tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18687413281536007992024-03-24T12:44:22.352-05:00Pies and ApronsChristine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.comBlogger399125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-42355221347845769042013-01-20T17:37:00.001-06:002013-01-20T17:37:14.161-06:00Friday is PIE DAY!There has been a fair amount of pie experimentation going on around here in the past few weeks. It just seems like the new year is fit for diving in and trying some new combinations and techniques. Plus, National Pie Day is January 23rd (yes! it really is!), so I feel the need to bust out some fresh ideas in honor of the day. Of course, this means you will be treated to some Pie Day posts once I nail some of these new recipes!<br />
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In the meantime, here is a sneak peek at what has been happening in my kitchen.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tShgcVFt1I8/UPx8wAUstcI/AAAAAAAAGIg/panw-6szQlk/s1600/dec2012+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tShgcVFt1I8/UPx8wAUstcI/AAAAAAAAGIg/panw-6szQlk/s1600/dec2012+028.JPG" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ingredients-dried pineapple, candied ginger,</div>
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dried cherries, dark chocolate, </div>
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and crystallized ginger-</div>
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waiting to find their place in a pie</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K11NIiI_jx8/UPx8vIg4asI/AAAAAAAAGIY/DOQyLpTNMlc/s1600/dec2012+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K11NIiI_jx8/UPx8vIg4asI/AAAAAAAAGIY/DOQyLpTNMlc/s1600/dec2012+022.JPG" height="320" width="201" /></a></div>
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I love, love, love, tart pies, </div>
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so I'm mixing citrus into many of the pies.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qlz9Gkc8Tl8/UPx8yBvuOpI/AAAAAAAAGIw/sY-USqmBGy0/s1600/dec2012+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qlz9Gkc8Tl8/UPx8yBvuOpI/AAAAAAAAGIw/sY-USqmBGy0/s1600/dec2012+041.JPG" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
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Apples, pears, and cranberries peeled and ready to go.</div>
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Classic pairings for winter pies!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsKKXHVKoyw/UPx8xWnzc7I/AAAAAAAAGIo/s4Ek2zsjHhc/s1600/dec2012+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsKKXHVKoyw/UPx8xWnzc7I/AAAAAAAAGIo/s4Ek2zsjHhc/s1600/dec2012+044.JPG" height="320" width="312" /></a></div>
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An assortment of finished pies, ready for tasting!</div>
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Any suggestions for pies you would like to see here?</div>
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Let me know!</div>
Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-17931541357298445802013-01-17T15:59:00.000-06:002013-01-17T15:59:10.529-06:00A fresh look.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We often live with things that are inefficient just because that is the way they have always been. Then one day it strikes you that a quick change would make life so much easier. Sometimes, it just takes a fresh look to come up with a better solution. This all sounds like it could be some deep life lesson, but in this case, I'm talking about my cupboards. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGlmmdfuTmE/UPhvW0pp6_I/AAAAAAAAGH4/_3SPhScEE20/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGlmmdfuTmE/UPhvW0pp6_I/AAAAAAAAGH4/_3SPhScEE20/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+006.JPG" height="218" width="320" /></a></div>
Our kitchen is small and one of my only surfaces is right in front of this cupboard, making the top shelf difficult to reach while I am preparing anything on that board (which is always). After months (ok years) of struggling to reach the things I was using at nearly every meal, I finally realized that simply moving the position of the shelves would solve my problem.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VtY7h-2KYvg/UPhvcc0g_EI/AAAAAAAAGII/cspBJA_9MrY/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VtY7h-2KYvg/UPhvcc0g_EI/AAAAAAAAGII/cspBJA_9MrY/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+008.JPG" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
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A quick swippy swap of the shelves, and I was ready to rearrange. Now all my everyday oils, vinegars, spices etc are in reach on the bottom shelf, and items I use less often are on the top shelf. Hallelujah.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HmgKC2w3eQY/UPhvb4xcYeI/AAAAAAAAGIA/QmYCLEES6jg/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HmgKC2w3eQY/UPhvb4xcYeI/AAAAAAAAGIA/QmYCLEES6jg/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+007.JPG" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
It is a good exercise from time to time to take a look at the areas in your house that are used everyday.<br />
This could be the kitchen, the coat closet, the bathroom, or a single drawer. Are these areas set up to be most efficient for you? Even the best of organizers can have blind spots, and it's easy to just keep doing what you always do. Small changes can have a big impact!<br />
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Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-76037602453910784792013-01-16T11:42:00.002-06:002013-01-16T11:42:32.758-06:00January readingJanuary in Minnesota is best seen through with big stacks of books and a long Netflix queue.<br />
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I read a lot all year 'round, but this time of year our coffee and side tables groan a bit under the extra weight of winter reading materials. This is the stack currently holding my attention.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--tszAfa9JuY/UPbCtTcD3BI/AAAAAAAAGHA/EGSeITJUey0/s1600/dec2012+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--tszAfa9JuY/UPbCtTcD3BI/AAAAAAAAGHA/EGSeITJUey0/s1600/dec2012+046.JPG" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
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<b>Creative, Inc</b>. </div>
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Meg Mateo Ilasco and Joy Deangdeelert Cho</div>
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Recharging my vision and focus for my freelance work this year.</div>
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If you are a creative freelancer, this book is a must!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEgwfpGN4aY/UPbCuJX767I/AAAAAAAAGHI/aOMWA5Ne5dQ/s1600/dec2012+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEgwfpGN4aY/UPbCuJX767I/AAAAAAAAGHI/aOMWA5Ne5dQ/s1600/dec2012+047.JPG" height="320" width="232" /></a></div>
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<b>Night Circus</b></div>
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Erin Morgenstern</div>
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This was a Christmas gift from a friend. I just finished it, and loved every minute of it.</div>
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A little magic, dreaming, and plenty of starry skies are a perfect antidote for winter.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NE24F2nP_ug/UPbCuiqfGFI/AAAAAAAAGHQ/atdGxK-B0-s/s1600/dec2012+049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NE24F2nP_ug/UPbCuiqfGFI/AAAAAAAAGHQ/atdGxK-B0-s/s1600/dec2012+049.JPG" height="320" width="232" /></a></div>
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<b>Undoing</b></div>
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poems by James Cihlar</div>
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On my latest trip to the library, I was delighted to find<br />
this book of poemsby a local writer (and acquaintance!).<br />
I sometimes forget to read poetry regularly,</div>
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so I like getting gentle reminders to do so.<br />
I've just barely dipped a toe into this collection,</div>
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and am looking forward to exploring these very personal portraits.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iyt0O-VKKAQ/UPbCvADHGiI/AAAAAAAAGHY/3146smOGc98/s1600/dec2012+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iyt0O-VKKAQ/UPbCvADHGiI/AAAAAAAAGHY/3146smOGc98/s1600/dec2012+050.JPG" height="320" width="279" /></a></div>
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<b>Whatever Happened to Sunday Dinner?</b></div>
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<i>A year of Italian menus with 250 recipes that celebrate family</i></div>
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Lisa Caponigri</div>
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That is a very good question, and I love the idea<br />
of hosting Sunday dinners-</div>
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whether for family or created family.<br />
I'm compiling a list of recipes to try,</div>
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so maybe you'll get an invitation one of these days.....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NFlcIqhRPqo/UPbCv8VfUCI/AAAAAAAAGHg/l-ChRz8oPq4/s1600/dec2012+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NFlcIqhRPqo/UPbCv8VfUCI/AAAAAAAAGHg/l-ChRz8oPq4/s1600/dec2012+052.JPG" height="320" width="223" /></a></div>
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<b>Seed Savers Exchange Catalog</b></div>
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Seed catalogs are a staple for winter dreaming and scheming,</div>
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and Seed Savers offers a lot of eye candy. </div>
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What will you be planting in your garden this spring?</div>
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If you are not yet familiar with Seed Savers,</div>
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please take a peek at their <a href="http://www.seedsavers.org/">website </a>and fall in love like I have.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PqLmI_DyGxM/UPbCwTpUFYI/AAAAAAAAGHo/N9G8CdLka7U/s1600/dec2012+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PqLmI_DyGxM/UPbCwTpUFYI/AAAAAAAAGHo/N9G8CdLka7U/s1600/dec2012+054.JPG" height="320" width="301" /></a></div>
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<b>Once There Were Castles</b></div>
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<i>Lost Mansions and Estates of the Twin Cities</i></div>
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Larry Millet</div>
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My hubby and I are both like to geek out on architecture.</div>
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He is the one who picked this up on the last library trip,</div>
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but I can't stop gazing at the amazing craftsmanship and details in these homes</div>
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What are you reading?</div>
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Are you in a book club?</div>
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Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-39324612033648244732012-10-24T14:46:00.000-05:002012-10-24T14:46:34.120-05:00Easy trick for your treats.<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BtWhxxmkXto/UIVuPRn7FoI/AAAAAAAAFqk/W06-t2_KHdA/s1600/Halloween1+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BtWhxxmkXto/UIVuPRn7FoI/AAAAAAAAFqk/W06-t2_KHdA/s320/Halloween1+013.JPG" width="187" /></a></div>
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Halloween is only a week away!</div>
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Never fear-there is still time to add some spooky decor to your home,</div>
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or pull together a last minute party for the weekend.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-23-jmWDR7Jg/UIVuO_rgN3I/AAAAAAAAFqo/C0C36D0uMo4/s1600/Halloween1+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-23-jmWDR7Jg/UIVuO_rgN3I/AAAAAAAAFqo/C0C36D0uMo4/s320/Halloween1+007.JPG" width="249" /></a></div>
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These little cuties will add a festive touch to party snacks.</div>
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Sprinkle a few around the room, </div>
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or use as individual treat containers at each place setting.</div>
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Simply adhere scrapbooking borders to jelly jars,</div>
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(glue dots work like a charm)</div>
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then fill with seasonal treats.</div>
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Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-6191478982941014972012-10-19T12:52:00.002-05:002012-10-19T12:55:36.569-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<br />
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<img border="0" height="213" nea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LUIafuHaq88/UIF2XNumA0I/AAAAAAAAFpg/0Yu1gR18x1s/s320/Charleston+Pie+016.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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On a recent trip to Charleston and Savannah we ate ourselves silly, and sampled many desserts, including a much anticipated stop at Back In the Day Bakery. Still, I only managed to eat one slice of pie. I'm still not sure how I let that happen, and might have to demand a retry. Luckily, the one slice we did find (completely unexpectedly in a small coffee shop) was fantastic-a simple pecan- not too sweet, not too goopy, and<em> heavy</em> on the pecans. Pecans pie is, of course, a Southern staple, but in Charleston coconut cake is queen. I was amazed by the sheer number of coconut cakes we saw on display everywhere we went. Definitely the signature dessert of Charleston.</div>
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This pie combines pecans and coconut into one luscious, decidedly Southern treat.<br />
My ode to Charleston.<br />
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<strong>Charleston Pie</strong><br />
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single 9" pie crust<br />
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1 cup shredded sweetened coconut<br />
1 cup whole pecans<br />
2 eggs<br />
1/2 cup pure maple syrup<br />
1/3 cup brown sugar<br />
3 T butter, melted<br />
1 T vanilla<br />
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-preheat oven to 350 degrees<br />
-layer coconut into prepared pie crust<br />
-beat eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, butter and vanilla until well blended<br />
-stir pecans into mixture<br />
-pour mixture over top of coconut, being sure to cover all coconut<br />
-bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J6bE77VZttk/UIF2VCbldMI/AAAAAAAAFpI/Pcp50HSC3o4/s1600/Charleston+Pie+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" nea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J6bE77VZttk/UIF2VCbldMI/AAAAAAAAFpI/Pcp50HSC3o4/s320/Charleston+Pie+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gq5S-8Lxm0I/UIF2VoqP43I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/ZAoIKtsVa64/s1600/Charleston+Pie+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" nea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gq5S-8Lxm0I/UIF2VoqP43I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/ZAoIKtsVa64/s320/Charleston+Pie+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HoTGqxbtAmI/UIF2WcPcR4I/AAAAAAAAFpY/fRZrowswFjs/s1600/Charleston+Pie+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" nea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HoTGqxbtAmI/UIF2WcPcR4I/AAAAAAAAFpY/fRZrowswFjs/s320/Charleston+Pie+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KyBDSLT3SIY/UIF2YoRCtkI/AAAAAAAAFpw/7QRfk1mFnzA/s1600/Charleston+Pie+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" nea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KyBDSLT3SIY/UIF2YoRCtkI/AAAAAAAAFpw/7QRfk1mFnzA/s320/Charleston+Pie+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-49181836953909110202012-10-01T17:11:00.001-05:002012-10-01T17:11:39.561-05:00October.I am an autumn girl.<br />
I might even go as far to say that October is my favorite month.<br />
Its arrival is most welcome here.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LSElQkNfUaU/UGoSCZfCZSI/AAAAAAAAFjE/bkgBdOvODCU/s1600/october3+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" kea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LSElQkNfUaU/UGoSCZfCZSI/AAAAAAAAFjE/bkgBdOvODCU/s320/october3+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Swirling leaves on the patio.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aV90AgVba6w/UGoSG1r1xWI/AAAAAAAAFjg/MqHFfIgCpE0/s1600/october+2012+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aV90AgVba6w/UGoSG1r1xWI/AAAAAAAAFjg/MqHFfIgCpE0/s320/october+2012+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Squash on the front porch.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RUCZegvSQ8M/UGoSHcqHNdI/AAAAAAAAFjo/tE_FnFej-Ik/s1600/october+2012+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RUCZegvSQ8M/UGoSHcqHNdI/AAAAAAAAFjo/tE_FnFej-Ik/s320/october+2012+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Apples awaiting their place in a pie.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EfluVeWQoc/UGoSD0qsm-I/AAAAAAAAFjQ/5v_k8kT9nLQ/s1600/october3+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" kea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EfluVeWQoc/UGoSD0qsm-I/AAAAAAAAFjQ/5v_k8kT9nLQ/s320/october3+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Asters pleasing the bees.</div>
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What does October look like where you are?</div>
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Happy Fall.</div>
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xo Christine</div>
Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-73143273661063089902012-08-24T10:57:00.000-05:002012-08-24T10:57:21.330-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H1Mj5CRzzMk/UDehZyLT-qI/AAAAAAAAFf0/m5dbgZk556o/s1600/state+fair+pie+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H1Mj5CRzzMk/UDehZyLT-qI/AAAAAAAAFf0/m5dbgZk556o/s320/state+fair+pie+004.JPG" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
Blue ribbon winner?<br />
Nope. Not this year.<br />
I finally decided to enter a pie in the Minnesota State Fair.<br />
This is said pie.<br />
Category: <a href="http://piesandaprons.blogspot.com/2009/09/friday-is-pie-day_12.html">Apple</a><br />
Looks like a winner to me. <br />
Ah well.<br />
Try try again, right?<br />
<br />
I think there are all sorts of inside secrets to State Fair ribbonista status.<br />
Frankly, I wish I had kept this pie and eaten it.<br />
Who needs a ribbon when you have a mean slice of pie on your plate.<br />
<br />
Happy, happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo ChristineChristine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-46225458528102329562012-08-13T08:29:00.000-05:002012-08-13T08:29:13.563-05:00Friday (errrr...Monday) is PIE DAY!<br />
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The wedding pies looked lovely! <br />
Hoping all the guests enjoyed them...<br />
<br />
In the interest of experimentation, my pies often contain a mix of fruits.<br />
Raspberry pie was among the flavors ordered for the wedding, and I have to admit<br />
it had been some time since I had made a raspberry only pie. Triple berry, raspberry rhubarb, <br />
plum raspberry...yes, yes, and yes. It was a treat to smell those solo raspberry pies baking, and it left me with a strong hankering for a slice of my own. I'll be stopping by the market again this weekend to pick up fresh berries and bake a pie just for hubby and me.<br />
<br />
<strong>Fresh Raspberry Pie</strong><br />
<br />
9" double pie crust<br />
<br />
4 cups fresh raspberries<br />
1 1/4 cup sugar<br />
2 T flour<br />
1 T butter<br />
1 T fresh lemon zest<br />
<br />
-wash and drain berries, patting gently dry to remove excess moisture<br />
-in large bowl, combine berries, sugar and flour<br />
-stir to combine<br />
-spoon into prepared bottom crust<br />
-sprinkle lemon zest on top<br />
-dot with pieces of butter<br />
-top with crust, crimp, and vent<br />
-bake at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes<br />
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Lattice tops are really lovely on raspberry pies.<br />
For the wedding pies, I made simple twists for the top crust.<br />
Slice rolled crust into strips, carefully twist, then lay on top of pie.<br />
Cut ends to length and pinch down to secure to bottom crust.<br />
I also added little pie crust hearts that I cut and prebaked on a cookie sheet at 350.<br />
<br />
Happy happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo Christine<br />
Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-86244936573365273872012-08-10T13:30:00.001-05:002012-08-10T13:30:04.004-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">First</span>...a quick follow up on last week's Avocado Lime Pie.<br />
I promised to post a photo of a slice, but we carted it off to my parents' house and ate most of it before I recalled that promise. The remaining slices were not looking ready for a photo op (think day old guacamole), so you'll just have to imagine. If you make this pie, be sure to give it a nice thick layer of bananas-I think I sliced mine to thinly, and would have liked a bigger bite of banana with the filling.<br />
Also, I might experiment with adding a bit more lime. But, all in all, a surprisingly delicious pie!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">Second</span>....I am making pies for a wedding this weekend!<br />
Therefore, the actual Pie Day post will be coming at you tomorrow.<br />
On pie number 4 right now, and have 6 more to go....<br />
<br />
I haven't baked pies for a wedding since <a href="http://piesandaprons.blogspot.com/2009/10/6-years.html">my own</a> almost 9 years ago,<br />
and am so excited! I absolutely think more people should have wedding pie instead of wedding cake,<br />
don't you? I guess I would also vote for having both cake AND pie:)<br />
<br />
Until tomorrow......<br />
Happy, happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo ChristineChristine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-5958800853932202552012-08-03T15:20:00.000-05:002012-08-03T15:20:01.672-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My oldest brother has quite a formidable collection of cookbooks. Lucky for me, he likes to share. On his last visit, he passed along <em>The Dairy Hollow House Cookbook</em>. For those of you not familiar, Dairy Hollow House was a bed and breakfast opened by cook and writer, Crescent Dragonwagon. The B and B is no longer, but the recipes in this book will live on. I'm anxious to try more of them, but the first to catch my eye was, naturally, a pie recipe.<br />
<br />
The ingredient list is not typical for most pie recipes, but what grabbed my attention was it's simplicity and summertime feel. It's also dairy free and calls for honey, but no other sugars. Definitely worth a try.<br />
<br />
Avocado Lime Pie<br />
<em>recipe from The Dairy Hollow House Cookbook: Crescent Dragonwagon w/ Jan Brown</em><br />
<br />
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Making the cashew creme is super easy-just cashews and water!</div>
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Adding the avocado and honey makes this wonderful super thick and smooth concoction-yum!</div>
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I made a couple of changes in my version of this pie.<br />
1. I used 1/2 cup honey, rather than the 1 cup called for in the recipe.<br />
A full cup seemed like a lot of honey to me, and I am not fond of too much honey taste<br />
<br />
2. I used 1 t of tapioca rather than the agar agar powder called for in the recipe.<br />
I did not see the need to make a trip in the car all the way to Whole Foods for one ingredient,<br />
and most of you will be more likely to have the tapioca on hand.<br />
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Step 1:</div>
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Step 2:</div>
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Step 3:</div>
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<br />
It's not quite set up enough for it's photo op, so I will post a slice photo later...so you can see the layers! I did sneak a forkful, and it is creamy and dreamy...usually I like coffee with pie, but I think a beer might fit the bill on this steamy summer evening.<br />
<br />
Happy, happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo Christine<br />
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</div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-71895138751239298792012-07-31T13:34:00.000-05:002012-07-31T13:34:01.845-05:00JunkBonanza!<center>
<a href="http://junkbonanza.com/"><img border="0" src="http://junkbonanza.com/images/blog/suitcase_small.png" /></a></center>
<br />
August already...how does that happen?<br />
I'm counting down the weeks until the JunkBonanza,<br />
and am thrilled to be showing there this year!<br />
All spring and summer I have been buying and cleaning and sorting JUNK!<br />
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It's so good to be back in the saddle again after taking a hiatus from buying and selling. Ok-truthfully, I never stop buying, but the amounts that I buy ebb and flow. Finding treasures and creating inspiring displays are two of my favorite things, and I'm super super excited to share that with customers at the JunkBonanza.<br />
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Of course, I couldn't just eeeeeeaaaase my way back into it-oh no-<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I have 3, count 'em 3,</span> <br />
booths full of goodies. What can you expect to find?<br />
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Loads of linens in all shapes, sizes and colors; mid century kitsch and cool; gotta have furniture pieces; bits and parts and pieces; AND a whole booth full of vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories! I'll post some sneak peeks in the coming weeks, but the best way to get the full experience is to head on over and see me at the JunkBonanza!! <br />
<br />
<strong>September 13, 14, 15</strong><br />
Canterbury Downs in Shakopee MN....here is the link for all the details:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://junkbonanza.com/">http://junkbonanza.com/</a><br />
<br />
......and the link to the blog to get updates and see profiles of the vendors that will be there:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://junkbonanza.blogspot.com/">http://junkbonanza.blogspot.com/</a><br />
<br />
See my vendor profile here:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://junkbonanza.blogspot.com/2012/07/vendor-profile-pies-and-aprons.html">http://junkbonanza.blogspot.com/2012/07/vendor-profile-pies-and-aprons.html</a><br />
<br />
pssssssstttttt.....they've added a Spring Bonanza for 2013, <br />
so if you can't make it in September, mark you calenders for April 2013!! <br />
<br />Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-51576712342502739542012-07-13T14:00:00.001-05:002012-07-13T14:00:11.844-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<br />
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I love the endless possibilities of summer fruit pies. Periodically, I think about designing some sort of fruit flow chart, so I can map out the combinations that I have tried and have yet to try. Then I realize that I much prefer to leave it to chance and whim: what have I got on hand, what is on sale, or what looks particularly juicy today at the farm market.<br />
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Today's chance meeting: blackberry, mango and pear.<br />
Mango is a great addition to any berry pie, but I wanted just a bit more heft and body for this pie. A few still crisp pears step up to the job beautifully.<br />
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<strong>Blackberry Mango Pear Pie</strong></div>
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<em>recipe by me</em></div>
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double 9" pie crust</div>
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3 firm bosc pears</div>
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2 mangoes</div>
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12 oz fresh blackberries</div>
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1 1/4 cup sugar</div>
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3 T flour</div>
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1 t lemon zest</div>
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2 T butter</div>
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-peel and cut pears and mangoes into bite size pieces<br />
-in large bowl, combine the cut fruit with blackberries<br />
-add sugar and stir until coated<br />
-spoon into prepared pie crust<br />
-sprinkle flour and lemon zest on top<br />
-dot with pieces of butter<br />
-top with crust, crimp and vent<br />
-bake at 350 degrees for <br />
-cool on rack<br />
<br />
Happy, happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo ChristineChristine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-45012479203992139982012-06-29T17:32:00.004-05:002012-06-29T17:32:59.314-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Women Who Really Cook is a fantastic local organization filled with women who make food their living, or like me, make food a little part of their work. However big a role food takes in each of our lives, we all love food, and we are all there to support each other in any way we can. Monthly meetings are held at rotating member owned locations. Last week, our meeting was at <a href="http://www.annonagourmet.com/">Annona Gourmet</a>. Oil and vinegar "bars" have been getting a lot of press lately, but I had yet to visit one. Jean Rarick, the owner, had wonderful sample food out highlighting the various vinegars and oils she carries in the shop.<br />
<br />
Flavored balsmics seemed like a natural fit for some exciting new pie creations, so I purchased a few, and their fig balsamic inpired this new pie!<br />
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<br />
<strong>Custard Pie with Balsamic Figs and Bananas</strong><br />
<br />
single 10" pie crust<br />
<br />
1/4 cup fig balsamic vinegar<br />
1 T brown sugar<br />
5 fresh figs, sliced thickly<br />
2 large bananas, sliced thickly<br />
<br />
4 eggs<br />
2 cups milk<br />
2/3 cup sugar<br />
1/2 t vanilla<br />
1/4 t salt<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtVEofT0Ut4/T-4pp4fZgOI/AAAAAAAAFYs/z8ZmwBF8A3s/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtVEofT0Ut4/T-4pp4fZgOI/AAAAAAAAFYs/z8ZmwBF8A3s/s320/fig+balsamic+pie+012.JPG" vca="true" width="320" /></a></div>
-combine balsamic and brown sugar in medium nonreactive skillet<br />
-bring to a boil, stirring constantly<br />
-reduce to a simmer<br />
-simmer 10 minutes, stirring as needed to prevent burning<br />
-add sliced figs and bananas to skillet<br />
-stir to coat fruit<br />
-simmer additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally<br />
-remove from heat and let cool completely<br />
<br />
I grabbed a taste of this right after it was done, and had to hold myself back from just grabbing a spoon and eating the whole bowl. I honestly didn't expect to find it so tasty on its own...would be fantastic spooned over vanilla ice cream for an easy summer dessert!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dQjNYXPSFBc/T-4prA2BYzI/AAAAAAAAFY8/Z7_Wdvzj6XA/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dQjNYXPSFBc/T-4prA2BYzI/AAAAAAAAFY8/Z7_Wdvzj6XA/s320/fig+balsamic+pie+025.JPG" vca="true" width="320" /></a></div>
But for our purposes today, on to the custard....<br />
<br />
-in large bowl, whisk eggs and milk together for 2 minutes<br />
-add sugar, vanilla, and salt<br />
-whisk additional 2 minutes<br />
-pour into prepared pie crust<br />
-bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes<br />
-reduce heat to 350 degrees<br />
-bake 15 minutes<br />
-carefully remove from oven and spoon fruit mixture onto top of pie<br />
-bake 20 minutes, until firm<br />
-cool on rack<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HjPu1zEj5Ns/T-4psEXA0kI/AAAAAAAAFZM/b2leB-JPwrM/s1600/fig+balsamic+pie+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HjPu1zEj5Ns/T-4psEXA0kI/AAAAAAAAFZM/b2leB-JPwrM/s320/fig+balsamic+pie+033.JPG" vca="true" width="320" /></a></div>
I LOVE this pie. The simple custard is the perfect base for all that fruity, tangy, rich fruit. <br />
Happy, happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo Christine<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">copyright (c) Pies and Aprons June 2012</span></div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-79768477404895435472012-06-22T18:07:00.001-05:002012-06-22T18:07:36.286-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Z6DdN15tl4/T-T4p7rPtqI/AAAAAAAAFXg/WuKRdFwaAJ8/s1600/cranberry+citrus+pie+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" rca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Z6DdN15tl4/T-T4p7rPtqI/AAAAAAAAFXg/WuKRdFwaAJ8/s320/cranberry+citrus+pie+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
If two tarts do not make a right, try three.<br />
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I went all out this week. Cranberry, lemon, AND lime.</div>
Oh yes. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ld7hZ1hOFoE/T-T4mEbGSwI/AAAAAAAAFXA/bfkTUldWsno/s1600/cranberry+citrus+pie+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" rca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ld7hZ1hOFoE/T-T4mEbGSwI/AAAAAAAAFXA/bfkTUldWsno/s320/cranberry+citrus+pie+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S0NBVNzYuyU/T-T4nKQRJUI/AAAAAAAAFXI/0kz3GC0tTFI/s1600/cranberry+citrus+pie+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" rca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S0NBVNzYuyU/T-T4nKQRJUI/AAAAAAAAFXI/0kz3GC0tTFI/s320/cranberry+citrus+pie+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I meant to get this post up earlier, but this has been the scene on my deck for the past two hours or so.<br />
Enticed by the idea of sampling a new pie, my neighbors made tea and we all settled in for the tasting.<br />
It is a perfect summer afternoon here, so you can understand why I was delayed......it rolled right into cocktail hour, just like summer days should.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Kn4a8s7pps/T-T4q98bJyI/AAAAAAAAFXw/pdI9jpDdBC4/s1600/cranberry+citrus+pie+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" rca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Kn4a8s7pps/T-T4q98bJyI/AAAAAAAAFXw/pdI9jpDdBC4/s320/cranberry+citrus+pie+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I had a couple of dubious responses when I told people the combination,</div>
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but the taste test got a thumbs up from 4 out of 4 participants.</div>
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To quote hubby, "I didn't think it could be THIS good."</div>
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(A ringing endorsement:)</div>
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I do wish I had been rolling camera when he took the first bite.</div>
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His expression spoke much louder than his words this time.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hZ9QvGesxxE/T-T4qbWcUVI/AAAAAAAAFXo/xQ0JcBuLTmA/s1600/cranberry+citrus+pie+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" rca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hZ9QvGesxxE/T-T4qbWcUVI/AAAAAAAAFXo/xQ0JcBuLTmA/s320/cranberry+citrus+pie+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm certain this pie will win a spot in my regular rotation of favorites.</div>
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I also hope it might win something else, so I am, <em>please don't hate me, </em>not sharing this recipe yet.</div>
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Sometimes, an experiment turns out so well I feel I need to keep it under wraps.</div>
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Just for a bit. (I'm such a tease)</div>
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<br /></div>
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Happy, happy PIE DAY!</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
xo Christine</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-43044755225702705412012-06-15T08:07:00.000-05:002012-06-15T08:07:01.903-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-te0OPee8sEw/T9svOSmMKII/AAAAAAAAFVw/3z7AGZc0-xs/s1600/cherryrhubarbpie+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" pca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-te0OPee8sEw/T9svOSmMKII/AAAAAAAAFVw/3z7AGZc0-xs/s320/cherryrhubarbpie+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Rhubarb pie and sour cherry pie, respectively, are two of my favorites. Usually, when I have the good fortune of being the recipient of sour cherries, I prefer not to sully them with any other ingredients. This week, fortune smiled on me once again, but was limited to a mere cup of sour cherries. This was my chance to experiment with combinations. Naturally, I chose rhubarb. Two of my favorites fruits in one pie could not possibly go wrong, right? Well, I'm here to tell you. Two tarts do not make a right. The flavor was not what I expected, and the extreme pucker inducing qualities of the two together was a bit much, even for a sour puss like me. Not terrible (I ate a whole piece in the name of taste testing), but it needs some fine tuning.</div>
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So, no recipe this week, but I'll keep experimenting with this one. Leave ideas below!</div>
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<br /></div>
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Happy, happy PIE DAY!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Christine</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-6544776652293143612012-06-08T08:56:00.000-05:002012-06-08T08:56:08.172-05:00Friday is PIE DAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-scYW6ojsVrE/T9IDG5_GCKI/AAAAAAAAFSc/EneeS3y1hZM/s1600/ribbon5+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="217" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-scYW6ojsVrE/T9IDG5_GCKI/AAAAAAAAFSc/EneeS3y1hZM/s320/ribbon5+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
To finish off Ribbon Week!, I have an adorable packaging idea for your sweet treats. <br />
In my case, mini pies of course!<br />
You could also tuck in cookies or donuts.....<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gsmJE38Sr2M/T9IDFaqFYVI/AAAAAAAAFSM/UhmBVBS16KI/s1600/ribbon5+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gsmJE38Sr2M/T9IDFaqFYVI/AAAAAAAAFSM/UhmBVBS16KI/s320/ribbon5+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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At the seam, cut off the bottom part</div>
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of a lunch size paper bag.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Wrap some sassy ribbon round and round,</div>
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then tie in a knot.</div>
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Use glue to add a scrapbook bit</div>
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to a white paper tag.</div>
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Label your goodies</div>
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and glue tag to package!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0hrnjyclshg/T9IDGaBoeAI/AAAAAAAAFSU/Lue4nOzrpiU/s1600/ribbon5+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0hrnjyclshg/T9IDGaBoeAI/AAAAAAAAFSU/Lue4nOzrpiU/s320/ribbon5+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy Happy PIE DAY!</div>
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<br /></div>
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xo Christine</div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-33487180537152816322012-06-07T14:23:00.000-05:002012-06-07T14:23:15.208-05:00Ribbon Week: Day 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wl2bJ2_Hr88/T9D8hYK2puI/AAAAAAAAFR8/VWro3Covg1Y/s1600/ribbon4+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wl2bJ2_Hr88/T9D8hYK2puI/AAAAAAAAFR8/VWro3Covg1Y/s320/ribbon4+016.JPG" width="231" /></a></div>
Last night I thought, "Hmmmm....my ribbon posts thus far have been fairly easy projects. Maybe I should hit them with something more in-depth tomorrow." Then I thought......nah. Summer is so fleeting and busy that we all want projects that come together fast and look great. This garland is a super quick and super cute way to dress up a summer party. I did a tabletop version, but you could string them all over the house, patio, or garden!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXtbwzKzc6U/T9D8fe16hwI/AAAAAAAAFRc/clBu4zG9JOM/s1600/ribbon4+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXtbwzKzc6U/T9D8fe16hwI/AAAAAAAAFRc/clBu4zG9JOM/s320/ribbon4+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Jute twine and wide wired ribbon</div>
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are all you need!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GuUtrQytAgg/T9D8f7y36GI/AAAAAAAAFRk/C_WqN0NQSgU/s1600/ribbon4+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GuUtrQytAgg/T9D8f7y36GI/AAAAAAAAFRk/C_WqN0NQSgU/s320/ribbon4+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pick a spot for your garland,</div>
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then cut a length of twine to fit.</div>
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Tie with a double knot onto your "posts".</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24L48jXQbuA/T9D8gKZ_VDI/AAAAAAAAFRs/kECq1_9qKFA/s1600/ribbon4+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="160" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24L48jXQbuA/T9D8gKZ_VDI/AAAAAAAAFRs/kECq1_9qKFA/s320/ribbon4+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cut short lengths of ribbon.</div>
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I used the pattern to guide me here, </div>
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cutting 4 sunflowers.</div>
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About 8 inches will be long enough to form the flags.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Fold the lengths in half,</div>
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making sure the seam is creased well.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f4Hya-xEUgs/T9D8gtuzcoI/AAAAAAAAFR0/F6fFDYR_sag/s1600/ribbon4+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="109" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f4Hya-xEUgs/T9D8gtuzcoI/AAAAAAAAFR0/F6fFDYR_sag/s320/ribbon4+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Slip the flags over your twine</div>
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and get ready to party!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wl2bJ2_Hr88/T9D8hYK2puI/AAAAAAAAFR8/VWro3Covg1Y/s1600/ribbon4+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wl2bJ2_Hr88/T9D8hYK2puI/AAAAAAAAFR8/VWro3Covg1Y/s320/ribbon4+016.JPG" width="231" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-52301224159340170272012-06-06T17:54:00.000-05:002012-06-06T17:54:38.439-05:00Ribbon Week: Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qOVzR6G7WR0/T8z1y-VHHtI/AAAAAAAAFN8/GLkPHO61HwY/s1600/smores2+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qOVzR6G7WR0/T8z1y-VHHtI/AAAAAAAAFN8/GLkPHO61HwY/s320/smores2+034.JPG" width="217" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really love this project.</div>
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So much, that I made a bunch,</div>
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and am using them in my studio</div>
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to hold this and that...</div>
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things like, oh say, ribbon scraps.</div>
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<br /></div>
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What wonders we can do </div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
with recycled cans and craft supplies!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7yG17ygzwA/T8_fDISHA4I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/HWO_7R_WUv4/s1600/gala+2+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7yG17ygzwA/T8_fDISHA4I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/HWO_7R_WUv4/s320/gala+2+027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used an No. 2 size can </div>
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and large spools for these,</div>
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but they would be sweet</div>
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in a mini version too.</div>
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<br /></div>
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1. Remove the label from the can.</div>
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2. Cut a piece of tree wrap to fit around can</div>
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(I'm crazy for tree wrap!)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L24xmUXpbPQ/T8z2QcdWCJI/AAAAAAAAFOY/EHMasP5RCO0/s1600/cc+projects+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L24xmUXpbPQ/T8z2QcdWCJI/AAAAAAAAFOY/EHMasP5RCO0/s320/cc+projects+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. Use a hot glue gun to secure tree wrap </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zsZEW7zgM4E/T8z2QOIMcUI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/XGyHUMClD50/s1600/cc+projects+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zsZEW7zgM4E/T8z2QOIMcUI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/XGyHUMClD50/s320/cc+projects+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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4. Use more hot glue to mount 3 spool "legs" to the bottom of can</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9W5nneRfRI/T8z2Rjxk8fI/AAAAAAAAFOo/XHDWIeXMBn8/s1600/cc+projects+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9W5nneRfRI/T8z2Rjxk8fI/AAAAAAAAFOo/XHDWIeXMBn8/s320/cc+projects+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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5. Finish off with a sweet length of ribbon tied atop the tree wrap</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oh1_ZpfJX0U/T8z2RNa56_I/AAAAAAAAFOg/nNLzoM2FDrM/s1600/cc+projects+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oh1_ZpfJX0U/T8z2RNa56_I/AAAAAAAAFOg/nNLzoM2FDrM/s320/cc+projects+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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6. Fill with a plant, flower, kitchen utensils, ribbon scraps.....</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5JLvG94IUNE/T8z1yaxtNUI/AAAAAAAAFN0/_qMguWW_7Dk/s1600/smores2+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5JLvG94IUNE/T8z1yaxtNUI/AAAAAAAAFN0/_qMguWW_7Dk/s320/smores2+032.JPG" width="217" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-73740327573578786982012-06-05T15:13:00.002-05:002012-06-05T15:13:42.656-05:00Ribbon Week: Day 2<div align="center">
Lanterns, garlands, pom poms.</div>
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I am a nut for any festive and colorful</div>
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doo-dad hanging from the rafters.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwUmahW37m8/T85hb38J_mI/AAAAAAAAFQo/f9Co_oUMHfQ/s1600/ribbon2+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwUmahW37m8/T85hb38J_mI/AAAAAAAAFQo/f9Co_oUMHfQ/s320/ribbon2+031.JPG" width="199" /></a></div>
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Inexpensive paper lanterns can be</div>
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found in any size and color.<br />Here is an easy way to personalize </div>
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yours with ribbon.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpAeUhuxD2E/T85hVLIX-_I/AAAAAAAAFPg/rulHPKPry4o/s1600/ribbon2+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpAeUhuxD2E/T85hVLIX-_I/AAAAAAAAFPg/rulHPKPry4o/s320/ribbon2+001.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
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The plain old lantern. As is, off the shelf.</div>
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Snooze fest.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8esLmvameMo/T85hWCcV9nI/AAAAAAAAFPo/pLyyRXjTwV0/s1600/ribbon2+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8esLmvameMo/T85hWCcV9nI/AAAAAAAAFPo/pLyyRXjTwV0/s320/ribbon2+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Choose a wide ribbon </div>
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in a contrasting color.</div>
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Measure a length to run</div>
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from top to bottom of the lantern.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AC2_QE0ggis/T85hWzZgMWI/AAAAAAAAFPw/NqtMgX2soh4/s1600/ribbon2+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AC2_QE0ggis/T85hWzZgMWI/AAAAAAAAFPw/NqtMgX2soh4/s320/ribbon2+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Using this cut ribbon as a guide,</div>
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cut the total number of lengths you need.</div>
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I chose to cover each seam on the lantern,</div>
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giving me a total of 8 ribbons.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6y3aT-YRwUE/T85hXqPIvHI/AAAAAAAAFP4/mP1RDc2g1kc/s1600/ribbon2+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="189" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6y3aT-YRwUE/T85hXqPIvHI/AAAAAAAAFP4/mP1RDc2g1kc/s320/ribbon2+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Using spray adhesive,</div>
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affix each length of ribbon to the lantern.</div>
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I moved outside for this step,</div>
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and you should too.</div>
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Spray adhesive is amazing but darn stinky! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lDXXOgW1NW4/T85hYR-r_5I/AAAAAAAAFQA/yjor8vjgmgQ/s1600/ribbon2+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lDXXOgW1NW4/T85hYR-r_5I/AAAAAAAAFQA/yjor8vjgmgQ/s320/ribbon2+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mw1nWUFYOJE/T85hZMQKy1I/AAAAAAAAFQI/odPN8F3l9wA/s1600/ribbon2+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mw1nWUFYOJE/T85hZMQKy1I/AAAAAAAAFQI/odPN8F3l9wA/s320/ribbon2+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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</div>
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</div>
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My lantern came with a plastic hanger.</div>
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Blech.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P_mcHmfRtGY/T85hZzPQqCI/AAAAAAAAFQQ/7TvRIECU360/s1600/ribbon2+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P_mcHmfRtGY/T85hZzPQqCI/AAAAAAAAFQQ/7TvRIECU360/s320/ribbon2+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I simply removed the plastic hanger,</div>
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then replaced with a complimentary ribbon.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a-ExQ8Ne3Xg/T85halYU_YI/AAAAAAAAFQY/rNoE1iqQKZQ/s1600/ribbon2+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a-ExQ8Ne3Xg/T85halYU_YI/AAAAAAAAFQY/rNoE1iqQKZQ/s320/ribbon2+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A slim ribbon is easy to slip through</div>
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the opening, and will look great hanging.</div>
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Be sure to tie a knot on each side to secure.</div>
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(Your lantern may have a different hanging</div>
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mechanism. Just adjust as needed)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23oQZXr9cps/T85hbE1m-eI/AAAAAAAAFQg/HqBEQOxqpbE/s1600/ribbon2+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23oQZXr9cps/T85hbE1m-eI/AAAAAAAAFQg/HqBEQOxqpbE/s320/ribbon2+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love simple changes that have a big impact!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwUmahW37m8/T85hb38J_mI/AAAAAAAAFQo/f9Co_oUMHfQ/s1600/ribbon2+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwUmahW37m8/T85hb38J_mI/AAAAAAAAFQo/f9Co_oUMHfQ/s320/ribbon2+031.JPG" width="199" /></a></div>
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</div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-41765393826557169952012-06-04T14:05:00.001-05:002012-06-04T14:05:24.861-05:00Ribbon Week!It's ribbon week.<br />
Not officially or anything.<br />
Not a national holiday.<br />
Just my own celebration of ribbon and its wonders.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4qme5uenctQ/T80EXK60U0I/AAAAAAAAFPA/Tc8Xp7WGaN4/s1600/ribbon1+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4qme5uenctQ/T80EXK60U0I/AAAAAAAAFPA/Tc8Xp7WGaN4/s320/ribbon1+005.JPG" width="169" /></a></div>
Ok-there is a teeny tiny reason. I am throwing my hat in the ring for the <a href="http://www.mayarts.com/blog/may-arts-ribbon-blog-design-team-call/">May Arts Blog Design Team</a>!<br />
I'm new to the whole design team world, but as you know, always love to share projects.<br />
Also, I am a hoarder...ahem....collector of ribbon.<br />
I buy a lot of it.<br />
Then I stack up the spools in my studio.<br />
And hang up spools of it on my studio walls.<br />
And store bits and pieces of it in bins and jars. <br />
Then lovingly gaze at it.<br />
And, occasionally, even use some in a project.<br />
<br />
May Arts is a super fabulous company with oodles of dreamy ribbons in their repertoire.<br />
Just the thing for adding to my stash...ahem...collection.<br />
Cross your fingers (and toes) for me, and enjoy a week of easy peasy super breezy ribbon projects.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wno0Tzv02o/T8z1z25-CpI/AAAAAAAAFOE/qEB1PsfFPig/s1600/smores2+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wno0Tzv02o/T8z1z25-CpI/AAAAAAAAFOE/qEB1PsfFPig/s320/smores2+037.JPG" width="196" /></a></div>
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My shelves are filled with jars and bottles just waiting for their chance to make it out to a party.</div>
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Wrapping them is a favorite way to quickly dress them up to match any table setting or color theme. Yes, I know that I might be<em> slightly</em> obsessed with wrapping objects. (see<a href="http://piesandaprons.blogspot.com/2010/09/creative-connection-gala-part-2.html"> here</a> and<a href="http://piesandaprons.blogspot.com/2012/02/hearts-day-2.html"> here</a>)</div>
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But, you can't argue with the results.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RE6C_dpavXs/T8z1xb8TT6I/AAAAAAAAFNs/7toejSHO7mY/s1600/smores2+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RE6C_dpavXs/T8z1xb8TT6I/AAAAAAAAFNs/7toejSHO7mY/s320/smores2+029.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
Simply start at the bottom of the jar or bottle, leaving a tail for tying off, or using a dab of hot glue gun to secure. Wrap, wrap, wrap your way to the top, and tie off, or add another dot of glue. Any ribbon will do, but textural ribbon in bright colors will make a big splash on your summer table. Just pop in a few fresh stems from the garden, or let the bottles stand on their own.Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-47496512200058982072012-06-01T13:20:00.002-05:002012-06-01T13:20:54.277-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">Smores Pie: Take 2.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">A smashing success!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VWTovU1Y7IQ/T8kFBhDoM2I/AAAAAAAAFM4/fdIMh69eXhc/s1600/smores2+154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VWTovU1Y7IQ/T8kFBhDoM2I/AAAAAAAAFM4/fdIMh69eXhc/s320/smores2+154.JPG" width="244" /></a></div>
After last week's failed attempt, these little cuties seemed especially delicious.<br />
I hit upon just the taste and texture combination I was looking for.<br />
Once you try these, you might be tempted to switch to this version for good!<br />
(and no campfire necessary)<br />
<br />
Mini S'mores Pies<br />
<em>makes 12 minis</em><br />
<br />
12 prebaked mini pie shells<br />
*see my how to <a href="http://piesandaprons.blogspot.com/2010/02/friday-is-pie-day_12.html">here,</a> or use a store bought variety<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8LCbMgwmVPM/T8kE_uDPwjI/AAAAAAAAFMg/JrmHplrM_KQ/s1600/smores2+144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" rba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8LCbMgwmVPM/T8kE_uDPwjI/AAAAAAAAFMg/JrmHplrM_KQ/s320/smores2+144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
12 oz bittersweet chocolate<br />
2 graham crackers<br />
12 marshmallows<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPkliDuB-DE/T8kFAjvUCOI/AAAAAAAAFMo/w9huVlE-86Q/s1600/smores2+146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" rba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPkliDuB-DE/T8kFAjvUCOI/AAAAAAAAFMo/w9huVlE-86Q/s320/smores2+146.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BI6QBcC6r2k/T8kFBOiYk5I/AAAAAAAAFMw/_U6c_rXtWXU/s1600/smores2+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" rba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BI6QBcC6r2k/T8kFBOiYk5I/AAAAAAAAFMw/_U6c_rXtWXU/s320/smores2+147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
-place prebaked shells on a cookie sheet<br />
-melt chocolate over double boiler<br />
-drizzle a teaspoon of chocolate into each shell<br />
-top with a square of graham cracker<br />
-place marshmallow on top <br />
*I used either 1/2 marshamallow, or two halves side by side...just depends on how much mallow you like!<br />
-place under broiler for 3-4 minutes, until marshmallows are browned and bubbly<br />
<br />
I devoured two immediately. <br />
I love the taste tower of flaky crust, melted chocolate, little crunch of graham cracker, and gooey marshmallow. Pie and s'mores combined into one taste treat-amazing!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAYtb-V7YVs/T8kHJXvRIZI/AAAAAAAAFNI/6fvLnc1Bles/s1600/smores2+151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" rba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAYtb-V7YVs/T8kHJXvRIZI/AAAAAAAAFNI/6fvLnc1Bles/s320/smores2+151.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
These would be so easy to do for a party or quick summer dessert. <br />
Make up the shell, chocolate and graham cracker ahead of time,<br />
then just pop the marshmallows on top and broil just before you serve.<br />
<br />
Happy, happy PIE DAY!<br />
xo Christine<br />
<br />Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-39820788480871437342012-05-25T13:08:00.002-05:002012-05-25T13:08:32.165-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJQJ500GA9k/T7_Fj19F18I/AAAAAAAAFLY/cCsYaUl9LTo/s1600/smores+pie+1+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJQJ500GA9k/T7_Fj19F18I/AAAAAAAAFLY/cCsYaUl9LTo/s320/smores+pie+1+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Evenings at our family cabin mean bonfires and s'mores-a treat that I look forward to every single time.<br />
Recently, <em>Better Homes and Gardens</em> did a s'mores story, featuring other s'mores inspired desserts.<br />
There was a pie recipe, but it fell under my personal category of "Yeah, that's not <em>really</em> a pie." It has been in my head since to create a<em> real</em> (in my book) s'mores pie. Most importantly, I wanted to include an actual pastry crust. Memorial weekend seemed like the perfect time to do some experimenting with this idea.<br />
<br />
Experiment is the correct word.<br />
I've never baked a marshmallow before.<br />
Turns out, you can't really bake a marshmallow.<br />
It either explodes or disappears, leaving behind only a faint shiny glaze.<br />
Duh.<br />
I should have anticipated the chemistry of it all.<br />
Sugar, when heated, turns to a liquid.<br />
Double duh.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-986Xpp5i6Vs/T7_Fi3epfFI/AAAAAAAAFLI/bwR75Cn40bo/s1600/smores+pie+1+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-986Xpp5i6Vs/T7_Fi3epfFI/AAAAAAAAFLI/bwR75Cn40bo/s320/smores+pie+1+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It seemed like a good idea at the time.</div>
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Mini s'mores pies stuffed with marshmallows and chocolate.</div>
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Yes, please.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYrp_0a_LdU/T7_FjZihY9I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/tvPQZnpVxVQ/s1600/smores+pie+1+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYrp_0a_LdU/T7_FjZihY9I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/tvPQZnpVxVQ/s320/smores+pie+1+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My cocktail shaker top is the perfect size for cutting the circles.</div>
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Which means I WAS NOT using the shaker</div>
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for other things at the time.</div>
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Which means I cannot blame this recipe failure on drunkenness.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJQJ500GA9k/T7_Fj19F18I/AAAAAAAAFLY/cCsYaUl9LTo/s1600/smores+pie+1+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJQJ500GA9k/T7_Fj19F18I/AAAAAAAAFLY/cCsYaUl9LTo/s320/smores+pie+1+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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They looked adorable all loaded up with different combinations.</div>
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I melted some of the chocolate, did some in chunks, </div>
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and used 3 different kinds.</div>
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I also used both homemade orange marshmallows</div>
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and the old classics off the grocery store shelf.</div>
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I told you-I was experimenting!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb3xW9iqT-s/T7_FkZkxo9I/AAAAAAAAFLg/nP3dEricg2Y/s1600/smores+pie+1+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb3xW9iqT-s/T7_FkZkxo9I/AAAAAAAAFLg/nP3dEricg2Y/s320/smores+pie+1+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I said, it was important to me to use a classic pastry pie crust.</div>
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So, to incorporate graham crackers,</div>
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I rolled crumbled cookies (are they a cookie or a cracker?)</div>
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into the top crust.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0hdntIoK2ls/T7_FlsZTQyI/AAAAAAAAFLw/eQHWgqYezwY/s1600/smores+pie+1+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0hdntIoK2ls/T7_FlsZTQyI/AAAAAAAAFLw/eQHWgqYezwY/s320/smores+pie+1+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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See-still no alcohol in that shaker.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6N5rO4WNIU/T7_FmUA1YtI/AAAAAAAAFL4/5mOZXsJHA9M/s1600/smores+pie+1+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" qba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6N5rO4WNIU/T7_FmUA1YtI/AAAAAAAAFL4/5mOZXsJHA9M/s320/smores+pie+1+027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the upside?</div>
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If you needed an impressive volcano pie,</div>
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say for a school project,</div>
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I've got you covered.</div>
<br />
Um. Needless to say, I am not including a recipe with this post.<br />
Never fear.<br />
I've already rallied with a Plan B<br />
and will be testing it out this weekend.<br />
I am more determined than ever!<br />
There will be s'mores pie!<br />
<br />
<br />Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-91140260556412005932012-05-23T16:08:00.000-05:002012-05-23T16:08:07.636-05:00Sammies on the Go<div style="text-align: center;">
The upcoming holiday weekend </div>
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has put me in a picnic frame of mind.</div>
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Whether you are dining on the deck</div>
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or toting a basket to a park, </div>
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this quick and easy packaging idea</div>
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will add a festive flair.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjIBPiXxjiA/T71PxQYRDzI/AAAAAAAAFKk/Wx0HjyrXwlo/s1600/picnic+packaging+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" qba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjIBPiXxjiA/T71PxQYRDzI/AAAAAAAAFKk/Wx0HjyrXwlo/s320/picnic+packaging+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Build your sandwiches </div>
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(or grab them from the deli)</div>
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and slip them into a paper lunch sack.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdXHPyjthfE/T71Pxz89iBI/AAAAAAAAFKs/Wqc3Oi3tkao/s1600/picnic+packaging+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdXHPyjthfE/T71Pxz89iBI/AAAAAAAAFKs/Wqc3Oi3tkao/s320/picnic+packaging+013.JPG" width="216" /></a></div>
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Finish off with a sweet label-</div>
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I used scrapbook die cuts-</div>
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and a colorful clothespin!</div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-1261416046367679162012-05-18T08:30:00.000-05:002012-05-18T08:30:01.682-05:00Friday is PIE DAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhihLh6JD4Q/T7Ozy3ZbkeI/AAAAAAAAFII/eFTUdu44buY/s1600/black+walnut+pie+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhihLh6JD4Q/T7Ozy3ZbkeI/AAAAAAAAFII/eFTUdu44buY/s320/black+walnut+pie+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have memories of people constructing all manner of device in their garage or shed for cracking black walnuts.(Which kind of makes me sound 80 years old..."Back when I was a youngster...") An ice cream pail full of the shelled nuts was coveted because it took so much damn time to get that pail full. For this reason, black walnuts always seemed a bit mysterious, rare, and exciting to me. Until I tried one. Really? This is what all the fuss is about? Hmmmmm....</div>
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It had been many years since I'd tasted one, until my brother gifted me with a bag full-all nicely shelled and chopped. I am assuming that he had pie in mind when he gave them to me, as he likes to encourage the expansion of my pie repertoire. Indeed, it seemed that baking them up with a bunch of sugary goodness and spice and pie crust would certainly be the way to go. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Shortly after lunch, as the pie was cooling, hubby mentioned how excited he was to have pie and coffee that afternoon. I smirked and told him not to get too excited. You see, I had already snuck a sample bite, and judged it to be "just okay". When you try a lot of pie recipes, a few are bound to be "just okay", and I really thought this one would need some tweaking. Never one to turn down a slice of pie, hubby decided to judge for himself. And you know what? He quite liked it. Intrigued, I deemed it necessary to further the taste test. Three out of four neighbors gave it a big thumbs up! The fourth voted yes for the filling, but like me, did not particularly care for the taste of the black walnuts. </div>
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So, there you go. </div>
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This pie is a winner.</div>
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And I might be just a little nuts for thinking otherwise...</div>
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<br /></div>
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<strong>Black Walnut Pie</strong></div>
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<em>recipe by me</em></div>
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<br /></div>
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single 9" pie crust</div>
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<br /></div>
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1 cup corn syrup</div>
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1/2 cup brown sugar</div>
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4 T butter, melted</div>
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3 eggs</div>
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2 T light rum</div>
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1/2 t cointreau</div>
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1 medium orange</div>
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1 T flour</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8f9F6hDKs0Y/T7OzxTuDkSI/AAAAAAAAFH4/I-Sg-5Jfr-M/s1600/black+walnut+pie+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8f9F6hDKs0Y/T7OzxTuDkSI/AAAAAAAAFH4/I-Sg-5Jfr-M/s320/black+walnut+pie+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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-prepare pie crust and fit in glass pie pan</div>
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-zest and juice the orange</div>
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-combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and eggs in large bowl</div>
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-beat until well combined-about 2-3 minutes</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jwSSTWllu-g/T7OzyNTUEhI/AAAAAAAAFIA/oIP4pNh99II/s1600/black+walnut+pie+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jwSSTWllu-g/T7OzyNTUEhI/AAAAAAAAFIA/oIP4pNh99II/s320/black+walnut+pie+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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-add melted butter, rum, cointreau, orange zest and juice</div>
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-mix until well combined<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bj0m8yX39xk/T7Oz1EfhrfI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/U0Z2yp_N56k/s1600/black+walnut+pie+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bj0m8yX39xk/T7Oz1EfhrfI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/U0Z2yp_N56k/s320/black+walnut+pie+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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-pour into prepared pie shell</div>
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-bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes</div>
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-lower oven temperature to 350 degrees</div>
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-bake an additional 30 minutes</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lT58HkUNLmU/T7Oz2VA1KfI/AAAAAAAAFIY/jTo6QDa3Doo/s1600/black+walnut+pie+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lT58HkUNLmU/T7Oz2VA1KfI/AAAAAAAAFIY/jTo6QDa3Doo/s320/black+walnut+pie+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868741328153600799.post-47539449537697638672012-05-16T12:45:00.000-05:002012-05-16T12:45:32.815-05:00Pink Petunias<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJZ1Th2hyhk/T7PleocDhoI/AAAAAAAAFIo/-X2t1_5Un1Y/s1600/petunias+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" kba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJZ1Th2hyhk/T7PleocDhoI/AAAAAAAAFIo/-X2t1_5Un1Y/s320/petunias+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Petunias are not one of my favorite flowers.</div>
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In fact, I usually avoid them in my garden or pots.</div>
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Pink is also used sparingly in my garden.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, how did I end up with a pot of pink petunias on my deck?</div>
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Good question.</div>
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Growth, I guess.</div>
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Branching (leafing, flowering?) out.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I was actually thinking of giving them to </div>
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someone who would appreciate them more.</div>
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Then a hummingbird moth chose</div>
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my petunias to dance around.</div>
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<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="195" data-width="259" height="195" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSaRK9WgOx-9DFMNoBDKpLp3WnMGi_OfbBlQETO9r8OsLtV8nN_" style="height: 195px; width: 259px;" width="259" /></div>
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Have you ever seen one?</div>
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They look just like a tiny hummingbird,</div>
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but move a little slower.</div>
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Quite amazing and lovely.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So. Lesson learned.</div>
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Expand your horizons, and beauty will follow.</div>Christine Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508705345098777946noreply@blogger.com4