Tea Party

I don't try to throw the most outrageous parties, just the ones I can afford. Very often, I find myself smiling at a fifty dollar budget. Visualizing the grand possibilities that always seem to push my creativity. I actually love challenges because instead of seeing limitations I try to see opportunities and this was one of those times.

(Dishes, borrowed $0)

Using a set of the classic "blue and white" dishes I started to create my palate. I knew that they were not the traditional colors for a girls baby shower, but I also knew that being different had a way of grasping attention so instead of changing them I crossed my fingers and took a chance. One thing about taking chances is that you can't let people influence your decision, believe in yourself and in your idea.

(Napkins, Ikea. Table cloth $25)

Even though I was pretty certain that the colors would be beautiful, I also looked for ways to add femininity to the table. At the time adding gold and yellow seemed like a good idea until I realized that they were "Royal" colors. Not wanting the guests to think that this was for a "little-prince-in-waiting" I felt stumped.

(Paper birds $6, spray painted curly willow $3)
(Plants from the yard $0)

Seeing as the weather was going to be warming up, I took the extra step in taking the table outside. I felt that it would lighten the atmosphere and give my mind some much needed air. Looking out, I recalled the popular phrase "Easy, breezy, beautiful....Cover girl" With that said, a new direction was inspired. White curtains, fresh fragrances, barefoot pleasures, and elegance. Were the few feminine things that I wanted to incorporate.

(Furniture and curtains I had so $0, lanterns $1 each)

Excited about my new approach I spent the next two weeks preparing. It seemed that even though I had my ideas in place and my challenges faced, I knew that more importantly, more then the decor, more then anything. Women love food. To gather, to sip and to chat amongst ourselves, some would say, is what we live for. But just as we would dress ourselves to the occasion we must also dress our food.

Our eyes like to be drawn to things that excite us and make us wonder. Wanting to create visual appeal I tried to incorporate this to the perimeter of the table. Adding personal dessert trifles and a delicious brew of pomegranate iced tea were ways I added texture and appeal. Quietly, they proclaimed themselves "personal".

But no matter how well any party is planned, it is still dependent on your guests for a great turnout. Being personal is one way to make your guests to feel welcomed and comfortable. It is by them that the mood of the party is determined, so when I looked at all the bare foot ladies in this picture I finally accepted that this was a success.

Verse of the week:

"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing
some people have entertained angels without knowing it"

Hebrews 13:2

Holy Rain

They say that the North West has hundreds of names for rain. This week it rained Holy rain. Not very often do the heavens fall down on me, drenching me with their grace. So I watched the rain as it continued to pour, breaking all records and penetrating into every root of life, including mine.

In the day that that work overwhelmed me, he was there with a solution. With a person and a plan that exceeded anything I could have even prayed for. Relieved, I rested in his rest.

In the day when I had nothing, He was there with everything. With a person and plan that was uncalled for but at the same time very much appreciated. Excited, I rejoiced in him.

In the day when I was doubting, He was there with a gift. With a person and a plan that was personal to me. Thankful, I accepted it.

In the day when I didn't have enough time, He was there with plenty. With a person and a plan He offered me help. And I took advantage of it.

For four days he poured into me, into my life, and into each desire. He was there. I think he was building me up for the last day when we received an offer on our house. Taken a back I questioned him. I asked him if this was his will and he spoke...

"Look at your week, look at what I have done for you. Of course my hand is on this." He said.

Reassured, I let him take it. I knew that His will was better then mine. I knew that He was able to do anything that he willed to do. And that even my desires were part of his plan.

Verse of my week:

"Because I am doing something in your days-You would not believe if you were told"
Habakkuk 1:5

His plans, my hope.

Favor Flavor

This mushroom dish is an adopted version of an appetizer 'Genius' and I had at a restaurant years ago. Sparking up old memories we spent the evening trying to capture the moment again by piecing together his recollection and mine. After we paired it with a bottle of wine and fresh bread, there could not have been anything better to bring our day to a close.

Mushrooms

6 cups Mushrooms, halved

1 shallot, minced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup of Sherry
1/2 cup of beef broth
8 tbsp unsalted butter
Parsley, chopped

Melt 2 tbsp of butter with 1 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan. Add the quartered mushrooms and saute until their juices release and they begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Reducing the heat to medium, continue to cook the mushrooms. Stir frequently as they brown, deepening the color. This should take another 10 minutes.

Add the garlic and shallots to the mushrooms and stir for a minute to release the flavors. Add the wine and stir for another minute letting it reduce slightly. Add the broth and allow the mixture to cook for another minute before turning it off. Swirl in the last of the butter, one tbsp at a time to create a silky and buttery sauce. Adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper and serve with warm bread.

Sprinkle with parsley or any of your favorite herbs. If your having it with steak, blue cheese would also be a great option. Enjoy.

Verse of my week:

Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do. Ecclesiastes 9: 7

Hope.

Helping hands

From a young age, Jenny would ask if I needed help. "No, let me finish this off myself" I'd say. "But mom....if two people work together, you'd be done much faster" she'd reply.

Little did I know that my girl had already begun to understand the concept of time. And she wholeheartedly believed that if I had more time, I would have time for her. So she did what any child could. She found small moments of possibility and asked "Can you play with me now?"

Little did she know that in a adult world there is never enough time. Even with her longing heart, her held back tears and all her strength it still took a change in me to realize that I needed to learn how to "hear" their cries and not so easily excuse them. So I started to search for moments when I could play with my children instead of finding reasons not to.

When I look at them, I see their patience. The real kind of patience that waits on people to finish and even helps. Not once being bitter, not once getting mad but hanging on to the words of promise. And when the clock strikes 1, I can almost see her face light up as she runs up the stairs to get her things. After all the barbies are in the kitchen we make lunch and discuss the plan for the next little while.

We usually have dessert with them. This one is out of yellow sponge, cut out and painted.

Perhaps get ready for a party. This ring was made our of wire and beads attached to a gem.

And some times go on a adventure. So much can happen in the back yard of a home.

I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3-4

Make time, hope.

Reign Down

The rains came in, pouring down heavily on my heart. In many ways today was a result of yesterdays problems and I knew it. Frustration had a way of coming out in questions and I wondered why God would stir up a hope that was meant for failure? What was the point of that? And now what, now what God?

I sit and I wait, I wait and I hope. At this point I wonder if I even have hope? Especially the kind that endures. I wonder how I could feel his presence all around me but yet feel so alone? I wonder how the bible can make so much sense but at the same time not be enough? I wonder if my confusion it that of doubt? I know if I doubt, I doubt him. PERIOD.

I drown myself in music, feeding off the words. Tasting their desperation in the moment that's very much my own.

Here I am down on my knees again,

Fighting to live and to breathe again,
Only surrender will help me now,
Only You can even take me now.
I know in this pain there is healing,
I believe in Your name, I find healing
Holding on another day...
Just to see what You will throw my way.
Falling apart, barely breathing
Broken heart, that's still beating
For every life there is reason.

There is something about words that's so powerful. But I had nothing left to say, nothing more to give and nothing else I could do. So I sat on the floor of my closet and let my heart do the talking this time, do the listening this once. With barely enough time to compose myself I heard the phone ring.

The conversation was about a girl who was drowning, deeper and deeper. With each moment she felt weaker, unable to move or to choose. Unable to fight she lets herself be attacked while every bone in her body cries out for help. Even in her state, when nothing can matter, she still hears the whispers of God. She still sees his hand upon her broken, tiny, frail, self and she cries. She cries because she wonders how she can feel his presence all around but yet feel so alone? She wonders why the bible makes so much sense but at the same time not be enough? In her confusion she begins to doubt. To doubt God, To doubt love, To doubt life.

In the depth of my despair I began to see the fingerprint of God on the whole day. How he used me and my situation to stir up feeling and even doubt just so I could understand this girl and pray a prayer for her. And maybe, when she lies awake at night that little voice inside her head will ring a little louder.

I sang the songs again, a song of hope for her.
Friends, hope.

"The Works"

Lagmaun

This recipe takes flavor to a whole new level. It is fresh and savory, garlicky and spicy, and flavorful but not overpowering. Seriously, this meal is the whole deal. So let's cook!

Step 1:

1 1/2 lbs. Sirloin Steak
1 tbsp oil
28 oz canned tomatoes
2 bay leaves
2-3 tomatoes, diced

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a deep skillet. Cut up a pound of Sirloin Steak, or any cut of lean beef. Saute, the beef on high until it looses its pink color. Add diced tomatoes and diced fresh tomatoes. Add a little salt and a the bay leaves, cover and let simmer on low for about an hour.

Step 2:

2 medium potatoes, cubed
2 onions, cubed
2 bell peppers, cubed
2 carrots, cubed
1 eggplant, cubed
2 zucchini, cubed
2 parsnips, cubed
2 turnips, cubed

Heat the oven to 375 F. Cube the potatoes and onions and place on one baking sheet, pour a small amount of olive oil on the baking sheet and stir the veggies to coat. Place the sheet on the top rack in the oven. While that begins to bake, cube the bell peppers and carrots of similar size and place on the second sheet. Repeat with the coating of oil. Place in the oven on the bottom rack. While this is baking cut up the parsnip and turnip, also of similar size and check on the potatoes in about 10 minutes. If they have begun to brown, they are ready.


In a large, empty pot place the browned potatoes and onions in. On the now empty baking sheet place the parsnips and turnips. Repeat with the coating of oil. Transfer the bottom baking sheet to the top and then put the parsnips and turnips on the bottom rack. This is done for even baking. Lastly, cube the eggplant and zucchini, and wait for the other veggies to finish baking. Once they are, add them to the pot and on the 2 empty baking sheets place the eggplant and zucchini. Repeat with the coating of oil and bake in the oven until ready.

Step 3:

1 lb of Linguine noodles

While the last of your veggies are baking, take out another pot to cook the pasta in. Follow the directions for the pasta on the box. Coat with oil and set aside.

Step 4:

(without water added, yet)

Check back with the eggplant. If it is ready and beginning to brown add it to the main veggie pot and then check your meat. By now, it should be tender when pierced with a fork. Add it to the pot with all of the veggies and then pour in enough water to double the amount that was in the pot. The consistency should be that of a hearty soup. Bring the stew to a boil and add salt and pepper to taste, simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.

Step 5:

1/2 English cucumber,
mandolin-ed or grated
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
1/2 cup of vinegar
Salt and Pepper

In a small bowl stir together all of the ingredients. Set aside.

Step 6:

1 can of Salsa (I use Trader Joes)
1/2 or more of Jalapeno, diced
Fresh Cilantro, chopped
1-2 Fresh tomatoes

In a food processor, pulse all of the ingredients together. Set aside in a bowl.

Step 7:

A pot of stew.
A pot of noodles.
A bowl of Cucumber salad.
A bowl of Pureed Salsa.

There is no right or wrong in this but basically you just pour yourself a bowl of veggie stew and add as many noodles as you like. Top it off with some salsa and cucumber salad. To eat, just stir together and enjoy, to make it easier use both a spoon and a fork :)

You might also enjoy this Veggie recipe.
http://outtoimpress-hope.blogspot.com/2009/06/mmmmmixed-vegtables.html

Step by step, Hope.

Mother's day

There are three things in my life that I don't question. The love of my family, the love of my kids and the love of God. We are bonded together by blood, forever. As short as the minutes in a day to the depths of the heavens in eternity, I love them and they love me back. Now, there are also three things in my life that I have to continue to show love in order for them to know it. My husband, my in-laws and my friends.

This mother's day I wanted to give my mother in law something that was not only FROM me but also WAS me. It is often said that the gift means more to the giver than the receiver and that was my intention this week.


She, like many women love accessories, delicate and beautiful things so I made this especially for her. I started with Dupioni Silk because it is known for it's depth. Nothing on earth has more depth then people. The pearl in the center was placed to match her beloved necklace. I noticed she only wears it when she feels the most beautiful. Beads were spun with a little modern flair to fit this century. To let her know that she is needed today, tomorrow and in the days ahead. Finished, I saw the diamonds last. I saw them symbolizing perfection, because she, like you and me, was created in God's image. Individual personality is breathtaking.

"For love is shown through our actions"

Mother's, hope.

Art Geek

High schools need to prepare you for the world and in that sense I think it completely did. Located in the heart of down town one of the ways we were spoiled was with the food from local businesses. Many of our lunch times were spent sitting in pizzeria's, bakeries and coffee shops. I just couldn't help but notice the delicate placed garnish's or complex sauces bordering the plates. Before I knew it I was drawn into the art of presentation.

In addition to its prime location, H.B Beal was very much esteemed for its Art Program. In the basement of our three story school we had black rooms, animation rooms, pottery kilns, fabric presses, model stages and what-ever else. I was eager to join the lower level club but at the same time they were also the people I felt I was nothing like. I wouldn't allow myself to be who I wanted to be but what was wanted of me. I knew that this was pretty typical, so I allowed the building itself to give me the courage to become me. To be creative, even if it meant that it would have to be in the basement of my heart.

Today, I am so glad that I had the opportunity to go to school that wasn't as academic as it was creative. I know now that what I experienced there was an introduction to my life. I was able to see groups of kids that didn't follow trends, but make them. I was also able to see how "nothing" became "something" and what happens when the heart leads the hands. Absolutely, did that make an impact on my life and today I finally confess that I am an "Art Geek".

During a craft night a couple months ago, I made a bow. Well a couple days later that nothing became a something and my hands were lead. Even though I only added a pleated skirt and a bow to an existing tank top, I loved the transformation so I feel a need to share. Perhaps you too have a little spark in your heart and just in case you may also have a tank top just lying around. Be encouraged in knowing that our god is a creative god who made us in his image.

My verse this week:
God saw all that he made, and it was very good. Genesis 1:31

This week I needed security in that.

Confident, hope.

My Portion

Sharing is not dependent on feelings, likes or dislikes but rather a willingness to give away regardless. A portion of your portion.

Honestly that was the hardest for me, learning how to give away something that I believed was a part of me. I felt that my successes were ME, so to "share" would mean I would have to let go of the one thing I held on to. My pride.

Isn't that what it is? Family recipes? Special Sauces? Best kept Secrets? We are people that want to have something to claim, something that would set us apart from the person sitting next to us. To give away my best, I usually need to make a choice. And this was me, up until I read this.

Once you wrap your mind around the favor God has had on you and the richness of the portion He assigned to you, even through disaster, you can't help but share your portion with others.

Lots of times it is when the world is being shaken around you that you see what you have been given. I have been given an opportunity to share. To give you my portion of the portion I have been given, because sometimes a change in action does not mean a change in perspective.

Chipotle-Rubbed Salmon Tacos

Rub:
2 tbsp Mayonnaise
1 tsp. Fresh Lime juice
2 tsp. Chipotle Chile Powder
2 tsp. Grated Orange Zest
2 tsp. Sugar
1 lb Wild Salmon
1 tbsp plus 1 tsp Extra-Virgin Oil
8 Corn Tortillas
Salt
1 Hass Avocado, Mashed
1 cup shredded cabbage
Apple-Cucumber Salsa
* I used an assortment of fish and tripled the recipe.

Apple-Cucumber Salsa:

1 Granny Smith Apple- Peeled, cored and diced finely
1/2 cucumber-peeled, seeded and diced finely
1/2 red onion, diced finely
1/2 red bell pepper, diced finely
1 1/2 tbsp white wine vinegar
1 1/2 tsp sugar
Salt, add to taste
* I used only half of the apple.

1. In a bowl, toss the apple with the cucumber, onion and pepper. Stir in the vinegar and sugar, season with salt.

2. Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a small bowl whisk the mayonnaise with the lime juice. In another bowl, combine the chipotle powder with the orange zest and sugar. Rub each piece of salmon with 1 tsp of the oil and then with the chipotle-orange zest mixture. Let stand for 5 minutes.

3. Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake for about 8 minutes, until they are softened and heated through.

4. Meanwhile, heat grill pan. Season the salmon with salt and grill over high heat until nicely browned and just cooked through, about 3 minutes per side.

5. Gently break each piece of salmon in half. Spread mashed avocado on the warm tortillas and top with the Salmon, Apple-Cucumber Salsa and the Cabbage. Drizzle each taco with the lime mayonnaise and serve right away.

Pieces of me, hope.

Sunny day

Statement necklace made by Nadia Chernichenko

There are days when it feels like I am extremely busy. And not the good, doing something purposeful kind of feeling but more like running around in the same circle, continually. The beginning of last week was kind of like that, except I couldn't stop because I wouldn't let myself. I worked on this piece for hours and if no one was dependent on it, giving up would have been easy but the problem is that sometimes I promise things I don't know if I can even deliver. So be warned. It was exhausting up until I decided to take the opportunity to learn from it. The desire was definitely there, it was just the skill that needed to be mastered. I do believe that our desires aspire to something and even though it took a couple of days, several runs to the store and probably one to many burns. I was nearing completion.

Trial and error proved itself to me this week, but with all this work I was drained. I needed some bounce back into my day. With a name like "Sunny", I would expect to get nothing less. Two hours later I not only felt better but I believed it and only a certain kind of person has that kind of gift. I have recently realized that feeling better and believing it's going to get better are two different kind of things. I left her house energized and glad I had people in my life who know just what to offer, what to say and what to do.

By Friday, I had finished the three pieces and still had the day ahead of me so I took a big break and went on a hunt to find a lamp. Along with adding a lamp, I hung up some curtains to keep the bugs out on days when the weather allows for our doors to be open. I also added an extra blanket and a few more pillows for when the rains come in. The kind of days when we hang out on the couch. Lazy days, cozy days, sick days and Sun-days.

As I sat and looked around I felt happy. Happy that I have a family and thankful that I have a home. The simplest things can make me happy, when I do the things I love. Those little extra's that seem so irrelevant to my family are things that are actually for them. I know that my mood and the atmosphere of our home sets the mood for the entire family. I sighed, took a deep breath and smiled as I waited for my stomach to butterfly. It still does when I hear the sound of the door being unlocked. Bags dropped, keys placed and shoes taken off. Nothing can be better then hearing the familiar sound of "Honey....I'm home".

Verse of my Week:

1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Hope.

Feeling Down

Last week I got to think and cruise the web. This in fact, got me a little discouraged as I looked back on my blog. It seemed that everybody else had an effortless, talented gift given to them and I scrambled to find words to write. With both a negative heart and a complainant mouth I poured into my husband for some relief. What I got, changed my perspective.

The things I gained were by far more then I could ask for from an internet-based information site. I strengthened relationships, learned how to collect thoughts and ideas together, grasp the basics on camera skills, and communicate my ideas a little better.

Now that I know how to do all these things I feel like I can add to my blog, not just the how-to's and do's of my day but everything else. I want to add another side to the hope that keeps me going. The people that are sent to encourage me and the kids that put smiles on my face, everyday to tell me that it will be okay. It is about how I see God and when. My life journal but with photos of the beautiful things that I love to look at, do and see.

I feel better, Thank you!

Dish it out

Dishes to me are simply that. Dishes. Or so I thought, until I spotted this amazing dinner plate with handles at the Dollar store. I grabbed all of them, because at this point it wasn't about want or need it was about BARGAINS and bargains surpass all the rules in my book. 13 dinner plates have never been so admired by a person, and I lovingly divided them out. Six were given away for an event I was helping with and the other seven were for...Me! Of course I wanted one more to complete my table setting of eight, but four locations later I was walking out empty handed from each one. Sad but true, perhaps you can find them near you!


With one dollar plates I allowed myself to splurge. Just a week later, I bought these cake stands from Costco. It is my very first set and I am pretty excited to add them to my kitchen collection. Using them as a centerpiece was another way for me to display a tiny tea set and the 'Tea Forte' teas. Tea forte, is known for their pyramid shaped boxes and unique combination of flavors. Check them out http://www.teaforte.com/. I order my favorite loose leaf teas online but in the meantime keep my eyes open at discount places for 'out of season' flavors. I found a box of Pomegranate Blackberry iced tea at TJ Max for pennies. The best part is, that the boxes open from the bottom so as you use up the tea, you could also fill the boxes with dried lavender to keep on the table.

Brew up, hope.

Catch Up!

So it finally hit me. I was sick and I wasn't taking it well. First I took too many vitamins to boost the immune and then I walked around the house refusing to rest. I was in this groove of being frustrated and exhausted when I cut myself making a salad. As I sat in urgent care I realized how much it took for me to stop. A glued up finger and a bill in my hand I somehow reached my "aha!" moment.

I needed to stop and so I did, until today. Yay. I am back on my feet. I bought a couple new pillows (Liberty from Target is awesome!), caught up on a billion loads of laundry and started working on my new job of what I like to call "encouraging-my-husband". First day in, I worked on his business website, spent a little play time with the kids, cleaned the house and had enough time to throw together a chili.

I know it sounds like a bunch of stuff but I have been collecting energy for a week now, besides the best chili is the one our friends "The Roaches" make and I can't compete. With that said, "Bear Creek's" Darn-good chili works for me. I like to put my own veggies and meat in it with a can of diced tomatoes, its a hassle-free chili that is ready in half an hour.

The days are good again. Brighter even in a gloomy day like today.

Back on schedule, ladies. Hope, hope, hope, hope, hope :)

Pantry Procrastination

I have been putting my pantry off for a while but when I found these plastic lids to the cans that I already had it seemed like the perfect opportunity to finally do something about it.

The first thing I did was give all the items in my pantry a category.

- Baking, Except for flours which I store in a separate drawer for easy reach.
- Grains, I have about 15 different kinds that I use for cooking.
- Canned goods, and this includes every type.
- Snacks for kids
- Sweet Treats for the Adults
- Boxed things that don't fall into the previous categories.
- Packages that don't stand up need to be put in square baskets.

Next, I organized all the neat things like boxes and then the packaged things, which mostly contained snacks that had to be put in plastic baskets. I determined the best places for them and put them on shelves based on use. I did the canned things and bottled things. I had a lot, and the cans worked well in the pantry but things like spices, oils and vinegars did better in a cabinet. I also had a bunch of sweet, sugary stuff that did better in a basket and further away from the children.

Now comes the reason for this post, filling those jars. Before I could never remember what I had in comparison to what I didn't. Bags that were taped and placed on top of the other was not an organization method I could work with so this was an improvement and now I know why.
I had.....

- brown and red lentils
- white and brown rice
- white and red beans
- corn meal
- Bulgar wheat
- Corn meal, or polenta
- oats and cream of wheat
- whole wheat and white spaghetti
- linguine and other dry pastas
- Chow Mien noodles
- Pearl Barley

....in the grains and wheat section.

I had.....

- white, dark, milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, peanuts and sunflower seeds
- raisins, cranberries and currants
- dark and light brown, white and powdered sugars
- cornstarch and baking powder
- cocoa powder
- unsweetened and sweetened coconut
- rapid and active yeast

....in the baking section.

Well that does it, and as I expand my methods in the kitchen I am sure my pantry will continue to grow. What I have found is that I am able to look inside and see what areas need to be filled when I prepare my grocery list for the week.

This was simply my side of my kitchen so thank you for letting me share. If this sounds like something you want to do in your pantry I bought the lids at Fred Meyers and they were under four dollars for a box of 8.

Organizing, hope.

Growing a Sewing Seed

I have been dreaming about a craft room for a few years now but only recently did I finally find a place for my sewing machine. It was interesting to find that walking by it several times a day, ideas would come. Everything seemed like it needed to be altered, adjusted and fixed. Recalling a fabric sample I purchased years ago, I couldn't help but play around with it.

Later, when I watched her twirl about I realized that I potentially planted my very own seed for sewing, just by making some room on a counter. This was also the very first "wearable" thing I have ever made and taking just an hour to make, I was excited to hopefully be able to add a whole new collection of these spring skirts to my little girl's closet.

Placed, hope.

Pome-quat Salmon Salad

About a month ago we went to "The Fish Grotto" in Portland for dinner. It was a restaurant that had a better impression in the inside then on the outside. It was very dark inside, with leather upholstery and rich finishes on the wood and I was skeptical at first. Darkness bothers me, to me it feels unsanitary in a hidden kind of way but looking around I noticed that even though the place was old it was very clean as well as updated. Using modern lighting they somehow managed to make the atmosphere seem light and easy. Looking at the menu it offered the usual classic dishes and I searched for something new. Its not always that I know exactly what I want, but this happened to be a day where I did. I wanted sweetness to be set apart with tartness, crisp to contrast against the smooth finish, and fruity to be savory.

This was not traditional by any means and I asked the waiter if they had any specials. As it turned out they did. With the restaurant being so old they kept the classic menu as well as hire on a chef that could create a "specials" menu every week using seasonal ingredients. I was thrilled to eat a salad that kept me interested enough to not only attempt to make at home but crave it again and again.

Here is my version, it doesn't do it justice but I still love it.

Kumquat and Pomegranate Salmon Salad

1/2 cup of Kumquats
1/2 cup of Pomegranate Seeds
(Trader Joes has Frozen ones)
1/2 cup green onion
1/2 Bunch Green leaf lettuce
Salmon, salted and fried.

Orange Muscat Champagne Vinaigrette

1/4 cup Muscot Orange Champane Vinegar
(Get it at Trader Joes)
1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Little bit of honey
Salt and Pepper to Taste

Make the salad by chopping the greens, halving the Kumquats and shredding the salmon. Add the pomegranate seeds and make the vinaigrette. Since it is a small batch I use a medium measuring cup and whisk. Add the honey, vinegar and a pinch of salt as well as pepper. Begin to whisk the ingredients as you add the oil in a steady stream until incorporated. Taste the flavor because I don't measure the amount of oil so you might need to adjust it a little to suit your preference.

Seasonal, Hope

Blue Jeans

Today I felt inspired by an old pair of jeans. Besides needing an alteration I used the bottom edge to create this adorable accessory for my "American Girl". Taking about 10 minutes out of my day we had enough time to go play at a park.

It can be used as a belt, head band or anything else you can tie it up to. I did find that the jean material is heavy so keep that in mind. All in all, I love the look and I am excited to hem up another pair of jeans, just to see what else it can do.

To create this, simply cut the bottom edge off the length of the pants. Cut on one of the seams to break open the circle and starting from one end roll it up. Use a glue gun to glue as you roll. Attach the flowers together and pick a ribbon, elastic or headband to attach them to. To finish, cut out some felt for the backing and attach.

The fun part is that the more distressed it is, the better. So find that old pair of jeans your daughter doesn't fit into any more and make them into something she can.

Blue Jean, hope.

Drawn to Details

I like things to be hindering above the surface, quietly. The kind of things that can easily be missed. The flavors that linger in your mouth and you just can't put your finger on it. Things that you taste, see and touch that make you wonder why you even like them. Anything that makes me do a double take, I am drawn to.


Right on the sidewalk we found this little birds nest at a park, abandoned and wet. Now, perched up on the branches I have found it a new home and a new owner. This porcelain bird was a gift from my sister-in-law, chirping around from season to season it made its way to an egg.


If you liked this you may also enjoy http://outtoimpress-hope.blogspot.com/2009/03/spring-time-forward.html
Lingering, hope.

Women Mentoring Women

We each have our great moments. The days where the sun shines brighter, our smile is wider and our lives are right where they need to be. In between those days there are days where we battle our kids, contemplate our choices and wonder if there is anything more to our lives. It seems that in a month's worth of time I am on a roller coaster of a ride and without doubt I know that there will be a day when I will simply be EXHAUSTED. Being a person who is pretty upbeat about life, I believe that my choices make my life to be as simple or complicated as I like. The truth is that no matter how great my life is, is is still filled with doubts, fears and struggles. On those days I need some thing that I can feel safe in, a place where I can unload the biggest load and be understood. Spiritually, I seek comfort in words at a time when I feel like I am lacking and fallen short of my purpose in not only my family but myself.

For these reasons and more I encourage you to find a Women's group that will welcome you. People that share their struggles so that you can face them without fear. Women that come together and empower one another because they understand that this journey is not your's to be taken alone but with the help of each other. I look forward to learning from people who have made it, women that have raised there children to be servants for the lord. Women that have lived, worked, breathed the air that I am. Women that have fallen down and stood back up to tell me their testimony, just so that it would be easier for me. (Contact me if this is something you are interested in).

Each month I bake a little treat for the center of the table. This month it was scones and if anytime soon you will be having a "sunshine kind of morning" perhaps you might be enlightened enough to bake these.

Currant Scones
Recipe courtesy of Williams Sonoma

Scones

2 14 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 cup firmly packed golden brown sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
6 Tbsp chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 large egg
3/4 cup heavy cream plus more for glazing
1/2 cup dried currants
1/4 cup minced crystallized ginger
3 tbsp. granulated sugar

Brown Sugar Butter:

1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
2 tbsp. firmly packed dark brown sugar

Preheat the oven to 400 F. Lightly butter a rimmed baking sheet.

To make the scones in a food processor, combine the flour, golden brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salg and pulse briefly to mix. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles course corn meal. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and the 3/4 cup cream until blended. Pour the egg mixture into the processor and pulse just until the mixture holds together.

Turn mixture out onto a lightly floured work surface, knead in the currants and ginger, and bring the dough together into a ball. Using a floured rolling pin, roll out the dough 1/2 inch thick. Using a fluted biscuit cutter 3 inches in diameter, cut out as many rounds. Gather the scraps into a ball and roll out again. Transfer the rounds to the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops lightly with cream and sprinkle evenly with sugar.

Bake the scones until golden, about 15 mins. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool for at least 15 mins or for up to 1 hour before serving.

Meanwhile make the brown sugar butter: in a bowl, whisk together the butte rand sugar until well combined and creamy. Pack into a crock and set aside.

More, hope

Valentines Day

This was written and inspired by love, from a boy to a girl. Long ago, when I was young...er.

It is twenty past eight and I'm standing alone, thinking of you again.
I stand staring at the water as it jumps with each drop of summer rain.
Like the beating of one's heart.

The grass is laden with dew;the air is filled with the scent of new beginnings,
And yet all I can think about....is you.

I stand atop this hill alone, gazing deeply into nature's glory.
Her beauty is serene, it is absolute, and it is the perfect story.
I see the beauty of God's creation and it make me want to cry,
I shed a tear, so sincere, I wipe it from my eye.

I cannot help but look in awe;I see it in the distance
God has given me a perfect rainbow. Time stands still, just this single instance.

The moment seems too perfect, this perfect place in time,
It seems too good to be so real, this moment cannot be mine.
For in my heart I feel so empty, there is but one thing on my mind
I am thinking of you and only you,
Why, oh why must I die with so much inside?

God has given me this perfect moment, in this perfect place in time,
Yet you are not here to share it, you cannot see it, You cannot feel its wondrous grace.

Oh, how I wish you were here with me, to see this glorious view,
For I would give up all of this just to be with you.
You are my beauty, my paradise, my wondrous delight.
But how it saddens me inside that I cannot be your knight.

I feel a pain you cannot know, I hold a sadness I will not show
I hear a thunder in the distance;I see a vision of us,
And I feel the pain that was given on a sad day of loss.

Why had I been so timid, why was I so damn shy;
I should have asked you for your hand before I let you fly.
My chance with you seems over now;I have fallen out of place;
I cannot let you know my feelings; I would not dare loose face.

For if you and me meant hurting you, than I would not interfere;
I would not break your happiness with the one you hold so dear.
I only wish to tell you so; I love you may then you may ever know,
I know this now from knowing you; I cannot deny it...It is true.

We have been so close these past few years, for all this reason, I come to tears.
It seemed so right, It was meant to be
But you chose some one you barely knew, Instead of choosing me.

Why? Oh, God, how could I have been so blind? This is not paradise I see
It is only in my mind. For in my thoughts my vision is true; I can see me here with only you!

Paradise is such a place for it would hold such glory;
I wish that I could be with you, you are my perfect story.
A thousand words I have to say, not one of them describes,
The way I feel in my heart, the way I feel inside.

If one thousand poets were given one thousand years,
If one thousand lovers were to shed one thousand tears,
Not one of these in the heavens above could ever come close
To the love I have for you.

The mere sight of you has always made me weak;
Even today I still get nervous when I am with you,
I find it hard to speak.

For this reason, I wrote my heart out.

Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake

Base Layer

6 tbsp Unsalted Butter, cut into 6 pieces
7 oz. Bittersweet Chocolate, chopped fine
3/4 tsp. instant espresso powder
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
4 lg. eggs, separated
1 pinch salt
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

Middle Layer

2 tbsp. Dutch-processed cocoa powder
5 tbsp. hot water
7 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped fine
1 1/2 cup cold heavy cream
1 tbsp sugar
1/8 tsp. salt

Top Layer

3/4 tsp powdered gelatin
1 tbsp. water
6 oz. white chocolate, chopped fine
1 1/2 cups cold heavy cream
Shaved Chocolate for serving (optional)

For the Base Layer:

Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 325 F. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9 1/2 by 3 inch spring form pan. Melt the butter, chocolate and espresso powder in a large heat proof bowl set over a saucepan filled with 1 inch of barely simmering water stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from the heat and cool for 5 minutes. Whisk in the vanilla and egg yolks; set aside.

In the clean bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites and salt at medium speed until frothy, about 30 secs. Add half of the brown sugar and beat until combined, about 15 secs. Add the remaining brown sugar and beat at high speed until soft peaks form, about 1 minute longer,. Using a whisk, fold in one-third of the beaten whites into the chocolate mixture. Using a rubber spatula, ford in the remaining whites until no streaks remain. Transfer the batter to the spring form pan, gently smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake until the cake's center has set but is still soft (it will spring back after pressing gently with your finger) 13-18 mins. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely, about 1 hour. The cake will collapse as it cools, do not remove the cake from the pan.

For the middle layer:

Combine the cocoa powder and hot water in a small bowl;set aside. Melt the chocolate in a large heatproof bowl set over a saucepan filled with 1 inch of barely simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from the heat and cool slightly. 2 to 5 mins.

In the clean bowl of a stanad mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the cream, sugar and salt at the medium speed until it begins to thicken, about 30 secs. Increase the speed to high and whip until soft peaks form, 15 to 60 secs. Whisk in the cocoa powder mixture in the melted chocolate until smooth. Using a whisk, fold on-third of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the remaining whipped cream until no streaks remain. Spoon the mousse over the cooled cake and gently tap the pan on the counter 3 times to remove any large air bubbles: gently smooth the top with an offset spatula. Wipe the inside edge of the spring form pan with a damp cloth to remove any drips. Refrigerate the cake at least 15 mins while preparing the white chocolate mousse.

For the top layer:

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water; let stand at least 5 mins. Place the white chocolate in a medium bowl. Bring 1/2 cup of the cream to a simmer in the small saucepan over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat; add the gelatin mixture and stir until fully dissolved. Pour the cream mixture over the chocolate and whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth, about 30 secs. Cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally, 5-8 mins, until thickened.

In the clean bowl of the stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the remaining 1 cup cream at medium speed until it begins to thicken, about 30 secs. Increase the speed to high and whip until soft peaks form when the whisk is lifted, 15 to 60 secs. Using a whisk, fold in 1/3 of the whipped cream into the white chocolate mixture to lighten. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the remaining whipped cream into the white chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain. Spoon the white chocolate mousse into the pan over the bittersweet chocolate mousse layer. Smooth the top with an offset spatula. Return the cake to the refrigerator and chill until set, at least 2 1/2 hours. (The cake can be refrigerated up to 1 day; let it sit at room temperature for 45 mins before releasing the cake from the pan and serving)

To serve the cake

Garnish the top with chocolate curls. Run a thin knife arougn teh inside of the springform pan;remove the side of the pan. Smooth the side of the the cake witha clean knife. Cut into slices and serve.

Recipe courtesy of America's Test Kitchen

Layered, hope

Chocolate Tease

In preparation for Valentines Day, I baked a Chocolate Cake. In the spirit of things I was pretty excited because it is not often that I even find a recipe that interests me. So this was, in itself, an occasion. As I heated, melted, whipped and baked the first layer of my Triple Chocolate Cake there was a knock on my door.

I love unexpected guests, drop-ins and almost any type of visitor there is and by the sound of the door my day was only getting better. Inviting the guest in, I prepared tea and we gibber-jabbered over our lives. In light of my good mood, I decided to share the partially made cake and "whip up" another one later in the day. Even though the cake wasn't quite ready it was the "warm-out-of-the-oven chocolate" that takes your breath away and satisfies every hormone in your body. Yums.

Later on that evening I baked the second time around with a little bit more confidence. I patiently waited for it to cool as we had dinner with the family and lovingly prepared the mousse. It needed to set for a couple of hours and I was okay with it because of my previous indulgence.

I love new recipes, I also think that it is the only time that I actually enjoy the food going into my mouth so I was pretty excited to eat my cake late into the night, with my tea and my T.V. The satisfaction I get out of calories and laziness is a pleasure I work hard for. It was just one of those days when I wanted chocolate and a lot of it.

Well, it turned out that it wasn't just me that had this urge and when we were out of the house I found out that my dear sister-in-law took my cake to her party. This seemed a little over the top, but just as fast as I was surprised I felt it was also a compliment. Here's the email that inspired this post.

Nadia, I am not surprised the most amazing cake i have ever tasted came from your kitchen!!! I gotta say though that I felt pretty bad that (some one) decided she would take almost all of it. You gotta let me make it up to you :) Ill make you one of my tastiest creations but there is a catch...we have to exchange recipes. I just have to make that chocolate goodness for my mom and prove to her one more time that, I can too bake!! hehe :) Thank you so much Nadia it was delicious.

So that's the whole length of the story and for my one big fan I will be posting the recipe tomorrow.

Humbled, hope

The Chair

In the midst of all the junk, the broken and used. It stood out like no other object there and as I approached the chair, I was completely amazed. It would be a perfect fit in my home. Without any delay I dragged the chair with one arm and the three kids in the other until suddenly, it dawned on me. Was this chair some thing we needed or some thing I wanted? WANT. I knew that from the top of my head we had at least 15 chairs downstairs, but what was one more, Right? A little voice inside my head urged me to put the chair down and this time I listened. Right where I was walking, I set it down and didn't even look back. Little did I know that three days later when I returned for my chair, it would be half off. Little did I know that it would wait for me, just as I had left it. Patient for it's rightful owner. That day, I paid seven dollars for a chair at Salvation Army as well as remind myself that it pays to wait.

Patient, hope.

Kitchen Necessities

I spend a lot of time in the kitchen. If its not dinner guests, then it's friends for lunch or simple conversation over tea. We throw parties, we hold events and more then not we host holidays. Food is always coming and going just as much as people are. This means preparation (it doesn't just land there ) and a kitchen that holds the proper necessities. Now, I know that I have more then perhaps what is required and with the recent purchase of a baking book I was intrigued when I found a list for it.

Baking list:
The small stuff......the stuff I flip through in catalogs and wonder if people put use into them.

Measuring spoons. "Check".
Measuring cups, for both dry measures and liquid measures. "Check", as of a week ago.
Icecream scoops in various sizes, from 1/2 inch to 2 inches. I have one, so "Incomplete".
Rolling pin. "Check", I think I might have 2.
Wire whisks, small and medium. I have a medium one, so "incomplete".....again.
Off set spatulas. Large, for frosting and small, for cookies and other tasks. "Check, Check!"
Heat resistant Silicone spatula, for hot mixures. "Check" BTW, very important.
Wooden spatula. "Check....."
Large metal (barbecue type) spatula. "Check".
Ruler. "Check".
Nonstick baking liner (such as silpat brand). The best purchase EVER! But I need a new one.
Parchment paper. I didn't know that this is not the same as Wax paper....I learned. "Check".
Mixing bowls in assorted sizes. "Check".
Sieves, medium and fine mesh. The fine mesh one is in almost every recipe! who knew? "Need".
Cookie cutters, plain and fluted, round and other shapes, in various sizes. I have a ton of playdough cutters....so "check" until further notice.
Knives, chef's, paring, and serrated. My ONE knife is my best friend. "Kershaw" Rocks.
Microplane or other rasp-type grater (for citrus and nutmeg). "Need". I always just used the reg.
Citrus juicer, handheld reamer or electric. I have both. Nothing beats fresh squeezed OJ.
Pastry blender for making doughs (if you don't have a stand mixer). "Check".
Metal or plastic pastry scraper. I don't know what this is....Help, Wickapedia, Help!
Pastry brush. "Check". If paint brushes count.
Disposable pastry bags and star and plain pastry tips. "Check" but it's not disposable.
Thermometers, instant and candy. I gave away the candy one and now I need one.....sucks.
Slotted spoons. "Check"
Short-handled tongs. "Check".
Sugar shaker. Hmmmm. I have a small sieve. Does any one know the difference?
Plastic airtight containers (for storing cookies and such) "No" We don't usually have leftovers....because I will eat them all, really.

Well, that does it. And it looks like I have a list on my hands. All in all though, I thought this was a great starting point to my kitchen. I like focus and direction because there are many times when my eyes wander off to other things that are shiny and nice, so it's good to know the difference from the things that are important from the things that are not.

It's time to look into those drawers, happy finding.

"Check", hope.