Marie's horrible, rotten, no good day . . .

Source: thecolorsofmymind.tumblr.com via Marie on Pinterest

Have you ever had one of those days??? You know the kind I mean . . . the ones where nothing seems to go right. I had one of those days yesterday . . . or at least it started out that way.

First of all I couldn't get the printer to come on. Nothing I did worked. It was most annoying because I had wanted to photo copy some reading pages for my student, but alas . . . had to skip that idea. (Todd was able to get it working eventually, but not in time.)

Then I decided that I was going to bake some chocolate chip muffins for a pot luck lunch that I had been going to attend. I have a fab recipe for chocolate chip muffins. They are the best. I never have to use paper liners either, they always pop out like a dream. Anyways, I mixed the batter together, gave my nonstick muffin tin a good spray and popped them into the oven just prior to my reading student's arrival. Sounds good in theory, right???

Source: mousiemasala.tumblr.com via Marie on Pinterest

The oven had been all pre-heated and ready to go when I popped them into it. I went to check on them about 15 minutes later and guess what??? When I had closed the oven door, it hadn't exactly clicked shut and so had turned itself off . . . and the muffins had done their initial rise when I stuck them into the oven but, as the oven had cooled down . . . so had they. I turned the oven back on and thought they would be ok. WRONG. This initial prebake and cool down must have done something to the chocolate chips because do you think I could get those babies out of the pan when they were done??? NO WAY! They came out in bits. I actually had to scrape them out. The birds ate well last night.

Then the missionaries called and asked if we could go with them to help with a service project at a single sister's house. We said sure. We got ready to go and when they drove up, Todd went out to greet them. I am always a bit later going out the door, coz . . . well, I'm a woman! (No other excuse needed!) I went out the door pulling it shut behind myself, not realizing that Todd didn't have his key's with him. I just assumed as he had already gone out that he did. WRONG! His keys were in the house, and I didn't have my keys with me as I assumed he had his. Our front door is one that once it closes, you cannot open it up without a key. It's a security feature.

The service went ok. I really enjoyed getting to know this sister and her children a bit better, but I couldn't help fretting a bit while we were there, wondering how we were going to be able to get back inside our house. Mitzie was inside and I was worried that we might have to wait a long time for a lock smith to come, etc.

Source: elmwoodcemetery.org via Marie on Pinterest

Then Todd remembered that he had buried a key in a plastic bag in the front garden . . . the one that the gas men had dug up a few weeks back along with our daffodils. We used to keep a little spade out there to dig it up with if need be, but someone had stolen it months ago. (It is amazing what some people will steal!) Anyways, when we got home he found a metal stake and started looking for the key. A bit like looking for a needle in a haystack. He had just gone next door to ask if they had a small shovel he could borrow. I said a little prayer and then I tried looking, using a different method of moving the skewer in the mud. Guess what??? I found it!!! WHEW! Crisis averted and we were "In Like Flyn!"

The rest of the day was quite uneventful in comparison . . . really. Thank goodness! I'd had enough excitement for one day. My mom always said things happened in threes and yesterday proved her right. Sometimes it's good things and sometimes it's petty annoyances . . . but a positive person would be able to pick out some good from the annoyances and I did.

Source: funerary-mass.tumblr.com via Marie on Pinterest

One, we discovered exactly what to do if the printer acts up like that again. Two, I learned that I should always make sure that the oven door shuts properly when I use it and that it hasn't bounced open again. (The light on should have been a clue to me that something was amiss. DOH!) Three . . . even when you think you are never, ever going to be able to find something . . . like a key in the mud of a garden which has been turned topsie turvy . . . a little prayer can result in a miracle . . . and a found key. Our prayers are always answered . . . even the ones which we think are inconsequential and unimportant in the grand scheme of things.

Four that even horrible, rotten, no good and impossibly annoying days can turn out to be blessings in disguise. How can that ever be a bad thing??? It can't!

Have a great Thursday everyone!

I was quite relieved a few years ago when Delia Smith came out and said that even she cheated from time to time. I think most cooks have little ways of making things a bit easier and quicker from time to time. As long as taste isn't compromised . . . I just don't see the harm in the occasional cheat . . . like this recipe. Just make sure you use good quality fruit fillings with lots of fruit in them and you'll be ok.



*Cheater's Apple and Cherry Crumble*
Serves 8
Printable Recipe

This makes a large dessert, just perfect for taking to a pot luck! It's delicious and easy to make.

1 tin (21 ounce) apple pie filling (use a fruity one)
1 tin (21 ounce) cherry pie filling (again use a fruity one)
1 tsp apple pie spice )If your apple pie filling is a spicy oen, omit this ingredient)
12 flat style granola bars (ones like Nature's Valley that come two in a pack)
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup sliced almonds

Preheat the oven to 180*C/350*F/ gas mark 4. Spritz a 2 quart baking dish with cooking spray set aside.

Stir together the pie fillings in a bowl, along with the apple pie spice, if using. Spread this mixture in the baking dish.

Place the granola bars into a zip lock baggie and give them a good bash with the side of a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. Dump this into a bowl. Stir in the flour and butter, mixing all together until crumbly. Stir in the almonds. Sprinkle this mixture over top of the filling mixture, spreading it out evenly.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the centre is thorougly heated. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or cold with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream if desired! (Or Todd's favourite, warm custard)



Over in The English Kitchen today I am indulging myself in Noodles and Cabbage.

February thoughts . . .

Source: crushculdesac.tumblr.com via Marie on Pinterest

"Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle ... a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl. And the anticipation nurtures our dream."
- Barbara Winkler

There is something about the word . . . February . . . that stirs the heart with an irrepressible joy, however irrational that may be.

Arrows of rain may fall . . . sharp and cold from a wintery sky.

The doors of the North are not yet barred to the possibility of snow.

Source: countingyourblessings.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

But . . . once the month of January slips off our calendar . . . nothing can ever be quite the same again. Little ghostly snowdrops flutter in the grass.

This year . . . the sharp spikes of daffodils can already be seen poking up through the ground, and the camelia bush by the front door is covered with pink tinged buds of blossom . . . just waiting to burst into a riot of colour. It seems that they do not know what month it is, and the mild air that was January has fooled them somewhat . . .

Source: reverberaquerida.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

There is a blue light which lingers on the edge of the lengthening days, and the voice of the February's thrush comes trickling down the wind . . . the promise of sweeter, warmer days to come.

Soon . . . it seems to say . . . soon . . . but not . . . just . . . yet.



With the threat of snow across most of the country yesterday, I was in a very wintery mood and so I painted this little girl with her offering of a cute little snowman. That's the most snow we get over here for the most part . . . just enough to make a little snowman, and only ever very rarely enough for a biggun! We still don't have any snow here in Chester, but we did have a spot of freezing rain yesterday.

I'm all ready for my lesson that I have to teach this morning. I was a bit worried that I wouldn't sleep last night because of nerves, but I did manage to sleep, even if I did have quite a few crazy dreams. That will teach me to watch crazy stuff on the telly before I go to bed!

My left knee is still very sore after the shot I had in it on Friday, but I am hopeful that will soon pass and it will be a bit better. My right hip is popping now . . . I have never had any injections in my hips yet. Not sure that I want to. Todd has decided he is going to come with me to Canada to go to my Daughter's wedding in July as we are not sure I could manage everything by myself. I am relieved to say the least. We can't really afford it, but we'll just have to do what we can. I cannot miss the wedding, and I cannot go alone.

Having said all that I must dash off as I just remembered a few little things I need to do before we go to church. I will leave you with a tasty recipe from my Marie's Muses archives . . . some delicious Vanilla Glazed Apple Bars! Moist and scrummilicious!



*Vanilla Glazed Apple Bars*
Makes 32
Printable Recipe

Moist and delicious apple bars topped with a sweet vanilla glaze.

2 medium cooking apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped (about 1 3/4 cups)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large free range egg, beaten
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp soda
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
14 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped nuts

For the Vanilla Glaze:
1 1/2 cups of icing sugar, sifted
3 TBS butter, softened
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 to 2 TBS milk

Preheat the oven to 180*C/350*F/ gas mark 4. Butter a 13 by 9 by 2 inch baking pan. Set aside.

Stir together the apples and sugar in a bowl. Let stand for 10 minutes. Stir in the egg and vanilla. Stir in the remaining ingredients until smooth. Fold in the raisins and nuts.. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 20 10 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Spread with the vanilla glaze while warm. For bars, cut into 8 rows by 4 rows.

To make the glaze, mix all the ingredients together until smooth and spreadable.



Over in The English Kitchen today, Valentine Berry Cutie Pies!

The Simple Woman's Day book . . .

FOR TODAY, January 31st, 2012...

Outside My Window...
All is calm, and dark, and very cold. No snow as of yet, but I heard that they got some down South yesterday. Our Camelia bush by the front door is filled with buds that have already turned pink. We've had quite a mild winter so far this year.

I am thinking...
I didn't do so well at the Dr's yesterday. I went for my knees again, hoping to be able to get another cortizone shot in each, but came away confused and more than a little miffed. The Doctors in our local surgery changed frequently for some reason. In any case yesterday the Dr I saw told me that I was only entitled to have two shots in each joint for my whole lifetime, and yet the time before I had been told I was entitled to 3 per year per joint. What is the truth? Also the previous Dr had given me a prescription to have filled for the shots and I ended up with a whole bag full to bring back to the surgery myself when I went for my shot. There had to be at least 20 vials in the bag if not more. He used one and kept the rest. This Dr yesterday gave me a prescription for ONE vial and the chemist themselves will be sending it to the surgery before Friday. Sounds a bit strange to me.

I am thankful for...
We were told yesterday that they won't have to turn off our gas again. THANK GOODNESS!!! It was pretty cold in here yesterday. The works are ongoing on the street and it will probably be about 8 weeks until we can park in the drive again, but at least our house is done! ☺

From the kitchen...
Not a heck of a lot. Sometimes that is a good thing.

I am wearing...
Pink and yellow jim jams and my robe and slippers.

I am creating...
I have nothing on the table at the moment, which is unsual for me. I am busy getting my lesson organized for Sunday. There were some very good suggestions given by you all last week and I am inspired. I think I've got a handle on it now!! Thanks!

I am going...
I have the daily reading lessons and then I have my Presidency Meeting on Wednesday Evening and then on Friday an appointment for one shot in one knee. ( I have only had one shot in my left knee so far so am allowed to have one more. *grumble *grumble)

I am reading...



Once Upon A Time There Was You, by Elizabeth Berg

Even on their wedding day, John and Irene sensed that they were about to make a mistake. Years later, divorced, dating other people, and living in different parts of the country, they seem to have nothing in common—nothing except the most important person in each of their lives: Sadie, their spirited eighteen-year-old daughter. Feeling smothered by Irene and distanced from John, Sadie is growing more and more attached to her new boyfriend, Ron. When tragedy strikes, Irene and John come together to support the daughter they love so dearly. What takes longer is to remember how they really feel about each other. Elizabeth Berg’s immense talent shines in this unforgettable novel about the power of love, the unshakeable bonds of family, and the beauty of second chances.

As you know I am a real fan of Elizabeth Berg. I just love all of her books and this one is no exception. I am loving this one too!! I only have about 2 more chapters left to read and guess what I have lined up next?? Yep, another one by Elizabeth Berg.

I am hoping...
That this shot works well on Friday and that my left knee improves at least. I am very disappointed by this all. (Can you tell??) It's not that I loooove having shots, but the last ones improved my situation so very much. I had about 6 great months in which I had a lot more mobility and now I am back to square one again . . .

I am hearing...
Nothing much. Mitzie is snoring away on the sofa. The keys are tapping. All is quiet outside . . . the birds are waking up so a bit of chirping and the odd car that drives by. A very normal, ordinary, everyday start to the day.

Around the house...

Source: petitemichellelouise.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

Don't you just love this????? It's like shabby chic, French country. I love the colours and I adore the lettering. I think it is just beautiful.

I am looking forward to ...
Giving my lesson on Sunday. I sure hope that the ladies get a lot out of it.

If I could change one thing it would be ...
I am going to be selfish today and say that I would make my knees all better again. I hate being selfish, but there you have it.

One of my favourite things...
Is being able to share my feelings and thoughts with you. Daft as it sounds, you are all so very real to me and I value your opinions and thoughts too. We may never have met in person for the most part, but you all feel like very close and valued friends to me.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
A bit of work . . . a bit of play . . . and everything in between!! Not a heck of a lot really.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Source: weheartit.com via Marie on Pinterest

You meet a friend, your face brightens . . . you have struck gold.
~Kassia

a bit of a cheeky picture I know, but these gals just look like the best of friends. There is an easy camaraderie there. They just "get" each other. I have the feeling that they end each others sentences and know everything there is to know about the other . . . that they share everything . . . all their thoughts, their hopes, their dreams, their sorrows, their joy. Such a friend is a treasure beyond measure. Truly.

As a closing thought I would like to leave you with this:

“You cannot kindle a fire in any other heart unless you have one burning in your own."
~Harold B. Lee

I just love this . . . it is so true. Enthusiasm is contageous.

And there you have it . . . my day book for this week. Don't forget to hop on over to the Simple Woman to check out the other day book entries! (Or better yet, do a simple day book entry yourself! It's not that hard and I am betting you would enjoy it!

Here is an oldie but a goodie from an old Pillsbury booklet that I purchased back in 1991. There's a lot of water under the bridge since then, I can tell you! This booklet is worn and tattered and torn, but remains one of my favourites. I have stolen the picture from the booklet too, because in all truth . . . Todd hates chocolate and there is no way I want to ever eat 20 servings of this all by myself. It makes a great dessert to bring to a potluck meal though, or for when you are having a large gathering at home.



*Chocolate Bread Pudding with a Raspberry Cherry Sauce*
Serves 20
Printable Recipe

Rich chocolate soufflee like bread pudding. Delicious!

For the pudding:
1 cup of semi sweet chocolate chips
1 cup whipping cream
2/3 cup firmly packed soft light brown sugar
5 eggs, separated
1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces
1 tsp vanilla
4 cups soft bread cubes

For the Sauce:
2 TBS sugar
4 tsp cornstarch
1 (16-oz) tin of pitted dark sweet cherries, drained and syrup reserved
1 (10-oz) packet of frozen raspberries in syrup, thawed, drained, and syrup reserved

Preheat the oven to 180*C/350*F/gas mark 4. Butter a 12 by 8 inch baking dish.

Combine the chocolate chips and cream in a large saucepan. Heat over low heat until the chips are melted, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1/3 cup of the brown sugar. Add the egg yolks, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Continue to cook until slightly thickened. Add the butter and vanilla. Stir until smooth. remove from the heat and stir in the bread.

Beat the egg whites in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in the remaining brown sugar, beating at the highest speed until stiff peaks form. Fold this mixture into the chocolate mixture. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Set the baking dish into a pan of hot water which comes 1/2 way up the sides of the baking dish. (I put the pan in the oven and set the baking dish into it and then add the hot water, as it is difficult to move it once it is filled and the baking dish is in it.) Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the centre is set.

To make the sauce, combine the sugar and the cornstard. Gradually stir in the reserved liquids from the fruits. Cook over medium heat until the mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly. Cool slightly, then stir in the fruit. Serve over the warm bread pudding.

Store any leftover pudding and sauce in the refrigerator.


Cooking in The English Kitchen today, a delicious Oven Hash!

Family togetherness

Source: google.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Laying in bed last night as I was waiting to fall asleep my mind went back to a particular memory that I have of a special time spent with my children. For a few minutes I was back there with them and it was just lovely.

We had recently moved to a small town in the Northern part of Southern Ontario and my husband had gone on a golfing trip to Myrtle Beach with his buddies. It was in the early Spring and we were having some really bad weather. Rain, rain and even more rain, accompanied by high winds. It was early in the evening and all of a sudden the power went off. I quickly gathered up all the candles in the house while we decided what to do.

We waited for a few minutes, thinking that the power would be coming back on shortly, but alas . . . it did not, and so we settled in for an evening without electricity. My eldest daughter was particularly upset as it meant she would not be able to watch her favourite show that night, and that was really important to her . . . but after a while even she settled in. We decided to play Monopoly.

Source: jensownroad.blogspot.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Monopoly by candlelight. It was a lot of fun and I think everyone really enjoyed themselves. We sat around the table in the flickering light and without the distraction of television or telephone we had a really great time together as a family. I can't remember who won, if anyone . . . only that we were happy.

After the game, we decided we were going to camp out together in the living room that night instead of going off into our various rooms to sleep. We dragged a few mattresses into the living room and made up some beds for everyone. I think I slept on the couch. We spent another few hours chatting and singing and telling stories until one by one we all fell asleep. The wind was raging outside, the thunder was clapping loudly . . . but we were together and that somehow quelled any fears that any of us might have had.

It was only in the light of the next day that we learned that a tornado had passed by very closely to where we were living. Thankfully we had not been directly affected, other than having lost our power. We took a drive out into the countryside to see the damage done and I remember it looking as if a big giant hand had just reached down snapping off trees like they were twigs etc. One elderly man had actually been plucked from his yard and set down in another place, and lived to tell the tale. We saw a house with no roof . . . but thankfully most of the damage had been done only to trees and such.

I was very thankful that we had not known what was really going on . . . had we done so, I think we have spent a very different night together . . . but as they say . . . "Ignorance is Bliss," and in our bliss we instead built a lovely memory together. A memory that I treasure. I lay there thinking about it last night and I smiled into the dark with the warmth of my thoughts and I wondered if they remembered that evening with as much fondness as I do . . .

Source: Uploaded by user via Nicole on Pinterest

Far too often we allow the distractions of modern life take us away from the things that are truly important. We spend our evenings watching the television or on the computer . . . instead of communicating with each other or building family memories together. I think sometimes it is a good thing to turn it all off and to just be together. In the olden days people had to entertain themselves . . . and would often spend evenings together singing songs, telling stories, etc.

In our church we have a practice of having a Family Home Evening on one night each week. The normal night designated for this is Monday evenings, although it does vary from family to family as a result of working schedules etc. This is a night where we are encouraged to do something as a family, something that will help to bring us closer together, and to strengthen family ties and love for each other. It may have a spiritual theme at times and be an opportunity to learn something new, or to draw closer to our Heavenly Father . . . at others it may simply be an evening where we do something fun together.

Source: weheartit.com via 'Defne on Pinterest

All families . . . from the large to the very small, and everything in between, we are encouraged to set this special time aside. In my Ward there is a group of single adults who get together to do something as a group with each other, as they have no family at home to share it with. Todd and I are just two . . . but we are a family, and even we do something special together on Monday evenings. More often than not we will read the scriptures together or watch an uplifting film from our church. We talk and we pray and we just enjoy a few hours together without the distractions of the world. It's a pretty special time.

Family togetherness . . . it's a good thing.


This is an old favourite from my Big Blue Binder. I expect that it was copied out of a magazine once upon a time, although I can't remember which one anymore. It is delicious! The pear centre makes it quite unsual. Everyone loves it!



*Walnut-Pear Sour Cream Coffee Cake*
Makes 12 servings
Printable Recipe

A beautifully moist coffee cake with a tasty layer of pear running through it's centre.


1 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup soft light brown sugar, packed
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup butter
1/3 cup plain flour
2 medium pears, peeled, cored and sliced (approx. 2 cups)
2 tsp lemon juice
1 3/4 cup of plain flour
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 large free range eggs
1 (8-oz) carton sour cream

Preheat the oven to 180*C/350*F/ gas mark 4. Grease a 9-inch spring form pan or a 9-inch square baking pan. Set aside.

Combine the walnuts, brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. In another small bowl, rub the butter into the 1/3 cup of flour until crumbly. Stir in 3/4 cup of the nut mixture. Set this aside. (This will be the topping.) Reserve the remainder of the nut mixture.

Toss the pear slices with lemon juice and set aside.

Combine the 1 3/4 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

Beat the 1/2 cup softened butter in a large bowl for about 30 seconds. Beat in the sugar and vanilla. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the flour mixture, alternately, with the sour cream, beating on low after each addition until combined.

Spread 2/3 of the batter in the prepared pan. Lay the pear slices on top and then sprinkle them with the reserved nut mixture. Spread the remainder of the batter over top to cover pears. Sprinkle with the topping mixture over all.

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing the sides. Allow to cool for half an hour before serving. Serve warm.



Over in The English Kitchen today I am cooking a Chicken Taco Salad, (low fat).

“We build deep and loving family relationships by doing simple things together, like family dinner and family home evening and by just having fun together. In family relationships love is really spelled t-i-m-e, time. Taking time for each other is the key for harmony at home. We talk with, rather than about, each other. We learn from each other, and we appreciate our differences as well as our commonalities. We establish a divine bond with each other as we approach God together through family prayer, gospel study, and Sunday worship.”
― Dieter F. Uchtdorf

The Simple Woman's Day book . . .

FOR TODAY, January 24th, 2012...

Outside My Window...
All is calm, and dark, and very wet. The calm makes a change from all the wind we have had lately. Our fence along the side of our front garden blew down yet again. Whoever put it up, all those years ago, never put in cement posts or anything, so all the wood that was put into the ground has rotted away, making it very unstable. Something for the Landlord to take care of when he returns from Ireland in March.

I am thinking...
I do so enjoy writing on my blog each morning. It is such an integral part of each day for me. It helps me to gather my thoughts for the day, or work out things that are preying on my mind. On the first Sunday in February I am teaching in Relief Society. The lesson is supposed to be on all the resources we have as Latter Day Saints to help us when we perhaps have to give a Sacrament Talk, or a lesson, or are troubled etc. I am really struggling with it. I know all the resources, but it is finding a way to get it across to the class in an interesting manner, which will involve my students that I am struggling with. Nobody wants to just sit there and listen. A good lesson is one which invites participation . . . and I feel a bit like I am banging my head against the wall with this one! Any suggestions???

I am thankful for...
My knees are beginning to act up again. Grrr . . . I think it is time for some more cortizone shots. I am thankful though that they have behaved for as long as they have. That has been a real blessing to me over these past 6 months.

From the kitchen...
There are leftover muffins and cookies. I need to give some away. Anybody want some? Would that I could!

I am wearing...
Pink jim jams and my robe. I am beginning to realize that I have a LOT of pink in my wardrobe. I never thought I was a pink girl much, but it seems that I am!

I am creating...
I have nothing on the table at the moment. Most unsual for me, but I have been working hard to get ready for our Relief Society Extra Meeting which will be on this Thursday and then the one for February which follows close on January's heels! I have been making little gift bags for January one, which is entitled Chicken Soup for the Soul. I also have to make a big pot of chicken soup on Thursday, plus a vegetable one for any vegetarians. The February one is going to be based on Love and so I have been researching some Valentine themed crafts and such. There are some really amazing ideas out there . . .

Source: flickr.com via Marie on Pinterest

Things like Valentine Cake Pops! Aren't they pretty???

Source: howaboutorange.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

Lovely Heart Garlands for decorations!

Source: tinywhitedaisies.tumblr.com via Marie on Pinterest

Beautiful wreaths to decorate and more treats and cards etc. than you can shake a stick at! The hard part will be on deciding what I am going to use!!

I am going...
I have an appointment for a haircut this afternoon, plus I have to cut Todd's hair. I have my daily reading lessons of course, and then on Thursday morning I am going Visit Teaching, then there is the RS Activity on Thursday night and we are taking Mitzie to be groomed on Friday morning. We had tried a different groomer last time, one that was closer to where we live. We'd been taking her to her breeder since we began taking her to be groomed, but it is rather far away in Neston. The one we took her to here in Chester before Christmas made a real mess of it. I don't think she was used to doing Cocker Spaniels at all. So now we are going back to Neston with our tail between our legs. I am dreading it . . . they have a lot to fix up.

I am reading...



Once Upon A Time There Was You, by Elizabeth Berg

Even on their wedding day, John and Irene sensed that they were about to make a mistake. Years later, divorced, dating other people, and living in different parts of the country, they seem to have nothing in common—nothing except the most important person in each of their lives: Sadie, their spirited eighteen-year-old daughter. Feeling smothered by Irene and distanced from John, Sadie is growing more and more attached to her new boyfriend, Ron. When tragedy strikes, Irene and John come together to support the daughter they love so dearly. What takes longer is to remember how they really feel about each other. Elizabeth Berg’s immense talent shines in this unforgettable novel about the power of love, the unshakeable bonds of family, and the beauty of second chances.

As you know I am a real fan of Elizabeth Berg. I just love all of her books and this one is no exception. I am loving this one too!!

I am hoping...
We went to the shops yesterday to buy groceries. Everything seems to be getting more and more expensive. For instance I remember buying a certain brand of tinned vegetables only last week and they were on offer for 2/£1. This week the same ones were on offer at 2/£1.29!! That's an increase of 29 pence in one week! Outrageous! I am hoping that the Government can soon get a handle on this economy and that things will improve, although . . . as we all know . . . once stores and shops get away with charging a higher price for things, they never ever go back down again to what they were . . .

I am hearing...
Nothing much. Mitzie is eating her breakfast in the kitchen. The keys are tapping. All is quiet outside . . . the birds are waking up so a bit of chirping and the odd car that drives by. A very normal ordinary start to the day.

Around the house...

Source: nuit-artdecor.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

Don't you just love this idea??? Although I am not fond of the colour, isn't this just the most fabulous idea for a Kitchen Island/Baking Station, etc.!!!! Of course my home is too small for one of these. You can barely turn around in the kitchen for hitting something or knocking something over, but a gal can dream can she not???

I am looking forward to ...
Thursday evening. It is always a lot of fun to get together with the ladies from church!

If I could change one thing it would be ...
That someone would invent self cleaning, self ironing, self putting away clothes! lol Don't think that is going to happen for some reason!

One of my favourite things...
Is cuddling with Mitzie. She is so loving and affectionate. Of course we just adore her. I can never get enough of cuddling her.



I know she does look rather a bit like a snob . . . but she's not. She's a little softie with a HUGE heart and would love to lick you to pieces, given the chance!

A few plans for the rest of the week...
A bit of work . . . a bit of play . . . and everything in between!! There is NO rest for the wicked!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Source: bravegirlsclub.com via Marie on Pinterest

The greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions, and not on our circumstances. We carry the seeds of the one or othe other about with us in our minds wherever we go.
~Martha Washington (1731-1802)

I am a firm believer in miracles which are brought about from faith and positive thought. Miracles happen every day . . . and not just for the chosen few, but for anyone who has the eyes and the heart to recognize them and seek them out.

As a closing thought I would like to leave you with this:

“Because love is the great commandment, it ought to be at the center of all and everything we do in our own family, in our Church callings, and in our livelihood. Love is the healing balm that repairs rifts in personal and family relationships. It is the bond that unites families, communities, and nations. Love is the power that initiates friendship, tolerance, civility, and respect. It is the source that overcomes divisiveness and hate. Love is the fire that warms our lives with unparalleled joy and divine hope. Love should be our walk and our talk.”
― Dieter F. Uchtdorf

I just love all the words of President Uchtdorf, don't you? I can never get enough of them.

And there you have it . . . my day book for this week. Don't forget to hop on over to the Simple Woman to check out the other day book entries! (Or better yet, do a simple day book entry yourself! It's not that hard and I am betting you would enjoy it!

I have a recipe here today from my Marie's Muses archive. I remember baking this same cobbler for the nephew of the people I worked for down South. He was on his travels and had stopped by for a few days to wash some clothes, rest and visit with family. I remember thinking he was such a nice young man. I know my boss was not overly fond of him, but I did like him. He was nice and most appreciative of anything anyone did for him. He got lost picking blackberries in the hedgerows one night and Todd had to get his flashlight and go rescue him one night while he was there. I baked him this lovely Blackberry Cobbler with his pickings and he really enjoyed it. You know . . . it doesn't take a lot to make people happy . . . you only need to show that you care.



*Blackberry Cobbler*
Serves 9 - 12
Printable Recipe

This wonderful version of blackberry cobbler is quite unusual in that you make a batter first for the blackberries to sit on. They don’t. They sink down into it and make a luscious and delicious filling that will have you coming back for seconds. The yummy streusel topping is chock full of crunchy nuts. This truly is the best!

½ cup of butter, melted
1 ½ cups caster sugar
1 ¾ cups plain flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 cup milk
24 ounces blackberries (fresh or frozen)
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar

TOPPING:
1 ¾ cup light brown sugar
¾ cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
1 cup plain flour
1/3 cup butter, melted

Pre-heat the oven to 180*C/350*F/ gas mark 4. Place the first amount of melted butter in a 9 X 13 inch glass dish and set aside.

Mix together the 1 ½ cup caster sugar, flour and baking powder. Add the milk and whisk lightly together until smooth. Pour over the melted butter in the baking dish.

Put the blackberries and the 1 ¼ cups of the granulated sugar into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil. Pour over the top of the batter in the baking dish and place in the pre-heated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or so until the batter begins to brown.

In the meantime make the topping. Whisk together the brown sugar and flour. Stir in the chopped nuts and the melted butter, mixing until crumbly.

Once the batter has begun to brown, remove from the oven. Sprinkle the topping over top and return to the oven to bake for a further 15 to 20 minutes or until it is nice and bubbly and the topping is nicely browned.

Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Serve warm with some vanilla ice cream if desired. Custard and pouring cream also go very well with this, or nothing at all, which is how Todd likes it.



Over in The English Kitchen today, a delicious batch of Popina Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Sleep garden . . . sleep . . .

Source: flickr.com via Marie on Pinterest

We have had heavy frosts the past three mornings . . . all the garden covered as if by a magic brush, each leaf and errant petal, fooled into blooming far too soon by an overly mild winter thus far . . . tinged with tiny crystals, so very pretty.

The garden sleeps now. No splash of colour stains the fallow mould. The trees are stark, the hedges bare . . . the air all damp and cold. It is as if nature, on the quiet, has spread a quilt of crystal ice over all . . . as if to cover and protect the life that hides below . . .

Source: etsy.com via Melissa on Pinterest

How very still it is. No sound, save that of the odd car or bus which passes, disturbs the silence of the day. No sign or hint revealing what lays beneath the frozen clay . . . oh bulbs and roots and seeds from which will come at Winter's close a flurry of bloom . . . flames of gold and crimson . . . dreams of ivory and rose . . . the lavender and pinks and blues.

It seems like a miracle at the moment and doesn't seem possible . . . yet the Camellia is covered with buds, just waiting for the warmth of the April sun to burst out in colour . . . and here and there a snowdrop nods it's tiny white head . . . a tiny promise of what's to come.

"Lone Flower, hemmed in with snows, and white as they
But hardier far, once more I see thee bend
Thy forehead, as if fearful to offend,
Like an unbidden guest."
~Wordsworth

Source: shellsonthebeach.tumblr.com via Joni on Pinterest

Sleep garden . . . sleep. Rest in repose. These are the days of healing peace for all of us. For though the cold is bitter and the wild wind blows . . . there are joys to compensate for fog and frost and sleet. The world of firelight and books is cosy and comforting. Sleep garden . . . sleep.





Now that she has received it, I can show you the Baptism piece that I did for a little girl who was recently Baptised. She has the original piece, but this is the scan that I used to make her cards. There was a full sized picture, the original, with her full name, birth date and Baptism Date on it and then a bundle of cards which were exactly as above for her to use as thank you cards, etc. That is the nearest temple to where they live in the picture and that is the Baptism Dress that she wore on the day. I love doing these Baptism Commission pieces. They are really special to me and a wonderful keepsake for the recipient of their special day.

We are off into town today to pay a bill. I dare say we will have a frosted journey! It is very cold and wintery, although they do say it will become milder as the week goes on and with that will come . . . what else but rain! Whatever you are going to get up to this day, stay safe and warm. Go with God . . .

This has to be my all time favourite cake recipe. It's a lovely version of a Victorian Sponge filled with raspberries and baked, then filled with clotted cream and more raspberries to serve, covered in a sweet drizzle and garnished with sugar frosted rose petals(optional). It is a cake that you bake when you want to pull out all the stops for sure!!



*Golden Jubilee Cake*
Serves 12
Printable Recipe

This delicious Victorian sponge type of cake was developed in the Queen’s Jubilee year. It’s lovely and moist with a delicious clotted cream and raspberry filling. The perfect “tea party” cake.

6 ounces golden castor sugar (3/4 cup)
(Can use regular caster sugar with no problems)
(Caster sugar is fine granulated sugar, I think it is called fruit sugar in North America)
6 ounces butter, softened (3/4 cup)
4 large free range eggs, separated
4 ounces self rising flour (1 cup)
1 tsp baking powder
4 ounces ground almonds (1 1/3 cup)
3 to 5 drops almond essence
1 cup fresh raspberries

FOR THE FILLING:
1-227g container of clotted cream (about 1 cup)
1 cup fresh raspberries

FOR THE TOPPING:
2 - 3 ounces golden castor sugar (1/4 to 1/2 cup approx.)
1 egg white, lightly beaten to a froth
4 ounces icing sugar (scant cup)
pesticide free rose petals

Make the frosted rose petals the day before. Separate the petals and spread the castor sugar over a plate. Holding one petal at a time, lightly paint both sides with egg white. (I used tweezers to hold the petals) Spoon sugar over it, then using tweezers, shake off the excess. Dry on parchment paper for a day. (Use only pesticide free roses)

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Butter two 8-inch round cake tins and line their bases with parchment paper. Tip the sugar into a mixing bowl and add the softened butter. Beat for a minute or so until pale and fluffy, then beat in the egg yolks. Sift together the flour and baking powder, then sift over the cake mixture. Fold in as lightly as you can using a large metal spoon, then fold in the almonds and extract. Stop folding as soon as the flour traces have gone.

Whisk the egg whites until they just hold their shape. Gently fold in a third of the egg white into the cake mix, using a whisk. Repeat with another third, then the final third. Take care not to over mix and lose the lightness of the egg whites.

Lightly fold in the raspberries. Divide between the prepared tins and level the mixture using a round bladed knife. Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then turn out, peel off the lining paper and leave to cool completely.

Set one cake on a serving plate. Spoon the clotted cream on top. Scatter the raspberries over the cream and put the other cake on top.

Blend the icing sugar with 1 to 1 1/2 Tbsp cold water until it is smooth and coats the back of a spoon thinly. Drizzle the icing over the cake.

Scatter the rose petals over and around the cake, dust with icing sugar and serve to some very lucky people.



Cooking in The English Kitchen today delicious Pappardelle with Roasted Winter Squash, Rocket and Pistachios.

“Patience is a godly attribute that can heal souls, unlock treasures of knowledge and understanding, and transform ordinary men and women into saints and angels. Patience is truly a fruit of the Spirit. Patience means staying with something until the end. It means delaying immediate gratification for future blessings.”
― Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Poetry Saturday . . . Spell Bound

Source: ginsui-rin.deviantart.com via Marie on Pinterest

The night is darkening round me,
The wild winds coldly blow;
But a tyrant spell has bound me
And I cannot, cannot go.

Source: weheartit.com via Marie on Pinterest

The giant trees are bending
Their bare boughs weighed with snow,
And the storm is fast descending,
And yet I cannot go.

Source: flickr.com via Marie on Pinterest

Clouds beyond clouds above me,
Wastes beyond wastes below;
But nothing drear can move me,
I will not, cannot go.
~Emily Bronte

Source: bonjour-celine.blogspot.com via Marie on Pinterest

Oh how easy it is to be completely spell bound by a winter's snow when you are out walking and it begins to fall . . . first those fluffy fat flakes like goosedown . . . melting almost as soon as they land on the ground. But then . . . they begin to fall faster and faster . . . and one after another begins to add up and soon . . . the ground is covered, but . . . still it falls.

And you stand there as it accumulates on your shoulders and hair and eyelashes . . . and perhaps you stick your tongue out for just a taste . . . and it tastes like magic. It has you in it's spell, the magic woven around you and over you . . . and under you. You cannot help but stand still and take it all in. That is a winter's day . . . in the snow . . . in the wood . . . on your own. Can anyhting on earth possibly be more beautiful, or serene?

Snowy thoughts for today . . . The wind is blowing again. I can hear it howling down the chimney. We had the fab offer last night of a week in Spain. All we have to pay for is our airfare. It is very tempting. We shall give it some thought for sure . . . but with two weddings coming up and a very strict budget, I'm not sure we dare chance it. Best pray about it I think!!

Have some apples in your fruit basket that need using up? This is a very delicious way to do just that. One of our favourite cakes, this is one from my archives. The picture's not that great, but I can still remember how very wonderful it tasted. I just may have to break down and bake one today. Sigh . . . I am so weak.



*Caramel Apple Cake*
Serves 12
Printable Recipe

Tart apples combined with a delicious caramel glaze are a classic combination. This pleases everyone who eats it. Serve it sliced with some vanilla ice cream, for a simple dessert that will, at once, both impress and tantalize your guests. This one will have them coming back for more!

3 cups flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup castor sugar
¾ cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla essence
4 cups chopped Granny Smith apples (3 to 4 large apples)

GLAZE:
½ cup butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
¼ cup milk

Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg in a bowl; set aside. Beat the brown sugar, castor sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture and beat until well blended; mixture will be very thick. Fold in the apples. Pour into a greased and floured tube pan (bundt). Bake in a pre-heated 180*C/350*F oven for 1 hour, or until a wooden pick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack, then invert onto a serving plate.

For the glaze combine the butter, brown sugar and milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes and 30 seconds. Pour the hot glaze over the cooled cake. You may also bake this cake in a 9 X 13 inch rectangular cake pan, in which case the cooking time will only be about 45 minutes.



Cooking over in The English Kitchen today, Fat Rascals!