Loving Lately

Loving Lately ??

Loving Lately: Fourth of July Ideas

I love the 4th of July. It is red, white & blue, backyard BBQ’s, summer weather and fireworks. Yes, it’s the day we celebrate our independence (for which I am grateful). It also has become everything I associate with a holiday; annual gatherings with family and food with aromas specific to the day. I’m a sucker for flag cakes and sparklers, and I succumb to the bug spray and driving home late- because I am all in baby! (Featured image courtesy of thewinthropcronicles.com)

Let’s just start the day off right. Breakfast anyone? Patriotic Waffle image courtesy of ModernParentsMessyKids.com

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Decorating for the 4th of July can be easy.

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Courtesy of Pinterest

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Courtesy of Pinterest

Dressing for the holiday can get as creative as American Pie…

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Image courtesy of Pinterest

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Courtesy of Pinterest

Speaking of which, is it possible to have too many pies for a holiday? I think not.

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For 4th of July Blueberry Pie check out betsylife.com

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Courtesy of Land O’Lakes

Oh my goodness, then there is cake! How cute are these berry drippings?

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Image courtesy of tasteofhome.com

I think I could handle this 4th of July Sparkle Cake, and can I just tell you how much I love the rustic simplicity of it?

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Image courtesy of Pinterest

Then you’ve got your traditional make the flag out of berries cakes.

While some 4th of July ideas are timeless… some are new to me. I mean I’ve seen the red, white and blue rocket ship popsicle; But I wish I was this creative! Homemade striped popsicles!!!?? I think you’re awesome!

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Popsicle image courtesy of theviewfromgreatisland

Of course if you are looking for a simple idea to make a statement try this… (yes it’s Sangria, but I think it would look pretty in water too!)

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Courtesy of Pinterest

If you can carve a pumpkin maybe…?

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Image courtesy of bhg.com

The crafty folks out there might want to try this jar made patriotic candle holder project from CountryLiving.com…

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Of course you can’t beat this classic sparkler activity for kids and adults alike!

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Image courtesy of Huffington Post

But more than anything, please be safe, enjoy your family & friends and have a Happy 4th of July!

American flag and fireworks

American flag and fireworks image courtesy of Pinterest

Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: Good

Our world is in a sad state. When something horrific happens it seems like one who comments (i.e. a blogger such as myself) should comment. I put temporary pressure on my shoulders to report the news, or my perspective thereof, as if I have some responsibility as a dutiful journalist. The truth is since I’m not on the front lines, I would actually just be spouting off my opinions about second hand information (which I am also tempted to do). Of course, I don’t want to seem cold or impervious by not saying anything. And then, after some reflection, I remind myself of what I’m doing. My purpose for doing this. I want to focus on the good. It doesn’t mean I have my head in the sand, or I am oblivious to what is going on. I believe with all my heart that there is a war between good and evil. It means I choose, make a conscience decision, to think about and share good.

I love that quote from Mister Rogers when addressing how to give explanation to children about the scary things that take place, ”My mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers — so many caring people in this world.” I read an article this week about Chick-Fil-A and many other restaurants who donated food to people who waited hours in line to donate blood to help the victims of the massacre. I read a beautiful post from a Muslim man who waited in one of those lines to donate blood, even though he had been fasting during Ramadan, because he wanted to do his part to show that the events that took place do not reflect his beliefs. There is good.

We can not make sense of senseless acts. People say “Be the change…”, I’m not sure that’s possible. As long as we are on earth there is going to be evil- in all of its forms. I want to be the difference. So I will continue to share things I love; my kids and family, recipes and food, gatherings and places… There are enough (even good) people sharing otherwise.

So here is a picture of a few peonies from my garden. I’m not sure if you knew this, but a few years ago my family and I purchased and moved into my grandparents home. After my grandmother passed it sat vacant for a couple years. It was hard to just “put on the market,” we all had too many good years and times here. Anyway, I’m sentimental that way and it worked out that we could. She left a beautiful rose garden and I always assumed all of the flowers that remained were by her. Not too long ago an uncle of mine told me that it was my grandfather who actually wanted the peony bushes. His mother had them while he was growing up, and they reminded him of her. Isn’t that beautiful? Of course, now it is my hope that when my children see peonies they think of me… And maybe one day they will tell their children… 😉

Loving Lately ☕

Loving Lately: A spot of tea

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We all know that I am a coffee person. But why limit yourself?

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I am also a long time drinker of tea.

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There’s really no replacement on a cold dreary evening… or when nursing a sore throat.

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The health benefits are really amazing actually.

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The knowledge of the art is extensive.

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It’s also a good reason to have a party.

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Tea is really a culture all of its own…

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Global even…

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But I like to keep it simple.

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Thank you Pinterest dearie, for once again providing me with photos to accompany my thoughts.

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Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: The Winds of Change

So, I took some more time off. I put the blog on autopilot, and continued to ponder the future of Sadie’s Nest.

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I’ve been really busy. We finally bought the camper… The kids have been sick…

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I had some great advice. A family member told me that if I enjoy blogging, I should keep doing it until I don’t, if that ever happens.

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Many of you were lovingly supportive, my loyal companions.

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So I’ve decided to continue my blogging adventure…

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Just keep it a little more laid back for the summer.

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I rewrote my about page (for the umpteenth time… what am I about anyway?).

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Thank you for continuing this journey with me! (And as usual thank you Pinterest for these images.)

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Love, Sadie

 

 

Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee

So when I started with my “Loving Lately” series I was certain I was going to share my favorite gadgets and ingredients. And I have to some extent. But I get so carried away with my enjoyment of pictures and places, that come Thursday it’s all I can think about… Until I’m struck (once again) by the best toffee ever. Let me reiterate. BEST. TOFFEE. EVER. I’ve tried a lot of toffee. Do you know my dad? And it’s not just because this toffee was made in Michigan (for which I am proud) or that it coincidentally share’s its name with my dad. I would have to acknowledge this toffee from anywhere, and with any name because it is AWESOME! And if you are not in Michigan or thereabouts, you can just B-line it for their website DavesSweetTooth.com. You’re welcome.

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Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: Lala-Land & Beautiful Things…

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I’ve been a little mentally unavailable.

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Distracted maybe, is a nice way to put it.

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And as some of you may have noticed… I’ve had technical difficulties.

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Coincidence? I think not.

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As this week celebrates my 1 year blog-iversary, I’ve been contemplating the future of Sadie’s Nest.

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My goal was to set out for one year. Mission Accomplished!

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Where it leads from here; I am uncertain. I’ve made so many wonderful friends! Good times…

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I have been nominated for awards that have not been acknowledged, blog-fully challenged and unresponsive, honored by a dear few without mention; I truly meant to reply, but time keeps slipping… So without further ado, as a small token of my appreciation to the following…

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A sincere Thank You!!

Anna of Life Bellissima

Lynn of Lynz Real Cooking

Roberta of Chorizo & Thyme

Katie of Quirky and Wonderful

Terry of Spearfruit

Antonia of Zoale

Natascha of Natascha’s Palace

Fabiola of My Heart of Mexico

Lynne of Lynne’s Recipe Trails

Parul of Gharkepakwan

I truly cherish you taking the time to mention my little blog in one way or another. And thank you to many other blogging friends I’ve made new and old. It’s been a great year and experience! To whatever the future may hold!

Love,

Sadie

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And again thank you Pinterest for letting my imagination soar (and supplying me with photos as random as my thoughts).

 

Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: Spring Flowers

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You know what they say, “Spring showers bring May flowers…”

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Well it’s holding true once again.

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Although we had a snowy wintery start to our spring…

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The flowers are on cue.

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It’s the stuff sonnets and songs are made of.

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I’m feeling it.

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(And thank you Pinterest for providing me with images)

Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: My Birthday!

I am so blessed. I really am. I have such a loving group of family and friends. I have a great husband and four beautiful children. I don’t normally like to get gushy. (Must be softening up as I age.) Something happens to birthdays as you get older. When I was a child it was all about the party, people coming over, presents, cake and ice cream. It’s different now. Now it seems like a time of reflection. Where am I at in life, how far we have come and gratefullness that there is so much to be thankful for. The number 39 seems non-monumental, but thirty-nine years of life, a good life- not unchallenged, not always easy, but good and full of love, that’s special. I think my day was a pretty fair representation of my life.
I woke up to a gift bag full of presents, literally before my feet hit the floor. Owen was leaving for work and wanted to see me open a gift. He surprised me with some new workout clothes, complete with socks and sweatbands- appropriate for my new lifestyle. And he had wrapped a new cookbook and a couple of new kitchen apparatuses that were on the table when I went downstairs. He knows me so well! Isaiah had “Morning with Mom” at his school, so I got to start the day off right and have breakfast with my eldest son. Sometimes it rains, and so it was on the morning of my birthday. It was raining and slippery, so when I walked through the door I slipped and fell. But I’d like to pretend that didn’t happen, because those kind of embarrassing accidents shouldn’t happen on one’s birthday. Right? Onward! Of course I’m on this strict diet so I skipped the donut and stuck to the fruit. Life is full of those difficult choices… and occasional embarrassing moments. We take the ups with the downs… and keeping a sense of humor really helps.


My parents came over to watch the kids so I could go to breakfast. And they visited with me all day. They gifted me some fun decorative accessories to finish off my newly decorated bathroom (towels, soap dispenser, garbage can, etc. to match my well-loved French goose) and a new shirt. Yay! My sister came over in the afternoon joined me for my workout. My parents brought lunch; turkey and cauliflower stuffed cabbage rolls. My mom volunteered to give me a hand and give the kids a bath. I sat down and decided to commandeer the television, a rare treat but after all it was my special day. We watched a cute old Doris Day film and “To Catch a Thief”. Hey, sometimes life hands you those privileges. Take ’em! At some point throughout the moviethon, however, my baby woke up from his nap in real discomfort. He was cramping and scrunching, moaning and crying. I thought it was gas, until he threw up (a peculiarly large amount of lunch, goat milk and bile) all over me. You know, when life hands you sour, um, “lemons”… thankfully I had babysitters on hand and could dash into the shower right away; I try to keep my eye on the silver lining. (Trying to be a little bit Pollyanna never hurt anyone did it?)


Nevertheless, the best metaphor for my life was yet to be. Because at the end of the day I was surrounded by my family and friends. I had hot food and cold drinks (water of course, I’m dieting). Simply everything I want and need (with the exception a few people not there). I was surprised by thoughtful and beautiful gifts, including a baguette making class from a local bakery, a rustic rotating “fromage” (cheese) board, and a “21 Day Fix” approved dessert, that sufficed as my birthday cake- made by my sister- from which I might add all of my friends and family indulged because that’s the kind of awesome they are! (Imagine a sliver of a Clif Bar.) Thanks to everyone who make my day, days, years, life- great. I love you!

Loving Lately ?

It’s All Easy by Gwyneth Paltrow

It’s been about a whole month (I think) since I’ve purchased a cookbook. And since Cravings by Chrissy Teigen has been on the list that whole time, I am bragging about my restraint. I knew that Gwyneth Paltrow (GP) had published a new cookbook. I just hadn’t walked by it in a store -until I was in Target yesterday and I broke my streak. Don’t worry, I’m totally good with it, and my excitement outweighs all other emotion.

I loved GP’s first cookbook, My Father’s Daughter. I follow her recipes to make my own vegetable and chicken stock. And I’m a fan of her pasta sauce too. I appreciate that GP keeps healthy alternatives in her recipes. She includes some meat and seafood, but it’s listed right up there with vegetarian and even vegan options. It is to her credit that I bought my first jar of Vegeniase (a vegan mayonnaise) years ago. Because if food tastes good, it’s just an added bonus if it’s healthy for you too!

I’m not even a third of the way through, stuck on GP’s “Beet chips” to be exact. Oh my goodness they look so good next to her cilantro hummus! Her “Fried Egg Sandwich” looks amazing and I am heartbroken that I don’t have chickens of my own to lay eggs, because I know my store bought organic eggs are not going to have a yolk that orange. The “Migas,” a Mexican inspired scrambled eggs with queso fresco, salsa and even corn chips are singing to me. (Honestly, I think I here a Mariachi band… and who wouldn’t want to wake up to that kind of fun?) The “Bacon Avocado Toast” with almond butter? That’s a combination I wouldn’t have come up with, but now feel like it’s mandatory to taste! And don’t get me started on the uber-inspiring “noodle jars,” a pre-made jar with Thai flavor and noodles… just add boiling water when ready to eat. Brilliant!

I have to go, I have a book to read.

Loving Lately ?

Loving Lately: My Fiddle Bow Knife

One of my very favorite things I bought on vacation is a knife (a lot like a saw). It was completely unexpected. There I was at the Marco Island Farmer’s Market, looking at locally grown vegetables, freshly roasted coffees and sampling chocolates, when a vendor’s booth of lovely handcrafted woodwork caught my eye. Jerry Oppenberg had cutting boards in every custom shape you could think of; a silhouette of golf clubs in a bag, a football helmet, fish… you name it. He and his wife made for a great team. She was bustling around the booth, placing things just so and he was explaining how he would make any custom design you desired, all the while demonstrating his signature “fiddle bow” knife at the center of their display. Naturally, being attracted to kitchen gadgets, I had to ask for a try. It was love at first… slice!

Clearly it’s not replacing my chef’s knife, or paring knife. It’s not made for making quick work of a pile of onions needing dicing, or bulks of potatoes needing to be cut for boiling. It has a place of its very own, for slicing baguettes and crudités while visiting with mom in the kitchen. It’s for slicing citrus fruits to be put in a pitcher while chatting with friends on a summer afternoon. And for slicing thin rounds of tomatoes, gorgeously sweet and juicy to place on top of white crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil and a light sprinkling of sea salt for an impromptu gathering of loved ones.

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I’ll be honest with you too, I haven’t mastered a slice of tomato that thin without using my mandoline. And something else I appreciate is the angle. Because of its saw-like function, it’s so easy to sit while cutting. No need to stand and apply pressure from the top! They come in a variety of wood finishes (with cutting boards to match). And because they are handmade, there is a selection for all of the left-handed users out there! Care is easy too, just wipe with a warm soapy cloth and rinse.

For more information or to get one for yourself visit BOWKNIFE.COM