tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73762418880196499812024-03-19T02:55:00.089-07:00Joie de Vivre.Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-9979321841532790512012-05-25T09:48:00.001-07:002012-05-25T09:48:32.520-07:00Sunscreen 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Uz0mI3pC-7ZUXmfITO6-DPeU-xridP99y0vAfYWxgBv1Y1nWYO5yMgvMTVtwgRV4TLuroScxWPpDVJtj0CnP2dDhb2KZKW5Av0kiNQbom-4hV1FXnJ9SSIu_1gs7QN1QMtw3re46_9YD/s1600/summer.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Uz0mI3pC-7ZUXmfITO6-DPeU-xridP99y0vAfYWxgBv1Y1nWYO5yMgvMTVtwgRV4TLuroScxWPpDVJtj0CnP2dDhb2KZKW5Av0kiNQbom-4hV1FXnJ9SSIu_1gs7QN1QMtw3re46_9YD/s400/summer.png" width="340" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Summer is almost here, and with it comes the sun...and hopefully sunscreen. Many of us know that our moms always told us to put on sunscreen (and it often seems like a nuisance!), but here's why mom was right: every year in the United States, over two million people suffer from basal and squamous skin cancer, and another 75,000 are sick with melanoma, a severe skin cancer. How many people die? About 12,000 each year. These numbers are sobering, and, although sunscreen isn't a non-cancer guarantee, it drastically cuts down on your chances of developing cancer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some guidelines suggested by the American Cancer Society:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Avoid sun between 10 am and 4 pm, even on cloudy days!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Seek shade, when you're outside during these times.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Try to slip on a shirt over your bathing suit when you get out of the water for extended periods of time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen (15 SPF and over!) are all in order. Don't skimp on the sunscreen either; reapply about every 2 hours.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are my personal suggestions for protecting your skin in style!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To protect hair: you can either put sunscreen in your hair (yes, I know.), or you can opt for a hat, and a stylish one at that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Try this color-blocked hat from Target! ($15)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-GSquZf8nJV2cJzNHqacQTWtLjv0Uv7G2SBb8CFT5DQ8-jLXryi9pYxFCBqUAn2eJb-RGqFjx0cQwVNJq0Dnz01BBRiqFjEh5svK69WzhnVBCTp3eJ22oSLUFxfrqVPcLDbqB7aq9XYv/s1600/img-thing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-GSquZf8nJV2cJzNHqacQTWtLjv0Uv7G2SBb8CFT5DQ8-jLXryi9pYxFCBqUAn2eJb-RGqFjx0cQwVNJq0Dnz01BBRiqFjEh5svK69WzhnVBCTp3eJ22oSLUFxfrqVPcLDbqB7aq9XYv/s320/img-thing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To protect skin: make sure to get a sunscreen that is compatible for both body and face, ensuring that you won't break out like crazy when you apply it.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Try Trader Joe's Face and Body Sunscreen or Neutrogena's Clear Skin Sunscreen! (About $8 each)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUCYdOHmkzGk7FWVegLhGi97hc3D5FIlRgDIWdfBuNqnQ6ZD861M0C6n_TxhbdpwvWh5ZiF9MDlP13alahIsXQ3od9bjDBqebZHjW08Q9quF3l156YG7OclUw8enqdxDpeOLB91u_RHokR/s1600/Neutrogena-Clear-Face-Break-Out-Free-Sunblock-SPF-55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUCYdOHmkzGk7FWVegLhGi97hc3D5FIlRgDIWdfBuNqnQ6ZD861M0C6n_TxhbdpwvWh5ZiF9MDlP13alahIsXQ3od9bjDBqebZHjW08Q9quF3l156YG7OclUw8enqdxDpeOLB91u_RHokR/s400/Neutrogena-Clear-Face-Break-Out-Free-Sunblock-SPF-55.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To protect lips: Yes, it may seem insignificant, but your lips become wrinkled and dried the more you expose them to the sun without protection. Try Yes To Carrots Sweet Fig Lip Butter with SPF15! (About $3)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcQM4_RaEy5Uom1mT6apm8pXXgrcCiHYS7FVoMRZ2bJr2AJ4EaZ1jTk6e-HUFEI9nrCZa2jEif5q71Bb5KRD2DlYZ5Ky_9RISpdP5XVCbAYyaPJUqIKIouxEUdDN3aQsfBAmLlT1bW3HO/s1600/lip-butter-150x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcQM4_RaEy5Uom1mT6apm8pXXgrcCiHYS7FVoMRZ2bJr2AJ4EaZ1jTk6e-HUFEI9nrCZa2jEif5q71Bb5KRD2DlYZ5Ky_9RISpdP5XVCbAYyaPJUqIKIouxEUdDN3aQsfBAmLlT1bW3HO/s1600/lip-butter-150x200.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Get your protection on, and have a happy summer! (I'll be posting more "101"s the next couple weeks.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-1700321513607638072012-02-24T17:52:00.002-08:002012-02-25T19:33:53.648-08:00Beauty and the Heat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4wFMwTpjbhGEBEZrzmoGB_kswNoJe7E7TN59X_MaOcCfXqCui7e5OPKThZMEWn9wDy1ZMJ-PLFd84vyJdOHHP0vCN5jR8GSDaephl5FLXmtTbO5zhd-OBefukN9gfrJ6OZ8c7WQWXF8n/s1600/269052_2249624719912_1227041066_32764893_7847276_n_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4wFMwTpjbhGEBEZrzmoGB_kswNoJe7E7TN59X_MaOcCfXqCui7e5OPKThZMEWn9wDy1ZMJ-PLFd84vyJdOHHP0vCN5jR8GSDaephl5FLXmtTbO5zhd-OBefukN9gfrJ6OZ8c7WQWXF8n/s320/269052_2249624719912_1227041066_32764893_7847276_n_thumb.jpg" width="320" /></a>Yes, that picture embodies what I feel like on most summer days. I feel even more this way when I'm out in the sun, with make-up on. Sun plus makeup creates one of the most yucky feelings, and, what is more, you can't wipe that sweat dripping off your forehead. Talk about torture...</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPFtt4MCF1nYP-bIn6ph0jBUx4mrCeY2EykzrcpSEOuJXVqTRBqzpRqqvldWuKxoAHUvwy8NxPaCEsrN6QKknu7rJ2QSaffQ28IZ2iFuNmmIQzsmqFqNU1-grDaAN-hj4I857r-J-ApDK/s1600/tumblr_lzwohnI49L1rosjqwo1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPFtt4MCF1nYP-bIn6ph0jBUx4mrCeY2EykzrcpSEOuJXVqTRBqzpRqqvldWuKxoAHUvwy8NxPaCEsrN6QKknu7rJ2QSaffQ28IZ2iFuNmmIQzsmqFqNU1-grDaAN-hj4I857r-J-ApDK/s320/tumblr_lzwohnI49L1rosjqwo1_500_large.jpg" width="320" /></a>I think we'd all rather feel like this. I've found out some things about summer beauty the hard way, but I'd like to spare you all the trouble. Below, I've listed my tips for feeling fresh and breezy, even during the most oppressive heat. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFA2b_ysvQWEr7OjMKjqrnMM0raDay5FDYrx27aNKay1IaHFIM4DC7AV9y6ZFi5MPQwp7Wu71nbtVNg75-JxqZouGgw80IOvKL76FN20Hw1vN9F1U_oQRGquWbl0ol425cVYUQa7z0252l/s1600/Lands+End+Canvas+Spring+2011+campaign+photo+Ben+Watts+stylist+Fabrice+model+Valerie+Avdeyeva+Women+Management+NYC+Blog+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFA2b_ysvQWEr7OjMKjqrnMM0raDay5FDYrx27aNKay1IaHFIM4DC7AV9y6ZFi5MPQwp7Wu71nbtVNg75-JxqZouGgw80IOvKL76FN20Hw1vN9F1U_oQRGquWbl0ol425cVYUQa7z0252l/s320/Lands+End+Canvas+Spring+2011+campaign+photo+Ben+Watts+stylist+Fabrice+model+Valerie+Avdeyeva+Women+Management+NYC+Blog+2.jpg" width="320" /></a><strong>Go minimal:</strong> Don't wear as much makeup or as heavy of formulas in the summer. If you are used to wearing liquid foundation, start wearing a light mineral foundation; if you only wear mineral then go bare, only using concealer when needed. This sounds odd, but your skin will actually improve if you don't let your sweat mix with makeup. I'll list my summer essentials in a later post.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0WOS7O6dhdFq16okcFLWqXuMwvT0XW9qGmzzAlD3oMV9_CuKy0GKR1Yxvoc-J3VdlWVVV1AVFrUDBoLLZfxm8HMj9rjHxo_muEKmGk-IQETlVh6b2dNlfsCfksD3wxBV-O_4i9fyuB8O/s1600/tumblr_lpvz5yeBQa1qe9j7no1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0WOS7O6dhdFq16okcFLWqXuMwvT0XW9qGmzzAlD3oMV9_CuKy0GKR1Yxvoc-J3VdlWVVV1AVFrUDBoLLZfxm8HMj9rjHxo_muEKmGk-IQETlVh6b2dNlfsCfksD3wxBV-O_4i9fyuB8O/s320/tumblr_lpvz5yeBQa1qe9j7no1_500_large.jpg" width="247" /></a><strong>Let your hair go: </strong>I found out too late, that summer does not look kindly upon full bangs/fringes. I suffered through the heat, rarely able to let them down, and, when I did, they became sweaty and gross within the hour. Instead, grow out your full bangs in favor of face framing layers. Wash your tresses with a moisturizing formula (I like Suave Almond/Shea Butter), and avoid too much sun exposure. This will prevent your hair from getting brittle, breaking, and creating fly aways. Let your hair thrive in its natural texture, heat styling occasionally.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbJkK_tTEqPEB-u34BGTDGF3e4lVy9wocLzCPlLj23xhjlj1zTKZ4xSKZxY-k6N4R8jRXjjZjsnM5Si6GLkt0oBsfAECimWI4JMI8GziQwcUarWDDil2YpE-145DUllLVJzv013sIB7AY/s1600/tumblr_lyfaw38OPf1r2gjaeo1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbJkK_tTEqPEB-u34BGTDGF3e4lVy9wocLzCPlLj23xhjlj1zTKZ4xSKZxY-k6N4R8jRXjjZjsnM5Si6GLkt0oBsfAECimWI4JMI8GziQwcUarWDDil2YpE-145DUllLVJzv013sIB7AY/s400/tumblr_lyfaw38OPf1r2gjaeo1_500_large.jpg" width="400" /></a><strong>Move it: </strong>I can not stress the importance of excercise. It revs up your metabolism, enables your body to rid itself of toxins, and boosts positive thoughts. Excercise especially helps your skin, because it clears your pores, and brings the blood to the surface, making any imperfections heal at a quicker pace. Summer is a great time for moving; get out a take a walk or run, ride a bike, or swim. Make yourself a goal, like jogging for 30 minutes every day or doing 25 push-ups. You will find yourself enjoying the challenge, and feeling better and more accomplished. It may seem silly, but excercise should be a part of your beauty routine.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'll be posting my Summer Beauty Tutorial in the near future!</div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-25964848119700957302012-02-23T09:46:00.000-08:002012-02-23T09:46:42.276-08:00Cold and Slightly Savory Bliss<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFM9zLaGoR18i7qj5Ig_1sBgdpheZsPbu3IEkRAQAAf_rcOEAJF0uj01tMl1QWNwA4sMKghCIwBW9BemaEHYLfdW0t2HmhKmxTDh1gTwfJYCPX8ridcqU9VRY8_RHUt2gHEbi41B2gyx3/s1600/354517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFM9zLaGoR18i7qj5Ig_1sBgdpheZsPbu3IEkRAQAAf_rcOEAJF0uj01tMl1QWNwA4sMKghCIwBW9BemaEHYLfdW0t2HmhKmxTDh1gTwfJYCPX8ridcqU9VRY8_RHUt2gHEbi41B2gyx3/s400/354517.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm talking about that glorious dessert, Salted Caramel Ice Cream. Its texture is rich and smooth, and its flavor is complex and rather alluring. In other words, you want MORE!! Trust me, is is well worth your time...</div><br />
1 1/4 cups sugar, divided <br />
<div class="ingredient">2 1/4 cups heavy cream, divided </div><div class="ingredient">1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt such as Maldon </div><div class="ingredient">1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract </div><div class="ingredient">1 cup whole milk </div><div class="ingredient">3 large eggs </div><div class="ingredient"><br />
</div><div class="instruction">Heat 1 cup sugar in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring with a fork to heat sugar evenly, until it starts to melt, then stop stirring and cook, swirling skillet occasionally so sugar melts evenly, until it is dark amber. (This step will take a very long time, so hold your horses...</div><div class="instruction"><br />
</div><div class="ingredient"> Add 1 1/4 cups cream and cook, stirring, until all of caramel has dissolved. (Note: the liquidized sugar will bind up in reaction to the coolness of the cream. Don't panic, it will dissolve with patient stirring.) Transfer to a bowl and stir in sea salt and vanilla. Cool to room temperature. </div><div class="ingredient"><br />
</div><div class="ingredient"> Meanwhile, bring milk, remaining cup cream, and remaining 1/4 cup sugar just to a boil in a small heavy saucepan, stirring occasionally. </div><div class="ingredient"><br />
</div><div class="ingredient"> Thoroughly whisk eggs in a medium bowl, then add half of hot milk mixture in a slow stream, whisking constantly. Pour back into saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until custard coats back of spoon (do not let boil!!). Pour custard through a fine-mesh sieve, using a spoon to manipulate the custard past any lumps into a large bowl, then stir in cooled caramel. </div><div class="ingredient"><br />
</div><div class="ingredient"> Pour liquid into ice cream maker, and let the maker run its cycle. The ice cream will be soft serve, so freeze it in the canister or an airtight container to firm it up. </div><div class="ingredient"><br />
</div><div class="ingredient">Happy Eating!</div><div class="ingredient"><br />
</div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-31587493328173173732012-02-17T08:16:00.000-08:002012-02-18T10:31:17.629-08:00Pictures+Trends= InspirationYou all may have seen my newest poll, and thought, "What? I haven't heard of any of these things." If you haven't let me introduce my four favorite beauty trends of Winter/Spring 2012:<br />
<br />
<strong>Bold Brows: </strong>I love, love bold brows! They totally change the look of your face, and really give a elegant look to your eyes. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9AJPF92kr742qfkyZxcSBKqbsK4GRuDrLkdRoo7468wxRsdbLucc-OR5FGoTpoctqp4QeEfRTtJaRrq-n-9mqfQtWisF_vNzTexyZji6otKz6cIZ_uQ1MCRsQNyN8cpCsgnbQ2DPMzqk/s1600/Guerlain-Holiday-Imperial-Collection-Promo_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9AJPF92kr742qfkyZxcSBKqbsK4GRuDrLkdRoo7468wxRsdbLucc-OR5FGoTpoctqp4QeEfRTtJaRrq-n-9mqfQtWisF_vNzTexyZji6otKz6cIZ_uQ1MCRsQNyN8cpCsgnbQ2DPMzqk/s400/Guerlain-Holiday-Imperial-Collection-Promo_large.jpg" width="282" /></a></div><br />
<strong>How to:</strong> Just don't pluck, except to nab stray hairs that grow outside your natural eyebrow perimeters. If you want a slightly bolder look, purchase an eye pencil (If you are a brunette, buy a shade lighter than your natural color; if you are blonde buy a shade darker) and make small flicks in the same direction as the hairs grow. Then take either a clear mascara or an eyebrow comb and brush the color, blending it in with the brow.<br />
<br />
<strong>Glossy Lids:</strong> This is a different look, but are very pretty and easy to do. Just don't use anything but a neutral color. Shiny plus intense color can look too circus-y!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK71NX5XjZkdSD2EGSEha9keQ9PcS2WbDfoAKXi_-YDSWrVeDTvod58QhV_dt3m6p0RDFvTvePJ-L5vpORybP6aqpAQlTafBeWpLamHSO-QGTnph3gQ4OKW90gI8RDUzHJWAeWFdQu1hlf/s1600/tumblr_lhrl6uaTVk1qa11s4o1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK71NX5XjZkdSD2EGSEha9keQ9PcS2WbDfoAKXi_-YDSWrVeDTvod58QhV_dt3m6p0RDFvTvePJ-L5vpORybP6aqpAQlTafBeWpLamHSO-QGTnph3gQ4OKW90gI8RDUzHJWAeWFdQu1hlf/s320/tumblr_lhrl6uaTVk1qa11s4o1_500_large.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oqNleWU274Hkx1OZoU-Ro2ZsRy1NFLk74z-irnD3FiuU_Sd647Q9DgI09FfyiP-7CaiB9KK4bJWCVmqcVkYmuwR2vXUJRpMtjVo96soP3zMeot2MiHfyBMdLfVVLylQtICsCPfFeFciK/s1600/1208-donna-karan_li.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oqNleWU274Hkx1OZoU-Ro2ZsRy1NFLk74z-irnD3FiuU_Sd647Q9DgI09FfyiP-7CaiB9KK4bJWCVmqcVkYmuwR2vXUJRpMtjVo96soP3zMeot2MiHfyBMdLfVVLylQtICsCPfFeFciK/s320/1208-donna-karan_li.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>How to: </strong>First take a neutral shade of eyeshadow (such as taupe, medium brown, or light gold) and apply it to your entire lid. By lid, I mean from your eyelashes to your crease. (You can identify your crease by closing your eye and feeling around for the area where your eyeball meets the bone. That is your crease.) Next take a very small amount of petroleum jelly, and <strong>pat</strong> it onto your lid, on top of the eyeshadow. Do not rub it. The warmth of your skin will make it smooth out, and rubbing will only diffuse the the eyeshadow. If you use the proper small amount of petroleum it will give your eyes a subtle glow...we aren't going for a glossy, lacquered look.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Navy Nails: </strong>Although I'm not a "dark" polish person, I love the look of these. Just make sure that the polish has some shimmer, otherwise you'll end up looking a bit, well, gothic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfpWrBeI6H0EkuiSe_3-3SdgSYw697iU0xjJ08q3LW4pGbzg3MDyg3vtL_6Q93rk8QOfYUijiNz3Nisp5Yq-JWJV3wuoWvPesHLaTsZrzFGqpfH4702GRHRq1HHxBS5_9v_U4azDiy9A3/s1600/natalia-vodianova3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="457" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfpWrBeI6H0EkuiSe_3-3SdgSYw697iU0xjJ08q3LW4pGbzg3MDyg3vtL_6Q93rk8QOfYUijiNz3Nisp5Yq-JWJV3wuoWvPesHLaTsZrzFGqpfH4702GRHRq1HHxBS5_9v_U4azDiy9A3/s640/natalia-vodianova3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>How To: </strong>First, your nails cannot be long if you do this manicure. Trust me, it looks bad. See my previous article (<a href="http://joiedevivrethegirl2.blogspot.com/2012/02/qs-and-as-beauty-edition.html" target="_blank">Q and A Beauty Edition</a>) for directions on a long-lasting manicure. Make sure to add a top coat too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Extreme Curl/Frizz:</strong> This hairstyle is quite practical, especially for days when your hair won't do a thing. Your hair will do this. Anytime. And look naturally cute while doing it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-afcIb-4gxyhaXKzTCZvFlBVKdEAyX_3BoIGWmRPsrgGG1Ikt3JG4CBXe2Pek8FKtXmcc-93l503hhwWOv760xiiDLqyF9c20ztSpoFYdkOg7CIwMap7L_xrOM8XbtqQBep4B7wDTY5S/s1600/masl05_soft-frizzy-hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-afcIb-4gxyhaXKzTCZvFlBVKdEAyX_3BoIGWmRPsrgGG1Ikt3JG4CBXe2Pek8FKtXmcc-93l503hhwWOv760xiiDLqyF9c20ztSpoFYdkOg7CIwMap7L_xrOM8XbtqQBep4B7wDTY5S/s1600/masl05_soft-frizzy-hair.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>How to:</strong> Take dry hair divide hair into sections. The number of sections will depend on the thickness of your hair. I only need 5 sections, while one of my sisters, Kay, would probably need about 12. (Ok, ok, I'm jealous.) The divisions don't have to be precise. Just take each section of hair, and twist it and twist it, until it has a squiggly sort of bun against your head. Take a hair band and, while holding the mini bun securely, wrap it around the base of the of the bun, making it tight. Once you have repeated for all your sections, then either let them sit in your hair for several hours, or take a blow dryer and blow it on each bun. This will heat up the hair, helping to retain the curl, and speeding up the process. If you use a hair dryer, you only need to let the mini buns sit for a half hour. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Take the buns out, run your fingers through the curls, and mist with all over with a light veil of hairspray. If you want more volume, brush out curls, but don't pull on them. Then gradually work through hair, holding a section perpendicular to your head and hairspraying it, as you gradually let the hair fall. You can also tease hair for additional volume.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>One last note...</strong> These beauty ideas are very different. Experiment before you rock these looks in public, simply because confidence is the key! So, try something new; you might discover your new signature look. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. Vote on the poll: which look would you try?</div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-64468088283187417282012-02-16T10:06:00.000-08:002012-02-16T10:06:55.074-08:00Tough Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnKcFypEfBrctVcrZFKMdWWV9H9JqSOAlKcSJGlQTFvEWnljg_5_FfCm2rkEeoFPj45yliu59e3aUUIvab4PimuY55ybBCE7gbvYNF9ue95528HWkM_kxTOHYLuERz6uhzYM2gfBOmzUC/s1600/Untitled+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnKcFypEfBrctVcrZFKMdWWV9H9JqSOAlKcSJGlQTFvEWnljg_5_FfCm2rkEeoFPj45yliu59e3aUUIvab4PimuY55ybBCE7gbvYNF9ue95528HWkM_kxTOHYLuERz6uhzYM2gfBOmzUC/s400/Untitled+(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
You might recognize this face. If you do, it's accompanied by a voice yelling, "You can always push harder, you can always do more! So give it to me!!!" Yes, I'm talking about Jillian Michaels.<br />
<br />
A little over a year ago, I had never heard of her. I also grudgingly ate a half cup of salad every evening during dinner, and glumly walked a half mile on the treadmill at the gym. But, there came a time, when that part of my brain grew up, making me realize that I wasn't being a good steward with the body that God gave me. Jillian Michaels has been a key part of my fitness journey, helping me to realize that healthy eating isn't a "diet", it is a lifestyle. Her workouts have been springboards, showing me that I can do more, and I can motivate myself.<br />
<br />
That is my story, and I thank God for bringing me a responsible perspective on my health.<br />
<br />
Well, most of you know about this part of Jillian...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVWn7Yq_CeXOo1NkQjCD4FG1oPfmVQ4O_pHxncjTJURb46CfPGUvaNhYeKOxPeoZfgm6IYfyJ4HkvtsFMl-SKvBimaE9QXHJjEUpCqNkWBNTn__DdPzQ3HTtOu-cXLonIfTCcorfnXdVAP/s1600/jillian-michaels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVWn7Yq_CeXOo1NkQjCD4FG1oPfmVQ4O_pHxncjTJURb46CfPGUvaNhYeKOxPeoZfgm6IYfyJ4HkvtsFMl-SKvBimaE9QXHJjEUpCqNkWBNTn__DdPzQ3HTtOu-cXLonIfTCcorfnXdVAP/s320/jillian-michaels.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br />
...but not all of you may know about Jillian the cookbook writer...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGd5A33PQiaKg7fO0yxOsQtO0euSHyiGRVUKsd2Iqr3aObhyVhWWhP39Mk9bEx-dBH_6PvyrdmELt2SxXNqLrl76CdUI6EizIzPjHoRSyf_UNluD_D-Dg9meyk_qG1TeqOw6Ged3nxZzQ/s1600/jillian_michaels_the_master_your_metabolism_cookbook-320x320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGd5A33PQiaKg7fO0yxOsQtO0euSHyiGRVUKsd2Iqr3aObhyVhWWhP39Mk9bEx-dBH_6PvyrdmELt2SxXNqLrl76CdUI6EizIzPjHoRSyf_UNluD_D-Dg9meyk_qG1TeqOw6Ged3nxZzQ/s1600/jillian_michaels_the_master_your_metabolism_cookbook-320x320.jpg" /></a></div>If I could only keep one cookbook out of my entire collection, this would be the one I would pick. And that is saying something. The introduction to this cookbook is hefty and informative, giving you directions for cleaning your eating habits, an overview on hormones (and how they are effected by your diet), and lists of the best choices from different power nutrient food groups (ie legumes, berries, cruciferous vegetables, dairy). Jillian has a list of things not to eat, like hydrogenated fats (duh!) and high fructose corn syrup. In short, she is very reasonable, and her food could be easily cooked every day. It's simple. It's delicious. It's healthy.<br />
<br />
I'd like to share one of my favorite recipes from the book, her banana blueberry muffins. I've made them about six times, freezing them for a convenient breakfast. <br />
<br />
Jillian Michael's Blueberry Banana Muffins<br />
Makes 12 muffins<br />
<br />
2 very ripe bananas, mashed<br />
3/4 cup non-fat plain yogurt<br />
1/3 cup honey<br />
1/3 cup olive oil<br />
2 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour<br />
2 tsp. baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 cup frozen or fresh blueberries<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 425 degrees, and spray 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil or line with paper liners. Mix bananas, yogurt, honey, olive oil, and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until just combined. Fold in blueberries. Spoon batter into muffin tin, place tin in oven, <strong>and reduce heat to 400 degrees. </strong>Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until tops spring back when touched. Remove from oven, and let cool for 10 minutes. You can store them in an airtight container at room temp. for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.<br />
216 kcal each; fat 6.8g; protein 4.5g; carbs 37.1g; sodium 234.5mgSarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-8136749557489016492012-02-14T13:55:00.000-08:002013-03-22T11:50:38.672-07:00Q's and A's: Beauty Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2diDBYJDX4wZw6J1DGQxOnu3mp04geiK23VP0T3v-pMvgNdTNpZwRf0bmd0ffBIvxOzPfOmuNad20orFE7ra7m1LBGlhpfNylIN4NWvmNNP5-JUbV6WRISlLUynECXcicKjEwBGCyiqPy/s1600/081014-vogue-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2diDBYJDX4wZw6J1DGQxOnu3mp04geiK23VP0T3v-pMvgNdTNpZwRf0bmd0ffBIvxOzPfOmuNad20orFE7ra7m1LBGlhpfNylIN4NWvmNNP5-JUbV6WRISlLUynECXcicKjEwBGCyiqPy/s400/081014-vogue-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Q:</strong> My feet are dry and scaly! What can I do for a quick fix?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>A:</strong><em> Do this in the evening: First, soak feet in warm water. Take a washcloth and scrub the softened skin, removing all dead skin. Lastly, slather feet with petroleum jelly, and put on some socks. In the morning, you will wake up to soft feet!</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Q:</strong> My hair is dull, and I can't seem to get it to become shiny no matter how many "moisturizing" hair products I use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>A: </strong><em>You can do two things about this problem. First, mix a little bit of lemon juice and vinegar with quarter size dab of your shampoo, mixing with your fingers. This compound with thoroughly cleanse hair of any buildup. Next, let your conditioner sit in your hair for a full 3 minutes, rinsing out with cool water. Comb, and let dry in a loose braid.</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Q:</strong> My nail polish keeps chipping, even though it's only been a day or so since I painted my nails.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>A:</strong><em> My first recommendation is to buff your bare nails with a multi-sided nail buffer (you can find them for about a dollar!), then take some kind of oil and push back cuticles. Next, and most importantly, take a cotton ball dipped in either rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover and run it over nails. This will remove all moisture from between the nail and the paint, making it easier to dry and remain hard.</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Q:</strong> What's the trick to getting the perfect red lip?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>A:</strong><em> I've seen a lot of methods, but have come up with my own, which I find to be much simpler. First, <span style="background-color: white;">moisturize about 30 minutes to an hour in advance, depending on how dry your lips are. Read: slather on the carmex, lip balm, petroleum jelly! Next, take a warm, damp wash cloth and scrub those lips. If you have any flaky, dead skin, red lipstick will make it show like crazy. Next, I apply a lip balm, like Burt's Bees, to help the lipstick apply evenly. Apply that color straight from the tube, focusing on the middle of the lip. If you heavily apply color to the edges of your lip, you will end up with a clownish look...not cute. Then, grab</span> a paper towel and blot your lips, which means give that paper a KISS! Lastly, take your finger, rubbing a little bit lipstick onto it and dab this onto the middle of your lips. Press lips together, and you're ready to go! (Don't top with a shiny gloss, as this can look like too much. That lip balm will have provided all the moisture you need for a red lip.)</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
PS Next week, I will return with a second round of questions. If you have a query, comment below, and I'll try to answer it.<br />
<br />
PPS I'm also working on that Biscotti tutorial.Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-26671545586096246712012-02-11T09:40:00.000-08:002012-02-14T14:44:42.686-08:00From Scratch: Tortillas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJA2KIYXeFK9xugfPh252SrG4t3f0E1-PlKU6Ad8pq_uddUThgsfCILLA73_ChV9d_XwlRj88f6Jc5QL288U8J9JmO02fnwzJWc1E23LWk5UMMz6jnBVaQfv9YpWsjzegzxGPpv_Nkzof/s1600/3153033474_6a8ce8a222_z_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJA2KIYXeFK9xugfPh252SrG4t3f0E1-PlKU6Ad8pq_uddUThgsfCILLA73_ChV9d_XwlRj88f6Jc5QL288U8J9JmO02fnwzJWc1E23LWk5UMMz6jnBVaQfv9YpWsjzegzxGPpv_Nkzof/s400/3153033474_6a8ce8a222_z_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the most wonderful "fresh" things to eat is a warm tortilla. It doesn't even taste similar to the room-temp store bought variety. Plus, a warm tortilla has so many possibilities: peanut butter and banana, nutella, pb&J, butter, cinnamon and sugar, fresh fruit and whipped cream, breakfast burrito, a traditional bean burrito, or their flavors can be enjoyed by themselves. (Kid alert: And they're super easy to make!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. baking powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 vegetable shortening (or you can use 2 tbsp shortening, or 2 tbsp butter)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup hot water</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Additional flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mix dry ingredients, working in shortening with a pastry cutter or hands, until dough resembles course sand. Add hot water, and stir until a soft, sticky dough forms. Place dough on floured surface, dusting hands with flour, knead for about a minute, adding more flour if the dough sticks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cover dough with damp, clean towel and set aside for 10 minutes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cut dough ball into 12 sections, forming each section into a smaller ball. Then let rest for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, heat griddle over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Sprinkle more flour on a work surface, then roll a dough ball into a circle that is 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick, then 6-7 inches across. Repeat in batches for each tortilla. Place tortilla on hot griddle for 30 seconds, until it has light brown spots on the bottom. Use a spatula to turn tortilla, letting it cook for 15-20 seconds on other side. Wrap all tortillas in a dry towel to keep them warm until they are served. Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-30074517283770698192012-02-08T15:48:00.000-08:002012-02-08T15:48:05.920-08:00Bare EssentialsToday, I'm going to share my favorite personal products. These are just basic items I use daily, and love because of their effectiveness. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimv6BJUNCaYkCEd6qJZDSEPjrdaE7SBGw1nYrSvqpf4ALW7pEDWRmnCyGA7XrP3Q2WHBh4uyWDpRWOT9Mg2-UruR29-8tgvGXRy8fnpL5zPQjkH5EVMFG_nB4lySCbWe-BN8FCwGpv1vUq/s1600/personalp.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimv6BJUNCaYkCEd6qJZDSEPjrdaE7SBGw1nYrSvqpf4ALW7pEDWRmnCyGA7XrP3Q2WHBh4uyWDpRWOT9Mg2-UruR29-8tgvGXRy8fnpL5zPQjkH5EVMFG_nB4lySCbWe-BN8FCwGpv1vUq/s1600/personalp.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. I will be putting together a blog post in a week about beauty questions and "how-tos". If you have any questions please comment below, and I will include them in the article.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.P.S. Once again, please vote on the poll! I will do a tutorial on the winning item. </div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-6662717556584661212012-02-03T16:40:00.000-08:002012-02-03T16:41:31.383-08:00Carrot Pineapple Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrH4uKNcDuGkAG0VTcnkKvV3DVW71-vKa5e6i-l8koAkWRrFTitMpJZbVLAp0MYheDepzpSGQ-7dfRffmTUAapfdgvZzlESM1tEpMUI236hr4hqtV9G15zBHm2QK_3xEcid4-uVrQnH9E/s1600/2547497622_4ce3c68573_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrH4uKNcDuGkAG0VTcnkKvV3DVW71-vKa5e6i-l8koAkWRrFTitMpJZbVLAp0MYheDepzpSGQ-7dfRffmTUAapfdgvZzlESM1tEpMUI236hr4hqtV9G15zBHm2QK_3xEcid4-uVrQnH9E/s400/2547497622_4ce3c68573_large.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This recipe can be used for a sweet breakfast treat, or used as an almost-healthy dessert, when baked in muffin form and topped with rich cream cheese frosting.</span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 cups all-purpose flour</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp. salt</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp. baking soda</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp. cinnamon</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 eggs, slightly beaten</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup granulated sugar</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">¾ cup canola or olive oil </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup shredded carrot</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">8oz crushed unsweetened pineapple, still in its natural juices (not heavy syrup)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tsp. vanilla extract</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Put all ingredients in a large mixing bowl, folding, then stirring thoroughly until fully incorporated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pour batter into 2 greased 8x4 loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-37 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Note:</b> If you want to bake them as muffins, fill greased muffins tins 2/3 full, and bake at 350 degrees for 18-22 minutes.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">PS Thanks for your voting! If you haven’t voted yet, please do.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">PPS Look forward to my comprehensive, critical analysis on Darwin’s “Origin Of Species”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I’ve enjoyed his writing style, his content needs to be dissected properly using the Christian worldview. I will be posting this review/essay on my other blog: </span><a href="http://aloveofthoughts.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">http://aloveofthoughts.blogspot.com/</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-34689869186789820902012-01-30T10:55:00.000-08:002012-01-30T10:55:33.185-08:00Happy Monday!<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thinking: God is so gracious to me; I’ve been blessed beyond compare.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m reading: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Charles Darwin’s “Origin of Species”. That<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>man is brilliant, and my amazement grows every chapter I read.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m listening to: Well, this is strange, but let me explain. I don’t like Dev’s music…overall. But, recently, I heard her song, Dancing Shoes, and really enjoyed it. Why? It’s very un-Dev.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>learning: How to deal with an extremely tight schedule in a semi-sane manner.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m watching: We re-watched the 5-hour Pride and Prejudice this last weekend. That movie brings me fresh waves of happiness, embarrassment, and sadness.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> What’s cooking: I made Jillian Michael’s fudgy brownies from her cookbook, Mastering Your Metabolism. They are yummmmay and good-for-you too!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thankful for: A brain created in the image of God. I am so happy that I am able to think and analyze, unlike an animal.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m creating: A food budget, which should be interesting since I will have to formulate an entire month’s work of meal plans. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m praying: For focus on the tasks set before me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I did this last weekend: I took the SAT this last weekend. It was fun ( I love competition), but my grey cells were fried. Sunday was restful. We had a wonderful time with friends, had a delicious lunch, and played Kinect Dance Central. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m looking forward to: The Youth meeting week.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A picture to share: Here are some personal photos of foods I have made in the last months.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSZukJfw1lVB7HWixLuNejWdgGKT6omvPY7f8oHMJZy0bpShQAeku1GtAdZ4_5mlAvqWw9vSbeiCuKHAZou1HxK6zlLUzWVx8or-gCp3t9Q9ZcXg_XY33qdDjQCVfAi19xO7Chr49b9RG/s1600/P1120772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSZukJfw1lVB7HWixLuNejWdgGKT6omvPY7f8oHMJZy0bpShQAeku1GtAdZ4_5mlAvqWw9vSbeiCuKHAZou1HxK6zlLUzWVx8or-gCp3t9Q9ZcXg_XY33qdDjQCVfAi19xO7Chr49b9RG/s400/P1120772.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elvis Bars</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidOawu6UKKWIpCOJjDtL37B-qErMw4RkrDBkgx8XQ3knAAm2VMsGvMXyDhUNg8xvbww-9j8g9yTY32IUmvF6mzMo0k23nr-ba7khttT0HEuXnOx3xdZt51v421pJJb2pug-BHUcMRt7oDx/s1600/P6290729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidOawu6UKKWIpCOJjDtL37B-qErMw4RkrDBkgx8XQ3knAAm2VMsGvMXyDhUNg8xvbww-9j8g9yTY32IUmvF6mzMo0k23nr-ba7khttT0HEuXnOx3xdZt51v421pJJb2pug-BHUcMRt7oDx/s400/P6290729.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Lemon Herb Chicken (recipe coming soon!)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3GN74UgUC-Hx0Jv68_ipFU1bsZ4ixql8ciCPZtXaVnyW2N9Rf17Nat8JkhbDcWKmpZW8w3Nx_vPkdqPBm2gapdy7CEqHxXMm_knbgFSVL6HPYwACx_45HgP95m374e_4lP_0gznqAvbm/s1600/PC290594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3GN74UgUC-Hx0Jv68_ipFU1bsZ4ixql8ciCPZtXaVnyW2N9Rf17Nat8JkhbDcWKmpZW8w3Nx_vPkdqPBm2gapdy7CEqHxXMm_knbgFSVL6HPYwACx_45HgP95m374e_4lP_0gznqAvbm/s400/PC290594.JPG" width="300" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Homemade Cinnabon-style Cinnamon Rolls (My family liked these, but prefered a different type I made. So, I'll be posting the second recipe, instead of this one.)</span></o:p></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="left"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">P.S. Please vote in my latest tutorial poll! I'd appreciate feedback.</span></o:p></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-42240954679401907272012-01-25T12:37:00.000-08:002012-01-25T12:39:36.380-08:00Blueberry Muffins!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttyzxH2KiELR60JyErFwBuNYGyl4GkNsRlx6eKv3NKZY7-OFfl3xS9qwIHn99DV4iXoEuDK5yIyJxaPLTZB_4g7GkCrOEF_ebgxD-jd4V3nCrM6kYYHTYs7vb9CzcV511wxO6tKY-t_pu/s1600/tumblr_lqhrflsLNS1qh94jyo1_400_large.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttyzxH2KiELR60JyErFwBuNYGyl4GkNsRlx6eKv3NKZY7-OFfl3xS9qwIHn99DV4iXoEuDK5yIyJxaPLTZB_4g7GkCrOEF_ebgxD-jd4V3nCrM6kYYHTYs7vb9CzcV511wxO6tKY-t_pu/s400/tumblr_lqhrflsLNS1qh94jyo1_400_large.png" width="400" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">My favorite blueberry muffins, they are what you wish for on winter mornings with a steaming cup of tea or paired with cheddar-broccoli soup. Light and flavorful, they don't even need butter, and surpass their Betty Crocker cousins when it comes to texture and size. (You can replace the white flour with Golden 86, aka white whole wheat. All the other whole grains I've tried using have failed.)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Blueberry Muffins</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">½ cup butter<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">1/2 cup honey </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">2 eggs<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">½ cup milk<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">1 tsp. vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">2 cups all-purpose flour (or Golden 86)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">2 tsp. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">¼ tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">2 cups of fresh or frozen unsweetened blueberries<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt;">¼ tsp. ground nutmeg</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tbsp. raw sugar<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in milk and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; add to creamed mixture just until moistened. Fold in blueberries. Fill paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full. Combine nutmeg and raw sugar; sprinkle over the tops. Bake at 375° for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Serve warm. Yields<b> </b>1 dozen.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">P.S. Please vote in my newest poll! It closes on February 11th, and I would like to have a video or picture tutorial up by Valentine's Day, if possible. Your feedback is appreciated.</span></span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-44786690013177455332012-01-24T17:21:00.000-08:002012-01-24T17:21:04.311-08:00Comfort Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaUb0AfBNqiD2QKYI5vuEzLmscHwASrVfdaLdJtICMG98KeUn7lz3L5n16sLp2_hfWXIGoN3vSIY8Dh7WZb_WEPffnnzeg4RT3MYfjM6x3szA18MnHwvD1wWfhU6pwzIGO1L_sufMgu2Zk/s1600/cheddar1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaUb0AfBNqiD2QKYI5vuEzLmscHwASrVfdaLdJtICMG98KeUn7lz3L5n16sLp2_hfWXIGoN3vSIY8Dh7WZb_WEPffnnzeg4RT3MYfjM6x3szA18MnHwvD1wWfhU6pwzIGO1L_sufMgu2Zk/s400/cheddar1.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kid-friendly, family-friendly, tongue-friendly! This yummy soup does it all, and feels like a hug on a cold day. I like to serve it with blueberry muffins; I will post that recipe soon. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Step 1:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tbsp. melted butter<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 onion, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sauté the ingredients above for 5 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Step 2:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">7 cups of chicken broth<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The sautéed onion and broccoli mixture<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">¾ tsp. oregano leaves<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large soup pot, bring broth to a boil; add broccoli and onion mixture along with oregano leaves. Reduce heat, simmering until broccoli is tender.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Step 3:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tbsp. butter<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6 tbsp. flour<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup low-fat milk<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups of grated cheddar cheese<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While broth simmers, prepare cheese sauce for soup in a small saucepan. Melt butter in saucepan, adding in flour and blending with spoon until smooth. Gradually add milk, stirring with whisk over medium heat until thickened; blend in cheese until melted.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Step 4:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Puree the broth/vegetable mixture in blender until smooth. (This may be completed in batches.) Whisk in cheese sauce. Season as desired with salt and pepper. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Makes 6 servings.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-78739504198613106192012-01-22T21:49:00.000-08:002012-01-22T21:51:26.949-08:00Better Than Vintage<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I typed "meatloaf" into Google. The first image to accost my occipital lobe was this...urg. If you have had this kind of meatloaf, I feel your pain. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKY2WJMWLliz17ab1VaHybpQE3FAOrDRMBk99Dg9JrA7A8oaRRGP7uBl3MzkrAuYQGpjOhYBwJ4A2-chXtVIJ_Ab5ojnrih0JshsYAsNNwkmsXt8js_whtGWmg4fJhR134N8oKzg3qr9Um/s1600/meatloaf-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKY2WJMWLliz17ab1VaHybpQE3FAOrDRMBk99Dg9JrA7A8oaRRGP7uBl3MzkrAuYQGpjOhYBwJ4A2-chXtVIJ_Ab5ojnrih0JshsYAsNNwkmsXt8js_whtGWmg4fJhR134N8oKzg3qr9Um/s400/meatloaf-1.jpg" width="247" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">These kinds of meatloaves are classic to be sure, but tend to become dried out, and don't have a whole lot of nutritional value. Sometimes, it's good to update a classic recipe, but do so in such a subtle manner, that the recipe has a vintage vibe but all the benefits of the modern age. This "modernized" meatloaf recipe is near and dear to me. I've tweaked it through three different sessions, and have hopefully perfected it. My family loves it; it's moist, flavorful, and packs flavor without the ketchup, french-fried onions, copious ammounts of cheese, bacon, and corn flakes. It tastes new.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sweet and Savory Meatloaf</span><br />
<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup coarse fresh bread crumbs (from 2 slices wheat sandwich bread)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/3 cup whole milk<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 medium celery ribs, finely</span> chopped<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 medium carrot, finely chopped<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 medium onion, finely chopped<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 garlic cloves, finely chopped<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 tablespoon ancho chile powder<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 pound ground <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>turkey<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/2 cup crushed canned pineapple<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice, divided<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 large eggs, lightly beaten<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons water<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 350°F with rack in middle. Soak bread crumbs in milk in a large bowl. Meanwhile, cook celery, carrot, onion, and garlic with chile powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt in oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10 minutes. Add to bread-crumb mixture with turkey, crushed pineapple, parsley, 1 tablespoon pineapple juice, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, 1 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and mix with your hands until just combined. Form into a 9- by 5-inch oval loaf (mixture will spread slightly) in a 13- by 9-inch shallow baking dish. Stir together water, remaining 2 tablespoons pineapple juice, and remaining 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce and brush over surface of meatloaf. Bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted into center registers 165°F, 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My notes: I’ve tweaked this recipe (of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Couldn’t help myself!), yet tried to leave the directions alone, as much as possible. But, I do want to relate a HUGE time-saver. If you have a food processor, use it to grind up those stale pieces of sandwich bread, empty it, then use it to chop up all the veggies and garlic. It saves you time plus those lovely onion tears!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-74832298896131419012011-12-16T13:45:00.000-08:002011-12-16T13:45:28.128-08:00Pretty PrioritiesI'd like to share a few of my favorite beauty products with you. I will be posting a couple tutorials in the future and a list of favorite personal products and tips. If you have any questions about the following products, please comment and ask! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W4Ka8xvNT9YjHbki70z4NrHG_b0wYhnIwjGAX_-YMwC4YKWqRtfi7mLKcn0BT0oS_pFMbSC0x09mxNX-0tNcSfUBbxdlB_apRVGAgXQsYvMHQu0bSxqgRrx9zD0MKaVzi-kGJEnKGGpi/s1600/makeup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W4Ka8xvNT9YjHbki70z4NrHG_b0wYhnIwjGAX_-YMwC4YKWqRtfi7mLKcn0BT0oS_pFMbSC0x09mxNX-0tNcSfUBbxdlB_apRVGAgXQsYvMHQu0bSxqgRrx9zD0MKaVzi-kGJEnKGGpi/s1600/makeup.png" /></a></div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-59008952575505896102011-12-15T13:06:00.000-08:002011-12-15T13:07:53.687-08:00Retro Sweetness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYXMZ4eGtKtfir0XFk82HjFrDXspenC8ZEby6UX1Ul8SgJQqlxgMk8G8M3-Ya9RJVs7VuO-1Y0a4xnJG-joXmxaaDnVWX8F24d1IiUIDAV694c-_H5gEQjiSVTYUwdIMgYKN270sUK97Ry/s640/elvis+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elvis Bars, my dears. The ultimate combination of chocolate, peanut butter and banana held together by oats. So, technically, this delight is gluten free. It's very easy to make, and will help you get rid of those over-ripened bananas. (As if you needed that excuse to try them...)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Elvis Bars (from food.com)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup (1/2 stick) softened butter<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup sugar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 mashed bananas <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3/4 cup smooth peanut butter <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 1/2 cups rolled oats<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2/3 cups chocolate chips<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease or spray an 8 x 8 inch baking pan and set aside. In a large mixing bowl combine the first 4 ingredients and cream together well. Add in the vanilla, stir, then add in the peanut butter. Stirring carefully so you don’t spill, work in all of the peanut butter until in is completely incorporated. </span><b><span style="color: #333333; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sprinkle the baking soda over the entire mixture, add in the oatmeal and chocolate chips and blend until well combined. Pour into the 8 x 8 baking pan and bake for 30-32 minutes. Top should be nice and brown and center will still be slightly wiggly/moist. Allow to cool completely before cutting into them.</span><b><span style="color: #333333; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-19561261461536160782011-12-12T10:26:00.000-08:002011-12-12T10:26:08.828-08:00Happy Monday!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thinking: How much I love Mondays! No, you didn’t read that wrong. I just love the opportunity to start another fresh week, with no mistakes. Yet. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m reading: I'm reading "Origin of Species" by Darwin. I will find this read particulary helpful and interesting, even if I don't agree. I will also be analyzing the "Romans 13" veiw of government for my Great Books class. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m listening to: Handel’s Messiah. I love that piece of music; my heart just soars when I hear the sopranos. *sigh*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>learning: To ask for forgiveness, even when I don’t see how I’m wrong. I know, in time, I will. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m watching: We watched “Shop Around the Corner” last night. That film is well-crafted, and has consequently become a Christmas tradition. On Rotten Tomatoes, it is rated 100% by critics, and 89% by audience. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What’s cooking: I’m thinking about baking up a batch of Banana Berry muffins. We have a lot of very ripe bananas, at the moment. (I will post that recipe in the next weeks!)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thankful for: Cozy socks. They are blessings on cold mornings, when you don’t want to get out of bed.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m creating: I am organizing underneath my bathroom sink this week. It needs a winter cleaning. Badly.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m praying: That the Lord would give my friends and I wisdom for the future. Growing up can be wonderful, yet scary and confusing, and right now I’m feelin’ the latter.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m planning: Well, I am looking forward to this week. We are attending the Messiah, plus celebrating Christmas as a family this Saturday. Family time is always appreciated. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I did this last weekend: Had a very productive Saturday (housecleaning, running, a long phonecall), plus a slow and relaxing Saturday. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m looking forward to: Christmas break. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">A picture to share: Found this series of photos formulated with food, with each picture representing a recipe. (I believe these were originally used in relation to IKEA, but can’t be sure.)</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRoQcK_qJP6QK1_c8dXs-YefUq3fte2LbhGf_ZmKYD_JSPWkrJXQL7oYfIWjTjKsaEaKVCunPPPUpkMXnJXVJOD_sJizBAaliMLYkUKv57w-jiM-io1s1I7mbFaKgIb7vMIstmiunt9DK/s1600/food-ikea_large.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRoQcK_qJP6QK1_c8dXs-YefUq3fte2LbhGf_ZmKYD_JSPWkrJXQL7oYfIWjTjKsaEaKVCunPPPUpkMXnJXVJOD_sJizBAaliMLYkUKv57w-jiM-io1s1I7mbFaKgIb7vMIstmiunt9DK/s400/food-ikea_large.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJTD1nRphVCROmvE3rQ833Uy-snqcwnn0d6lZwU5rctNNqHWKDdopo38sBhsIbsp5sxXQ2GxUnc7i7eS_2g6tj8og7Mt4eD75FAcfHLj6RusaGJHphnYXlYPs7hP4crB8RobfCluKykRK/s1600/ikea_cookbook31_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJTD1nRphVCROmvE3rQ833Uy-snqcwnn0d6lZwU5rctNNqHWKDdopo38sBhsIbsp5sxXQ2GxUnc7i7eS_2g6tj8og7Mt4eD75FAcfHLj6RusaGJHphnYXlYPs7hP4crB8RobfCluKykRK/s400/ikea_cookbook31_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rm3f_fbIzu93HaMsoaVVpL6egNy5ta_dfob99laefRzgYhXjrKk3tA1D6mXgapfhjzsymxSMBr9KJjZwnnIvg2bcjBVDK5KoWcp4hC-d6VXaL7oBdmpQWDhdPvJJifsAmW_M-B4KRCXb/s1600/ikea_nationaldagsbakelser_rec_0029_0_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rm3f_fbIzu93HaMsoaVVpL6egNy5ta_dfob99laefRzgYhXjrKk3tA1D6mXgapfhjzsymxSMBr9KJjZwnnIvg2bcjBVDK5KoWcp4hC-d6VXaL7oBdmpQWDhdPvJJifsAmW_M-B4KRCXb/s400/ikea_nationaldagsbakelser_rec_0029_0_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu0et9eKZBoAg9IH_YxASIl9SOF4c3Vc5xe5SAj7SpyBFtYEyji9rs-H3TSMAfqYen2FHyxlWkQToH5R_KCQD4HwS_AummXss2_uRVvryyh1_Gn623NFqVO3Or_2ChAPAEsoGfJoAo-cu/s1600/ikea-cookbook-image-2_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu0et9eKZBoAg9IH_YxASIl9SOF4c3Vc5xe5SAj7SpyBFtYEyji9rs-H3TSMAfqYen2FHyxlWkQToH5R_KCQD4HwS_AummXss2_uRVvryyh1_Gn623NFqVO3Or_2ChAPAEsoGfJoAo-cu/s400/ikea-cookbook-image-2_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-27609949036047822832011-12-05T10:58:00.000-08:002011-12-05T10:58:55.192-08:00Happy Monday!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thinking: The goodness of God…he has granted me one more day to glorify him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m reading: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Communist Manifesto! I’m really excited to read such an influential piece of literature.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m listening to: “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>learning: I am definitely “learning” to be strong in my physical and emotional weakness. Sometimes, it is hard to put one foot in front of the other.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m watching: My sisters and I watched “Beauty and the Beast” this last week, for the umpteenth time. I can finally sing the songs and recite just about all the lines.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What’s cooking: I am planning on making lemon chicken, quinoa, with roasted vegetables. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thankful for: My health. It is something I take for granted, but don’t deserve. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m creating: An outline for my thesis paper on Personal Political Philosophy.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m praying: That I would know what to say, how to say it, when to say it, and when to stop.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m planning: To begin preparing for the SAT; it’s looking like I will be taking it at the end of January.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I did this last weekend: Housecleaned, attended Youth Study (what a great time of growing in God’s word!), helped run a Women’s Tea for our church, and had a hectic Sunday (I had nursery duty, Sunday school duty, plus impromptu fellowship meal duty). I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve the body of Christ! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m looking forward to: A nap. I hope. Soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A picture to share: I love this picture of my sisters and I, even though it’s an oldie from ’08.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQVTzv_IlC86xamGvlKHpHgu3Gn2v6ZGA5Q_HRBA4htciKSh4p_Xg_ydUcXBnP6paB0om71FNzQj4Oa2yHHSN0JN4qOoBLTXvihRPIbYgs1UkB0m7xwzHKkCTDXfavV4kUpRd7a25hPwQ/s1600/P9200340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQVTzv_IlC86xamGvlKHpHgu3Gn2v6ZGA5Q_HRBA4htciKSh4p_Xg_ydUcXBnP6paB0om71FNzQj4Oa2yHHSN0JN4qOoBLTXvihRPIbYgs1UkB0m7xwzHKkCTDXfavV4kUpRd7a25hPwQ/s400/P9200340.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-38799703387511163662011-12-01T20:09:00.000-08:002011-12-01T20:09:06.604-08:00Easy Spinach Soufflé<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqp8n5v1W9vajS_EOL63K-2AcI-XOuiyE04PR7qoBw521XRyiAQbEjRIvGZKg2FF_7wN435u-CzN6YQ3bTzGDdqteTjtc3UVMhQBVgpAf4OMB-3QXtj8B4AvHs1tZ2ubIVaXIThR0kq3x/s1600/4880619891_505c5f477a_z_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqp8n5v1W9vajS_EOL63K-2AcI-XOuiyE04PR7qoBw521XRyiAQbEjRIvGZKg2FF_7wN435u-CzN6YQ3bTzGDdqteTjtc3UVMhQBVgpAf4OMB-3QXtj8B4AvHs1tZ2ubIVaXIThR0kq3x/s1600/4880619891_505c5f477a_z_large.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This recipe is one of my favorites, and that's saying something. It has a wonderful texture, flavor, and, as a bonus, is very healthy! It's super easy, especially since a blender is involved...and the leftovers ain't bad. Ok, I'm going to stop my encomiums, and let you try it.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Easy</strong> <strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Spinach <span>Soufflé</span></span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span></span></span></strong>4 eggs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups milk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. nutmeg</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup shredded mozzerella </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">20 oz. package of frozen spinach</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp. dried minced onion</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">+ additional cheese of your choice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Preheat oven to 350 F. Throw all ingredients (except for additional cheese) in blender, or, if they don't fit, blend in two batches. Pour into an 8x8 (2 quart) pan. Sprinkle with addition cheese; bake for 45-50 minutes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. I will be making a cookie video tutorial in the near future. Comment and let me know which cookie you would like to see featured!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-65075135547645170282011-11-29T17:26:00.000-08:002011-11-29T17:27:34.714-08:00Blank (and sweet!) Canvas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2fut9ubZdp5AOZ7njgFi9Fj46XXC6F7YvVDGlnCGw7B07hywGQ9pCx6TXoMjXNs6_3NsTKYDkleRtrnqO1qFol6Azp7WQaOxgeWvB7L3QiHVbv8msTHONulAaW5PSw47RIDeGGhhv_vF/s1600/tumblr_lhuwe8lVGg1qadrneo1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2fut9ubZdp5AOZ7njgFi9Fj46XXC6F7YvVDGlnCGw7B07hywGQ9pCx6TXoMjXNs6_3NsTKYDkleRtrnqO1qFol6Azp7WQaOxgeWvB7L3QiHVbv8msTHONulAaW5PSw47RIDeGGhhv_vF/s1600/tumblr_lhuwe8lVGg1qadrneo1_500_large.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today, I'm sharing two tested cookie bases--wonderful venues for creativity! Add whatever mix-ins you enjoy: chocolate chips, heath, raisins, nuts, peanut butter, etc. If you can't think of any ideas, the little ones will obligingly give their two bits, ahem, two chips. (Note: The oatmeal cookie base makes A LOT of cookies. 162 to be exact.)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oatmeal Cookie Base<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 cups <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">butter, softened</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3/4 cup <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">butter-flavored shortening</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3-1/4 cups <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">packed brown sugar</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1-1/4 cups <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">sugar</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5 eggs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2/3 cup <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">buttermilk</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6 cups <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">quick-cooking oats</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5-3/4 cups <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">all-purpose flour</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tablespoon <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">baking soda</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2-1/2 teaspoons <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">salt<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In a very large bowl, cream the butter, shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, buttermilk and vanilla. Combine the oats, flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks.<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> Yield: </span>about 13-1/2 dozen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plain Cookie Base<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup packed dark brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup granulated sugar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoons corn syrup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon <span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">vanilla extract</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 <span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">large egg</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon kosher salt<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.25pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-outline-level: 4;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Heat oven to 375° F. With an electric mixer on medium-high, beat the butter, brown and granulated sugars, corn syrup, and vanilla for 3 minutes. Add the egg and beat until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add the flour mixture to the egg mixture. Add ingredients for a variation of your choice; form the dough into tablespoon-size mounds. Place on greased baking sheets, 2 inches apart. Bake until lightly browned at the edges, 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Transfer the cookies to wire racks. Cool completely. Yield: 40 cookies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-914549194358664032011-11-28T10:53:00.000-08:002011-11-28T10:55:13.161-08:00Happy Monday!<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thinking: I’m thinking about the diversity of human personalities—I know. But, if you think about it, it is fascinating. It just can’t be explained away by a big bang. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m reading: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m reading a collection of American papers including The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, Emancipation Proclamation, Gettysburg Address, Patrick Henry’s famous “Give Me Liberty or Give <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Me Death”, etc. I am amazed at the genius of these men.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m listening to: I’m not hearing or listening to anything, at the moment, but have been enjoying “With Me” by Sum 41; great song and lyrics.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>learning: I’ve discovered that lists and goals are essential, especially when one is busy.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m watching: We watched several movies last week, but my favorite was “Pursuit of Happyness”. That film was truly thought-provoking, with an incredible, tear-jerking performance by Will Smith.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What’s cooking: Made Chocolate Domingo Cake last night—too much butter and salt. I need to make notes on the recipe. (And I thought “The Cake Bible” was infallible…) I also made two molasses pumpkin pies and a sugar-free cranberry relish. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thankful for: My wonderful family. They make me laugh; we are all so similar. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m creating: I created a giant to-do list last night. Huge. I shall go scream in a corner now.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m praying: That I will know how to pray! Truly. Thankfully. Thoughtfully. Fully. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m planning: I am planning on calling a dear friend, Miss J. She is so sweet, bubbly, and Christ-loving, but I haven’t talked to her in forever. I love old, faithful friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I did this last weekend: I did a small bit of shopping with my mother and sisters; physics, chores, and a long walk with my father on Saturday; Sunday was filled with worship and a long afternoon of laughter, food, and relaxation with a close friend. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m looking forward to: Girly time this week with my sisters and friends. I need a fix.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A picture to share: Recently, I have fallen in love with the photography skills of Annie Leibovitz. She is an amazing professional, a woman with an eye for lighting, coloring, and pure emotion. I am enraptured by her live Disney portrait spreads. Here is her version of Belle and the transformed prince…<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcLLb2lWuOWCfDP7n5wSVuXOLZdJyhzCz2m0gtufqD5Hv2KOF46q6Z4bNz-YI5hyphenhyphennNK1tnity-Sgt3DOxNgCNerDr7Usz3c6DUUN-srnFUFvqQHihhd9rB2XgY_huR6ncPwOOH41928VU/s640/slide_17953_248687_huge.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-42106022039692210102011-11-15T17:07:00.000-08:002011-11-15T17:09:53.007-08:00Baked Oatmeal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PIP32dhdOeZif1_rR3M5_1sTayxeOvI-XFFUTleS9yahB3tLFYvKMeeWq2cI6NZDaXSQEmt_pZ68QcHEaeWLF3Q6HwIgeY8yFeRBNfs8UI6QN6k7Sgv8vTEQ4v-6i3jfTLqe3V9AqFjC/s1600/baby%252Ccute%252Cphotography-f59be153c3c282d44ecea8c65c122a03_h_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PIP32dhdOeZif1_rR3M5_1sTayxeOvI-XFFUTleS9yahB3tLFYvKMeeWq2cI6NZDaXSQEmt_pZ68QcHEaeWLF3Q6HwIgeY8yFeRBNfs8UI6QN6k7Sgv8vTEQ4v-6i3jfTLqe3V9AqFjC/s1600/baby%252Ccute%252Cphotography-f59be153c3c282d44ecea8c65c122a03_h_large.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Love this breakfast dish—even my sisters, who don’t like oatmeal, enjoy this. Try it; it’s also nice for brunch.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups rolled oats <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/2 cup almond pieces, toasted and chopped <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/3 cup cane sugar or maple syrup, plus more for serving <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scant 1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 cups milk <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 large egg <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled slightly <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 ripe bananas, cut into 1/2-inch chunks<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 1/2 cups strawberries and blueberries (I use frozen) or dried cherries and raisins<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat the oven to 375°F/190°C with a rack in the top third of the oven. Generously butter the inside of an 8-inch square baking dish. In a bowl, mix together the oats, half the walnuts, the sugar, if using, the baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, if using, the milk, egg, butter, and the vanilla. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Arrange the bananas in a single layer in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle two-thirds of the berries over the top. Cover the fruit with the oat mixture. Slowly drizzle the milk mixture over the oats. Gently give the baking dish a couple thwacks on the countertop to make sure the milk moves through the oats. Scatter the remaining berries and remaining walnuts across the top. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the top is nicely golden and the oat mixture has set. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with a bit more sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if you want it a bit sweeter. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-20659794164476063042011-11-14T10:36:00.000-08:002011-11-14T10:47:04.461-08:00Happy Monday!<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thinking: How wonderful forgiveness is!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is truly amazing to me, that God can (and does) forgive every one of my thousands of sins. I need to emulate that kind of long-suffering.<o:p></o:p> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m reading: I’m reading “The Social Contract” by Jean-Jacques Rousseau. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m listening to: I’m listening to my sisters talking the next room, and the washer and dryer running (laundry day). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>learning: Well, I won’t talk about *everything*, just the most interesting. In my math, I’m learning about advanced trigonometric identities and triangle inequalities, while my current physics module is all about two dimensional motion. On the other hand, I am <em>not </em>enamored with significant numbers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m watching: Last week, we watched “Hunt For the Red October” with Sean Connery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was well-made and suspenseful, as long as you made it past the first (not-so-intriguing) 15 minutes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What’s cooking: I baked pumpkin maple cranberry muffins last weekend. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m thankful for: My hairbrush. Especially this morning.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m creating: Not sure if this counts, but I will be “creating”/organizing my closet today. It is scary, exacerbated by the fact that it has been around 7 months since the last cleaning.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m praying: That the Lord will help me to know and understand what my priorities are, or what they should be. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m planning: I’m mentally planning a very long talk with my Mother. I need those sometimes, and this week would be nice.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I did this last weekend: Our church’s Youth Group met this last weekend; I am immensely enjoyed the discussion that sparked from Romans. It is a wonderful book. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’m looking forward to: Thanksgiving break. I really love school, but a lighter week helps me to breath. Breathing is beneficial, I believe.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">A picture to share: I’m sorry. I had to share one of my recent obsessions, namely, these glorious cinnamon rolls formulated by Rosie, author (and genius) behind the blog Sweetapolita. </span><a href="http://sweetapolita.com/2011/03/cinnabon-style-gourmet-cinnamon-buns/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">http://sweetapolita.com/2011/03/cinnabon-style-gourmet-cinnamon-buns/</span></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRyAUDbyOnafrpYt_Ca_f4QtnK1HznvbyWSk4S4Bq9GhjeEOfvqTApfcRMv9kPjyjJnkL8cXgEaDwS0dAWmDEx6OlPxT0ZvAKkA_FmDRw3ju89wlpkAy5qB8M-Htqpm7SVQXYy6LeaBct/s1600/triolongcinnabon-731x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRyAUDbyOnafrpYt_Ca_f4QtnK1HznvbyWSk4S4Bq9GhjeEOfvqTApfcRMv9kPjyjJnkL8cXgEaDwS0dAWmDEx6OlPxT0ZvAKkA_FmDRw3ju89wlpkAy5qB8M-Htqpm7SVQXYy6LeaBct/s320/triolongcinnabon-731x1024.jpg" width="228" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7376241888019649981.post-2051331385152185202011-11-13T05:53:00.000-08:002011-11-13T05:53:46.231-08:00Just Because...I've already started one blog this last weekend, but I thought I would start another to channel all my other interests. This will be my "fun" blog. <br />
<br />
Ever heard of stop-motion film? This cute video is a classic example--and, personally, I do think that all those little buttons, earrings, nails, and pins do live under my house. They purposefully evade me. I know it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mwX7uEiEWx4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Sarah Van Der Lindenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02071305846968509596noreply@blogger.com0