Snippets

Random bits

Cookery Books

My family and I spent last week in the great Up North. We have a cabin on the Tahquamenon River, where it is tranquil, rustic, and a sincere connection to times past. There is nothing like cooking over a campfire (and maybe a stroll around Mackinac Island in a horse drawn carriage) to make me think of how our ancestors cooked much the same way not so long ago. To commemorate my trip I purchased a newer print of an old cookbook, Early American Cookery or Ye Gentlewoman’s Housewifery, by Margaret Huntington Hooker. I was very curious to see what kinds of recipes were made over 100 years ago. The author even referred to previous ‘cookery’ books as early as 1736. Obviously some things have changed, but we’re both using fire and cast iron!

I was actually amazed that they had so much access to a variety of spices and herbs. For whatever reason of my limited knowledge, I am impressed to learn they cooked with Marjoram, ‘Tumeric’, ‘Gynger’, Summer Savory (I don’t even know what that is), Parsley, Thyme, Laurel, Sweet Basil, Mint, Cloves, Cinnamon, ‘Garlek,’ Mace, and so on to name a few. I guess I imagined things being bland. The author refers many foods I can relate to soups, anchovies and ‘tomata sauce.’ And although the language is before my time and measurements aren’t always given, many of the techniques still apply. For example “a piece of butter rolled in flour…” They were making a roux!

Of course some things were totally un-relatable to me. I can’t imagine giving an eel a salt rub to remove the slime. And although I know people still cook eel today, I actually have a hard time imagining that it was ever common practice. I understand using all parts of the animal and making the most of what you have. That stated, it is completely foreign to me to put a “neck of mutton about 6 pounds…” into any of my recipes. I mean, they just say it so nonchalantly. Was that the norm neck size? Just about 6 pounds? Do they just assume it has been de-haired? In another mutton recipe they instruct to put the “head, heart and lights and 1 pound pork into 5 quarts of water…” Lights? What are the lights? If I had to guess, I’d say the eyes; which leads me to believe that again they assume I know what to do with the head, i.e. de-furring, removing parts, etc. After an hour of boiling you add the liver, and a while later one finishes it off with some doughy dumplings before serving. And I’m wondering if the head is still in there? Does it dissipate? Because I think my kids would freak out. I, myself, can barely stand the thought of bouillabaisse. I mean, I’ve made leg if lamb, but this is on another level. So I think to myself, we are so far removed.

At the same time I am starting to read a suggestion from one of my blog readers and friend, A Girl and Her Pig by April Bloomfield. Now here is a current and up to date cookbook. In this book she acknowledges celebrities like Jay Z, okay; modern. And as I am reading the forward of the book the writer that assists Chef April Bloomfield mentions a cumin-spiked tomato sauce and filleting anchovies; and again I am struck by the similarities. Then, I kid you not, they write “…a peek into the oven to check on a roasting lamb’s head.” Maybe it’s just me?

Born on the 4th of July

My grandma was born on the 4th of July. There was a time in her early life when I believe she thought all of the hoopla was all a part of her celebration. And although I am largely patriotic and enjoy all of the red, white and blue, I can’t have a fourth of July without thinking about my grandma.

13

My grandmother was a renaissance woman. And in memory of her this time of year, here’s a little about grandma… Early on in her life, there was no father figure around. And my great-grandmother (GG) took it upon herself to raise and provide for her three children. As soon as my grandmother was able, she also took on the responsibility to help, and she pretty much worked ever since. She wasn’t the type of grandma you imagine standing over the stove, stirring her secret sauce. In fact, she had a reputation for burning everything and GG did most of the cooking. My grandma was different, and perfect. At a young age she would collect left over cobs of corn from a mill to bring food home to her mother and siblings. She worked in a potato chip factory, in Detroit, MI. And she recalled that every once in a while a potato would come down the line at Lay’s that had missed the process, baked and seasoned; she shared, it was a real treat. Later she took a job at Vernor’s in Detroit. Eventually they had enough money and she and GG bought their own house. They were proud to have owned the deed to their own home, and by the time my grandpa came around, she was quite self sufficient.

Aunt Becky (my mother's sister), Grandma and my mother.

Aunt Becky (my mother’s sister), Grandma and my mother.

She gave great beauty tips: Never pull on the skin under your eye, it will give you wrinkles; Brush your hair upside down (over your head) to make your hair grow thick and longer; Tap your nails to make them stronger; Use caution ever putting oil on your face, it makes your pores big… but sometimes you should use a little vitamin E on it. She had great skin. She wore scarves in her hair, which she always died dark brown. She loved to be comfortable. She would cut, move, and tape any shoe, seat belt or shirt to be worn with more ease. She always carried breath mints and gum; which she chewed half of a piece at a time.

19

When she was upset she would say “Oh beans,” and if she heard something shocking she would say “Good night;” except ‘good’ had two syllables. When she laughed hard she would throw her head back. She was adorable.

8

My Grandma, kneeling with her girls along with my grandfather. ‘GG’ in the upper right.

She had an amazing garden. It was huge and productive. She canned her own green beans, tomatoes, along with other vegetables and the best grape jelly that I’m sorry you never got to taste. She could eat an onion like an apple. She was into trying to eat your vitamins through food, and taking vitamins… before it was a fad. She had a subscription to Prevention magazine. If she were around today I’m sure she’d be an advocate for eating organic and avoiding GMO’s.

10

My grandma started every day with black coffee and fell asleep every night listening to tapes of someone reading Bible scriptures. She was extremely devoted to God, and His son, her personal Lord and Savior, Jesus. She sang hymns around the house. She had a big heart, and when her sister was unable to care for her children my grandma raised two nieces and a nephew as well as her own.

4

Every year on the 4th of July we would celebrate her birthday, and as a child I would ask “How old are you grandma?” And every year her response was the same, “Twenty-nine.”

Grandma on the right, eating cake.

Grandma on the right, eating cake.

She would have been 29 today. ?

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

The Birthday Circus

Okay, so this is a party that took place a little while ago. But it’s still a good’n. So I’ll share! We had a circus themed party for Elijah’s 1st birthday and it turned out really cute (if I do say so myself). For the first birthday of every child it is a tradition, in my extended family, to go big. Too bad, the child won’t remember… but we’ve got the pictures to remind him! The pool area was colorful, complete with cotton candy maker.

IMG_3146

Outside the tables had circus fare of potato chips and peanuts in the shell. Inside, the table was full of cupcakes with Elijah’s picture. (An idea I got from a magazine.)

IMG_3153

Our clown didn’t come through (text book), so dad pulled through like a champ… and still grilled the hot dogs! (Please pay no attention to the fence that needs mending. Thank you, you’re very kind.)

IMG_3182

Of course we had face painting!

IMG_3168

And photo ops!

IMG_3138

IMG_3262

IMG_3254

(They get me every time!) We also had a slushy truck…

IMG_3190

IMG_3202

And a popcorn machine, to make the house smell legit.

IMG_3162

The kids took home a goody box complete with clown noses, candy and circus tattoos.

IMG_3160

IMG_3265 - Copy

The day was a success! (And we take that very seriously, apparently.)

IMG_3249

Up North

What is Up North? It’s so vague, right? …And yet so specific. To a Michigander, like me it’s a state of mind, full of pine trees, often a water source and sand, fresh air and outdoor activities. Literally I think many people consider a certain point on I75, maybe somewhere around Gaylord where all of the sudden when you reach that point, you are ‘up north.’ Of course there is further north, all the way in the Upper Peninsula. Regardless of your classification, I think everyone can agree that they love up north. Oh my goodness; Sand dunes, boat rides, fishing trips, canoes, kayaks, hikes through the woods, campfires, hot dogs, s’mores, turtles, seagulls, deer, squirrels and chipmunks… to name a few associated words. And if you’ve experienced this, then you probably also can imagine the sounds of leaves rustling in the breeze, the crunch of twigs and leaves under your feet or those of the woodland animals, the smell of the smoke from last nights fire, the sound of rippling waves and the splash of fish and frog jumping in the water. (Block out the mosquitoes.) And you’re there, and you really want to be there… you know. That’s it alright. Up North.

Allergy Induced Eczema?

About two weeks after my son was born, he began to develop a red sandpaper like rash on his face. Our pediatrician said it looked like eczema and suggested moisturizing the area with Aquafor. A week later, his scalp and side-burn areas of his face were secreting a yellow discharge of some sort, along with the persistent rash still on his face. To the doctor’s eye it looked like “cradle cap gone wild” and she suggested an over the counter dandruff shampoo. Sadly, this only seemed to inflame the rash, and things were getting dismal. In the mean time we were trying everything we could find, by research and suggestion, to no avail. Aveeno Baby Eczema lotion, Eucerin Baby Eczema lotion, organic coconut oil (a natural anti-fungal moisturizer,) cotton clothing only, no contact with perfumes or dyes, hypoallergenic all natural baby soaps, etc., no matter what we tried, he was getting progressively worse. (Warning: some of these pictures might be disturbing.)

image

Food allergies were ruled out at this time because the affected area was limited to his face and scalp, so if it were allergy related at all, it seemed to be something he was coming into contact with. By eight weeks old he was oozing so profoundly from his head that I was changing his saturated (around the neck) clothing and cloth diapers, we kept under him as a cotton barrier, three times a night. We decided to take him to a pediatric dermatologist. Thankfully, we live not too far from the University of Michigan hospital. We called through Mott’s, the children hospital and set up an appointment.

image

I was hopeful as the resident was asking questions about his health. I relayed every bit of information I could think of. “No, he didn’t look like this at birth. Yes, he has been exposed to illness; his siblings are on antibiotics for strep throat. Yes, he did have an antibiotic at about 4 weeks for dark green boogers. Yes, the condition has begun to spread onto his shoulders and leg…” Two more doctors came in, examined him from head to toe and discussed his condition. They decided it was atopic dermatitis (eczema) and sent us home with a topical steroid and an oral antibiotic. It was a 10 day treatment with a follow-up in about 2 weeks.

image

Relieved to have expert diagnosis, we started the regimen. To my great relief he started to improve within 24 hours. By two days he looked clear, and we seemed to have gotten through it! Whew, what a nightmare! But by day four into our new routine, his face began to break out. By day seven he looked about the same as when we had brought him in. We were back to constant surveillance, never to be left unattended for his incessant scratching. Well, thankfully, we had this scheduled follow-up appointment.

image

Upon our return to the U of M Dermatology department, we were again questioned by a new resident and examined by two new physicians (apparently one of our first doctors was on vacation). They discussed in Latin terms amongst themselves, what they thought was going on. They apologized for any rudeness. Whatever, I mean do your thing. Just help my baby, and I’m good. It was decided that he had two overlapping conditions, the afore mentioned atopic dermatitis and a seborrheic dermatitis (in the family of cradle cap). Ok, just tell me what I need to do. In addition to the topical steroid, they added an anti-fungal lotion and shampoo and sent us home, no follow-up necessary.

image

Immediately upon first application of our new products, Noah had a crazy reaction. His redness and irritation was magnified. And that’s when it dawned on me; they don’t know what’s going on with him. They’re just guessing! So, what am I doing to my son? Experimenting? I was completely depleted and very worried. (Disclaimer: I believe the U of M Health Systems is loaded with talented doctors that do much good. This is just my experience as one of their patients.) I decided I should call their office and let them know what happened. The woman who answered the phone said most of the physicians had left for the day, and advised me to stop treatment (the best advice given out of that whole office). She let me know that someone from the Dermatology department would call me the following day. The next day a resident did call me back; I explained what happened and asked him his thoughts. He replied that he had not seen Noah, and couldn’t say. Okay, well certainly he must have our file with the opinions of his colleagues in front of him. So, I continued to say that Noah had been diagnosed with atopic and seborrheic dermatitis and I was wondering if the anti-fungal treatment for the ‘seborriheic,’ however it’s pronounced, could have upset the ‘atopic’ part. I mean, that seems pretty straight forward to me, right? I assume he did go to medical school after all. But nope, he couldn’t answer that either without having seen him. Well then why (I thought to myself) couldn’t one of the two other residents or four residing physicians that had seen him have called me back??? Next, I kid you not, he asked in the most dismissive way “So, what would you like to do? Make an appointment?” I answered that I guessed so, to which he stated “I’ll have the scheduling department give you a call.” By the time they called, I had changed my mind.

image

Noah was now three months old, and no better. I made an appointment with our family dermatologist who it first glance said Noah is allergic to something you are eating. She advised that I stop nursing- to be continued later, and introduce a non-dairy hypoallergenic formula (Nutramigen) into his diet. She recommended that we also add probiotic into his diet, due to the antibiotics he had been given in his short amount of being, and suggested adding a small amount of hemp oil into his bottles to start moisturizing from the inside out. And although I was heart broken about possibly being the source of his problem, I appreciated the less abrasive approach. She asked about his stool, no one had done that before either. Yes, it was a mucous type diarrhea since birth, unlike the ‘mustard curds’ of my previous children. Why hadn’t I thought of that before? She explained that what is going on in the tissue outside of his body was happening on the inside too. That made sense, duh!

To speed things along, I will say that even with the strides made, my son was still in a bad condition. It seemed hopeless. At this point we were struggling to grow skin on his cheeks. His skin tissue was in such disrepair that the slightest wipe from his mitted hands would scrape it off. It was an endless cycle. It was at this time my dear friend, saw an article with a picture of a baby girl, whose face looked just like Noah’s. The doctors at Children’s Hospital in Detroit had diagnosed her with a milk allergy and staph infection. Detroit? That was practically in our back yard! We took him there the next morning.

image

Right away, the ER department took a culture of his skin. They were surprised that it hadn’t been done before, and so were we. Sure enough, Noah tested positive for a staph infection. Thankfully it was a common strep, the type that can be found on most normal skin, and easily treatable. It’s just that he had no barrier on his skin. As it turns out (from blood tests, also not previously done) he also had an extremely weak immune system and is highly allergenic.

By doing extensive (heartbreaking) testing, they doctors at Children’s Hospital were able to eliminate life-threatening illnesses (that I don’t even want to mention and am well aware there are many children unfairly suffering from) and less serious conditions, such as a zinc deficiency. We are continuing to work with dermatologists, allergists, etc. and Noah seems to be stabilized. He is by no means out of the woods, so to speak, but he is not getting worse and alas that is progress.

I wish I could describe this happy ending full of great results. Unfortunately, it seems that it is very difficult to determine allergies at his age, and truly is a trial by error situation. So, for the time being he gets a daily bath or more (of just water, no soap, no bleach), and moisturized (by vasoline, which yes, is petroleum based, but is 1 ingredient to simplify things) from head to toe several times a day. He takes allergy medicine around the clock and gets topical steroids and a topical antibiotic as needed. I brush my teeth one handed, vacuum with the Bjorn, and swaddle him to change his brother’s diaper. My four year old daughter holds his hands, while I run to the bathroom and I schedule my showers by visits from grandparents. I cut his fingernails and change bed sheets every three days. I literally sleep holding his hands, and still wake up in a panic that he has scratched his face. (As a side note, related to allergens and sleeping: have you ever seen those blown up pictures of dust mites? Whoa, that’s enough to give a grown woman nightmares! Change your sheets people, just sayin’)

IMG_4695

For what it’s worth, this is my story. We do have some better days than others. I am perplexed that in this day and age, they still don’t have answers or remedies for things like this. And I am resigned to the fact that God has us going through this trial for a reason. So for now, we just keep on keeping on. I have been told that many children are able to grow out of this, and I am remaining optimistic. If anyone can relate, I hope you can find solace in knowing that you are not alone. If anyone has knowledge and experience to share, my ears are wide open!

Burnt Popcorn

My Grandma Curtis was a real pioneer. She was not a pioneer in the prairie way, it was more of an unconventional progressive way. My great-grandfather, whom I never met, was not around. My great-grandmother was a hard working self sufficient mother of three and, as the story goes, better off without him. (However, they never got a divorce or married another, and I believe she truly loved my great-grandfather). Now, my grandma got her can do spirit from her mother I’m sure. And she worked very hard to provide for herself and eventually her mother. For, she said, “their hearts beat as one.”

All of this independence and achievement, however, left very little time in the kitchen. She wasn’t the type of grandma to have freshly baked cookies in the oven or to pass on her secret recipe on how to make- anything. Regardless, I have very fond memories of sitting at her kitchen table and talking with her (mostly about Jesus) over perfectly sweet homemade grape jelly and burnt toast. Actually, she was notorious, in our family, for burning everything she cooked. Whether it was toast, popcorn or pecan pie, grandma had a way of slightly blackening everything. And perhaps it truly is my love for my grandmother and the precious time she spent with me, but I liked it!

In fact, even now, I prefer my popcorn burnt. I know most people think it’s gross. Yes, it stinks up the whole house. (Ideally, I should do it on a beautiful day so I can open the windows.) But, I can’t help it. It’s right up there with the crispy cheese corner of lasagna and the sticky charred sauce on BBQ grilled chicken.

Nora Fleming Ware

I am crazy about Nora Fleming. I think her idea for one dish that is interchangeable for any occasion is brilliant. It’s perfect for entertaining because you just have to store one (or two…) dishes! Then you change your ornament to fit the occasion! And they are so cute. The day I stumbled upon these in a Von Maur department store, I played in their gift department for over an hour. I hadn’t had that much fun playing since Barbie. I think I placed every ornament into every dish. And every time I got equally excited. The platters are great for bringing your dish to a party, you can instantly match the event or ‘label’ your dish so people know what it is. Of course, the Fourth of July is approaching so the flag is perfect. If you are bringing veggies, use the adorable artichoke. What’s your event? Christmas? Just put in the stocking, or Santa cap, or reindeer or holly & berries ornament. Thanksgiving? There is a turkey for that, or the cute pumpkins, which you could use all fall long. Mother’s Day? She made a darling pink flower, which you could also use for a shower or just spring. Or for spring use the bird, or the nest with eggs… or the butterfly!

IMG_4764

Birthday Party? They have a really cute colorful party hat.

IMG_3153

BBQ? Use the hamburger or the ketchup and mustard.

IMG_5976

Strawberry Themed Shower…or Fruit platter?

IMG_5518

I have to stop. I could get really carried away.

For more information: http://www.norafleming.com

Happy Father’s Day

I have a great dad. Let’s face it, I’m a daddy’s girl. I always have been. My dad is the best coach, cheerleader and teammate ever; as in “I’ll teach you everything I know. I’m proud of you. And we’re in this together, you are not alone.” He is very patient, extremely generous and a great listener. He has been a great example of a husband and father. I could get really choked up talking about my dad. God has blessed me greatly. He is also the best to cook for. He’ll try anything. 

Now I think my husband is a great father. But he’s not my dad… So from the horses’ (or kid’s) mouth’s;

(BTW getting an interview out of them is like pulling teeth)…

Naomi, our 4 year old says “He’s sweet and kind. He’s a good dad. He is my twin.”

Isaiah, age 9, says “He’s very nice.” Really. That’s all I could get out of him.

Elijah is two, he said “He plays with us. I took my shoes off. God loves daddy.”

Noah, the baby, was sleeping so I could jot this down. Of course if he could talk, I’m sure he’d say something deeply profound.

image

Steve is Owen’s dad. He’s pensive, dependable and loyal. He’s always willing to help. He loves his children and grandchildren, all nine of them! Many people have issues with their in-laws, not me; he is a great father-in-law.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads!

Reality

It has been brought to my attention that there may not be enough drama on my blog. Somehow this has equated to being not relate-able. You want a little more reality? Here it is…
My throat hurts, bad; like on fire! I’m pretty sure I was running a fever last night, I know I had the chills. If I had a job that required attendance by employer, I would call in sick. But I’m a mom. I don’t have that option. My arm feels like it’s going to fall off. My infant has a crazy skin rash condition. It makes him want to scratch his face off and remove both of his ears. He has to be under constant surveillance, usually held in restraint. I should have biceps like Angela Bassett.

My two year old is never full. He is constantly asking for snacks. He’s hungry after he eats breakfast. (And I mean a breakfast that would fill you). I make him wait an hour, full of begging mind you, until I let him have a yogurt. And then he’ll ask for a snack. I’m not kidding this is my day. He also poops as much as he eats, which means I ask my four year old daughter to watch the baby (to keep him from removing his cheeks) while I change at least 4-5 poopy diapers, on a child who by most standards should be potty trained. (This doesn’t include his wet ones or any of his brother’s.)

My infant who is now 7 months old, still doesn’t sleep through the night, so neither do I. I’m exhausted! And every time we take him out people stare at him like he’s a freak. Honestly, you should have seen him two months ago! We have taken him to over a dozen doctors, including the University of Michigan, Motts and Children’s Hospital in Detroit. I’ve had my fill of suggestions and unsolicited advice. (Actually if you had a good idea, I’d consider it. Don’t mind me right now.) I’m tired of explaining the situation at the grocery store. And because I’m a mom, I still have guilt, so I rationalize with things like “at least they see the other kids look ok, so I hope they don’t think we are totally neglectful.” He’s drinking goat’s milk now, so I get to carry another bag around to keep it chilled. Awesome.

My third grader learned more about anatomy and life from friends this year than I think I knew in high school. Thank you parents for being so open with your kids! Could you ask them not to share until the other kids parents are ready to talk to their own children? My kids don’t believe in Santa, I’ve asked them not to tell your kids. (I believe I do owe an apology to one family member that comes to mind, very sorry.)

Talking about food on a blog makes me think about food more. I also want to try more food when I’m out for inspiration on new recipes. I can see this wreaking havoc on the waistline. I’m certain that’s why I read so much about fennel greens topped with lemon juice and fitbits. I get it, but I’m not there, yet. That’s not how my family eats. Am I frustrated that my pants are tight? Absolutely. And I’d like to have a doughnut, please.

I don’t like the #hashtag #game. I’d rather #read an #article than all of your score signs. But I suppose that’s how to #getahead in the #blog world? Hey #mommybloggers #nominate @sadiesnest for #keepingitreal

My husband is great in the supporting department. He’s a great dad. Just know while he’s making ‘dude perfect’ videos, I’m making dinner or cleaning it up, or catching up on dishes and laundry, it’s a vicious cycle. But that’s okay, because they come with my husband and kids… and I love my family!

Well I hope you enjoyed my venting session, free of charge. Is this relate-able? The truth is I love my happy blog. I take every picture, write every story and make every recipe (unless credited otherwise), so it’s very real to me… Except it’s a wonderful distraction from my reality.