tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48515509325219705072024-03-13T04:45:10.412-07:00Preppy Girl on the FarmAngela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-62096563108490978332013-06-17T14:31:00.000-07:002013-06-17T14:31:03.879-07:00Lunch at Devils BackboneSummertime is the time to do a little exploring. My husband and I had opportunity to have lunch at Devil's Backbone in Roseland, VA. This is a brewpub in the finest sense of the word. They have an expansive menu, and everything we tried was delicious. The beer cheese spread, made with their Vienna Lager, was superb. And their summer beer selections are tasty and adventurous.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTrK6Np13MGJ7CY3vmPm_brNn1gDYmorFKPnnn-daLy_jqz43LLMHzw0COzaFAGixytIrWDn9COc_P2nGhTpGFD_sUrF0F-mmiIBNYSG0rRUnBO_AeTgQmUwd45t_Sarpzhr8ia7fSemB/s1600/Devils+Backbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTrK6Np13MGJ7CY3vmPm_brNn1gDYmorFKPnnn-daLy_jqz43LLMHzw0COzaFAGixytIrWDn9COc_P2nGhTpGFD_sUrF0F-mmiIBNYSG0rRUnBO_AeTgQmUwd45t_Sarpzhr8ia7fSemB/s400/Devils+Backbone.jpg" /></a></div>
I was surprised to find out that I really enjoyed their BERLINER METRO WEISS
German -style Sour Ale. Gold Medal 2012 Great American Beer Festival German-style Sour Ale Lactobacilli were added to this brew to provide a tart & snappy sourness. Straw in color and light bodied. Berliner Weiss is often served with a shot of syrup to sweeten it; traditionally woodruff or raspberry. 3.8 abv, 21IBUs
I ordered it with blackberry syrup. And then opted for a growler to take home.
If you are headed through Nelson County, make Devil's Backbone a stop on your travels. Here is a link to their website so you can peruse their menu of food and beer.
<a href="http://www.dbbrewingcompany.com/default.aspx">Devils Backbone</a>
Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-77226453680555395582013-05-16T08:11:00.000-07:002013-05-16T08:11:51.719-07:00The peonies are in bloomI think peonies are some of the prettiest flowers, and there are so many varieties. Here is just a sampling of what is blooming in the garden right now.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15pqYZF5Kb2U0xGX0myAxlF-bID-uD8-knXE4O148is6JPc7YpqZeCUkx1Npw6RgOQZLvDSutVfllhuCTW6797UiGge38RhUNif3TEoQ5KEjcNJO2NToDuJNHOW-3dG5apfiqFpjMnbuE/s1600/309926_10201069772977064_1950065096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15pqYZF5Kb2U0xGX0myAxlF-bID-uD8-knXE4O148is6JPc7YpqZeCUkx1Npw6RgOQZLvDSutVfllhuCTW6797UiGge38RhUNif3TEoQ5KEjcNJO2NToDuJNHOW-3dG5apfiqFpjMnbuE/s320/309926_10201069772977064_1950065096_n.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicip4xZLU98Dnp_evedWiFu09cMQnrHCOdaHGErwNicQXMXiQUbREFqsGpO2KfB9qEcQG3nTpyHJWCnKsWfsyNipkuDtVPzSa-gAQ1RVyZ-sFMw4qr68Pz_8jYgC8Qjo1WJxUVs1lL10J_/s1600/405688_10201069771897037_952590111_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicip4xZLU98Dnp_evedWiFu09cMQnrHCOdaHGErwNicQXMXiQUbREFqsGpO2KfB9qEcQG3nTpyHJWCnKsWfsyNipkuDtVPzSa-gAQ1RVyZ-sFMw4qr68Pz_8jYgC8Qjo1WJxUVs1lL10J_/s320/405688_10201069771897037_952590111_n.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYL3Jcv9VsQZ9l-IkmOU43M1Tdm4IN2nFJtwbE97isz0BXZ06oGVtucVo65DSDbkM-gXZoyV9HdPS7jfcZ4Bk3Abh-ZNESteVxKUYB-SyyLlvsi_hY3yd45z3N_fi7SxVobOn2M1E7hDcA/s1600/945896_10201069772217045_1114514455_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYL3Jcv9VsQZ9l-IkmOU43M1Tdm4IN2nFJtwbE97isz0BXZ06oGVtucVo65DSDbkM-gXZoyV9HdPS7jfcZ4Bk3Abh-ZNESteVxKUYB-SyyLlvsi_hY3yd45z3N_fi7SxVobOn2M1E7hDcA/s320/945896_10201069772217045_1114514455_n.jpg" /></a>Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-20448330124365166872013-04-13T08:36:00.000-07:002013-04-13T08:38:52.637-07:00Making Your Own Baby FoodWhen I found out the Little Man was going to be arriving, I decided I wanted to make my own baby food. Everything in those little jars always looked gross to me. So I have been buying organic produce all winter, pureeing it and freezing it in ice trays. I did buy some pouches of food(organic) at Target and found those to be so convenient when you're shopping or travelling. No mess, proper portions and easily stored.
Then I was walking through Target the other day and found what I think is the perfect happy medium.
<b>The Fresh Squeezed Squeeze Station</b>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdU5ir0P-Mk326yWtodLrBeBU6ihx0BK18Tv1S2nUo4HwXkOBNRXJGQIl95AMXFGAvLc71qGNoZ4Oo6fPOpdknrCddLWZkdEz1hJXRYCORNqEOfWVE03B9alSXFoJzi61bGLFNhbwk_yV/s1600/208-101_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdU5ir0P-Mk326yWtodLrBeBU6ihx0BK18Tv1S2nUo4HwXkOBNRXJGQIl95AMXFGAvLc71qGNoZ4Oo6fPOpdknrCddLWZkdEz1hJXRYCORNqEOfWVE03B9alSXFoJzi61bGLFNhbwk_yV/s320/208-101_001.jpg" /></a>
You can make your own pouches.
Here it is in action at my house this morning, making applesauce.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcHs8H0Bt_outlos2yOEkaKz5lnq2dNoq4LmOiR4cRCN9eYDQfWoT_1n6fpTwppfTBL3FEe-o248TcS9z5MzE5aSlrVtsbxQebh-tUFgHpHd4LqzcGllPEWKeWhq5SthNLQ3G2E9tYH_U/s1600/photo3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcHs8H0Bt_outlos2yOEkaKz5lnq2dNoq4LmOiR4cRCN9eYDQfWoT_1n6fpTwppfTBL3FEe-o248TcS9z5MzE5aSlrVtsbxQebh-tUFgHpHd4LqzcGllPEWKeWhq5SthNLQ3G2E9tYH_U/s320/photo3.JPG" /></a>
And here are the finished products!
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOLkMUpcS-xeEydaU0se1qz78ePPHmm32_pJStx0bM4odCHuwUcdctYu7XKIIm8J-mEwHGE9s_gtRBu9XH0KY6k2-7X726N8DVgMFOMcH6ZvhuwGTxo2Lb8Ys7hOeB9yH7_v4OMnGgtGd/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOLkMUpcS-xeEydaU0se1qz78ePPHmm32_pJStx0bM4odCHuwUcdctYu7XKIIm8J-mEwHGE9s_gtRBu9XH0KY6k2-7X726N8DVgMFOMcH6ZvhuwGTxo2Lb8Ys7hOeB9yH7_v4OMnGgtGd/s320/photo.JPG" /></a>
20 pounds of apples made 33 4 oz. pouches of food and I took me about an hour. I love that I know exactly what is going into the little man's food and it's in a convenient package.
If you would like to find out more about the Fresh Squeezed Feeding Line from Infantino, here is the <a href="http://www.infantino.com/fresh-squeezed/">link</a>.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-42626069137119565082013-04-08T05:33:00.001-07:002013-04-08T05:33:10.756-07:00Goodbye to a Fashion IconThe world has a little less sunshine in it. Lilly Pulitzer passed away.
More from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lillypulitzer?ref=ts&fref=ts">Lilly Pulitzer Facebook</a> page:
Early this morning, Lilly Pulitzer Rousseau passed away peacefully in Palm Beach, surrounded by family and loved ones. Lilly has been a true inspiration to us and we will miss her.
In the days and weeks ahead we will celebrate all that Lilly meant to us. Lilly was a true original who has brought together generations through her bright and happy mark on the world.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPiDdzUYPWYWUWZNq2F3fUbcI1BW_UeL64c1W_qd4WS3p7SV-9TZK12E1aWKrvRAut8_9Fs5GqwQ-dt4u5poodpok7XZanUM7BDJHTuNKMQnzzvwqfCMnhzYVYqCbRh5rmt43tL5KXCCbu/s1600/08pulitzer_obit_1-popup.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPiDdzUYPWYWUWZNq2F3fUbcI1BW_UeL64c1W_qd4WS3p7SV-9TZK12E1aWKrvRAut8_9Fs5GqwQ-dt4u5poodpok7XZanUM7BDJHTuNKMQnzzvwqfCMnhzYVYqCbRh5rmt43tL5KXCCbu/s320/08pulitzer_obit_1-popup.jpg" /></a>
I discovered Lilly when I went to the University of Virginia. It was what you wore for the warm weather football games and for the Foxfield Races. I have worn Lilly ever since, getting matching dresses for my Minnie, finding Lilly swim trunks for my new little man.
A true example of the entreprenuerial spirit. She will be missed. Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-59943459639278533362011-12-24T18:06:00.000-08:002011-12-24T18:06:01.118-08:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogq07ZWF3tZyaJFiEvtUJaqaM-UxL9sTFF81ayMKKp78dxIf9sTc4kUS-0XJKYqoSDBi6UwJIm9xPiSERC5X1JBIyYWEVB_YZ_fYzK9SBLBpsUkcoRdKZCplqJ5vMVD_yJqqQsKmpc2x9/s1600/IMG_0860.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="249" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogq07ZWF3tZyaJFiEvtUJaqaM-UxL9sTFF81ayMKKp78dxIf9sTc4kUS-0XJKYqoSDBi6UwJIm9xPiSERC5X1JBIyYWEVB_YZ_fYzK9SBLBpsUkcoRdKZCplqJ5vMVD_yJqqQsKmpc2x9/s400/IMG_0860.gif" /></a></div>
Luke Chapter 2
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyT6f0H8Tg-8Hasr7iZXeZQIgfWnrwKHd2FmRtc6rSDiIUs3wz9C02M5gyWHrNYLdBpzFB6c2_zLQQP8Vv7C5UEU83x6vEQ2kwQF9ML5XnGibM0zc0tg7J1lCouo-G6YluhRt8-KXhWy__/s1600/IMG_0865.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="268" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyT6f0H8Tg-8Hasr7iZXeZQIgfWnrwKHd2FmRtc6rSDiIUs3wz9C02M5gyWHrNYLdBpzFB6c2_zLQQP8Vv7C5UEU83x6vEQ2kwQF9ML5XnGibM0zc0tg7J1lCouo-G6YluhRt8-KXhWy__/s400/IMG_0865.gif" /></a></div>Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-84341347009912982922011-12-18T16:56:00.000-08:002011-12-18T16:56:00.073-08:00The Magnolia GarlandI hosted a Christmas luncheon on Wednesday and the night before I thought the stairs needed a little decoration. So I pruned the magnolia trees in the front yard and made a garland. Who needs to finish cleaning the rest of the house if the stairs look beautiful?
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMwqqv1SgvXLLd6TWAZgRHXV16qE_Uj8vmp65wV5WGBAYpVy4JrUxlVm8bQj_VjHnZJ-ZAsB3J7apygTnfIWvdI15jXH-3S8o5xOHZvZRmMIRvt1BTpb3Ei9W0orp_wTxLZkLuoXM-rzCK/s1600/IMG_0838.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMwqqv1SgvXLLd6TWAZgRHXV16qE_Uj8vmp65wV5WGBAYpVy4JrUxlVm8bQj_VjHnZJ-ZAsB3J7apygTnfIWvdI15jXH-3S8o5xOHZvZRmMIRvt1BTpb3Ei9W0orp_wTxLZkLuoXM-rzCK/s400/IMG_0838.gif" /></a></div>Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-30878028863717980452011-12-17T16:52:00.000-08:002011-12-17T16:52:00.342-08:00Glitter, Glitter EverywhereA few years ago I found a huge box of the old Christmas lights with big blue bulbs. I always thought I would make one of those huge trees with lights, but my husband informed me how not energy efficient these lights were. So they have sat in the barn for a while.
This year I grabbed a bunch of the bulbs and glitter them.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8I9Pq0MvnsQ_t5Z_m4rWFnT4-5PkoLXgGAi44L06sKdgiGk3KwRhuhPOOaBFl-hX6b3Uv-NWmP_XhlJWzNyrEmAOaKHeIuC-L5PrpduzniWF5Z56IaQrIJyvNJ8VBw4gF1Wy058-N2g5/s1600/IMG_0825.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="247" width="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8I9Pq0MvnsQ_t5Z_m4rWFnT4-5PkoLXgGAi44L06sKdgiGk3KwRhuhPOOaBFl-hX6b3Uv-NWmP_XhlJWzNyrEmAOaKHeIuC-L5PrpduzniWF5Z56IaQrIJyvNJ8VBw4gF1Wy058-N2g5/s400/IMG_0825.gif" /></a></div>
I then filled vases of different sizes with the bulbs and added them to compliment the displays on my china hutch and buffet.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsB9rpoe8p56_5aXAyIJU3ZJJihifIgv-zJ6xi4DYcTLlEpQOT-Q_xGeJlVhz9cx4ohZAIZ0Ro7GH6ZUQ6oC21xA7h7AYHhMZBjW30-LYIsgEu8lXmgoEub41qa-ib3cb6tqzy7lj36PGr/s1600/IMG_0816.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="231" width="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsB9rpoe8p56_5aXAyIJU3ZJJihifIgv-zJ6xi4DYcTLlEpQOT-Q_xGeJlVhz9cx4ohZAIZ0Ro7GH6ZUQ6oC21xA7h7AYHhMZBjW30-LYIsgEu8lXmgoEub41qa-ib3cb6tqzy7lj36PGr/s400/IMG_0816.gif" /></a></div>
SO find some old bulbs and glitter away. Use Martha Stewart glitter of course.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-89079350176702424542011-12-16T16:41:00.000-08:002011-12-16T16:41:00.297-08:00The Display on Top of the China HutchJust a quick post to show you the top of the china hutch.
A big floral arrangement and glittered French hens and roosters. I used Martha Stewart's new glitter paint. It takes several coats to get good coverage but it is a beautiful result.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLctjaRfyIIxa-CW-puII2Q4Tuh2XI08YCltDY5a3ooKmiXcxTEZdpJXM5GPMczhZsNW6EmR3lyI0xjEmP9MiHNj462BQM0ZXRXjzn35nqdfjkz67oBcnEQ8PR6avES9p2a1vGKlJB2EZo/s1600/IMG_0814.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="215" width="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLctjaRfyIIxa-CW-puII2Q4Tuh2XI08YCltDY5a3ooKmiXcxTEZdpJXM5GPMczhZsNW6EmR3lyI0xjEmP9MiHNj462BQM0ZXRXjzn35nqdfjkz67oBcnEQ8PR6avES9p2a1vGKlJB2EZo/s400/IMG_0814.gif" /></a></div>Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-6509697756823372452011-12-15T17:08:00.000-08:002011-12-15T17:08:00.134-08:00The Cards are Finished and in the MailI have been making my Christmas cards by hand since I was in college. They are now an expected part of the holiday season.
This year I had a chance to a Paper Source store in Georgetown, a crafter's delight. Here are the "ingredients."
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0BODuQo5mN9BUmPm3xqpMtKSUGfeN-dUCZCvYbDLSyuk_LyDHcuE9ztjK7DL0pHkYSkcYVN92-c69dqv02LgWfjnouTlX1cVWPj0jGbvzhMnEroDld_qsnj8Gl-LXW1I_o89c0WsjO5V3/s1600/IMG_0822.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0BODuQo5mN9BUmPm3xqpMtKSUGfeN-dUCZCvYbDLSyuk_LyDHcuE9ztjK7DL0pHkYSkcYVN92-c69dqv02LgWfjnouTlX1cVWPj0jGbvzhMnEroDld_qsnj8Gl-LXW1I_o89c0WsjO5V3/s400/IMG_0822.gif" /></a></div>
I found the Third Day image on Etsy and printed it on crinoline fabric. All the tutorials I read said to affix the fabric to cardstock but I just sent the fabric through the printer and it did just great.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr508rFEfGQ0DcFgnZ1yAi-ZiDmHr-BnuvFj6nvpS4VX2zppSq6AFJ_tnFAksEB1OqW9PSjBLgSbvuSOZPb9bVb59HZ6C6E0ArDlg7ZLpMh-a-8GJJURsrUfjUVodJSrxzqz-f13hXc_9s/s1600/IMG_0824.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr508rFEfGQ0DcFgnZ1yAi-ZiDmHr-BnuvFj6nvpS4VX2zppSq6AFJ_tnFAksEB1OqW9PSjBLgSbvuSOZPb9bVb59HZ6C6E0ArDlg7ZLpMh-a-8GJJURsrUfjUVodJSrxzqz-f13hXc_9s/s400/IMG_0824.gif" /></a></div>
Here are the finished cards.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqfQwCTbIuP3m4k_3pT7-KWwF5iExurb0umQEQNAp4i-EpHzYJp8ClL8gIapO83g9XmVrlDVtUX6F68T9JTCozBNVij675eJOHXKaoHqB6aKdGHq3Eb68QC2ih4c3ml5T-3Y2O75_hqfbj/s1600/IMG_0835.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqfQwCTbIuP3m4k_3pT7-KWwF5iExurb0umQEQNAp4i-EpHzYJp8ClL8gIapO83g9XmVrlDVtUX6F68T9JTCozBNVij675eJOHXKaoHqB6aKdGHq3Eb68QC2ih4c3ml5T-3Y2O75_hqfbj/s400/IMG_0835.gif" /></a></div>
Each day of Christmas is supposed to have a biblical meaning. The Three hens are faith, hope and love with the greatest of these being love.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-45872270973238163522011-12-14T16:39:00.000-08:002011-12-14T16:39:00.150-08:00Homemade VanillaI try to find a homemade gift to give each year. This fall has been so hectic I needed something simple. I found this great post at <a href="http://whipperberry.com/2011/09/holiday-neighbor-gift-homemade-vanilla-extract.html">Whipperberry</a> for Homemade Vanilla Extract. It really is quite simple. All you need is vodka, vanilla beans and time (about 60 days)>
Here is my finished product.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTM1X8mK_FmScxiHCwvHOhwcJiQ-My3AAoOhVCdMrqSz93TZkYklKZoPMbvLiKN7ArD4aWCkAPeEKhQmuo-nqWsOpa2yBiU__QUMNOEujfSlwpY-VGj2jHUnjCqtlca1__uBR61w3Ne0J/s1600/IMG_0846.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="285" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTM1X8mK_FmScxiHCwvHOhwcJiQ-My3AAoOhVCdMrqSz93TZkYklKZoPMbvLiKN7ArD4aWCkAPeEKhQmuo-nqWsOpa2yBiU__QUMNOEujfSlwpY-VGj2jHUnjCqtlca1__uBR61w3Ne0J/s400/IMG_0846.gif" /></a></div>
Head on over to Whipperberry. She has a great tutorial for the vanilla and the packaging.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-83677513631750976022011-12-13T16:29:00.000-08:002011-12-13T16:34:25.675-08:00My True Love TreeYes, I have a brown Christmas tree. It goes perfectly in my dining room that is painted a color called Cowboy Boots.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtW-V0E1fUCHzQ-muQBO6vouCaOgvr5GLty8RIzUAtaXiLOhJ0vZOT6Z_ftU4bp2tVq9G0psZAUcThl-aBsvfKuBEoWxi6RXw-Ja-TCL_jLr31hsu3x5Gw2AwYV9iyG-AbDWhzQFwURG_5/s1600/IMG_0817.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtW-V0E1fUCHzQ-muQBO6vouCaOgvr5GLty8RIzUAtaXiLOhJ0vZOT6Z_ftU4bp2tVq9G0psZAUcThl-aBsvfKuBEoWxi6RXw-Ja-TCL_jLr31hsu3x5Gw2AwYV9iyG-AbDWhzQFwURG_5/s400/IMG_0817.gif" /></a></div>
In keeping with this year's theme of three French hens, I decorated the tree with feathers in red and brown and "love" glittered in red.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9K54BmgWPrFMtj2I61teKu3Jazac6w0vnRQc6r5eUA1Xjq3Jg-AENGsLxo7MNrdc5ujPiA_OZeZLpAXgv8-QDDP61Ls_lQgnK1UNs_RKSK_t_hh7WIfKkdlATa6rJ7x_m5Ztx15TrYws/s1600/IMG_0818.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9K54BmgWPrFMtj2I61teKu3Jazac6w0vnRQc6r5eUA1Xjq3Jg-AENGsLxo7MNrdc5ujPiA_OZeZLpAXgv8-QDDP61Ls_lQgnK1UNs_RKSK_t_hh7WIfKkdlATa6rJ7x_m5Ztx15TrYws/s400/IMG_0818.gif" /></a></div>
I used the upholstery webbing for the ribbon and topped the tree with brown velvet hydrangeas.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2-IOATKyV4Ju38U1rJ_rkHsadaMw5ky9hvPTiHmdFreQzl_tcbiznOcamRFBVW8uWA-vd5iB_yEM1QiSYYweH0Im3gMKJGeIt1wtzkqsRNTaatY-TlLFb_-elSYLN48sUAa8c_3jZXcm/s1600/IMG_0821.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2-IOATKyV4Ju38U1rJ_rkHsadaMw5ky9hvPTiHmdFreQzl_tcbiznOcamRFBVW8uWA-vd5iB_yEM1QiSYYweH0Im3gMKJGeIt1wtzkqsRNTaatY-TlLFb_-elSYLN48sUAa8c_3jZXcm/s400/IMG_0821.gif" /></a></div>
Many more trees to show you. I just have to take the pictures.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-23285131154505028822011-12-09T09:52:00.000-08:002011-12-09T09:52:00.182-08:00The Wahoo TreeEach year, I create a small tree in the hallway that has ornaments from my alma mater, the University of Virginia. I have thought many times about doing an all blue and orange holiday theme, but I think that's probably a bit much.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uamPw_9Fza846ZtwoUvOUprRn2Pa3__rH0jZtoiiNSZ7HYL_fFGpnY_0qDupApa_pAXwaJSzxhVwBsrklGJ_G4cf4guC7oz-OApTHnePBBoUOjrp8dlHqZ3xGyKnxZtV0myhTDIJUvkS/s1600/IMG_0803.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="308" width="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uamPw_9Fza846ZtwoUvOUprRn2Pa3__rH0jZtoiiNSZ7HYL_fFGpnY_0qDupApa_pAXwaJSzxhVwBsrklGJ_G4cf4guC7oz-OApTHnePBBoUOjrp8dlHqZ3xGyKnxZtV0myhTDIJUvkS/s400/IMG_0803.gif" /></a></div>
I also created this wreath to match. It hangs above the tree.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSrynCOliOqOMURxkYQmyDkYxBQw0UjsDLnmsaYnEsUEYP0I0jv5Lk_gZniZgQgJEOEW0cmSPwsnagy5_NXTNreK7ESzfDGcrmhCeOHWmW8w3ZN3O7nrga7uUI4AyKEftUJgh6LgCBv2c/s1600/IMG_0806.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="236" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSrynCOliOqOMURxkYQmyDkYxBQw0UjsDLnmsaYnEsUEYP0I0jv5Lk_gZniZgQgJEOEW0cmSPwsnagy5_NXTNreK7ESzfDGcrmhCeOHWmW8w3ZN3O7nrga7uUI4AyKEftUJgh6LgCBv2c/s400/IMG_0806.gif" /></a></div>
I created several of these for our tailgating friends at the end of the season. I found the mesh ribbon at a site called <a href="http://www.trendytree.com/">Trendy Tree</a>. You can find lots of ribbon choices, wreaths, garlands and other holiday decor.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-52424663219113889112011-12-08T03:30:00.000-08:002011-12-08T03:30:03.643-08:0015 Identical WreathsI love that our house has so many big windows. That is until I have to create 15 identical wreaths for the holidays. But I did create them once again.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-AiR2ntaG_HSIGLBvY-yC80ccCALA_A1WDuTYJJevaGcRtkcMD8XR9ksIhYShXIyDy6XfF70C6rfHEnINsfWQQbrDTzCd08zc9pDoLjCJmTbcTeenWhqhuQ5oFYIPcjqmkituqRcTYyOy/s1600/IMG_0798.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="226" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-AiR2ntaG_HSIGLBvY-yC80ccCALA_A1WDuTYJJevaGcRtkcMD8XR9ksIhYShXIyDy6XfF70C6rfHEnINsfWQQbrDTzCd08zc9pDoLjCJmTbcTeenWhqhuQ5oFYIPcjqmkituqRcTYyOy/s400/IMG_0798.gif" /></a></div>
The ribbon is burlap upholstery webbing. Since my theme this year is three French hens, I am going for a French shabby chic look with lots of burlap and red. I found all the glittered words a couple years ago at Michaels for $1 each.
Here is a detail shot of one wreath.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIo6NI_FCl86G7mQ_rB3i19ag09Zk6ESPSfhD96HWtrLevnUOsNAEMDHXYuCkqICIhTpBpz-9XmnH_ILjzcoiZMkptvTajB3EEzkaaL-qVPqjizS0waeeTidOWA4liydyk3WSj0JcetPb/s1600/IMG_0802.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="268" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIo6NI_FCl86G7mQ_rB3i19ag09Zk6ESPSfhD96HWtrLevnUOsNAEMDHXYuCkqICIhTpBpz-9XmnH_ILjzcoiZMkptvTajB3EEzkaaL-qVPqjizS0waeeTidOWA4liydyk3WSj0JcetPb/s400/IMG_0802.gif" /></a></div>
Hope you have hung all your wreaths!Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-27115901343886602142011-12-07T07:00:00.000-08:002011-12-07T07:00:05.696-08:00Frankly, Miss ScarlettIt's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Some of the first ornaments I put out every year are my Gone with the Wind ornaments. Gone with the Wind is my favorite book and movie.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXzwkSDFtCTJqlou6RcRgb9GFckLYnqjpoPkMh7onRakXTx1h8IV_GZUiPL2Nu4XzrTyIbfS-iQOrT7h97vLvWab39aIkZAVvJ2fqnV7FJK5XkATI2m7nCo4NJdQjrt_kzZuytQTEgepN/s1600/IMG_0811.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXzwkSDFtCTJqlou6RcRgb9GFckLYnqjpoPkMh7onRakXTx1h8IV_GZUiPL2Nu4XzrTyIbfS-iQOrT7h97vLvWab39aIkZAVvJ2fqnV7FJK5XkATI2m7nCo4NJdQjrt_kzZuytQTEgepN/s400/IMG_0811.gif" /></a></div>
The box that holds the ornaments are actually old post office boxes. Our property once had an old country store that served as the local post office for our area. The store was burned about 10 years ago. But as luck would have it, someone had put the mailboxes out in the chicken coop years ago to serve as nest boxes for the chickens. My dad took the boxes, cleaned them up, fixed any holes and sealed the wood.
It makes the perfect display for ornaments. And this year I filled the last box with this year's ornament.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvezN5ATXmpG_vVxKWE3ghaZWGIYcTnFFTSov1cT7jOiSFHDc6SSVrzNqinqSW80HyH60PKlwaQAXz1NghclwRO8EbPvaKEGA5EPZnndXFvE_CkPxwnO3G8FsEgATvItHRJow8QQJ5_wz/s1600/IMG_0813.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="317" width="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvezN5ATXmpG_vVxKWE3ghaZWGIYcTnFFTSov1cT7jOiSFHDc6SSVrzNqinqSW80HyH60PKlwaQAXz1NghclwRO8EbPvaKEGA5EPZnndXFvE_CkPxwnO3G8FsEgATvItHRJow8QQJ5_wz/s400/IMG_0813.gif" /></a></div>
I hope you enjoy the first look at my holiday decor. I'll share more each day.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-14842728268109183772011-12-06T06:26:00.000-08:002011-12-06T06:26:00.502-08:00Not a Big Fan of the Pot RoastI have never liked Pot Roast, even as a child. A dry, stringy, tough piece of beef is just not what I want to have for dinner.
Then I found this crock pot recipe on Pinterest. BTW are you addicted too? I just love all that I can find on Pinterest and create boards where I can actually find what I liked and then be able to recreate it.
Now back to the Pot Roast.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF-rAIwu6vbFYFL8zRUycXpMYatLE0UItqwJBE1vJsb1BCjQEjxBHz9vXyVeKVgw7Jm6_X8a09uExiqsM0tAyIcnSt-oO3ZhBtL2EJy5hc8Sl1oa3FqzzPpNuIIiZx1JdcBmTI8cjBlte/s1600/270356783850103807_OsKDtho6_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF-rAIwu6vbFYFL8zRUycXpMYatLE0UItqwJBE1vJsb1BCjQEjxBHz9vXyVeKVgw7Jm6_X8a09uExiqsM0tAyIcnSt-oO3ZhBtL2EJy5hc8Sl1oa3FqzzPpNuIIiZx1JdcBmTI8cjBlte/s400/270356783850103807_OsKDtho6_c.jpg" /></a></div>
3 Packet Crockpot Pot Roast
1 beef roast, any kind, sized to fit your crockpot
1 package Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing mix
1 package brown gravy mix, I used Lawrys
1 package Italian dressing mix, I used Good Seasons
1/2 cup very warm water
Directions:
Place roast in crockpot. In a bowl combine the envelopes of mixes together. Sprinkle on top of the roast. Pour in 1/2 cup warm water. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
I did not have a package of Italian Dressing mix, so I just used regular Italian Dressing.
I also added some cubed potatoes about 4 hours into the process.
Everything was delicious.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-67287400620099382142011-12-05T06:15:00.001-08:002011-12-05T06:24:01.046-08:00You Know You're Martha Stewart When.....I have followed Martha Stewart and subscribed to her magazine from the beginning. I admire how multi-faceted her life truly is, from the designer clothes to the sheep, chickens and horses.
I found this post from Liz Logan at <a href="http://www.makeitbetter.net/entertainment/whats-hot/3705-you-know-youre-martha-stewart-when">Make It Better</a> that I thought was really great.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26VHc1vV_W5iWVPjRqgOK-1sgsVdqzyZPHQRb-vcZ2z0jMTpfjUIyax4He6-Hg63o5W9yRqCORWYu-NUtsADKZXUzJi8NFlDJWyl1Cq_G223OxRdERrf0QYYIo0-0CVR-Imf29n7F4f-u/s1600/MarthaStewart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26VHc1vV_W5iWVPjRqgOK-1sgsVdqzyZPHQRb-vcZ2z0jMTpfjUIyax4He6-Hg63o5W9yRqCORWYu-NUtsADKZXUzJi8NFlDJWyl1Cq_G223OxRdERrf0QYYIo0-0CVR-Imf29n7F4f-u/s400/MarthaStewart.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>You Know You’re Martha Stewart When …</b>
We put together a checklist of “Martha” characteristics after meeting the domestic guru at a recent Evanston luncheon for the American Cancer Society.
Martha shared stories from her everyday life and her new book, “Martha’s Entertaining: A Year of Celebrations.”
You know you’re a Martha wannabe if …
1. Your children could make a living by making fun of you.
2. You have “never ordered a pizza.”
3. You have never sipped wine by yourself.
4. You raise your own chickens at home. (Martha brings the farm-fresh eggs with her to the office to distribute among her co-workers—“only four per person!”)
5. You’ve been to jail and talk openly about your time there.
6. You own multiple homes.
7. You can feed your family almost entirely from what you grow in your all-organic garden. (And your green house is as large as many people’s homes.)
8. You treasure the ceramic nativity scene you made and painted yourself (in Martha’s case, while incarcerated).
9. You do yoga nearly every day. (Martha has private sessions with the head of the Iyengar Yoga Institute in New York.)
10. You believe it’s okay to indulge in dessert every once in awhile, “when the flavors are fresh and pure.”
11. You simply could not function without your personal chef. (Martha’s chef is Pierre Schaedelin, who worked at the famous restaurant Le Cirque in New York, and he got her through her house arrest.)
12. You rarely eat anything that comes out of “a can or a box.”
13. You enjoy horseback riding.
14. On Christmas Eve, you eat caviar.
15. Before leaving for work each morning, you have to feed all your animals (for Martha, 5 cats, plus dogs and birds).
16. You consider Julia Child your hero. (Martha’s actual words: “a mentor.")
17. You love being a grandmother and cherish every moment with your grandchild.
18. You are open to an artificial Christmas tree, as long as it’s beautiful. (This seemed unorthodox for Martha—might it have something to do with her Kmart line of artificial trees?)
19. You make your own eggnog from scratch.
20. You have no plans to retire from reigning over your empire … EVER.
I can check off quite a few of these. But how can you live without Papa Johns.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-69894000874377453942011-09-23T10:29:00.000-07:002011-09-23T10:29:34.292-07:00Are you ready for some football?UVA second home game is tomorrow.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0cTQJZGdZ69XaP-J3DcXdSx8zpSmQnjur9IxFfR4EUascMb7c3iIPFyXMZ7kw6IRE34V45zPYY9gzWBtAB9dve0nhjllBuDi9kzrlomkBx1y8Q6tQKS5QCeR1NpNyT2ca_xjk1BBXA-3/s1600/uva_stadium_transportation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0cTQJZGdZ69XaP-J3DcXdSx8zpSmQnjur9IxFfR4EUascMb7c3iIPFyXMZ7kw6IRE34V45zPYY9gzWBtAB9dve0nhjllBuDi9kzrlomkBx1y8Q6tQKS5QCeR1NpNyT2ca_xjk1BBXA-3/s400/uva_stadium_transportation.jpg" /></a></div>
It's a 3:30pm game so we'll serve 2 meals sometime before and after the game. Here's the menu:
Brunch:
Waffles made on site. (Generator plus waffle maker=fresh waffles)
Maple Bacon
Eggs
"Crack" Potatoes
Dinner:
2 inch porterhouse steaks
Marinated Mushrooms
"Crack" Potatoes
Dessert:
Chocolate Chip Cookie Oreo Brownie Bars
Recipes will follow in the next couple days!!Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-1584439154210393002011-09-19T05:41:00.000-07:002011-09-19T05:41:39.654-07:00Amazing Crockpot Beef StroganoffI found this recipe via Pinterest from <a href="http://thecrockstar.blogspot.com/2009/01/absolute-best-crockpot-beef-stroganoff.html">The Crockstar</a>. It is absolutely delicious!
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3_OnC2cK2cbVEqNuDpdvAfptX3G1hXSvWRoid1rmf0RqldqsIwARzPzdl5dhUn_BdI4C3yHUxCQdnWWekM9Qst7b3JQ6IFh8BdnFRW1MC9tQ22g2kz9_7IF3TyxoWShhLvmNelNoJNPN/s1600/Picture+069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3_OnC2cK2cbVEqNuDpdvAfptX3G1hXSvWRoid1rmf0RqldqsIwARzPzdl5dhUn_BdI4C3yHUxCQdnWWekM9Qst7b3JQ6IFh8BdnFRW1MC9tQ22g2kz9_7IF3TyxoWShhLvmNelNoJNPN/s400/Picture+069.jpg" /></a></div>
2 pounds cubed stew meat
2 cans Condensed Golden Mushroom Soup
1 largish onion diced
2-3-4 tabls of Worcestershire
1/2 water
8 oz of cream cheese
couple of dashes of Garlic Salt
couple dashes of Hot Paprika
In the slow cooker stir in all the ingredients, except the meat AND the Cream Cheese, together. Once combined add the meat and mix together.
Cook on Low for 8 hours. Cut up the cream cheese into cubes just before serving and turn crockpot on high. Stir the cream cheese in until all combined. You might have to put the lid back on and leave for 10 minutes.
Serve over egg noodles.
This is just amazing!
Also if you have not discovered Pinterest, let me know and I will send you an invite.
Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-31930284182821529022011-09-15T10:46:00.000-07:002011-09-15T10:46:00.068-07:00Super Simple Shrimp Etouffee<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdR9K_ClEidsbgwXs_8j7_nN-nZn_rsCaeRRZpNfd089HMjVzrdDtoYzHZYk8hGHv8fBXsQuKALVNrSRkBiuGIH5lV4M7NlWwawMXuanvtUI2PLZpYKl2YC7thnVRQgQqWlyQ7MpF4y6Q/s1600/photo.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdR9K_ClEidsbgwXs_8j7_nN-nZn_rsCaeRRZpNfd089HMjVzrdDtoYzHZYk8hGHv8fBXsQuKALVNrSRkBiuGIH5lV4M7NlWwawMXuanvtUI2PLZpYKl2YC7thnVRQgQqWlyQ7MpF4y6Q/s400/photo.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651903560225837522" /></a><br />I love Etouffee but not the time it takes to make the roux, chop the vegetables.<br /><br />So here is my super simple recipe:<br />1 lb. of shrimp peeled and deveined<br />1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup<br />1 can Golden Mushroom Soup<br />1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (If you want the non-spicy version, use one can of Italian Style Diced Tomatoes)<br /><br />Combine the soups and tomatoes in a skilled and heat until well combined. Add the shrimp and cook until the shrimp are done.<br /><br />Serve over rice.<br /><br />Yummy!!Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-43974313418756479282011-09-13T08:45:00.000-07:002011-09-13T08:48:31.314-07:00The Colors of FallWith the cool nights,chilly mornings and the coming of the harvest moon,fall is here. <br /><br />Pantone has released their Fall 2011 colors. Each year Pantone conducts a survey of NYFW designers to announce what to expect on the mannequins and models starting…now!<br /><br />This is a gorgeous color palette.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcODXSOUo-5brlf_qhiDm0gsM79hoeo3XnZcM-1jubwSIMfusGzml3wWY1bitW5poBZzk7f1XuEjSYJnL4j-sucqAhaYITZGGCylL3iciapGqwkGkk2qgcEZfajz7lpQDoLtQWtFmy3peh/s1600/fallpalette.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcODXSOUo-5brlf_qhiDm0gsM79hoeo3XnZcM-1jubwSIMfusGzml3wWY1bitW5poBZzk7f1XuEjSYJnL4j-sucqAhaYITZGGCylL3iciapGqwkGkk2qgcEZfajz7lpQDoLtQWtFmy3peh/s400/fallpalette.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651871520670596770" /></a>Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-63902982144779195782011-08-26T08:31:00.000-07:002011-08-26T08:31:00.430-07:00A Little Holiday InspirationFor Holiday Decorating and There I am working my way through the 12 days of Christmas. This year is 3 French Hens.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyT77Q3Ocj_7VqYAJ_ImmK4b-dOT_GLT2SY70NRrEsp09NOsUCxS-6MctHieya9OSEd2fIptp2THplxwPA4j-y0btnsBfUHXOlbpCJoLrxCPK0k1640_RXAfT78nUwSTCMQ3c0_2fcdili/s1600/22-threefrenchhens72.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 312px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyT77Q3Ocj_7VqYAJ_ImmK4b-dOT_GLT2SY70NRrEsp09NOsUCxS-6MctHieya9OSEd2fIptp2THplxwPA4j-y0btnsBfUHXOlbpCJoLrxCPK0k1640_RXAfT78nUwSTCMQ3c0_2fcdili/s400/22-threefrenchhens72.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644075403355944002" /></a>
<br />I am struggling to come up with a color scheme. I would rather do "French chic" and not something like red, white and blue.
<br />
<br />Any suggestions??Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-57348591165094061722011-08-23T08:11:00.001-07:002011-08-23T08:18:05.380-07:00Martha Stewart has a New Decorative Paints LineI walked into Michaels this morning to find this.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KjHDexcRw-XiugjkHeFex4VsbW9IeS411gHsQGXhCGPXFwTpSXDxW4-L8rJvDOH_toHz8nr1jgFaVo5_vW4JzozdCzTYKnw7osOMkvRb-mzCDZMi_kKFDhp8lwevcXUBZlcZRCVSEB67/s1600/MS1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KjHDexcRw-XiugjkHeFex4VsbW9IeS411gHsQGXhCGPXFwTpSXDxW4-L8rJvDOH_toHz8nr1jgFaVo5_vW4JzozdCzTYKnw7osOMkvRb-mzCDZMi_kKFDhp8lwevcXUBZlcZRCVSEB67/s400/MS1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644069756376356434" /></a>
<br />New Paints and all the tools to go with it. The paints come in 4 finishes: satin, pearl, high gloss and Martha's famous glitter.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXWD9dfSKp667DLSPLZTWy35UgBGq1yi_T1vJBhiRoM9mvIZmtihjXtunIERMsEZcEJhJxfG5ponXC-TkqSf1R5clqZLxpeWd0Wc4SLKmBDuUAjC5vIRHDbCv4vbjvEd1bFSWFspbzTVK/s1600/MS2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXWD9dfSKp667DLSPLZTWy35UgBGq1yi_T1vJBhiRoM9mvIZmtihjXtunIERMsEZcEJhJxfG5ponXC-TkqSf1R5clqZLxpeWd0Wc4SLKmBDuUAjC5vIRHDbCv4vbjvEd1bFSWFspbzTVK/s400/MS2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644070129782987746" /></a>
<br />The paint works on all surfaces and is made for indoor and outdoor use. So no more buying multiple kinds of paint.
<br />And there are so many tools.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCWGaIW7q2i0I6wJaDo8DVTwRLUDmiUhe01gvEXF6azpWZ4Y4WFZhWkbz7pJ5bLOMsnejyuCBmUZ-AUA1bmifV7rs7vFJIMKECIMLPLXHU8zgIrix2sXxS5WzzllKpeQwZLoocTXq8j6fh/s1600/MS3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCWGaIW7q2i0I6wJaDo8DVTwRLUDmiUhe01gvEXF6azpWZ4Y4WFZhWkbz7pJ5bLOMsnejyuCBmUZ-AUA1bmifV7rs7vFJIMKECIMLPLXHU8zgIrix2sXxS5WzzllKpeQwZLoocTXq8j6fh/s400/MS3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644070518352361010" /></a>
<br />Many of the applicators actually fit on top of the paint bottles.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFc0uZYOzgfnvRKtU6Gk2bVkRPbOTnJ_Q8K08QazTh7Q7IFh6nwQCCpVtjCniQ14UYXEIJw_KE24Bh_7PZjKowq7HTY4HiUxektp_Eov3EdIaYG30NjoAZBDKRlJc7sW0PTlZB3uN0Kq4l/s1600/MS4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFc0uZYOzgfnvRKtU6Gk2bVkRPbOTnJ_Q8K08QazTh7Q7IFh6nwQCCpVtjCniQ14UYXEIJw_KE24Bh_7PZjKowq7HTY4HiUxektp_Eov3EdIaYG30NjoAZBDKRlJc7sW0PTlZB3uN0Kq4l/s400/MS4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644070786989218226" /></a>
<br />
<br />Sheer genius! I cannot wait to see all the amazing crafts that are created with these.
<br />Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-10870805099249300742011-08-19T11:36:00.000-07:002011-08-19T11:51:45.647-07:00The Best College Town in the South<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qYt6Ok0ofoOsDO8HFXgZjkG0BoWzC908eRxE4NgcZ_TqcOIHsJCTiCMF2gn4unN5GJYBLNpz4PDSfEMOjl9sqVINhPYFJq2r9QqMLyMV9V18IsQU3prnxNj605bKVigMHXl8IYPUGvj9/s1600/charlottesville-virginia-l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qYt6Ok0ofoOsDO8HFXgZjkG0BoWzC908eRxE4NgcZ_TqcOIHsJCTiCMF2gn4unN5GJYBLNpz4PDSfEMOjl9sqVINhPYFJq2r9QqMLyMV9V18IsQU3prnxNj605bKVigMHXl8IYPUGvj9/s400/charlottesville-virginia-l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642641036409856722" /></a>
<br />Although I live about an hour south of Charlottesville, at least a little piece of my heart still lives there. Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, Monticello (the home of our third President Thomas Jefferson), vineyards, culture, scenic beauty and many other amenities (One of which is a world class teaching hospital that until this week, I did not realize is an essential).
<br />
<br />Southern Living has named it the Best College Town in the South. You can read the article <a href="http://www.southernliving.com/travel/best-college-towns-00417000074763/page2.html">here</a>.
<br />
<br />If you have never traveled there, it's worth the trip.Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-86587492530543732292011-08-14T12:51:00.000-07:002011-08-14T12:51:00.083-07:00Quote of the Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgda4pIJmBurUdSi1Mt17UqrnyudoH6BZqUHSPvmKM1yLnMnrVTdJSmRqadtY6mz6PiuX4QQqpVcO-YCy3sqNonHybyVT51Kmb0OGH5xJJygKvvTiS9OB9DwORDihpz0qsJx5Kl2j6q1eNg/s1600/river-%25282%2529.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgda4pIJmBurUdSi1Mt17UqrnyudoH6BZqUHSPvmKM1yLnMnrVTdJSmRqadtY6mz6PiuX4QQqpVcO-YCy3sqNonHybyVT51Kmb0OGH5xJJygKvvTiS9OB9DwORDihpz0qsJx5Kl2j6q1eNg/s400/river-%25282%2529.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638949231476018770" /></a>
<br />When summer gathers up her robes of glory,
<br />And, like a dream, glides away.
<br />~ Sarah Helen WhitmanAngela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4851550932521970507.post-3435493327769501642011-08-12T12:29:00.000-07:002011-08-12T12:29:00.329-07:00Keys to My KingdomI got the idea for this from the cross stitch design from Rosewood Manor called Keys to the Kingdom. I hope to one day stitch that and have it hang beside this piece. Someday......
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElB8E2JodIWAMP6M_ZpzhMoQC_YF0uYcnlZmagpIm0bocBSgiaDJzmsZ58EGd_1yhOyVwEcxiFuM9FYPp-vXcrp0m6hKt-ppRz6gFtNa1rP4lJ9VyvUK25LDKgUY7WvM9DDojyEyPbrnL/s1600/rwkeys.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 321px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElB8E2JodIWAMP6M_ZpzhMoQC_YF0uYcnlZmagpIm0bocBSgiaDJzmsZ58EGd_1yhOyVwEcxiFuM9FYPp-vXcrp0m6hKt-ppRz6gFtNa1rP4lJ9VyvUK25LDKgUY7WvM9DDojyEyPbrnL/s400/rwkeys.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638941211280261426" /></a>
<br />
<br />I took a 12 x 12 canvas and covered it with burlap.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAbMmqZ_21K3zwA_g-jmu07-Xrx0OvMs7yI_LBxJhtkANQLClSYOsFbI309aAhQ3zVtjxYpb9h4fbo45TeXd9ZPdZ_JsHuL4H7ptAU1DcpkulHkiIu8CcDiFq2oYL6NwxfYTLYmrjqm7-/s1600/IMG_0458.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 307px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAbMmqZ_21K3zwA_g-jmu07-Xrx0OvMs7yI_LBxJhtkANQLClSYOsFbI309aAhQ3zVtjxYpb9h4fbo45TeXd9ZPdZ_JsHuL4H7ptAU1DcpkulHkiIu8CcDiFq2oYL6NwxfYTLYmrjqm7-/s400/IMG_0458.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638941678057306098" /></a>
<br />I used Modge Podge on the front and then stapled the fabric on the back.
<br />
<br />I then looked for old keys at antique stores and found they were $5-$10 a piece. Luckily, I found these keys in the scrapbook section at AC Moore. $5 a package and they are metal.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-D3L5_OCUPXWaBH4ZkNO8JX1s3nRY-i2oUrh8Rk6Azk7ffoMoS9xjAa1DHhLM3vPuU_OSrk70gh7mlFBPUzOJsN4iujqho-h8eqZvTYF4bZis4s9J_fOzqTPOuX678j08ynQKqvtUak45/s1600/IMG_0461.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 237px; height: 188px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-D3L5_OCUPXWaBH4ZkNO8JX1s3nRY-i2oUrh8Rk6Azk7ffoMoS9xjAa1DHhLM3vPuU_OSrk70gh7mlFBPUzOJsN4iujqho-h8eqZvTYF4bZis4s9J_fOzqTPOuX678j08ynQKqvtUak45/s400/IMG_0461.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638944578157120850" /></a>
<br />I then positioned the keys and used E6000 to attach them to the burlap.
<br />
<br />Here is the finished piece.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSb_V3kII5BzcDX5Mpt2jmhf0NFdMBPO6YF2vlrFCAp5LgSAusUhCbnMESNIGXXzqM-JGfdeMqlLmh1F-hb622WUgSjyhZf0jsJuTWJmxH1zAS5LFb4lzri87jAkhUOabsrPb07u95xoZ/s1600/IMG_0469.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 388px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSb_V3kII5BzcDX5Mpt2jmhf0NFdMBPO6YF2vlrFCAp5LgSAusUhCbnMESNIGXXzqM-JGfdeMqlLmh1F-hb622WUgSjyhZf0jsJuTWJmxH1zAS5LFb4lzri87jAkhUOabsrPb07u95xoZ/s400/IMG_0469.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638945505845278914" /></a>
<br />
<br />Maybe someday I'll get the cross stitch piece done, but then again I have a whole drawer of finished pieces that need to be framed, turned into ornaments etc.
<br />
<br />
<br />Angela Hamiltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01475603941585876131noreply@blogger.com0