tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37904551876784223762024-02-18T22:42:28.958-08:00Simply...This. That. And The OtherThepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.comBlogger634125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-78463491508194581162018-05-08T15:19:00.002-07:002018-05-08T15:19:43.582-07:00Make and Take a Meal: Adding Charm to Dollar Store Disposables<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi friends!! I'm not even sure if I remember how to blog...but I have been having so much fun with our THREE little grandbaby girls that blogging has taken a major back seat!!</div>
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I thought instead of posting a recipe, I would take a few minutes to chit chat about how easy peasy it is to add a bit of charm to meals we take to others.</div>
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I would encourage you...if you aren't already doing so...to run to your local restaurant supply store or to your favorite Dollar store and stock up on disposable alluminum baking dishes and paper products so that when you gift a meal to someone in need...they aren't going to need to do dishes and or return pans to everybody!! It is a win.win situation...trust me!!!</div>
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I am by no means saying that taking a meal by itself is not enough...I am just suggesting that it takes minutes to add a little bit of charm.</div>
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Menu</div>
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lemonade</div>
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doritos </div>
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taco salad</div>
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brownies</div>
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The taco salad will go in the large aluminum pan with a lid. I like to package the tomatoes and cheese on the side...and I send a ripe avocado separate. Nobody likes soggy cheese and smooshy tomatoes.</div>
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A bottle of chilled Catalina is also included.</div>
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The Doritos are put into a large paper box</div>
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My family and friends save me drink carriers which work perfectly for lemonade!! The goal is for the recipient to have zero dishes to do!!!</div>
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The brownies or lemon bars {I like to mix it up a bit!!} are also placed inside the paper boxes and tucked in with a piece of wax paper or parchment paper to assure they stay as fresh as possible.</div>
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Again, if you keep these things stocked...along with a little bit of ribbon...it will takes minutes to pull together!!</div>
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I used a fresh new linen towel to wrap around the salad. It helps to insulate the salad and keep it chilled during transportation!!</div>
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That's it!!!</div>
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Hope you enjoyed this short and sweet little bloggy post!!</div>
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-41128371207183229702018-03-27T16:19:00.001-07:002021-02-27T10:42:35.605-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-64191146017766945492017-02-16T10:51:00.000-08:002017-02-16T10:51:01.500-08:00Veggie Medley Quinoa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh, my goodness, every time I think I am going to start blogging more...life happens. I love to document and to journal because it is so much fun looking back on the past!! </div>
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This Valentines evening, we pulled out the old.time photo albums and had so much fun laughing and a few minutes of tears {ME!!!!} looking back at those pictures. I was quickly reminded that not only do I have an incredible husband who walks alongside me in life...but he also goes ahead of me in protecting me, providing and doing everything he can do to give us a HOME that reflects Jesus. We are far from perfect and fall way more often than most...but in FAITH, we know Jesus is in control and that gives us hope, JOY and strength.</div>
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I was also reminded of what an amazing dad my children have and for that, I am so thankful. I love my little Valentines...all of them!!</div>
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Anyhoo, this isn't really a recipe...but more of a "throw and go" which is perfect!!</div>
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<b>Veggie Medley Quinoa</b></div>
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<b>4 cups of cooked quinoa</b></div>
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<b>1 bunch of radishes, quartered</b></div>
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<b>a small bit of parsley...for color</b></div>
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<b>1 tub of mixed medley cherry tomatoes, cut into half</b></div>
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<b>1 bunch green onions</b></div>
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<b>dried cherry craisins</b></div>
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<b>roasted and salted pepitas {serve on the side}</b></div>
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<b>olive oil</b></div>
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<b>lemon juice</b></div>
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<b>4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced</b></div>
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<b>Place cooked, cooled quinoa in a large bowl. {I love white bowls, because it makes the colors really POP!!}</b></div>
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<b>Add veggies and craisins to the quinoa and toss.</b></div>
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<b>Pour desired amount of olive oil and lemon juice over garlic and mix. Pour over quinoa. add more olive oil and lemon juice, if desired. Salt and pepper to taste. </b></div>
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<b>For a complete meal, serve with grilled shrimp or chicken!!</b></div>
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I served these crackers on the side instead of crusty bread</div>
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The infamous trifle dish. Love it!!</div>
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These tomatoes are so delicious!!</div>
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Look what thrived under our heavy snow!!</div>
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Don't you just love the promise of SPRING??<br />
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Do you have a favorite go.to dish??Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-34931130097320555022016-12-07T22:55:00.001-08:002016-12-07T22:55:39.949-08:00Plans...Hopes and Dreams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH44QQoTkDhGzxrzSWsC0776lDZjq4AB05qzkPs0EZzIvth_rR8up3H3rSErJkVtBixaiMQQ5pGxCEE4tXCIEThhzgzQQ5kl7pCrPza762rw4eF0Xv-LCnCnFUi2bcCXBnf9BRnQZD4y7C/s1600/advent+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH44QQoTkDhGzxrzSWsC0776lDZjq4AB05qzkPs0EZzIvth_rR8up3H3rSErJkVtBixaiMQQ5pGxCEE4tXCIEThhzgzQQ5kl7pCrPza762rw4eF0Xv-LCnCnFUi2bcCXBnf9BRnQZD4y7C/s320/advent+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 22pt;">Plans…Hopes
and Dreams</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Growing
up in Europe with Advent has always been so special to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I remember our readings took place when it was already dark outside and we would read by candlelight...my favorite!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">They
weren’t nights rushed with Christmas deadlines and demands by the outside
world, but they were quiet moments carved into the evenings leading up to
Christmas morning. I would describe them as soft, tender memories
likened to that of a quiet dusting of a midnight snow fall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I think I
especially loved it as it was such a visual of the anticipation of Jesus’s
birth!!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Advent is
defined as follows: “the arrival of a notable person, thing or
event. It is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the
celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The term
is a version of the Latin word meaning “coming”.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I don’t
know about you, but every time Christmas rolled around, I looked forward to the
Christmas commercials. You know which ones I’m talking about. The
ones with perfect homes, perfectly dressed hostesses with aprons that matched
their shoes, happy children before the feast…which we all know is not
reality…at least in our home…and a perfectly fat, glazed butterball turkey on
the large oval platter with no nasty prep dishes anywhere in sight!!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Somehow,
I bought into it. I found myself t h e r e…striving for
the perfect tree that everybody happily agreed on. I wanted
everybody to want the same thing I had envisioned. I would cringe at
the thought of colored lights. Handmade ornaments from the children would be
“re.arranged” behind the ones of “real” beauty. You know, the ones
that were all the rage at the time. No matter how hard I tried, I
would find myself trapped in a scene that would give Chevy Chase a run for his
money!!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">There
were pick.up trucks that broke down at the Christmas tree farm, a purchased
tree that was the comfortable home to thousands of flying beetles, falling
trees that somehow toppled down in the wee small hours of the morning…crushing
the gifted ornament with my husband’s brother’s cremated ashes {who thinks of
these gifts anyway??!!}and the infamous trip…traveling away from home and
forgetting the diaper bag. You get the picture. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">NIGHTMARE
situations, in my book...far from what I was striving for.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">All this
to say, it’s easy to get discouraged and disheartened when things we plan end
up being much less wonderful and much less full of delight than what we had
hoped and dreamed for.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Reality is harsh at times, and the idea that things are insignificant when we selfishly pursue our own
interests is TRUE, but it is entirely possible to gain true JOY in this life, with a deep
purpose when we humbly submit our most cherished hopes and far.fetched dreams
to Jesus!!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Advent
hones us in. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">It
re.focuses and brings into view that which is important. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">It offers
incredible hope for tomorrow.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Mary
anticipated her ADVENT.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">She, too,
was a momma…with a heart…just like us. She looked forward to the
arrival of her Son.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I have
often wondered how she nested… </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">How she
planned. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I wonder
how she hoped… </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">How she
dreamt. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">And once
she delivered God’s gift…</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I wonder
what she was thinking as she rocked the Savior of the world.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I wonder
about the lullabies she softly sung into the same ears that would hear the
aching, desperate prayers of all mankind.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I wonder
how she would gently stroke and pat the tiny back that would one day carry the
weight of the world.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I wonder
if her heart beat full of fear for what was sure to come as it would beat
against the same heart that would one day be broken for the lost and for the
fragile in this broken world.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">She H A D
to know that her plans, her hopes and her dreams were shattered and would be
forever altered the very minute the angel appeared to her…and I’m pretty sure
this was not her plan and most likely a world away from how she had envisioned
it, don’t you think?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">As I was
looking at ADVENT, I was re.reading Luke 1 and as soon as the angel announced
to Mary that she would give birth, Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant.”
“May your words to me be fulfilled.”</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Again,
she H A D to know that while nothing was going according to her hopes and
dreams…she would indeed be given the strength to rest in Christ…where she would
find her greatest significance. It would be in Him that she would
find true fulfillment.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">She was
willing to lay down her “perfect” plans, hopes and dreams as she laid that
little tiny baby in the manger.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">So, as we face our own
disappointments and maybe our less than stellar plans, hopes and dreams, I
challenge you to find joy and meaning in the unplanned, in the uninvited, in
the undesirable and in the unexpected as you anticipate celebrating life’s greatest
gift…the birth of Jesus…</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14pt;">It’s
described as a SILENT NIGHT. Pure, messy, chaotic yet PERFECT!!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-68653891317913406842016-12-06T15:04:00.001-08:002016-12-06T15:04:51.842-08:00Classic Boursin {the perfect little hosteess gift} <div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0Q4Xa53b3WffVdoXijv36_zhfDXOkmV4DQ-5V4oLf3j6lbsujI6YzvQ5VYD4U27WbLdk2GqukUQ4fDJw1BzyMx4fD_rKyGjzeHeW-zsJPaiM-QgvEr2fTB75rGZ3goTDuplAZiPuaB4o/s1600/IMG_20161206_135220_841000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0Q4Xa53b3WffVdoXijv36_zhfDXOkmV4DQ-5V4oLf3j6lbsujI6YzvQ5VYD4U27WbLdk2GqukUQ4fDJw1BzyMx4fD_rKyGjzeHeW-zsJPaiM-QgvEr2fTB75rGZ3goTDuplAZiPuaB4o/s400/IMG_20161206_135220_841000.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmxX_zEFlKC6hOYulpTQhsCrMO17HhHPBPTTEWBfuKxiE1_sALbfyrA6iRPjpm3UWErLMxUeQjJUz6C9GK8hAg14hI56oe9CHKIFKYxyBDaOaksLxe8sR9nP1m3bhcv0_LVfFTK9-Jr68/s1600/IMG_20161204_141423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmxX_zEFlKC6hOYulpTQhsCrMO17HhHPBPTTEWBfuKxiE1_sALbfyrA6iRPjpm3UWErLMxUeQjJUz6C9GK8hAg14hI56oe9CHKIFKYxyBDaOaksLxe8sR9nP1m3bhcv0_LVfFTK9-Jr68/s640/IMG_20161204_141423.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Happy
December!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt;">One of my
very favorite things to come up with every year is hostess gifts!! They
need to be simple, beautiful and budget.friendly. This year's is one of
my favorites to date. The Classic Boursin cheese spread is an old
favorite, but the packaging is a new obsession of mine. The tin, the
grey, the WHITE, and the wreath is just so lovely and Christmassy...minus the
green and red. BUT, if you need the green and red, a velvet red bow and a sprig
of greenery would be perfect!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;"> Classic Boursin</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif;">Lisa Pearson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup salted butter, room temperature<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">2 8oz. packages cream
cheese, room temperature {full FAT}<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">¼ teaspoon ground pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">¼ teaspoon dill weed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1/2 teaspoon basil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1/2 teaspoon oregano<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1 teaspoon granulated garlic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Start by blending the butter and the cream cheese together
until it is nice and creamy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Add the spices and mix well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sprinkle a bit of dill weed on top for a festive
presentation!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">{I like using fresh garlic in this recipe, but to make it super fast and easy I opted for the granulated garlic this time!!}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I placed the Boursin into two small paper soup containers, then packaged two different kinds of crackers into crisp cello bags. The cheese spread will keep for quite a while in the fridge and the crackers will stay fresh for a long time, too!! </span></div>
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Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-70880322384285134472016-10-20T09:54:00.000-07:002016-10-24T11:10:15.249-07:00Mimi's Rustic Veggie Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6LZXf9X8eWuqxtVNTN3Mi523hduiqvvgyWVjb7yOO395rebUxUD9UPQUtCJ-n3aUdi7dZx8sDXlhI0jOM4Zf5BRIg94eWo7ScFddF3Zz2sOPRWTHs5FD8A1WqSxp5G2jdt4FVvO4fWzQ/s1600/IMG_20161019_161308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6LZXf9X8eWuqxtVNTN3Mi523hduiqvvgyWVjb7yOO395rebUxUD9UPQUtCJ-n3aUdi7dZx8sDXlhI0jOM4Zf5BRIg94eWo7ScFddF3Zz2sOPRWTHs5FD8A1WqSxp5G2jdt4FVvO4fWzQ/s1600/IMG_20161019_161308.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 106%;">One of the very best things about hospitality is the ability to love those that enter your home. They may enter through your back door, the garage or through the front door...but they are entering your home and it is the perfect opportunity to lavishly bless them!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 24px;">I am sure we can all think back to at least one time in our life when we have entered a home with feeling fearful, discouraged, defeated, tired or anxious and we leave feeling incredibly full of hope, inspired, re.energized, refreshed, encouraged and loved after spending time with them. There is a time for texting, face.timing, phone calls and messenger...but there is just something about spending time together!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 24px;">Years ago, after work, I drove home after getting some rough news. My mom was already at our house. She met me at the door, hugged me tight. No words were exchanged...just tears. My welcome said it all. "You are so loved and I am right here with you." That simple message spoke volumes to me. Hospitality comes in all shapes and sizes. There are seasons of being on the receiving end and times to be on the giving end. What season are you in?? </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 106%;">Mimi’s Rustic Vegetable Soup<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">3 tablespoons olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">3 carrots, scrubbed, cut small<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">3 celery sticks, thinly sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 yellow onion, cut small<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 tablespoon sea salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">2 teaspoons pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 tablespoon granulated garlic
or 6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 large sweet potato, scrubbed,
cut into chunks {Heat in microwave for 4 minutes for easier cutting!!}<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">In a large stock pot, heat oil a
bit. Add carrots, celery, onion, salt,
pepper. And garlic to pan and sauté vegetables.
Add sweet potato.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes with
green chiles<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 small zucchini, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 small yellow squash, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">16 cups of vegetable broth or
chicken broth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">4 cups of water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">1 large can of golden hominy, rinsed and drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">Add tomatoes, zucchini, squash,
broth, water, and hominy. Simmer and
serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 106%;">Enjoy with crusty bread and
citrus salad and a fun fizzy drink.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;">When I make this, I double the veggies and stick them in a SOUP KIT. I put all of the veggies in baggies and freeze them. It makes a great dinner to take to someone in need. I include the recipe and the rest of the ingredients for them to "throw and go". I think that smelling a soup cooking in your home is sometimes just what the DOCTOR ordered. ANNNNDDDD, they are only having to wash one pot. That's a lot of bang for the buck, in my opinion!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;">"Beloved, let us love one another..." I John 4:7</span></span></div>
Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-42871758322946032012016-07-21T13:12:00.000-07:002016-07-21T13:12:04.605-07:00{Fresh &Simple} Pesto Pasta <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_Sfr-gwfaAEjhRs85Jb04WhhSxywPHN7EAdrjCYCwWPyaYjVn0XcJ3FmZTfUDV_k8GzDbo39PG10b4HBij2KABw6FWGzcruEI_4A2GHjLL3utJsaqUXshb59VgiYWVQAYLIEJSDIBlEC/s1600/IMG_20160721_122040-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_Sfr-gwfaAEjhRs85Jb04WhhSxywPHN7EAdrjCYCwWPyaYjVn0XcJ3FmZTfUDV_k8GzDbo39PG10b4HBij2KABw6FWGzcruEI_4A2GHjLL3utJsaqUXshb59VgiYWVQAYLIEJSDIBlEC/s400/IMG_20160721_122040-001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Frozen Tortellini is the perfect thing to keep on hand, in my opinion. It also just happens to be the perfect summer salad to serve all by itself or as a side dish to go along with bbq chicken, burgers, steak etc. The possibilities are endless.</div>
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The other reason I love is is that it can be made ahead and served as a salad or made as a hot dinner. It can be served with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh basil and tomatoes from the garden and a sprinkling of cheese or it can be dressed up for a fancy schmanzy dinner with fresh grilled shrimp garlic roasted artichokes and expensive cheese. ANYTHING ANYWAY!!!</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Fresh & Simple Pesto Pasta<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Lisa Pearson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1 20oz. package Buitoni Three Cheese Tortellini<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup pesto<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup chopped julienne sliced sundried tomatoes in olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup Kalamata olives<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup fire roasted yellow and red peppers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup garlic roasted artichokes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup red onion sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Cook tortellini according to package directions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Rinse with cold water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Place in large serving bowl<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Add the rest of the ingredients, stir together gently ad
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This may also be served warm…just rinse the noodles with warm
water after cooked. Add grilled shrimp
and sprinkle with cheese. Serve with crusty bread and a flute of champagne!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ENJOY!!!</span></div>
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-77904205414260880372016-06-30T15:42:00.000-07:002016-06-30T15:42:12.239-07:00A {simple} BAGEL BAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNix2d_9_fR0_Hv2_pxhx-du1eVSU7ZEdkd4s_D1vn-jmXpJsRPjrmg7xNzkfO2POXuahWHYOoNCmvnGnaLfw8t_rFD-lLh4Z4kL1evxyLlfXGlZBSEZm0LfMJ1ayhLT2JdgpmnS7ou3U/s1600/20160625_105145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNix2d_9_fR0_Hv2_pxhx-du1eVSU7ZEdkd4s_D1vn-jmXpJsRPjrmg7xNzkfO2POXuahWHYOoNCmvnGnaLfw8t_rFD-lLh4Z4kL1evxyLlfXGlZBSEZm0LfMJ1ayhLT2JdgpmnS7ou3U/s400/20160625_105145.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Well, here we are right in the thick of celebrations!! Graduations are over and now we are having bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties and everything else in between.</div>
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Friends ask me quite frequently how I keep up with everything and honestly, the answer is THIS:</div>
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KEEP IT SWEET AND SIMPLE, SWEETIE!!</div>
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That means, delegate things out, keep paper products on hand...and there is nothing wrong with the dollar store. :}</div>
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Those days of doing everything by myself are way over and doing things up ahead of time will save you time, energy and looking like those stress pencils from the 70's!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQzxrNkotvhzqS36FyMA1e6w6vHYQTQ3_dBi1OVwMR7heToy_jfidDNcQxEfWH1vKY6Mckns3XBHyu5ZWeu3JXk8T78dnScFVaPn_A4XvX0DNGpKpDzHCyBR7IqoczDDhjh6kfSf0zCYf/s1600/20160625_105138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQzxrNkotvhzqS36FyMA1e6w6vHYQTQ3_dBi1OVwMR7heToy_jfidDNcQxEfWH1vKY6Mckns3XBHyu5ZWeu3JXk8T78dnScFVaPn_A4XvX0DNGpKpDzHCyBR7IqoczDDhjh6kfSf0zCYf/s400/20160625_105138.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I will be the first to admit that I rely on my freezer space BIG TIME. If things are sealed well, it will save you a trip to the bakery or the grocery store on "the day of".</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdfm_WhLt8j8I0fWAm5pnn7fEfb4DRM1qH_6-ivnaxiQmf_T6RrUi-EG4jZZ9Yx9myjZpD_LqWfyhFiNveYo6dYPWoEd1QXf4qOzjflUbgrnNJEZvJjoSdqYx5iX0Rtq14W3XIsCwIRDAE/s1600/20160625_111217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdfm_WhLt8j8I0fWAm5pnn7fEfb4DRM1qH_6-ivnaxiQmf_T6RrUi-EG4jZZ9Yx9myjZpD_LqWfyhFiNveYo6dYPWoEd1QXf4qOzjflUbgrnNJEZvJjoSdqYx5iX0Rtq14W3XIsCwIRDAE/s400/20160625_111217.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For this bridal shower, I skipped the decorations and kept it super sweet and simple. The bride and groom were planning on honeymooning in France, so I decided to use the tablecloth I had along with my FRENCH hydrangeas...and candles, of course. That was it. No streamers, balloons, and other spendy things that usually get tossed after a party. </div>
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I had a frame for the bride and the groom's engagement picture that was a gift and a sign that was also a gift...but I am telling you it was so relaxed and FUN! </div>
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Keeping the Brunch easy peasy was the BEST!!</div>
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I bought the bagels fresh earlier in the week and cut them into quarters, wrapped them in individual cello bags, tied them with a string, put them all in a bag and froze them. It does take a bit of time, but it beats dried out bread, and as mentioned before, there is no running to the bakery that day. It's a win.win. The leftovers have been great for grab and go this week.</div>
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For the condiments, I put out a large block of cream cheese early in the morning so it would soften. COLD CREAM CHEESE is impossible to spread and doesn't taste good, in my opinion.</div>
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For the condiments:</div>
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I had everything washed, chilled and ready to go on the tray which saved tons of time. Purchasing prepared jars of things saves time, too. It took minutes to arrange on the platter.</div>
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This is what I included:</div>
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red onion</div>
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green olives</div>
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fresh chives, chopped on the side and on the platter for the "pretty factor"</div>
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red leaf lettuce for decoration and as a healthy addition</div>
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thinly sliced cucumbers</div>
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radishes</div>
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sliced Provolone cheese</div>
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sliced Swiss cheese</div>
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sliced cheddar cheese</div>
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thinly sliced tomatoes</div>
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capers</div>
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roasted red and yellow peppers</div>
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fresh rosemary sprigs</div>
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avocado slices...which I forgot to put out</div>
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So, if you are wanting to host an easy celebration, this is definitely a fun way to brunch...it is also a great thing to take as a meal for someone in need...or a morning picnic at the beach.</div>
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Have a very HAPPY 4th of July!!</div>
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Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-33696027922037564472016-06-13T18:25:00.002-07:002016-06-13T18:25:56.249-07:00Homemade{nut free} Pesto<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfH6UOE2ZbPUBPHXomAUztJvG2e_e45syr5WoD7VQCml0fhlIcu_F2uOS2cKDRr5uaPHMspf366mX-P9-8kVPucByTeUL7ME6ICbKFbJa7V1E-gAv05iaOaEReReypFMVTFUcX3nk0TQw/s1600/IMG_8553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfH6UOE2ZbPUBPHXomAUztJvG2e_e45syr5WoD7VQCml0fhlIcu_F2uOS2cKDRr5uaPHMspf366mX-P9-8kVPucByTeUL7ME6ICbKFbJa7V1E-gAv05iaOaEReReypFMVTFUcX3nk0TQw/s400/IMG_8553.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<b>Homemade {nut-free} Pesto</b><br />
<h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Lisa Pearson</span></h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">2 cups fresh basil leaves {smooshed into a measuring cup}</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">6 cloves of garlic</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 cup of </span><span style="text-align: center;">three cheese blend or just Parmesan cheese, shredded</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 teaspoon sea salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">1/2 teaspoon pepper</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">3/4 cup olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Blend all ingredients in a blender or in a food processor. Just blend until ingredients are incorporated. You are not making baby food. :}</span></div>
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And since we are crazy.insane about picnics anytime, anywhere...these little ditties got wrapped up in parchment paper and twine...and we went on a lovely picnic at the Pittock Mansion...a favorite from our dating days.</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">...and our little grandbaby love just happens to adore adventures and picnicing, too!!</span></div>
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Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-73731003392804436762016-05-20T13:22:00.000-07:002016-05-20T13:22:44.629-07:00{mimi's} Instant Baby Oatmeal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-nCTgYmd3hE0zhJzMZQUPXioDda5MJBOzv0t_MjQ94Yli4yuHIBSz0yHJUPMSbiWC-6wdFFTv1hrQtcfwXYeYaSfT_uqCetu_gF20j9HipncZROAawCR2obsT9wad1R46te-PZfF4USj/s1600/IMG_20150317_085050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-nCTgYmd3hE0zhJzMZQUPXioDda5MJBOzv0t_MjQ94Yli4yuHIBSz0yHJUPMSbiWC-6wdFFTv1hrQtcfwXYeYaSfT_uqCetu_gF20j9HipncZROAawCR2obsT9wad1R46te-PZfF4USj/s1600/IMG_20150317_085050.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
There is just something nostalgic and hugely satisfying about making your own baby food!! I know. I know. Who has time for that??? You do!! This takes minutes to make, is quite inexpensive and is packed with good.old.fashioned nutrition minus all of the preservatives and chemicals. Your baby, and family will thank you!!<br />
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<br />
<br />
Mimi's Instant Baby Oatmeal<br />
Lisa Pearson<br />
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<br />
<br />
12 cups old-fashioned oats, divided {gluten-free if needed}<br />
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1 cup C&H brown sugar {less, if desired}<br />
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1 tablespoon cinnamon<br />
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2 teaspoons kosher salt<br />
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1 cup dried apple pieces...be sure to get the tiny apple pieces to avoid possible choking hazard<br />
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<br />
<br />
Blend 6 cups oats in the blender...kinda like a rough chop<br />
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Add blended oats to large mixing bowl with the rest of the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and dried apples.<br />
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Place 1/4 cup dry mix to small glass jars with lids.<br />
For older children and for adults, fill larger glass ramekins with 1/2 cup dry mix.<br />
For on.the.go...fill paper soup containers with desired amount of dry mix and forget about having to wash the dishes.<br />
<br />
To Prepare: Shake container and cover oats with boiling water. Place lid on container and let sit for 5 minutes. Cool oatmeal off with a bit of formula or cream and ENJOY!!!<br />
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A little side note...we LOVE taking these on morning picnics and hikes. All you need to prepare is a thermos of HOT WATER!!<br />
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Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-43036139129660730212016-05-19T12:03:00.002-07:002016-05-19T13:15:18.678-07:00{simple} Triple Berry Galette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-WSGX-C0EHCyarOcvVMqjWF1K8ASAD6Fx-r0_9Zd_G-_KREj8VKugKdFyGACTtjSHqLaRoeBlrAN9LTmEy-KMesri6eg6FBeHuD0MVg_0OF0dIZVKASAnlWc43qvOuO6YtCd6fVPunEg/s1600/20160518_142546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-WSGX-C0EHCyarOcvVMqjWF1K8ASAD6Fx-r0_9Zd_G-_KREj8VKugKdFyGACTtjSHqLaRoeBlrAN9LTmEy-KMesri6eg6FBeHuD0MVg_0OF0dIZVKASAnlWc43qvOuO6YtCd6fVPunEg/s1600/20160518_142546.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
For last night's bible study in our home, I was wanting to make something warm and yummy since our weather has gone from HOT to cold overnight...it seems.<br />
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What to do when you are short on time? Grab out the store bought pie dough and frozen berries!!{This is something I keep stocked in our freezer at all times!!}<br />
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{simple} TRIPLE BERRY GALETTE<br />
Lisa Pearson<br />
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This recipe makes 2 individual galette<br />
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1 package store bought frozen pie dough { Trader Joe's}<br />
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4 cups frozen triple berry mix {Costco}<br />
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1 1/2 cups sugar<br />
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zest of 1 lemon<br />
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juice of 1 lemon<br />
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1/4 cup flour<br />
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3 pats of butter<br />
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milk<br />
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sanding sugar<br />
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<br />
Follow directions on pie dough box to thaw.<br />
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Preheat oven to 425*<br />
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Once dough has thawed, roll it together in a ball and then roll it into a disc using a bit of flour. I made mine about the width of my hand spread out.<br />
Place on rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.<br />
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Mix berries, sugar, zest of lemon, juice of lemon, and flour together and let it sit out until it is pretty much thawed.<br />
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Take 2 cups of filling and pile it into the center of your pastry dough.<br />
Fold dough up around the berries as seen in picture.<br />
Put butter in center on top of the berry mix.<br />
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Brush dough with a bit of milk and sprinkle sugar on wet dough {this is optional...but oh.so.pretty!!}<br />
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Bake at 425* for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep your eye on it...burned berries are really awful and burned pie crust ranks at the tippy top for nastiness!!<br />
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Serve all by itself or top with ice cream, whipped cream or BOTH!!!<br />
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...and if all else fails...go for the ice cream and french fries!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdLJalBuTWzwGZ-BJ-nhgvqcw429AOojxdMK2Diq8jzSeiunQbViPozuS3-KYi2cqOVLkg18UkDgzIf3kboq1EymTkoMExl0omNW5OXRsrl1YtwXZ6KQCJnW2c1hgb6hNhjCf-ibFCUUW/s1600/20160512_220828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdLJalBuTWzwGZ-BJ-nhgvqcw429AOojxdMK2Diq8jzSeiunQbViPozuS3-KYi2cqOVLkg18UkDgzIf3kboq1EymTkoMExl0omNW5OXRsrl1YtwXZ6KQCJnW2c1hgb6hNhjCf-ibFCUUW/s1600/20160512_220828.jpg" /></a></div>
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LOOK at that happy little face!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFeoZsTxgixRrXQ-U6aNUf4fxOWW3DKdEgZsDrGLYfG5LLwUpTNLgcXW3YDrfkTQkYkukyyyOv9U9i9l9FVP32ZfOsTUZHCe8GcrsiJ0YfNFhcDbKCuYmAtQTYe7t9F26k5MBugdN6LYi/s1600/20160512_105957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFeoZsTxgixRrXQ-U6aNUf4fxOWW3DKdEgZsDrGLYfG5LLwUpTNLgcXW3YDrfkTQkYkukyyyOv9U9i9l9FVP32ZfOsTUZHCe8GcrsiJ0YfNFhcDbKCuYmAtQTYe7t9F26k5MBugdN6LYi/s1600/20160512_105957.jpg" /></a></div>
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...and our little baby doll who is almost two!!</div>
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-61520511700584252832016-01-27T13:07:00.001-08:002016-01-27T13:07:33.385-08:00W H I T E<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh, for the LOVE of white!! Seriously!!</div>
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It is my favorite color...and yes, my children ALWAYS reminded me that white was NOT a color...but it is so fresh, clean, and perfect for those that have a hard time in the commitment department.</div>
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First of all, many.many.moons ago, I was a young college student on a budget, and then a young wife and momma on an even tighter budget...and when you are thrifting for your HOME, and you want old things to be nice, you grab a can of spray paint or a gallon or two of silky white paint to transform the dated and yucky into beautiful with very little effort.</div>
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When our HOMES are simple, we find ourselves less stressed and more relaxed when things start getting crazy busy. And for me, white has a calming effect.</div>
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So, I thought I would break down a few white things in our home so that I could convince you that </div>
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W H I T E </div>
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is definitely the way to go:</div>
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White sheets: It keeps me from having to re-do our bedroom decor on a regular basis. Every new season comes beautiful new color palettes...that are OH.SO.TEMPTING. I mean velvetty coral and pink for Valentines??? Yes, please!! But with the cost of plush King-sized sheets, no thank you. All I need to do is add a bouquet of coral tulips and a new throw pillow cover and voila. Trendy, not spendy!!</div>
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White towels and wash cloths: YEP. You got it!! It feels like luxury and we have our own spa in our own home. Sick babies, pets, muddy projects...no problem. Add a bit of bleach to the next load of laundry and no.one will ever know the dirt that was once lurking in your clean pile of freshly folded laundry...unless it is still on the fluff.cycle in the dryer three days later!!</div>
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White dishes: BUT OF COURSE!! I think all food looks more appetizing and stunning on a white plate. It keeps your cupboards streamlined and uncluttered looking. White is easy to mix and match if a plate or two get dropped and the original set has been discontinued. This also keeps the urge to invest in pastel.pink plates at bay that always seem to be the dangling carrot in front of the hungry little bunny come Easter time. Don't do it!!</div>
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White kitchen {small} appliances: Again, colors come and go when it comes to kitchen colors. Save the pops of color for fun dish towels, fresh flowers and spices, cookbooks, fruit and veggies in baskets etc.</div>
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Have I convinced you???</div>
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Anyhoo, thought I would just get up on my soap box for a bit today.</div>
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Have a lovely Wednesday!!</div>
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-79907704767531895882015-11-18T09:47:00.001-08:002015-11-18T21:18:16.684-08:00{Vegan} Pumpkin Pie Scones<br />
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Happy Wednesday!!! This is definitely the most popular/requested Thanksgiving Sweet Treat from the archives...they are simple to make, easy to freeze and work for breakfast, brunch, after dinner dessert served with a HUGE mountain of whipped cream or a late night snack with a cup of tea and a roaring fire!! If you happen to be having guests stay with you...these little beauties make a great addition to your guest room basket of soft towels, bottled water, books and your HOME key!! Enjoy!!</div>
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Thanksgiving is sneaking up on us!! Are you all ready for the holidays to start? We are!!</div>
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There is something comforting about everyone bringing their favorite dish to Thanksgiving...but if you are like me, it is always fun to bring something new or something old with a twist of "new" and unexpected to keep things a bit exciting. Whatever you do, DO NOT skip the GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE...just ask our children!!</div>
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Vegan Pumpkin Pie Scones<br />
Lisa Pearson<br />
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2 cups all purpose flour<br />
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1/3 cup brown sugar<br />
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1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice or 1 tsp. ginger and 1 tsp. cinnamon<br />
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1 tsp. baking powder<br />
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1/4 tsp. baking soda<br />
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1/4 tsp. sea salt<br />
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1 Tbsp. soy flour...available in the Winco bulk section or at Whole Foods<br />
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1/2 cup cold Earth Balance, cut into little pieces<br />
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1/4 to 1/3 cup soured almond milk {sour with a tad bit of lemon juice or vinegar}<br />
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1/2 cup pure pumpkin {no spices added}<br />
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*Whisk together dry ingredients.<br />
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*Add Earth Balance and blend with pastry cutter or with flat beater in stand mixer.<br />
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*Add all wet ingredients together to flour mixture.<br />
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*Blend until ingredients come together.<br />
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*Transfer to lightly floured surface or ROULPAT.<br />
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*Pat into a disc about the size of your hand spread out.<br />
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*Cut into 8 triangles.<br />
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*Place scones on SILPAT or onto a lined baking sheet.<br />
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*Brush with soymilk. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.<br />
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*Bake at 425* for 13 to 14 minutes…or until golden. Don't over bake. You want moist scones, not hockey pucks!<br />
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Remove to wire rack and drizzle or SPOON on glaze while scones are hot.<br />
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Orange Glaze:<br />
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2 cups powdered sugar<br />
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4 Tbsp. soymilk<br />
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Zest from 1 orange or 1 tsp. pure Orange extract {optional info...my friends like it better with the zest IN the scone...not in the glaze...} I add my zest to the glaze...because I think it looks nice!<br />
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Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir until smooth and “drizzly”. {Not a word, but you know what I mean, right?}<br />
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BLAH.BLAH.BLAH...<br />
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Variations: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips OR GHIRARADELLI ALL NATURAL<br />
CLASSIC WHITE CHOCOLATE CHIPS...BE CAREFUL IF YOU HAVE<br />
PEANUT allergies.<br />
May make mini scones<br />
May be rolled out and cut with biscuit cutter for dinner biscuits. No pumpkin pie spice or glaze…just ½ tsp of cinnamon for a bit of flavor<br />
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If you aren't a huge cinnamon fan...you may want to skip the cinnamon sugar...if you are adding the glaze.<br />
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For the holidays: Mix up several batches of the dry ingredients at the same time and freeze until you are ready to make them!<br />
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Okay. I think I am done going on and on with this recipe.</div>
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{If this is not your thing...be sure to check out my regular Pumpkin Pie Scone recipe}</div>
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Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-78510891985842779732015-11-09T14:16:00.002-08:002015-11-09T14:16:28.907-08:00Pear Cider...The Perfect Hostess Gift<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;">Happy Monday!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Here we are well into the month of November which means that the HOLIDAYS are upon us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">In reading Psalm 9 this morning, I am reminded that in all of the hustle and bustle of the next couple of months it is most important to praise the LORD with my WHOLE heart...not part of it, not the leftover part, but my whole heart!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">"I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"> I will tell of all your wonders, I will be glad and rejoice in you:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"> I will sing praise to your name, O Most High."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">I can't think of a better time than now to praise Him and sing of His wonders, can you?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Friends ask me quite frequently for hostess ideas that are quick, economical, and thoughtful. This one is an old favorite, but I spiced it up a bit with pear juice instead of the traditional apple. Pear juice is a bit more festive and will cover you for Thanksgiving and for Christmas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">The added benefit is that you will reap the benefits of smelling it simmer!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Spiced Pear Cider<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Lisa Pearson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">2 quarts of pear juice {I use ORGANIC Santa Cruz}<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">2 lemons, cut into slices…less, if you aren’t a fan of citrus<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">2 Bosc pears, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">A fresh cinnamon stick <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Heat pear juice with slices from 1 lemon and slices from 1 pear in crockpot. Right before serving, remove the old lemon and pear and place fresh ones in your crockpot for serving. A fresh cinnamon stick may be added as well.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">If gifting, let it cool, pour it into a glass bottle and refrigerate until it is given as a gift.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.3333px;">Enjoy this!!</span></div>
Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-78809787362019496492015-10-01T21:57:00.002-07:002015-10-01T21:57:49.664-07:00Autumns' Calling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my long-time favorite seasons is AUTUMN.<o:p></o:p></div>
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With the exception of the craziness of school starting and
the overwhelming, paralyzing feeling of the new school year and fearing the
morning routine of running late despite what I would call major prep the night
before…AUTUMN, is like no other season in my book.<o:p></o:p></div>
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AUTUMN doesn’t have to make a HUGE “I’m here” announcement. It is a whisper. It’s a gentle change. Clearly different,but oh.so.subtle. The sun goes to sleep sooner and it has no
problem sleeping in a bit later. The hot,
stuffy air becomes cool, sweet and refreshing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is crunchy leaves underfoot. It is sipping on fresh hot
apple cider as you walk your little trick or treaters around the neighborhood,
it is football {like it or NOT!!!}…and it is the anticipation of the Holidays
peeking around the corner.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For me, it is as though Autumn has it’s very own calling
card. A simple card, really. One without loud print, squiggly filigree,
and a million different fonts. It is as though it beckons an invitation for
stillness, for quiet…a small pocket of your time to pause and slow down. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What is not to LOVE about calling cards, anyway? It is the GIVER that desires a
relationship. A reminder that they care
enough to see you again, that you are worth investing in, that you matter and
are important. God’s calling card to us
is His Word…and within His Word, He refers to seasons. He knows our lives are filled with
change.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I don’t think that God made a mistake in starting His
creation in a garden!! There is so much
to learn from the life of a gardener…and when I think of gardens I think of
Autumn. It has always fascinated me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think it is the reality of it that I like. It is the imperfection and the yucky and the
far from glamorous that is truly intriguing.
It is the jaunt out to the garden that was the envy of everyone on the
block, not that long ago. It was the
garden that boasted the most fragrant of crops, the biggest and the best, that
has become the nastiest sight almost overnight.
It is no longer brimming with beauty, but has almost become hideous. All that seems to be left is the produce that
didn’t quite make the cut. There are the
few rotting veggies that were pulled off
by helping chubby baby hands, bug-infested tomatoes that have enticed the
neighbor dog and squirrels that were tantalized by the garden’s offerings…now
ready for the compost. YES, the
compost!!! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Farmers that know what they are doing do not waste the
scraps. To them, it is necessary to use
the material for next year’s glorious garden.
Indeed, it’s true. It’s like
gold. A precious commodity and balm to
nurture next spring’s beautiful crop. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I like to think that the best farmers in the world are great
composters…and you know what? I happen
to know THE GREAT COMPOSTER. He
specializes in using every last bit of what we think of as debris and even has
a use for the fallen leaves of AUTUMN that seem to have served their purpose
and are so carelessly thrown away. However,
even the clippings are used as blankets to tuck the garden into bed for the
dark, bitter cold days and nights that lie ahead. The GREAT COMPOSTER has amazing resolve to
take impeccable care of what belongs to Him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If your life is feeling like a big heap of worthlessness, a
life filled with no fruit, no beauty to speak of and unsightly weeds that you,
yourself can’t even look at…allow THE GREAT COMPOSTER to take the scraps from
your garden bed and, in His time, with His expertise…use it for next year’s
crop. Take His que and put some of the
unsightly things to rest and wait patiently for what spectacular things He has
for His new crop come Spring. </div>
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I think if
THE GREAT COMPOSTER were to give me His personal calling card today, it would differ from
AUTUMN’S CALLING CARD. I think it would
still be simple…but it would be dirty, blood-stained and definitely
hand-written. I think it would be a bit
tattered…and I think He would be
super-generous with His stack of cards.
He would give me plenty of extras to give out to those who are in
need…just like me. I think He might kiss
me on the forehead and assure me that it is okay to be still with anticipation for the miracle of
new growth to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I may be a bit hesitant to the miracle He has promised, but
I think He would quietly remind me that it wont be long before the yuckies will
be just right for the new soil that will produce beauty again…or maybe beauty
for the very first time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is in the quiet days of Autumn when you are feeling alone
and fragile that you will hold HIS calling card and read HIS words over and
over again “My GRACE is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in
weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9<o:p></o:p></div>
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And when the birds start chirping again, the sun goes to bed
later and its sleeping in is no longer an option, the hot sipping cider is
replaced with fresh-squeezed lemonade…your soul will soar knowing THE GREAT
COMPOSTER has turned what was debris into something marvelous to ensure your
garden bed will brim with new life, beauty and purpose. <o:p></o:p></div>
Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-21776575169647875292015-07-19T14:22:00.000-07:002015-07-19T14:36:14.396-07:00Fire Roasted Veggie Pasta Salad<br />
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Pasta salad is one of the easiest go.to salads to make during the Summer. Fresh veggies that are sun.ripened are easily available and packed with good nutrition. There is no right way or wrong way to make one. It is easy to use up your leftover veggies for a one.of.a.kind salad as well. It is also super versatile as it can be the main dish or a side salad. It's up to you!!<br />
<br />
With this fire roasted pasta salad, my hubby likes to add in a few of the fresh crunchy veggies while adding in the soft.roasted veggies that add a bit more depth and flavor. If this were my recipe, it would be called "Lisa's Charred Veggie Pasta Salad"!! Doesn't that sound appetizing?? :}<br />
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<br />
<br />
Scott's Firehouse Fire Roasted Veggie Pasta Salad<br />
<br />
2 {16 ounce} packages tri-colored pasta...prepared according to directions on package.<br />
<br />
Boil noodles in sea.salted water and drain. Rinse with cold water and then salt and pepper noodles a bit.<br />
<br />
<br />
1 yellow pepper, thinly sliced<br />
<br />
1 red pepper, thinly sliced<br />
<br />
1/2 of one red onion, sliced...save the other 1/2<br />
<br />
1/2 of 1 large tomato, cubed...save the other 1/2<br />
<br />
1 zucchini, sliced<br />
<br />
Add these veggies to a large Ziploc and add a bit of olive oil and 1 pressed garlic clove. shake.<br />
place in a BBQ veggie basket and roast over hot coals. Let cook until roasted. Cool a bit.<br />
<br />
Add to pasta.<br />
<br />
1 package sun dried tomatoes {I use the dry ones}<br />
<br />
1 small jar of artichokes, drained<br />
<br />
1 can of black olives, drained<br />
<br />
1 small jar of green olives, drained<br />
<br />
3 stalks of celery, thinly sliced<br />
<br />
Add the rest of the veggies including the other half of tomato and red onion to the pasta.<br />
Pour 1 {12oz.} bottle of Romano Caesar Dressing on pasta. Toss salad and serve.<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-28930760835806694322015-07-17T14:57:00.001-07:002015-07-17T14:57:51.983-07:00MINI PICNIC PIES<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7Xhz8QG2hyEPl1Zt6l5q5RZJbj1iQAzJlkQcnmBtEsNUngCMIVPwQ5T8AQT2D-uCnpVpJkJqjEF5aGGwhLdTQ-XNLT8zE53Lq_HTo1ayo2R1tB6jrO5QoXI8vnqLftaZkx4RjtH8ZTw/s1600/DSCF5818.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483555456868300402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7Xhz8QG2hyEPl1Zt6l5q5RZJbj1iQAzJlkQcnmBtEsNUngCMIVPwQ5T8AQT2D-uCnpVpJkJqjEF5aGGwhLdTQ-XNLT8zE53Lq_HTo1ayo2R1tB6jrO5QoXI8vnqLftaZkx4RjtH8ZTw/s400/DSCF5818.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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M was once a mini-pie,<br />
Pidy,<br />
Widy,<br />
Tidy,<br />
Pidy,<br />
YUMMY insidy, mini-pie!<br />
<br />
We are right in the thick of picnic season, although we picnic all.year.long as it is so much fun.<br />
I'm always trying to find little treats that travel well and that are simple to make. These little pies are just perfect tucked into individual parchment bags. <br />
<br />
This time, I used Trader Joe's pie dough and homemade freezer jam! {Speaking of freezer jam, last night I had a few friends over to make jam...it was the perfect little get-together to not only make jam, but to laugh, learn and snack away. It took almost zero prep and we all combined our berries at the end for a mixed berry jam that was to.die.for!!} <br />
For the PICNIC PIES, I used a 4 inch round, fluted cookie cutter for the dough and put about 1 tsp. of jam in the center. Use fork tines to seal the half-moon pie and brush with a silicone pastry brush dipped in one beaten egg. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top. Gently, place the pies on parchment paper and bake at 425* for about 15 minutes. Aren't they sweet? Just small enough to enjoy with a cup of iced lemonade!!<br />
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Little rhyme adapted from Edward Lear...thank you Mr. Lear!<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-3919254209870696082015-06-25T10:58:00.000-07:002015-06-25T10:58:14.788-07:00Old Fashioned Refrigerator Pickles<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QvuEIVDMxcSeAGYh5dOINgDNe3j72U0WBUWwExyzdAokDudO9ninjLZc1SWrqHfsnORVkB8b1GE8TDj1o2FGAN03xXbVV5BuxjXYWj8TiBI8HunaTCwTmUkt-ibPwJoZ1v_I78pjsio/s1600/Collages3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494504456267659234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QvuEIVDMxcSeAGYh5dOINgDNe3j72U0WBUWwExyzdAokDudO9ninjLZc1SWrqHfsnORVkB8b1GE8TDj1o2FGAN03xXbVV5BuxjXYWj8TiBI8HunaTCwTmUkt-ibPwJoZ1v_I78pjsio/s400/Collages3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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To me, a Summer isn't quite a Summer without a trip to the local Farmer's Market. The smell of the fresh fruit, veggies and kettle corn is so enticing! When considering Summer HOSPITALITY, whether it be simple or gourmet, the farmer's market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce, blooming flowers, and freshly-made breads. You will want to incorporate these little treats into your weekly menu!<br />
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If you haven't tried fresh garlic, you will have to promise me you will at least <em>try</em> it. It is the best!<br />
<br />
If you shop the farmer's market, do you have a special find???<br />
<br />
Happy Thursday!<br />
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<br />
<br />
Old Fashioned Refrigerator Pickles<br />
Adapted from Art Smith<br />
<br />
2 cups apple cider vinegar<br />
2 teaspoons Hain Sea Salt {non-iodide}<br />
½ teaspoon whole coriander seeds<br />
½ teaspoon black peppercorns<br />
2 Kirby cucumbers, scrubbed and cut into rounds<br />
1 small onion, cut into thin half-rounds<br />
12 cherry tomatoes<br />
8 fresh garlic cloves, peeled and cut into half…lengthwise<br />
¼ cup fresh dill sprigs<br />
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Directions:<br />
Bring vinegar, salt, coriander and peppercorns to full boil.<br />
Sterilize two pint jars.<br />
Jars should be hot when adding veggies<br />
<br />
<br />
Layer into each jar:<br />
<br />
1 cucumber<br />
½ onion<br />
6 cherry tomatoes<br />
4 garlic cloves<br />
1 cup vinegar mix<br />
<br />
Screw lid on and chill for at least 3 days…no cheating! May be stored for up to 1 month.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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These make lovely hostess gifts, too.<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-33175432199153555662015-05-20T20:00:00.002-07:002015-05-20T20:53:04.376-07:00When God Ploughs Your Soul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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How wonderful to take an old, cobblestone road through the meandering hillside in Spring.<br />
Especially when you can spot whispering creeks that line the side of the many forged walking trails. It can be oh.so easy to imagine that those little gardens blushing with every hue have been there for as long as time has been...from a distance, that is...but as you get closer, there is no mistake that those plots of land have been cared for. They have been nurtured...taken care of by a gardener with a heart.<br />
<br />
What is it that drives a gardener to turn a bleak.looking piece of earth and transform it into a spectacle for his eyes...for the eyes of others? He wants it to be a beautiful thing to behold!! He wants the garden to produce beauty and sometimes it is tenderly thought out with nourishment in mind. Maybe for his family or maybe for the purpose to provide for so.many others who may come along seeking the lovely or food for which they have been without . It is <b><i>his </i></b>desire for amazing goodness that drives him to pursue his dream for this tender ground he stands upon.<br />
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He <b><i>knows</i></b> that it is going to take hours upon hours, days upon days... years and years with continual care to get this clay.ridden soil ready for the seeds. Is it worth it? Will his time and effort make a difference? Will it matter? Will it be worth all of the extra steps to prepare this soil for the seeds and saplings? Any good gardener knows where the secret lies...it is in the ploughing. The soil must be cut into, lifted, turned over and broken up, It can be downright discouraging at times, it can be overwhelming, it can be unpleasant with lots and lots of things that can get in the way...but rest assured...this gardener has no intention of giving up, throwing in the towel and forgetting about the plans he has for his land!! He patiently works what others would consider <b style="font-style: italic;">the impossible, </b>he knows the soil he is working with like no other...he knows what needs to be stripped away and what needs to be worked into spots that are lacking. As time goes by, some can be critical about the gardener who is still ploughing away. They can shake their heads as they walk by in sheer disbelief that anyone could envision anything for the lackluster piece of land...but it is obvious that this gardener is bound and determined to bring BEAUTY that He knows will indeed come. Not overnight...but it will come.<br />
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Do you feel like your soul is being cut into, lifted, turned over and broken up?<br />
Do you feel like your life is not worth it? Like maybe you don't matter?<br />
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Guess what...your very soul is God's garden? It is. He is the Gardener with <i style="font-weight: bold;">A Heart.</i> He is the one who desires AMAZING goodness for your life. You are being pursued by Him. Are your emotions shot? Is life out.of.control to the point of wondering if you can take your next breath? Perfect. The Gardener has already taken that into account and has it all figured out...despite the ones who shake their heads in disbelief that your lackluster life could be anything but an eyesore, let alone a life of BEAUTY!!<br />
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This Gardener sees way beyond the dirt, rocks and grime. He sees the future. He sees what others will see...possibly way down that cobblestone road. He sees the plough set aside...and His masterpiece blushing and beaming as the sun kisses the garden goodnight. <br />
And it is quite possible that the stories of the pitiful plot of land will be told for generations to come.<br />
Not only about the impossible...but about the Gardener who knew just what to do in order to achieve His dream and plan for the His garden.<br />
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May you allow Him to plough your soul...weed it, nurture it and prepare it for seeds...<br />
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Seeds of JOY unspeakable.<br />
Seeds of BEAUTY beyond belief.<br />
Seeds of Love without measure!!<br />
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"Why are you downcast, O my SOUL?<br />
Why so disturbed within me?<br />
Put your hope in God,<br />
for I will yet praise Him,<br />
my Savior and my God"<br />
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Psalm 42:11<br />
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Your family LOVES YOU, Landen, Del, and Twinsie<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-74848471419216069982015-03-23T11:41:00.000-07:002016-05-20T13:20:19.505-07:00Mimi's Instant Baby Oatmeal {make ahead}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is just something nostalgic and hugely satisfying about making your own baby food!! I know. I know. Who has time for that??? You do!! This takes minutes to make, is quite inexpensive and is packed with good.old.fashioned nutrition minus all of the preservatives and chemicals. Your baby, and family will thank you!!<br />
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<br />
<br />
Mimi's Instant Baby Oatmeal<br />
Lisa Pearson<br />
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<br />
<br />
12 cups old-fashioned oats, divided {gluten-free if needed}<br />
<br />
1 cup C & H brown sugar {less, if desired}<br />
<br />
1 tablespoon cinnamon<br />
<br />
2 teaspoons kosher salt<br />
<br />
1 cup dried apple pieces...be sure to get the tiny apple pieces to avoid possible choking hazard<br />
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<br />
<br />
Blend 6 cups oats in the blender...kinda like a rough chop<br />
<br />
Add blended oats to large mixing bowl with the rest of the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and dried apples.<br />
<br />
Place 1/4 cup dry mix to small glass jars with lids.<br />
For older children and for adults, fill larger glass ramekins with 1/2 cup dry mix.<br />
For on.the.go...fill paper soup containers with desired amount of dry mix and forget about having to wash the dishes.<br />
<br />
To Prepare: Shake container and cover oats with boiling water. Place lid on container and let sit for 5 minutes. Cool oatmeal off with a bit of formula or cream and ENJOY!!!<br />
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A little side note...we LOVE taking these on morning picnics and hikes. All you need to prepare is a thermos of HOT WATER!!<br />
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<br />
AND, speaking of babies...our "BABY" just turned 21!! We are more proud of this young man than words can tell. He had my heart from day 1 and he continues to bring lots of adventure and joy to our family!!<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-25286051302979194242015-03-23T10:57:00.001-07:002023-04-14T08:47:43.795-07:00Simple Classic Baby Oatmeal {make ahead}<br />
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There is just something so nostalgic and special about making your own baby food. I know. I know. Who has time for THAT? Guess who? You do!! This takes minutes to whip up and you will have plenty to go around for baby and the rest of the family as well. It is just simply "that good".<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-14377031740975139272015-02-24T09:53:00.003-08:002015-02-24T09:53:40.067-08:00French Lavender Lemonade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good morning from my sunny, cozy, little living room. Baby Ady is taking her morning nap and I have a few minutes to blog.<br />
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Isn't life interesting? Just like with nature, God gave us seasons in our lives...and I am so thankful for that in so many ways. <br />
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One of my favorite verses is found hidden in the book of Nahum..."The lord is GOOD, a STRONG HOLD in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in HIM." Nahum 1:7<br />
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You don't have to look very far to see that our world is in serious trouble. Lives are in shambles. People are hurting deeply and life can seem dark and dreary, but as sure as the sun is bound to shine again, our lives, too can shine even more brightly despite circumstances in resting in the fact that we have a GOD who is guaranteed to be our STRONG HOLD.<br />
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I hope that today you will retreat to HIM who holds this fragile world in His hands. He is trustworthy and the safest place to hide while the storms of life blow over.<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 16.0pt;">French Lavender Lemonade<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lisa
Pearson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 14.0pt;">1
cup water <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 14.0pt;">1
cup sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 14.0pt;">8
sprigs fresh lavender<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 14.0pt;">1
fresh lemon, sliced thinly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Apple Garamond Light"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Bring
all ingredients to a gentle simmer. Turn
off. Let syrup sit for a few hours. Strain into a glass bottle. Store in fridge. Add to lemonade or to champagne.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-19642874826957888162015-01-10T19:23:00.000-08:002015-01-10T19:55:04.095-08:00Gyro Roasted Chicken<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPrNaeig8M7WuhrlXcdXHYbzyOKpbqR74GahtB030_SxgaBpAUSf3MaHZE5SKt1SfnAO2LPhMzSfVbvf932hWBZVj01UrSSjxvM6YfZHi-3j2SoJ1jqe-JPqBdArtAKztsXJJx4qx7ksg/s1600/IMG_0676.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPrNaeig8M7WuhrlXcdXHYbzyOKpbqR74GahtB030_SxgaBpAUSf3MaHZE5SKt1SfnAO2LPhMzSfVbvf932hWBZVj01UrSSjxvM6YfZHi-3j2SoJ1jqe-JPqBdArtAKztsXJJx4qx7ksg/s400/IMG_0676.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594896494627976658" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Since I have had enough requests for MEAT lately, I thought I would post the easiest recipe for roasted chicken with a twist.<br />
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This will probably be the only time I will have a picture of raw meat on this blog, too! :}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMY2bvsaAaQC1c0fpJIJaOvkV3pHQ80vkTkhWxkXJExYEM6vQOgz9J-S-WHNBmVN4R1vm7UV4lhaw8FG1aMMYq5VMzK1UGkZPtJghzQqnLORvb0KY981St7RUmDSFfwmF8TiH_6JBYMoo/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMY2bvsaAaQC1c0fpJIJaOvkV3pHQ80vkTkhWxkXJExYEM6vQOgz9J-S-WHNBmVN4R1vm7UV4lhaw8FG1aMMYq5VMzK1UGkZPtJghzQqnLORvb0KY981St7RUmDSFfwmF8TiH_6JBYMoo/s400/IMG_0659.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594728709402800738" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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My son has convinced me that roasted chicken is the way to go. It is easy and one little baak baak chicken can go a LONG way...maybe toooooo long if you ask me.<br />
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If you have a hectic day on the agenda, this will take a bit of planning {soaking the chicken in kosher salt overnight}, but other than that, the smells of your home come dinner time is sure to please everybody!!<br />
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Gyro Roasted Chicken<br />
Lisa Pearson<br />
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1 whole free-range, organic chicken 4-6 lbs.{also available at TRADER JOE'S...more expensive but worth it!}OR 4 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts.<br />
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4 cloves of garlic<br />
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2 Tbsp. olive oil<br />
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1/2 cup plain yogurt<br />
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2 Tbsp. oregano<br />
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a few sprigs of thyme...I use ALOT<br />
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salt and pepper<br />
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1 lemon, sliced<br />
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*Soak chicken in kosher salt overnight.<br />
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*Rinse thoroughly with cold water.<br />
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*Pat dry with paper towels.<br />
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*Place garlic, oil, yogurt, and oregano into blender and blend away!<br />
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*Place chicken in roasting pan with the breast side up.<br />
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*Stuff thyme between skin and breast.<br />
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*Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground pepper and place lemon slices on top and in the cavity.<br />
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Place in preheated 425* oven for 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to 350* and bake for about 1 1/2 hrs. Chicken is done when thermometer reads 170-180* {test near hip joint near thigh}. Cover and let sit at least 10 minutes. {thank you to my hubby and Caleb for teaching me this!}<br />
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It sounds a bit complicated, but once you do it once, it will take minutes to do! PROMISE! If I can roast a chicken without burning the house down...anybody can do it.<br />
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ANYHOO, this is how our dinner will be prepped for tonight:<br />
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Chicken is marinating in the yogurt sauce in the roaster pan for the day...did that this am.<br />
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Before company arrives, the table will be set, the GREEK SALAD with balsamic vinaigrette will be made...and the TZATZIKI sauce will be made also. If you don't wanna make the sauces or dressings, TRADER JOE'S has really good ones, but I have a cucumber that needs to be used and I have the rest of the ingredients, too...so I will just make them.<br />
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Flatbread is also available from TRADER JOE's...so that is it. Just serve the chicken on a platter and let everybody make their own Greek sandwiches!!<br />
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For a Greek salad: simply add thin slices of red onion, cucumber chunks, pepperoncini peppers, Kalamata olives. grape tomatoes, feta cheese and falafel crumbles and slices of chicken. EASY PEASY for a company's comin' for dinner kinda day! Served with toasted pita bread on the side.<br />
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A Greek "taco bar" is another great option for a party. You can provide the meat and delegate the toppings and pita bread/flatbread out.<br />
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...and it is a fantastic dinner to take to someone in need.<br />
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Look at our darling grand baby!! She was literally climbing up me to get her legs back to kicking in the water. She is just the best little bundle of love and wiggles...<br />
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-76832195969841013122014-12-12T16:08:00.002-08:002014-12-12T16:14:42.883-08:00Scott's Firehouse Herb Roasted Potatoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We are at that time of year where most of us are feeling the "crunch" time of Christmas. It is that time where our family looks forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus as we get together with loved ones and share memories of past Christmases and look forward to many more years of being together...but honestly, I am craving a much.simpler.Christmas <b><i>this</i></b> year than ever before. I think the way our world has been shaken this year has put things in a much clearer perspective for me.<br />
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I don't want the glamour and the glitz and the fancy.schmanzy.dinners to dictate this season. I want the "come on over in your jammies and enjoy leftover soup" nights. The ones where our children pop in un-announced and jump in our bed on their way home from a late night date night...and chat with us...the kind where I burn dinner and my hubby runs to get a pizza from Dominoes. Using stacks of soft cloth napkins that haven't seen an iron in forever. {Notice the wrinkled napkin in the picture!!} You know.Simple.Real.Home-y and Cozy.<br />
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Not that I am not looking forward to a few festive parties, a dress-up concert and a few evenings out at restaurants with white-dressed waiters and fresh-pressed tablecloths and candlelight...but you know what I mean...<br />
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Now that I am off my soapbox, it is nice to have a few go-to recipes for Christmas that take very little time to prepare. <br />
Potatoes are a comfort food, they are economical and they smell oh.so.good. It is as if they are inviting your guests to take off their shoes, put on their slippers, and stay for awhile and be still.<br />
I hope in the hustle and bustle of the season you will find His comfort and His JOY as you reflect on the birth of this tiny baby that gives us HOPE and the gift of everlasting life...the greatest gift EVER!!<br />
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<b>Scott's Firehouse Herbed Roasted Potatoes with Garlic Cream</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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12 baby red potatoes, squeaky clean, and cut into bite-sized pieces <o:p></o:p></div>
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1/2 cup butter, melted<o:p></o:p></div>
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freshly ground pepper to taste<o:p></o:p></div>
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fresh rosemary... a small sprig or about 1/2 teaspoon<o:p></o:p></div>
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fresh thyme...a sprinkling or about 1/2 teaspoon<o:p></o:p></div>
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sea salt to taste<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Directions:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Melt butter in a large baking dish<o:p></o:p></div>
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Place potatoes on top of the melted butter.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sprinkle with seasonings and stir a bit<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bake @ 350* for about 30 minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Remove from oven and stir a bit to cover potaoes with yummy
butter<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bake for at least another 20 minutes or until taters are
tender<o:p></o:p></div>
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ENJOY!<br />
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Grammy and baby Ady</div>
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790455187678422376.post-34393660811458745952014-11-23T17:38:00.001-08:002014-11-23T17:38:33.524-08:00Learning to Love...Better Late than Never<br />
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<br />
{five generations}<br />
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There is no doubt about it, everybody has a different definition of what love is, how it acts, how it should work and maybe more than anything...it seems to be summed up better in one's mind as to what LOVE isn't!!<br />
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With life full of disappointments, trials, seasons of pain and of bitterness and frustration, real love can take a backseat and become all about what is in it for us. Love, as God intended it to be, is to be willing to give everything while expecting nothing in return.<br />
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It wasn't too long ago that I read this quote, "<b><i>LOVE your parents. We are so busy growing up, we</i></b> <b><i>often forget they are also growing old</i></b>." {author unknown} For some strange reason, it went right through my heart like a sharp knife stinging at the thought of how selfish I can get in very little time. <br />
We have a tendency to get overly busy with our lives, our families, our children, our vacations, our jobs, our responsibilities, our friends, our...<b>our</b>...<i style="font-weight: bold;">OUR. </i>YES, it is easy to assume our parents would rather be alone, watch their evening shows, go to bed at 7pm, not be bothered with our craziness, our drama and everything else that has been methodically filed away in our pre-conceived ideas of the elderly. <br />
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It took me a few minutes to gather my thoughts and to have a "COME to JESUS MEETING" with myself.<br />
Why is it so easy to love feeling loved and yet so difficult to take the extra steps to make others feel exactly how we thrive on being treated?<br />
If you are wondering how on earth to love, just think about the ways others love you and if you are feeling unloved, insignificant and have no idea where to start...think about how you would like to be cared for and find somebody who needs it.<br />
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It just so happens that over the last little bit, my momma tank has been filled to the tippy top, to the point of overflowing. Our children have been stopping in to just check on me when my sweetie has been on long work shifts, calling to chat, inviting me to dinner, bringing the new grand puppy over for some grammy cuddles and the list goes on. I have felt so loved.so needed,so valuable. I asked God to really slow my heart down and have asked Him to nudge me to be more sensitive to my parents and to my in.laws. because, as young as they are, they are getting older and they need their children to contribute to them feeling LOVED.NEEDED.VALUED.<br />
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It has taken me a long time to really get it and I am far from mastering this, but somehow, through the extra tlc, I have been shown, it makes me long to really love. More importantly, I want to clear some of the "busy" and make a concerted effort to bless them by saying "yes" to tea on Saturday, "yes" to Sunday night family dinners, taking them dinner and taking a nap on their recliner {because my momma loves when I relax in their home!!} baking them cookies, taking them to doctor appointments, helping with extra housework, helping organize their garage, taking things they no longer need to goodwill, taking the mommas flowers just because, taking them on field trips to see the Christmas lights, helping them with celebrations in their homes...It is a simple act of "washing their feet". Jesus set the example:<br />
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<span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet." John 13:14</span></h1>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLmOznIh2tDZpoIwHIjwlkvaRP2ZhNAAPGHkLS0LKNxBnG1oE-RoMskeE9_oCBDETuN9tITfqIPlK9-JCufRwjfvZlOfpP3yMdDUxc4Rh1NVf9jToowzDHv-XK10GvPNo5yB4JlJCkIgj/s1600/generations-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLmOznIh2tDZpoIwHIjwlkvaRP2ZhNAAPGHkLS0LKNxBnG1oE-RoMskeE9_oCBDETuN9tITfqIPlK9-JCufRwjfvZlOfpP3yMdDUxc4Rh1NVf9jToowzDHv-XK10GvPNo5yB4JlJCkIgj/s1600/generations-001.jpg" height="400" width="315" /></a></div>
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{four generations}</div>
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With this week being Thanksgiving, thank God for your parents...and if they are no longer with you, maybe you can find a special somebody who is GROWING OLDER who needs to feel loved, valued and needed. How can you encourage them?</div>
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I am already excited about the next time my momma offers to spend the night when my sweetie is working...and we will cuddle in our big.ole.bed and fall asleep talking til our speech slows down as we drift to sleep...because this busy girl wants their growing older years to be THE BEST years of their lives. </div>
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<br />Thepearsonfamileehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08668483784899463107noreply@blogger.com1