tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75765419502156530332024-03-13T03:51:42.930-07:00Domestic BlissFinding happiness in homemakingAlexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.comBlogger307125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-11774779186489809292012-11-23T05:13:00.000-08:002012-11-23T05:13:00.463-08:00Baby Bandana Bib<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My lil' dude starting drooling before he was 3 months old. I saw these cute bandana bibs on <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2012/9/23/mollys-sketchbook-bandana-bibs.html">Purl Bee</a> a while back and didn't think too much of them until I had the exact same thought as the author: putting a regular bib on him makes him look like he's ready to eat, but not wearing a bib is no longer an option.<br />
So it was clearly time to make him a cute bib disguised as a bandana around his neck.<br />
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I'm also enjoying these because they give him a little extra warmth around his neck which is one area that is often exposed to the cold when I wear him in any sort of carrier.<br />
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<br />Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-35267767820161186402012-11-08T06:10:00.000-08:002012-11-08T06:10:52.058-08:00Big Winter Cowl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been eyeing this <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/striped-cotton-cowl/">Purl Soho pattern</a> for what feels like forever. Before my son was born I decided it would soon come to fruition and the opening of a <a href="http://dartmouthyarns.com/">new yarn shop in my neighbourhood</a> seemed like the perfect push I needed to get started. </div>
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I really loved the idea of using thread throughout as a way to add different spurts of colour but couldn't find thread that was affordable enough at my local shop. So I chose one big ball of multi colored sock yarn, and just altered how many strands of the sock yarn I used (or didn't use) to create a similar effect.</div>
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I love how thick and wide it is and have already been wearing it non-stop. So cozy! </div>
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Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-68652909773426688322012-10-23T11:39:00.001-07:002012-10-23T11:51:09.224-07:00Brown Butter Spiced Winter Squash Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh boy. This was a good one. I think I easily polished off the whole loaf by day two.<br />
The spices! The texture! Oh my I do adore this cakey bread.<br />
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The recipe comes from none other than my current favourite Ms. Heidi Swanson of <a href="http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/brown-butter-spice-cake-recipe.html">101 Cookbooks</a>. I followed the recipe pretty much completely as is, except I used walnut oil instead of hazelnut, and I made my own garam masala-esque blend of spices (coriander, cumin, ginger, black pepper, bay leaf, cardamom, and clove).<br />
One bizarre thing I did do though was NOT measure my squash. Yup, that's right, I chopped, roasted, and pureed it but somewhere in my zombie mom brain I didn't think about measuring the damn stuff. Oh well, turns out lady luck was on my side and this turned out great. Now the only thing is I wonder how it'll turn out the next time...<br />
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Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-13560304577285132942012-10-23T11:27:00.005-07:002012-10-23T11:52:01.582-07:00Beet & Corn Hash <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This post seemed have gotten lost in the shuffle somewhere. Seems a little out of place now that we're almost heading into November but it was delish so here it is nonetheless!</span></i></div>
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I love meals that really represent the transition of seasons, especially summer to fall. Lately I've been diving into fall produce while still trying to use up some of late summers best offerings. I feel like the addition of sweet fresh corn really adds a touch of summer to an otherwise heavy fall dish. </div>
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No recipe this time, just hoping to inspire you to take a breakfast staple like hash and give it a good ol' seasonal twist!</div>
<br />Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-29882724770806142992012-09-23T13:40:00.000-07:002012-09-23T13:40:14.892-07:00Summer Squash Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So it's official. This is the time for soup. </div>
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Not just weather wise, but baby wise. </div>
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I've quickly realized that soup is the perfect meal for me to cook while taking care of the babe while my husband's at work. I start it late in the morning while the babe is napping, eat some for lunch then serve the rest for dinner, or just save it for another days lunch. If the babe wakes up and I have to leave my cooking, it's so easy to just take it off the heat or turn it down while putting it together, and of course once its done its perfect to just leave on the low heat ready for whenever I can sit down and eat some.</div>
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I wish I had found this recipe earlier. It's the perfect way to use up oodles of zucchini or other summer squash that we all end up having a little too much of now and then. With a hint of coconut milk and green curry, this simple soup was another great way to celebrate the transition into fall. I think I'll definitely be making this again this winter with some of the zucchini I've tucked away into my freezer.<br />
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Adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Super-Natural-Every-Day-Well-Loved/dp/1580082777/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348432755&sr=8-1">"Super Natural Everyday" by Heidi Swanson</a><br />
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2 tablespoons green curry paste<br />
3 tablespoons vegetable oil<br />
3 large shallots, chopped<br />
salt<br />
1 1/2 pounds* summer squash or zucchini, chopped into cubes<br />
12 ounces* potatoes<br />
4 cloves garlic, minced<br />
4 cups vegetable broth<br />
1 can coconut milk<br />
juice of one lime<br />
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tofu**, diced<br />
oil for frying<br />
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sesame oil and slivered fresh basil for additional garnish<br />
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In a large soup pot mash the curry paste with the oil until well incorporated. Heat over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute) then add shallots and a large pinch of salt. Saute until shallots are tender then stir in potatoes and squash and cook until squash begins to become tender. Stir in the garlic then add the broth and coconut milk. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer and cook until potatoes are tender.<br />
While soup is cooking in a small pan heat oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and fry until browned on one side, then toss to continue browning. Once tofu is golden and slightly firm set aside.<br />
Add lime juice to soup and puree. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (more salt, curry paste or lime juice) and serve with fried tofu croutons, a drizzle of sesame oil and some slivered fresh basil.<br />
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*I didn't weigh my vegetables but used 2 medium-large (a little smaller than my forearm) zucchinis, and about 4 or 5 small potatoes.<br />
**I used 4 sheets of sweetened fried tofu meant for inari.Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-17018552933822414792012-09-18T06:24:00.000-07:002012-09-18T06:24:49.330-07:00Quirky Baby Cardigan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7hDzc6X_XMk/UFh0T_psaSI/AAAAAAAABWA/io3MjsXMjhM/s1600/DSC02943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7hDzc6X_XMk/UFh0T_psaSI/AAAAAAAABWA/io3MjsXMjhM/s400/DSC02943.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The great thing about knitting for tiny babies is how quickly clothes can come together. This little sweater was so quick to knit up. The only thing that slowed me down was um, having to take care of the little babe who was to wear it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made this little number for the upcoming cool fall days. So far the mornings are cool enough that he needs a sweater but by midday he could be in shorts. My other knit sweater I've made for him (shown on baby below) is too annoying to put on/take off repeatedly. Also I feel like this one won't be too warm for him to wear while he's in a carrier because the front is open. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I roughly based this sweater off a pattern from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Last-Minute-Knitted-Gifts-Joelle-Hoverson/dp/1584798602/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1347974642&sr=8-3">Joelle Hoverson's "More Last Minute Knitted Gifts"</a> but changed the dimensions a lot and then ended up realizing it was too small and added the grey portions for more coverage. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-54818698630041846162012-09-15T09:18:00.001-07:002012-09-23T13:41:15.641-07:00Beet Greens with Tofu and Soba Noodles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When the end of summer nears closer and closer I feel myself clinging to the seasons best produce; green beans, tomatoes, peaches, and berries. Even though I'm actually slowly getting tired of these foods and actually can't wait to dive into my first winter squash or bag of brussels sprouts, I just feel like I need to avoid eating fall/winter vegetables as long as I can because before I know it beets, potatoes, cabbage and turnips will be some of my only culinary choices. </div>
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During todays market trip however I just couldn't help myself. Its been weeks that I've been eyeing bunches of beets and piles of winter squash and I couldn't resist them any longer. We're heading out of the city for a few days tomorrow so I knew I needed to make quick work of the beet greens before my refrigerators crisper gets to them first. </div>
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I think every fall I search for new exciting things to do with beets, especially the greens. I love their flavour but often find it quite overpowering.</div>
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After checking all my usual sources for inspiration and finding nothing, google provided me with this recipe from <a href="http://www.canadianliving.com/food/sesame_wilted_beet_greens.php">Canadian Living</a>. I added this yummy tofu my friend Renee got me hooked on, as well as cashews and soba noodles. It was the perfect quick Saturday lunch! </div>
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Inspired by <a href="http://www.canadianliving.com/food/sesame_wilted_beet_greens.php">Canadian Living</a></div>
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soba noodles</div>
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1-2 tablespoons sesame seeds</div>
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handful of cashews, halved or chopped</div>
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tablespoon vegetable oil</div>
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small block of tofu (I used some packaged fried and sweetened tofu used to make Inari)</div>
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clove of garlic</div>
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small nub of ginger</div>
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bunch of beet greens, sliced in wide ribbons</div>
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2-3 tablespoons of sesame oil</div>
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Boil soba noodles in boiling salted water, drain and set aside.<br />
In a large skillet or wok toast sesame seeds over medium-high heat. They'll start to brown and smell fragrant when ready. Transfer to bowl and set aside. Toast or lightly brown cashews in the same manner and set aside.<br />
Add a bit of vegetable oil to pan and add tofu. Let cook for a few minutes then add grated ginger and garlic. Toss in beet greens and stir well. Drizzle sesame oil over greens liberally and continue to toss in pan as the greens wilt, about 3 minutes.<br />
Add seeds and nuts to pan and remove from heat.<br />
Top soba noodles with greens and serve hot.<br />
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<br />Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-72792496967350332492012-09-04T13:34:00.000-07:002012-09-04T13:34:50.111-07:00Color Block Baby Sweater<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rfvefvS7eHU/UEZEH4o5j3I/AAAAAAAABUk/uZrLTBwkIjM/s1600/DSC02899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rfvefvS7eHU/UEZEH4o5j3I/AAAAAAAABUk/uZrLTBwkIjM/s400/DSC02899.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another cute little hand knit for my cute little guy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I started this sweater the week he was born and was about half way through the blue when he decided to show up. I worked on it a bit in the hospital and then at home I slowly figured out how to juggle knitting and nursing. I was planning on it just being 4 colors but I not only ran out of yellow yarn but also misjudged how much yarn I'd need for the yoke so I had to add the white. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fx6r7TWxERw/UEZE2Jxbj_I/AAAAAAAABUs/rGlQqCXlOuA/s1600/DSC02901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fx6r7TWxERw/UEZE2Jxbj_I/AAAAAAAABUs/rGlQqCXlOuA/s400/DSC02901.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is definitely my sharpest looking hand knit (thanks merino yarn!) and I think it's making my husband envious. Time to pull out the sweater I started for him <i>last year</i> so I can finally finish it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By the way, I used <a href="http://yarngear.blogspot.ca/2006/11/striped-raglan-for-baby-updated.html">this pattern</a> for a seamless raglan in case you're interested.</div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-37634483334650875762012-09-01T08:13:00.001-07:002012-09-01T13:08:54.317-07:00Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've had a real hankerin' for some classic chocolate chip cookies lately. I've often been a bit overwhelmed when looking for "the perfect" recipe for this classic cookie, and have just as often been disappointed with the results. This cookie is soft, not tooth-achingly-sweet and has just the right amount of chocolate in it. Just what I've been searching for!<br />
Pair it with a cold glass of milk and you've got my favourite after dinner snack.<br />
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Not only do I love how these taste but they feel so fast to throw together. The recipe is simple enough that I'm sure I'll commit to memory after a few more times making them, and something about the melted butter step just seems to speed it all up which I'm grateful for these days.<br />
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Recipe from <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2009/03/crispy-chewy-chocolate-chip-cookies/">Smitten Kitchen</a><br />
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2 cups flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt (I used coarse salt)<br />
3/4 cup butter, melted<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup white sugar<br />
1 tablespoon vanilla extract<br />
1 egg<br />
1 egg yolk<br />
2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips<br />
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.<br />
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Combine flour, baking soda and salt together and set aside. In a large bowl mix melted butter with sugars and combine well. Add vanilla and eggs, and mix until smooth and combined. Mix in dry ingredients then stir in chocolate chips.<br />
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Roll cookies into small balls and place 2 inches apart on cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes (mine took a bit closer to 15) but do not over bake. They will not look golden but will start to be starting to firm up a bit. Let cool on a wire rack to cool completely.<br />
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<br />Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-76234570439562775992012-08-27T09:18:00.000-07:002012-08-27T09:18:09.461-07:00Lev's Birth Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you may have figured out, much to my surprise and delight this little guy showed up three weeks early on Saturday August 11th! Motherhood feels amazing and I'm loving every single moment with him. Isn't he just perfect?!<br />
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If you're interested in our birth story just click "read more" below.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>When I reached 37 weeks of pregnancy and was considered full term I was sure that my baby would being staying put for at least another few weeks. I had only experienced braxton hicks contractions once a few weeks before and was feeling completely fine. So fine that it bordered on boring. NOTHING out of the ordinary was happening and certainly nothing that would signal birth was a few short days away. We were quite prepared though. Hospital bags were packed, we had pre-registered at the hospital, our freezer was stocked with food, nursing and diapering supplies purchased, and even had a birth playlist assembled to make our hospital delivery more comfortable. All we had left to do was have our final meeting with our doula, and write out our birth plan.<br />
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Friday night was business as usual. It was another super hot summer night, we ate grilled smokies and corn on the cob for dinner, watched some star trek and had ice cream sundaes for dessert. The next morning at 6am I was woken up by feeling my water breaking. I was a bit skeptical that it had really happened, but as water continued to gush out of me as I waddled around I realized it really couldn't be anything else. I woke up Zane and had to convince him that no, I didn't just pee the bed, this was go-time. </div>
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Initially we were both stricken with the thought of what might happen if my contractions don't start soon enough. We tried not to worry and decided to go for a walk to help move things along. As we left the house headed for our cafe I began to feel some menstrual like cramps. I didn't get too excited but knew that it was most likely a sign that things would progress on their own. Phew!</div>
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We had breakfast and coffee and took a few trips up and down a nearby flight of stairs just in case my body needed a little more encouragement. By the time we left the cafe my cramps were coming more frequently and starting to feel more like contractions. </div>
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As we walked home we ran into our friends Jeff and Andrew who were shocked to hear our water had broken and asked when we were heading to the hospital. "Oh I don't know, maybe not until tonight or tomorrow. You never know how long these things can take", we said as we had decided we wanted to labour at home as long as possible. We made plans to meet up with Jeff in an hour or so and walk to the farmers market which is a Saturday morning ritual for us. We got home and after talking to our doula we decided it was time I got into some yoga postures designed to help the baby find the right way down. I also tried lying down to rest, and walking around when it felt right. During breaks from contractions I flipped through literature on positions for coping with pain, hoping to refresh my memory on what I should be doing.</div>
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By this point my contractions were feeling like "real" contractions and I realized there was no way I would be walking to the farmers market in my state. Jeff and his girlfriend Chelsea brought us over some fresh fruit from the market (which was so great!) but by that time my contractions were real enough that I needed some serious concentration to work through them. They left and we asked our doula to come join us as I was starting to have trouble finding coping methods for the pain. </div>
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She arrived around 9:30am and helped me work through each contraction and helped me rest in between. Up until now we had be trying to keep track of the contractions ourselves but they were pretty all over the map. Sometimes 4 minutes apart and lasting 40 seconds, other times they were only a minute or two apart and lasting around 1 minute. I stopped bothering to monitor them once our doula was there and just let her take care of me. Zane cleaned up the house realizing that by the next time we'd be home we'd be too busy to clean up.</div>
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The contractions were starting to really tire me out (and freak me out) and I asked our doula how things were going. Was I progressing well? Is everything happening like it should? She looked at me with a sort of surprised look on her face and said "Uh, yeah. Things are progressing really well." which gave me the impression that this was perhaps an unusually fast progression. It felt good to know things were moving along quickly but it at the same time it felt like it was all happening so fast I couldn't really wrap my head around it. </div>
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By 10:30am I felt like I had to pee (although wasn't entirely sure I would be able to) and my doula suggested sitting on the toilet backwards so I'd be in a more comfortable position in case I had another contraction. Well I did, and without realizing it I was clearly getting the urge to bear down because I let out a very "pushy" sounding grunt which immediately signalled to our doula that we needed to head to the hospital ASAP. Our friend Jeff arrived shortly to deliver us to the hospital and I climbed into the backseat backwards with my knees on the seat, butt in the air and head and arms bent over the back of the seat. Poor Jeff was probably so freaked out by having to drive a woman in active labour to the hospital and I believe he asked the doula if I was going to give birth in the car. She reassured him it wouldn't happen but had the phone number for the hospital ready in her hand in case things moved so fast I might need to push him out upon arrival. I remember in between contractions hearing giggles from within the car and wondered what on earth could be so funny at a time like this. Apparently while stopped at a red light passengers from the car next to us saw me labouring and gave an excited thumbs up!</div>
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Once we arrived at the hospital we headed into admitting only to be quickly ushered through. The first nurse I saw asked me lots of questions that I'm surprised I could even answer. I was really starting to feel like it was taking so much effort and concentration to maintain conversation between contractions. They wanted to check my dilation which was the first thing to come up that Zane and I had wished to avoid. We wanted to avoid vaginal exams at all costs and so I looked to my doula for advice. She said that truthfully the way things were headed this would most likely be the one and only exam. So they checked my cervix and I was 7 centimeters dilated. We all felt very relieved to know that we were getting so close. We were quickly sent to our delivery room where we met our nurse Amber. </div>
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I remember at this point thinking "Ok. I'm here in the room, what sort of things could I do for my labour pains? Take a bath? Use a stability ball?" But again things were just happening so fast that all I could manage to do was lean onto the bed and push through the contractions. I moved into the bathroom and laboured for a while backwards on the toilet. Amber came in and politely asked if I would like to take the placenta home. I realized that we had never had time to write up our birth plan and so the nurses didn't know what our intentions were for anything concerning labour and birth. I felt so out of it but managed to say that no I didn't need to take it home. I could hear my doula express how impressed she was that we were even asked that at all, which was our first hint that Amber was going to be a spectacular nurse. </div>
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Within about 40 minutes of labouring in the hospital I was ready to push and there was a flurry of activity in the room as my doctor and the nurses prepared for the baby to come. I began pushing while leaning over the upright back of the hospital bed and was told that my pushes sounded great. So I pushed. And pushed. And pushed. My contractions were surprisingly still rather far apart during this time, between 2 and 3 minutes I think, and it was quickly becoming evident to everyone that despite how quickly I had progressed in early and active labour, something was slowing me down. </div>
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I was becoming so exhausted and very defeated. I kept thinking and saying "I can't do this. He has to come out." and my doula had husband both told me later they could practically see the words "C-Section" written on my lips. I was desperate. This was the only point that I ever thought of drugs or anything else that would help me get the baby out.</div>
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I remember around this point that I had moved to the end of the bed and was using the squatting bar to help push and my doctor and the nurses had been crouched down to watch any progress. My doctor said playfully "a watched pot doesn't boil" and that she was going to give me some privacy to push and left the room. I knew then that he wasn't coming out. Why would my doctor be willing to leave the room if my baby was anywhere near ready to come out? I felt more defeated than ever and was trying not to panic. </div>
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By this point I had been pushing for three full hours with no progress. It was clear the baby's head was stuck. I learned later that my doctor pulled my doula aside and told her she thought I should have some pitocin (which is a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin that brings on contractions) to move things along. She wanted my doulas advice on how to bring up the subject with me, knowing that I did not want any interventions. My doula told her to just be honest and to tell me how it would help. </div>
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When they came in and asked me about using pitocin I felt immediately defensive. It was so hard to let go of my ideas of how my birth would unfold and to surrender to having any of that kind of outside help. The nurse Amber could tell I was really conflicted about it and said that they would just wait longer until I had clearly made up my mind one way or another. So I continued pushing with no progress for perhaps another 20 minutes before giving in and asking for pitocin. I felt like the only other option was a c-section so why not try pitocin first. </div>
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As they prepared the IV I got into position on the end of bed again with the squatting bar. They hooked me up to the IV and Zane and my doula were on either side of me wiping my brow with cold cloths and giving me drinks of water and juice between every contraction. Zane said it felt like he was a boxing coach, helping me (his little boxer) in between rounds. Hearing that analogy afterwards made me smile as it also felt like that for me. I would open my eyes briefly between contractions and there was a straw in my face to drink from and I really did feel like an athlete performing some incredible feat of strength. </div>
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Seemingly out of nowhere during my next contraction things felt different. I expressed this and I think everyone in the room knew this meant the baby had finally moved. My contractions were suddenly coming much faster and my nurse Amber coached me through, helping me push longer, harder and closer together. I felt like I got a second wind of energy and knew there was no turning back. I powered through maybe 4 more contractions before he was out and then felt such a euphoric rush of relief. </div>
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Despite the pain and exhaustion I had just endured I was instantly overwhelmed with pure joy and love as soon as I heard his first cries. My baby was in my arms and that was all that mattered.</div>
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It turned out that I barely had any pitocin in my system at all and that nature had taken care of the rest. Despite the struggle of pushing for three hours, I got the birth experience I had always wanted, and the baby of my dreams.</div>
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I've been telling friends that giving birth was truly the craziest thing I've ever done. It was the most physically and emotionally challenging thing I've ever done, but it was also the most amazing and incredible thing I've ever accomplished. Thank you Lev for giving me that gift. I can't wait to see in what ways you change me and my life.</div>
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Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-20237713048215469592012-08-27T07:31:00.000-07:002012-08-27T07:32:02.720-07:00Simple Carrot Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is my entire carrot harvest of summer 2012.</div>
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Looks kind of sad when you think of it like that, but I prefer to appreciate the fact that I got one big bowl of sweet crunchy fresh carrots rather than none at all. The glass has been pretty well half full around these parts lately, thanks to this little beauty:</div>
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With him strapped to my chest or asleep on Daddy, I've finally been able to venture back into our overgrown forgotten garden and harvest some goodies, rip out some oldies, and plant some newbies.</div>
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The bebe has also been such a great reminder to slow down and stop and smell the roses. Life takes on such a different pace with him around and everything holds such a different meaning.</div>
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Which is why I just devoured and enjoyed this little carrot salad for what it was in the moment, and nothing more.</div>
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The recipe is from <a href="http://everybodylikessandwiches.com/2011/02/french-style-carrot-salad/">Everybody Likes Sandwiches</a>, check it out <a href="http://everybodylikessandwiches.com/2011/02/french-style-carrot-salad/">here</a>.</div>
Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-11588187461029939402012-08-09T06:02:00.001-07:002012-08-09T06:13:30.007-07:00Knitted Panda Bear Hand Puppet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5wTQTOuUI0/UCOx1uVpHGI/AAAAAAAABQQ/t4fNtRDCWYQ/s1600/DSC02619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5wTQTOuUI0/UCOx1uVpHGI/AAAAAAAABQQ/t4fNtRDCWYQ/s400/DSC02619.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well this might not be the most handsome Panda Bear on the block but he's still pretty darn cute. Kind of got a gnarly goofy thing going on. Hopefully my son will be charmed by him rather than freaked out. Fingers crossed!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vAEEMjE1BDQ/UCOyJJMaxlI/AAAAAAAABQY/GZ0qNarnEvc/s1600/DSC02621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vAEEMjE1BDQ/UCOyJJMaxlI/AAAAAAAABQY/GZ0qNarnEvc/s400/DSC02621.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/panda-and-zebra-hand-puppets">pattern</a> from Susan Anderson's book <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Itty-Bitty-Toys-Animals-Dolls-Playthings/dp/1579653766/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344516974&sr=8-1">"Itty Bitty Toys"</a> , a machine washable merino yarn, and then lined it with a bright turquoise cotton. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm already thinking he needs a little friend. Maybe a cat, a rabbit, or a pig? So many cute possibilities! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SxFx65yFfkk/UCOyWsbkhZI/AAAAAAAABQg/GX68FdbVY1I/s1600/DSC02620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SxFx65yFfkk/UCOyWsbkhZI/AAAAAAAABQg/GX68FdbVY1I/s400/DSC02620.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-44930718352087449882012-08-07T06:19:00.000-07:002012-08-07T06:19:12.135-07:00Striped Fingerless Gloves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1lyugSXwhBk/UCEPpzT_bmI/AAAAAAAABPY/6GluypSsIyw/s1600/DSC02607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1lyugSXwhBk/UCEPpzT_bmI/AAAAAAAABPY/6GluypSsIyw/s400/DSC02607.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Knpz8SoffIU/UCEQsluw0tI/AAAAAAAABPg/45J7IFU4Lg0/s1600/DSC02596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Knpz8SoffIU/UCEQsluw0tI/AAAAAAAABPg/45J7IFU4Lg0/s400/DSC02596.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think it's about time I knit myself something, don't ya think? I've been making so many <a href="http://makesomething-everyday.blogspot.ca/search/label/knitting">handknit goodies</a> for this baby o' mine and the closer I get to his arrival I realize I should really starting making myself a few sweet little things for fall, because clearly I'm not going to have much time to do this in the coming months. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EjFiw9WfHRU/UCERN3327kI/AAAAAAAABPo/l54ku_8DdJQ/s1600/DSC02603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EjFiw9WfHRU/UCERN3327kI/AAAAAAAABPo/l54ku_8DdJQ/s400/DSC02603.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been wanting to make fingerless gloves for quite some time now. I love the idea of a glove that is perfect for crisp fall days and I'm imagining that there'll be plenty of cool walks that will require free fingers to care for baby. My husband also made a good point that if my fingers do get cold I could probably slip then within the folds of a wrap as I wear baby around.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HXA-CxFuWnM/UCERql-uDUI/AAAAAAAABPw/vBo6eP9fFqQ/s1600/DSC02616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HXA-CxFuWnM/UCERql-uDUI/AAAAAAAABPw/vBo6eP9fFqQ/s400/DSC02616.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used a pattern from <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/long-striped-hand-warmers/">Purl Bee</a> (surprise! surprise!) and some merino that I originally bought for a baby blanket. I ended up altering the pattern and added some decreases to make it more of a fitted glove.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was iffy about the length but they are actually the <i>perfect</i> length to meet the short sleeves of my favourite denim jacket. </div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-60735832937589264002012-08-06T06:15:00.000-07:002012-08-07T09:44:53.719-07:00Peach Icebox Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's probably no surprise that I've been seeking out ways to keep cool lately. Despite still baking a fresh loaf of bread every other day, I'm really trying to keep the oven turned off during this heat.</div>
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I made a variation of this cake about a week ago that was so lackluster it's a wonder I tried again. I built it in a small but high sided dish (thinking it would be easier) and ending up using WAY too much whip cream. I used both peaches and plums and yet the cake was so bland and boring I couldn't quite believe it. </div>
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This cake on the other hand is far from boring, far from bland and really quite delightful. I made it for dessert last night and am kicking myself for not having leftovers to snack on right now. </div>
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Somehow despite all the cream this ends up tasting so light, and fresh while the coconut and almonds really round out the flavour. Pair that with a soft and pillowy texture, and in my books you've got a winner!</div>
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Inspired by this recipe on <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/summer-recipe-nobake-strawberr-117900">Apartment Therapy</a></div>
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3/4 cup of heavy cream </div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla</div>
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about 30 graham crackers</div>
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6 peaches, halved and thinly sliced </div>
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juice of half a lemon</div>
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tablespoon or two of sugar (plus more for cream)</div>
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1/4 cup toasted coconut</div>
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1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds</div>
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Toss peaches in lemon juice and sugar, cover and let sit for a few hours.</div>
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Whip cream with some sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. </div>
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Spread a thin layer of cream on whatever plate you plan to serve the cake on. Arrange crackers on top of cream and then spread another thin layer of cream on top of crackers. </div>
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Arrange a layer of peach slices on top of cream and sprinkle with toasted coconut. </div>
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Dollop some cream on top of peaches and spread as thinly as possible over fruit. Arrange more crackers on top of cream. </div>
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Continue in this pattern until you've run out of ingredients, or the cake is as high as you'd like. I think mine ended up having about 5 layers of fruit. </div>
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Once you reach the last layer of fruit, sprinkle with coconut and cover with toasted almonds. Cover with plastic wrap (using toothpicks to keep it off cake if necessary) and refrigerate for a few hours (mine sat for close to 6 hours before we ate it) then serve chilled. </div>
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<br /></div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-19612944305629337732012-08-05T03:59:00.000-07:002012-08-05T03:59:07.780-07:00Soft Letters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTKsBYnvzOE/UBv630AowRI/AAAAAAAABOI/WZbqIndNm8I/s1600/DSC02538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTKsBYnvzOE/UBv630AowRI/AAAAAAAABOI/WZbqIndNm8I/s400/DSC02538.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have a confession. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm starting to get nervous. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are only 4 weeks until I become a parent and my life changes forever. 4 WEEKS!?</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I feel like I've been waiting for this time in my life to come for years, yet now that I'm faced with it I CANNOT wrap my head around it. There was a while there around the 3rd-4th month of pregnancy, that I was rather freaked out and nervous about giving birth. Now I feel like labour and delivery aren't even on my radar of anxiety but the thought of caring for a child every second of the day has become my main source of butterflies.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know this will pass and I'll be filled with all the excitement that is deep down under the anxiety, but it's still a tough pill to swallow at the moment. Thankfully I do have 4 long weeks left to enjoy as simply a wife and not yet a mother, and I plan doing more things for me while I still can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDZ5aXQiYi0/UBv7pNjzHWI/AAAAAAAABOQ/D-oswkK_Bio/s1600/DSC02537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDZ5aXQiYi0/UBv7pNjzHWI/AAAAAAAABOQ/D-oswkK_Bio/s400/DSC02537.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But on the topic of more things for the babe...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was another project inspired by Lotta Jansdotter's book <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Lotta-Jansdotters-Simple-Sewing-Baby/dp/0811865487">"Simple Sewing for Baby"</a>. I've always been drawn to the idea of having a baby's name spelt out on a wall in their room and these fabric letters just felt more me, than say wooden letters. It was such a super simple and quick project that gives his room just a little more personality. </div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-28464678331785326832012-08-04T03:20:00.000-07:002012-08-04T03:20:55.643-07:00Nursery Wall Decor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRZokiF4-Ns/UBvSh7Df7nI/AAAAAAAABNY/9bMf8R7qsMg/s1600/DSC02559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRZokiF4-Ns/UBvSh7Df7nI/AAAAAAAABNY/9bMf8R7qsMg/s400/DSC02559.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
My baby's room is quickly coming together and it feels so great. With four weeks (or more!) to go until he arrives, I'm quite happy to have his room generally finished. Today I browsed Pinterest for more fun nursery craft ideas as the walls are still a wee bit emptier than I'd like. I found this great polka dot print idea on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/228839224785769009/">Apartment Therapy</a> and decided to bring this idea into my son's room.<br />
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I had these tiny little canvases stashed away in my craft room for whats felt like years (can't even remember why I bought them in the first place) that seemed like the perfect vehicle for the paper polka dots.<br />
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I've put these on the wall near our changing table and hopefully the playful pops of colour will captivate his attention while we get down to the dirty business of all those diaper changes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j6ZWjmNXQmU/UBvToXXnH3I/AAAAAAAABNo/pNdH8Xliy10/s1600/DSC02563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j6ZWjmNXQmU/UBvToXXnH3I/AAAAAAAABNo/pNdH8Xliy10/s400/DSC02563.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-55745569050925337612012-08-03T05:08:00.000-07:002012-09-23T13:42:48.637-07:00Zucchini Chocolate Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EIKgLtcjS0/UBp1mkAiukI/AAAAAAAABM4/tdC-12IcGZs/s1600/DSC02542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EIKgLtcjS0/UBp1mkAiukI/AAAAAAAABM4/tdC-12IcGZs/s400/DSC02542.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Zucchini season has hit my backyard and I couldn't be happier. I think in the last two weeks I've harvested 7 big beautiful zucchinis. Not a bad start eh? Most of them I have been diced and frozen but I've also made a batch of one of our guilty summer pleasures: <a href="http://www.mybestdaysever.com/zucchini-dill-fritters/">Zucchini Fritters with Whipped Feta</a> and how could I resist the allure of chocolate zucchini muffins? I was really looking for a recipe that was slightly healthier...but still quite chocolatey. It was truthfully hard to find but I think this was pretty much what I was looking for.<br />
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Adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/chocolate-zucchini-muffins/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=chocolate%20zucchini%20muffins&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Recipe">Allrecipes</a><br />
3 eggs<br />
1 cup white sugar<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup vegetable oil<br />
1/2 cup coconut oil<br />
1/3 cup cocoa<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
2 cups grated zucchini<br />
2 cups whole wheat flour<br />
1 cup white flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg<br />
1/2 cup chopped walnuts<br />
1/2 cup chocolate chips<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease muffin tin or line with papers.<br />
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Beat eggs in a large bowl with sugars and oils. Add cocoa, vanilla and zucchini, mix well. In another bowl mix flours, baking soda, baking powder, salt and spices then add to wet ingredients and mix well. Toss in walnuts and chocolate chips. Fill muffin cups about 2/3 full and top with a few more chopped walnuts. Bake for 20-25 minutes (mine took closer to 30 minutes). Let cool on wire rack.Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-21423388270421122902012-08-02T05:39:00.000-07:002012-08-09T06:03:18.513-07:00Knitted Teddy Bear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here it is! My son's first teddy bear! Isn't it the cutest thing ever?! I've always wanted to make knitted baby toys and am not really quite sure why it's taken me so long. I found a great book last year by Susan Anderson called <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Itty-Bitty-Toys-Animals-Dolls-Playthings/dp/1579653766">"Itty Bitty Toys"</a> that really sparked an interest in me. She has the cutest patterns for simple hand puppets that I'd really love to make. Also one of my sisters-in-law sent me a great book on knitted toys that is sure to keep me busy for quite a while.<br />
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I used a Debbie Bliss pattern for this bear (found on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/teddy-bear-3">Ravelry</a> but can also be found in her book <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Simply-Baby-Debbie-Bliss/dp/1844003167/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1343910663&sr=1-1">"Simply Baby"</a>) that I ended up really enjoying. The first part of the pattern was written quite strangely and I had to rip it out at least 4 times before I finally figured out what I was doing wrong. But other than that it knit up quite quickly and easily. There were many reviews on Ravelry stating that seaming it together was annoying or difficult but I really thought it was fine. I didn't want to overstuff it, but there are a few places (like it's head and snout) that could be fuller. </div>
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I can just imagine this little bear being dragged along on all my son's adventures.</div>
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<br /></div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-72307758744675112592012-08-01T17:23:00.000-07:002012-08-01T17:23:41.723-07:00Mushroom & Sausage Risotto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vYKzctrP-_A/UBm_hzZTd9I/AAAAAAAABLg/vsuTt3G_7cM/s1600/DSC02543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vYKzctrP-_A/UBm_hzZTd9I/AAAAAAAABLg/vsuTt3G_7cM/s400/DSC02543.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
When you're home alone do you have different behaviour than when your partner is around? The question makes me think of Carrie from SATC and her "Secret Single Behaviour" theory, demonstrated by her eating saltines with grape jelly while standing in her kitchen reading fashion magazines. I truthfully don't think I have any remaining "Secret Single Behaviour" left after 7 years with my husband. I actually think that I had lived alone for long enough before meeting and moving in with him that it wasn't that easy to hide anything that would could have been considered "secretive" anyway.<br />
But nowadays when the rare occasion comes along that I'm alone for days if my husband is away I have developed a new type of SSB: I eat food that I know he hates.<br />
Like tuna sandwiches! And mushrooms!<br />
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I bought myself four baby portabello mushrooms at the market this week anticipating a few lonely meals but really had no specific dish in mind for them. Thankfully a little quick browsing on one of my go-to recipe blogs provided me with the perfect use for them.<br />
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Adapted from <a href="http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/italian_sausage_and_mushroom_risotto/">Simply Recipes</a><br />
Serves 2<br />
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1 tablespoon olive oil<br />
1/2 pound of Italian sausage, cut into bite size pieces<br />
1/2 pound of mushrooms (I used 4 baby portabello mushrooms), stems removed, dark gills scraped out, caps diced<br />
1/2 teaspoon fresh oregano, minced<br />
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced<br />
3/4 cups dry vermouth, divided<br />
1/4 cup butter<br />
1 cup arborio rice<br />
1 small onion, minced<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced<br />
3 cups chicken stock*<br />
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated<br />
salt to taste<br />
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Heat oil over medium heat in a pan and cook sausages. Let the pieces brown a bit on both sides before adding the mushrooms and herbs. Cook for about 5-10 minutes until mushrooms are tender. Add 1/4 cup of dry vermouth to deglaze pan, then set aside. In another pan melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is just about transparent. Add rice, stir and let cook for about 2-5 minutes (but don't let it stick to pan). Add 1/2 cup dry vermouth and stir constantly as rice absorbs liquid. Add the chicken stock little by little (maybe 1/2 cup at a time), stirring rice constantly. Once rice has absorbed all the stock, add mushrooms, sausage and cheese and stir well to combine. Taste and add salt as needed.<br />
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*I didn't end up using all three cups, maybe more like 2 1/2. Taste the rice as you near the end of the stock and if the texture is satisfactory then you don't have to use all the stock.Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-11758788819898805172012-07-24T10:44:00.000-07:002012-07-24T10:44:04.573-07:00Baby Pullover Sweater<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another little project for my baby-to-be from my favourite knitting source <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2012/1/12/easy-baby-pullover.html">Purlbee.com</a>.</div>
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I somehow managed to make the body too narrow (which in turn makes the sleeves look too long) which must have happened by binding off too many stitches for the sleeves. I guess that's what happens when I roughly follow a pattern and am not paying attention the number of stitches called for. Oops! </div>
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I can roll the sleeves up, but I don't really love the look of them quite as much. I also wish my collar turned out as nice as the one on Purlbee. But I do love the slit detail on the hem and the fact that I was able to use up lots of this hand me down yarn. </div>
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<br /></div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-55995539240070265832012-07-16T06:43:00.001-07:002012-07-16T06:46:15.562-07:00Nursing Pillow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDZMTfvqvls/UAQTLLNrS5I/AAAAAAAABKM/yuTKJYNppj8/s1600/DSC02474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDZMTfvqvls/UAQTLLNrS5I/AAAAAAAABKM/yuTKJYNppj8/s400/DSC02474.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wanna know a secret? Sometimes I get lazy. Sometimes I give up and buy things I could make. Sometimes I just don't have the time or the drive to fulfill all my handmade dreams.<br />
It happens to the best of us, right?<br />
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I had always wanted to make my own nursing pillow after seeing a cute handmade one in Lotta Jansdotters book <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Lotta-Jansdotters-Simple-Sewing-Baby/dp/0811865487/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1342446342&sr=8-1">"Simple Sewing for Baby"</a>. But while registering for our baby shower I had a moment of weakness and thought "Geez, I can't do everything myself. Maybe I should cut myself a break and just have a store bought pillow."<br />
Thankfully I have a great partner in life who at just the right moments gently reminds me that I <i>can</i> do it myself. And sure maybe it'll be a while before I really find the time, but it will get done. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but someday.<br />
This little life lesson is also one that I think my son is helping teach me from the womb. "It can wait" he says, as he makes me put off tasks for another day in favour of rest and relaxation. And it's true, most things can wait. The floors can be dirty for another day or two, the laundry can sit piled on the dresser moments away from it's final destination inside the drawers. Heck, even the bread dough can rise another day and not mind one bit.<br />
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When the baby shower rolled around there was no nursing pillow to be found amongst the gifts and I was secretly relieved. I added "make a nursing pillow" back onto my to-do-someday list, and just relaxed knowing that eventually the time would be found to get it done.<br />
This morning the stars aligned (with the very cool morning breeze that blew into my sewing room) and I spent maybe 10-20 minutes making this simple but hopefully very useful pillow.Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-60665291347864093542012-07-14T11:58:00.001-07:002012-07-14T11:58:48.303-07:00July Garden Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kmi9tQs2ofM/UAG7TQHSHqI/AAAAAAAABIw/Fq1oDpaD8Xo/s1600/DSC02441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kmi9tQs2ofM/UAG7TQHSHqI/AAAAAAAABIw/Fq1oDpaD8Xo/s400/DSC02441.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Lately I'm all about the COLOUR in my garden! Seeing little bits of bright pink or orange peeking out from within the jungle of green just makes me so happy. This could also be because my garden isn't producing much in the way of edibles right now. Aside from herbs, some lettuce and edible flowers, I'm still mostly waiting for things to mature (or show up at all). </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sBShOkOJj3A/UAG7991_c1I/AAAAAAAABI4/4D0sRyKW9NY/s1600/DSC02454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sBShOkOJj3A/UAG7991_c1I/AAAAAAAABI4/4D0sRyKW9NY/s400/DSC02454.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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So let's dive right into the good stuff shall we? CHERRIES!! Aren't these spectacular?? Mostly because we had no idea we owned a cherry tree until it started to bloom early this spring, and then weeks later when fruit slowly started to appear. </div>
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Sadly there is some major disease affecting the tree and a lot of the fruit fell from the tree before it had a chance to ripen. Luckily for us there is still plenty of fruit that is just begging to be eaten.</div>
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My nasturtiums are having a roaring good time. My mother pointed out that picking off a lot of the leaves will help it bloom. Well after a few batches of nasturtium green pesto, my plants are full of blooms! Anyone have any great nasturtium flower recipes or favourite uses?</div>
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I love these apricot coloured nasturtiums that are hiding amongst my brussels sprouts and kale.</div>
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My cucumber plants are finally taking off too. My pea plants are providing some deliciously sweet peas and my tomatoes are finally starting to fruit.</div>
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And finally one lonely cosmo in a pretty little shade of pale pink. I sure hope more of these pop up soon.</div>
<br />Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-65019954188062492852012-07-13T04:19:00.000-07:002012-07-13T04:19:38.689-07:00Strawberry Almond Tart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-11mnagH5x1c/T_7WPnPTtdI/AAAAAAAABIY/9jh_aqmkAnw/s1600/DSC02431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-11mnagH5x1c/T_7WPnPTtdI/AAAAAAAABIY/9jh_aqmkAnw/s400/DSC02431.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I don't want to sound like a broken record or anything...but have I mentioned how uncomfortably hot I've been lately? 33 weeks preggo in 25+ degree weather isn't as lovely as it may sound. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think I've been doing a pretty good job at not complaining <i>too much</i> but there are points in the day when a frown creeps onto my face and I just can't comprehend the fact that I need to stay out of the sun. Add to that picture my undying desire to cook and bake new fun things for almost every meal and my utter disregard for the fact that baking will in fact make my house hotter. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thankfully I've stumbled upon this little gem of a summer tart. Not only is it super fast to make but the end result is so light and refreshing that it almost makes me forget I had to turn the oven on at all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sIidc6UoYj8/T_7bSTD3lYI/AAAAAAAABIk/eWA9oQ-3Zp4/s1600/DSC02402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sIidc6UoYj8/T_7bSTD3lYI/AAAAAAAABIk/eWA9oQ-3Zp4/s400/DSC02402.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/313028/almond-macaroon-galette-with-strawberrie?czone=food/produce-guide-cnt/spring-produce-recipes&center=276955&gallery=275333&slide=281238">Martha Stewart</a><br />
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3 egg whites<br />
2 teaspoons lemon zest<br />
1 cup confectioners sugar<br />
1 1/2 cups ground almonds<br />
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about a pint of strawberries<br />
2 teaspoons lemon juice<br />
1 tablespoon Kirsch<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tablespoon sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 tablespoons strawberry jam</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Preheat oven to 325 degrees and grease a 9" springform pan (or line bottom with parchment paper. I did this and it was a lot easier to get the base onto a cake stand).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In a stand mixer beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Add lemon zest, and then gradually add in confectioners sugar. Beat until whites are glossy about 6 or 7 minutes. Fold in almonds.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spoon batter into pan (I found it helped to tilt pan around to help batter reach all edges) and let stand for 10 minutes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Place cake in the oven but prop the door open about 1/2" with a wooden spoon. Bake for 10 minutes then reduce heat to 300, close oven door and continue to bake for 25 minutes or until pale golden.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let cool a bit in pan, take off the outer ring and once completely cool transfer tart base to a cake stand if desired.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Meanwhile halve about 8-10 strawberries and set aside. Slice the remaining berries and toss in a bowl with lemon juice, sugar and Kirsch. Let stand at least 30 minutes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once ready to serve gently heat up jam (I used the microwave for 30 seconds) and brush onto tart base. Arrange strawberry halves around exterior and then fill in the rest of the tart with sliced berries in any pattern you please. Drizzle remaining syrup from berries over top. Serve immediately.</div>Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-83261192139806171632012-07-12T06:48:00.000-07:002012-07-12T06:48:14.733-07:00Green Bean Hazelnut Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XELVySCiSo/T_6-p3C7rvI/AAAAAAAABIA/3Bm3iBpnA0c/s1600/DSC02416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XELVySCiSo/T_6-p3C7rvI/AAAAAAAABIA/3Bm3iBpnA0c/s400/DSC02416.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This summer has been just fantastic so far. Despite the fact that the high temperatures don't agree with my pregnant body, my feet are constantly swollen and I'm getting a wee bit crankier...I am actually having a really great summer.<br />
Yesterday was a perfect day filled with two trips to the lake, a great burger from my favourite <a href="http://www.aceburger.ca/">new burger joint</a>, a long nap, a delicious quickly-thrown-together summer meal, refreshing mocktails, and board games in the yard at dusk. What more could I want?<br />
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This salad comes from (you guessed it) <a href="http://www.101cookbooks.com/index.html">Heidi Swanson of 101 Cookbooks</a>. She comments on the surprisingly pleasant pairing of the tomatoes and the hazelnuts but I really think it's the green bean and hazelnut combo that wowed me. Either way, you must add this into your summer salad repertoire.<br />
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Adapted from <a href="http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/summer-green-bean-salad-recipe.html">101 Cookbooks</a><br />
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3/4 pound green beans, ends trimmed<br />
handful of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered<br />
handful of frisee or other green<br />
1/2 cup roasted chopped hazelnuts<br />
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dressing:<br />
1 tablespoon freshly minced chives<br />
1/4 teaspoon freshly minced thyme<br />
1 tablespoon minced shallot<br />
2 tablespoons lemon juice<br />
2 tablespoons heavy cream<br />
1/3 cup olive oil<br />
salt and pepper<br />
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Fill a large bowl with some ice cubes and cold water, set aside.<br />
Fill a medium saucepan half way with salted water and bring to a boil. Cook green beans for about 2 minutes or until bright in color but still maintaing a bit of crunch. Drain beans and toss into ice bath to stop cooking. Once cool drain again and set aside.<br />
To make dressing combine all ingredients in a shallow bowl or mason jar and mix well.<br />
Combine beans, half of the nuts, half of the tomatoes, the greens and dressing and toss well in a bowl. Place salad on a platter and top with remaining tomatoes and nuts. Serve immediately.Alexishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17705885973059730900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7576541950215653033.post-37054633456864789852012-07-07T07:58:00.000-07:002012-07-07T07:58:03.377-07:00Baby Rainbow Sweater<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-onWAh7U6RrM/T9E579HsepI/AAAAAAAABD8/9IrisNv6h2k/s1600/DSC02219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-onWAh7U6RrM/T9E579HsepI/AAAAAAAABD8/9IrisNv6h2k/s400/DSC02219.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's a cute little simple sweater I made a while back using some super colourful yarn. If I use <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/garter-baby">this pattern</a> again I will make a point to join in the round on the side underneath an arm instead of on the front where it's so visible. Because clearly I had trouble joining in the round so seamlessly. Oh well! It's still super cute. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OIU5pnewdGA/T_hNM26P15I/AAAAAAAABHs/u9koOh6geQs/s1600/DSC02221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OIU5pnewdGA/T_hNM26P15I/AAAAAAAABHs/u9koOh6geQs/s400/DSC02221.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fFZ8nBjBFU8/T_hNfE84m9I/AAAAAAAABH0/MJC9otvU_rM/s1600/DSC02222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fFZ8nBjBFU8/T_hNfE84m9I/AAAAAAAABH0/MJC9otvU_rM/s400/DSC02222.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love the cute little button up flap that makes the neck hole bigger and easier to fit over baby's head.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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