tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-112167842024-02-14T14:55:42.130-06:00The Little Backyard FarmMonikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.comBlogger228125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-78215907990168992342015-05-04T12:11:00.002-05:002015-05-04T12:11:28.719-05:00Ideas on How to decorate with Potted Plants<div style="text-align: center;">
It seems that freezing temperatures are a thing of the past in our area so it's time to plant those pots and decorate the deck! I would like to share my tips for interesting combinations of annuals that I use to decorate our back porch...</div>
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I love combining all kinds of plants for their shape and color, and I also like adding little knick knacks to the whole set up.</div>
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I add various grasses to the pots as well. Different sizes and colors of petunias add all kinds of fun to the pot! </div>
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Here you can see more knick knacks - a wind chime is a must on my porch ;-)</div>
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Moving along my porch... I have some small pots on the ground. I like to combine different pots as well to keep the flow interesting. There is also a handy watering can that the kids use to water our plants. You can see my hardy fern peaking into the picture. I have ha sit for years now, storing it inside over the winter.</div>
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A close up of my variety...</div>
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Marigolds are so easy to grow from seed! I have two pots of these every year on the same spot and I add some to my other pots for variety.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKofFqpnGym1eQ9E1txE6unjlFNYHZeWs6zAdsbl2UCw6leTc1gwpWQK3I5-urEWKCL-N_PdZ5D8mwN4W1y-gmPKcUTYvQTuAif2s9xqCMX5a1VBZpnNhZbp4h86z14bsvJVDM/s1600/potted+plants+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKofFqpnGym1eQ9E1txE6unjlFNYHZeWs6zAdsbl2UCw6leTc1gwpWQK3I5-urEWKCL-N_PdZ5D8mwN4W1y-gmPKcUTYvQTuAif2s9xqCMX5a1VBZpnNhZbp4h86z14bsvJVDM/s1600/potted+plants+3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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This petunia pot was my Mother's day present! You can see the marigolds peaking in the background. </div>
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Here is a little table decoration that I end up moving around for change of set up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtPAnMd5V13Raj-sCd6l95W_Z-HrG3L29pnss1OOnpRCb8GYKy5jU-BtKMKagtOJ3vmi4lpZhjfvX70VJCLRU-_xkw76-GaKrbfRZA1kcDrpdwlyjzkH9pT1-4UZk91AggreM/s1600/potted+plants+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtPAnMd5V13Raj-sCd6l95W_Z-HrG3L29pnss1OOnpRCb8GYKy5jU-BtKMKagtOJ3vmi4lpZhjfvX70VJCLRU-_xkw76-GaKrbfRZA1kcDrpdwlyjzkH9pT1-4UZk91AggreM/s1600/potted+plants+7.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> To summarize the tricks I like to use:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Crowd the pots with as many plants as you can fit</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Add variety of ornamental grasses</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Use different kinds of plants</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Use different colors</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Use different shapes and sizes</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Mix up the pots a bit</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Add some knick knacks to your display</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Hang up pots or place them on the table or the ground</li>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-87060037326701558542015-03-20T10:36:00.002-05:002015-03-20T10:36:44.587-05:00Melted Crayon Art Step-by-Step<div style="text-align: center;">
My kids love anything art related, which makes them completely my kids ;-) This was one of their most favorite piece of art to create and they still fight over who is going to keep it in the room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLnsc76QScxymhhuYURDlFJy78CkHBF72B6g7Sv4PQYo1h2kVUKZ3n_0SG9MnsA_mqsRpBWf0wuLH63J8xKE7MtgtAO9InGyVXRsn1t6CuGeLnGcfpJGR4S7L104WUSSkZ22X/s1600/Melted+crayon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLnsc76QScxymhhuYURDlFJy78CkHBF72B6g7Sv4PQYo1h2kVUKZ3n_0SG9MnsA_mqsRpBWf0wuLH63J8xKE7MtgtAO9InGyVXRsn1t6CuGeLnGcfpJGR4S7L104WUSSkZ22X/s1600/Melted+crayon.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
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Double-sided tape</div>
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Canvas</div>
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Newspaper (or anything to put under your project while you are working on it)</div>
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Crayons </div>
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Hair dryer</div>
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First place the double-sided tape on top of your canvas. Peel the top side off as well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYO_oMC-pFUCz8VdpkT6zC3YuYiYQBKPNE2-3P5jWkCMGu9ghZ9FDYl_wnAYm2zkAIHx3Imm0KlhtjwhhMslkYz9Jz_3cATlpkgfdWoZP4BJdtCdgHtkV6GAza65lwuWVrKm0m/s1600/IMG_2053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYO_oMC-pFUCz8VdpkT6zC3YuYiYQBKPNE2-3P5jWkCMGu9ghZ9FDYl_wnAYm2zkAIHx3Imm0KlhtjwhhMslkYz9Jz_3cATlpkgfdWoZP4BJdtCdgHtkV6GAza65lwuWVrKm0m/s1600/IMG_2053.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Peel all the crayons and break them into pieces. Then stick them to the tape.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOT8uifBupWdC-mNbg7Ep9AZQ5HEyStebELfgfJzc0H18EeJBIGWpLgUI7pqVXL-MI1qgy48CpekM0MlVrjx-6Fwdg_BNGCk5jcJycKwxTVULtZwuRgJZpSl37e3dHneZGqwZ/s1600/IMG_2054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOT8uifBupWdC-mNbg7Ep9AZQ5HEyStebELfgfJzc0H18EeJBIGWpLgUI7pqVXL-MI1qgy48CpekM0MlVrjx-6Fwdg_BNGCk5jcJycKwxTVULtZwuRgJZpSl37e3dHneZGqwZ/s1600/IMG_2054.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Use the hair dryer to melt your crayons.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhy9HtItsBWd_2iLf_gBG65ogC3ytSy1v8H484rX54Twx3ygv4tnKsWGfkVzvDWn2mqUb2063yY85PM1eWO3xA2YdNtmS2s3gjxB9Q1Tgipiso3G4SKXC7dHokliFQPM-tB4c/s1600/IMG_2055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhy9HtItsBWd_2iLf_gBG65ogC3ytSy1v8H484rX54Twx3ygv4tnKsWGfkVzvDWn2mqUb2063yY85PM1eWO3xA2YdNtmS2s3gjxB9Q1Tgipiso3G4SKXC7dHokliFQPM-tB4c/s1600/IMG_2055.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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We started while the canvas was laying flat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpE9VdefqVQ_oE6crtfcTbh1T3eNnfjU_UDMhlSQ0kV0Grr39MgpWobGy2FFUU_Tn7M7sUCKhuO3jdVzPvrhxDK53Lgm31WP9rHMpYSBLQdKkDWZuOYniSfDjG5i9FUcJ3B8T9/s1600/IMG_2056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpE9VdefqVQ_oE6crtfcTbh1T3eNnfjU_UDMhlSQ0kV0Grr39MgpWobGy2FFUU_Tn7M7sUCKhuO3jdVzPvrhxDK53Lgm31WP9rHMpYSBLQdKkDWZuOYniSfDjG5i9FUcJ3B8T9/s1600/IMG_2056.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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And then we stood the canvas up... Keep pointing the hair dryer at the crayons...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlTrxrcv6QrosOOTF9Lm1-WgA68X8iwb2qYHjWg_ALe_bwgj2xsDcqMDy-84E4sCO8Lh2CHQ9tbKJqBwzJ7OmDSGiTD0VPBqRqNa-koMSAXReyG_NChVJlZWlgQqcWeRZO8_J/s1600/IMG_2059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlTrxrcv6QrosOOTF9Lm1-WgA68X8iwb2qYHjWg_ALe_bwgj2xsDcqMDy-84E4sCO8Lh2CHQ9tbKJqBwzJ7OmDSGiTD0VPBqRqNa-koMSAXReyG_NChVJlZWlgQqcWeRZO8_J/s1600/IMG_2059.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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... till you are happy with your finished look.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bntbtti2W0ZAd-S44r0YFXJACKP6uJWlaej0dmMjTb25hVzu0zMMqvtBIrF2Uk5Y8UrzUnQBPwocxj85D6PV0x1kDSLzp1zfr4vU27utwPKgJ2gEg4pBY0HdaTfBl-6xXF18/s1600/IMG_2061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bntbtti2W0ZAd-S44r0YFXJACKP6uJWlaej0dmMjTb25hVzu0zMMqvtBIrF2Uk5Y8UrzUnQBPwocxj85D6PV0x1kDSLzp1zfr4vU27utwPKgJ2gEg4pBY0HdaTfBl-6xXF18/s1600/IMG_2061.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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One of our tops ended up white because we didn't melt the crayons flat at the end. We pushed it all down. If you would like to keep the color all over, make sure to slowly blow dry the crayons flat at the end to keep them. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFciQwD6OYSq_n3V_4bM5_yENGVakfHnp81UaquZzzzZDzYNf4cL0kwt8cxqv18zADa1zRMyZiz1LhyphenhyphenpjoKMc_dS7iSH69fMWrbWY_btTa1k3W5xsZE-zolLgx7flnT51Uw3M/s1600/IMG_2063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFciQwD6OYSq_n3V_4bM5_yENGVakfHnp81UaquZzzzZDzYNf4cL0kwt8cxqv18zADa1zRMyZiz1LhyphenhyphenpjoKMc_dS7iSH69fMWrbWY_btTa1k3W5xsZE-zolLgx7flnT51Uw3M/s1600/IMG_2063.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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You could also use new crayons and not take the paper off. What happens is, the crayons inside will melt but the paper stays empty, taped to the top and you have completely different look - also very cool.</div>
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Some affiliated links for you, to make your life easier...</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-31596771892006915012015-03-16T17:45:00.001-05:002015-03-16T17:45:42.883-05:00Delicious Coleslaw Recipe<div style="text-align: center;">
This is one of our favorite side dishes - great with sandwiches, potato pancakes, and any meat dish...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need:</span></div>
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1 bag of shredded cabbage</div>
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1 bag of broccoli and carrot slaw (I buy mine in Trader Joe's)</div>
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1 small onion chopped</div>
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Salt (to taste)</div>
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Pepper (to taste)</div>
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1/2 cup of Mayo</div>
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1/2 cup of Milk</div>
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3 tbsp of Vinegar<br />
1/3 cup of granulated sugar<br />
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First mix together cabbage and the broccoli slaw.</div>
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Add chopped onion to the mix.</div>
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In a separate glass or bowl mix the milk and vinegar. It will cause the milk to separate.</div>
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Pour it into the main mix and add the mayo, sugar, salt, and pepper.</div>
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Now begin to mix. It will be a bit tough at first but as soon as the ingredients begin to mix, it will become more soggy and it will start resembling the actual coleslaw. </div>
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... and you are finished, it should look something like my picture - easy, right? And pretty yummy!</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-57592101595245930242015-03-12T05:30:00.000-05:002015-03-12T15:49:32.838-05:00Wet Sock Treatment<div style="text-align: center;">
So my lovely and open minded readers... I would like to share with you something really useful today! If you or your kids feel stuffed, are coughing, or have a fever, this remedy will help release the symptoms and it will help you sleep better. You don't have to buy any icky over the counter medicines or decongestants... just trust me on this one. (However, I am not a doctor and all is based on my doctor's recommendation and my own and my friends' many years of experience with this method)<br />
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This hydrotherapy technique works for flu symptoms, earaches, soar throats, sinus infections, cold symptoms, upper respiratory infections and anything else related. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AvFfxuqWCV5dJYx9LxFzjLNtcnDJ02YWIKCy4X3Hpmvb9YHFkxQn_YsUxiFoG04IPssGTqjwO67o1PYCyB-x30Dhw0y6SVapd-eXxCuPcwOcBdXusPG9LtOwI36wLBCUzseD/s1600/wet+sock+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AvFfxuqWCV5dJYx9LxFzjLNtcnDJ02YWIKCy4X3Hpmvb9YHFkxQn_YsUxiFoG04IPssGTqjwO67o1PYCyB-x30Dhw0y6SVapd-eXxCuPcwOcBdXusPG9LtOwI36wLBCUzseD/s1600/wet+sock+.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need:</span></div>
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Pair of Cotton socks</div>
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Pair of Wool socks</div>
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Towel</div>
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Very warm water in sink/bucket (as warm/hot as you can handle)</div>
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Very cold water</div>
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<b>RIGHT BEFORE BEDTIME...</b></div>
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Make sure that you are comfortably warm, dressed in something you will be going to bed in. Prepare the COTTON socks by soaking them in very cold water. Then put your feet in warm water. The water should be as hot as you or your child can handle. Soak your feet for about 10 minutes. The trick is you don't want the water to cool down so don't stay there longer than 10 minutes. Then pull your feet out and right away dry them with towel. Squeeze all the water out of the cotton socks (very cold/freezing) and put them immediately on your nicely warmed up feet. Put dry wool socks over them and make your way to bed right away. Avoid getting chilled!<br />
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Keep the socks on overnight, you will find the wet socks dry in the morning.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So how does the wet sock treatment actually work?</span><br />
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Instead of medicine, your body is doing all the work in healing your symptoms. As your feet cool down, the veins constrict and send good nutrients into your body. And as your feet start slowly warming up, the veins expand and the bad stuff is disposed off by your body. The alternation of hot and cold stimulates your circulation and puts your immune system into a hyper active mode.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some extra tips:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Repeat this therapy for at least 3 days of your sickness</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">When my kids were babies, I used to give them a warm bath instead of the foot bath - it was recommended by my doctor at the time</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">I used cotton socks and footsies for my babies as wool socks wouldn't stay on over night</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">My little kids don't like the feeling of cold socks on their warm feet but over the time they learned that this really makes them feel better and helps them sleep so they now do it without complaining</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Make sure you go lay straight down as this works best when your body is in horizontal position and is warm</li>
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As an immune system boost during the time of sickness I always use echinacea tincture for the whole family.</div>
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</div>Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-69474336268265157582015-03-09T20:47:00.001-05:002015-03-10T10:09:16.471-05:00Spring at the Farm<div style="text-align: center;">
This past weekend we went up to Wisconsin to visit uncle's farm. It was nice to finally spend some time outside without having to be too bundled up in layers of various clothing. The temperature was rising and the snow was melting in front of our eyes. Kids were coming home muddy with huge smiles on their faces... and everything was the way it was suppose to be.</div>
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I thought I would share with you some Spring animal moments from our farm visit. </div>
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Few weeks old lambs are getting into some trouble in the turkey tractor...</div>
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Mama goat is trying to see if she can get some treat out of me :-)</div>
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Her baby is soon to follow... coming closer but still keeping his distance...</div>
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All the kids behaving well because daddy is nearby watching (his head is behind the pole)...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBN8yeo9bX5UIBmFumIlXCAT1KOhQVDu5OcUV7I51-b7c_aTRcWc-wSXLu-Ni8xxjPDaqxZl-_Z9y6YTVZcrIQdmxWMSqHWXjXPhSl-K1XOHnLtaMmdkqvAu1OUwQ9DMNvZ9-a/s1600/spring+goats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBN8yeo9bX5UIBmFumIlXCAT1KOhQVDu5OcUV7I51-b7c_aTRcWc-wSXLu-Ni8xxjPDaqxZl-_Z9y6YTVZcrIQdmxWMSqHWXjXPhSl-K1XOHnLtaMmdkqvAu1OUwQ9DMNvZ9-a/s1600/spring+goats.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mommy with her little lamb... only one week old... </div>
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So far we are still dreaming the dream around here and waiting what God has in store for us...</div>
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Happy soon-to-be Spring everyone and I hope these images brought you some joy and smiles on your faces!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Monika</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
Linking up with <a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2015/03/clever-chicks-blog-hop-129-with-happy.html">The Chicken Chick</a>!<br />
<span id="goog_98642597"></span><span id="goog_98642598"></span><br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-29931403349877693842015-03-06T13:44:00.001-06:002015-03-12T15:48:06.045-05:00Yarn Treasures - Gift Ideas<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3mrtTFz8Wb65Y3qZnXZzSdBuEFMXsGYIDia81lFn1iDJfO2dWjKUDfvTcJ4ebROQChbMYH4MOwFx4k6rBUvXWQKU9Se2ZO-YYuSR_MuSGdBFwh0Q3bUVsDiSIxpPLormfKRN2/s1600/Yarn+treasures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3mrtTFz8Wb65Y3qZnXZzSdBuEFMXsGYIDia81lFn1iDJfO2dWjKUDfvTcJ4ebROQChbMYH4MOwFx4k6rBUvXWQKU9Se2ZO-YYuSR_MuSGdBFwh0Q3bUVsDiSIxpPLormfKRN2/s1600/Yarn+treasures.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Knitting and crocheting are right now my favorite hobbies... In the next few weeks I would like to show you some projects I recently finished and give you a quick pattern overview together with the yarn I am using. First up is...</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Soft Hat</i></span></div>
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This hat can be very easy and quick to make if you have a chunky yarn and large size needles. I am talking... one evening kind of fast. Here is one I recently made as a present...</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need</span></div>
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<b><i>Yarn:</i></b> Isaac Mizrahi Craft Sutton (for Michaels)</div>
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<b><i>Needles:</i></b> US17 size single point bamboo knitting needles</div>
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<b><i>Size:</i></b> Adult woman!!!</div>
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For adult size I casted <b>32 stitches</b></div>
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Knit K2, P2 for the trim until the piece measures about 2 inches.... (you can make it thicker if you would like to)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqr09wWuIuQL1YGcOYGct6dQkhIP5Rmd86slYe-LLLjnwPxHO4TY0FddTYBHxsLj5pWtw7Yei6_3qfJsweGhDfkXiJS8nfJ86f6q5AaDnDUlSQZFoORWw15G1dihjbGD2PLZ4/s1600/hat+knit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqr09wWuIuQL1YGcOYGct6dQkhIP5Rmd86slYe-LLLjnwPxHO4TY0FddTYBHxsLj5pWtw7Yei6_3qfJsweGhDfkXiJS8nfJ86f6q5AaDnDUlSQZFoORWw15G1dihjbGD2PLZ4/s1600/hat+knit.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Continue knitting the rest of the hat in Knit stitch. To decrease please follow this pattern. (However if you are used to your own decrease pattern feel free to use that. I usually knit the decrease pattern however feels right for the particular hat, so I tried to put it in words for you here. I hope it makes sense.) </div>
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When the piece measured about 4.5 inches I started decreasing this way: </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 1: k4, k2tog, k4, k2tog - repeat till the end of the row.</span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 2: k all</span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 3: k3, k2tog, k3, k2tog repeat till the end of the row</span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 4: k</span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 5: k2, k2tog, k2, </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: start;">k2tog repeat till the end of the row</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 6: k</span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 7: k1, k2tog, k1, </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: start;">k2tog repeat till the end of the row</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 8: k</span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;" /><span style="text-align: start;">Rnd 9: k2tog</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="text-align: start;">You will be left with some stitches that you will tie together.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="text-align: start;">Then leave several inches of yarn and cut... loop it through the remaining stitches and pull... Then connect the sides using the loose yarn and yarn needle, sewing from top to the bottom of the hat to create seam. The seam is in the back of the hat. The finished piece measures 8 inches. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="text-align: start;">Here is an example of kids size hat I made using the same pattern, smaller </span></span>measurements, the same size knitting needles... and Isaac Mizrahi Craft Lexington yarn - I love the colors!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYH48jiUKWFvh9F9shU1vY37DzNqHsAe_jgsPqdQGxStJqhAgTPdvK4nKcT410LUvARNltvVyBIn4cH0JVLBXJTTxD6VWmBJv4jv2H6C6NDBTOUqYTeKVYorwBOdWNyFqCexpw/s1600/hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYH48jiUKWFvh9F9shU1vY37DzNqHsAe_jgsPqdQGxStJqhAgTPdvK4nKcT410LUvARNltvVyBIn4cH0JVLBXJTTxD6VWmBJv4jv2H6C6NDBTOUqYTeKVYorwBOdWNyFqCexpw/s1600/hat.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
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I love using the bamboo knitting needles, such as these:</div>
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</div>Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-80921512831364955012015-03-04T09:51:00.002-06:002015-03-12T15:50:39.365-05:00Egg Salad Recipe<div style="text-align: center;">
The good old egg salad! The quick go to recipe if I want something to put on my sandwich and don't have much time... this is the way my mom used to make it back in Czech Republic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-lrRoZr4d0FR23bMxKsDAKRGFQc3xM4xKAAQ6HU4Ec-hS0y0oKnY4RN31zgubbjrL_XhA22l9UXFzSMQnjDhpx708Y95eGuNB0jCC7V03UJeLwhEIU0Weq49MMe5BrOVGX7K/s1600/egg+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-lrRoZr4d0FR23bMxKsDAKRGFQc3xM4xKAAQ6HU4Ec-hS0y0oKnY4RN31zgubbjrL_XhA22l9UXFzSMQnjDhpx708Y95eGuNB0jCC7V03UJeLwhEIU0Weq49MMe5BrOVGX7K/s1600/egg+salad.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need:</span></div>
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4 Hard Boiled Eggs sliced</div>
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2 tablespoons Mayo</div>
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4 tablespoons softened butter</div>
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1/2 small onion thinly chopped</div>
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salt to taste</div>
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pepper to taste</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8chCnWQBiB34caAxUBNbWLFywEBu8_wfCrE0wEZ5HkODbt6vLAgFaCTK9p6kbvfgIjzqy0ByacdX4ju7U8TJi2Bs48UVaRYdSZA9KsLVyQM255oxaURvZ5_yvB89plhGe95b/s1600/egg+salad+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8chCnWQBiB34caAxUBNbWLFywEBu8_wfCrE0wEZ5HkODbt6vLAgFaCTK9p6kbvfgIjzqy0ByacdX4ju7U8TJi2Bs48UVaRYdSZA9KsLVyQM255oxaURvZ5_yvB89plhGe95b/s1600/egg+salad+detail.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mix all the ingredients together using a fork... And you are all finished.
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Enjoy the salad on your favorite sandwich!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF54qBIKMrSyLO4mNiQuWvzSRS2uPBpiu6PHK1F6Pv6ee_vqj5vFAl1AzYSoZ4utkvh2fzwojKHYpoEY5cpyd2nwqhaXCoaaeqMgJjuchO1prw-meamBAslcVDGHSXfHLWxwMv/s1600/egg+salad+last+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF54qBIKMrSyLO4mNiQuWvzSRS2uPBpiu6PHK1F6Pv6ee_vqj5vFAl1AzYSoZ4utkvh2fzwojKHYpoEY5cpyd2nwqhaXCoaaeqMgJjuchO1prw-meamBAslcVDGHSXfHLWxwMv/s1600/egg+salad+last+picture.jpg" height="498" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love using this potato slicer to cut the eggs into cubes:</div>
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<br /></div>Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-47723810334006408712015-03-01T11:41:00.000-06:002015-03-02T12:09:49.701-06:00The Importance of Reading Aloud<div style="text-align: center;">
The single best activity that I have ever done with my kids was reading to them aloud since the very first days of their lives. I am talking about the time when they were still residing in my belly... I would sit most nights and read the same book over and over to my son. I heard somewhere that although they can't understand the words you are reading, they sure recognize the rhythm of your voice. When my son was born, I sat every night in the same rocking chair and read to him Brown Bear Brown Bear book by Eric Carle over and over. Sure enough, it was his very favorite book for years.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCREdUz-jwx3GLGoD0kzDDGQIhNlxRSkdqtnJvcQFQTvU7qYBcXzDlMeeb2kpMOqUQM8CFZRSGuXTiMC8sGvCq5Sknv8-aEO4rrHSgcG7ToMwLctMKO55GYjepX7LlnkO94hcD/s1600/read+aloud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCREdUz-jwx3GLGoD0kzDDGQIhNlxRSkdqtnJvcQFQTvU7qYBcXzDlMeeb2kpMOqUQM8CFZRSGuXTiMC8sGvCq5Sknv8-aEO4rrHSgcG7ToMwLctMKO55GYjepX7LlnkO94hcD/s1600/read+aloud.jpg" height="588" width="640" /></a></div>
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Night reading became a habit in our home and we treasure it till today. Even though they can read to themselves, they both race every evening to pick a book that I will read to them aloud before the lights go out. We started with picture books but we recently moved to chapter books. Kids are older now and they can sit through longer reading sessions with no problem.</div>
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Here are some good points that could help motivate you to spend more time reading to your kids:</div>
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<li>Reading aloud leads to language development in children</li>
<li>Reading aloud helps you bond with your child</li>
<li>Reading aloud helps kids build positive relationships with books</li>
<li>... which comes hand in hand with developing love for reading</li>
<li>If kids love reading, they will have easier time at school learning</li>
<li>Reading aloud also helps kids practice listening</li>
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The above points are oh so true!!! I can't stress it enough how much kids benefit from reading... How much knowledge and vocabulary they build by reading books. Reading goes hand in hand with learning. If kids don't have connection with books, they don't have easy time learning. And it all starts with us parents...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBCD8JeHSKnEREUS2yM0HcFhP7PddiqvRJUp7w8OCmpoJQdrb3_Pgu2aEaZfHUPy0g9r2r1ggCXJfHMW6Q88PYyq_DWu66gtIBL85C_Guy3CSLG1AKOcHya1M4xrFqqeKUZyC/s1600/book+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBCD8JeHSKnEREUS2yM0HcFhP7PddiqvRJUp7w8OCmpoJQdrb3_Pgu2aEaZfHUPy0g9r2r1ggCXJfHMW6Q88PYyq_DWu66gtIBL85C_Guy3CSLG1AKOcHya1M4xrFqqeKUZyC/s1600/book+box.jpg" height="416" width="640" /></a></div>
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As kids grow older, some parents don't see how reading aloud could be beneficial, since they can read their own books... The truth is that there are so many benefits in reading to your children at any age.</div>
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Here are some great benefits of reading aloud to your older children:<br />
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<li>It helps parents and children bond over the topic they are reading about</li>
<li>It gives parents and children something to talk about</li>
<li>It helps parents to be role models to their older kids</li>
<li>It gives them opportunity to spend quality time together</li>
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About a year ago, we started reading aloud sessions in the morning by the breakfast table. We start with Bible story, memory verse, and prayer, followed by a chapter book. (Please see the book wheel under this article for the book recommendations based on our experience) I understand that this is not available to everyone and that unhurried morning is one of the perks of homeschooling... but try to choose any time of the day and devote yourself to your kids and a book. You will build treasured moments that will help you bond with your kids ... after all there is never too much time that you can spend with your babies, right? ;-)</div>
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I had people ask me why would I be reading to the kids when they were only few days old... they can't even understand the words and the point of the story... To me it was a bonding activity and a habit that I was creating not only for them but also for myself. Fast forward 8 years later and you will find my kids in the evening snuggled in bed with me or their dad, listening to the book we are reading to them. They love those moments and I know that one day, they will pass it on to their kids.<br />
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Have a great time reading, my dear friends!<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Monika</span></i><br />
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Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-69416371848597688772015-02-11T16:24:00.001-06:002015-02-11T18:23:13.630-06:00Growing Sprouts in Your Home<div style="text-align: center;">
If you are living in a place with 4 seasons like me, you are probably bored by now... especially if you are a farmer or gardener at heart! If the snow is in your way, try to garden inside! Kids and I had a fun time growing some microgreens/sprouts. And here is how to do it very cheap - actually almost for free...</div>
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package of sprouts seeds (preferably organic non-GMO)</div>
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Used salad box</div>
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Soil</div>
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Water</div>
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Some salad boxes already have holes on the bottom, but if they don't, just use a sharp stick, such as skewer or a tooth pick and heat it up above a flame... then melt the holes into the plastic box to create drainage. </div>
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Fill it up 3/4 with organically fertilized soil (I used soil from the garden mixed with soil from my worm box - great stuff ;-) - You can use any soil you have at hand but adding some natural fertilizer is a bonus for your plants. </div>
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Now it's ready for the seeds.</div>
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Spread the seeds evenly in rather bigger amount. Sprouts thrive in a big crowd ;-)</div>
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... and cover them with little bit of soil.</div>
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Next spray water... don't be shy, they like really moist soil.</div>
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You should see this in about 5 days! Kids love this indoor gardening project.. it's short, they get to dig in a dirt for a bit, and the result comes pretty quick. I like to seed new ones every 5-7 days for continuous harvest - so I have 2 boxes going at the same time... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7W7FtOQqhcwEjYKde0QPA39cxaF7EocdFH-9FvdTtCNTrVzFphLuVt40XzbqLPw_ZJK6hLymVEWWlrfbLHJUHDSrdHMVBq4c6EFJqA0N2qTrG7G6CmPE-fxTC8P3NxFP7bHU_/s1600/CAM00003-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7W7FtOQqhcwEjYKde0QPA39cxaF7EocdFH-9FvdTtCNTrVzFphLuVt40XzbqLPw_ZJK6hLymVEWWlrfbLHJUHDSrdHMVBq4c6EFJqA0N2qTrG7G6CmPE-fxTC8P3NxFP7bHU_/s1600/CAM00003-2.jpg" height="414" width="640" /></a></div>
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...and look how yummy it looks in your chicken sandwich! ;-) Now think about it - you grew it yourself in your home... isn't it the best? When you know where your food comes from... when you know how your food was taken care of? ... no middle man here... ;-)</div>
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<b>Some helpful links for you</b> - you can make your own worm box... look at my post </div>
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here <a href="http://www.thelittlebackyardfarm.com/2013/02/introducing-red-wigglers.html">Red Wigglers</a></div>
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And you could make your yummy homemade bread by clicking here <a href="http://www.thelittlebackyardfarm.com/2013/12/homemade-oven-baked-bread.html">Homemade Bread</a></div>
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Enjoy growing your food with love and have a wonderful rest of the week!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Monika</i></span></div>
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Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-76866988905039275032015-02-04T04:30:00.000-06:002015-02-04T13:59:35.905-06:00Snowstorm at The Little Backyard Farm<div style="text-align: center;">
Couple of days ago, it was snowing all day here at The Little Backyard Farm. I must admit that I like when it snows and I can look outside and see the scenery changing. -- Of course if I had to drive somewhere, that would be a different story. --</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyGnJk5DrCmBY-2C1LR1Jr8YxxljfIRHFVBF9Rqa4jXoIPRkIkvBERiwPnqv_0k6bTi8t_QZx6vCSaJAU0-_ppPjuIDDji90znQ1UlsYXrjI9vmIleg66AdrnEzyVOfqhLctV/s1600/snow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyGnJk5DrCmBY-2C1LR1Jr8YxxljfIRHFVBF9Rqa4jXoIPRkIkvBERiwPnqv_0k6bTi8t_QZx6vCSaJAU0-_ppPjuIDDji90znQ1UlsYXrjI9vmIleg66AdrnEzyVOfqhLctV/s1600/snow1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I thought I would show you some shots from this magical day... during and after the snowstorm... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcu44bb-xn7BFj8qy8agAfXfSOPjKGzgJrGCjna_RLbHGI3F9fFdLVbjmtFg6OFJiJzA1rsAHsy29Gh1JSuzWHbTNYgaKiaOp7D3jzGnbxtiIE7Uw0bfdGLxbZHpFt8knDVPA/s1600/snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcu44bb-xn7BFj8qy8agAfXfSOPjKGzgJrGCjna_RLbHGI3F9fFdLVbjmtFg6OFJiJzA1rsAHsy29Gh1JSuzWHbTNYgaKiaOp7D3jzGnbxtiIE7Uw0bfdGLxbZHpFt8knDVPA/s1600/snow.jpg" height="318" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">...Winter is for farmers what summer is for teachers...</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnLVroTJulhPaP7Ck0T6WQZ7DlYZrz7Ui5xR4DSBpkDRuBP-fwa2byz0WH7Uw25X1PthRH8G_RhFET0H8iF8CboNgTtUOgN35b_3z12JeYuOcEsNjOOQvArISyy_i8v94xlT4/s1600/snow3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnLVroTJulhPaP7Ck0T6WQZ7DlYZrz7Ui5xR4DSBpkDRuBP-fwa2byz0WH7Uw25X1PthRH8G_RhFET0H8iF8CboNgTtUOgN35b_3z12JeYuOcEsNjOOQvArISyy_i8v94xlT4/s1600/snow3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>--- When the winter winds are cold,</i></div>
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<i>and the sheep are in their fold...</i></div>
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<i>for my cozy home and heart...</i></div>
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<i>thank you Father God above ---</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHsIdqBhe3VWNlr_JCxklNCRjEfsxTbe4pm3hCnOB_1gA5xcpwf-o_tc9EFhbbr302fBIU_fPAPyxtVZGnhBgS7jR8ShNLgo7BnaMjAYxXx_KYZDLzir3wHDDZYbyZlCaeJg8/s1600/snow2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHsIdqBhe3VWNlr_JCxklNCRjEfsxTbe4pm3hCnOB_1gA5xcpwf-o_tc9EFhbbr302fBIU_fPAPyxtVZGnhBgS7jR8ShNLgo7BnaMjAYxXx_KYZDLzir3wHDDZYbyZlCaeJg8/s1600/snow2.jpg" height="318" width="640" /></a></div>
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Even during the winter months... the stillness in my garden gives me a certain peace... it warms my heart and heals my soul...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UzFx5HNCvarBFqPyzYTukvMUwcNL6qEQKYygC2oVvplcs9ILqO83EbdxHHBim5f_kPU3BcBFjvwNfA87usr9plWq7NGlSNOcyHcIcbJJNtqnLOe_FXymdOOKEVHimgKVKh3y/s1600/snow4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UzFx5HNCvarBFqPyzYTukvMUwcNL6qEQKYygC2oVvplcs9ILqO83EbdxHHBim5f_kPU3BcBFjvwNfA87usr9plWq7NGlSNOcyHcIcbJJNtqnLOe_FXymdOOKEVHimgKVKh3y/s1600/snow4.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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-- Do you wanna build a snowman? --</div>
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And that's all dear friends... I will go ahead and make myself a cup of hot coffee... and you don't forget:"Some people are worth melting for!" Warm hugs to you all and have a great rest of the week!</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-72600316902842048892015-01-31T22:45:00.001-06:002015-01-31T22:45:40.171-06:00Mulled Wine Recipe<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBeeY7Ffw9IOanqIpazDkaYlp_meIjx65hFqURv-WCAOUcEfQ_UKAuvBOgJzA9hCtERlxScFDPZPXDk5jbfZXzHN3t4ynbgF2LqyK7cgIyoL_ENfmeudfBe-MQuXRRsFex5f8/s1600/mulled+wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBeeY7Ffw9IOanqIpazDkaYlp_meIjx65hFqURv-WCAOUcEfQ_UKAuvBOgJzA9hCtERlxScFDPZPXDk5jbfZXzHN3t4ynbgF2LqyK7cgIyoL_ENfmeudfBe-MQuXRRsFex5f8/s1600/mulled+wine.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I have a recipe for you that will keep you warm during these cold winter evenings... I remember my parents used to drink it during winter town markets back in Czech Republic... and I also remember my Czech friends here in the US making it during winter parties. </div>
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Mulled Wine has been around for a very long time. There are many ways to prepare it - and here is mine :-)</div>
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I use my favorite red wine made with organic grapes... in California.</div>
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Put <b>1 cinnamon stick</b> and <b>3 whole cloves</b> into the pot with <b>1 cup of red wine</b>.</div>
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Bring the wine to a slight boil, until you see a yellow foam and then simmer for about 4 minutes.</div>
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Pour it into a glass that can handle really hot liquid. I like to sweeten it with a <b>teaspoon of honey</b> but you can also use <b>2 teaspoons of sugar.</b></div>
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Decorate your glass with a slice of orange and you can also put one inside the glass.</div>
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Enjoy dear friends... and cheers!</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-20347910042517418182015-01-28T16:22:00.002-06:002015-01-28T16:22:41.189-06:00Make Time...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hello everyone! I hope that you are having a great month of January! Things have been very busy around our Little Backyard Farm and I am glad that we have been able to take few family walks with the kids, despite the cold temperatures.</div>
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We all might start having those winter blues and they are not pretty - kids are getting antsy and crabby and let's admit it - so do we. Try to get yourselves and the kids outside as much as possible!</div>
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And generally this is not only about the mood... it is also about family time. Times are busy and we get caught up in life, work, and technology. Make some time for the kids and bring your phone along only to snap pictures...</div>
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Make memories...</div>
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Notice the small things... that are really the big things...</div>
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Kids don't remember their best day of television...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpSl6M3Gm8m2l5FEkM0Z-Ua7aAA3Mm0-6-7g8TjTlHRzFLJwR7Q1zfE_2TfUyk-52s2AY8asbZwTBbb6BqmWD8L8qAuLoui5rhQFVBFA8Nyi-I10PSAFxGBQU4xayM4umACI9/s1600/IMG_9031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpSl6M3Gm8m2l5FEkM0Z-Ua7aAA3Mm0-6-7g8TjTlHRzFLJwR7Q1zfE_2TfUyk-52s2AY8asbZwTBbb6BqmWD8L8qAuLoui5rhQFVBFA8Nyi-I10PSAFxGBQU4xayM4umACI9/s1600/IMG_9031.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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... so go outside and do something you all will remember!</div>
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I hope you all have a great time making memories...</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">~</span> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Monika ~</span></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D11216784%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D2034791004251741818%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-WsjP0Biie9s%252FVL05JpWZ1sI%252FAAAAAAAANgw%252FqBDXTJF91Fk%252Fs1600%252FIMG_8955.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 81px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 108px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D11216784%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D2034791004251741818%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-WsjP0Biie9s%252FVL05JpWZ1sI%252FAAAAAAAANgw%252FqBDXTJF91Fk%252Fs1600%252FIMG_8955.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 81px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 108px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-77284538089460458162015-01-09T13:33:00.002-06:002015-01-09T13:33:40.772-06:00New Year's Blessings<div style="text-align: center;">
There is a switch in our minds that gets turned on by the sounds of fireworks on the New Year's Eve. Have you noticed that? I start thinking about all the things that I didn't get to do last year and I am starting to set all different kinds of resolutions for myself for the next year. I take out my notebook and start writing down plans and pointers to get me on the right track. But then as most of the previous years, life happens and I forget about the plans (I did however stick with couple resolutions in the past... just to keep it real) I fall into the same old routine and the same old habbits. Why should this year be different?</div>
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Most likely it will not be different and therefor I decided to focus on different part of it all. I decided to count my blessings. Every year we experience ups and downs and we tend to remember the major events that happen to us. But I decided that I don't want to forget even the smallest things... the cutest things my kids say to me... dates with my husband... accomplishments big or small... traveling memories...</div>
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To keep a track of it all, I made this blessing jar. I will write my blessings on pieces of paper and I will place them into the jar. At the end of the year... or when life gets tough, I will read them. Because God is good and I don't want to forget!</div>
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Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-13815666196875225022014-11-25T12:40:00.003-06:002014-11-25T12:40:30.127-06:00Thanksgiving Table Centerpiece<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been busy with my Etsy shop orders and neglected my blog for a while and I am sorry about that ;-) Since I love this little place of ideas sharing, food growing, and meals cooking, I am back and hopefully my new plan for this blog will bring everyone more inspiration than ever before.</div>
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We are all in our Thanksgiving week preparations just about now and if you need last minute decoration idea, you came to the right place! You can have kids help you with this one or you don't have to, but I had them work on most of it ;-) Put them to work for you, if you can - my advice anyway...</div>
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First cut out leaf patterns from construction paper. You can add some fabric, burlap, or felt leaves if you wish. Write on them things that everyone in your family is thankful for - some of my kids words make me laugh but they are truly thankful for those things (like my daughter's love for Hello Kitty was true). Punch a hole on one side to be able to hang them up.</div>
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Fill a vase or large jar (how lucky that I found this large Mason Jar on garage sale - my all time favorite) with rocks. Even candy corn, dry corn, or sand will work.</div>
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Bring sticks from the outside. Best are those with bunch of small branches coming out of them for fun display of leaves. Place them in the vase, pushing them down into the rocks for stability.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQxedl-SaTkIGAxyIFT1s7__96_c384PS7zo-aCRltlpl3K0b-qfEM_G0csSasrATawkbvRXJqOkU3Oo81ip1rSW9a9KgKQl4_QUgsB1RPVP2rwbqDYk2IJpt9371ykwiimGs/s1600/IMG_6181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQxedl-SaTkIGAxyIFT1s7__96_c384PS7zo-aCRltlpl3K0b-qfEM_G0csSasrATawkbvRXJqOkU3Oo81ip1rSW9a9KgKQl4_QUgsB1RPVP2rwbqDYk2IJpt9371ykwiimGs/s1600/IMG_6181.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Now tie a burlap fabric or a large ribbon around the mouth of the jar and hang up the leaves. I save the leaves from year to year and kids add new leaves with new things they are thankful for. They love looking back at what they loved and thanked for in the previous years. And so do I!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUckhKmP9ggK2iavtaqIZGM0LkVeAeyl1Wkh-Hv4PWFBuslKykwWfMWeJ_nBQnMCowWkFsCdKFs3iENEWSG7_CLf2CDGg4jX_a63fBSODnn4Vs8_smiU0O9D84dgEr0YpExwg/s1600/IMG_8114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUckhKmP9ggK2iavtaqIZGM0LkVeAeyl1Wkh-Hv4PWFBuslKykwWfMWeJ_nBQnMCowWkFsCdKFs3iENEWSG7_CLf2CDGg4jX_a63fBSODnn4Vs8_smiU0O9D84dgEr0YpExwg/s1600/IMG_8114.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-13119937000121669142014-10-06T13:42:00.001-05:002014-10-06T13:42:45.248-05:00Announcing my new Etsy Shop and Give Away<div style="text-align: center;">
I am beyond excited to finally open my new Etsy Shop!!! I have been thinking about this for so long but it was never a good time. In life we often plan but God thinks differently, right? So He finally decided it was time for me to make it happen... ;-) You can see the link in my side bar, so feel free to come and take a look if there is anything that you might like for yourself or someone you know! I also make things to order so don't hesitate to convo me and I will be happy to fulfill your wish.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwuivrzWUZvB_iG8KK1gDijWXgfof_U6TbBXT8cMGy1PrpzjHFkRoOd3iosmFSvKbGHe9CmoqCzGOqAOrJbvrfC6xsS5k2m4iXOzsD8tl9ASALlk6sogwCNf82swPJD3l3Z0d/s1600/backtobasics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwuivrzWUZvB_iG8KK1gDijWXgfof_U6TbBXT8cMGy1PrpzjHFkRoOd3iosmFSvKbGHe9CmoqCzGOqAOrJbvrfC6xsS5k2m4iXOzsD8tl9ASALlk6sogwCNf82swPJD3l3Z0d/s1600/backtobasics.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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As a part of the celebration, I am hosting a Give Away on my Instagram Account, so please come and participate. You never know, you might just be the random winner of these goodies! The Give Away is open till Tuesday night. Click <a href="http://instagram.com/p/tz9I_BKp7V/?modal=true">here</a> to get to the photo. Good Luck!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6ebJ8zrW6xKRxU9oxipG4_dgTM6tXvCcc0B_5NGihZzunkk3l2SRasVopG5NJHddsqrg91bF9y-wJ91DM4A-UDtiu38A-c-YHxMWYozaQUzq2P5exehASkdcrmpGLp6Q2ErQ/s1600/give+away.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6ebJ8zrW6xKRxU9oxipG4_dgTM6tXvCcc0B_5NGihZzunkk3l2SRasVopG5NJHddsqrg91bF9y-wJ91DM4A-UDtiu38A-c-YHxMWYozaQUzq2P5exehASkdcrmpGLp6Q2ErQ/s1600/give+away.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-27600850327831417142014-09-22T14:10:00.001-05:002014-09-22T14:10:28.218-05:00Homemade Gifts by Kids - Create your own ISPY Book<div style="text-align: center;">
Since the Holiday season is slowly approaching I thought this might help you guys out! For the next few weeks I will share with you some of my kids' homemade gifts. We love giving and receiving meaningful presents, especially when they are perfectly fitting the person on the other end. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4l9L7yIH7qsknsxJ7U24JbvsvrSBii74qh_IboTnf5OgHX5G0C2qQi3_eAQ1gfscU-pSHYDXzddKha4JZPS4AFx_Q9KdP7nOS02nceTYej4I2EiCcfzK-Eyhdb5cx2cM7rPN2/s1600/gift+ideas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4l9L7yIH7qsknsxJ7U24JbvsvrSBii74qh_IboTnf5OgHX5G0C2qQi3_eAQ1gfscU-pSHYDXzddKha4JZPS4AFx_Q9KdP7nOS02nceTYej4I2EiCcfzK-Eyhdb5cx2cM7rPN2/s1600/gift+ideas.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>The iSpy Book</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoS0Ctt0aVQdtvrofuVfJv4hseBUj-2A74mNLGAaxFAOhLE9aHNAKFeG9cxfp8RTaAG00p_AZqzlBQ4ZyNQrpbhq7DKQn_2BU_HBUxfbnmsKnu3zveFhY6hZ0aPLjfqv5t0nA0/s1600/IMG_8285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoS0Ctt0aVQdtvrofuVfJv4hseBUj-2A74mNLGAaxFAOhLE9aHNAKFeG9cxfp8RTaAG00p_AZqzlBQ4ZyNQrpbhq7DKQn_2BU_HBUxfbnmsKnu3zveFhY6hZ0aPLjfqv5t0nA0/s1600/IMG_8285.JPG" height="492" width="640" /></a><br />
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My kids made this for their cousins' birthdays. It happened to be their favorite kind of book at the time and my kids were very excited they came up with the best gift!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do you know</span> <span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">someone</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">who is a big</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I SPY</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Book fan? </span></div>
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In that case, keep reading...</div>
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First, have your kids pick a group of toys they would like to use and set up their first scene. You can either have the kids take a picture or take it yourself (usually depends on each individual kid... some four year olds could be very skillful with a camera ;-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLB5PbtDhHO_kwGtjRXZ5eJ9p3tMevbUhI7dhOsnTSIvc1bP3Y_D9OD4ngHyIJPlDJncGzO5XwxMTmWnGpCmWyMi8ZUHE-wpZkCdaMzWpqMokFzge1uYKCIkWXN3t7JKYObnR/s1600/IMG_3379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLB5PbtDhHO_kwGtjRXZ5eJ9p3tMevbUhI7dhOsnTSIvc1bP3Y_D9OD4ngHyIJPlDJncGzO5XwxMTmWnGpCmWyMi8ZUHE-wpZkCdaMzWpqMokFzge1uYKCIkWXN3t7JKYObnR/s1600/IMG_3379.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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We also secretly went to their house and set up a scene from their actual toys (luckily they were out of town and we were taking care of their house ;-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FzBZvqRJgEzBoVBYmgJ8ijyMuyhoUiTAJ5qrlpI6MLfv-ptOv0oJEd9PS32TJvc7J_SU4tN4YUVM3Tq86hUyybW_wuiVw3RmctGrsJwymm7fKN9N9pqUBEUuULHG7mwtOfHN/s1600/IMG_3443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FzBZvqRJgEzBoVBYmgJ8ijyMuyhoUiTAJ5qrlpI6MLfv-ptOv0oJEd9PS32TJvc7J_SU4tN4YUVM3Tq86hUyybW_wuiVw3RmctGrsJwymm7fKN9N9pqUBEUuULHG7mwtOfHN/s1600/IMG_3443.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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After we took all the pictures we wanted, we uploaded them to iPhoto and edited them. We cropped them and also fixed the exposure and color if it was needed.</div>
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I use <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/">Shutterfly</a> for all my photo books but if you have a site that is your favorite, you can use that one. Shutterfly has many coupons available most of the time and sometimes you even get the book for free - you just pay shipping. Using their templates we turned our idea into a fabulous book!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZRtDaUofemVshiTSrZDvUp6LDdLbLk-QIEypTWiWTdMFnOc3Lai110GTCOh0jAFr14ymxet21fQDSMAKXpEPu5RliINiuluBwse2ySp64_pLDxUkD8LjIT4UBPxSm1twDQvN/s1600/IMG_8282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZRtDaUofemVshiTSrZDvUp6LDdLbLk-QIEypTWiWTdMFnOc3Lai110GTCOh0jAFr14ymxet21fQDSMAKXpEPu5RliINiuluBwse2ySp64_pLDxUkD8LjIT4UBPxSm1twDQvN/s1600/IMG_8282.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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After you upload all your photos, you place them onto the pages, and decorate with different embellishments (if you wish of course). Then go back to the pictures and come up with the riddles, which you place on opposite page!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9JidlAEITrAwZsV9pkWYg2BN8P0xqF5kKx2F39Yf2MswEy95NejeugvLD2OPJeJbEJPjvWgJkeA8KkdRqckw5cliPvMo0vGeom0Ysju2A_bhG08Q2qfnM3FSrxyiCrnISH25/s1600/IMG_8277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9JidlAEITrAwZsV9pkWYg2BN8P0xqF5kKx2F39Yf2MswEy95NejeugvLD2OPJeJbEJPjvWgJkeA8KkdRqckw5cliPvMo0vGeom0Ysju2A_bhG08Q2qfnM3FSrxyiCrnISH25/s1600/IMG_8277.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was such a fun project that we all worked on together for couple weeks. We took our time, went back and forth to adjust different things, but at the end it was all worth it. My kids wanted to have their own copy as well so I had to order two.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjpU1PTztzXTrhupSOosEm_qqmGxNL1VlvqeUndTH-wsIHaNWPEo45H9g0an-u-vhHwSitIZWOQVHOCk9HDE_RFlRycMZGNkiEwjAa3oJBCyPZ4c4bdA5QYUHIi7x6xuPJf3e/s1600/IMG_8280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjpU1PTztzXTrhupSOosEm_qqmGxNL1VlvqeUndTH-wsIHaNWPEo45H9g0an-u-vhHwSitIZWOQVHOCk9HDE_RFlRycMZGNkiEwjAa3oJBCyPZ4c4bdA5QYUHIi7x6xuPJf3e/s1600/IMG_8280.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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We made sure to personalize the book with messages for the boys and personal pictures of all of them together!</div>
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Here is an idea for a title page photo ;-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXNHKs1I25YsxrfJwZ_Ca2B21V5pEr9zErrgmGRR5HQrbd7rVMz40fgY8y-5Lp4AQpaKqC5Wlx2kVfSnx5j32UcTa-8JdtkjjG1wt3OhI7hJT_OH8apdfE1O5H5GSV-bQ2xHV/s1600/ispy+tutorial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXNHKs1I25YsxrfJwZ_Ca2B21V5pEr9zErrgmGRR5HQrbd7rVMz40fgY8y-5Lp4AQpaKqC5Wlx2kVfSnx5j32UcTa-8JdtkjjG1wt3OhI7hJT_OH8apdfE1O5H5GSV-bQ2xHV/s1600/ispy+tutorial.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The boys loved the gift so much!</div>
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I hope this helped and have fun with this project!</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-5102198245486552612014-09-12T07:24:00.002-05:002014-09-12T07:24:21.488-05:00Kids and Chickens - Why is Chicken Keeping Beneficial for Our Kids<div style="text-align: center;">
Old McDonald had a Farm ... which little child wasn't in love with this song at some point in their life? We live at least part of this song daily here at our little backyard farm and I see <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>the impact</b></span> of caring for animals on my children. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUFCq5C0Ww3HpIHRtkpV9loCL35WQMHforYYHqvDQJTfqu5qNs-99tG6hS0TojtosaOwUWRJI3N7X-n4bAADSM8tNAds97BChEXZANfIwV7PphWNIpsTIeJhT7B17uHmN-I36/s1600/kids+and+chickens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUFCq5C0Ww3HpIHRtkpV9loCL35WQMHforYYHqvDQJTfqu5qNs-99tG6hS0TojtosaOwUWRJI3N7X-n4bAADSM8tNAds97BChEXZANfIwV7PphWNIpsTIeJhT7B17uHmN-I36/s1600/kids+and+chickens.jpg" height="640" width="546" /></a></div>
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We can go and see animals at the ZOO or a petting place but to experience the ownership that brings on <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">responsibilities</span> in the children is priceless. We have had chickens even before our kids were born, so they both came to live into the farm environment. Last year, we finally decided to get them each a pet chicken. Up until that time, all our chickens were sort of pets that had to go every few years because they would stop laying eggs. But I realized how important it was to them to have a feathered creature here to stay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4yOe97-PdKZ1ACTdEIDjUSTBZd5CKkwRgsFvRM2f5VzF5OBLkoEKUMuxo3Osq9yOXiHYmxrTb7e5wliW8ZVDDLwS9CBRKOdBimZ2y-POTXOhOzFtKwSdW0CZ4FJDlXnmwiGck/s1600/IMG_20140614_092555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4yOe97-PdKZ1ACTdEIDjUSTBZd5CKkwRgsFvRM2f5VzF5OBLkoEKUMuxo3Osq9yOXiHYmxrTb7e5wliW8ZVDDLwS9CBRKOdBimZ2y-POTXOhOzFtKwSdW0CZ4FJDlXnmwiGck/s1600/IMG_20140614_092555.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's how we came to Brownie and Whiny. This above is Brownie - they are both Bantams, miniature chickens. I like having <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">small chickens</span> for the kids, because they are easier for them to handle.</div>
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Many times I catch the kids hanging out with their birds. Here is T enjoying afternoon rest with Brownie. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_k5nWvOniU2OrLJlUcyril11_W3MhnzXVQClL0NDLIxM3NHDM-cfDIdXQ6WXu8dl3a4yPwYKcqLCibwndf5aRHKJE3F8aOU_rt038dQUE8lYKgrUN1WT7f3IBISKB6P58gaI/s1600/T+and+brownie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_k5nWvOniU2OrLJlUcyril11_W3MhnzXVQClL0NDLIxM3NHDM-cfDIdXQ6WXu8dl3a4yPwYKcqLCibwndf5aRHKJE3F8aOU_rt038dQUE8lYKgrUN1WT7f3IBISKB6P58gaI/s1600/T+and+brownie.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Having chickens keeps my kids connected to <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">the reality</span> of where food comes from. They also learn responsibility and <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">compassion</span> towards animals, something that God intended for us to have and to teach to our children. When we come to a slight bump and we have to deal with some emergency in the coop, kids are always involved and they help us solve the problem. Here is Whiny when she nearly died as a baby and we helped her back to life by feeding her sugar water using dropper. </div>
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They LOVE <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">collecting the eggs</span> from nesting boxes and <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">feeding</span> the girls!</div>
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During the winter months <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">we grow earthworms</span> for our chickens for healthy snack... what kid doesn't like to participate in something gross right? Our daughter used to be afraid of these wigglers and this exposure helped her feel comfortable and now she handles them without a problem!</div>
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Generally kids love animals and it is up to us parents to nurture that relationship. To close this post, let me list some <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">suitable chicken breeds</span> for you to consider:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Silkies</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Cochins</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Australorps</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Bantams</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Sussex</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Delaware</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Red star chickens</li>
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are all <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">friendly breeds</span> and are best to make special connection with your kids. Well, this is so exciting and I hope you will start your little chicken coop soon! </div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2500px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2500px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2500px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2500px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-56836817050291949732014-08-30T10:52:00.004-05:002014-08-30T10:52:55.596-05:00Dreamy Meatloaf Recipe<div style="text-align: center;">
I used to make meatloaf according to an internet recipe I found and it was good... But then I remembered how my mom used to make this meatloaf, filled with pickles and eggs and hot dogs and I really wanted to try make it myself (to spice up the menu ;-) - don't we all wish to do that). </div>
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Just a note - if you have been following my blog for a while, you know we raise our own chickens and turkeys and I am a big fan and supporter of people eating organic, free range, local meats - so I am using a ground beef that was lovingly raised on my husband's uncle's farm. We just love when we know where our food comes from ;-)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need</span></div>
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1 lb of ground beef</div>
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1/2 of bagel or 1 french roll</div>
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milk</div>
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1 egg</div>
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1 small onion</div>
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3 garlic cloves</div>
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2 tbsp majoram</div>
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2 tbsp ground caraway</div>
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2 tsp salt</div>
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1/2 tsp of black pepper</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For Filling</span></div>
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Hard boiled eggs</div>
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Hot dog</div>
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Pickles</div>
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give or take </div>
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the amount depends on what you like best - you can double up on the egg and leave out the hot dog etc...</div>
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First cut up the bagel or roll and dip it into the milk. Wait until it absorbs the milk and becomes soft and mushy. </div>
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Then work it with hands until it looks like this.</div>
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Set it aside and mix the rest of the ingredients ...</div>
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... in a Kitchen Aid like mixer - or just use you hands. Preheat oven to 350.</div>
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Take it out of the bowl, lay it out on your counter, and form it into a half an inch thick long oval.</div>
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Lay the eggs and cucumbers (or hot dogs) on top of the meat mixture...</div>
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... and wrap it all up. The mixture should be holding well together.</div>
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Pour oil and half of cup of water into a glass (or any) oven dish and place the meatloaf in it.</div>
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Bake for 45 minutes (Please check your meatloaf after 35 minutes - ovens might vary and that could make a huge difference) and during that time open the oven couple times to pour some of the oil mixture that is in the dish over the meatloaf to keep it from drying out. Don't take it out of the oven but just turn on the broil option and keep it in for 5 minutes. Observe carefully so you don't burn it. This gives it a crunchy seal (if you prefer not softer meatloaf, skip this step)</div>
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You are ready to let it cool down for easier cutting! I hope you enjoy this fun spin on your meat loaf!</div>
<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-73930171375467315112014-08-23T20:13:00.000-05:002014-08-23T20:13:31.716-05:00DIY Sparkly Sequins Shoes<div style="text-align: center;">
Not that these Converse sparkly shoes weren't fancy enough already ;-) But my daughter saw a picture of this project in one of her library books a while ago and insisted we do it as a part of our "girls-only" weekend.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need:</span></div>
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Shoes with the rubber toe, such as Converse</div>
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Hot glue</div>
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Sequins</div>
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Decorative jewels </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6y374WYQQRfc9pbzpIeVSkUZ7i1tGiEzZl84zqxx2CTRZydB_7p5cRGCQENOd0nTEx2ym4GbGA3lspwDM8gTqW_YdzWOzx_HwaLM6alSSngN6W2M2o24L2V9NMnVfQC52fhX3/s1600/IMG_8103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6y374WYQQRfc9pbzpIeVSkUZ7i1tGiEzZl84zqxx2CTRZydB_7p5cRGCQENOd0nTEx2ym4GbGA3lspwDM8gTqW_YdzWOzx_HwaLM6alSSngN6W2M2o24L2V9NMnVfQC52fhX3/s1600/IMG_8103.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had her arrange the jewels and sequins on top of the shoe the way she wanted them to be laid out. If kids are old enough to handle hot glue gun, they can attach them after they laid them all out. If your kids are too little, parents should help attaching them.</div>
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And finished...</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">You have no idea how much higher these help you jump! ;-)</span></div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-21179115267427591382014-08-19T09:19:00.000-05:002014-08-19T09:19:00.382-05:00Tips for Planting Perennials and Tour Around the Backyard Farm<div style="text-align: center;">
I thought I would give you a new tour around the backyard today and give you few tips about strategic planting that I use. </div>
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When I buy plants, I think ahead... <b>how tall will they get</b>? That is very important when it comes to placement of the plants. For example look at this picture below... I started on the left with ground cover that doesn't grow too tall, followed by taller and then taller plants (The dark leafed plant in the back will still get taller - it's a late bloomer). Tall grass is placed in he back.</div>
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And look at this same setting from a different angle. It still works, doesn't it?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwESNU2XscnX0Wnc3Z7fcBEWcvjp6PuOUBziHuWIfladv8AtSxMahfhvPs-QgsqXtreY1lc1ex0gk-aDmqHbR1sJJRHEr6zCm5SgGQOQOrNkK7DUHgPeFTRJYpEBvbS04KdE4B/s1600/IMG_7015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwESNU2XscnX0Wnc3Z7fcBEWcvjp6PuOUBziHuWIfladv8AtSxMahfhvPs-QgsqXtreY1lc1ex0gk-aDmqHbR1sJJRHEr6zCm5SgGQOQOrNkK7DUHgPeFTRJYpEBvbS04KdE4B/s1600/IMG_7015.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I took this picture of the same plant just recently, when all the plants got even taller. Also did you notice that <b>I like to incorporate rocks into my garden</b>? I love how they add that sharp edgy look to it.</div>
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The beautiful greenery is in great <b>contrast</b> with the grey rocks. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlv0DSEAEBKyE72As3jNNRU6OPmwjwlAK3qdKOmbtrrrNcP1bd1tOEC7UAat13u7gtALvoiABt8l3eisP9JAGcO9EoZGwdHfKfpy_LZkh3DIU9zFgzyiXc0ntJ_iilp3AyeYx/s1600/IMG_7012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlv0DSEAEBKyE72As3jNNRU6OPmwjwlAK3qdKOmbtrrrNcP1bd1tOEC7UAat13u7gtALvoiABt8l3eisP9JAGcO9EoZGwdHfKfpy_LZkh3DIU9zFgzyiXc0ntJ_iilp3AyeYx/s1600/IMG_7012.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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And how about all the <b>different shapes </b>you can play with? I just love the contrast the rocks create. We didn't have to purchase the rocks, I got them from people who were getting rid of them - bonus!</div>
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Besides different sizes, I also love <b>combining different shapes, textures, and colors</b>. You can see an example on the picture below - how the thin grass breaks up the space in the front of the bee balm. And then the lavender plant (first year for this one so it's still tiny, but again, I am thinking ahead) and pointy leaves of iris.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzyUSg7vW0EZWiE_nyTWPv7v0fsWgwe6VrQ7ZBE1NkyCXNe8QXZhtrqlQRSmSrOY6NUHpQc2U1OMjLllnPjZ-rU-T9OmPvPH658jexHmxtfzgSpQxQ8AO_R-3x2Rf27L5LtKr/s1600/IMG_7461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzyUSg7vW0EZWiE_nyTWPv7v0fsWgwe6VrQ7ZBE1NkyCXNe8QXZhtrqlQRSmSrOY6NUHpQc2U1OMjLllnPjZ-rU-T9OmPvPH658jexHmxtfzgSpQxQ8AO_R-3x2Rf27L5LtKr/s1600/IMG_7461.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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...or over here by our pond I placed an ever green bush with hostas and cat tails in the background...</div>
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<b>Think outside the box </b>when it comes to designing your garden. <b>I like placing garden decorations</b> into our garden beds, they add an extra touch to the whole picture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOQ3YSOT-6KnBrIP2vROrZ5QetDGfYtym7uHfIANDzWiBh-bqQsD8N36jDR2eL7tQ4dG-X6RjmfZOPJJTBxVFx7sCGzVRUZnsfUQRs43mMQJpgnPDvPEnDPoSM-YJD33ydStx/s1600/IMG_7463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOQ3YSOT-6KnBrIP2vROrZ5QetDGfYtym7uHfIANDzWiBh-bqQsD8N36jDR2eL7tQ4dG-X6RjmfZOPJJTBxVFx7sCGzVRUZnsfUQRs43mMQJpgnPDvPEnDPoSM-YJD33ydStx/s1600/IMG_7463.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am in love with these terra-cotta glazed garden balls.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLRLayvV2heqmV3oGtWIxL86rhgCBTYu8Q2OUu1zakaVFP9CLaXAZc1PmGg4jEkpskPi1xtWRryaO13Qpir_gEA0-dYxVNz5jhC3dwz6GOLrBzhyrLuLKmZhOlZjmiYrppOGcn/s1600/IMG_7468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLRLayvV2heqmV3oGtWIxL86rhgCBTYu8Q2OUu1zakaVFP9CLaXAZc1PmGg4jEkpskPi1xtWRryaO13Qpir_gEA0-dYxVNz5jhC3dwz6GOLrBzhyrLuLKmZhOlZjmiYrppOGcn/s1600/IMG_7468.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Don't throw out that old barrel planter. The <b>rustic look </b>adds a little <b>vintage</b> to your design.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7AyuyaQLKLoqGaIUdX4C690apsLZu1D9v1Aows1lTGyasapXqPJ7c0rGHVGI_9uFH2GmdAlPCFVGXUZFCnJbyoBGrkvIkgrSPTZmt211oH4S0wg_MXFsxJgxYT-vbplUQjasN/s1600/IMG_7473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7AyuyaQLKLoqGaIUdX4C690apsLZu1D9v1Aows1lTGyasapXqPJ7c0rGHVGI_9uFH2GmdAlPCFVGXUZFCnJbyoBGrkvIkgrSPTZmt211oH4S0wg_MXFsxJgxYT-vbplUQjasN/s1600/IMG_7473.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Every year we somehow change something in the backyard. Either things begin to over grow or we just have a better idea ;-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo3gicmzGNZcPZsR-UEm2_B4oi6XZCJ_JTWziaGs8SHxP79rYW2r4MgvPgnheQbFZkvMAd1V2Ok6wR62gjyVNZd53CgMfnXXay3QXJeMuigEv4uhWhuNW6vIBpI1oeHRl8bdeO/s1600/IMG_7475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo3gicmzGNZcPZsR-UEm2_B4oi6XZCJ_JTWziaGs8SHxP79rYW2r4MgvPgnheQbFZkvMAd1V2Ok6wR62gjyVNZd53CgMfnXXay3QXJeMuigEv4uhWhuNW6vIBpI1oeHRl8bdeO/s1600/IMG_7475.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I spoke earlier about the different textures and shapes. I have another example below, where my husband added this drift wood into the equation. And as a ground cover, to make everything look neat we choose either gravel or free mulch that town offers for us to come pick up.</div>
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Don't forget you are not limited if you only have an option to use planters... In the next post I will give you some tips for container planting ;-)</div>
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I hope you enjoyed this year's tour! Enjoy the end of summer in your garden :-)</div>
<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-46684572815301939902014-08-16T09:33:00.001-05:002014-08-16T09:33:01.690-05:00Tip for Healthier Tomato Plants<div style="text-align: center;">
Just a quick tip how to keep your tomato plants healthy and have more tomatoes!</div>
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<b>Remove those suckers!</b></div>
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They are called suckers because they suck the precious energy the plant needs to put into the actual tomatoes fruit. You need to pinch or cut them off as soon as you see one.</div>
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What are they? Look at the picture below - do you see the extra small branch that is starting to develop between the stem and the original branch? That's the sucker.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zCvvJkmWC-4lU5tJybSPtM34BhUIE2Z40-A7gAImiE9AymvlRacGFWO_UAtl_s4ycDYLmmjsHJNtDCDJ_cAMIuU9yHhZ0-Kfk6LaS268s9TNdhdgQBO6_PXtynsc61DR7ZXR/s1600/IMG_8073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zCvvJkmWC-4lU5tJybSPtM34BhUIE2Z40-A7gAImiE9AymvlRacGFWO_UAtl_s4ycDYLmmjsHJNtDCDJ_cAMIuU9yHhZ0-Kfk6LaS268s9TNdhdgQBO6_PXtynsc61DR7ZXR/s1600/IMG_8073.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Sometimes I catch them very tiny and that is a bonus - the sooner you get rid of them, the better for your plant. It can focus on the important job. Also if you leave them, your plant becomes an uncontrollable bush and you have difficult time getting to your crop.</div>
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Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-65274584963306933922014-08-05T07:00:00.000-05:002014-08-05T07:00:00.172-05:00Feeding Eggshells to Your Chickens<div style="text-align: center;">
Feeding eggshells to the chicken has been around what seems like forever. If you are like us, you don't like to waste any leftovers and you like to use as much as possible. Of course, <b>you can compost the eggshells</b> but if you feed them to your girls, they will provide some extra calcium in their diet, which they so badly need. Every egg contains a large amount of calcium and if the hen is lacking it in her diet, the rest of her body will suffer. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Benefits of feeding the eggshells to the chickens</b></span></div>
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1. No wasting leftovers</div>
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2. Providing some extra calcium to the chickens' diet</div>
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You have to <b>dry the eggshells</b> before you can feed them to the chickens. The reason for that is (as I heard it from our grandmother) that the chickens don't eat any of the actual wet part because that might promote egg eating in you coop. I have double oven and I mainly use the top part. I have a big cookie sheet ready in the bottom oven and every time I have some eggshells I place them on the cookie sheet. You can find any spot in the kitchen... I heard people keeping them under the sink, in an empty cupboard, or in their pantry. Just make sure they are in a place, where they can dry.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-fe7CMBit8xCxZVSYD88xd4ktrVF1dcvuODNMT3uLV5Wambjab5mPiEozKKWnvUx3XQ-0h97ulWCciMcH5ISfAPvqxB1DxdEaeg74Rwd0saUJgr9iLWiUTJ4KZBRBXyXfJJr/s1600/IMG_7932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-fe7CMBit8xCxZVSYD88xd4ktrVF1dcvuODNMT3uLV5Wambjab5mPiEozKKWnvUx3XQ-0h97ulWCciMcH5ISfAPvqxB1DxdEaeg74Rwd0saUJgr9iLWiUTJ4KZBRBXyXfJJr/s1600/IMG_7932.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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After you dry the eggshells, you would want to break them up into tiny pieces. Hens don't really have the brain capacity to realize that you are feeding them the eggshells from the eggs that they lay but they could visualize the round objects and connect it (like when people place golf balls into the nesting boxes to promote egg laying there... golf balls are very similar to the egg shape). Hens sometimes start eating the eggs they lay because they lack the calcium in their diet or they are simply bored. I have never have it happen but I sure heard a lot about it. <b>You can avoid this problem by drying the eggshells and breaking them into tiny pieces</b> - see bottom picture.</div>
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Now you are ready to bring them to your coop. I mix them with their regular feed and they gobble it up no problem.</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-77384597349527307662014-08-01T07:25:00.000-05:002014-08-01T07:25:00.020-05:00How Plants Travel To Find Light<div style="text-align: center;">
Try this fun experiment with your kids this summer! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All you need is:</span></div>
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shoe box</div>
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tape</div>
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small plastic cup</div>
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soil</div>
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2 bean seeds</div>
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(and a little patience)</div>
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Cut the shoe box lid into 2 rectangular pieces so the width equals the width of the shoe box and it reaches just right into the middle of the box after you bend it. Tape it to the box the way you see it on the picture below. Cut a hole on top of the box.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiBZro4oCMeTf6U2kM3CrHanDKu02aUG2qMUmyFv52d63vGiZqgDiCaV_vxHRwcismBZUtv1sXt0YNNOlKosx5gFdlQgrVYjKsIqn6xIswlQ7BOHXYbqpVQRJE-9iwOaKOlQx5/s1600/IMG_6850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiBZro4oCMeTf6U2kM3CrHanDKu02aUG2qMUmyFv52d63vGiZqgDiCaV_vxHRwcismBZUtv1sXt0YNNOlKosx5gFdlQgrVYjKsIqn6xIswlQ7BOHXYbqpVQRJE-9iwOaKOlQx5/s1600/IMG_6850.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Fill cup with soil and place 2 bean seeds on top, covering them little bit with the soil. Now place the cup into the box and place the box by a window so the cup receives direct sunlight. Water it and <b>keep moist throughout the whole experiment</b>. When your plants reach 2 inches, leave the box at the same spot but turn it away from the sun. We turned and tilted ours to have the hole face the sun. </div>
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Over the next couple weeks, watch the plant travel to the light. It's quite amazing how this works!</div>
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Talk with the kids how important light is for plants. They will turn, bend over, and bend over backwards to go find it and this is the proof!</div>
<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-11812664132091935242014-07-29T07:07:00.000-05:002014-07-29T07:07:00.120-05:00Start Your Own Herb Garden<div style="text-align: center;">
Starting an herb garden has been on my mind for years.. But I was going to school, then we had children... so it wasn't until 2 years ago when I finally found couple spots and started planning. By now, I am glad I did and I am here to share with you some pictures as well as small advice about starting your own!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoEnGu0uhw5VQXE7jlffEITdht8K3Wr3rvyJXk1b7vpo3-GLzDdvKVKP2ff0gG4ujE7n4ApH47OQ9LJk_HnCRz66qq9ZQZZ1oPeWpzd-Ac0zNPj0YCOP_hMms9PTJvTb6_r5Px/s1600/IMG_6304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoEnGu0uhw5VQXE7jlffEITdht8K3Wr3rvyJXk1b7vpo3-GLzDdvKVKP2ff0gG4ujE7n4ApH47OQ9LJk_HnCRz66qq9ZQZZ1oPeWpzd-Ac0zNPj0YCOP_hMms9PTJvTb6_r5Px/s1600/IMG_6304.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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My first herb plant came from my husband's grandma and it was <b>peppermint</b>. I started with a tinny bunch that you see above and look what 2 years did to it ;-) This brings me to the first important point for starting your herb garden - <b>Plan out your space carefully! </b>Read the labels on your plants or ask the person who is giving it to you - how large does the plant get? Plants in the mint family can spread really wide. I suggest you maintain them in the Fall and Spring. I love to share mine with friends or dry them for the winter months.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RIeDCmkWGZAQwj62i1gICLmqZPsfWl4JVqLCg3KmBTR5lO2qV1zl7mByDfuviMvEUtwf_I8o-mk6DXy0sVqoT920_2k8hVCmIFR3Dq9HE1TY2vAOsomVT83UUVcC81K2QGSI/s1600/IMG_7469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RIeDCmkWGZAQwj62i1gICLmqZPsfWl4JVqLCg3KmBTR5lO2qV1zl7mByDfuviMvEUtwf_I8o-mk6DXy0sVqoT920_2k8hVCmIFR3Dq9HE1TY2vAOsomVT83UUVcC81K2QGSI/s1600/IMG_7469.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love fresh oregano in my potato dishes! Here is a small bunch in my garden - <b>Oregano</b> doesn't spread fast but it becomes very bushy. I found that one plant was enough for our family to use as a fresh ingredient during the summer and also have plenty to dry for the winter!</div>
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Who doesn't love <b>thyme</b> in a chicken dish? Thyme has tiny leaves and doesn't become very large. I like it right on the front edge of my herb garden! I will be adding few more plants this year. Did you know that thyme is great herb to use when you have cough? We love making tea or just simply dipping fresh stem into our water bottle!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJa7Kr5ds261mZ2p_q453VF8l0l7xCPZqY59zfIOvcHEG9VztmHK_yw25dvE5a6YGtaK90b-xNG92BD4M9z7SM0X0k-4CTkARziguM3bIaopQ4o2jl8aouCtO25mRpPWDlgXXL/s1600/IMG_6306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJa7Kr5ds261mZ2p_q453VF8l0l7xCPZqY59zfIOvcHEG9VztmHK_yw25dvE5a6YGtaK90b-xNG92BD4M9z7SM0X0k-4CTkARziguM3bIaopQ4o2jl8aouCtO25mRpPWDlgXXL/s1600/IMG_6306.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Don't just assume that you need ground space for your herbs! I am sure you heard about <b>potted herb garden</b>... If you live in a palace that only has a porch, a patio, or a balcony, this would be a perfect fit for you! Even though I have a backyard, I still like to break up the space using potted herbs. Like in this picture, I use bright red color pot for all green background. The herb that needs to be in the pot if you want to enjoy it yearly is <b>rosemary</b>. It doesn't like tough midwestern winters so I take it inside for the cold months. But right now it plays a great role in my herb garden bed by the pond. </div>
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Originally I also placed a mint plant into the pot because I knew it was going to spread widely and I had no space for it. I will be replanting it this year into my side garden herb bed.</div>
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Take a look at my side house herb garden... As you might notice, my intention here is not only to have useful plants in my yard but also to have a pleasant and unexpected eye catcher ;-) Which brings me to the next advice - <b>Choose your plants carefully</b>. You want to plant herbs that you enjoy using in your dishes or your drinks and you want to combine them so they all compliment each other esthetically. Look out for height, width, and color of your plant. I also like to combine different sizes and shapes of leaves. And why not add a regular plant into your mix, such as decorative grass or a rock to break up the space. One year after you plant your herbs, you might realize that you positioned them wrong and the taller one is in front of the shorter one - no worries, just replant... this is all a case of trial and error and by the second year, all will be good.</div>
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And finally <b>choose the right location based on how much sun light your plants require</b>. Most herbs love sun, so make sure they receive at least 5-6 hours of sun light per day. Those that love full sun exposure are: lavender, oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary (also known as the Mediterranean Herbs) Parsley, lemon balm, and mint plants will be happy in shade.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyADSvAjIjhYn1G3Cghyo_E3wXgR0DaYEU80cbAwC_B0A_z33de0c0-MUN8aWwmgF6jfoR1lplOP18jZV-LfU-gnGBAjK4gfx6ZeD_LyyOaVxuBZsgqQVbRUG3cgtkmA8_ume/s1600/CAM00071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyADSvAjIjhYn1G3Cghyo_E3wXgR0DaYEU80cbAwC_B0A_z33de0c0-MUN8aWwmgF6jfoR1lplOP18jZV-LfU-gnGBAjK4gfx6ZeD_LyyOaVxuBZsgqQVbRUG3cgtkmA8_ume/s1600/CAM00071.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Benefits of growing an herb garden in your home</span></div>
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<b>1. Touching soil is good for the soul</b> - that is my number one benefit of having any kind of garden. So dig as much as you can...</div>
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<b>2. Fresh herbs are always at hand</b> - and they are priceless for any dish you are creating.</div>
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<b>3. It looks beautiful</b> - people love herbs! And people love look at nicely grown bunch of plants!</div>
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<b>4. It smells beautiful</b> - When you pass by it truly smells wonderful!</div>
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<b>5. You save money</b> - Have you seen the prices of fresh herbs in the grocery store? How about dry spices? That is my point exactly!</div>
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<b>6. You get to share it with friends</b> - Last but not least, you get to share your green treasures with your friends!</div>
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<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11216784.post-62258330879844422792014-07-25T15:28:00.000-05:002014-07-26T07:11:14.669-05:00Apricot Coconut Lemon Balm Popsicles<div style="text-align: center;">
Even though we have had only few days of intense heat this summer, kids asked for this refreshing yummy and healthy treat almost everyday! I also love having these on hand almost daily because our house is usually full of neighborhood kids and this is an unexpected and inexpensive treat to share with everyone!</div>
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One of the ingredients is an herb called Lemon Balm... Have you ever heard of the benefits of this plant? According to a Natural News article, lemon balm is a great antioxidant, as well as calming herb, that helps reduce anxiety, promotes sleep, and improves indigestion. (I love the calming part - great for kids when they come home all hyped up from playing outside ;-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvBwVsomMDCk_NIgyTP3IiX2ryRDYFF5Lu6qlLtmZTtvDzzNI5ODcst7q0ZXoUjF4gtYmi6ROhZh4DJTVcw9UUtKR7nogEIxzaQI5OzdBEFThVJF7pLv5XpspIMc44ukeVVuM/s1600/IMG_7928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvBwVsomMDCk_NIgyTP3IiX2ryRDYFF5Lu6qlLtmZTtvDzzNI5ODcst7q0ZXoUjF4gtYmi6ROhZh4DJTVcw9UUtKR7nogEIxzaQI5OzdBEFThVJF7pLv5XpspIMc44ukeVVuM/s1600/IMG_7928.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You will need:</span></div>
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3 Apricots (or any kind of tropical fruit such as pineapple, mango, or peach)</div>
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1 Banana peeled</div>
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1/4 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes</div>
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5 tablespoons of Vanilla Yogurt</div>
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2 cups of coconut milk</div>
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1 teaspoon of honey (or 100% maple syrup)</div>
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Leaves from 1 long lemon balm stem</div>
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Combine all ingredients in a blender.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_eMeUp94GKUKfNC2yvSbHepqGv89QPfN4zjg565wM310yYgOjr3mkEOJbQtZIalZmX1USp_xsBI1A5-nLtE2k5nn4MxjUhX1QeUp9UiQaH7zycjOjw4CfZjKX9BOlgsKZXC5/s1600/IMG_7924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_eMeUp94GKUKfNC2yvSbHepqGv89QPfN4zjg565wM310yYgOjr3mkEOJbQtZIalZmX1USp_xsBI1A5-nLtE2k5nn4MxjUhX1QeUp9UiQaH7zycjOjw4CfZjKX9BOlgsKZXC5/s1600/IMG_7924.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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When all is nicely blended, pour the mixture into popsicle molds.</div>
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Place your tops on and place them carefully into the freezers. </div>
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These will be ready in about 2-3 hours and will last for few weeks... but that is not a really important information because as soon as the kids realize they are in there, they will not last a day! ;-)</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
<br />Monikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01713733147919881128noreply@blogger.com0