tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8440577862103730152024-03-12T22:32:43.603-07:00The Bookish Baker To me a recipe is like a good book with a great ending. Every recipe tells a story. These are my stories and the recipes that have made my life a little bit sweeter.TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-29624919945344587482019-09-19T05:36:00.000-07:002019-09-19T05:36:40.591-07:00Can't go over it, can't go under it...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji76JHWqH4eKVGNHPa54ROdTkV_v9UMIAQ-BDdl-X3aPxEdUO6EqFboWD3jQT-GOWbHiDW9RwkSjCUpD8Gct0r-1OKGbeYZOQvWEEvXrCMnm9B809umRUb0hKFy_CJ_efBL6Z014mgA-hV/s1600/48364341_10156782535359898_8163579854315323392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji76JHWqH4eKVGNHPa54ROdTkV_v9UMIAQ-BDdl-X3aPxEdUO6EqFboWD3jQT-GOWbHiDW9RwkSjCUpD8Gct0r-1OKGbeYZOQvWEEvXrCMnm9B809umRUb0hKFy_CJ_efBL6Z014mgA-hV/s1600/48364341_10156782535359898_8163579854315323392_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="color: #660000;"> </span><span style="color: #990000;"> Today marks the three year anniversary of my brother's death. His death, and that of my other two siblings, has shaped me and confounded me. It is said that time heals all wounds. While this may be true for some, I feel that the wounds caused by grief are an anomaly.</span></span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">"Grief is lonely, no matter how many other people feel it. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">They are different, each one, because we've lost different people, different versions of the same men.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"> We are each carrying our own load, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">and it is ours alone to bear."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">~Nora McInerny Purmort</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"> It's Okay to Laugh</i></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> I once read that grief is chaos. There is no program to follow, no set of rules laid out, no timeline for recovery. It is akin to a hamster wheel that one must run on for the rest of their life. There is no closure. No moving on. Rather, it is something that seeps into us and becomes a part of our being. Grief has its curses, but also has its blessings.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> Our greatest teachers often come in the form of difficult times; painful experiences, devastating illnesses, tragic accidents. Seeing these unpleasant times in our lives as teachers with valuable lessons won't make them easier to bear, but knowing that there is something to be learned from what is happening may help us move forward through it. Each one of us has things we need to learn and we all have different teachers. Each lesson makes us more brave, more resilient and, believe it or not, more grateful.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"I am creating my own path through my own grief, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">toward my own version of happiness."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~Nora McInerny Purmort</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i>It's Okay to Laugh</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Though it is easier said than done, we should be thankful for all of the places in our lives that feel uncomfortable or even painful. These feelings can, and should be, used as catalysts for change in our lives. When you come to see them as such, you can see how everything has a purpose (I will not resort to using my <i>least</i> favourite saying, everything happens for a reason). </span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> When a loved one dies, we must love ourselves enough to begin again. To not live as if we are dead, but to live as if we are truly alive. It is essential to remember that each day is an enormous gift meant for us to be able to begin anew; to start over with each sunrise. And if it happens to be a bad day, we need to give ourselves permission rest as the sun sets, knowing that the sun will come up again tomorrow and we will be given yet another new chance.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> I am making a conscious effort to find gratitude along my path. It is not a linear journey and oftentimes, not an easy one. It begins with a single step in the right direction. I believe I am on my way and I do not walk alone. </span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WOzyqQsdMNK5Ebs6wR4KyDEc9IR_6Xc9JLxKlYATuTroQ-lcqXREoYOLHbOv7dS-yAK9Tms5DOXdEC8a260ZOE-peZB3wFhmgFJYm6jSumN9C-baRWggFhznZ982xlndJCBqsNlgLQ1R/s1600/The-best-way-out-is-always-through.-Robert-Frost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="691" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WOzyqQsdMNK5Ebs6wR4KyDEc9IR_6Xc9JLxKlYATuTroQ-lcqXREoYOLHbOv7dS-yAK9Tms5DOXdEC8a260ZOE-peZB3wFhmgFJYm6jSumN9C-baRWggFhznZ982xlndJCBqsNlgLQ1R/s320/The-best-way-out-is-always-through.-Robert-Frost.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: "merriweather" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #191a1a; font-family: "noto serif" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 19.2px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: "merriweather" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #191a1a; font-family: "noto serif" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 19.2px;"><br /></span></span>TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-85662030948876707752019-07-31T08:47:00.000-07:002019-07-31T08:47:14.740-07:00Writing a New Chapter...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWockkRlXiOd_3IQ8FlYNkaUztXZUdDbT7tiM2p7mzd2mXII6CQ5LjALPNzx6HLkF2_vBDZwJNI3QLG7EuZQ6PDvuZIVZxYAvQ7Ygcnru5a2eWysqOa03_MS4ro6z84Z44K9-bnA70BnH/s1600/IMG_E4233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1138" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWockkRlXiOd_3IQ8FlYNkaUztXZUdDbT7tiM2p7mzd2mXII6CQ5LjALPNzx6HLkF2_vBDZwJNI3QLG7EuZQ6PDvuZIVZxYAvQ7Ygcnru5a2eWysqOa03_MS4ro6z84Z44K9-bnA70BnH/s320/IMG_E4233.JPG" width="227" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> This past weekend I had a milestone birthday. I turned 50 years old. It truly is a decade that I am going to celebrate as it is one that has been denied to my siblings. I am going to embrace it rather than deny it. I have learned that there is a correlation between the choices that we make and the wisdom that we gain.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">~ Robert Frost</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span class="authorOrTitle" style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> My 40's were tumultuous. I went through several life shifts, more than I thought I could bear. I discovered that I had a disease that will wreak havoc on my immune system for the rest of my life. I lost a career that I loved very unexpectedly. I went back to University at the age of 43. I explored employment fields that were out of my comfort zone. I found a job that I adored only to be locked out and forced to strike for 8 grueling months in all weather conditions. I lost my third sibling to an unexpected tragedy. I spiraled into depression. It was a decade full of uncertainty and despair. I am ready to leave it behind, but as difficult as those years were, they gave birth to my voice. They allowed me to find the tools to build and create a more fulfilling life so that in turning 50, I am ready to embrace instead of deny. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> As I enter this new decade I reflect on all the wisdom that has transpired through these life events, the choices made and what I've learned from those choices. I have learned that it is the moments that matter. The small things in life are so valuable and precious. It is so very important to express love and gratitude. In life you cannot take anything for granted. I truly believe that the struggles I faced in my forties forced me to find the tools to heal and have allowed me to create a new chapter in my story. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> The rest is still unwritten.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPOh52UtTxh4F3uiaNvpsuPSkihEmqCPDbcImONV88eJFR6B3VFa-M50t-9zCrLwmlv5ibNFqMYfnT9-uJakG1hpzGmYdd3eWYp78GnJuUASM4VyLb8gHKeNfL8yvfokmthZ22_F0_rF1/s1600/IMG_4232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="683" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPOh52UtTxh4F3uiaNvpsuPSkihEmqCPDbcImONV88eJFR6B3VFa-M50t-9zCrLwmlv5ibNFqMYfnT9-uJakG1hpzGmYdd3eWYp78GnJuUASM4VyLb8gHKeNfL8yvfokmthZ22_F0_rF1/s320/IMG_4232.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-35471836692980527902018-09-19T08:25:00.001-07:002019-09-25T08:48:10.983-07:00A Rose By Any Other Name...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">"I know not how to tell thee who I am."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">~William Shakespeare</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"> </span><span style="color: #990000;">There is no word to describe what you are, or who you have become, after the loss of a sibling. If you lose a spouse you are a widow or a widower. If you lose your parents you become an orphan. But if you lose a sibling, or, as it is in my case, all three of your siblings, you just become the girl who's brother died. The poor girl who's sister passed away. The woman who tragically lost all three of her siblings. There is no word in the English language to describe my loss and often times I struggle to find the words to express how I feel. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUczz-V2xafeqHoumrkYiHRdjZGyX1TQgmQzQiTWs8UITWDRVzzaK7rHVRSYy5UqOfAVVzbz-2rq9SCENbeYlB2naNomwl4yx4H12wgQ_2QBE3HSBIut-2G40-hJPnMFlOnC5Nj2zp_Cz/s1600/e18fc1e1f4a1bf2f4fc073d3ec393d71.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUczz-V2xafeqHoumrkYiHRdjZGyX1TQgmQzQiTWs8UITWDRVzzaK7rHVRSYy5UqOfAVVzbz-2rq9SCENbeYlB2naNomwl4yx4H12wgQ_2QBE3HSBIut-2G40-hJPnMFlOnC5Nj2zp_Cz/s1600/e18fc1e1f4a1bf2f4fc073d3ec393d71.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000;"> In many ways, siblings experience a double loss; the loss of their sister or brother and the loss of their parents. Surviving children do not only lose a sibling, they also lose the mother and father they once knew. Everything changes. I know this from experience. Though I'm sure my parents did the best that they could after my oldest brother died tragically at the age of 18, our whole family was changed forever. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<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/AVvXsEhLLz2FqimY_sAUecLCLyI2cr2flVM6oqetUz_Pz_5xuE8QxaBGK3v4LO9mbXiHNdh3kdIp3ZU8_2mH6W0vlhgZqsVB7bORxSrcXv0-v0ubjFng3Z-uQRO3_EMJA8_tVU72mR2_R2zssL7r/s1600/IMG_8294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1229" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLz2FqimY_sAUecLCLyI2cr2flVM6oqetUz_Pz_5xuE8QxaBGK3v4LO9mbXiHNdh3kdIp3ZU8_2mH6W0vlhgZqsVB7bORxSrcXv0-v0ubjFng3Z-uQRO3_EMJA8_tVU72mR2_R2zssL7r/s320/IMG_8294.jpg" width="245" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: small;">One of the few photos of my brother Bryan and I.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: #660000;"> </span> </span><span style="color: #990000;">I was only six years old when my brother Bryan died. I was the youngest of four. My sister Lynn was 20, my brother Scot was 14. They grew up with a completely different set of parents than I had. Growing up, I often heard the phrase <i>"BC"</i> which stood for <i>"Before Cathi."</i> It was often used when stories were told about family trips, activities and traditions. Fun times. Happy times. Times that I didn't experience. As a child, I thought this to be funny. As an adult I came to realize that the phrase wasn't so much "BC" but more so <i>"AB~After Bryan."</i> I had missed out on</span><span style="color: #990000;"> how outgoing and adventurous my parents once were. My childhood was entirely different than that of my siblings.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that I had a terrible childhood or a disadvantaged youth. If anything, I was spoiled. What my parents weren't able to give me emotionally they gave me financially. I didn't want for anything. Except that I did. The emotional separation from my parents during my formative years profoundly influenced my life. Just as it had completely changed our family. Experiencing death as a child becomes a lifelong experience of processing and understanding the loss, and all of the changes that come with it. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><span style="color: #990000;"> I have experienced the death of two different siblings, at two diverse times in my life, and in two contrasting sets of circumstances. Though I was only young when my oldest brother died accidentally, I was 36 when my sister died of breast cancer. While these two death experiences were entirely different, they impacted my family and me in immeasurable ways. My understanding and reaction to these deaths contrasted greatly. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<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/AVvXsEgjt4H31vFUL3HkKHRSd3FA34cr16mqNJ0bJK2a_ibJc39j6lsWTCiXB0hnt_PkN7K7E_Syxh9FTBcH5xmN-yyKws2gc2kuXiE2Hb_lqwBXKSKDU3ZZbOb2Flo4zpOHS1mNMmTX_ltIbOxM/s1600/IMG_8278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1214" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjt4H31vFUL3HkKHRSd3FA34cr16mqNJ0bJK2a_ibJc39j6lsWTCiXB0hnt_PkN7K7E_Syxh9FTBcH5xmN-yyKws2gc2kuXiE2Hb_lqwBXKSKDU3ZZbOb2Flo4zpOHS1mNMmTX_ltIbOxM/s320/IMG_8278.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: small;">My sister Lynn on her 40th birthday.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> </span><span style="color: #990000;">As much as I mourned for, and missed my sister, I still felt sorrier for my parents, for her husband, for her two young boys, for everyone but me. I thought, <i>"I'm just the sibling," </i> their grief was, and should be, more profound than mine. I put on a brave face. I grew up with grief. I knew the role I had to play. I had to be the strong one. I had to be there for my parents, who had now lost two of their four children. I was now married with children of my own. I couldn't imagine how I would ever manage or cope with the death of one of my own children, let alone two. My parents were suffering and it was tragic to see. My grief had to take to the sidelines.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> On September 19th, 2016, two years ago today, tragedy struck my family yet again. My brother Scot, the only surviving sibling I had, died due to complications from surgery. Ironically, he had fought and beat cancer just five years earlier. Another devastating blow to our family. He was 54 years old. Husband and father of four. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<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/AVvXsEixQn2yxrUKG2_uyGGV4ut28LHSyiQmxwu3QXteAYcJKG3yRP1yJRwCnZjfnrBa1P7a-GTmRpcTpZfnyg0YAkdo14vjnKJXc7ovjbhuHXv_NeF18e11XavqPk9ihb49Lw8NuKpxyOPd1tIP/s1600/PicCollage+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQn2yxrUKG2_uyGGV4ut28LHSyiQmxwu3QXteAYcJKG3yRP1yJRwCnZjfnrBa1P7a-GTmRpcTpZfnyg0YAkdo14vjnKJXc7ovjbhuHXv_NeF18e11XavqPk9ihb49Lw8NuKpxyOPd1tIP/s1600/PicCollage+%25282%2529.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: small;">My favourite picture of Scot.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> The death of my only remaining sibling hit me hard. Harder than the other two had. It was an extremely difficult time in my life. How could I remain strong in the face of this unexpected tragedy? I felt like I didn't deserve to feel so shattered, especially in the shadow of my parents' immeasurable loss. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> My brother was the co-keeper of my childhood. The only one who could relate to what we went through as a family. He was the only other person who knew what it was like to grow up with our parents, in our home. His death had me feeling so much more than grief. I could think of only the hard times ahead. Of the times when my brother wouldn't be by my side. When my parents began to age and needed care, or when they themselves died. I was confused and I was angry. Scot's death was something I could not come to terms with. Because of this, I knew that I could no longer be the strong one. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> Being the bookish person that I am, I sought answers in the form of a book. Sadly, I discovered that there were more books on losing a pet than on losing a sibling. A handful of books existed for surviving children after a death in the family, but they were geared toward young children. Many books dealt with losing a parent, a child or a spouse. There was no handbook for me. No resource or information on how to heal myself and come to terms with my varied emotions. This time, I needed to ask for help. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> For the first time in my life, I sought council and began seeing a therapist. I realize now, that I should have done this long ago. I have been given tools to help me become better, not bitter. I have been shown how to accept my feelings, deal with survivor's guilt and reduce my anxieties over what will happen next. I have learned to be more mindful and, of all things, grateful. I have learned that I will never <i>"get over"</i> the loss of my siblings. I must instead move on and through. I have created a wonderful life for myself in spite of the missing pieces in my life. Perhaps I am even strong like those well meaning mourners at my brother's funeral asked me to be for my parents. They are now aged 89 and 90. Their health is failing as is their will. I am their only living child. It is a role that I did no want but can not change. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> My siblings have left my life, but not my heart. Today, on the second anniversary of Scot's death, I pay tribute to all three of my siblings in a way that he would have loved. I got a tattoo.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyNbXHMz5Cbd4aOgRfbhScc87wV2Qm6vnnNmXrfYQpInHg3xqBsYsxh-waMKn37IPT621hVwIfRj7u5K8K20on49rFoLRUj4P0FjOW3jpwflLBQN5V4sD7pq7Fnnmry9EpVRV7GoqybHk/s1600/IMG_8323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyNbXHMz5Cbd4aOgRfbhScc87wV2Qm6vnnNmXrfYQpInHg3xqBsYsxh-waMKn37IPT621hVwIfRj7u5K8K20on49rFoLRUj4P0FjOW3jpwflLBQN5V4sD7pq7Fnnmry9EpVRV7GoqybHk/s320/IMG_8323.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Scot had several and <i>never</i> would he have believed that I too, would adorn my body with one. It is totally not me, but somehow it is truly fitting. The semicolon indicates a pause in a sentence. It is not an ending, rather a sign that my story continues. Each of the birds symbolizes one of my siblings; Bryan, Lynn and Scot. They are no longer with me, but they remain a part of my story. Though sometimes I feel as if I were, I am not alone. I will do my very best to live on for them with love and gratitude on my journey.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WHW_0cCSHlH4lzvAUEVg8_qZpUtNQyxxyGdolIKofQVGTnr39_ZD_p8GEAlusjuicAawYhIXkFmJwQcpGxAu_dgx2RLETk2Dow9_QIO4Wua5dsTFq4TmNhtVPBiGs9IlaGaIYGaVYYdR/s1600/IMG_8329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WHW_0cCSHlH4lzvAUEVg8_qZpUtNQyxxyGdolIKofQVGTnr39_ZD_p8GEAlusjuicAawYhIXkFmJwQcpGxAu_dgx2RLETk2Dow9_QIO4Wua5dsTFq4TmNhtVPBiGs9IlaGaIYGaVYYdR/s320/IMG_8329.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gHZFPuiQJJ_pAV1VdyuvUV4DxA4rQbZ7opaRIQHnP1wWJOqTELRh2rQjsLkw31ajTFTrkHbPhT9k_cvIjGYQAW5kXQUM8TwwZCFwNhDoHR8AO_7jYoY00aMbD0DrjVfKirDcuWfdtkSG/s1600/5fb6690b82b8df198b1b588cfd857c06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gHZFPuiQJJ_pAV1VdyuvUV4DxA4rQbZ7opaRIQHnP1wWJOqTELRh2rQjsLkw31ajTFTrkHbPhT9k_cvIjGYQAW5kXQUM8TwwZCFwNhDoHR8AO_7jYoY00aMbD0DrjVfKirDcuWfdtkSG/s320/5fb6690b82b8df198b1b588cfd857c06.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; margin-bottom: 24px; min-height: 0px; min-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.5em;">
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.5em;">
<div style="font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-40819646348093097762018-04-11T20:03:00.001-07:002018-04-12T07:23:37.296-07:00Tiny Happy Things...<span style="color: #660000;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOQc2-_Lw-pWqrq3T7wzF2kz4M6lbYfMTSTPZ58TgrVSybNkslF0rDSAyhyphenhyphenaEB-7daX1xgyDznGHjxopTRyKfPGycDbkpjb5iEWBDquiQEIZLkU6U3NzFNZN1oZjXIUaA0vWEEWx-glbw-/s1600/f3371b7346e267e3a86c739274aebe13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="458" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOQc2-_Lw-pWqrq3T7wzF2kz4M6lbYfMTSTPZ58TgrVSybNkslF0rDSAyhyphenhyphenaEB-7daX1xgyDznGHjxopTRyKfPGycDbkpjb5iEWBDquiQEIZLkU6U3NzFNZN1oZjXIUaA0vWEEWx-glbw-/s320/f3371b7346e267e3a86c739274aebe13.jpg" width="256" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> A few things have happened in the past weeks to make me once again reflect on life. Sadly, as has been the norm, they are not positive things. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> One thing I know for sure, to steal one of Oprah's catch phrases, is that life is too short. Too short for negativity, too short for what ifs, too short for regret. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> When I lost my job at the school board, I thought that it was a terrible thing. I didn't recognize at the time, that it was merely a turning point. I took a year to wallow in self pity. Then, at the age of 43, I reinvented myself and went back to University. It was the beginning of my reinvention. Not only did I become a teacher, I subsequently became a baker and a high end jewelry sales person (which made me realize that I was never cut out for sales). I worked hard at jobs that I didn't necessarily like, but they were a means to an end. I took the fork in the road, not sure of where it would lead.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Finally, I was rehired in a field that I had come to love, in a place that felt like home. I've been there just shy of four years, but have experienced a few bumps in the road. I still love my job, I always will, but life has taught me that it is just that. My job. There are good days and bad days, but I choose to focus on the good. I love my job. I'm so happy to have it. I refuse to let the negativity that surrounds it seep into my life.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Instead, I choose to focus on the good. To use the much quoted phrase, Carpe Diem (yes, Rick, I think of you each time I say it or hear it). I choose to do that which makes me and my family happy. Because in the end, that is what matters. That is what will be remembered.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Yesterday was "National Siblings Day." A Hallmark holiday I know, but seeing all of the posts on Facebook of the happy siblings made me miss mine. Made me long for what never was and what could have been. Not one of my three siblings lived past the age of 54. I am soon to be 49. As I reflect on that I can't help but wonder, why should I out live any of them? What if I only have five short years, or even less, left to live? What if we did indeed live like the song says, like we were dying? </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> When I think in terms like that, I realize that negativity and petty disappointments have no room in my head. Instead, I choose to focus only on the good. Even when it snows in April, summer always follows. The sun continues to rise each and every day. I choose to make the most of every opportunity. I'm going to watch reality television with wild abandon. I'm going to read trashy gossip magazines (and not just pretend to peruse the headlines in the line up at the grocery store). I'm going to knit and read until my heart's content. Yes, there will still be bad days, but when they come, I will allow myself to eat dessert first.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> I am becoming increasingly more aware of what is really worth my energy. Perhaps that is something that comes with age and not wisdom. Whatever it is, I owe it to my siblings to find out. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVxkPG7XpEZoSWHa2OfLR4dmO3X0SysLkZigJHiBV_vEKMSGenEsAebP1dAYpj8D_z-IaO-aNJY9lM5h_aQW6rJjHwrHQjrP1dt8QIzYWWjTIFKrpL85o-05yzEiT35ebFvpk1coYio-h/s1600/22996cc2050e4f5dd6aa921e152e8fe7+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVxkPG7XpEZoSWHa2OfLR4dmO3X0SysLkZigJHiBV_vEKMSGenEsAebP1dAYpj8D_z-IaO-aNJY9lM5h_aQW6rJjHwrHQjrP1dt8QIzYWWjTIFKrpL85o-05yzEiT35ebFvpk1coYio-h/s320/22996cc2050e4f5dd6aa921e152e8fe7+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-51420358674442840782018-02-11T15:16:00.001-08:002018-02-11T15:16:54.860-08:00Stranger things...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #660000;">A week ago today I did something that may have put me into the </span><span style="color: #e06666;"><i>"Crazy Cat Lady"</i> </span></span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">category. It was not only erratic behaviour on my part but, to some extent, it was quite treacherous. The irony of it all is that the journey began because of this blog. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life is strange and the universe works in mysterious ways. Of that, I have no doubt.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> A week ago, the woman from the rescue organization where we adopted Sophie reached out to me. She had read my post about Luigi and that began my madcap adventure. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> To make an incredibly unbelievable story short, I drove several hours through this...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EFJMEMqFunWapdLhBggaRzAiz5e41lWYWzr1Chnayc1QdgMcFAENx9eLIRpzw-sB_A8e3Hm0bAZBlXc6oZDnxJs89026ctVG1CLcQ_NDPUN4qjfLXA8g1k2yFZ3PBRjOBLZ_n9EnGbT7/s1600/IMG_5217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="1600" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EFJMEMqFunWapdLhBggaRzAiz5e41lWYWzr1Chnayc1QdgMcFAENx9eLIRpzw-sB_A8e3Hm0bAZBlXc6oZDnxJs89026ctVG1CLcQ_NDPUN4qjfLXA8g1k2yFZ3PBRjOBLZ_n9EnGbT7/s320/IMG_5217.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHiSd3jcIb4ruQTuwkWBw9ZDrl5C2sPZLDpPULnsPP7nxijZGhHmdfTS1ieJmAtGfZ9uoeSd3eqqakFU4J1YXI-1Q6VyaYkXYKlweBnkZMYZlutuVBs4CQaezxCnxf334U-uDD4AkdiMhs/s1600/IMG_5218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHiSd3jcIb4ruQTuwkWBw9ZDrl5C2sPZLDpPULnsPP7nxijZGhHmdfTS1ieJmAtGfZ9uoeSd3eqqakFU4J1YXI-1Q6VyaYkXYKlweBnkZMYZlutuVBs4CQaezxCnxf334U-uDD4AkdiMhs/s320/IMG_5218.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ended up here...</span></div>
<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/AVvXsEigLZeJtBVzJzyON9FZoOQl7rl_FmIrFURTnx1lopeqg7dcD7RiBnymaH7U21jQnK20UVtS127SbYRHYZ3pxEmsTsvlUZykjywlwjVPRPJAo25JcS49jBq3GKTi60ODd1Sq91LLOljUmYyL/s1600/IMG_5219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="1600" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLZeJtBVzJzyON9FZoOQl7rl_FmIrFURTnx1lopeqg7dcD7RiBnymaH7U21jQnK20UVtS127SbYRHYZ3pxEmsTsvlUZykjywlwjVPRPJAo25JcS49jBq3GKTi60ODd1Sq91LLOljUmYyL/s320/IMG_5219.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #660000; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">Lucknow is a community<br /> located in Bruce County, Ontario</span><span style="color: #e06666;"> (population <b style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">1,121</b><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">)</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Met up with someone in the parking lot of the</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Lucknow Library....</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(I told you this story was unbelievable!)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11unb74AxkWjcPVfHgwYyiLXh_WPqq27fzCIvekvA593-0ZJ7r9gQaAdOp9SULSY5nxQ9ywHxKXUuKQ0g0dQ0H1H1AP82xPfljxi66Bp2ddQZawKlFUWLvyhFhfYauy7hO9YFxt1VLIy0/s1600/IMG_5220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1600" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11unb74AxkWjcPVfHgwYyiLXh_WPqq27fzCIvekvA593-0ZJ7r9gQaAdOp9SULSY5nxQ9ywHxKXUuKQ0g0dQ0H1H1AP82xPfljxi66Bp2ddQZawKlFUWLvyhFhfYauy7hO9YFxt1VLIy0/s320/IMG_5220.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And came home with this...</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9fGGipfXqH5hVnrpRTknGt38TECu4TzfPbpdzZ5q5FqoMdZOhd7hfmKwMEa7PfhALbQ7NJHdGeUSLrxAogFljVIlzmPPtwCfIyE3XSFkRR9Lf8M9Bs64Bt6VvtQoEESV79j8JQhfY8h_/s1600/IMG_5253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1103" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9fGGipfXqH5hVnrpRTknGt38TECu4TzfPbpdzZ5q5FqoMdZOhd7hfmKwMEa7PfhALbQ7NJHdGeUSLrxAogFljVIlzmPPtwCfIyE3XSFkRR9Lf8M9Bs64Bt6VvtQoEESV79j8JQhfY8h_/s320/IMG_5253.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">His story is almost as unbelievable as my journey. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> At just a few weeks old, he was found tangled in a hockey net. He was abandoned by his mother and siblings and was close to starvation when he was cut out and rescued. This photo was taken shortly after he was taken in...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge167WhMZkt2kLRvh13mDdUQthvL9DcDyQcugtCjZNgur4OWAnOxIkYCYoXE_7JEzFYTaBs767hsMftRXXGyzk2xX57obb_Z8YrvrjSONRE89myLNKzbQePjc5LxOtiXORJIGzUozmZfn7/s1600/IMG_5167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge167WhMZkt2kLRvh13mDdUQthvL9DcDyQcugtCjZNgur4OWAnOxIkYCYoXE_7JEzFYTaBs767hsMftRXXGyzk2xX57obb_Z8YrvrjSONRE89myLNKzbQePjc5LxOtiXORJIGzUozmZfn7/s1600/IMG_5167.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The woman from the rescue organization, whose name is Kathi </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(I know, right?)</span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, nursed him back to health and brought him to the Pet Value in Kincardine. He had been there since January 3rd with no applicants for adoption when she messaged me. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxxEd8_sSn0w12lSszEFFLWz1L4ftbNE0WEEKsEHfDzv9bHtpAjPZYJ2XgL50075TZ0Bws1kJIkABDPA_bpSlUYRfTXRjStxgzDjsDOQNt4lrC_Au2p7Q9Qy2RuYdr6g9Gq34utOwZFMj/s1600/IMG_5147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxxEd8_sSn0w12lSszEFFLWz1L4ftbNE0WEEKsEHfDzv9bHtpAjPZYJ2XgL50075TZ0Bws1kJIkABDPA_bpSlUYRfTXRjStxgzDjsDOQNt4lrC_Au2p7Q9Qy2RuYdr6g9Gq34utOwZFMj/s320/IMG_5147.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cPoimUVfXcLyoVcmYYYxiLQogDfRddCvU0P_h4nHn6B3bO45k48m3TratB4QbK07ZOrsyKmXtWORK5OyvhY15slwJMFGZgj3UyXptqT8DamIK6KUEmtb97aBWfni0csXws9-c_tHavm0/s1600/IMG_5142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="639" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cPoimUVfXcLyoVcmYYYxiLQogDfRddCvU0P_h4nHn6B3bO45k48m3TratB4QbK07ZOrsyKmXtWORK5OyvhY15slwJMFGZgj3UyXptqT8DamIK6KUEmtb97aBWfni0csXws9-c_tHavm0/s320/IMG_5142.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #660000;">As fate would have it, I was headed up to</span><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-style: italic;"> "Carpe Diem" </span><span style="color: #660000;">for a weekend of family, friendship and fun (there might have been wine also, because, let's face it, all good stories involve alcohol).</span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5luG8HISzEWWv2R37sNG8VSQgGuiRvpSlmkPBiY4MDKmJar6otaZF-4NKidWquYrvXsmcm4S4HaOTvRwiJ345SfotFLzsQr01iLMCZiwHoSG8Bh3s0QjuDHZ3MNbtIRr7_IAzSX3L90K/s1600/IMG_5215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1600" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5luG8HISzEWWv2R37sNG8VSQgGuiRvpSlmkPBiY4MDKmJar6otaZF-4NKidWquYrvXsmcm4S4HaOTvRwiJ345SfotFLzsQr01iLMCZiwHoSG8Bh3s0QjuDHZ3MNbtIRr7_IAzSX3L90K/s320/IMG_5215.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> No one in their right mind would agree to drive three and a half hours in a snow storm to get a cat, but how could I say no when I was already more than half way there? So, in spite of the snow which had been relentlessly falling all through the night, I woke up last Sunday morning at the cottage and started the trek to pick this little fellow up and bring him home to become a part of our family. I had to pull over a few times to gather my wits and get my bearings, but I made it (thanks to my guardian angels, who would all agree that I have lost my marbles but know all too well that life much too short for things like snowstorms to get in the way of a great adventure). </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> We arrived back home, safe and sound, just before dark and in time for the Super Bowl festivities. Betting on who would win the coin toss and whether or not the first commercial would be for food or beverage took to the sidelines as we tried to come up with just the right name for our new family member. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIvBF-M96ZyPc-MMDyipCSnxfirXJCimFbOi_93FIlWPngFPo4PFNlGz0Llz7PV2LRBhoBZaMzvgULHKSWEZGVkXPh4GZrJgzZW4728iJt40QCnoW8EqvxcMBpQwd0hiAQ7IpEUqLifvE/s1600/IMG_5230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIvBF-M96ZyPc-MMDyipCSnxfirXJCimFbOi_93FIlWPngFPo4PFNlGz0Llz7PV2LRBhoBZaMzvgULHKSWEZGVkXPh4GZrJgzZW4728iJt40QCnoW8EqvxcMBpQwd0hiAQ7IpEUqLifvE/s320/IMG_5230.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">His name is Stanley and he has made himself at home.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_2XEsJohdf1PWfxjJcJ8YaAO269Jg3kujG4UIqj24PY7_pcXRqqTn9LnXEaHqiHLSx_P_Y1sx7FwI4jH_ekUPnC0FqrQxO6jvyPZ9HABZsMr0sT6Dg5MMzhzz9AOHQfBzc8Ypjd4hRHJ/s1600/IMG_5271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_2XEsJohdf1PWfxjJcJ8YaAO269Jg3kujG4UIqj24PY7_pcXRqqTn9LnXEaHqiHLSx_P_Y1sx7FwI4jH_ekUPnC0FqrQxO6jvyPZ9HABZsMr0sT6Dg5MMzhzz9AOHQfBzc8Ypjd4hRHJ/s320/IMG_5271.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> </span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">"Animals are the bridge between us and the beauty of all that is natural. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">They show us what's missing in our lives,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> and how to love ourselves</span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "proxima nova", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> more completely and unconditionally. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">They connect us back to who we are, and to the purpose of why we're here."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">~ Trisha McCagh</span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-85490767380516193752018-01-12T11:49:00.001-08:002018-01-12T11:49:53.484-08:00Luigi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">"What greater gift than the love of a cat." ~ Charles Dickens</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; text-align: start;">Yesterday we said goodbye to a dear and treasured member of our family.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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/AVvXsEhYcLhgHZ7Ro7GuWvw9T4V_b_bq34Qb8QFekYjmhSZgA9gQr5e2CLc9KGQ82h0MYRXLPo5sOoy_qspU0s565NwTi0ujYdZZR8boEJpB5ur24OJmuJS4yd1iFDJ3BKOyro-HyqoktsqVHjx3/s1600/215130_10150152026004898_674314897_6382636_7926408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYcLhgHZ7Ro7GuWvw9T4V_b_bq34Qb8QFekYjmhSZgA9gQr5e2CLc9KGQ82h0MYRXLPo5sOoy_qspU0s565NwTi0ujYdZZR8boEJpB5ur24OJmuJS4yd1iFDJ3BKOyro-HyqoktsqVHjx3/s320/215130_10150152026004898_674314897_6382636_7926408_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luigi nestled in a box in our neighbour's garage, April 2011.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Luigi came into our lives just when he was needed the most. A stray, he seemingly appeared out of nowhere and followed my neighbours home from a walk. From that day on he managed to secure a place in my heart and in our lives. My husband, who was never a lover of cats, allowed Luigi into our home and he immediately became a part of our family.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Relegated to the basement upon first arriving (that didn't last long) my kids created a warm and inviting space for him. He was their first pet and Luigi had many lessons to teach them.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<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/AVvXsEhBNDwElYuLq3y8ew0zpckL_QPh7grtEJZC9yk-cLL3WTFSCoKKgw8qbAaXPvEowqiaf5meinroxIocjq-4C2ZMhpTe752u9g-f9HJCzElIKpHCEQEQJmz1VE0OucesYRzPf03V-bmX0OWq/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1107" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNDwElYuLq3y8ew0zpckL_QPh7grtEJZC9yk-cLL3WTFSCoKKgw8qbAaXPvEowqiaf5meinroxIocjq-4C2ZMhpTe752u9g-f9HJCzElIKpHCEQEQJmz1VE0OucesYRzPf03V-bmX0OWq/s320/028.JPG" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luigi's first night in our home.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="color: #660000;"> <span style="font-size: small;"> It didn't take much time for Luigi to become a treasured member of our family. Before long, we couldn't have imagined our lives without him. He was a great comfort, a happy distraction and the perfect companion. He showed up for family meals, first day of school photo shoots and was always there to welcome you at the door. He greeted us in the morning with a soulful hello and a head bump. He settled in with us in the evenings while we watched our favourite shows, purring all the while in someone's lap. And no matter where he was in the house, he'd come running when he heard the rustle of the cereal box in the off chance that he'd be rewarded with the remnants of milk in your bowl. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0irg1R0pCIwE9cPEW_ULX3abfddHwKACMYDQkR4PvneYIhOE7TlSBf7scBIx_CSP-L85d7t5fMz-V4dNv60bUrGGWKUXmCACzrolaX4grEFia3evgSzcX6W7ztEro3P9m6I7AVHbWeFB/s1600/Snow+Day%2521+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0irg1R0pCIwE9cPEW_ULX3abfddHwKACMYDQkR4PvneYIhOE7TlSBf7scBIx_CSP-L85d7t5fMz-V4dNv60bUrGGWKUXmCACzrolaX4grEFia3evgSzcX6W7ztEro3P9m6I7AVHbWeFB/s320/Snow+Day%2521+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScAslTGj5IYRdDF3EAPxT65rUB8PGPEyWN-X5OyNJt_YHDtIkzmx2wN1K15dPPvEO7gTeABtCi6abNEFqcyx4dck0RapF_cDQR8JHD-AfpF6S1qrktRCvWVi7Q1EjedanT9ZGobepUcBq/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScAslTGj5IYRdDF3EAPxT65rUB8PGPEyWN-X5OyNJt_YHDtIkzmx2wN1K15dPPvEO7gTeABtCi6abNEFqcyx4dck0RapF_cDQR8JHD-AfpF6S1qrktRCvWVi7Q1EjedanT9ZGobepUcBq/s320/025.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6PzljqF7eGj7MdjMgXJwTSuwvBSuLWMsOf8u3BV8pr5uZZLzYZWacWcHOXk47aDp9sNDqIZ626aySnd1FuCOUjbiicKlT-CrTk-h0bsqJBolCF2QGHDaUNt_khgZWgnOhIMyTYGQnqwI/s1600/227295_10150185471169898_674314897_6687295_2598944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="619" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6PzljqF7eGj7MdjMgXJwTSuwvBSuLWMsOf8u3BV8pr5uZZLzYZWacWcHOXk47aDp9sNDqIZ626aySnd1FuCOUjbiicKlT-CrTk-h0bsqJBolCF2QGHDaUNt_khgZWgnOhIMyTYGQnqwI/s320/227295_10150185471169898_674314897_6687295_2598944_n.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> From the start, it was evident that Luigi was a special cat. His arrival was timed perfectly with the loss of my job as an elementary school librarian. It was a job that I had loved dearly and I was blindsided by the loss of it. I found myself lost without a job to go to each day. My husband and kids were wonderful, but they went off to work and school leaving me to wander aimless and without purpose around our house. It would become obvious later on that Luigi came into my life just when I needed him most. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">"It takes a cat to heal a woman's wounded heart." ~ Esther Child</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> He intuitively knew where he was needed. He had a way of changing the energy in the house. Instead of being sad and moping I became transformed by his presence. He made me smile and when I needed comfort he was there to purr in my lap. Luigi was a constant companion as I struggled to find my path again. He seemed to have the ability to change my negative energy into something peaceful and calming. </span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">"A cat can make you feel well rested when you're tired or turn a rage into a calm just by sitting on your lap. His very nearness is a healing song." ~ Shannon Hale</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifayYDto0zTG1nXG4ZCzUTQeNUqeq2U0VLd2ElNO8_t3EPEpV9-nnbqNehsSWe0zzJ3IFlKlWzkurZsLo3D65JSlfDZVSdH6JirBeqzblg5eYE5P6Gkn7jr-H2eN4ErzpyrLrXr0cKIm7M/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifayYDto0zTG1nXG4ZCzUTQeNUqeq2U0VLd2ElNO8_t3EPEpV9-nnbqNehsSWe0zzJ3IFlKlWzkurZsLo3D65JSlfDZVSdH6JirBeqzblg5eYE5P6Gkn7jr-H2eN4ErzpyrLrXr0cKIm7M/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7A5u8vzXdkWh76VAu74n8L9CpsI_8MdZOi6N_f4aDhDzT-xHV19et3kUShiM4Hgr9KdHYdAlpQu7mCgNTGmLo6TICstTSU9OKHv1CJ2k313WYFTZuu1PGiLDhCgJkkFGJN0xOg3pkuTMe/s1600/IMG_4500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7A5u8vzXdkWh76VAu74n8L9CpsI_8MdZOi6N_f4aDhDzT-xHV19et3kUShiM4Hgr9KdHYdAlpQu7mCgNTGmLo6TICstTSU9OKHv1CJ2k313WYFTZuu1PGiLDhCgJkkFGJN0xOg3pkuTMe/s320/IMG_4500.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"> After taking a year to feel sorry for myself, I decided to go back to school. In 2012, at the age of 43, I was accepted into the Faculty of Education. It was a year of self discovery and growth and as one can see from the pictures below, Luigi was my constant adviser. He helped me find my path again and always knew when his support was needed.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1U_zMnBz16lVlYrE6VwyLuDSaz-r7RjBB3jJfuAappooLDNhpKccKC_FW48RSquKHUzs3ELrxX56EIKXauIIno9b1qYxLpPHB2c-OMjQ4eTEL1Szqu_0ZczX_ROR-dWIhbvEjscoXquc/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1U_zMnBz16lVlYrE6VwyLuDSaz-r7RjBB3jJfuAappooLDNhpKccKC_FW48RSquKHUzs3ELrxX56EIKXauIIno9b1qYxLpPHB2c-OMjQ4eTEL1Szqu_0ZczX_ROR-dWIhbvEjscoXquc/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fl-kNy67Qba9oXWRpnxfMVLXAr0WfL8Y6mChS7t6Rcr0S6S0o44ob-50dFRNWcK2WHfyYHJqhiUg8cnvEhWHrdFPDsa1VFWYd7ALMwXA4bzlJpBCMUnF85tYOrMWafOSTRb0ANP6a7jM/s1600/Placement+Nov.+2012+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1174" data-original-width="1600" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fl-kNy67Qba9oXWRpnxfMVLXAr0WfL8Y6mChS7t6Rcr0S6S0o44ob-50dFRNWcK2WHfyYHJqhiUg8cnvEhWHrdFPDsa1VFWYd7ALMwXA4bzlJpBCMUnF85tYOrMWafOSTRb0ANP6a7jM/s320/Placement+Nov.+2012+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Though Luigi wasn't the most active cat, he preferred lounging in a patch of sun or laying in a lap, he was known to provide some comic relief around our house. He loved to help you open presents, fold laundry and take out the recycling. Curiosity was one of his many adorable character traits. He taught my children empathy and unconditional love.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAucvrFxPUW0hiuK3v0uC2LwQDjVKO4blVerSRUZkTGvPKobtyrHmHxfIRzR-wN2AcS5pW0sYAkr2bYjp1DT9jbGTtLuULPBVPZofkY_fDM_LPVl6fRVGYle6nVJ2BXgRtEfeezmRsWVq4/s1600/luigi+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAucvrFxPUW0hiuK3v0uC2LwQDjVKO4blVerSRUZkTGvPKobtyrHmHxfIRzR-wN2AcS5pW0sYAkr2bYjp1DT9jbGTtLuULPBVPZofkY_fDM_LPVl6fRVGYle6nVJ2BXgRtEfeezmRsWVq4/s320/luigi+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxf4TZsPRcZsbg1wnzj3RlVDtlDem6i8ALhRdQc6iCCtITy6xDEKyI40YR25DLlfqtsTMezEMtQlAtssBgFDy34FbOQGvkHly4Y-BoVHIsEh1hqVZr0-82yxgTWjN77LuG95hCPU7od7q/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxf4TZsPRcZsbg1wnzj3RlVDtlDem6i8ALhRdQc6iCCtITy6xDEKyI40YR25DLlfqtsTMezEMtQlAtssBgFDy34FbOQGvkHly4Y-BoVHIsEh1hqVZr0-82yxgTWjN77LuG95hCPU7od7q/s320/010.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWKmrPFK2_-iLvm-WMwona-pCKPOZg2ry-7EcyLjgojqcfmZ1XHZJVaGg-Od1rZjlDtQry40RhlzftfKxbYzkExHecqTOj7HWr2T39rcWITl5QDG4O69XlIPFK2C7IJjtn6jXkAe7OkAs/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWKmrPFK2_-iLvm-WMwona-pCKPOZg2ry-7EcyLjgojqcfmZ1XHZJVaGg-Od1rZjlDtQry40RhlzftfKxbYzkExHecqTOj7HWr2T39rcWITl5QDG4O69XlIPFK2C7IJjtn6jXkAe7OkAs/s320/014.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUbdda72UMPaizcnaCES8iG_No2_G8ZXAQv-mKiTWvaBqAji8yX7c49qL_JTDTGlnV42cUyBCF9azix5yxCspztOSdv0OU3F-kpSmZM9C91-oJ-PcVcAVk7jPXJIV_Hce_m91O90c-VUV/s1600/IMG_5054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUbdda72UMPaizcnaCES8iG_No2_G8ZXAQv-mKiTWvaBqAji8yX7c49qL_JTDTGlnV42cUyBCF9azix5yxCspztOSdv0OU3F-kpSmZM9C91-oJ-PcVcAVk7jPXJIV_Hce_m91O90c-VUV/s1600/IMG_5054.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Ybbt02JcCr1rxqOhA49Gg36fThpb3JztEsS_y1c7DyGi1StIPviQ7YumKtaJiXkmz-rnhb6R9paKkRP7VCTPuUnLjMcUpnUyxvyQLZ6rbMsIjw6mB2aiC9Wkg4lUVF1tn46HFpEAcuAz/s1600/IMG_5056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Ybbt02JcCr1rxqOhA49Gg36fThpb3JztEsS_y1c7DyGi1StIPviQ7YumKtaJiXkmz-rnhb6R9paKkRP7VCTPuUnLjMcUpnUyxvyQLZ6rbMsIjw6mB2aiC9Wkg4lUVF1tn46HFpEAcuAz/s320/IMG_5056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> Luigi was best known for his cuddling abilities. On mornings when I didn't have anything pressing to get up for he was the worst influence. Often keeping me pinned in my bed for longer than was appropriate for a wife and mother of three. He seemed to put things into perspective. Napping was an essential part of daily life and it was better when it was a shared activity. He would often lay on the kids until their legs went numb. No one wanted to get up and disturb his resting spot, or perhaps they just enjoyed his company enough to make the sacrifice. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCkCt3S4A1Dz6BlCPo-oS5mMVjOKCIxvi78I-bM2c1WxvHujZv3_T21zNS3wnJ5M6_7Pf3-lJ5bzXMD8ipBF504wi3SUGOx6x034YzdAWT7v1jEFoUAw5rjbhVLrbdqzBS1jEzRyP0Giy/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCkCt3S4A1Dz6BlCPo-oS5mMVjOKCIxvi78I-bM2c1WxvHujZv3_T21zNS3wnJ5M6_7Pf3-lJ5bzXMD8ipBF504wi3SUGOx6x034YzdAWT7v1jEFoUAw5rjbhVLrbdqzBS1jEzRyP0Giy/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7ZNjXU78uOvgHH-FBo44kprc2smUURAt16diR_OL2qwm4WVP-lsU9F7MrcDSslLAUgc0-sTnrBv6PEZ3cuoVHgxjR1dRAB0I0YTgMEVJQSNAOhvmjTMoUxlWJrLtC-C6xpxeqzRBI2VG/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1600" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7ZNjXU78uOvgHH-FBo44kprc2smUURAt16diR_OL2qwm4WVP-lsU9F7MrcDSslLAUgc0-sTnrBv6PEZ3cuoVHgxjR1dRAB0I0YTgMEVJQSNAOhvmjTMoUxlWJrLtC-C6xpxeqzRBI2VG/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzPbOP7trdvj6bupO8J3g94b3OF5y2CGy3Lo6CG4A2_ROXNZvMHFQKGujW7REKENArEl-LuE28OVYwu0cnvxBUI_8c82c7z51DpxigFjKYEhNcJv5ufOwkO4zs3QQpmDPH7c3yO0QS0HY/s1600/Napping+Buddies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzPbOP7trdvj6bupO8J3g94b3OF5y2CGy3Lo6CG4A2_ROXNZvMHFQKGujW7REKENArEl-LuE28OVYwu0cnvxBUI_8c82c7z51DpxigFjKYEhNcJv5ufOwkO4zs3QQpmDPH7c3yO0QS0HY/s320/Napping+Buddies.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUx41p5G3UOvrtAg6peqAmfUzVrN5Wb9zt-Xv96WCKYpExyGP6MinNXeyzxS9PnxoWe8I685Gx4WYnyfJFKOU26vZcYOorYr3holV0NJTCaI7B78wmw-Of7jSn07hA_oEnNDxzymndvLCx/s1600/IMG_4851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUx41p5G3UOvrtAg6peqAmfUzVrN5Wb9zt-Xv96WCKYpExyGP6MinNXeyzxS9PnxoWe8I685Gx4WYnyfJFKOU26vZcYOorYr3holV0NJTCaI7B78wmw-Of7jSn07hA_oEnNDxzymndvLCx/s320/IMG_4851.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5U-y4kvR6RIPC1GgSVWAUuSKSk3m7t_NrN9DGctT2uf53ypV8JDzMaQpcqYOj1Qemul0gywyiuq8DPn37Pl-Fpnz-P2SB0yqQa-TukcsHRmWVsSI-lSAOT8z8YRTYvQYy1hsFzy_3xSe/s1600/IMG_5057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5U-y4kvR6RIPC1GgSVWAUuSKSk3m7t_NrN9DGctT2uf53ypV8JDzMaQpcqYOj1Qemul0gywyiuq8DPn37Pl-Fpnz-P2SB0yqQa-TukcsHRmWVsSI-lSAOT8z8YRTYvQYy1hsFzy_3xSe/s320/IMG_5057.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohiuZXanj3zA35q76_gILamhK6VDNl4Adz3pZUfekJNUJwgQ1cH2hMVviaKbEi4iGJIdCwAfhMQ9ntMHGVxyJeDEMInPXdo5ncDz4XNQ5CXXs9X2fi0Sgi0Gnss5I1_t3_Y2zBPGy8acX/s1600/IMG_5044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohiuZXanj3zA35q76_gILamhK6VDNl4Adz3pZUfekJNUJwgQ1cH2hMVviaKbEi4iGJIdCwAfhMQ9ntMHGVxyJeDEMInPXdo5ncDz4XNQ5CXXs9X2fi0Sgi0Gnss5I1_t3_Y2zBPGy8acX/s320/IMG_5044.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Through the years, Luigi and his comforting ways would come to touch us all. Personally, he saw me through many of my most trying and difficult times. While I once again found employment in a field that I love, politics veered me off my path for a grueling eight month period. During this time I found myself pushed to the brink and my limits were tested. At the end of a long and tedious day of walking a picket line Luigi was there to comfort me and my sore feet. He honestly seemed to know right where he was needed and when. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-8NEKFp_M93E6JbZvpZdjUq6-2GLfoE2rNLwBbrNziV8FRXkZp3qH0D_esjRPiO8_6OXc-UUKpKwUpXLyX9uaZABmFUB5GV7UHDy3iOJ76ugm9zT8jdMuh2UsPqcVsjhmHD13S540t1rq/s1600/IMG_5051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-8NEKFp_M93E6JbZvpZdjUq6-2GLfoE2rNLwBbrNziV8FRXkZp3qH0D_esjRPiO8_6OXc-UUKpKwUpXLyX9uaZABmFUB5GV7UHDy3iOJ76ugm9zT8jdMuh2UsPqcVsjhmHD13S540t1rq/s320/IMG_5051.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVgPuIhrb8G-ZEUjRAmSQd9DW_wNc8XphBcJS2R4_eOhUWXQBpbvY8i-CATcRmQBg06h42kXARHwhffae8_a7v3iflhUhlEMMuB1dFJE49RHWYPGLe9VOHnGHtFdTKiQ3MYeDi-TrIxks/s1600/IMG_5052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVgPuIhrb8G-ZEUjRAmSQd9DW_wNc8XphBcJS2R4_eOhUWXQBpbvY8i-CATcRmQBg06h42kXARHwhffae8_a7v3iflhUhlEMMuB1dFJE49RHWYPGLe9VOHnGHtFdTKiQ3MYeDi-TrIxks/s320/IMG_5052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZa2DEtKTxoJD_kl6PQcngAMfWVm1qEMC4w63b4hAXmrWjyr_W5bdYNZxEH939UDhkrWamWWd8OhVmz_RP2DK5GmLfksYtUXIYOVPHm-YAK8J5WNUSknXSaCENMLITvSr5ocyTTIAaKF9d/s1600/IMG_5053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZa2DEtKTxoJD_kl6PQcngAMfWVm1qEMC4w63b4hAXmrWjyr_W5bdYNZxEH939UDhkrWamWWd8OhVmz_RP2DK5GmLfksYtUXIYOVPHm-YAK8J5WNUSknXSaCENMLITvSr5ocyTTIAaKF9d/s320/IMG_5053.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> As if being on strike wasn't difficult enough, I also lost my brother during this time. Predeceased by my other two older siblings, this was a loss that came unexpectedly and hard. There were days when I felt that I just could not go on to bear another thing. I fell into a dark and deep depression that pushed away many of my closest friends. Sometimes I felt like I would never smile again. Yet somehow, the love of my family and this special cat brought me out from the depths of my despair. I honestly don't know what I would have done without him and the support of my family. Together they helped me once again find my happy place, at home with them.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjp2lmzMlqrcMdEcYJzXIeEyZQkOtel6GGHowN3aG81LHvljG4kxj94sHPgak4DaSLBO75jLplfixOSuQw2aSTXNKnzJw0aw1L_hxkf_yjGbCd_qscyeDmFgekqcIUNORbbnnOT3IvvrCh/s1600/IMG_5055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1103" data-original-width="1600" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjp2lmzMlqrcMdEcYJzXIeEyZQkOtel6GGHowN3aG81LHvljG4kxj94sHPgak4DaSLBO75jLplfixOSuQw2aSTXNKnzJw0aw1L_hxkf_yjGbCd_qscyeDmFgekqcIUNORbbnnOT3IvvrCh/s320/IMG_5055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> After the loss of my brother, we decided to adopt a rescue dog. We knew the love and companionship an animal could bring into our lives and we were ready to open our hearts once again. Unannounced to Luigi, Sophie arrived in September of 2016. Upon her arrival she brought with her a bit of chaos and, for a time, turned our household upside down. Throughout the transition, Luigi remained unfazed. He didn't mind the dog and the dog didn't mind him. While they were never ones to cuddle and interact, they cohabited and shared the love our family had to give them. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<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/AVvXsEiZKNANVjEXSZiszy34oQti1A3G30FyEf3g3ZQMYyOTYKZlAZt_uO-MKKV1CZLDaxutF3psJ3J2GBDKCNcl2N1JZjLIuWMevQ4Bj2G2NV2WzT2Tn1OiYp9a_A9Qzq7XXkXlFtDQ1pDLygt3/s1600/IMG_5050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="960" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKNANVjEXSZiszy34oQti1A3G30FyEf3g3ZQMYyOTYKZlAZt_uO-MKKV1CZLDaxutF3psJ3J2GBDKCNcl2N1JZjLIuWMevQ4Bj2G2NV2WzT2Tn1OiYp9a_A9Qzq7XXkXlFtDQ1pDLygt3/s320/IMG_5050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They loved to watch me make supper every night.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/AVvXsEjqlAU6HkSW44nwJbTLrPyt-MmC4S3WXpLlQaiJypa8bfLqriEJGFqoHUPmxqcO2hrDgnRCcwWW9yS4DXowdksKGn8yeHhgKHtWP78wUfKEz7HWcORagjHnaQgQ5Xv8Ygr27Hx9ORFL1l-D/s1600/IMG_5049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="784" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqlAU6HkSW44nwJbTLrPyt-MmC4S3WXpLlQaiJypa8bfLqriEJGFqoHUPmxqcO2hrDgnRCcwWW9yS4DXowdksKGn8yeHhgKHtWP78wUfKEz7HWcORagjHnaQgQ5Xv8Ygr27Hx9ORFL1l-D/s320/IMG_5049.JPG" width="261" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I do believe that Luigi was the boss of this relationship.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000;"> We were blessed to have Luigi in our lives for just short of 7 wonderful years. In those years he brought us so much and gave me comfort and strength when I absolutely needed it the most. He was a cat like no other and will forever remain in our hearts. As we said our goodbyes yesterday our hearts were broken. Mine is heavy as I write this, but I know that I will carry him with me always. He was that special and we loved him with all of our hearts. We absolutely did.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgSIRXQkFQy3Dmw1pLgeRfC7Myeue93FVNb1JPZGg7coe9Sp3YNakNSZwlI8bUz2PHjJKg3PftUoA_GiKVhSU8bsLFF3LrHaICAGv7wkrHqgkrPRJI4ijvZ0oagsiwNDAoPT5vabJomZr/s1600/066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgSIRXQkFQy3Dmw1pLgeRfC7Myeue93FVNb1JPZGg7coe9Sp3YNakNSZwlI8bUz2PHjJKg3PftUoA_GiKVhSU8bsLFF3LrHaICAGv7wkrHqgkrPRJI4ijvZ0oagsiwNDAoPT5vabJomZr/s320/066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-5895806650738567382017-09-28T16:42:00.000-07:002017-09-28T16:42:01.237-07:00Choosing Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5Do2eC078BqYW0_W6Cgz7FHcluv9kx4KmeoCk91aP25kV6nQ3BnrcSbmiIDRScILM08LiE2cp9kPE-DALg7EtEN0OstenxlzGk0AulbWkLKxDeilQw_FC_rmMfuGjHWu6oOF_9BrDJj0/s1600/september.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5Do2eC078BqYW0_W6Cgz7FHcluv9kx4KmeoCk91aP25kV6nQ3BnrcSbmiIDRScILM08LiE2cp9kPE-DALg7EtEN0OstenxlzGk0AulbWkLKxDeilQw_FC_rmMfuGjHWu6oOF_9BrDJj0/s320/september.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">September is a month known for new beginnings and change. It is also the month in which my family mourns the loss of both of my brothers. Bryan, who is always remembered on September 7th and Scot who is now remembered on September 19th. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One year after losing my second brother and I am just beginning to realize that he is actually gone forever. I am struggling to recall the sound of his laughter, the warmth of his smile. One year after losing Scot I am trying to keep the memory of him alive. One year has gone on without him and I am still here. It's difficult, but that is the part that I must remember. I am still here.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That is what any of those who have lost someone close to them must remember. While each day will be different without them, we must continue to live on. We are still here and we have to strive to be present in our own lives. As another soul whom, sadly we also mourn this month would say "Carpe Diem." </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This past year has taught me a great deal about myself. It has been one of </span>tremendous<span style="font-family: inherit;"> personal growth. I have gone through some difficult times, yet I just recently realized that still I rise. What allows me to carry on is simple, but it took me a while to let it surface. It is hope. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000;">I came to realize that when it feels like everything in life is out of our control worry does nothing. It is hope that gives us light. Hope is a cognitive choice. Some, like me, have to train their minds to choose hope over worry. Sometimes it is not easy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000;">I view hope as an exercise. I have to work at it, train to seek it. Sometimes it can be as hard as a running a marathon, but still I choose it. I have come to see it as a brave choice. One that I can make regardless of the circumstances. Hope is a verb. It is an action. It is not a chair to sit on while we passively wait for things to get better. It is something I can do. Something I can choose in spite of my circumstances. I think that especially when things look the most bleak it is the most important time to choose hope.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #990000;">I cannot make sense of what has happened, nor can I worry about what is to come. Instead I choose to hope. I hope for peace, for love and for strength. I hope to live on in a way that would make siblings proud.</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "merriweather" , serif; font-size: 16px;"></span>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFALAqqsCt7MPS3tIbhMosFX2kbtux4OVNlI67hGZ61gyxaJs4WFh6ntMh07wyYcnzMuCcSL0JhX_E4-wjDAFkGkeKot8rDR6wxBvJ0ac3mZdnrYHv5DcFxBKQIw6Vkx2pHx7fvVlYycN4/s1600/hope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFALAqqsCt7MPS3tIbhMosFX2kbtux4OVNlI67hGZ61gyxaJs4WFh6ntMh07wyYcnzMuCcSL0JhX_E4-wjDAFkGkeKot8rDR6wxBvJ0ac3mZdnrYHv5DcFxBKQIw6Vkx2pHx7fvVlYycN4/s320/hope.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-10039633673963403822017-05-11T15:16:00.000-07:002017-05-11T15:16:04.872-07:00Growing through it...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">In this journaling adventure I have come to learn a few things about myself. As I delve into this journey of self discovery I am realizing more and more that I am guilty of hiding my true self. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I wear a mask, albeit a figurative one, and I wear it every day. It makes me appear to be strong and capable, cheerful and outgoing. This mask continues to smile in spite of what is going on with the person behind it. I use it to hide my vulnerable self, the one that sometimes cannot get out from under the sadness. This mask allows me to control what people see. It gives me courage to go out into the world and face the public.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqZQR68fywP3rWqi8MKT3axG74IOkcyW8rBu5HXenWz19FvkA-xmgrYWTdhLlzZpACwVdVRgRHNTZ_GFRnQRmK-_lSAjYmJoPy55wtENXDHyIFJaTSVFPxV5TubTkS6TPOenxpwtJyLFV/s1600/come-distinguere-un-falso-sorriso_0fde300325d1ecedd84dd56f9f5e294b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqZQR68fywP3rWqi8MKT3axG74IOkcyW8rBu5HXenWz19FvkA-xmgrYWTdhLlzZpACwVdVRgRHNTZ_GFRnQRmK-_lSAjYmJoPy55wtENXDHyIFJaTSVFPxV5TubTkS6TPOenxpwtJyLFV/s320/come-distinguere-un-falso-sorriso_0fde300325d1ecedd84dd56f9f5e294b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">My mask has been worn many times, and it used to fit me like a glove. Lately, though, it has begun to feel cumbersome and I struggle to hold it in place. I am becoming increasingly more exhausted each time I have to readjust it. So much so, that I no longer wish to wear it.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I'd love to remove it and hang it up in the closet with the cloak of grief I described in my last post. I don't want to put it on, yet I don't wish to burden people with my real feelings. This is the thing I've learned about depression. It creates a sense of loneliness because I cannot show my vulnerabilities. In turn, this makes me feel trapped. I have a sense that I can never truly express how I'm feeling for fear of bringing other people down. I also fear that people won't understand. They won't see my sadness as something that I just can't "snap out of." These feelings breed anxiety. I start to worry what people will think of me. I over analyze so many of my insecurities.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I have terrible social anxiety. I would much rather stay home, with my husband and children, where I know it is safe. Here I do not have to keep up pretenses. I trust my family and allow them to see my vulnerabilities. In social settings however, I am worried that people will see the broken person who hides behind her perfected smile. Because of this it has become safer, and easier, to stay at home. Leaving the sanctuary of our home often frightens me. I am increasingly terrified of being judged or pitied. I am scared of being "seen."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigliP-RKb_NHhwCncmP1J44G4xDJaqZOQAerLVIE8B_BV34XigjVysd6KUhmdbWCLbKdWH1QQSewGBkKfOIGomuq3iixjmOaLxufgsUI1z3qKjxbM3SeRBVSny_uYhMDEg_dllZDyVI2GM/s1600/2dc5ce4dfd95fbfff349f9475b5d35eb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigliP-RKb_NHhwCncmP1J44G4xDJaqZOQAerLVIE8B_BV34XigjVysd6KUhmdbWCLbKdWH1QQSewGBkKfOIGomuq3iixjmOaLxufgsUI1z3qKjxbM3SeRBVSny_uYhMDEg_dllZDyVI2GM/s320/2dc5ce4dfd95fbfff349f9475b5d35eb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I've read enough to know that avoidance is not a healthy coping mechanism, but I still prefer to be alone. I am never lonely when I am by myself. Just the opposite in fact. I find that this is when I am most comfortable. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">What I hope to find in this journey is a balance. I want the option of wearing the mask when I most need to, but I also want to be able to remove it when I am with those that understand and make me feel safe. Finding this balance is a constant struggle, mainly because I do not know how to ask for help. I only wish to be a giver not a taker. I do not feel worthy of accepting help. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-knX-hh2GWVBrNSxvkTi587w5ftmEFnbb2xp0aUPqz9_CQugGFjWlrdaTkKRMSJDZv0gttg3-2ClDcpALKtwl3_D_uTs7ds0sYPPl3_mCl5dGENLjcf9F09pu0lPBLVzBRaWwzOTveiOf/s1600/d582136f6f0e1117148a0cfe5ac09e8a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-knX-hh2GWVBrNSxvkTi587w5ftmEFnbb2xp0aUPqz9_CQugGFjWlrdaTkKRMSJDZv0gttg3-2ClDcpALKtwl3_D_uTs7ds0sYPPl3_mCl5dGENLjcf9F09pu0lPBLVzBRaWwzOTveiOf/s320/d582136f6f0e1117148a0cfe5ac09e8a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #660000;">Perhaps the most important thing I have learned so far is that I am a work in progress and that I am trying to grow through what I am going through.</span>TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-1398798288027808562017-05-02T09:57:00.002-07:002017-05-02T09:57:43.165-07:00Reading, Writing and Baking...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ33yRmW8sn2a5J1ctvoP_fXGMty_bW33h5Aj37B9Ouvz6XGnoHykKxfKbtgXyIJLsngxdPKHvErw2ByYJf8_qxLZjPoSislxvzyvAJCunuzyVT1VnDxWcel3qk-EZ_uM5kfLNCUe-DQWz/s1600/benefits-of-baking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ33yRmW8sn2a5J1ctvoP_fXGMty_bW33h5Aj37B9Ouvz6XGnoHykKxfKbtgXyIJLsngxdPKHvErw2ByYJf8_qxLZjPoSislxvzyvAJCunuzyVT1VnDxWcel3qk-EZ_uM5kfLNCUe-DQWz/s320/benefits-of-baking.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">As I mentioned in my last post, I've been doing a lot of reading lately. Not the dark and twisty psychological thrillers that are my usual cup of tea, but books that I hope will help me regain my focus and help me to once again find my footing. I've also been trying to rediscover the joy I have previously found in baking.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;">I recently read an article I found online that discusses the benefits of baking. In it the author, Gabriele Fantelli, talks about how mental health and culinary experts alike give credit to the idea that baking could be very helpful in relieving the symptoms of anxiety and depression. It is noted that baking combines the physical and projection aspects of the traditional occupational therapies. Not only does baking help to relieve symptoms, but it also produces something that we get to indulge in. Baked goods are notorious for generating smiles, especially when our creations are shared with others. The end result is not only a tasty treat, it also fosters positive feelings and happiness.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="color: #660000;">This comes as no surprise to me. I've been an emotional baker for years. It's the reason I began this blog in fact. It was therapy for me when I lost my job in 2011. I loved to bake and write and this blog allowed me to combine those two passions. In light of all that has happened this past year, I've lost my direction and my baking and writing has gone by the wayside. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;">My husband, who has remained by my side through these trying times and has shown me so much love and support, even bought me a state of the art Kitchen Aid mixer in an attempt to renew my desire to bake. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWygkP70u7xcYxTGPOnZm084p7YALCMUkYaLRSnGY2U1NS4BDb7BICrlL1ZbXQ3Q8AdQCnheZklqghOQ6zD9Yg1YChxcn67lp5yAxnPrpB0YbCRP7xoGlw3hzDIkAV5B0LI1Cn0Fcrn-oY/s1600/IMG_2676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWygkP70u7xcYxTGPOnZm084p7YALCMUkYaLRSnGY2U1NS4BDb7BICrlL1ZbXQ3Q8AdQCnheZklqghOQ6zD9Yg1YChxcn67lp5yAxnPrpB0YbCRP7xoGlw3hzDIkAV5B0LI1Cn0Fcrn-oY/s320/IMG_2676.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> It's beautiful and I love it, but I will admit that it sat dormant for longer it should have. My therapist encouraged me to use it. She also encouraged me to write. Journaling she called it ( I looked it up, it's a thing). So I did, and here I am, back in the kitchen and at the keyboard.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000;">I decided to return to the book that started it all six years ago,</span><span style="color: #e06666;"><b> </b></span><span style="color: #e06666; font-style: italic;"><b><u>The Happy Baker</u>; a dater's guide to emotional baking </b></span><span style="color: #660000;">by Erin Bolger. While I'm not in the dating pool (and thankfully haven't been for decades!) I am emotional so this book fits the bill. </span></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12px;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6-CjfmX-JCaFd6XnedfyRAtxN8Sn7rMWm23apQVsntxpih7Phyphenhyphen-8Rfro5UXa6btw49qDZxwf6zGiUtCczO4iOUlWJLPq9_PUpTpyzKlgIEFpYvOu9hiRvKSrpNPiJ6up-eDCIlX5mA-f/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6-CjfmX-JCaFd6XnedfyRAtxN8Sn7rMWm23apQVsntxpih7Phyphenhyphen-8Rfro5UXa6btw49qDZxwf6zGiUtCczO4iOUlWJLPq9_PUpTpyzKlgIEFpYvOu9hiRvKSrpNPiJ6up-eDCIlX5mA-f/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the author's go to cookie so I thought it was an appropriate recipe to get me back in the saddle. If the fact that there were no cookies left to photograph is any indication, I'd say they were pretty good. As for me? I'm getting there.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNfDaCKdntNdVwMMAcI2nimGyhL1Zxb7QFbmmkYTON8zQKgKa42xXEJWzTtOOZYJQNjwY_K8bgSF287pbdQIENhh9rN5XHCC-l1E8QZ7Gx-xUjE7VawQ-y-3MnyG-LIjs7T8T12Um4KWl/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNfDaCKdntNdVwMMAcI2nimGyhL1Zxb7QFbmmkYTON8zQKgKa42xXEJWzTtOOZYJQNjwY_K8bgSF287pbdQIENhh9rN5XHCC-l1E8QZ7Gx-xUjE7VawQ-y-3MnyG-LIjs7T8T12Um4KWl/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"><i><u><span style="font-size: large;">You Will Need</span></u></i>:</span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup brown sugar, packed</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup (one stick) butter, softened</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup smooth peanut butter</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tsp vanilla</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 egg</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">3/4 cup all purpose flour</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">3/4 cup quick cooking oats</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tsp baking soda</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 tsp salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup shredded coconut</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Z2XUw9-bvejk3fZE1GkFt3vOla8pUpz_W9fqpefSDCWhmNw28Osk_2baQIMUP-3Pp6StXk6ME2_eRto8g4GypI07s9RUE6WoBeXd-3ETNTWsPHH8nKC4LW2AcFIVR7sQNAk0vWaO0fEJ/s1600/IMG_2648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Z2XUw9-bvejk3fZE1GkFt3vOla8pUpz_W9fqpefSDCWhmNw28Osk_2baQIMUP-3Pp6StXk6ME2_eRto8g4GypI07s9RUE6WoBeXd-3ETNTWsPHH8nKC4LW2AcFIVR7sQNAk0vWaO0fEJ/s320/IMG_2648.JPG" width="241" /></i></a></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><u>Directions</u></i>:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">preheat oven to 375'</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">in a large bowl, combine both sugars and butter and beat until smooth and fluffy</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">add peanut butter, vanilla and egg; mix well</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">stir in flour, oatmeal, baking soda and salt being careful not to over mix</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">fold in chocolate chips and coconut</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">using a cookie scoop, or two spoons, drop onto a parchment lined cookie sheet ensuring that they are at least two inches apart</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">press down lightly with your fingers or a fork dipped in sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden brown</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">allow cookies to cool on sheets for two minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAFlok0Jr03AFHu-bZ5dG8T7u1k0350IPdF_QHqT7yoF1CYL6_LCDiDtFQOhhu_J7Jo7R_OBGMgztQeYn6NAdYUiLrDu-q6_c8K9PApw_e9bJrE1Ok4Wvmhrjxf502tydBJUEGW4tPnoj/s1600/IMG_2650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAFlok0Jr03AFHu-bZ5dG8T7u1k0350IPdF_QHqT7yoF1CYL6_LCDiDtFQOhhu_J7Jo7R_OBGMgztQeYn6NAdYUiLrDu-q6_c8K9PApw_e9bJrE1Ok4Wvmhrjxf502tydBJUEGW4tPnoj/s320/IMG_2650.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #660000; text-align: start;">If you'd like to read the full article that discusses the benefits of baking and mental health click the following link:</span></div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: arial, verdana, tahoma, "dejavu sans", sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;">http://www.mentalhealthy.co.uk/depression/depression/the-benefits-of-baking-therapy.html</span></span></div>
</div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-30610344755784163762017-04-26T11:20:00.000-07:002017-04-26T13:50:50.705-07:00We can't go over it, we can't go under it...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbjD5GZ3Z6DEwHotlBUlmb2jmQB5BQuzfinCpcXqfrPUxo92TzUR_a-xiRZJdewAMZbNN-sUTlQ3xF5GMt5D4H1qXzA_F2USXO6kfnAPlyYcm9CVLii6FutZnAoosxnYs7X64cf3M-9zt/s1600/db68642d7eb0fda995354cb0d0edaf29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbjD5GZ3Z6DEwHotlBUlmb2jmQB5BQuzfinCpcXqfrPUxo92TzUR_a-xiRZJdewAMZbNN-sUTlQ3xF5GMt5D4H1qXzA_F2USXO6kfnAPlyYcm9CVLii6FutZnAoosxnYs7X64cf3M-9zt/s320/db68642d7eb0fda995354cb0d0edaf29.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Once again, here I sit, trying to write what I feel. It is not easy. Nor is it something I wish to do. It is, however, something that I must do. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I am a known introvert. When the going gets tough, I hibernate. That is my defense mechanism. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Being that I am an avid book lover, I also read (thankfully this pairs well with hibernation). Lately I've been turning to self help books. This is the way that I try to make sense of it all without having to openly admit that I am struggling. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Currently I am reading </span><i><u>Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience and Finding Joy </u></i><span style="background-color: white;">by Sheryl Sandberg. This book offers great insight into building resilience and moving forward after life's setbacks. The premise of the book is that even after the most devastating events, it is possible to grow by finding deeper meaning and gaining greater appreciation in our lives. The title is meant to imply that we are all living some form of Option B. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Feeling the way that I do, it's hard to go out into the world and have to answer the same question over and over. "How are you?" ~ "Fine" I lie. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgES3sAXnXZAvo8c2B0yEIwtt7_sDO_cdz8oSrVk9AyfZ1S9qNJeVgv6BJOdtva_o4jeWkcKtGd_cnggCzJywkObw3ZdDgj-boxx6OjMatYpFmgbDcwnYTM2MOLeNfbmCzT-GhV9P8djocM/s1600/939532994e66f1a626362e17e9daab54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgES3sAXnXZAvo8c2B0yEIwtt7_sDO_cdz8oSrVk9AyfZ1S9qNJeVgv6BJOdtva_o4jeWkcKtGd_cnggCzJywkObw3ZdDgj-boxx6OjMatYpFmgbDcwnYTM2MOLeNfbmCzT-GhV9P8djocM/s320/939532994e66f1a626362e17e9daab54.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Last night while reading <i><u>Option B</u></i>, the words of psy</span><span style="background-color: white;">chologist David Caruso resonated with me. He observes, “culture demands that the answer to the question ‘How are you?’ is not just ‘Good.’ … We need to be ‘Awesome.’ ” Caruso adds, “There’s this relentless drive to mask the expression of our true underlying feelings.” Admitting that you’re having a rough time is “almost inappropriate.”</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I could not agree more. Often times I notice that people who ask me how I am are moving on to something else before I even have a chance to answer the question. It's almost a given that we are to answer with a rote fine, good, or even awesome. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">As I move through my struggles with grief and depression, I am learning more and more who it is that I can be honest with. I know who will accept "fine" and move on and I know who will call my bluff. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I am also beginning to understand that grief is chronic. It never truly goes away. It is not something that you get over. Rather, it is more about remission and relapse from which there is no cure. What that means is, you cannot simply wait for it to pass, for it to be over. You instead have to move through it, like a swimmer caught in an undertow. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">This is not saying that joy will never be found again. It does come, often surprising me when it does. But it is in those times that my grief sneaks up on me and drags me down again. Guilt plays a major role in that. Happy moments are sometimes the worst because that is when the ache is the strongest.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I have come to think of my grief and depression as if it were a heavy cloak. It is something that I wear for awhile and then suddenly I realize that it is heavy and I am exhausted from the weight of it. At these times I work very hard to take it off and hang it in my closet. </span><span style="background-color: white;">This does not mean that I am able to let go of it, but it does mean that I am desperate to free myself from it, close the door on it for a bit. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">I hope that this cloak is something that I will someday outgrow. Perhaps I will then be able to stop wearing it and leave it in my closet, only coming back to visit it every once in a while. It will then be something I will no longer carry with me. Not in the sense that it is a burden. I will always carry it in my heart, but I cannot carry it on my back forever. </span></span>TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0Canada52.633362419323156 -103.644011020660427.111327919323156 -144.9526050206604 78.155396919323152 -62.3354170206604tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-76778902487197493882017-04-12T13:02:00.001-07:002017-04-12T13:02:19.698-07:00Hello from the other side...<span style="background-color: white; color: #383540; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw8d_dhmnSBbaIh4JgEA9_cRwT2vj92M0mDLnEH629N7avUV8KgKdMLjb5uLrii-CgJ0l8Ld-oLECe9KwxoejQ7G0wHfqP8WhLbyVDmrEJMmJL9IA2af123nTzhBzNOyeqwPKDp1Gi43CB/s1600/IMG_2553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw8d_dhmnSBbaIh4JgEA9_cRwT2vj92M0mDLnEH629N7avUV8KgKdMLjb5uLrii-CgJ0l8Ld-oLECe9KwxoejQ7G0wHfqP8WhLbyVDmrEJMmJL9IA2af123nTzhBzNOyeqwPKDp1Gi43CB/s320/IMG_2553.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;">It's been awhile, I know. Much has happened since my last post. I'm not sure that I am there yet, but I am trying to find my way back.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;">2016 was not a good year. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;">It is said that writing is cathartic. This I know. The reason I started this blog was to create an outlet for my emotions after losing my beloved school librarian job back in 2011. I thought that was a bad year. I was mistaken. It was merely a fork in the road. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">It is with a heavy heart that I return to writing. Something I once found joy in. It is time. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">If you are a follower of this blog, you know that I took that fork in the road six years ago and it led me, by way of a jewelry store, a bakery and a trip back to university, to a job that started my career as a librarian. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">I began my adult working life in 1993 as a fresh out of university 23 year old. I had every intention of becoming a teacher back then, but as fate would have it, I began working in a library and found my true calling. I stayed on through marriage and the birth of our three children. It was a job that I planned on retiring from. However, in 2004 I was offered a job that suited my family to a tee, so after much thought, I left my wonderful job in the hopes that I was moving on to something better.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">It was. For seven whole years. Until someone higher up decided that school libraries were a thing of the past. As archaic as the dinosaur. Myself, and many other wonderfully talented librarians were let go. There was no warning. We didn't see it coming. I was 42 at the time, and for the first time in my adult life I was unemployed. It was not a good time for me.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">I began this blog as a way of not only coping, but finding something to do with all of the new found time I had on my hands. It worked then, and for that reason, I am returning to it with hopes that it will do the same once again.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">I've walked circles around this computer for days. I knew that I wanted to write, but feared what would happen once I started. Do I want to express all of my feelings to "the world?" No. Do I need to let them out? Yes. I finally sat down today and committed myself to writing at least a paragraph. I am writing with the notion that no one is going to read this. I have neglected my blog for so long now that I'm sure I have not a single follower. And that is okay. This post isn't for anyone but me. The thought that my words will go unread allows me to write with clarity and freedom. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">The year 2016 started out fine. Great in fact. It was the year of the dream vacation that my husband and I had been planning since February of 2015. A Mediterranean cruise that would last two full weeks. We had so much to look forward to. I was once again working at a public library (ironically, the same one that I left in 2004). I loved my job, my kids were healthy and prospering teenagers, and my husband of 23 years and I had a trip of a lifetime coming up in the fall.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">On June 25th, things began to unravel. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">Our library management and board could not come to an agreement with our Union during contract negotiations and we were forced to go on strike. It was such a foreign concept to me. I had never done such a thing, nor was I prepared for what it would entail. I will not go into detail about the strike, other than to say that it was one of the most brutally difficult things I've had to endure in my lifetime to date. Picketing is not fun. Walking for 4 hours each day in all kinds of inclement weather; heat, cold, rain and wind, was not something I looked forward to. Being sworn at, almost run down by people that had places to go that were more important than what we were standing up for, also not fun. It lasted for 7 1/2 months. 229 days. Long enough for me to lose some of my faith in the decency of people. Sadly, that is not the worst thing that happened in 2016.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">In March, a healthy, robust and wise man that we loved was diagnosed with an acute form of cancer at the age of 54. A relative on my husband's side, Rick was the one of the wittiest and most genuinely kind person I had ever met. His battle with this cruel disease led him down a path that would cause much heartache within our family. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">In yet another cruel twist of fate, my brother, my only surviving sibling (the youngest of 4, I have already lost a brother and a sister), went into the hospital with a headache in August and never returned home. Scot was also 54. The same age as our cousin Rick. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> The two men died a day apart in September of 2016. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">This was the month that my husband and I were to travel on our much anticipated dream cruise. We sailed for 4 days before having to return home. It was a difficult journey to say the least. I cannot, nor will I try, to put it into words. I also cannot</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"> express in words the great hole the loss of these wonderful men have left in the hearts of many. They are missed each and every single day. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5dIo7kFOjwz1e8J0VfOJEpPdoYIMa41Oyz_8sIe5btboQxPvuV-_JjlWI1SOoPW25x4WG3p9zfJrtiwfC9oqB5d6-5fOBNB3OMM6l5sxM5_qrcYQPR5cacusEUJtDujc0jeC3-Iw9lYA/s1600/IMG_2552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5dIo7kFOjwz1e8J0VfOJEpPdoYIMa41Oyz_8sIe5btboQxPvuV-_JjlWI1SOoPW25x4WG3p9zfJrtiwfC9oqB5d6-5fOBNB3OMM6l5sxM5_qrcYQPR5cacusEUJtDujc0jeC3-Iw9lYA/s320/IMG_2552.JPG" width="230" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">It is now April. Almost 7 months to the day that my brother died, followed by our cousin. In those months I have struggled to find my way. I have extreme anxiety and what is called "survivor's guilt." As well, I have been diagnosed with depression. It's ironic this diagnosis, since I am not depressed in the sense that I am unhappy.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;">I have a great life. I am forever grateful to my wonderful and loving husband who has always remained by my side. My supporter, my advocate and my voice of reason. I have three wonderful, healthy and understanding children. They have made me smile even when I didn't want to. My circle of friends are always there for me to lean on and I am once again able to do a job that I love. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"> I am truly not unhappy. I am just struggling to make sense of it all. The questions surmount the answers. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Century Gothic, Georgia, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">In writing this blog, I hope to dispel some of my dejection. I've started seeing a therapist, something I do not admit lightly, and she suggested that I start a journal as an outlet for my emotions. My goal is to return to blogging and perhaps even baking (something I have lost interest in amid the chaos). As I have previously mentioned, this worked for me once before, I am hopeful that it will again.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZvLjEo9cTBd-c68dyklZZwNIi_J__5D4SgeCCrKHtADp7lqoqqyjJva5X8GVN3KwriYW5QPG0JQMZDL3ffwS9f-iC3S77hrKMq_Hd2qIRNlKXXkOMT91nhV8EoqK9xPIyp0q5d9CxHwt/s1600/PicCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZvLjEo9cTBd-c68dyklZZwNIi_J__5D4SgeCCrKHtADp7lqoqqyjJva5X8GVN3KwriYW5QPG0JQMZDL3ffwS9f-iC3S77hrKMq_Hd2qIRNlKXXkOMT91nhV8EoqK9xPIyp0q5d9CxHwt/s320/PicCollage.png" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: #660000;"> In the words of Ernest Hemingway, I hope to "write hard and clear about what hurts" and perhaps somewhere along the way I will rediscover myself and my love of baking. Perhaps my next post might even contain a recipe. Until then...</span></span></div>
<h2 class="date-header" style="background-color: white; color: #77c6b3; font-family: "Century Gothic", Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: 0.05em; line-height: normal; margin: 0em 0px -0.5em; padding-left: 55px; text-transform: uppercase;">
<br /></h2>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-19825061789756049262016-06-05T17:34:00.002-07:002016-06-05T17:34:31.159-07:00Don't Trifle With Me...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAarNKEPx_aQKViy5u_L4wn9ZJMf2c_a_DC0XXMqHT5ytGfSUKu8pLEQIJKE_eTfDwLWxVCyMFxi1oiyF5VvBB1HQE7wiMFZ13rW75qX0vPrySpX2HN_ARlXhyphenhyphenzw15HcQIfoK4a_wxS2I/s1600/IMG_0361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAarNKEPx_aQKViy5u_L4wn9ZJMf2c_a_DC0XXMqHT5ytGfSUKu8pLEQIJKE_eTfDwLWxVCyMFxi1oiyF5VvBB1HQE7wiMFZ13rW75qX0vPrySpX2HN_ARlXhyphenhyphenzw15HcQIfoK4a_wxS2I/s320/IMG_0361.JPG" width="281" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;">Seriously. <i>Don't.</i></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"> It has been a series of unfortunate events around here as of late and I have no one to blame but myself. Not quite two weeks ago, I did a spectacular back flip off of a ladder and proceeded to windmill myself right off of our raised deck, hitting the deck box on the way down, finally landing in a heap on the beach stone that surrounds our garden. I'm sure it could have won me the grand prize on America's Funniest Home Videos. Unfortunately, there was no one home to record my fall.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"> Ladder safety 101; </span><b><span style="color: #e06666;">DO NOT</span></b><span style="color: #660000;">, under </span><u><b><span style="color: #e06666;"><i>ANY</i></span></b></u><span style="color: #660000;"> circumstances, climb unsupervised or while home alone (the cat does not count). You know when you buy a new hairdryer and it comes with a warning label that says "Do not use while bathing" and you think to yourself, who would be that stupid? Well, I think ladders should come with similar warning labels. Perhaps they do. Ours is about a hundred years old and of the wooden variety. Ironically, our neighbours call it the widow maker. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"> Fortunately, I was not seriously hurt. I was more embarrassed than anything at the initial time of the fall. Stunned as I was, I managed to grab my phone and take a picture of the crash site before I called my husband to let him know what happened (he was <i>not</i> impressed).</span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Olgcm-Rz7t7oFD_oulymBEhwaUSP4pzcyP4HdQJj2YtRp0fK2hmi1TJCZofzXEUr9XQjvNQDiwBRYN7itcD-pmCT1pZ0Bm3lA56bS6l4Uja_q-Q93N39mEWaCsjFGAwrc9PsuCctjciP/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Olgcm-Rz7t7oFD_oulymBEhwaUSP4pzcyP4HdQJj2YtRp0fK2hmi1TJCZofzXEUr9XQjvNQDiwBRYN7itcD-pmCT1pZ0Bm3lA56bS6l4Uja_q-Q93N39mEWaCsjFGAwrc9PsuCctjciP/s320/IMG_0298.JPG" width="242" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> Somehow, I managed to take two deck chairs down with me and lost a shoe in the process. Note the crack in the seat of the bench. That was made by yours truly. You would think a terrible fall like that would knock some sense into me. It did not. I got right back up on that ladder and finished the job of putting our garden lights up in our gazebo. Stupid is as stupid does.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;"> As if that weren't bad enough, I waited an entire week before going to see a doctor. I know, I know. Trust me, I know! When I told the doctor what happened and then showed him my bruises (they were many and fierce) he could not believe that;</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;">I waited so long to seek medical attention</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #660000;">I didn't need a note for work as I hadn't missed a day (what can I say, I really love my job)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">after viewing the numerous X-rays that he ordered (12 in total) nothing was broken!</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #660000;">He honestly was astonished. It would seem that I had been bruised and battered, but not broken. He let me off with a stern warning. My independent ladder acrobatics were not to continue. Good thing I finished the job when I had the chance.</span><br /><div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;"> As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, there have been a <i>series</i> of unfortunate events around here, and not the Lemony Snicket kind. Unfortunately, I now know what Plantar F</span><span style="color: #660000;">asciitis is and what it feels like to walk like Frankenstein's monster. I have also learned this handy trick; when you shatter and spill an entire bottle of olive oil all over your kitchen floor, the best way to clean it up is with vast amounts of oatmeal. I kid you not. Perhaps some things you read on the Internet really are true! </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> With all that said, I am optimistically trying to look on the bright side. I make every effort to be a glass half full kind of girl. </span><span style="color: #660000; text-align: center;"> I know that things could always be worse. and because of that, </span><span style="color: #660000;">I'm still smiling. It's a sort of a wince actually, but I'm trying. The moral of this post? Life is uncertain, eat dessert first.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdvc59midTJVa7bhVNcS5PdPq8dViMasQw638EaXZmEjxSi2-VQ5FqX8gpKxIJTop_svKvjVebpRAFYjOQZvVQ43wyoEKJVhbaqRsLrpC2bnXTi6WLtvgwbHq21JmGk3TVEfQ3pSXBtkT/s1600/IMG_0359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdvc59midTJVa7bhVNcS5PdPq8dViMasQw638EaXZmEjxSi2-VQ5FqX8gpKxIJTop_svKvjVebpRAFYjOQZvVQ43wyoEKJVhbaqRsLrpC2bnXTi6WLtvgwbHq21JmGk3TVEfQ3pSXBtkT/s320/IMG_0359.JPG" width="261" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Don't Trifle With Me Recipe</b></u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large; font-style: italic; text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><u><i>You will need</i></u>:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">One bag of two bite brownies, cubed</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 box of Jello vanilla pudding</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 cups whipped cream</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/3 cup Bailey's Irish Cream</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">3/4 cup simple syrup </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">3 cups mixed berries (I used strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries)</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv1F7DRsasLvZCCHdxcvk4QFbye8EHO9XRXePE4QPo0uW91-XGDCbRzE53bI8fCDIkKPZyo2fABRPRvxvoWZDPAD_I92RP_IoOHgek-yBJwf2OhUT1bNVOOkUDAFgyAgU8Y6lqf8lVKLhC/s1600/IMG_0360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv1F7DRsasLvZCCHdxcvk4QFbye8EHO9XRXePE4QPo0uW91-XGDCbRzE53bI8fCDIkKPZyo2fABRPRvxvoWZDPAD_I92RP_IoOHgek-yBJwf2OhUT1bNVOOkUDAFgyAgU8Y6lqf8lVKLhC/s320/IMG_0360.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>Directions</u>:</b></i></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">to prepare the simple syrup, add 1 cup of water to 1 cup of granulated sugar in a small saucepan and </span><span style="color: #660000;">bring to a boil, whisking frequently</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">allow syrup to stand and cool to room temperature</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">whip the whipping cream in a medium sized glass bowl until soft peaks form</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">prepare the pudding according to the instructions on the box and </span><span style="color: #660000;">let stand for 5 minutes to set</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">fold the pudding into the whipped cream</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">layer into a trifle bowl as follows; brownies, booze infused syrup, berries, cream</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">top with chocolate shavings and more berries if desired</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyoS6xeWLZ_1By6ntzsM6CuptQNfQw3CUl-BpzrBTYW56Tuw8NK8rPrDfQWwlpGX8LVmO5HFb1f1sMDxuRI8Mmi7hiAHzbQc9z5lIUdkC1IRCX5kuSzVofB6vYmVs7IFR7ktSQihWJkfg/s1600/IMG_0362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyoS6xeWLZ_1By6ntzsM6CuptQNfQw3CUl-BpzrBTYW56Tuw8NK8rPrDfQWwlpGX8LVmO5HFb1f1sMDxuRI8Mmi7hiAHzbQc9z5lIUdkC1IRCX5kuSzVofB6vYmVs7IFR7ktSQihWJkfg/s320/IMG_0362.JPG" width="281" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-27766470279124991042016-03-29T08:23:00.000-07:002016-04-07T05:21:17.166-07:00Hello, it's me...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">In case you've been wondering where I've been, I thought I'd post a quick glimpse at what I've been up to...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHO0tG3FXfgT8S8JF0N1LioxcngmtAsshEaimQZ1lk06eHqbLfnvaZ8EZuCObeSTHSQubU3cZXWV_U6P5pU8z_JRbbeWXci4cn47Ywl9tVVTV2dk3Q4VaxCj5xmG4vz1VelS4FgwADx3h/s1600/IMG_9037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHO0tG3FXfgT8S8JF0N1LioxcngmtAsshEaimQZ1lk06eHqbLfnvaZ8EZuCObeSTHSQubU3cZXWV_U6P5pU8z_JRbbeWXci4cn47Ywl9tVVTV2dk3Q4VaxCj5xmG4vz1VelS4FgwADx3h/s320/IMG_9037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4MS_86zHtIBmBo9LlA_YH5s1fdkcfA_vtjSm102xsflp-xiJbqLp2cnxGrjKhQ3OzhSstomnw4vgF9a7M7XK3LU5sV5TcO9NLX_t22xAoCLZckoUn-thBYkOnCW0x2q8SAG2gfxRDJ5i/s1600/IMG_9038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4MS_86zHtIBmBo9LlA_YH5s1fdkcfA_vtjSm102xsflp-xiJbqLp2cnxGrjKhQ3OzhSstomnw4vgF9a7M7XK3LU5sV5TcO9NLX_t22xAoCLZckoUn-thBYkOnCW0x2q8SAG2gfxRDJ5i/s320/IMG_9038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoifXifQSi1F82z0dqYuepKKWVgc4xvIAsVGFPQYn9sy0foCk2U2FMAPrjWAOD0EiiCKlhlDUkhz06GXURm-oyZLCMyrP3KJdMIU9As0K8AglQjgW0GxYxJ0dMwcL5TNUbQwMCOf-s-sy/s1600/IMG_9039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoifXifQSi1F82z0dqYuepKKWVgc4xvIAsVGFPQYn9sy0foCk2U2FMAPrjWAOD0EiiCKlhlDUkhz06GXURm-oyZLCMyrP3KJdMIU9As0K8AglQjgW0GxYxJ0dMwcL5TNUbQwMCOf-s-sy/s320/IMG_9039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPp3mA0zzaimTLZLnUKAdRoN4KCaK2UCAi83c1IFb-RxcK7jTs-Tm1LG3XW6v2b9kxXi4Ro7fLlOSN9XfNmSmyY5tPES7n9h-Etla9QZ21oEDy9RbOi2OpTysiznup3KjUaQgvdHYXN2WF/s1600/IMG_9044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPp3mA0zzaimTLZLnUKAdRoN4KCaK2UCAi83c1IFb-RxcK7jTs-Tm1LG3XW6v2b9kxXi4Ro7fLlOSN9XfNmSmyY5tPES7n9h-Etla9QZ21oEDy9RbOi2OpTysiznup3KjUaQgvdHYXN2WF/s320/IMG_9044.JPG" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSctA6WRhI17lFWKudFVIsku9tDArRIoWqnz_NTDfg2Jw5nj7ewpFn8qinwLHbqLOuInybim5pHqg7vfoSjJCH94nkl0kh4VzxkXrtpXn4PJIaz6QZ0lK4PZb5FT9Lijh1MvO-d1JTyrjD/s1600/IMG_9028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSctA6WRhI17lFWKudFVIsku9tDArRIoWqnz_NTDfg2Jw5nj7ewpFn8qinwLHbqLOuInybim5pHqg7vfoSjJCH94nkl0kh4VzxkXrtpXn4PJIaz6QZ0lK4PZb5FT9Lijh1MvO-d1JTyrjD/s320/IMG_9028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRT8Lqz3Z8YWy0dZJHdIz9FT5EDsFnQjJhQXQjERr53DlJMcVQ2a0ylfw4myTaBrKVtG3FLOcGsAsFeg2sVTDZnKFthVxvJ53eJuv_CLciy2PlFsj0bkpV1G0RftqrC0sxDaWO0yWYyUI/s1600/IMG_9029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRT8Lqz3Z8YWy0dZJHdIz9FT5EDsFnQjJhQXQjERr53DlJMcVQ2a0ylfw4myTaBrKVtG3FLOcGsAsFeg2sVTDZnKFthVxvJ53eJuv_CLciy2PlFsj0bkpV1G0RftqrC0sxDaWO0yWYyUI/s320/IMG_9029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fytsV-aT_aiBCheO6eGaTRM8zreLDBbXbJ1anAer0wngczGXsq6wYFR-Xm_b19fRBjuLB32mwXLbbShF8p3NPBEkd7Kncoq80OLBs8cLgDkQC6rAoKh8EiEgusYGDKu16vb-sq_-7v6J/s1600/IMG_8970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fytsV-aT_aiBCheO6eGaTRM8zreLDBbXbJ1anAer0wngczGXsq6wYFR-Xm_b19fRBjuLB32mwXLbbShF8p3NPBEkd7Kncoq80OLBs8cLgDkQC6rAoKh8EiEgusYGDKu16vb-sq_-7v6J/s320/IMG_8970.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-66360375298075188412016-02-02T19:30:00.001-08:002016-02-02T19:31:45.956-08:00To Blog, or not to Blog... <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUyDxyh-N47p-akDbO3io5-qkKz9fb_9fDAZLZ9JfJUToUrQaB5Y-HoFlOjG8r-XYA1txBRGMO5Tw3K1So78t6dc2jlDMSFFndu5pdbsN0znMxoX16kuISn_TAgsC1sZOzCML8WP-ygEv/s1600/464f1b85a21f1efcae658f1bb30cb8f2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUyDxyh-N47p-akDbO3io5-qkKz9fb_9fDAZLZ9JfJUToUrQaB5Y-HoFlOjG8r-XYA1txBRGMO5Tw3K1So78t6dc2jlDMSFFndu5pdbsN0znMxoX16kuISn_TAgsC1sZOzCML8WP-ygEv/s320/464f1b85a21f1efcae658f1bb30cb8f2.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"> July 26th, 2015. That was the last time I posted an entry to this blog. My apologies. I have no excuse. I certainly haven't stopped baking, I have just neglected to write about it.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> I often contemplate whether or not my blogging is a worthwhile endeavor. I wonder who, if anyone, reads my musings. Does anyone ever try my recipes? What is the point of it all? Six months is enough time for followers of my blog to give up on me and move on to something, or someone else. I came to the conclusion that I should just give it up. But once I thought that, I felt profoundly sad. I couldn't put my finger on it until I came to a halting realization. I don't write this blog for anyone but myself. That is the honest truth. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> I love to write. I always have. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't aspire to become a published author, I will leave that to the professionals. I simply enjoy the cathartic release that comes with putting the proverbial pen to paper. My thoughts on the page. It really matters not if anyone but me reads them. This blog is akin to a journal for me. Typing my thoughts into a blog though, seems more productive than jotting them into a pretty notebook and tucking them away in a drawer. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> So, whether anyone is reading this or not, I have come to the realization that I'm going to continue to blog. Hopefully on a more regular basis. It's good for me, and it gives purpose to my baking. Not that I need a reason to bake! Besides, someone just might be surfing the web in search of a new recipe and I inadvertently helped them out. How rewarding! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5Pmntp5vT7Y9U2wbWu1zKhNHTw4ufVEkaIeZW2uXt8VaaSpPg6YlhY2yu1pH9hReQQ4H7_tIz8iSIozQndgBFRzMswPoCcESkzvCrOJB7z0vOdNaVZfhKXu486FB0THFDUyLB8UZ4F7B/s1600/IMG_8887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5Pmntp5vT7Y9U2wbWu1zKhNHTw4ufVEkaIeZW2uXt8VaaSpPg6YlhY2yu1pH9hReQQ4H7_tIz8iSIozQndgBFRzMswPoCcESkzvCrOJB7z0vOdNaVZfhKXu486FB0THFDUyLB8UZ4F7B/s320/IMG_8887.JPG" width="220" /></a></div>
<i><u><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;">Raspberry Almond Bars</span></u></i></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">*Pre-heat your oven to 325 degrees.</span></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><u><br /></u></span>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>In a large bowl, mix</u>:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">3 sticks of butter, softened </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 2/3 cups of sliced almonds </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 cup of granulated sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 tsp salt</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>Add to combined mixture</u>:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">2 & 3/4 cups flour</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Line a 10 inch square pan with parchment paper.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVF8ZKBoywhYxfxiUr8xXoc7FjDVyd8GsYioHEkbnRmVBEmwyLvTl_NvoPJJY59cutoL5-Z1vxc3VaHzEq6jzf28ixFBp1qGHowLmlCSumECmKeF9Wtvu3QdMpVhaZoZaVwkpp7FhKEtp/s1600/10606468_492680314210164_3793019900531134471_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVF8ZKBoywhYxfxiUr8xXoc7FjDVyd8GsYioHEkbnRmVBEmwyLvTl_NvoPJJY59cutoL5-Z1vxc3VaHzEq6jzf28ixFBp1qGHowLmlCSumECmKeF9Wtvu3QdMpVhaZoZaVwkpp7FhKEtp/s320/10606468_492680314210164_3793019900531134471_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Pour 1/2 of the crust mixture into pan,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Bake for 12-15 minutes until dry,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> While crust is hot, spread 1 cup of raspberry jam evenly over top,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Spread the remaining mixture over top and press down lightly,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Sprinkle 1/3 cup of sliced almonds on top,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Bake 12- 15 minutes until golden,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Let cool completely before removing from pan,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> Cut evenly into squares,</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDt-m7rxYhl8lDaH5UR9CAkiCYlAAg1o7sHLpkXgQuI_V08zZtZ2MRyG321UrkQobRFZrZVsftkVzNbTxThYf_vyPd7H77L5_J2OFV2e-veYW7PiiN2FBz6R_59QbMCTcb7qT0ChcmtVn/s1600/IMG_8888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDt-m7rxYhl8lDaH5UR9CAkiCYlAAg1o7sHLpkXgQuI_V08zZtZ2MRyG321UrkQobRFZrZVsftkVzNbTxThYf_vyPd7H77L5_J2OFV2e-veYW7PiiN2FBz6R_59QbMCTcb7qT0ChcmtVn/s320/IMG_8888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-36898329824466908232015-07-26T10:54:00.000-07:002015-07-26T10:54:20.959-07:00When Life Gives You Zucchini...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KFmLQKw-R5foboTti7f0RpuN05mn5xbMDAAe0SEA4K62BWCldZqUGdTcZ9_vg1SiXvIM879U0WRHZFgmaQcdOBVqcsHRwtKO2C9qPh0ZeeLoEiYh8DfmThY1VjqDvgo-6upy9ocVuZcm/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KFmLQKw-R5foboTti7f0RpuN05mn5xbMDAAe0SEA4K62BWCldZqUGdTcZ9_vg1SiXvIM879U0WRHZFgmaQcdOBVqcsHRwtKO2C9qPh0ZeeLoEiYh8DfmThY1VjqDvgo-6upy9ocVuZcm/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> I recently posted on my Facebook page that a friend gave me a rather large zucchini from their garden. I asked for suggestions as to what I should bake with it and was both surprised and pleased at the many responses I received. My friend Sarah gave me this one. It was handed down to her and is her go to recipe for zucchini. I decided to give it a try and I was not sorry I did. It got rave reviews from all of my family (5 out of 5 is hard to come by in this house!) and my co-workers enjoyed it as well. The recipe yields two loaves so it's perfect for sharing! Give it a try, you'll be glad you did!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"><i><u>Chocolate Zucchini Bread</u></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><u>You will need</u>:</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 stick of butter, room temperature</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 cup of vegetable oil</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 3/4 cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 tsp vanilla</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 cup buttermilk</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 1/2 cups all purpose flour</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">4 tbsp cocoa powder</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 tsp cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 tsp baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 tsp baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> 1 tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 cups unpared zucchini, shredded</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rgKfJUMWzCNvem2N0d79xEI9C3Nj30juDGjc20IB_wtIqLaKsxWZLiIJrras8xeaKRfZsR89FFd0qTw9PLgWM3HQSiBCHWGNSeVwi8UnfkkeKA7WNJM3hanc0Zjs1dmaqwIqStBBKfLP/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rgKfJUMWzCNvem2N0d79xEI9C3Nj30juDGjc20IB_wtIqLaKsxWZLiIJrras8xeaKRfZsR89FFd0qTw9PLgWM3HQSiBCHWGNSeVwi8UnfkkeKA7WNJM3hanc0Zjs1dmaqwIqStBBKfLP/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> pre-heat oven to 350 degrees</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> in a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until creamy</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> add in the oil, eggs, vanilla and buttermilk and mix until combined and set aside</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and beat until just combined, do not overmix</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> stir in the zucchini and chocolate chips</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdQoAmDW6bzP9xpa2S_GpTHouGOaHGJTGz_PK7nxx5qPeCa8v9Ybpq7-YwkBvA0dUh1pJjMsbMbnW7ImKEIkt3CQ1zx070WEEcfehTlBlYyT_amiN0lJjmZoZNgrhyeEErorq8YmcXlyD/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdQoAmDW6bzP9xpa2S_GpTHouGOaHGJTGz_PK7nxx5qPeCa8v9Ybpq7-YwkBvA0dUh1pJjMsbMbnW7ImKEIkt3CQ1zx070WEEcfehTlBlYyT_amiN0lJjmZoZNgrhyeEErorq8YmcXlyD/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Pour mixture into two greased loaf pans and bake for 50 ~ 60 minutes, or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean from the centre</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_UIYn6SQ_xdTg8coJfRR4DbF5T-vnZHlR9caO9-bjHORw_-3DKcI9oTynkPcYAFFbdNww8R7BJ7FxEd3dBWl5_6UZhs8cnUQC4wgO91X8Egm5Hx8vmkUydpya0vgN1PzJN0UMCREvnCVs/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_UIYn6SQ_xdTg8coJfRR4DbF5T-vnZHlR9caO9-bjHORw_-3DKcI9oTynkPcYAFFbdNww8R7BJ7FxEd3dBWl5_6UZhs8cnUQC4wgO91X8Egm5Hx8vmkUydpya0vgN1PzJN0UMCREvnCVs/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">allow loaves to cool completely before slicing</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">wrap bread in plastic wrap or store in an air tight container</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyhyphenhyphen8oPzOQodjSUjlQA9Bj00NycuzS5tMBvczPLY22DyzWaQ60Ij4HSPXv8f0qXzv6kWPxI_NJmWIU-OX6IyHcMyNyE-V_g_oP79CzmavGqyEf6BMoHYPQK9P76apGTynxlDcRRH4nq2l/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyhyphenhyphen8oPzOQodjSUjlQA9Bj00NycuzS5tMBvczPLY22DyzWaQ60Ij4HSPXv8f0qXzv6kWPxI_NJmWIU-OX6IyHcMyNyE-V_g_oP79CzmavGqyEf6BMoHYPQK9P76apGTynxlDcRRH4nq2l/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB4P2lHM2m0gwHL-jvFQWX54NZc5UCBMYW00ejY4sHwHdbSL5-urwhM4Lsps-WzaOa7z0uKZ9o8nUDbzUowuCddzYppNJTsR9MX91WGh-6Ndz6QzP5zX4iwzkQTIAqG5u1riwdeUW5azx/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB4P2lHM2m0gwHL-jvFQWX54NZc5UCBMYW00ejY4sHwHdbSL5-urwhM4Lsps-WzaOa7z0uKZ9o8nUDbzUowuCddzYppNJTsR9MX91WGh-6Ndz6QzP5zX4iwzkQTIAqG5u1riwdeUW5azx/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-76164513842133392572015-07-22T13:07:00.001-07:002015-07-22T13:07:18.940-07:00To Have and to Hold...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">...and to eat and to enjoy!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5ISvIsYVNOY-LT52ZEnHpQf3eNPWgvjuWP5EgYjiJOYnQ6QryQQI7E20VxlDTXbhyphenhyphencx6owr4s5aiIuMu1T8lcKYMMgGrINtK4cDWHyJdLk1BJJDfQ8Pz55bl7BRbgQNTQ6-2uYO9C0Z0/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5ISvIsYVNOY-LT52ZEnHpQf3eNPWgvjuWP5EgYjiJOYnQ6QryQQI7E20VxlDTXbhyphenhyphencx6owr4s5aiIuMu1T8lcKYMMgGrINtK4cDWHyJdLk1BJJDfQ8Pz55bl7BRbgQNTQ6-2uYO9C0Z0/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+011.JPG" width="293" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> For those of you who don't have Facebook, I thought I'd post some pictures of the wedding that I baked for back in May. It was a beautiful day and the bride was gorgeous. I felt very honoured to be a part of their special day.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgT4dzlre9HhTdjdmIx6MjMhG9iICogMOLwOKlx1uv1_Wm7y7rAbdxqAEx4dcRs28lkJtDmMx-kABFmWOkk2CkaxIPGYmvimWi9d4eZ7iIPJ0pRlARW0z_iFeLsbHqjxGyrbTJx1Iqam5/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgT4dzlre9HhTdjdmIx6MjMhG9iICogMOLwOKlx1uv1_Wm7y7rAbdxqAEx4dcRs28lkJtDmMx-kABFmWOkk2CkaxIPGYmvimWi9d4eZ7iIPJ0pRlARW0z_iFeLsbHqjxGyrbTJx1Iqam5/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> I baked 14 dozen cupcakes for the occasion, an assortment of vanilla, chocolate and red velvet...</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33IPdqWHYrMnU8qYiEj4IGIpLUE2vqaxehJRxsOU92vFwgEcqzU_i6Y5pHIc0gpmJWtc88-uiEc8glh3Ra5W2qy8AmozYhMYKTts_rJOj6iwARnrI9Deofgt6gixt4TZNbj_QSyWiw6wB/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33IPdqWHYrMnU8qYiEj4IGIpLUE2vqaxehJRxsOU92vFwgEcqzU_i6Y5pHIc0gpmJWtc88-uiEc8glh3Ra5W2qy8AmozYhMYKTts_rJOj6iwARnrI9Deofgt6gixt4TZNbj_QSyWiw6wB/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+015.JPG" width="317" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3l5eDBMbwaywzjeTmlKWcNxeTfeeEE-GOtmc8A37i1e7hFAQEGEF0z9jEAw-AyUZ__ePKzmUORVLKDSfgmKOXWunReibruT0rplz2ztG1Wj4l2ZgvE3UbIywUL-ICJ762kzLa7oGWY0Z/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3l5eDBMbwaywzjeTmlKWcNxeTfeeEE-GOtmc8A37i1e7hFAQEGEF0z9jEAw-AyUZ__ePKzmUORVLKDSfgmKOXWunReibruT0rplz2ztG1Wj4l2ZgvE3UbIywUL-ICJ762kzLa7oGWY0Z/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; text-align: left;"> as well as 4 dozen red velvet cake truffles. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihS-Qn0LBMIvAbJh993AbRp27wm50rZ2cRTuvRMLrGp47H2fWPSVUe1zH_6uvlZ9gXapFS1P_UstsYNih7CHDCsUL-nzkCeorYZw2R9KCC0fo80O46bcGBWYNJeFFQ7xgOyWOV8lyXYQ-k/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihS-Qn0LBMIvAbJh993AbRp27wm50rZ2cRTuvRMLrGp47H2fWPSVUe1zH_6uvlZ9gXapFS1P_UstsYNih7CHDCsUL-nzkCeorYZw2R9KCC0fo80O46bcGBWYNJeFFQ7xgOyWOV8lyXYQ-k/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HKi6UntY8Q-e2je_JStq3ajWOkGqgEbvoF6bjKF8c6i8C_T1MbYOC33zowaWp4InW8u3p97w87YD5kQoYNeHKL0KBIS-I0P3XzzE6urYJ-UT5B4mKJxsND_XyI7EmVq0w-2o_uW-A-Pk/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HKi6UntY8Q-e2je_JStq3ajWOkGqgEbvoF6bjKF8c6i8C_T1MbYOC33zowaWp4InW8u3p97w87YD5kQoYNeHKL0KBIS-I0P3XzzE6urYJ-UT5B4mKJxsND_XyI7EmVq0w-2o_uW-A-Pk/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; text-align: left;"> With the help of my family, we also set up a pretty impressive candy bar. Guests were asked to take a treat bag home with them, and it was a big success!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSIJqQbiPZaskb-AT9fIJOwfj-Dsrt-6-SuPJkxFRKdwVxRKc6GPPmNifTp1Jq0w1SxAyqtRNZYE0oF66Was-4ng-HMNrE_zOfdAaraa4acXUS07JRKmvz8AGY3ys31IEKSK3dqGbPOWa/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSIJqQbiPZaskb-AT9fIJOwfj-Dsrt-6-SuPJkxFRKdwVxRKc6GPPmNifTp1Jq0w1SxAyqtRNZYE0oF66Was-4ng-HMNrE_zOfdAaraa4acXUS07JRKmvz8AGY3ys31IEKSK3dqGbPOWa/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i>"Love is sweet, take a treat!"</i></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweozuudxw_3eCqahxfOyeEUyUmH6SjARis-_LV5cm1wLMbed4_BCZr4peoDbeIe0LvhyUdS3GW7xVAmLLnRqifORx7x3iOY4StMdRtyYy9UaL4t4hPLw7vN9IsEDZ-EX_7BsCLYHm38QH/s1600/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweozuudxw_3eCqahxfOyeEUyUmH6SjARis-_LV5cm1wLMbed4_BCZr4peoDbeIe0LvhyUdS3GW7xVAmLLnRqifORx7x3iOY4StMdRtyYy9UaL4t4hPLw7vN9IsEDZ-EX_7BsCLYHm38QH/s320/Andrea%2527s+Wedding+May+23%252C+2015+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">If you do have Facebook and you'd like to see more up to date posts from me you can do so by </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheBookishBaker" target="_blank">clicking here</a></i></span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-64037276293134908352015-07-20T17:50:00.001-07:002015-07-20T17:50:34.616-07:00Do What Makes You Happy...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJRvY4duJgJBA36UhOBoKv-08ZpzkSNpv7r2xkfA7aKiV0g05nF3u6Ki31GhkybDRDNmq4TgehK3QDV9KWvH624Y5qYeGVM9Y4S64hCOR8bmZCHODUtiV8SPtPVeZm9RKx4yGi4kJ_ZiM/s1600/464f1b85a21f1efcae658f1bb30cb8f2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJRvY4duJgJBA36UhOBoKv-08ZpzkSNpv7r2xkfA7aKiV0g05nF3u6Ki31GhkybDRDNmq4TgehK3QDV9KWvH624Y5qYeGVM9Y4S64hCOR8bmZCHODUtiV8SPtPVeZm9RKx4yGi4kJ_ZiM/s320/464f1b85a21f1efcae658f1bb30cb8f2.jpg" width="182" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> I often get asked why I bake. More specifically, why I bake for no apparent reason. It's a known fact that I don't need a special occasion to bake. I just do. And I like it. It may seem odd, or difficult to understand, but that's just me. I have finally reached an age where I no longer feel the need to explain myself. Wisdom comes with age they say. So does self awareness. Baking makes me happy. Giving my sweet treats away, even more so. Recently I came across this quote that pretty much sums it up...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGa7I4LtBIP94hmyOcHDobUoDkrbeBmkliNOo3aU3NhRefl1WtaCI8vx5TrCgr9pV6ZUL9NrIqftSlZPHaauE5VJn060FuooT-ia5z4q-pwNyacAXkhIh9I_2h4V_MuOlwlsZIRAkh0p4/s1600/Do-what-makes-you-happy-Be-with-who-makes-you-smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGa7I4LtBIP94hmyOcHDobUoDkrbeBmkliNOo3aU3NhRefl1WtaCI8vx5TrCgr9pV6ZUL9NrIqftSlZPHaauE5VJn060FuooT-ia5z4q-pwNyacAXkhIh9I_2h4V_MuOlwlsZIRAkh0p4/s320/Do-what-makes-you-happy-Be-with-who-makes-you-smile.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> My inspiration often comes from what is around me. Lately it has been the abundance of our summer harvest. Today it was fresh strawberries. I enjoyed these muffins, but even more so, I enjoyed sharing them with friends.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>Strawberry Coffee Cake Muffins</u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">*This recipe makes 12~18 muffins</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpmue3rvRdg5rzfmK84KxUUlUCx0LYvb8ga-Mc4OL1Eao9QPRrt5kf1sKGK0XRWsww4MUWsf4B-iVTTDwJMXhdwwL0WtDJ-5_xz5A2cVtZRCV8LGc6XHRlD0jtAnuL_K6BVq8Un14EHx_/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpmue3rvRdg5rzfmK84KxUUlUCx0LYvb8ga-Mc4OL1Eao9QPRrt5kf1sKGK0XRWsww4MUWsf4B-iVTTDwJMXhdwwL0WtDJ-5_xz5A2cVtZRCV8LGc6XHRlD0jtAnuL_K6BVq8Un14EHx_/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><u>For the muffins you will need</u>:</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/4 cup (half a stick) butter, room temperature</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">3/4 cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 egg</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 teaspoons baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 cup buttermilk </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 1/2 cups diced strawberries</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-_6G5m9voRrK30-s104U_gyZnwpb4gGkFg01DUAoExb416wbn7L7UN6yvjcY-sUF_sH8g2o1nu572oCB9vYFOFOU2Ae8Yc9-eDc4vfbOP0WWGQUUUFeni_rwvyWDNKPJTSuf_OJxOmiN/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-_6G5m9voRrK30-s104U_gyZnwpb4gGkFg01DUAoExb416wbn7L7UN6yvjcY-sUF_sH8g2o1nu572oCB9vYFOFOU2Ae8Yc9-eDc4vfbOP0WWGQUUUFeni_rwvyWDNKPJTSuf_OJxOmiN/s320/004.JPG" width="280" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div>
<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u>:</span></i></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">~ </span><span style="color: #660000;">Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Line your muffin tins with pretty liners</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Beat in the egg and the vanilla until combined</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder & salt</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and beat until combined</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Gently fold in half of the diced strawberries</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Scoop batter into liners until they are each half full</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Top muffins with remaining diced strawberries</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jKd9W0NR_7R6NLCqgNytgkVK5-jkYhq4lzml3wbYHqqaqqmXdawCvLH6WWkEYlnCy4u_SeSK6sElwzNUElPMu4ALXMmpe1jwCxGSk7MmE8m38IzyjCiMjqMihVsGEP7K3lVmpoi726gY/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jKd9W0NR_7R6NLCqgNytgkVK5-jkYhq4lzml3wbYHqqaqqmXdawCvLH6WWkEYlnCy4u_SeSK6sElwzNUElPMu4ALXMmpe1jwCxGSk7MmE8m38IzyjCiMjqMihVsGEP7K3lVmpoi726gY/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><u>For the crumble you will need</u>:</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #660000; font-size: small; font-style: normal;">1/4 cup (half a stick) butter, cold & cubed</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #660000; font-size: small; font-style: normal;">1/2 cup flour</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #660000; font-size: small; font-style: normal;">1/4 cup brown sugar</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #660000; font-size: small; font-style: normal;">1/4 cup granulated sugar</span></i></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u>:</span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ In a small mixing bowl, combine all ingredients with a pastry cutter or a fork until a crumble forms</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Sprinkle crumble generously over the strawberries and muffin mixture</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Bake 18~20 minutes until golden brown</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXYTBwaHsgBBYWHgkCXXk2qeJy7DCH1vcn234y0Jhplhm0voc2Bj-QWjKQCFJG4oozj9UMHaF78DORbhXTYK6X3xK7BXurWXuILpbXfBfS7QzwB-XpSAaLB-a4MdSxuEWw4W4oAvIWcpj/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXYTBwaHsgBBYWHgkCXXk2qeJy7DCH1vcn234y0Jhplhm0voc2Bj-QWjKQCFJG4oozj9UMHaF78DORbhXTYK6X3xK7BXurWXuILpbXfBfS7QzwB-XpSAaLB-a4MdSxuEWw4W4oAvIWcpj/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #660000; text-align: left;">*<u>note</u></i><span style="color: #660000; text-align: left;">: these muffins are best consumed within a day or two as the fresh fruit makes them turn soggy quickly.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: x-small;"><i>Thanks to <a href="http://www.livingbettertogether.com/" target="_blank">Living Better Together</a> for inspiring this recipe!</i></span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-51685771354446803382015-07-15T17:28:00.000-07:002015-07-15T17:28:17.889-07:00The Taste of Summer...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_19PRNE8oBfEtAi-AAeZV5porAmyqkADUqnNtuxQGoIniWSfuMpZmXS2I3mBvX9xv8ECQ2RF0EvdInmezMZSVpHyV20iVRiPeZ4FqVYcHSqfNAMb3L2Y4TRiQA0HgGNS7syDujRKbefm/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_19PRNE8oBfEtAi-AAeZV5porAmyqkADUqnNtuxQGoIniWSfuMpZmXS2I3mBvX9xv8ECQ2RF0EvdInmezMZSVpHyV20iVRiPeZ4FqVYcHSqfNAMb3L2Y4TRiQA0HgGNS7syDujRKbefm/s320/001.JPG" width="244" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> Warm, juicy berries, a crunchy crumble topping and creamy vanilla ice cream... the taste of summer! It doesn't get any better than warm summer nights, al fresco dining, and a decadent dessert to share with friends and family. Bake up some memories and enjoy the season and all its goodness.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbkQ7iP1OJhl7LANinExGN_PFyqNrNDCFghdR977AQ6AzagR-d-zeqh0xfFD7FozXXRWwRJy0LfDzZ6Wgdybp-zHl6W2XzsbxMSd8vN2zsodNNBzWR6jYE4P-ILkYTkqfu0IeB9gDH-qGI/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbkQ7iP1OJhl7LANinExGN_PFyqNrNDCFghdR977AQ6AzagR-d-zeqh0xfFD7FozXXRWwRJy0LfDzZ6Wgdybp-zHl6W2XzsbxMSd8vN2zsodNNBzWR6jYE4P-ILkYTkqfu0IeB9gDH-qGI/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>You Will Need</u>:</b></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 6 cups of assorted berries (I used strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and tossed in some golden delicious apples)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 1/4 cup granulated sugar</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 1 teaspoon of vanilla</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 1/2 cup all purpose flour</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 1 teaspoon cinnamon</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 3/4 cup rolled oats</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 1 stick of butter cut into pieces, room temperature</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">~ 12 frozen tart shells (baked according to package directions before filling)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3ul5htjEri6x07626fUuvDNSaLrhoj8WaqE3xfTmQnAwuX1uKhAorst9qrUt4DxNOyUF46tHgLlwXIB7YE8n13yIC-HS_jTaOPZVxVTA5T_kEhRGgZNMWyDs5ujfNCysgmusAzzTwspn/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3ul5htjEri6x07626fUuvDNSaLrhoj8WaqE3xfTmQnAwuX1uKhAorst9qrUt4DxNOyUF46tHgLlwXIB7YE8n13yIC-HS_jTaOPZVxVTA5T_kEhRGgZNMWyDs5ujfNCysgmusAzzTwspn/s320/008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"><b><u> Directions</u>:</b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Combine berries, white sugar and vanilla in a medium bowl and toss to combine</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Fill baked tart shells with the fruit mixture</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">For the topping mix the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon and oats together in a dry bowl</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Using a pastry blender (or a fork) cut the butter into the dry mixture until a crumble starts to form</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Sprinkle topping evenly over each berry filled tart</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6-JTHSgyeoEBIFOH9sTSsaq0QBSugqZ0cGi9tgsY6MgXC2vEjQlT5aeRAZgrDgM2wi7B5WavTjGHb2GKiSC1EjbCXYj7J9tqUCUtL-yqDQ0cGL3fzyt7Y6I3vtJYAc-2VKraj7WT9WN6/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6-JTHSgyeoEBIFOH9sTSsaq0QBSugqZ0cGi9tgsY6MgXC2vEjQlT5aeRAZgrDgM2wi7B5WavTjGHb2GKiSC1EjbCXYj7J9tqUCUtL-yqDQ0cGL3fzyt7Y6I3vtJYAc-2VKraj7WT9WN6/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Bake in an oven pre-heated to 375 until the berries are bubbling and the topping is golden brown</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top</span> </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0rosAI-upFLfQZlAb097bNbT4HsJMtnDePuGkZT0tBcb09nzdkvNfTDqa2TqWO7YNG7R2-UG4qVGvyOwD-5paw7PzFISr4mcXIkX-DS0lW1Drj2IsDESxbOLODDBDbWM2-dgj8s1YRGa/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0rosAI-upFLfQZlAb097bNbT4HsJMtnDePuGkZT0tBcb09nzdkvNfTDqa2TqWO7YNG7R2-UG4qVGvyOwD-5paw7PzFISr4mcXIkX-DS0lW1Drj2IsDESxbOLODDBDbWM2-dgj8s1YRGa/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: x-small;"><i>Thanks to <a href="http://www.sunshineandhurricanes.com/" target="_blank">Sunshine & Hurricanes</a> for inspiring this recipe!</i></span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-75469968195020024002015-07-13T17:04:00.003-07:002015-07-13T17:04:52.976-07:00Sometimes I actually cook...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">I do. Really!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> While baking is my passion, I can't whip up a batch of chocolate cupcakes and call it dinner. Well, at least not on a regular basis. Tonight I decided to try this recipe that I pinned on Pinterest (over a year ago!). I am currently kicking myself for not trying it sooner. It's that good. Two out of three kids approved, and in my house that's considered a winner. Not only that, it cooks up in one pot. </span><i><span style="color: #e06666;">One</span><span style="color: #660000;">.</span></i><span style="color: #660000;"> I know, it sounds too good to be true. Trust me, I thought the same thing. It's not. Give it a try and you'll see for yourself.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaN9HPyssnZ8pbKUyaBh3CnYINtqay-KdGgUHQhSjGAnZKwPSxBgnU9bXjpHE8DtUrp7q7XJ3mG4X3i37utzimXZkGjCZgylNpARznvirXv-3CmbHDukVB8jhuHIcZlybp7ceV7W3VcAU/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaN9HPyssnZ8pbKUyaBh3CnYINtqay-KdGgUHQhSjGAnZKwPSxBgnU9bXjpHE8DtUrp7q7XJ3mG4X3i37utzimXZkGjCZgylNpARznvirXv-3CmbHDukVB8jhuHIcZlybp7ceV7W3VcAU/s320/012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><u>You will need</u>:</i></span><br /><ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> 12 ounces of spaghetti</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;"> (How do you measure spaghetti you ask? I had the same question so I used Google to find this handy tip from <a href="http://www.canadianliving.com/food/cooking_school/all_about_pasta.php" target="_blank">Canadian Living</a>.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 15 ounce can of diced tomatoes with liquid</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 large sweet onion cut in julienne strips</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">4 cloves of garlic, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 teaspoons of dried oregano leaves</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 large sprigs of fresh basil, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">4 1/2 cups vegetable broth </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Parmesan cheese for garnish</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u></span></i>:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Place pasta, tomatoes, onion, garlic and basil in a large stock pot. Pour in vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the pepper flakes and oregano. Drizzle the olive oil on top. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Reduce to a low simmer and keep covered for about 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes or so. Cook until almost all of the liquid evaporates, leaving approximately 1 inch of liquid in the bottom of the pot. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Stir several times to distribute the liquid and season to taste with salt and pepper.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Garnish with Parmesan cheese.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="color: #e06666;"><b>*<u>Note:</u></b></span></i><span style="color: #660000;"> above is the recipe as it was posted on Pinterest. I used my creative licence and added a few extra ingredients. I tossed in a few handfuls of chopped mushrooms and zucchini before pouring in the vegetable broth. About 5 minutes before the the dish was done, I added in some cooked, sliced chicken breast that was leftover in our refrigerator. It made the dish a bit more hearty and tasted wonderful!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjMxQLhA7kVfbGVtP36sC9U42IcbYZ5YvqEaD7ErnzqQs8OebXXM5RzdaPbcqxrH7ePYDaOcrVJqI5u9VkgB8glXSLYHxU6Mug7BT-9abqFl1DTx904i4F5ObEsydBmRcf1QqxzD1uIx4/s1600/madefrmpnterest_1386700269_140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjMxQLhA7kVfbGVtP36sC9U42IcbYZ5YvqEaD7ErnzqQs8OebXXM5RzdaPbcqxrH7ePYDaOcrVJqI5u9VkgB8glXSLYHxU6Mug7BT-9abqFl1DTx904i4F5ObEsydBmRcf1QqxzD1uIx4/s1600/madefrmpnterest_1386700269_140.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks to <a href="http://myfridgefood.com/recipes/pasta-and-pizza/amazing-tomato-basil-pasta/" target="_blank">MyFridgeFood</a> for inspiring me!</div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-47779283388744827562015-03-31T11:04:00.004-07:002015-03-31T11:12:14.724-07:00Showered With Love...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"> Here are just a few pictures of cupcakes that </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">I recently </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"> made for a friend's bridal shower.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">It was such a beautiful party!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVf9330hNtyiEv5dcXkh3p8rJtIpTztmn-9XvXQ3jl8tOzt_lrKFjITvbu2oFnf7oCTrmU91yvgLwNBVKZOfGdDpQO5hketfyjokmsLYDaPwka-MTLeol4duJJNJv77AbHjtvllUXsA2PG/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVf9330hNtyiEv5dcXkh3p8rJtIpTztmn-9XvXQ3jl8tOzt_lrKFjITvbu2oFnf7oCTrmU91yvgLwNBVKZOfGdDpQO5hketfyjokmsLYDaPwka-MTLeol4duJJNJv77AbHjtvllUXsA2PG/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B005.JPG" height="275" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOnPNJrviucxdqFdSPbWmVsWx8Tp12pxx-idT8zBeY7wEa0WORuPumv9y1wXRP_s1jrErgNZiIdRGVEM4b4lEn4tc5zIjXHSIPaiIIXJnxwH-3t9UjYe3hc2F7XFSCIzjsj27__dsLkLj/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOnPNJrviucxdqFdSPbWmVsWx8Tp12pxx-idT8zBeY7wEa0WORuPumv9y1wXRP_s1jrErgNZiIdRGVEM4b4lEn4tc5zIjXHSIPaiIIXJnxwH-3t9UjYe3hc2F7XFSCIzjsj27__dsLkLj/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B004.JPG" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWsUmZoSrBETS8-KpJEdtYwtBY9wZ8PC4mYtAndvtk397zMZzTvLVMlg2kJaG5xV1tvoJ9W6MYTb43MXMf3FWnJTB6zIODtLx9MYzqG3-4-6Kk66vciEM7XeXQOrF_TiQ9fhwMbX4ff0iK/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWsUmZoSrBETS8-KpJEdtYwtBY9wZ8PC4mYtAndvtk397zMZzTvLVMlg2kJaG5xV1tvoJ9W6MYTb43MXMf3FWnJTB6zIODtLx9MYzqG3-4-6Kk66vciEM7XeXQOrF_TiQ9fhwMbX4ff0iK/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B006.JPG" height="300" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">A special thank you to Febe at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/AfterFebruary?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank"><i>After February</i></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"> for providing the wonderful and elegant cupcake toppers!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9DhuLmrsvHYnF-7VFMUvYIo4VVuG1PzvQlpypmkmdT_Ro1hCCYONWBobpz2lROk7yKDeUuBAxSCOhIr-tUIUXSuj5flNHPXAaV7tg8FPuTizindLKgSB-iIi7NAakFmSSq7N5IS6JsiS/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9DhuLmrsvHYnF-7VFMUvYIo4VVuG1PzvQlpypmkmdT_Ro1hCCYONWBobpz2lROk7yKDeUuBAxSCOhIr-tUIUXSuj5flNHPXAaV7tg8FPuTizindLKgSB-iIi7NAakFmSSq7N5IS6JsiS/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B007.JPG" height="320" width="258" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFD9J9u3iKoq0wV0FtCcfxROgqQ2vdDfMb4vC8g1E2QnZe9sevjqCmENj1R21S8Yw6DbM35jMd4K2JUhyphenhyphen09T_ydwlUs5ERcJmWnp4X7q4AxM3SWMk5IkNfAF16SRV_WWU7OfRZHj3tltBE/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFD9J9u3iKoq0wV0FtCcfxROgqQ2vdDfMb4vC8g1E2QnZe9sevjqCmENj1R21S8Yw6DbM35jMd4K2JUhyphenhyphen09T_ydwlUs5ERcJmWnp4X7q4AxM3SWMk5IkNfAF16SRV_WWU7OfRZHj3tltBE/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B008.JPG" height="309" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcO7tlxRPROeERNkjmtUPg2C43wVK1XdRTuyJGjgzBCUDAc7pEozkFaLbzJxNCVeebn9EB7eD2Q7pVzbkmJRbCDlsfyVPMl_hR18Tv9k81SEI83wUVnHD02psg-ZSyMVShM3bD16W12qXx/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcO7tlxRPROeERNkjmtUPg2C43wVK1XdRTuyJGjgzBCUDAc7pEozkFaLbzJxNCVeebn9EB7eD2Q7pVzbkmJRbCDlsfyVPMl_hR18Tv9k81SEI83wUVnHD02psg-ZSyMVShM3bD16W12qXx/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B013.JPG" height="320" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_52O6yZX3bDa8lVWxjW7eoWXDgkjiYTb4aXHEk4_mk_jW_AbDM5tg5rHGy-2P-6MACtE1brnd-eY1LVUZQ9rSXPfeiu8_FrIUcs2MH1KVOR0RMoY1V7AjkfpqOxoJNYx-SEZE8wxARQ6/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_52O6yZX3bDa8lVWxjW7eoWXDgkjiYTb4aXHEk4_mk_jW_AbDM5tg5rHGy-2P-6MACtE1brnd-eY1LVUZQ9rSXPfeiu8_FrIUcs2MH1KVOR0RMoY1V7AjkfpqOxoJNYx-SEZE8wxARQ6/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B014.JPG" height="320" width="231" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSlvyiqZ4q2eeWf81wXW3dZHt1-GUWEytXmodimGt-xlWqCa6lkKqgdcsruKgtKvs67qc9GKLvBnBpjtt_GK92Fs_KFLGb6OIB-PihyMQ59wxYknz8xZm4ZHwGyBHsqa51HIMzVQAKysqQ/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSlvyiqZ4q2eeWf81wXW3dZHt1-GUWEytXmodimGt-xlWqCa6lkKqgdcsruKgtKvs67qc9GKLvBnBpjtt_GK92Fs_KFLGb6OIB-PihyMQ59wxYknz8xZm4ZHwGyBHsqa51HIMzVQAKysqQ/s1600/Andrea's%2BShower%2B019.JPG" height="253" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-50173093379181214852015-03-04T09:46:00.000-08:002015-03-04T09:46:46.722-08:00People we Meet Along the Way...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEG7-n2IOBcb9aZUiJxGRFP32Pv1FarnW5Tlkik3zgwzTxT_9jnqSzzeqwEfKeEhzluELzh27jJzax6ULjLUhTiOQbp9NIl4ckGv0dAbfF271B9et_h8swZm88ac13qiAL2NRZSommrgcN/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEG7-n2IOBcb9aZUiJxGRFP32Pv1FarnW5Tlkik3zgwzTxT_9jnqSzzeqwEfKeEhzluELzh27jJzax6ULjLUhTiOQbp9NIl4ckGv0dAbfF271B9et_h8swZm88ac13qiAL2NRZSommrgcN/s1600/015.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> I'm not sure if it's the time of year (Lent), the season (Winter) or simply just my female hormones that have me feeling so introspective lately. Whatever the reason, I've been thinking a lot about the people in my life. Not in a melancholy way, but in a gratified way. We are so often caught up in our destination that we forget to appreciate the journey, especially the goodness of the people we meet along the way. It may sound simple but, I feel that the best things in life are the people we love (and those who love us), the places we've been, and the memories we have made along the way. It's rewarding to stop and remind ourselves of that once in a while.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZqKv7bLXQviePXinVjbZlwL4k00kLFYjeM0p9i_TznqVmgcUdi2hErFFc88ZwpXN_r9cAZOy8Sw8QjXieGbbswVFJ8y32zUZ_2its8Rj4PSiPdm0ERNEdyV_-aklp6XDvL06_vTO1SxA/s1600/7fd5b0afba50cab69e29de5c29716d75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZqKv7bLXQviePXinVjbZlwL4k00kLFYjeM0p9i_TznqVmgcUdi2hErFFc88ZwpXN_r9cAZOy8Sw8QjXieGbbswVFJ8y32zUZ_2its8Rj4PSiPdm0ERNEdyV_-aklp6XDvL06_vTO1SxA/s1600/7fd5b0afba50cab69e29de5c29716d75.jpg" height="320" width="255" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;"> Yesterday was what I like to call</span><i><span style="color: #e06666;"> "Treat Tuesday."</span></i><span style="color: #990000;"> It's my little way of letting my co-workers (and a few select patrons... you know who you are!) know how much I appreciate them. It's also a way to show my gratitude for once again having a job that I love. These truffles were a hit (if I do say so myself) and didn't last long! I did manage to hide a few in the back of our freezer (they freeze well) but I highly doubt they'll be in there long enough to get freezer burn.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;"><b><u>Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffles</u></b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><u>You will need</u>:</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">3 3/4 cups icing sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">1 cup smooth peanut butter</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">1 sleeve of graham crackers, crushed</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">3 cups semi sweet chocolate chips, melted</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5I4465Kh7sd_tyHl1eRYrRtGnJCGJ87bsj1Xh5DfZgJG4BD6kxTH9Dl7UhFBJyDNSySMaFU_Fm7vmWyGNHBXxGe3xZFXqhC_FUvZnN8TjcIjVdhO6khrUsJ3trg_Kr8nVOfbZHpFw28AX/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5I4465Kh7sd_tyHl1eRYrRtGnJCGJ87bsj1Xh5DfZgJG4BD6kxTH9Dl7UhFBJyDNSySMaFU_Fm7vmWyGNHBXxGe3xZFXqhC_FUvZnN8TjcIjVdhO6khrUsJ3trg_Kr8nVOfbZHpFw28AX/s1600/005.JPG" height="255" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">Place graham crackers in a large resealable freezer bag and crush them with the back of a large spoon on your counter top until they are a fine consistency</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">In a large bowl, mix butter, icing sugar, peanut butter and crushed graham crackers together until combined</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">Roll into 1" balls (or use a small cookie dough scoop as I did) and place them on a parchment lined cookie sheet</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">Place cookie sheet in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to allow them to set before dipping</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">To make the dipping chocolate, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring after each 30 second interval (be careful not to burn your chocolate!)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">If your chocolate seems too thick you can add a few tablespoons of milk to thin it out</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">Once the peanut butter balls have had time to firm up in the freezer, dip them in the melted chocolate using a fork, being sure to tap and scrape off the excess</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;">Place dipped peanut butter balls back on the parchment lined cookie sheet and allow the chocolate to harden</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6I706aR9pAVUgcypO-qVfenwYcx1fu5iW6UrumsYh8gXv9OMPiriqpZCbhTE2hCyWyNHgfwNkIBCk36ZvU4UCn-bRBK5KsC7xoE79hYntxYWyR8gjl7jJeJrcUwhKLqrfXQsN7M1SIPd/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6I706aR9pAVUgcypO-qVfenwYcx1fu5iW6UrumsYh8gXv9OMPiriqpZCbhTE2hCyWyNHgfwNkIBCk36ZvU4UCn-bRBK5KsC7xoE79hYntxYWyR8gjl7jJeJrcUwhKLqrfXQsN7M1SIPd/s1600/007.JPG" height="285" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;">In a small (sandwich sized) resealable bag, place a few tablespoons of peanut butter.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;">Seal the bag and place it in the microwave for approximately 30 seconds, watching it closely (trust me, you don't want that bag to burst!)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;">Once the peanut butter has melted, cut one of the bottom corners of the bag with a pair of scissors. Be sure you are holding the bag over your parchment lined, truffle filled cookie sheet. The smaller the hole the better.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;">Begin drizzling the melted peanut butter over the tops of your truffles in a diagonal pattern.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcoYGPHmGr6wzHeCW1CsE0eq9pqNSGYaTtkev5uEnf4HS3E48-wGgw22X8CG1uIJ9tnwv5w3HJYbVM5ZYxS6hPjHsvasD_omJRUCiEb_3hLI6Bjakv4gT2InEMn6simf-jovnqB-R5TtQ/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcoYGPHmGr6wzHeCW1CsE0eq9pqNSGYaTtkev5uEnf4HS3E48-wGgw22X8CG1uIJ9tnwv5w3HJYbVM5ZYxS6hPjHsvasD_omJRUCiEb_3hLI6Bjakv4gT2InEMn6simf-jovnqB-R5TtQ/s1600/009.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>A bit of a messy endeavor, but very much worth it!</i></span> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi38Y4zczAyZakCpM1o7rp9_KMy_NYZuu0kzkVLhAHNnUKK6_AoNNor7F9BvU1k9ewaE3nFNjDYtyFYJnbyAx7jfLPQEMFdRh-WWSagFo43CHzs-_5zmoGPiZzC1uQxZ8YJ0HOI8k93y7vN/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi38Y4zczAyZakCpM1o7rp9_KMy_NYZuu0kzkVLhAHNnUKK6_AoNNor7F9BvU1k9ewaE3nFNjDYtyFYJnbyAx7jfLPQEMFdRh-WWSagFo43CHzs-_5zmoGPiZzC1uQxZ8YJ0HOI8k93y7vN/s1600/010.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">*This recipe yields approximately 60 truffles </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">(enough to share, indulge in, or store in your freezer).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-small;">Thanks to <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Six Sisters' Stuff</a> for inspiring this recipe.</span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-76926438037021419852015-02-10T07:46:00.002-08:002015-02-10T07:46:53.913-08:00A Day By Any Other Name...<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 7px 0px 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGatH3OKCGtStqQoVIk1_YyTMTp1heYuPZSA6oqfKg1jIU_D63nmrX4_wUUNGfhQmaUT5qp8kZlAPFmE0bwHD6GaaTagV1u2iisqluOGlaPUwiVq5K8YL4KLC55GMff4rJRnOhWbt1lg6/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGatH3OKCGtStqQoVIk1_YyTMTp1heYuPZSA6oqfKg1jIU_D63nmrX4_wUUNGfhQmaUT5qp8kZlAPFmE0bwHD6GaaTagV1u2iisqluOGlaPUwiVq5K8YL4KLC55GMff4rJRnOhWbt1lg6/s1600/019.JPG" height="282" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> There is something about Tuesday that calls for recognition. We made it through Monday. That in itself is deserving of a reward. It's not "Hump Day" nor is it the day before Friday, which is a treat in and of itself. Tuesdays don't really have a significance (other than the fact that you can go to the movies for half price). Because of this, I have deemed this day </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>"Treat Tuesday."</i></b></span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">It has a nice ring to it doesn't it? </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> "Mike! Mike! What day is it? Treat Tuuuuesssdaaaay!" I like it. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> If you know me, you know that I like to bring treats along with me just about any place I go. Work is no exception. Treat Tuesday has taken on a life of its own at the Library. Today, I am bringing in some of these two bite wonders. They are relatively easy to make, don't require an oven and yield fantastic results. They just may have you saying "TGIT!"</span><br />
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i><u><br /></u></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i><u>Cake Batter Truffles</u></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>You will need</u>:</b></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 ½ cups flour</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 cup yellow cake mix</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">½ cup unsalted butter, softened</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">½ cup white sugar</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon vanilla</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/8 teaspoon salt</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">3-4 Tablespoons milk</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2432Qhru0EACOBaatqv8uly4RtdLD4XOvlYp0ZpKeLO86FsDwBi_d4EcGLU4qyn5XoFEK2Dw9brvDKgjtY5gNioYrQOi3BmJ4LFRR2ZvuOWABsn01HQtQnIs_JFZy4s1ljf_4E_2Fatpx/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2432Qhru0EACOBaatqv8uly4RtdLD4XOvlYp0ZpKeLO86FsDwBi_d4EcGLU4qyn5XoFEK2Dw9brvDKgjtY5gNioYrQOi3BmJ4LFRR2ZvuOWABsn01HQtQnIs_JFZy4s1ljf_4E_2Fatpx/s1600/001.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>Truffle Coating</u>:</b></i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">
<br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">2 cups of white candy melts</span><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Sprinkles</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHDcfaKXij7d4d27nBDOX8iM7P8BO87_21xGob8ZbWpiIczZ7_8gBCtbB6OoUMvdZIuQF-OWFnu0i6Va1rdGxpCsmxxgDm6_Q7-hNN4DuRwGXlGp-GbIp3Eio1AyUwdHlR9xlXg-KYbAF/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHDcfaKXij7d4d27nBDOX8iM7P8BO87_21xGob8ZbWpiIczZ7_8gBCtbB6OoUMvdZIuQF-OWFnu0i6Va1rdGxpCsmxxgDm6_Q7-hNN4DuRwGXlGp-GbIp3Eio1AyUwdHlR9xlXg-KYbAF/s1600/004.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGi_HLiZU39hesuWAZbIVOCPy0mbWKr0qSYu_rQKQvSJX3sFzmhgvl6zSqodSRSbugJILu62UZE-w-iySvWNLq1Y2FAaV8lMzM-16B6kFHIzPuinor5vUciTZ06rJTrG1cgcrtmgiY-tu/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGi_HLiZU39hesuWAZbIVOCPy0mbWKr0qSYu_rQKQvSJX3sFzmhgvl6zSqodSRSbugJILu62UZE-w-iySvWNLq1Y2FAaV8lMzM-16B6kFHIzPuinor5vUciTZ06rJTrG1cgcrtmgiY-tu/s1600/006.JPG" height="222" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 7px 0px 0px;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~Beat together butter and sugar using an electric mixer until combined.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~Add cake mix, flour, salt, and vanilla and mix thoroughly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~Add 3 Tablespoons of milk, more if needed, to make a dough consistency. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~Roll dough into one inch balls and place on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~Chill balls in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZIV1iWB2oVAr49SwRlnydJLkUtxf5NwSU8hvCbslgNMd7Lmcau46q9sWVb0PDB8aLPvt0W0hOiEFDuc8HVax0mYT4DXKsOnrIUgAvd8GqmL8dzPr3Kqy1wJMCIn6rbJq8bSwP1xNYPm9/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZIV1iWB2oVAr49SwRlnydJLkUtxf5NwSU8hvCbslgNMd7Lmcau46q9sWVb0PDB8aLPvt0W0hOiEFDuc8HVax0mYT4DXKsOnrIUgAvd8GqmL8dzPr3Kqy1wJMCIn6rbJq8bSwP1xNYPm9/s1600/002.JPG" height="246" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~Once dough balls have chilled, place candy melts in a glass bowl and microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until melted. </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~ Using a fork, dip truffles into melted chocolate and remove excess by tapping the bottom of the fork on the side of your bowl.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDTwaPRSDsa07iIOPWGFQwKhBOI3oQViNWX9mEb5p5cWBSlvdkgolpw-wK4fc5KWHCMWYLkyV1lPu9Gc38Y5Ze8HDD2cl_kx_u_t7lm9TPyJfiWVC9hkk3SDdrcSEp-Lx-kcHEdSH6t01/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDTwaPRSDsa07iIOPWGFQwKhBOI3oQViNWX9mEb5p5cWBSlvdkgolpw-wK4fc5KWHCMWYLkyV1lPu9Gc38Y5Ze8HDD2cl_kx_u_t7lm9TPyJfiWVC9hkk3SDdrcSEp-Lx-kcHEdSH6t01/s1600/005.JPG" height="273" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~ Place truffle back on the cookie sheet and top with sprinkles.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~ Repeat with remaining balls until finished.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~</span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Chill cake batter truffles in an air tight container in the refrigerator until serving (they also freeze well).</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">~ Makes 24-30 truffles.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ye4dbyST6i3y0drPyzzTP-lC6nWZQWDbn1PSM3NgQqm89nHpTpSwxk5YLINUzbygRpvuvz_0VQBIcEMQKQI85OdyCcoEOSwPoT7veOwUV4-CV9FhyphenhyphenmRVM5lfqkPRBulfJBRauJJ7IDfS/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ye4dbyST6i3y0drPyzzTP-lC6nWZQWDbn1PSM3NgQqm89nHpTpSwxk5YLINUzbygRpvuvz_0VQBIcEMQKQI85OdyCcoEOSwPoT7veOwUV4-CV9FhyphenhyphenmRVM5lfqkPRBulfJBRauJJ7IDfS/s1600/017.JPG" height="277" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 7px 0px 0px;">
<i style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">*Recipe adapted from: <a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2011/03/cake-batter-truffles.html">The Girl Who Ate Everything</a></span></i></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-5082474178874367382015-02-02T09:07:00.001-08:002015-02-02T09:07:18.298-08:00Let's Bake Some Memories...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uu5dnYO7_pTHY6oUFd5qc-QX7T4bsvcfQX4SMnqu2FrLOx1FmmpVEdnhhqtN7G7fBHBd0VpMrCTyhrl0VjCIRkLjljN6adYqq_YePXT1v-7RMkIbuqpumgQBvBAdzAMkU6rWcf3t0Q74/s1600/Snow+Day!%2B003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uu5dnYO7_pTHY6oUFd5qc-QX7T4bsvcfQX4SMnqu2FrLOx1FmmpVEdnhhqtN7G7fBHBd0VpMrCTyhrl0VjCIRkLjljN6adYqq_YePXT1v-7RMkIbuqpumgQBvBAdzAMkU6rWcf3t0Q74/s1600/Snow+Day!%2B003.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">It's a snow day here in our neck of the woods. Schools are closed and that rarely ever happens in Canada. It's a big deal. My kids are thrilled and, I have to admit, so am I. Now that all three of mine are teenagers now, I find that the special moments are becoming few and far between. No longer can I plan their play dates and pick their friends. I have to seize the moment and commandeer the snuggles. Today's the day! We are going to bake some memories...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i><b><u>Banana Cinnamon Swirl Muffins</u></b></i></span></div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b><u><br /></u></b></i></span>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>You Will Need</u>:</b></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">3-4 overripe bananas, smashed up</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/3 cup melted butter</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">3/4 cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 egg, beaten</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tsp vanilla</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tsp baking soda</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/4 tsp salt</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</span></li>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzrH-3DzrkcmGtojwsEBiI6Ex1XZUI0KJj6pLDh5Zwfb38U9sM4FdGuKD3TndL6p5d_MA5ywp2086SvmVtiDcApRXQKCN5XU9ujSswG3mCkWKIjZBQopCXnJETDxattQZs7NJhdiw0sB0/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzrH-3DzrkcmGtojwsEBiI6Ex1XZUI0KJj6pLDh5Zwfb38U9sM4FdGuKD3TndL6p5d_MA5ywp2086SvmVtiDcApRXQKCN5XU9ujSswG3mCkWKIjZBQopCXnJETDxattQZs7NJhdiw0sB0/s1600/001.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><u>For the Swirl</u>:</b></i></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/3 cup sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tbsp cinnamon</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9YhJnk0RcmLQJLPnWagdviuglzOxCucXwtysKhtae2IwmvVzs7uYN8D5trts1EDyXb1TUdiANCLy7wyLwPjBo4W7nyAjRbkp2WtTH9E33XdLjRe-_p8mfM9TfylA25G0lKaxse32lNKI/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9YhJnk0RcmLQJLPnWagdviuglzOxCucXwtysKhtae2IwmvVzs7uYN8D5trts1EDyXb1TUdiANCLy7wyLwPjBo4W7nyAjRbkp2WtTH9E33XdLjRe-_p8mfM9TfylA25G0lKaxse32lNKI/s1600/005.JPG" height="246" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<ul>
</ul>
<strong><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></span></strong><br />
<ul>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-0"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 350°F</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-0"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Line your muffin pan with 12 paper liners or spray a 9×5″ loaf pan with cooking spray</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Mix bananas, butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla together</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Sprinkle baking soda and salt around on top of the banana mixture; then gently stir in flour</span></li>
<ul>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Be careful not to over-mix!</span></li>
</ul>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">In a small dish, mix together the 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Fill the paper liners halfway with batter then evenly distribute 1/2 the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter (or add 1/2 of the batter to the loaf pan and then sprinkle half, or a little more than half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture all over the batter in the pan)</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Add the rest of the batter to the paper liners and then sprinkle the leftover cinnamon-sugar on top (or sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar all over the loaf)</span></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-4"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Bake for 20-25 minutes (50-60 minutes for a 9×5″ loaf)</span></li>
</ul>
<ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3o5-uycEMdA1MtbZADNXmOoSFYIO5XMhjuyOikoJXiU7regMqsZ9U6fuXUHuE_LQoX8_0aF9436PQUvYyzDxBWE2zvg77y7vl2SpVhhSqeo-FEzYoB5inVmuKTZREK1Ue3GICvnhJQLGq/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3o5-uycEMdA1MtbZADNXmOoSFYIO5XMhjuyOikoJXiU7regMqsZ9U6fuXUHuE_LQoX8_0aF9436PQUvYyzDxBWE2zvg77y7vl2SpVhhSqeo-FEzYoB5inVmuKTZREK1Ue3GICvnhJQLGq/s1600/007.JPG" height="320" width="288" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHfgICQJUhOzT1hgzpU2E2pQmI-uE1d2-EB3LjQqkJqFsYHN8OB6mttXz3YVQtbge2PcX25H58qiTviZ6GJQVPp_Pj3xEEFwYcd0D77j_b_jsVCSzkYRGpCr2lvIvM8v8-iA3dwb9umUn/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHfgICQJUhOzT1hgzpU2E2pQmI-uE1d2-EB3LjQqkJqFsYHN8OB6mttXz3YVQtbge2PcX25H58qiTviZ6GJQVPp_Pj3xEEFwYcd0D77j_b_jsVCSzkYRGpCr2lvIvM8v8-iA3dwb9umUn/s1600/022.JPG" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<em><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">*Recipe adapted from DeliciouslyDeclassified</span></em></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-18788165323035088542015-01-29T12:31:00.002-08:002015-01-29T12:31:18.100-08:00It Takes Two...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Z8LoyvQOnOSk8vIcH3dcX8b7QrtXupOyMG6vAt61SidwGvE1Dn25FlqPwd5s7UvbBQgzuUExdORxsN4Cmvatl09hGXBzEunV_6fSTK_QDg-NzD6Rc-N3X1rj8LPtP_MOLEsFeGgWTTr0/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Z8LoyvQOnOSk8vIcH3dcX8b7QrtXupOyMG6vAt61SidwGvE1Dn25FlqPwd5s7UvbBQgzuUExdORxsN4Cmvatl09hGXBzEunV_6fSTK_QDg-NzD6Rc-N3X1rj8LPtP_MOLEsFeGgWTTr0/s1600/013.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> Two ingredients that is. I kid you not. You can make this impressive looking tasty little treat by using only two ingredients (three if you want to get fancy) and they require very little effort. What more can you ask for in a dessert? </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> I came across the recipe on Pinterest and I have to admit, I was skeptical. Could something so simple really taste good? I decided to throw caution to the wind and grabbed my apron and the Nutlella jar. Fortunately, I had some ready made pie crust in the fridge (I used <i>Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crust</i>) so I was good to go. No shopping required. I began to think this was too good to be true.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><u>You will need</u>:</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 jar of Nutella</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 refrigerated pie crust</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">1 egg (optional)</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Unroll the pie crust onto a sheet of parchment paper</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Using a 2 inch round cookie cutter cut circles out of the dough and then roll the scraps into a ball </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Gently knead together the scraps, roll out the dough and make more circles</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"> Alas, this recipe called for something I did not have... a round cookie cutter. I decided to improvise by using the top of a mason jar. It worked surprisingly well!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqJNyy4gwENB2vf6I69G1t-tDIxyW-XnUVB03D-vHFnUdTdBbpMgI8XTNofdTr50TeKpxbXZ5zpnrYbWBhG1AaTyBotIpqa51dqptnMQNsB5T260jUnFrSZVRZ_UYh-IGLiGMKTbHEe63/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqJNyy4gwENB2vf6I69G1t-tDIxyW-XnUVB03D-vHFnUdTdBbpMgI8XTNofdTr50TeKpxbXZ5zpnrYbWBhG1AaTyBotIpqa51dqptnMQNsB5T260jUnFrSZVRZ_UYh-IGLiGMKTbHEe63/s1600/001.JPG" height="320" width="199" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiu_tajXKZeVrRJual-hhPo2gGN-LTlaprGiU6To9atFMsCZ8AIHI2WrrqflVeFb2bAwkJs7raQB8HQyDplO_hMOPmAa0Cs5c-l3F65o_QFPja3INLZjIgRSusRP4zl-ExFEeRWTuNq0MA/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiu_tajXKZeVrRJual-hhPo2gGN-LTlaprGiU6To9atFMsCZ8AIHI2WrrqflVeFb2bAwkJs7raQB8HQyDplO_hMOPmAa0Cs5c-l3F65o_QFPja3INLZjIgRSusRP4zl-ExFEeRWTuNq0MA/s1600/004.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">To give your finished pastry more shine and to aid in browning, brush the dough with an egg wash (simply beat an egg with a fork in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to apply it to your dough)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">*The egg wash will also help to seal your edges and will moisture seal the bottom of your crust so the filling doesn't make it soggy</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">To form a square out of your round cut out, pinch the opposite sides of the circle together. It will look like this...</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrLqlQlpCc1NnaBZeG1R2LJruXSvDLRFe0ZYz5k_a4gt5vCuczAKggk0Fh5FQFmQJxQoYjCJdfjc8yI4vkBnVYUqwFzeJtOmYxmWgtzYHvCG_tmQY79ruOprt8MC3DXMSHTmsPk1rep1y/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrLqlQlpCc1NnaBZeG1R2LJruXSvDLRFe0ZYz5k_a4gt5vCuczAKggk0Fh5FQFmQJxQoYjCJdfjc8yI4vkBnVYUqwFzeJtOmYxmWgtzYHvCG_tmQY79ruOprt8MC3DXMSHTmsPk1rep1y/s1600/005.JPG" height="205" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">Turn the dough and do the same to the remaining sides so that it looks like this...</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyPOkTV5RCXrKLvVrPwYMMFBr94lUIR-FV6fd1x4AelMl5hB8mF2CzNXwbn0Po3zUlhhMdYCw0ijBy_r291X0GaiaD39YTGVh79VWUkhbwt_IxafZJDL3qYNj7yte3AbAdvTUfA4RongM/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyPOkTV5RCXrKLvVrPwYMMFBr94lUIR-FV6fd1x4AelMl5hB8mF2CzNXwbn0Po3zUlhhMdYCw0ijBy_r291X0GaiaD39YTGVh79VWUkhbwt_IxafZJDL3qYNj7yte3AbAdvTUfA4RongM/s1600/006.JPG" height="282" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Be sure to pinch the corners firmly so that they stay closed while baking ( I tucked my corners around each side of the square)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">With your fingers, open up the centre of each square and place a dollop of Nutella inside (I found using two butter knives the best way to do this)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is golden brown </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #660000;">Cool and serve or store in an air tight container (be warned, they won't last long!)</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOsm8quPr6u2_vXYwUWngIHPAZXjOWIJRL8IBDkvMxnfRdWNJzl93kW7gOIem8l2IB9im_nVGT0Dlc1ueNet9XJZKB4ObI9YxFE8hyphenhyphenPRdDwIVDV189VSjVnABBOIzdH3u2j7D88gSjuAE/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOsm8quPr6u2_vXYwUWngIHPAZXjOWIJRL8IBDkvMxnfRdWNJzl93kW7gOIem8l2IB9im_nVGT0Dlc1ueNet9XJZKB4ObI9YxFE8hyphenhyphenPRdDwIVDV189VSjVnABBOIzdH3u2j7D88gSjuAE/s1600/008.JPG" height="282" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;">If you want to get really fancy, you can even dress these little bites of heaven up by serving them with whipped cream and strawberries... yum!</span></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivm0NvVuuDJC_LUwph1ojKJH7PSgeez5l2xwWp-B5Io-XqzlE3GSeDvvhggag7x7rkqbd9wziyGR9vSTbW4dg26RQ6grjY5ZcsjNoNWJsjMWX_T3YE6pZNfkI5Ac3vIC9jrchNEiHtOTFi/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivm0NvVuuDJC_LUwph1ojKJH7PSgeez5l2xwWp-B5Io-XqzlE3GSeDvvhggag7x7rkqbd9wziyGR9vSTbW4dg26RQ6grjY5ZcsjNoNWJsjMWX_T3YE6pZNfkI5Ac3vIC9jrchNEiHtOTFi/s1600/010.JPG" height="311" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">Or you can simply dust them with icing sugar ...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Z8LoyvQOnOSk8vIcH3dcX8b7QrtXupOyMG6vAt61SidwGvE1Dn25FlqPwd5s7UvbBQgzuUExdORxsN4Cmvatl09hGXBzEunV_6fSTK_QDg-NzD6Rc-N3X1rj8LPtP_MOLEsFeGgWTTr0/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Z8LoyvQOnOSk8vIcH3dcX8b7QrtXupOyMG6vAt61SidwGvE1Dn25FlqPwd5s7UvbBQgzuUExdORxsN4Cmvatl09hGXBzEunV_6fSTK_QDg-NzD6Rc-N3X1rj8LPtP_MOLEsFeGgWTTr0/s1600/013.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">The bottom line? This recipe worked and the result was impressive and delicious!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> Thank you </span><a href="http://www.madefrompinterest.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;"><i>Made From Pinterest</i></span></a><span style="color: #660000;"> for posting this recipe. </span></div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-844057786210373015.post-38845548155858499792015-01-15T17:05:00.002-08:002015-01-15T17:05:44.326-08:00Less is More...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSci53khNccqj_uoXYhtDP3D0RFd2H1gDZceQYp-51Q6Pkdg0-Ow5NWZZ-1D4sUC3ypwX9jWuviu2tL0SzHbrmg5n1ZlYpzpC-p7ab6pi8Mh0oLJ4t8btYnFyPp-02vmfgOXOctGJhD9w0/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSci53khNccqj_uoXYhtDP3D0RFd2H1gDZceQYp-51Q6Pkdg0-Ow5NWZZ-1D4sUC3ypwX9jWuviu2tL0SzHbrmg5n1ZlYpzpC-p7ab6pi8Mh0oLJ4t8btYnFyPp-02vmfgOXOctGJhD9w0/s1600/008.JPG" height="320" width="290" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As part of my New Year's resolve to become more mindful and show more gratitude I picked up a book entitled <b><i><u><span style="color: #e06666;">Less is More; 101 ways to simplify your life</span></u></i></b> by Domonique Bertolucci (yes my local friends, we do have it at our library!). I devoured it faster than my family did this batch of cookies! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_0JvjZBJy3u8MiVKvmq7V9jr_9xXm7DcNjTn5HsriOhJ6vj6V7ZonM3g0cEc2w_d_mjoizKKDa1fGfT6197w7SzSf-3w3Kt329Y3Y1QFs4gwOQRNSfkTh2BLMRV7vy8fJru82tZnivCX/s1600/21544606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_0JvjZBJy3u8MiVKvmq7V9jr_9xXm7DcNjTn5HsriOhJ6vj6V7ZonM3g0cEc2w_d_mjoizKKDa1fGfT6197w7SzSf-3w3Kt329Y3Y1QFs4gwOQRNSfkTh2BLMRV7vy8fJru82tZnivCX/s1600/21544606.jpg" height="320" width="221" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So much of it was relevant and inspiring to me. About a third of the way through this little book of wisdom, I came across a page that gave me pause. In hopes that the author won't mind, here is an excerpt:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>"Life is really simple,</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>but we insist on making it complicated."</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;">Confucius</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><b><i>Make it easy</i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"> </i>Don't keep struggling if something seems difficult. It really doesn't have to be.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;">There's a big difference between taking the easy way out and looking for a simple solution, so stop what you are doing, take a deep breath and ask yourself, 'How can I make this easier?' Then do it that way instead.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #e06666;">~ Domonique Bertolucci</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"> </span><span style="color: #660000;">Looks good on paper right? I know what you're thinking. If we really stop to think about it though, how hard can it be to strive to make things easier? Seriously. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> Let's start with this new recipe I found. It really does not get much easier than this. The effort is minimal and the result is amazing. Try it, you'll see!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Here's What You'll Need</u>: </i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 3/4 cups all purpose flour</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 tsp salt</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tsp baking soda</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup butter, softened</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup sugar</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup peanut butter</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup brown sugar, packed</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 egg, beaten</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">2 tbsp milk</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000;">miniature chocolate covered peanut butter cups, unwrapped</span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<b style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span><ul></ul>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ </span><span style="color: #660000;">Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees</span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Sift together the flour, the salt and the baking soda in a small bowl and set aside</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Cream together the butter, sugar, peanut butter, and brown sugar and mix until fluffy</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Beat in the egg, vanilla extract and milk</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Add in the flour mixture and beat until combined</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Shape dough into balls and place into an ungreased mini muffin tin</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7Y5kpGP8MMHkjbr5duxCPsvoMJloHakQm8NlGFVhKD2WscPoWoNBV7esimYGHkbFSY4RWB29vYTk8SkFaknU3EmD2QoWfmCUSr7pU_uZdg88VlPQtT1zIttGLhT5JFPoOs8nZC3CJDjk/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7Y5kpGP8MMHkjbr5duxCPsvoMJloHakQm8NlGFVhKD2WscPoWoNBV7esimYGHkbFSY4RWB29vYTk8SkFaknU3EmD2QoWfmCUSr7pU_uZdg88VlPQtT1zIttGLhT5JFPoOs8nZC3CJDjk/s1600/002.JPG" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Bake for 10 minutes </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Remove from oven and immediately press a mini peanut butter cup into each ball</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000;">~ Let cookies cool in tin completely before carefully popping them out with a butter knife</span><br />
<div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"> </span><span style="color: #660000;"> I even found a way to make these cookies much easier...</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdB2x235kzFD43ANQEZTIccxHDOtJ_wj0nDHwgcMKYu5h7jagAlNsfZU69q7q887vNVv9l1_KZBCnPwJa6qcZA_5RVMgJRCtTs3-ExEe1cEB1TCkXtE5lLd_i-9dUusRgPsi_oPpaA_nSs/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdB2x235kzFD43ANQEZTIccxHDOtJ_wj0nDHwgcMKYu5h7jagAlNsfZU69q7q887vNVv9l1_KZBCnPwJa6qcZA_5RVMgJRCtTs3-ExEe1cEB1TCkXtE5lLd_i-9dUusRgPsi_oPpaA_nSs/s1600/001.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I happened to have a tub of ready made peanut butter cookie dough in my fridge (thanks to a fundraiser at my daughter's school) so I didn't even have to prepare the dough! </div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyftF2xVwua_anfen7k5zNVzkBlo29u7EF9Ms-G_p5vSdjhVBAhZa6gV0lslJewVgU69WGPu7kVt-6_h3C8-CjgUw1Yiz9r86gWKXj9lRc-5_KmAotyavtOVw5DX4a1zm7MD8ufCaoMQLl/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyftF2xVwua_anfen7k5zNVzkBlo29u7EF9Ms-G_p5vSdjhVBAhZa6gV0lslJewVgU69WGPu7kVt-6_h3C8-CjgUw1Yiz9r86gWKXj9lRc-5_KmAotyavtOVw5DX4a1zm7MD8ufCaoMQLl/s1600/006.JPG" height="320" width="288" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One last thing... you'll notice in the above photo that I also used some Hersey's Kisses. They work just as well if you don't have any mini chocolate covered peanut butter cups on hand. Remember, it's all about making things easier. Work with what you've got. You'll be happier for it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbMFMyyHq6nKL-nSfgGuHEEd04CPduKADVePLhG-jHtrB_VtHxK802CYSlsg9z8c-MLq9qI1uJFXrujxP6KbbGs3678YSQj6HpIqwtyvUcrPM88Q2tL8LdWk3vYghy_4PgkhLMva3jufg/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbMFMyyHq6nKL-nSfgGuHEEd04CPduKADVePLhG-jHtrB_VtHxK802CYSlsg9z8c-MLq9qI1uJFXrujxP6KbbGs3678YSQj6HpIqwtyvUcrPM88Q2tL8LdWk3vYghy_4PgkhLMva3jufg/s1600/003.JPG" height="270" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">Thanks to <i><b><a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Six Sisters' Stuff</a></b></i> for inspiring this wonderful recipe. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;">Visit their site for more great recipes or check out one of their awesome books!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqn-EsI-i_ra2XYX5MVksMtilEffAwzeu6zPbmID_PWTT5JE68XTDTKjEfqHCosDcBDKGSPg4a3hSXoQTq28_LSiHuzsnHBOeLSlqtKN0ZFj7V9ifDQ4i356dv6rmQ7LHvIuMrObWNu8n/s1600/six.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqn-EsI-i_ra2XYX5MVksMtilEffAwzeu6zPbmID_PWTT5JE68XTDTKjEfqHCosDcBDKGSPg4a3hSXoQTq28_LSiHuzsnHBOeLSlqtKN0ZFj7V9ifDQ4i356dv6rmQ7LHvIuMrObWNu8n/s1600/six.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
TheBookishBakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957820115276206912noreply@blogger.com0