T06:18:23.164-07:00Swirls!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJ7qxEnhXirv_AW3eNW8MzDiIfNfshm1VapusNZvRb5AalNR6Kn4BkMcBIciTOv9fJBW7g-4A9TrDfjUXNgqaAbMEzKsolfTxhn6gY9q9wZGPrbNKxZqUz7fPvpotZ3lZiCCZyyM1tGJZ/s1600/cc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJ7qxEnhXirv_AW3eNW8MzDiIfNfshm1VapusNZvRb5AalNR6Kn4BkMcBIciTOv9fJBW7g-4A9TrDfjUXNgqaAbMEzKsolfTxhn6gY9q9wZGPrbNKxZqUz7fPvpotZ3lZiCCZyyM1tGJZ/s200/cc1.jpg" width="200" /></a>Often I am asked to make a sweet treat, but since I have a small family, making a cake or batch of cupcakes tends to go wasted after the first day or two. I guess it's not just our family-size, we're also not big sweet tooths, but, it is nice to satisfy that craving once in awhile. The thing of it is, halving recipes, or throwing out extras, is not as fun as sharing, so when I know of an upcoming social event, I'll make that sweet treat, set aside some for us, and then offer the rest out. This happened recently, so I dug out a recipe I was looking forward to experimenting with. It was a berry cheesecake swirl, which called for blueberries - but when I went to the market, blackberries were on sale, so I made it with them.<br />
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I found the recipe at this blog : <a href="http://bakedbree.com/blueberry-cheesecake-bars">Baked By Bree</a> which I tweaked, slightly.<br />
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<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-ingredients">
Ingredients</div>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients">2 Tablespoons sugar
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients">2 teaspoons cornstarch
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients">1 cup berries (calls for blueberries, I used blackberries)
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients">1/4 cup juice (calls for orange, I used passion fruit)</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients">2 cups flour
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup powdered sugar
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" itemprop="ingredients">1 cup butter
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" itemprop="ingredients">1 (8-ounce) cream cheese at room temperature
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup sugar
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-9" itemprop="ingredients">1 Tablespoon flour
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-10" itemprop="ingredients">2 eggs
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-12" itemprop="ingredients">1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
</ul>
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<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions">
Instructions</div>
<ol class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sFUNHehAomC6MKccZJgOCFAHQ0-EPrBtc8i8Vul5EkaXyqo8rZWBmVEKrzPlq8WgwEs8ma5N6uSbznI0qJBpETJARBRuMPKkNr3HvicW_98uAvvuhgxtUd1F2ZbEotzwCBdK0VDB7o5b/s1600/cc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sFUNHehAomC6MKccZJgOCFAHQ0-EPrBtc8i8Vul5EkaXyqo8rZWBmVEKrzPlq8WgwEs8ma5N6uSbznI0qJBpETJARBRuMPKkNr3HvicW_98uAvvuhgxtUd1F2ZbEotzwCBdK0VDB7o5b/s200/cc2.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Put
the sugar, cornstarch, juice, and berries in a small
saucepan. Cook over medium heat until it is thickened and has come to a
bubble. Take off the heat and set aside.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Mix the flour, powdered sugar, and butter by hand or in the mixer until it comes together.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions">It will be crumbly.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Press into a foil or parchment lined 9×13 pan. Bake for 20 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" itemprop="recipeInstructions">While the crust is cooking, cream together the cream cheese and sugar. Add the flour. Add the eggs, vanilla.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Pour the cream cheese mixture over the hot crust.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-6" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Spoon the reserved berries over the cream cheese mixture.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-7" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Take a knife and swirl the blueberries throughout the cream cheese.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-8" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Put the pan back into the 350 degree oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until the bars are set.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-9" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Let the pan cool on a rack for an hour. Then put the bars back into the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-10" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar.</li>
</ol>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsdzX-mmH8KvjAW1xDIA0Nr5ZLeo2ocFgJDpdRs7upgQ6vfStujAEPEgYkZ0eX4IX24OvpZBQzyhoKZeLj7uo5h5PChR-e7Nkp9G2NhIEabXOAQ6TZ-fIeFal68V-dLHuy6TshcmTJt2-/s1600/cc3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsdzX-mmH8KvjAW1xDIA0Nr5ZLeo2ocFgJDpdRs7upgQ6vfStujAEPEgYkZ0eX4IX24OvpZBQzyhoKZeLj7uo5h5PChR-e7Nkp9G2NhIEabXOAQ6TZ-fIeFal68V-dLHuy6TshcmTJt2-/s200/cc3.jpg" width="200" /></a> I tested, and then shared .. mmm! <br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-9026784590999208812012-04-03T06:58:00.000-07:002012-04-03T06:58:11.250-07:00Bubbles (not JUST for kids!)So, why do I make bread? It's rarely perfect, takes alot of time, and can be messy! My guess is that I keep looking for that recipe that will be 'the aha moment' like that perfect pass, personal best run-time, or high score, and when I get that perfect moment, I'm not satisfied, I try to achieve it again, and again and so on. It's a personal challenge, and baking bread is that challenge, for me, despite how long I've been working at it (and, if you know what <a href="http://katimavik.org/">Katimavik</a> is, I've been baking bread since my tour in that program in the 80's). While the ingredients are basic, it's the time you put into it that really matters. For some breads, kneading is key, and others, it's the patience of rising. And, of course, I am talking about baking bread without a bread machine, the hands on kind of bread from start to finish. <br />
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<a href="http://www.foodgawker.com/">Foodgawker</a> is my favorite place to find FOOD .. the pictures are dreamy and there are so many people out there with good, tried and true ideas, so why re-invent a recipe.? Tweak it yes, but the steps are the same. Here's one I found to share and you can adapt it to your taste. If you like garlic and herbs, and if you like a bread that you don't have to slice, this is for you ... curious? I've done it twice so far, and it has been 'no fail', turned out perfectly both times, and my family has been begging me to make it everyday.! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvOTr2JS9LbeNZ7OrX7b8KUak9EB2t5-iHH20kIIHyYz_uFUB5kBO4mQE6AFfzH2WySJKdm9aR3sUqJhPT54Zx7qlYdGUwWQ1f_LsK2UZGLKu3jluCU3lP60mt3vt08mnBiUI88KLIcjU/s1600/bb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvOTr2JS9LbeNZ7OrX7b8KUak9EB2t5-iHH20kIIHyYz_uFUB5kBO4mQE6AFfzH2WySJKdm9aR3sUqJhPT54Zx7qlYdGUwWQ1f_LsK2UZGLKu3jluCU3lP60mt3vt08mnBiUI88KLIcjU/s200/bb1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
This is where I found it :: <a href="http://www.mykitchenaddiction.com/2012/03/garlic-bubble-loaf/">My Kitchen Addiction Blog</a><br />
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<div align="LEFT">
<strong>Garlic Bubble Loaf<br />
</strong>Makes 1 loaf, 12 servings </div>
<div align="LEFT">
2 1/2 – 3 cups bread flour</div>
<div align="LEFT">
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast</div>
<div align="LEFT">
1 tablespoon sugar</div>
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1 teaspoon salt</div>
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1/2 cup milk</div>
<div align="LEFT">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_d82F5J74mCLoR7etgPt2eoo7GLiYe_CWFbaneU3Gkrni1ysxDihpZXVreMLisI93FwdxPTXhEVxOq8cZIhYv4aPvMCgXfUDOzQWBXiOhYpKCud8u3ebz30WIhVJFWsXWqg4sSKx1QRs/s1600/bb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_d82F5J74mCLoR7etgPt2eoo7GLiYe_CWFbaneU3Gkrni1ysxDihpZXVreMLisI93FwdxPTXhEVxOq8cZIhYv4aPvMCgXfUDOzQWBXiOhYpKCud8u3ebz30WIhVJFWsXWqg4sSKx1QRs/s200/bb2.jpg" width="200" /></a>1/2 cup water</div>
<div align="LEFT">
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided</div>
<div align="LEFT">
1 egg</div>
<div align="LEFT">
1 teaspoon ground paprika</div>
<div align="LEFT">
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder</div>
<div align="LEFT">
1 tablespoon sesame seeds</div>
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<div align="LEFT">
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<div align="LEFT">
- In large mixer bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups bread flour, yeast, sugar and salt. Whisk to combine.</div>
- Meanwhile, in a microwave safe bowl, heat milk, water and 2 tablespoons
of butter (or shortening) until warm. Add the warm liquids and the egg to the flour mixture. Beat by hand, or if you must, by ... <br />
- By hand, gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
Knead on floured surface about 2 minutes, until the dough is soft and
smooth.<br />
- Divide the dough into 2 parts, then divide each half into 6 pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nqc14HPVc-7GUs20dqE98l6uhIwc8HxLGtWgPrR0EjxmKlcpRBaeQMxi3lEQu-giYdqs7eGejoLxONagydIz5pz2c3iIKNuLnp0UfF9xhrZ1akAZ1zxmo7IfhkgEA0lTM5Os39DmepLi/s1600/bb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nqc14HPVc-7GUs20dqE98l6uhIwc8HxLGtWgPrR0EjxmKlcpRBaeQMxi3lEQu-giYdqs7eGejoLxONagydIz5pz2c3iIKNuLnp0UfF9xhrZ1akAZ1zxmo7IfhkgEA0lTM5Os39DmepLi/s200/bb4.jpg" width="200" /></a>- Melt the remaining 1/4 of butter, then combine with 'herb of your choice' (I used basil flakes) and garlic
powder, and mix well.<br />
- Dip the balls of dough into butter mixture. <br />
- Place
in a greased 9 x 5- inch bread pan, using 6 balls on each layer.<br />
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds.<br />
- Cover and let rise in warm place until
indentation remains after lightly touching. About 15-30 minutes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuj_Yg3BVGJ577t7Z_STAatxuIcitaeZ2J2K_8-3Wa0CoHLt5pIbzlvoj_lh-DHlCzwK-8eINUxLJnCvAtkpnz9YentUyiYWTybw4g5fLB_KvgkdpAxqQgkuD5DRTk5tcajhO1MENQ8ex-/s1600/bb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuj_Yg3BVGJ577t7Z_STAatxuIcitaeZ2J2K_8-3Wa0CoHLt5pIbzlvoj_lh-DHlCzwK-8eINUxLJnCvAtkpnz9YentUyiYWTybw4g5fLB_KvgkdpAxqQgkuD5DRTk5tcajhO1MENQ8ex-/s200/bb5.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUn7kxH-WtyUNc1pTx3iGdGVKuk59UbfXSJCKlggDhWRbCRG6LicUeZtOuhe50LNRHtDGHnCxuAby6uWY7cNGyxWgVsllby8GiNMWbVIRsCIqT75kXa0bNfzDjUKB3Aw1Rqeg5HTulFwG/s1600/bb6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUn7kxH-WtyUNc1pTx3iGdGVKuk59UbfXSJCKlggDhWRbCRG6LicUeZtOuhe50LNRHtDGHnCxuAby6uWY7cNGyxWgVsllby8GiNMWbVIRsCIqT75kXa0bNfzDjUKB3Aw1Rqeg5HTulFwG/s200/bb6.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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- Preheat the oven to 375°F. <br />
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown.<br />
- Remove from pan and serve warm<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZEjs-l_4G8cpdO2BGw-Z30QUqqtK1YLnPmSjDTjvLwGgJeTI8aynijgG0OU2bOq-1-MN7Fg7g-TifX4Zs6pgn_yaivdHIfHcKtFbwz43YIVvSMj_o0a5vVIHPLhigfGyZSLpsASv5HBy/s1600/bb8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZEjs-l_4G8cpdO2BGw-Z30QUqqtK1YLnPmSjDTjvLwGgJeTI8aynijgG0OU2bOq-1-MN7Fg7g-TifX4Zs6pgn_yaivdHIfHcKtFbwz43YIVvSMj_o0a5vVIHPLhigfGyZSLpsASv5HBy/s200/bb8.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxFzcJ1pxXiX-HUKe1DTtRa8ksEPNJAof9fcsAA58Lr2krVLfQ47oklKcVWuB9v_mpPL6uTGvdWFZNUw6yJb-Mc-PiJtMl1qVSD0zj_7ybIX0jhNEBeF0ihoeXRCQymqNRQyQvXBMUZkR/s1600/bb7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxFzcJ1pxXiX-HUKe1DTtRa8ksEPNJAof9fcsAA58Lr2krVLfQ47oklKcVWuB9v_mpPL6uTGvdWFZNUw6yJb-Mc-PiJtMl1qVSD0zj_7ybIX0jhNEBeF0ihoeXRCQymqNRQyQvXBMUZkR/s200/bb7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I promise, you will eat the WHOLE LOAF, in one sitting... :-)<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-86732178061068619432012-03-27T07:48:00.000-07:002012-03-27T07:51:12.243-07:00Not without Kleenex<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tXVyUF3ZK2tISe1DhYoAO751Aob9N1lv1kRkFYuRXEgV0Ys7Y_0Vacsr0DPQHZSPmPKJYN_TBAsf0PX_4SBtkaFYcA121NtgeSOfkXWs4BpiVo4TT9ytvMS0YfAlhyphenhyphenRcH6hLYBWcL4Gx/s1600/cosmo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tXVyUF3ZK2tISe1DhYoAO751Aob9N1lv1kRkFYuRXEgV0Ys7Y_0Vacsr0DPQHZSPmPKJYN_TBAsf0PX_4SBtkaFYcA121NtgeSOfkXWs4BpiVo4TT9ytvMS0YfAlhyphenhyphenRcH6hLYBWcL4Gx/s200/cosmo.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Dog 2000-2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's never easy to lose someone you care about. And, in this studio, the black dog was the anchor of the operation, the steady alpha, who made sure things were in order. She was with us for 12 years (that's 84 human years, and 12 bazillion orange balls), and with heavy hearts we laid her to rest on Saturday, March 23rd, due to a liver problem.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-qAE5hf88msmDBPBc9Le4lxJTQvqrVTMlm3vG1bHFuk6eJSofS4zLunLwIWl92vMgsI4eyHiY5r-QGW84xnqo6-9BKhuXqdq70iIwRpvNnaeD2LxekZGeBpy2RH09O3B3rbq6Qr1XMY2/s1600/chasee1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-qAE5hf88msmDBPBc9Le4lxJTQvqrVTMlm3vG1bHFuk6eJSofS4zLunLwIWl92vMgsI4eyHiY5r-QGW84xnqo6-9BKhuXqdq70iIwRpvNnaeD2LxekZGeBpy2RH09O3B3rbq6Qr1XMY2/s200/chasee1.jpg" width="162" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown Dog 1998-2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's been a tough few days, and I'm struggling with the reminder of the impact these precious souls have in our lives, having recently lost a 10 year companion (the brown dog) in 2008. Their quiet presence in your space, okay, sometimes loud, but for the most part, a family member that knows when and how to blend in. Most people around you, come and go as you travel the years - but that constant companion is the one that has experienced everything with you, absorbing your ups and downs with a constant wag and pondering eyes. Sure, they may be just hungry, but I have come to believe that they 'get us' and offer us their sense of calm to navigate the stresses of everyday life.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi5psJ7_mWxYE3il_Yvp4PeHTwsVyq8VzOtKG_Qcs6DHpkfzyeHz-3XTlW7QFA1Y5ZsXy4QfArUjIQK22EJKobrkPCZX7FXlD5tWSxf0fmypaMyOcV-PU4pU5ELQWAhFi-xOF28ryqMpT/s1600/sonney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi5psJ7_mWxYE3il_Yvp4PeHTwsVyq8VzOtKG_Qcs6DHpkfzyeHz-3XTlW7QFA1Y5ZsXy4QfArUjIQK22EJKobrkPCZX7FXlD5tWSxf0fmypaMyOcV-PU4pU5ELQWAhFi-xOF28ryqMpT/s200/sonney.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blonde Dog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We are extremely lucky that Sonney (the blonde dog), who found us just this past December, has been around for our transition to a one dog family again. He may be an eight year old, oblivious boy, but, he has been helpful without effort, just being himself. Sometimes, the intersections of life seem coincidental, or we can call it good timing - but that Sunday "on a whim" trip to L.A.W.S in December was an important event that is helping us (especially the six year old apprentice) get through this heartbreak.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnHZgJHVn6-H1fGeCtcpeR5ByfcB21uy3hJ11nzEFyIPl-iLNzPD5gJLBf62NoSLBlcbtW0IBejzoMUDg1XGrJFtxS3nhkvkmEb7SN31lGQc0rbTSuOxNeZjjdaXmOwe6zJNENp2jTXCr/s1600/C+and+C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnHZgJHVn6-H1fGeCtcpeR5ByfcB21uy3hJ11nzEFyIPl-iLNzPD5gJLBf62NoSLBlcbtW0IBejzoMUDg1XGrJFtxS3nhkvkmEb7SN31lGQc0rbTSuOxNeZjjdaXmOwe6zJNENp2jTXCr/s200/C+and+C.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chasee and Cosmo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know many of you met Cosmo, either as a family friend, or as a visiting client. She was always eager to welcome the new visitors to the studio, because it meant extra attention for her (of course!), so I know you share some of our pain, and we appreciate your condolences. We will never be the same, but, we do know all dogs go to heaven, and, as fisher says "that's where we are going, so we can all be together again one day"<br />
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We are four paws quieter today. Give yours an extra squeeze :-)<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-38568675797068535992012-03-15T09:57:00.000-07:002012-03-15T09:57:17.920-07:00Just Because I'm Hungry!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVafMOokLe0cTMlgZY-mG3Gq9RlkUzkrPpJveZ1nTRMHmE6ihRtL6VaDQ9DL8ZOZTO0KcrKXPNmimtBOjJjEwh7b2vp7E-tiXuX-S0uOddCSqWdXnAk6-4GPgIFjzopzHbjpmP8kAtUoP1/s1600/pb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVafMOokLe0cTMlgZY-mG3Gq9RlkUzkrPpJveZ1nTRMHmE6ihRtL6VaDQ9DL8ZOZTO0KcrKXPNmimtBOjJjEwh7b2vp7E-tiXuX-S0uOddCSqWdXnAk6-4GPgIFjzopzHbjpmP8kAtUoP1/s200/pb1.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpqKMDS48d8KCCO9EQAEfq5Zhd3OGvXuV6BIDzAY4dE7neBlEiapCwZ9ty46MHGONNDj8jOsrQfCmoCICXHyaZtFulb63VP_p519MlZ34yrR5jlEgwPVEOWi46Sf_aKLpZvtYDCdGWZfE/s1600/pb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpqKMDS48d8KCCO9EQAEfq5Zhd3OGvXuV6BIDzAY4dE7neBlEiapCwZ9ty46MHGONNDj8jOsrQfCmoCICXHyaZtFulb63VP_p519MlZ34yrR5jlEgwPVEOWi46Sf_aKLpZvtYDCdGWZfE/s200/pb2.jpg" width="200" /></a>I have this really great recipe for pizza dough. Over the years, I feel like I have been able to tweak it to near perfection. This is obviously for my taste, but most everyone has been complimentary. Now, you say ... who's NOT going to compliment the cook? True. But, if they keep coming back for it, I take it as a good sign. The good thing about this dough is that it's versatile. It can rise up for a thick crust, or you can roll it out very thin, for a crispy crust. I may share this recipe with you, but not yet :-) The reason I bring it up is because I was looking for something different to make for dinner, but still wanted to make something pizza-ish, so I took to pinterest (my visual drooling app) and found a fun idea. Here's the original blog I read for this idea :: <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2012/02/stuffed-pizza-rolls-recipe.html">Pizza Rolls</a> :: You can do it with store bought dough, or make your own, but these pizza balls were super-easy to make, and oh my gosh amazing to bite into, fresh out of the oven. The best part - stuff them with whatever you want...the first time, I cooked up honey garlic sausages, made some pesto and grated some cheese...that's it.! <br />
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They were SOOOOO good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEo2vIxNFVrV3auW_Axa2p1AP3dxHAP3U-WjZMRQW_SV19uYBkMNfrxBXhkjDrTAJnuF7xd2K7dsVdcet68CDaZyoAzOxwxQRgARphWB1TKJc8xz3SvYImrO4BCtzb-Kpauj722IiViGMG/s1600/pb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEo2vIxNFVrV3auW_Axa2p1AP3dxHAP3U-WjZMRQW_SV19uYBkMNfrxBXhkjDrTAJnuF7xd2K7dsVdcet68CDaZyoAzOxwxQRgARphWB1TKJc8xz3SvYImrO4BCtzb-Kpauj722IiViGMG/s200/pb5.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVIsDZnp9tP21E6sRtI5XuPyLlZSORvS-r09fxFW5BUH2jGa36WEkIz7bFhGGCg73Pj6GrwiSZ6T6P-kp1PRpZunI03BZvs4N0sejZVve1IGlMKYMvkGB1krB2PS2-hTG3cwEQA9gXaf/s1600/pb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVIsDZnp9tP21E6sRtI5XuPyLlZSORvS-r09fxFW5BUH2jGa36WEkIz7bFhGGCg73Pj6GrwiSZ6T6P-kp1PRpZunI03BZvs4N0sejZVve1IGlMKYMvkGB1krB2PS2-hTG3cwEQA9gXaf/s200/pb3.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4fB8CfFP9bhizDBaUszNg1iegoUN1_8ZqkluinIj0QczqXM4OJ-lmIYXL9G2bqMIWXpTS0BKsu_1og4zEg2jCAHE6Lr3COjc9MfJ7A5yGjQ8h7T6J1S3FTYDqBPBvEeUie-tkziPjGGN/s1600/pb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4fB8CfFP9bhizDBaUszNg1iegoUN1_8ZqkluinIj0QczqXM4OJ-lmIYXL9G2bqMIWXpTS0BKsu_1og4zEg2jCAHE6Lr3COjc9MfJ7A5yGjQ8h7T6J1S3FTYDqBPBvEeUie-tkziPjGGN/s200/pb4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Roll out your dough<br />
Cut into 20-24 squares<br />
smear pesto or sauce<br />
add ingredients (not tooooo stuffed)<br />
grate cheese<br />
fold and shape into balls<br />
line them up close together in a oven safe pan<br />
sprinkle with seasoning (I grated parmesan, basil flakes and oregano flakes)<br />
Bake at 400C for about 15-20 minutes<br />
Cool a few minutes<br />
Separate onto plates and dip in marinara sauce<br />
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Insight :: Rustic Benches StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-29778109044366697162012-03-07T07:56:00.000-08:002012-03-07T07:56:30.544-08:00Fresh Start!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNr2aJrDyxlAtSQEN_qP5DERPupkTLdPCppot3rMSmE9hlfpWuhI01gEYY3QCLb0lCMNu1x9LZpjKRp5Iis9mnYEtgnic32FT7cFkNEV3Q4fzTR5d8z8x5S2JEBQi8EfKKzYgkB0earrol/s1600/dinos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNr2aJrDyxlAtSQEN_qP5DERPupkTLdPCppot3rMSmE9hlfpWuhI01gEYY3QCLb0lCMNu1x9LZpjKRp5Iis9mnYEtgnic32FT7cFkNEV3Q4fzTR5d8z8x5S2JEBQi8EfKKzYgkB0earrol/s200/dinos.jpg" width="150" /></a>For nearly six straight days I could not eat or drink or read or surf or walk the dog. This, my friends, amounts to one of the most horrible weeks I've had in quite some time. This body can run on lack of sleep, tight timelines and whirlwind activities. BUT, something got ahold of me, and I found it (I'm pretty sure) at a museum. On Family Day, I took the boy to his favorite museum, completely forgetting that the masses would be doing the same thing. Along came his girlfriend from down the street, and off we went to the virus infested, but beautiful Museum of Nature. Dinosaurs (the fave, of course), Insects, Arctic, Earth, and a 3D movie of underwater creatures kept us distracted from what was really going on. It was a blast for hours and hours...but something was creeping around inside that building, and it found me. The next day, I felt weird, and to put some context into it, I NEVER get taken down to the point where I can't do the everyday things that make this household and studio run. By Wednesday, I could barely get out of bed. I did, but only for short spurts, and for only what was absolutely necessary. I could not eat, I could not drink, everything was a chore. This went on for four more days, and it was the most intense body and head ache, coupled with a nagging cough and sniffles. Once out of the fog, and looking back, I realized how awful it was. This intruder, apparently, is running rampant this season, and according to my family physician, half the school poplulation has been home with it. Sadly, I took down my son with me, and he missed some school days .. the two of us, useless blobs in our beds. The good news is that it's done, the virus part, at least. There is still some lingering cough and sniffles, but that is easy peezy to deal with, in comparison. The boy is back at school and the orders (thanks for everyone's patience) are back on schedule.<br />
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For the most part, I missed the everyday creativity in the workshop, and I missed being in the kitchen. Those things inspire me everyday.<br />
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So, here's to a fresh start, virus free, yipee!Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-40212231190696547952012-02-14T16:08:00.000-08:002012-02-14T16:08:31.366-08:00Spread the Love!It's Valentine's Day! <br />
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However your day has been, as you tuck yourself in tonight, try to take a moment to reflect on the moments that make your heart beat with purpose. Love is so broad, that for every person, each heartbeat will reveal a different love story. It could be something as fleeting as a first kiss or as deep as a 70 year partnership; maybe that fleeting kiss lasted 70 years! <br />
It could simply be the love you have for your family and friends, or your pets, food, home or nature. Whatever it is, you deserve a moment to rekindle.<br />
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For my part, I got to spend last night making valentine's treats with my son, for his classmates. He's in grade one, so with every holiday comes that crazy, over the top, excitement, the kind of energy I'd like to bottle and store. Here's what we did, so you can do it now, or plan it for another day. It's simple, and an easy treat idea!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUn-MNgE3dW8almMg_9y1pdJRRSVtb5zUpLX3EvCj2KWBIpuigyISxgv5Ft90zCphHdAsjRDoUdSyCR-PyCg828TuKD4w30mYHbhbwHp1ycFvn6EGLl9IbRSuS5H7MHv6vSHBfQWiUGHI/s1600/sb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUn-MNgE3dW8almMg_9y1pdJRRSVtb5zUpLX3EvCj2KWBIpuigyISxgv5Ft90zCphHdAsjRDoUdSyCR-PyCg828TuKD4w30mYHbhbwHp1ycFvn6EGLl9IbRSuS5H7MHv6vSHBfQWiUGHI/s200/sb1.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Strawberry CheeseCake Bits and Bites<br />
[ingredients]<br />
Cream Cheese<br />
Icing Sugar<br />
Vanilla<br />
Strawberries <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_8b6daHgv1Z-C6gYcZFm_FRcjNN5RrMsiJSDU0E6MjbU4msMxTnOTpGJZ4k0XhyOhLKpWydIDE3-a3kvc7fR9mlEwZAyxSQKD8HeOKKwnA2eNvW1OS_eIT2Q7cQsts3Rp_vgNgM_yJ6w/s1600/sb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_8b6daHgv1Z-C6gYcZFm_FRcjNN5RrMsiJSDU0E6MjbU4msMxTnOTpGJZ4k0XhyOhLKpWydIDE3-a3kvc7fR9mlEwZAyxSQKD8HeOKKwnA2eNvW1OS_eIT2Q7cQsts3Rp_vgNgM_yJ6w/s200/sb2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
First off, we were lucky enough to find two for one strawberries at the grocery store. When we got home, I cut the tops off the good ones, and by good I mean large enough for a healthy bite, and put them in a strainer. Then we, (I should say he) scrubbed and washed them in cold water. While he was washing, I was whipping up a mixture of cream cheese, icing sugar and vanilla, to a beautiful, fluffy texture and to taste like cheesecake. This will totally be to your taste, but proportionally, about 4x as much cream cheese to icing sugar, and about 1 tsp of vanilla. After the rinse, I cut a circle out of the flat part, with a paring knife, making a small hole in the middle. While I was cutting (and eating the centres!), he crushed two graham crackers in a mortar and pestle, which he loves doing, right down to a fine set of crumbs. Then we stuffed one strawberry with the cheese mixture and sprinkled (or you can dab it) the graham crackers on top. Test. Repeat. Test. Oh, yeah, then we made 22 for his school mates. Luckily we had just enough strawberries left!.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DBClX8WwcPhm9_6UdfszqPJ9UebCfSI9Av_hRJ7I9WVSQTaCh9aj_8wmWQp9jWNLTi5wsCD1GxDy4psvazkNSvNYxZOFypb2kj6WokgizqJJbpkSvPxeCBSeDPKPJhOl2iATp_kLfOZl/s1600/sb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DBClX8WwcPhm9_6UdfszqPJ9UebCfSI9Av_hRJ7I9WVSQTaCh9aj_8wmWQp9jWNLTi5wsCD1GxDy4psvazkNSvNYxZOFypb2kj6WokgizqJJbpkSvPxeCBSeDPKPJhOl2iATp_kLfOZl/s200/sb3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Mmmmmmm. Love in a cheesy bite!<br />
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:: Insight, RB StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-86904736508713680702012-02-12T12:46:00.000-08:002012-02-12T12:46:54.999-08:00Sunday Scrumptous!<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qOp9f02UA0D6Ica4GRNO95uXaF2bbiJuTPSFByskSerLl7lumQKcNsaBXii5W3yfvmub4-FfZp5nvN26Pv1alNoyt8DPditSf1sskVxwzdJeDQQFkgMZ7VbZwJ1UEr0O_gi2OoPm-8vN/s1600/ss1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qOp9f02UA0D6Ica4GRNO95uXaF2bbiJuTPSFByskSerLl7lumQKcNsaBXii5W3yfvmub4-FfZp5nvN26Pv1alNoyt8DPditSf1sskVxwzdJeDQQFkgMZ7VbZwJ1UEr0O_gi2OoPm-8vN/s200/ss1.jpg" width="200" /></a>One of my favorite foods in the whole wide world is avacado. It is a <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/402176-avocados-almonds-as-super-foods/">super food</a>, and it is my super food. There is that moment of perfect ripeness where I can just eat it right out of the skin, buttery and delicious. It can be as simple as that, or mash it up with a teeny bit of sour cream and scoop it with blue corn chips for a midnight snack. I always put avacado in burritos, sushi and sandwiches, as long as I have some around. Recently, I found this great picture online for a grilled avacado sandwich, and while I tweaked the ingredients, the premise was the same. I think the type of bread is super important, so in my version, I had baked some cuban bread the day before, so I sliced a few pieces of it and buttered the outsides. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxGniNsmBL9HQyRCnyCx_B2Vz3tIZLiPk76pj95Ks2wCLoXkzbIr06T34VuDSGcfXEOoEZN3R4Y9VkAQ4g-ghEeNXEQaqD16yn3JHw1EZEExuPJE96BbDy9q9QOjAOHWmSr85fT9lk1Rr/s1600/ss2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxGniNsmBL9HQyRCnyCx_B2Vz3tIZLiPk76pj95Ks2wCLoXkzbIr06T34VuDSGcfXEOoEZN3R4Y9VkAQ4g-ghEeNXEQaqD16yn3JHw1EZEExuPJE96BbDy9q9QOjAOHWmSr85fT9lk1Rr/s200/ss2.jpg" width="200" /></a> Then I placed one, butter side down, on a warm fry pan. The fun part, building my sandwich...cheese first, use anything that's tasty, but quick melters are probably best. I've used gouda, mozarella, and marbled cheddar. Then a thin slice of salami, topped with ripe avacado and another thin layer of cheese. On top goes the second slice of bread, butter side up. With flipper in hand, pay attention to the grill, cause it warms the sandwich quickly on medium heat. Once the bottom starts to sear, and you can smell it, flip it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwfAzbs3vt4krzkpcMQ5zOU0nCBAU3tG5-c1kxappM5BX_rYNiacpiMV1y4lJOhkp8sAVumZG4SFsMUT4f-8n8nVgcB_b_XvV47E8_bJmWMVidIVdJ0fOcxkEdL1fdN9JGBSpKK9yBsHh/s1600/ss4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwfAzbs3vt4krzkpcMQ5zOU0nCBAU3tG5-c1kxappM5BX_rYNiacpiMV1y4lJOhkp8sAVumZG4SFsMUT4f-8n8nVgcB_b_XvV47E8_bJmWMVidIVdJ0fOcxkEdL1fdN9JGBSpKK9yBsHh/s200/ss4.jpg" width="200" /></a> Be careful not to lose your contents! Give it another few minutes on the other side, and again, do not leave your sandwich for any length of time. Any small distraction and you will have a burnt sandwich; in my case, I will still eat it, but it's not as pleasant as the perfectly grilled alternative. Here I complimented it with some split pea soup that I had made earlier in the week. Talk about comfort food ... heavenly.!</div>
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Insight :: RB Studio</div>
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<br />Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-27074033236016655492012-02-09T07:23:00.000-08:002012-02-09T07:23:47.257-08:00Fresh Paint!It's the time of year, as the cold penetrates our bones, where most families seek a warmer climate. I know alot of friends have been lucky enough to spend some of January or February travelling to all sorts of beaches, the warm, scenic and southern ones. While your family is travelling, are you ever worried about leaving your house vacant? Do you hire someone to watch it, or do you have friends and family peek in on your place while you're gone. What about your pets? Boarding or placed with the grandparents? But, I digress. This is really about a surprise. A room hi-jacking, if you will. For about three years, I have been entangled with a wonderful family. As an outside observer, I've watched as this family balances multiple sport schedules and family life with their generosity towards the needs of others. They are huge supporters of causes, and especially breastcancer.ca, which has had the audacity to strike them close to home. This, as you may be able to imagine, means nearly 23hrs of their day is devoted to others (and the obligatory function of work, of course), and I would be surprised if even that one hour left in the day, was a selfish one. Long ago, they hatched a plan to re-paint their house, give it a fresh palette, a touch of their own flair. And, over the course of a few years, they've talked alot about these dreams, especially in my ear, and with wistful sighs, how they would eventually get around to re-doing their own master suite into an oasis. Eventually they got around to painting a few rooms here and there, the kids rooms, the family room, the hallways. Each time a more important 'space' took precedence rather than their own. Now, don't get me wrong, they did get started on preparing the master suite, years ago, by removing some 100 year old wallpaper, but it was only partially removed. And, the last time I saw it, they were living in a style of wall paper shredded, blank wall bliss.! So, when last October, they told me about a trip they had planned for Cuba, a whole week in January with the family; kids and grandparents, an evil plan was conceived. A whole seven days to secretly transform their master suite that they'd been dreaming (talking) about for three years.! For months I waited and waited for my moment to pounce, and when finally the week came, it was the worst week possible in the Rustic Benches studio. The six-year old apprentice was sick, there were snow days, freezing rain days, cancelled school buses and a ton of orders to complete. Before I knew it, four of the seven days were gone! Finally the child got well enough to be in school, so I enlisted some help, and off we went to tackle the space. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfX8aG9Iu8uetdc76Fmpt-UViNZFrKCmuUL96nsT4OVQT8UI7AuOCy__G0U3wrmVVqDBawmtmfVmOsLRM-I5w1n5GQOoUbg9FG08sBe4Rh7TsWqfQBUewlhwAFIiG8AKJMZEloetYZAvd/s1600/paint1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfX8aG9Iu8uetdc76Fmpt-UViNZFrKCmuUL96nsT4OVQT8UI7AuOCy__G0U3wrmVVqDBawmtmfVmOsLRM-I5w1n5GQOoUbg9FG08sBe4Rh7TsWqfQBUewlhwAFIiG8AKJMZEloetYZAvd/s200/paint1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">almost a blank canvas</span></td></tr>
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The first day was dedicated to prepping; protecting furniture, getting everything out of the way, removing the shreds of wallpaper, taping, priming, vacuuming and planning colours. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQt2Mqi5xA3jsuJe_8H52Xzdp956q6uJs47hv3SixomuhuSQ8crUJa2vKVUBak1rSSN03A0Ow3wkeZOmL1rqIHSd0qO8FgO8mLHKTkD1Xlg4orx7n9Xi9qr_zA2eFbQbZCpH1__y5A5GCK/s1600/paint2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQt2Mqi5xA3jsuJe_8H52Xzdp956q6uJs47hv3SixomuhuSQ8crUJa2vKVUBak1rSSN03A0Ow3wkeZOmL1rqIHSd0qO8FgO8mLHKTkD1Xlg4orx7n9Xi9qr_zA2eFbQbZCpH1__y5A5GCK/s200/paint2.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">top color - cream</span></td></tr>
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The next days were spent painting multiple coats, adding new light switch/plug covers and cleaning up. By the time we were done, and even though it was a small space, it made a dramatic impact on the room. And, just in time too, we finished with barely hours to spare until they landed. <br />
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That evening, I went home, poured a glass of wine and waited to see if my phone would ring. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPmewi8Pul2r3c4x52EE4pgbMoSbsk_8oLSE4Id2EPW9kuZRq-WmBLXX5uw7gk_13-0USvxsGAaBLsA_9a7S2ddhjJomxJLNDruueovCwWqB41Z735fVt2T6UwEDyVWEQPA6yh8KiT0Yz/s1600/paint3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPmewi8Pul2r3c4x52EE4pgbMoSbsk_8oLSE4Id2EPW9kuZRq-WmBLXX5uw7gk_13-0USvxsGAaBLsA_9a7S2ddhjJomxJLNDruueovCwWqB41Z735fVt2T6UwEDyVWEQPA6yh8KiT0Yz/s200/paint3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">bottom color - chocolate</span></td></tr>
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And, ring it did!<br />
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:: Insight, RB Studio.Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-42146531601751632782012-02-06T18:49:00.000-08:002012-02-06T18:50:50.218-08:00Soup 'ER Sunday!Most of the hype in North America yesterday, was either about the NFL or Madonna and the 46th Super Bowl. Neither of which I saw live. I did see the highlights of the NY Giants pulling off yet another upset win over the better team (on paper, at least), New England Patriots .. and there weren't any declared 'malfunctions' in Madonna's creative halftime spectacle (as long as you aren't counting MIA's obscene gesture). So, what was I doing that was soooo important as to miss what 111.3 million people on this planet were tuned in to, you ask? Well, I was making and doing stuff, of course.!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">#6 White</span></td></tr>
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<u><b><i>The doing</i></b></u> :: driving my son across this great land for his timbits hockey game. Literally four hours of my day was devoted to packing, driving, dressing, watching, picture taking, undressing, return driving and unpacking the boy and his gear.<br />
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A smile and a big win (7-2), sure made it worth it.<br />
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<u><b><i>The making</i></b></u> :: super sunday sushi snacks! This time I made Avacado, California and Smoked Salmon Dynamite rolls. Again, the big smile was just the perfect reward for the effort.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJLzJG23dRhlrzON5UZhk4K5-owEMCIDQb0szt2bv7GmoFryu7X-f0xp9nwfjl_qfRLDziyo0U-zXXZjgsHabu_yGQSWXY9Y3EuZ0wygPc4vzJhnvt7IAwfWvxS3jZw0rovxGbuudy_ox/s1600/sushi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJLzJG23dRhlrzON5UZhk4K5-owEMCIDQb0szt2bv7GmoFryu7X-f0xp9nwfjl_qfRLDziyo0U-zXXZjgsHabu_yGQSWXY9Y3EuZ0wygPc4vzJhnvt7IAwfWvxS3jZw0rovxGbuudy_ox/s200/sushi1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0NVRyabya8VepQkisyGLoxeFeOvpIQGg4VrUamA6WiT6VyYZKXylwSOZBYfmBQJYcPFxp6VkKXOTVabRNMpIKFyQK-3K33rJCMzkhtw5vCI2Z5s7HmkAnJ8-LbVY6WUBqB_NsFa0TuEw_/s1600/sushi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0NVRyabya8VepQkisyGLoxeFeOvpIQGg4VrUamA6WiT6VyYZKXylwSOZBYfmBQJYcPFxp6VkKXOTVabRNMpIKFyQK-3K33rJCMzkhtw5vCI2Z5s7HmkAnJ8-LbVY6WUBqB_NsFa0TuEw_/s200/sushi2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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That was our Super Roll Sunday!<br />
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Insight :: the RB studioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-53690708507980811452012-01-29T08:56:00.000-08:002012-01-29T08:56:05.957-08:00Sunday Soup! I promised.<br />
I did promise to throw this easy recipe out there, so here it is!. The title sounds devine, the array of ingredients sounds overwhelming, but it really is a simple soup. The combination of light broth with hearty bites makes this a studio favorite, with most any kind of bread. So bake some and make some; ...this is true comfort food for wintry days!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzv11q2td-tSFxbzOnznowdcSgxla4FJJS98bInc1dr7iio0IaiDE0o4bSdJI1HJsyx-2sJZx-RQ_l1yJh7ye1TiN9q2iFFsw4VWUVXQdGsIsvDmX_kubeGCoSfIVv0UrxrBC8OyIkhx6t/s1600/soup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzv11q2td-tSFxbzOnznowdcSgxla4FJJS98bInc1dr7iio0IaiDE0o4bSdJI1HJsyx-2sJZx-RQ_l1yJh7ye1TiN9q2iFFsw4VWUVXQdGsIsvDmX_kubeGCoSfIVv0UrxrBC8OyIkhx6t/s200/soup2.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtRzVUQSWkNwIjQA6XGdGaDIy_4ZSoCyKx75Usgr_m8Ux-UW6RfcayojMQGP1M1cEKwzm88xepUVP1dIg74VlSeYa3-my7isDRlwcTTlZgbKFzuMb-IgvnPeUkHKGp7fJEaupqphO2PBi/s1600/soup3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtRzVUQSWkNwIjQA6XGdGaDIy_4ZSoCyKx75Usgr_m8Ux-UW6RfcayojMQGP1M1cEKwzm88xepUVP1dIg74VlSeYa3-my7isDRlwcTTlZgbKFzuMb-IgvnPeUkHKGp7fJEaupqphO2PBi/s200/soup3.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chorizo, kale and winter bean!</span></i></span>
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2 tbsp olive
oil
<br />1/2 cup bacon,
chopped
<br />1 medium onion finely
diced
<br />3 large carrots roughly
chopped
<br />4 pork chorizo sausages sliced into 1 inch chunks (get the cured Spanish
chorizo, not the raw Mexican
type)
<br />1/2 cup sherry (i used red
wine :-)
<br />1 tsp sweet
paprika
<br />1/2 tsp smoked
paprika
<br />1 tbsp tomato
paste
<br />fresh ground
pepper
<br />4 cups chicken stock
<br />1 28 oz can of tomatoes,
diced
<br />16 oz can of navy beans,
rinsed
<br />1 bunch of kale (i used half the head, washed it, cut it into big
bite
sizes)
<br />1/4 cup italian parsley roughly
chopped
<br />
<br />-In a large saucepan, heat oil and saute bacon until lightly browned.
Remove from pot, set aside.
<br />-Add chopped onion and saute until softened and golden brown. Remove and
reserve.
<br />-If needed, add more oil, add chorizo to pan and saute for 2-3 minutes
until lightly browned. Remove from pan and
reserve.
<br />-Deglaze pan with sherry or red wine, gently removing brown bits from
bottom of pan with wooden spoon. These are the tasty
bits!
<br />-return onion and bacon to
pot.
<br />-add chopped carrot and stir in both paprika's, pepper and tomato paste.
Cook this for two minutes before adding canned tomatoes and chicken stock.
<br />-Bring soup to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cook until carrots are
just tender, about 15 minutes.
<br />-Finally add the reserved chorizo and any accumulated juices to the pot,
along with parsley, navy beans and chopped kale.
<br />-gently simmer for another 10 minutes to heat through.
<br />-EAT!
<br />
<br />We kept it in the pot in fridge all week and kept heating it up. Was
delish!!
<br />
<br />
</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1P3z6shR-POxwj8l08RFsfOdqn-tymKZLaSJir6gp6WwSOKdju6oP2aOs9bl4bITEvto7rmhe6Iwi3RdHju53FjOrPvrqL21abdptmi4PlpBho5fUeyCwd2Q-2FcoO2se4cMXelLR-1v/s1600/soup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1P3z6shR-POxwj8l08RFsfOdqn-tymKZLaSJir6gp6WwSOKdju6oP2aOs9bl4bITEvto7rmhe6Iwi3RdHju53FjOrPvrqL21abdptmi4PlpBho5fUeyCwd2Q-2FcoO2se4cMXelLR-1v/s320/soup1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">with some Cuban bread for dippin'</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Rustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-84332204888399601982012-01-27T15:23:00.000-08:002012-01-27T15:23:17.384-08:00Fresh Food!Working out of your home requires a different kind of organization than the usual commuter. Having done the 9 to 5 grind for many, many years, it took some time to come up with a formula that would mimick a professional work setting, but, obviously, in a casual environment. From organizing a schedule that includes a set work day, a few mind mandatory breaks, and ensuring that meals aren't being skipped, BUT then, you're at home, so there is always tackling the : cleaning, the walks with the four-legged creatures, the activities of the two-legged creatures, the shopping, and bill-paying, and SHOVELing, and, and, and, ALL IN between the real "work". Well, <i>"efficiency"</i> is my middle name. Not really, but, let's just pretend it is. So, when something new adds time to my 24 hour day, I have to speak up. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfMdBX5CLaHSbMJRBxIQPuemPex57wCKyXC8tmnC0GhyINE6TwiKKjpPS-gp6ksc6RDwjIdkkFdyzkOzHEpIZTjEPNoz9Ks-ctmokGpQvggzQ6MX0OzUEzQiBwZ7SSdl3non_svLEgQ2a/s1600/fsaver1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfMdBX5CLaHSbMJRBxIQPuemPex57wCKyXC8tmnC0GhyINE6TwiKKjpPS-gp6ksc6RDwjIdkkFdyzkOzHEpIZTjEPNoz9Ks-ctmokGpQvggzQ6MX0OzUEzQiBwZ7SSdl3non_svLEgQ2a/s200/fsaver1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">snow day, warm fire!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This past Christmas this household received a gift called the "FoodSaver". Immediately, I took notice. Two of my favorite things : <b>food</b> and <b>saving</b>! I had an inkling as to what it was, but I still mildly doubted the pretty box and all the wonderful things this machine claimed to do. The test would be : how was it in action, in our kitchen, with our food? <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4o0vqgqdQe_nVcIMJhGK4u_4Juqzh_WPWNkaIInl0J1cCmh7OoccY7kd6vzxspm1UhAT017Sk9UybOgqWepzk1Va3eld2Vh1dIYsWS9YW_5bidWVeegU4qZUkYf__MQK_LNh2Wqvd7H2/s1600/fsaver2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4o0vqgqdQe_nVcIMJhGK4u_4Juqzh_WPWNkaIInl0J1cCmh7OoccY7kd6vzxspm1UhAT017Sk9UybOgqWepzk1Va3eld2Vh1dIYsWS9YW_5bidWVeegU4qZUkYf__MQK_LNh2Wqvd7H2/s200/fsaver2.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">using his Java kitchen bench</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, we took it to task. Our last grocery run was a bulk run and so I pulled out the machine and enlisted the help of the six year old apprentice. After a few instructions, and a little extra help - he was merrily sealing and vacuuming every bag I filled. Now, his little six year old hands did have some difficulty pressing down the lever that closes the unit, but true to his nature, he kept at it until he got it. And, nailing down the right size bag took some trial and error, but, what a marvelous machine, cut the bags, seal one end, then suck the air out, and seal the other end. The best part, without all the extra air, it eliminates that dreaded freezer burn. And, it didn't take us very much time to package all the sausages, chicken thighs and ground beef in one shot. <br />
<br />
So, I can definitely recommend that if you like to freeze items, especially in the winter, like I do, this is the way to go. Gift or purchased, it is worth the investment : this has proved to be a big time '<i>saver</i>' around here.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJWaATgw-1UGBY3iWB592YpZPn5Su51cFKnuutqLrLQGXCWph9pcBgemKURRjtk5_i2TfjTryRndbMWBK6HuVKHPFpUsk_KVa4KO39SBIfK0d9CQ3XyJ8rzx6wFDoMByY0RKmrqiF3wZd/s1600/fsaver3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJWaATgw-1UGBY3iWB592YpZPn5Su51cFKnuutqLrLQGXCWph9pcBgemKURRjtk5_i2TfjTryRndbMWBK6HuVKHPFpUsk_KVa4KO39SBIfK0d9CQ3XyJ8rzx6wFDoMByY0RKmrqiF3wZd/s200/fsaver3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(no promotional consideration was given by Foodsaver to the author for this recommendation. purely my opinion and experience)</span><br />
<br />
:: insight, RB StudioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461371904731349185.post-69424122023404968902012-01-23T15:46:00.000-08:002012-01-23T15:46:46.215-08:00Inside Job!The new head of Quality Control, Pet Feeder division has settled in quite nicely, and has even been instrumental in some of the new designs for 2012. Earlier this week I caught him hard a work, thinking and thinking and thinking ... <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuHdt8S3luCprv36f30hcporWeVCiTpLNrZser138OL6_zgML9o3wI2gpZEhW4BVJv3p2j1qiF_foY7KwakNSj5XDBeYsYV_FbOLgdjDW7jfdDU5Zzw47lFptrxuE3SlUPb0b7MNcdMU2/s1600/dreaming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuHdt8S3luCprv36f30hcporWeVCiTpLNrZser138OL6_zgML9o3wI2gpZEhW4BVJv3p2j1qiF_foY7KwakNSj5XDBeYsYV_FbOLgdjDW7jfdDU5Zzw47lFptrxuE3SlUPb0b7MNcdMU2/s200/dreaming.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">zzzzzzzz!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizY9iTBA40p6-TWnGnqzhAQ9C7A-92PH3BMFujfUqYyjC4CbtHaeZ4Leqg_BUR72YcmM3y2cv7gNUsek7ieTmCub-OBsoaPGKsde_lBxlqeMnXEM7N-nRkMHmDkwtw1VHfW-a0yr_bAVG9/s1600/begrudgingly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizY9iTBA40p6-TWnGnqzhAQ9C7A-92PH3BMFujfUqYyjC4CbtHaeZ4Leqg_BUR72YcmM3y2cv7gNUsek7ieTmCub-OBsoaPGKsde_lBxlqeMnXEM7N-nRkMHmDkwtw1VHfW-a0yr_bAVG9/s200/begrudgingly.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pffft!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Since he was putting so much effort into it, I thought, maybe I could put some brain cells toward the effort too. So, I went into the shop and had a look at some cut-offs of wood and a cute little design started to take shape. A little hammering, pounding, screwing and glueing, added some color, two shiny new bowls and voila! I was ready to present my creation to him. <i>"Hey Sonney, I want to take your picture with the new pet feeder, okay?"</i> I gave him a few minutes to get his bearings .. and then....begrudgingly he got up for the photo shoot. And, then right back down again! It seems that he was so worn out from all his duties that he<i><b> just.didn't.have.the.energy.</b></i><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDVCV2Ef3oM2dAdc24bbw_Dot32OwUMI-a8sV6Rb1CXcUPaapz3OHxj4WEbb6QD5L97pupp7tK7fuUnPt7E7zpVifsp9a-FKS7RX_3_mQX7psQ_QVpC4qEpjbT8v83staI62zSLazWyOd/s1600/giveup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDVCV2Ef3oM2dAdc24bbw_Dot32OwUMI-a8sV6Rb1CXcUPaapz3OHxj4WEbb6QD5L97pupp7tK7fuUnPt7E7zpVifsp9a-FKS7RX_3_mQX7psQ_QVpC4qEpjbT8v83staI62zSLazWyOd/s200/giveup.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looks great, can I eat UNDER it?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, in the end, the new Pet Feeder stands alone. It was approved by the new head of the department, and, maybe next time he'll have the energy to participate!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8_g98KHWtN-986fY-6zaW0RhaCdIW26Vo-4xshKeg72F7hyPFuW0hKjGJDGz7aZVz0Y-4aFVxEkxSvrITXLmHBNtOOgTHNe1JIJvpOPpnMgR-rwsUtmJ0lh2zA0TY18Fbvf0vnlL-jGQ/s1600/newfeed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8_g98KHWtN-986fY-6zaW0RhaCdIW26Vo-4xshKeg72F7hyPFuW0hKjGJDGz7aZVz0Y-4aFVxEkxSvrITXLmHBNtOOgTHNe1JIJvpOPpnMgR-rwsUtmJ0lh2zA0TY18Fbvf0vnlL-jGQ/s320/newfeed.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8" Pet Feeder in Medium Brown</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />See : <a href="http://www.okwari.ca/rpet.html">http://www.okwari.ca/rpet.html</a> for awesome examples for your family pet!<br />
<br />
:: insight, RB studioRustic Bencheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08318972877296951971noreply@blogger.com0