tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47276039661143783152024-03-08T05:17:52.293-05:00Sugar and PicklesCome join us on our visual journey; as we travel, cook, bake and share stories with family across the globe.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-30432036314077915572015-01-15T11:12:00.000-05:002015-01-15T11:12:06.153-05:00Happy Birthday Sugar & Pickles!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TX8Wb6gN89I/VLfQJGS7mjI/AAAAAAAABp4/12qZuIaPxUU/s1600/Vanilla_Bean_Cheesecake_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sugar & Pickles - Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Crystallized Cranberries" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TX8Wb6gN89I/VLfQJGS7mjI/AAAAAAAABp4/12qZuIaPxUU/s1600/Vanilla_Bean_Cheesecake_2.jpg" height="500" title="Sugar & Pickles - Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Crystallized Cranberries" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's a very Happy Blog Birthday around here!<br />
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Today Sugar & Pickles is celebrating five years of blogging! Holy moly... Sometimes I just can't believe how fast time flies! I apologize for all the extra exclamation marks.<br />
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This past year has been full of amazing milestones. It's really made me step back and evaluate things in my personal life and on Sugar & Pickles. There's just simply so much I want to do and get accomplished this year. I'm not saying it's a resolution (you know how I feel about those)... It's more of a "Honey Do List" if you will.<br />
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My goal this year for this blog is to connect more with readers. As I may have mentioned before, some of the readers on this blog are family members from across the globe. The other half are wonderful people that stumbled upon this little blog and stayed to read what we've been up to. By the way, Thank you! Thank you for your patience and hanging in there when I went months without writing.<br />
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Life sometimes gets away from me. Running your own business can be very demanding and I usually have so many things going on at once. My attention can get a little divided and sometimes this little space doesn't get the love it should be. My husband likes to call it... ShayDD.<br />
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Let's celebrate this new year of blogging and us connecting more on this space. So! Let's eat cheesecake! To be more specific, let's share a Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Crystallized Cranberries.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Crystallized Cranberries</b></div>
yields: 6" cake<br />
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<i><b>Equipment you'll need:</b></i><br />
<ul>
<li>6" Straight-Side Cake Pan</li>
<li>9" Straight-Side Cake Pan </li>
<li>Food Processor or Coffee Grinder</li>
<li>Parchment Paper</li>
<li>Slotted Spoon or Spider Skimmer </li>
<li>Heat-Proof Bowl </li>
<li>Rimmed Cookie Sheet</li>
<li>Wire Cooling Rack </li>
<li>Pie Weights or Dry Beans</li>
<li>Electric Mixer</li>
<li>Tea Kettle</li>
</ul>
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<i><b>For the Ground Almonds:</b></i><br />
1/2 cup Slivered Almonds<br />
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Preheat oven to 350°F.<br />
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Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Add slivered almonds onto cookie sheet in a thin layer. Bake almonds until lightly toasted, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 20 minutes.<br />
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In a small food processor or a coffee grinder; grind the almonds until it looks like coarse meal or coarse sand. Make sure that the almonds are completely cool or you'll make toasted almond butter. Measure out a 1/3 cup of ground almonds and set aside. You'll have extra ground almonds.<br />
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[<i>hint</i>: Top your yogurt or salad with the extra ground almonds. I also love to top pasta with ground almonds]<br />
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<i><b>For the Crust:</b></i><br />
1 cup (120 grams) Unbleached All-Purpose Flour<br />
1/3 cup (28 grams) Freshly Ground Almonds<br />
2 tablespoons (28 grams) Dark Brown Sugar<br />
1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt<br />
6 tablespoons (90 grams) Unsalted Butter, cold and diced<br />
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Preheat oven to 400°F.<br />
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Lightly butter a 6" straight-side cake pan and set aside.<br />
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Whisk together flour, ground almonds, sugar, and salt. With a pastry blender or rub with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse sand or coarse meal. The dough should hold together when squeezed. If the dough is too crumbly, sprinkle a teaspoon or two of cold water.<br />
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Press the dough firmly to the bottom of your prepared 6" cake pan. Be sure to press the crust almost all the way up the sides of the cake pan. Cover the crust with parchment paper and add pie weights or dry beans. Bake the crust until just set or beginning to turn slightly golden, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool while you make the filling.<br />
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<i><b>For the Filling:</b></i><br />
8 ounces (226 grams) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, room temperature<br />
1/4 cup (50 grams) Granulated Sugar<br />
2 tablespoons (28 grams) Heavy Cream<br />
1 Large Eggs<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Bean Paste<br />
1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice<br />
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Reduce the oven to 325°F.<br />
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In the bowl of your electric mixer; cream sugar and cream cheese together until smooth. Add egg and be sure to scrap the sides of your bowl to ensure that the egg and cheese mixture is mixed well. Add the cream, vanilla and lemon juice; mix until incorporated.<br />
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While making the filling, bring water to a boil in a tea kettle.<br />
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Pour the cream cheese mixture into the pre-baked crust. Put your unbaked cheesecake pan inside a 9" straight-side cake pan. Pull the oven rack slightly and place the pans in the middle of the rack. At this time, your water should have come to a boil. Carefully pour the water into the 9" cake pan and gently push the oven rack back into the oven. Please be very careful not to allow any water to spill into the cheesecake.<br />
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Bake the cheesecake until just set, but with a slight giggle; about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven gently not to allow any water into the cheesecake and let cool for at least 1 hour. Loosen the edges gently with a butter knife. Place a piece of parchment paper over the cheesecake and your hand on top of the parchment paper. Carefully invert the pan onto your hand to remove the cheesecake. Immediately turn the cheesecake right-side up onto a serving plate. Carefully remove the parchment paper. Chill the cheesecake in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 to 8 hours.<br />
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<i><b>For the Topping:</b></i><br />
1/2 cup Water<br />
1/2 cup Granulated Sugar<br />
1/2 cup Cranberries<br />
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Pour the cranberries in a heat-proof bowl and set aside.<br />
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In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar to make a simple syrup. Simmer the sugar over medium-low heat until sugar is completely dissolved. The simple syrup should be crystal clear. Slowly and carefully pour the hot simple syrup over the cranberries and stir to make sure all of the cranberries are coated.<br />
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Allow the cranberries to sit in simple syrup to sweeten for about 2 hours. The longer the cranberries sit in the syrup, the sweeter they become (I like a nice sweet/tart contrast, so 2 hours worked nicely for me). Be sure to stir the cranberries often within the 2 hour time span.<br />
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Place about 3 to 4 tablespoons of sugar into a small bowl and set aside. <br />
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Nest the cooling wire within a rimmed cookie sheet. Using a spider skimmer (my favorite kitchen utensil) or slotted spoon, spread the cranberries onto the cooling wire. Be sure that the cranberries aren't touching each other. Allow the excess simple syrup to drip off the cranberries, about 8 to 10 minutes. It's very important that you allow the extra syrup to drip off the cranberries or the end result will be clumpy cranberries instead of sugar dusted cranberries. <br />
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[<i>hint</i>: You can make the cranberries one ahead. Cover the cranberry and simple syrup bowl with shrink wrap and place it the fridge overnight. Be sure to stir the cranberries often. Save the extra simple syrup for more cranberries or better yet... for cocktails!]<br />
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Enjoy the rest of your day! ~ Shay <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJv6YCh3IN4/VLfQ6u80LwI/AAAAAAAABqA/7ByiN2QJNaU/s1600/Vanilla_Bean_Cheesecake_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Sugar & Pickles - Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Crystallized Cranberries" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJv6YCh3IN4/VLfQ6u80LwI/AAAAAAAABqA/7ByiN2QJNaU/s1600/Vanilla_Bean_Cheesecake_3.jpg" height="500" title="Sugar & Pickles - Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Crystallized Cranberries" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-90457788188729191662015-01-13T10:59:00.001-05:002015-01-13T10:59:38.843-05:00Visiting Europe | Vaduz, Liechtenstein<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After spending a few days in Feldkirch, Austria; I was ready to move on and visit one of my favorite countries in Europe... Liechtenstein! Not familiar with Liechtenstein? Well, you should be! Liechtenstein is a landlocked German-speaking micro state which borders both Switzerland and Austria, From Balzers to Ruggell, this alpine country is absolutely breathtaking. I so love it here!<br />
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I think I've trekked almost ever nook and cranny of this wonderful country. I only say "almost" because every time I turn a corner, I find something new and exciting here. On this visit, I spent most of my time in Vaduz. Not only is Vaduz internationally known for their baking, mountain biking, and skiing; it's also the capital. Personally, I think Vaduz is the hub of emerging artists, modern to medieval architecture, wonderful fashion, amazing jewelry, great wine, and delicious food (especially the chocolates and cheese).<br />
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By the way, when I say mountain biking; I don't mean a steep hill in New Jersey. I mean... The Alps! Those guys are insane... Crazy endurance. Maybe one day I'll give that a try. <i><b>Maybe</b></i>. In the meantime, I'll enjoy their food and wine.<br />
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Are you thinking... Really?! Liechtenstein wine?! Yes, really. Great wine! The Prince of Liechtenstein himself has a wine cellar/vineyard (called Hofkellerei) that you can visit and taste. He has a private stash, but I couldn't get my grubby hands on it<br />
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If I could move here tomorrow, I would! Not sure if the husband would like that very much (wah wah). Honestly, there are just so many wonderful things to see, eat, and experience here. Let alone the amazing landmarks in Vaduz, from the beautiful Vaduz castle overlooking the city to the Kuntsmuseum Liechtenstein (museum of modern and contemporary art). I think deep down inside, I rather keep Liechtenstein as my little secret. Go ahead and be spontaneous! Jump on a plane today and head over there. I'm more than willing to be your tour guide<br />
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As I mentioned in our previous post, we've been away from this space for a while and wanted to catch you up on what we've been up to. My husband and I had an opportunity to head back to Europe at the end of summer.<br />
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If you read this blog in the past, you know that I've visited this area about fours ago. And, I was completely happy to be back again. As you may or may not know; not only is my husband my taste-testing guinea pig, but he also works for an international company. Every now and again, he has to visit headquarters and more than happy to join him.<br />
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While he was off at work. I got to trek around and discover Feldkirch, Austria. Feldkirch is a medieval town nestled between Switzerland and Liechtenstein. This quaint little town has tons of charm and history. Most of the city still has old fortifications that were built by German King Maximillian I in 1507 (Sorry for the added history lesson, but I love knowing a little more of where I visit). I think the highlight of this old city is the amazingly preserved Schattenburg castle.<br />
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The Schattenburg castle is nested on a hill overlooking Feldkirch. I trekked up a steep, but walkable hill from the old town. Trust me... It was so worth it! The castle is small, but the breathtaking views of the city alone made me forget that steep hike.<br />
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If you're ever in this area, I recommend that you take a daytrip into Feldkirch. There are cool little boutiques, designers shops, and amazing food. There's also an amazing farmers' market here on Saturday mornings. Come early because a lot sells out quickly and come ready to eat everything. I especially wanted to eat everything from the mobile cheese truck. Mmm... cheese! Even if you don't like farmers' markets, you'll enjoy this one. It's a nice place to stroll around; people watch and listen to local artists preform.<br />
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The only thing I was shocked by here was... Most shops have sporadic hours. And when I say sporadic hours, I mean they open whenever they feel like it. Also, everything closes around lunch time for around almost 2 hours (including cafes and most restaurants) and they close early. I've been to Europe before and I know shop and restaurant hours are different then back home, but it was a bit shocking here in Feldkirch. But it kind of didn't bother me that much (except for when i was hungry) since the architecture and beautiful flowers kept me busy. It was a little difficult to choose pictures of this precious city to share with you, but I think I managed to show my steps in Feldkirch.<br />
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Enjoy the rest of your day! ~ Shay<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-22458692232226595452015-01-09T13:12:00.000-05:002015-01-09T13:12:03.630-05:002015... And where we've been<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy New Year! How are you guys doing on your resolutions? Have you given up yet? Are you still motivated? As I mentioned once or twice, resolutions are not my bag. I hate lying to myself. I think the idea of resolutions is wonderful and traditional. Their just typically extreme... Go to the gym twice a day/seven days a week, cut out all cheeseburgers, no more alcohol until next New Year's Eve, stop shopping entirely and bank every cent, etc., etc.<br />
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Let's face it together. Resolutions just doesn't work (at least for me). So screw'em! Instead, let's set daily (realistic) goals. For example... Today:<br />
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1: Take a yoga class<br />
2: Eat dinner at 7:00PM (We're late night eaters)<br />
3: Set the dinner table with candles just because it's Friday<br />
4: Treat myself to a fancy cup of cappuccino<br />
5: Write a blog post<br />
6: Be nicer to myself (Haven't mastered this one, so I work on it daily)<br />
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As you can see, I'm a simple chick. My goals aren't fussy. They're just realistic for me. <br />
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So! It's been a while since I've been on this space sharing with you and I feel pretty ashamed about that. Sometimes life happens and time seems to get away from me. A lot of things have happened while I've been out of touch on this space. If you follow us on <a href="http://instagram.com/zugarhaus" target="_blank">instagram</a> (you can also follow my personal <a href="http://instagram.com/shaypaquet" target="_blank">instagram</a>)... You probably know some of the things we've been up to.<br />
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Since my last post; I've celebrated a birthday and a huge anniversary milestone. My in-laws moved to a different state. We welcomed a beautiful squishy new niece and a new nephew I still need to meet. In addition, we had the opportunity to head to Europe and a few places in between. In the next few posts I'll be sharing some pictures of our adventures.<br />
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Oh! By the way... It's super cold here. Enjoy the rest of your day! ~ Shay<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-79633339550121668382014-03-21T16:26:00.000-04:002014-03-21T16:26:03.261-04:00Grape Polenta Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-isuHSLMjmQQ/UyyeWRdspjI/AAAAAAAABjM/bZ29bJKOCWI/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-isuHSLMjmQQ/UyyeWRdspjI/AAAAAAAABjM/bZ29bJKOCWI/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_1.jpg" height="500" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxkEXii8T9w/UyyeX-vYdBI/AAAAAAAABjw/EVTN7oKWwT8/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxkEXii8T9w/UyyeX-vYdBI/AAAAAAAABjw/EVTN7oKWwT8/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_3.jpg" height="500" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy
Spring!</span></b></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Today is
the first full day of Spring and we need to celebrate with cake! So, I started
rummaging through my pantry and fridge looking for something to make.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">All I knew
while rummaging was that I didn't want anything frosted or chocolate. I wanted
something simple, rustic and delicious. Hidden in the back of the fridge, I
spotted the red globe grapes that my husband bought a few days back. Some were
starting to look a little sad and squishy (ew!), but the rest was still
useable. I hate letting anything go to waste.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>
</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpExYd1BVLw/UyyeXdEj9wI/AAAAAAAABjg/gsbBuRW0z3g/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpExYd1BVLw/UyyeXdEj9wI/AAAAAAAABjg/gsbBuRW0z3g/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_5.jpg" height="424" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I knew
right away that I wanted to make a polenta cake with these lovely jewel toned
beauties. I was inspired by one of my favorite comfort meals: Roasted Chicken
with Grapes over Creamy Polenta. A MUST try!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Personally,
I don't mind the seeds. I actually like eating them. Always have. My husband in
the other hand… not so much. But… I decided to bake with them anyway. More cake
for me if he hates it.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Grape Polenta Cake</b> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Makes: 9" cake</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6
tablespoons (90 grams) unsalted butter, room temp</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup
(100 grams) granulated sugar</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon
vanilla paste</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon
lemon zest</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 large
egg</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup
almond milk*</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup (130
grams) all-purpose flour</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup
(65 grams) coarse ground yellow cornmeal</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2
teaspoons baking powder</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2
teaspoon fine sea salt</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 1/2 cups
red globe grapes or any seedless grapes</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2
teaspoons turbinado sugar</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">*You can
use regular milk or buttermilk. Almond milk is what I happen to have in the
fridge.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat
oven to 350°F.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Butter a
9" springform pan. Set aside.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a
medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt. Set aside.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the
bowl of an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar
until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla paste, lemon zest and egg until well combined.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reduce
speed to low, beat in the dry ingredients and milk in 3 additions (starting and
ending with dry ingredients).</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pour batter into prepared springform pan. Randomly arrange or form a pattern with the grapes on-top of cake batter. Don't worry about pushing the grape into the cake. They will sink as the cake bakes. Bake for about 20 - 25 minutes (depending on your oven). </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mFlgNvJvkfI/UyyeXlpMWCI/AAAAAAAABjo/inED2bBlt98/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mFlgNvJvkfI/UyyeXlpMWCI/AAAAAAAABjo/inED2bBlt98/s1600/Grape_Polenta_Cake_4.jpg" height="500" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Grape Polenta Cake" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Friday!</span></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-57161260443019085222014-02-01T14:33:00.000-05:002014-02-01T14:33:27.322-05:00{Leftovers Becomes} Chili and Cornbread with Jalapenos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kfR5SeF2TSk/UuxGuMP5bSI/AAAAAAAABiE/PhfUMhj14UY/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kfR5SeF2TSk/UuxGuMP5bSI/AAAAAAAABiE/PhfUMhj14UY/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_1.jpg" height="500" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iGd39-HFMIs/UuxGuf0pyBI/AAAAAAAABic/bg9W9oAMGSo/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iGd39-HFMIs/UuxGuf0pyBI/AAAAAAAABic/bg9W9oAMGSo/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_4.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My husband and I
love tacos! Chicken tacos, pulled pork tacos, beef tacos, fish tacos or lingua
tacos. If you can put it in a corn tortilla… we'll eat it!</span><br />
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I think we eat tacos
at least 2 times a month. Being that we had ground beef in the fridge, I made
"American Style" tacos for dinner. Very rarely do we have leftovers,
but I guess there's a first time for everything.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">With Super Bowl
around the corner, I decided to turn our leftover taco meat filling into
delicious chili accompanied by cornbread with jalapeños. You can basically make this with any leftover meat you may have. This recipe will probably be delicious with leftover pulled pork or beef roast. Depending on seasoning of the meat you use, you may have to adjust the seasonings a little to your liking. If you like your chili spicier, just add more chipotles. Our leftover taco meat is pretty spicy, so the ratio that I used for this recipe was perfect.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Also, this is very important; don't forget to serve the chili with delicious condiments. Like... chopped scallions, lime wedges, diced tomatoes, diced avocados, cornbread, cheese, radishes or even mustard. These are all a must in my house! </span><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1f9eHTGYFIA/UuxGuFP5DTI/AAAAAAAABiU/upKOOODeTvo/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1f9eHTGYFIA/UuxGuFP5DTI/AAAAAAAABiU/upKOOODeTvo/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_3.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Chili</i></b></div>
Serves: 6<br />
<br />
<i>Soaking the Beans</i><br />
1 cup Dry Pinto Beans<br />
1/2 cup Dry Red Kidney Beans<br />
1/2 cup Dry Black Beans<br />
5 to 6 cups Water<br />
<br />
In a large bowl, add the beans and water (add more water if needed to completely cover the beans). Let stand overnight. Drain and rinse the beans.<br />
<br />
<i>Cooking the Beans</i><br />
2 large Bay Leaves<br />
2 large Garlic Cloves, smashed and paper removed <br />
6 cups Water<br />
Drained and Rinsed Beans<br />
<br />
In a large saucepan, add beans and water. Over medium-high heat, bring beans and water to a boil. Once the water comes to a boil, add garlic and bay leaves. Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to low and allow beans to simmer until tender (about 25 - 30 minutes).<br />
<br />
Once the beans are tender, reserve 1 1/2 cups of the cooking liquid. Discard the bay leaves and garlic. Drain the beans, but do not rinse and set aside.<br />
<br />
<i>For the Chili</i><br />
1 tablespoon Olive Oil <i><br /></i><br />
1/2 large Yellow Onion, diced<br />
1 Green Bell Pepper, diced<br />
1 J<span style="font-family: inherit;">alapeños, diced small</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 Chipotles, roughly diced </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 Garlic Cloves, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon dry Mexican Oregano </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons Ground Cumin</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoons Dark Brown Sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 (14.5 oz) can Fire Roasted Tomatoes, diced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups leftover Taco Meat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">cooked Beans </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cups reserved cooking liquid</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Salt and Pepper to taste</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a small bowl, combine the dry oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper and brown sugar. Set aside until ready to use. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Saute onions with salt and pepper until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add the bell peppers </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">and jalapeños, cook until softened (about 2 - 3 minutes). Then add garlic and continue to saute until fragrant (about 1 - 2 minutes). You can add our spice mixture and continue to saute until the spices are fragrant (about 1 - 2 minutes). </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">At this point, don't worry! The spices will look like they are starting to stick and burn (I promise they are not). Carefully add the Worcestershire sauce (it will steam quite a bit, so be careful not to burn yourself) to deglaze the pan by stirring and scraping any brown bits (from the spices) on the bottom of the pan. Stir in the fire roasted tomatoes and leftover taco meat until combined.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes. Add the beans and the reserved cooking liquid, simmer for another 30 minutes. If needed add more water to the desired consistency. Serve chili with preferred condiments. </span> </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Cornbread with <span style="font-family: inherit;">Jalapeños</span></i></b></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">adapted from Everyday Foods - Issue 86 (October 2011)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup All-Purpose Flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cups Yellow Cornmeal</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6 tablespoons Granulated Sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon Kosher Salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup Buttermilk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3 large Eggs, lightly beaten</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 (7 oz) can Sweet Corn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 </span>J<span style="font-family: inherit;">alapeños, diced small</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 375</span>°F. Butter a 9" x 9" baking pan and set aside.<span style="font-size: 125%;"><span class="Unicode"></span></span> <br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, smoked paprika, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a medium bowl, stir together melted butter (allow to cool slightly before adding the rest of the liquids), buttermilk and eggs. Once combined, add the mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until combined (DO NOT OVER MIX!). Stir in the corn and j</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">alapeños until combined.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Bake for approx 20 minutes (depending on your oven) or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ppEoVMTZCVM/UuxGuuUMhRI/AAAAAAAABig/LsX6JzHNrqs/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ppEoVMTZCVM/UuxGuuUMhRI/AAAAAAAABig/LsX6JzHNrqs/s1600/Chili_w_Cornbread_and_Jalapano_5.jpg" height="516" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span> <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-31145377711295423102014-01-03T17:43:00.000-05:002014-01-03T17:43:03.004-05:00First Snow of 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oYsJIExV8DM/Usciyq2iOII/AAAAAAAABfo/bKU4kpbmoTE/s1600/First_Storm_of_2014_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oYsJIExV8DM/Usciyq2iOII/AAAAAAAABfo/bKU4kpbmoTE/s640/First_Storm_of_2014_5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We awoke to a winter wonderland this morning. The scenery was absolutely beautiful, until it dawns on you... "Oh crap! I have to go outside! Do I really need to shovel out the car?! ...Boo!" To be fair to Mother Nature, it wasn't so bad. Even though it was 11 degrees out (not even kidding), the snow was actually light and fluffy, so it made it pretty easy to shovel.<br />
<br />
I know it's been a while since I last posted, so I wanted to stop in and see how my blog friends were doing. I hope you had a wonderful holiday and got to spend it with loved ones. Santa was pretty good to me this year... I was gifted a super bad-ass awesome camera! I've been taking pictures every chance I get. I'm still learning all the new functions and buttons on my new camera. So, I figured I would share some of the pictures I took today.<br />
<br />
By the way... My mum plant does not look happy covered in snow! <br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-84485451890295167962013-10-30T19:15:00.000-04:002013-10-30T19:15:18.987-04:00Sleepy Hollow, NY
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xilmViRoKqg/UnF6OH7deiI/AAAAAAAABdI/-did1UK0PVk/s1600/Sleepy_Hollow_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" border="0" height="422" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xilmViRoKqg/UnF6OH7deiI/AAAAAAAABdI/-did1UK0PVk/s640/Sleepy_Hollow_1.jpg" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">For years now, I've
been wanting to go and planning a Sleepy Hollow road trip. You know how it is,
things always happens or comes and we always end up pushing our trip to the
following year. Not this year! With Halloween around the corner and since Halloween
is my jam… Off we went to Hudson Valley in the covert of darkness (Hehe…
Doesn't that sound mysterious?!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I love road trips!
Just the idea of spontaneously jumping into a car and driving to an impromptu
destination is just romantic. Think about it. Experiencing new places, foods,
and sites together… Romantic! </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQMC1m7jEgw/UnF6QzVshMI/AAAAAAAABdY/SXXARcHbXvY/s1600/Sleepy_Hollow_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQMC1m7jEgw/UnF6QzVshMI/AAAAAAAABdY/SXXARcHbXvY/s640/Sleepy_Hollow_2.jpg" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">For a couple that
always late to everything (it's a Latin thing), we arrived in Sleepy Hollow
pretty early in the morning. See! There's actually morning dew on the leaves
and we were ready. Our day of sightseeing started at Patriot's Park and ended at
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">There was a cookout
happening at the cemetery when we arrived. I know that might sound weird or
macabre to some people, but<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found this
quite normal. Growing up in Brasil, this is very normal. It's just common for people
to pack a picnic lunch to share a meal and stories with their departed family
members. So, I was pleasantly surprised to see this here. I was also pleasantly
surprised to see people decorating headstones for Halloween. As others left
toys for resting children.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6jLBVE6AnE/UnF6ReG6P3I/AAAAAAAABdk/ckl1DpU7ZOg/s1600/Sleepy_Hollow_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6jLBVE6AnE/UnF6ReG6P3I/AAAAAAAABdk/ckl1DpU7ZOg/s640/Sleepy_Hollow_5.jpg" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fKl_Q5vBc-s/UnF6RT4MzBI/AAAAAAAABdw/FlFRSP80CZU/s1600/Sleepy_Hollow_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fKl_Q5vBc-s/UnF6RT4MzBI/AAAAAAAABdw/FlFRSP80CZU/s640/Sleepy_Hollow_6.jpg" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | Sleepy Hollow, NY" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Our walk through the
cemetery was really pleasant and peaceful. By far my favorite thing that we did
all weekend. We enjoyed learning about the people who rest there. We enjoyed
listening to stories of how some changed the course of our history. Whether its
how they changed our business world or how they impacted our literary culture.
So, we definitely paid our respects!</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-71715330642649423472013-09-16T16:22:00.000-04:002013-09-16T16:23:27.223-04:00Cruising...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0nmu4SDfnWM/UjdlN3nnX3I/AAAAAAAABb4/cwhJcGNATD8/s1600/Cruising_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | www.sugarandpickles.blogspot.com" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0nmu4SDfnWM/UjdlN3nnX3I/AAAAAAAABb4/cwhJcGNATD8/s1600/Cruising_1.jpg" height="384" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | www.sugarandpickles.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3iXVlTQeN8/UjdlRWQxcyI/AAAAAAAABcM/_QOftO9Tw1Y/s1600/Cruising_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugar Haus' Blog | www.sugarandpickles.blogspot.com" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3iXVlTQeN8/UjdlRWQxcyI/AAAAAAAABcM/_QOftO9Tw1Y/s1600/Cruising_4.jpg" height="384" title="Zugar Haus' Blog | www.sugarandpickles.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I mentioned
before, I just came back from a cruise. This was actually my first time
cruising and I was pretty worried. For about 5 months leading up to our
vacation, I tossed and turned at night wondering about what to expect.</div>
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To be really honest,
I worried about things going wrong based on all the horror stories I heard and
stories on the news… i.e. being stuck on the ship for days without running
water or sinking. Yes, I know this sounds silly. Believe it or not, I don't know
how to swim! So being worried doesn't sound silly to me.</div>
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My husband is still
amused at the fact that I can't swim. Especially since he knows that I was
basically raised on the beach. My siblings can swim like guppies or whatever
you call awesome swimmers, but apparently I inherited my mother's swimming
talents… sinking!</div>
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I enjoy the beach
and water very much, but I still worried about cruising. I wasn't so much
worried about being seasick because I've been boating and jet-skiing before.
Which I absolutely love since I'm an adrenaline junky. I worried about how I
would react to not seeing land for miles anywhere around me for days. Remember,
I can't swim! So if anything goes super wrong… I'm up *bleep* creek (without a
paddle).</div>
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Honestly, I quite
enjoyed it. It was calming and majestic. At times, it felt like it was just the
hubby and I drifting away from all our worries and work. Provided you got up
pretty early in the morning to enjoy a little peace and quiet. Because in reality,
there were about a gazillion (not really, it was more like 500) screaming kids
running and jumping everywhere with their parents right behind yelling at them
every 2 seconds... "Richard stop that!" "Richard put that
down!" "Richard don't climb that!" "Richard get over
here!" "Richard!" "Richard!"</div>
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It didn't matter how
hard we tried, yet we couldn't escape "Richard!" Regardless of
Richard and his family, we enjoyed ourselves. Would I cruise again? Nope!</div>
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As you can see from the pictures, the weather didn't want to cooperate with us. I mean really Mother Nature?! Didn't you get the memo... I'm on vacation! But the captain did a great job going around the storm so we could enjoy some sun and turquoise waters. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-41735104269013019442013-09-10T10:54:00.000-04:002013-09-10T10:54:21.404-04:00I Protest!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ONKGtKafCOA/Ui8v64vGLBI/AAAAAAAABbg/wP_sdINaYhI/s1600/I_Protest_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ONKGtKafCOA/Ui8v64vGLBI/AAAAAAAABbg/wP_sdINaYhI/s1600/I_Protest_3.jpg" height="482" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G4ge1OGUQ1A/Ui8tyshfg-I/AAAAAAAABbU/mt6aFEebhXo/s1600/I_Protest_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G4ge1OGUQ1A/Ui8tyshfg-I/AAAAAAAABbU/mt6aFEebhXo/s1600/I_Protest_2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zPeltxUG-Y0/Ui8qpdjAaeI/AAAAAAAABbI/dgDAurOZm90/s1600/I_Protest_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zPeltxUG-Y0/Ui8qpdjAaeI/AAAAAAAABbI/dgDAurOZm90/s1600/I_Protest_1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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My husband and I
just returned from a cruise to Key West and Cozumel. We've been home for about
3 days now and I'm not quite ready to let go of summer yet.</div>
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Even though we awoke
to a chill in the air... I protest! Its still summer! Sometimes the gravity of
how fast time passes by hits me all at once.</div>
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In protest of the
impending season… I refuse to touch pumpkin until I put on a sweater. I was
actually tempted today, but I refuse to cover my awesome tan (not trying to rub
it in or anything, but it is an awesome tan).</div>
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And yes, I know.
Laying out to tan is taboo and/or bad for you. And yes, I know about harmful
ultraviolet rays, but remember moderate exposure to the sun contributes to the
production of vitamin D by the body. And I did use sun protection.</div>
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In the next few
posts, I'll be sharing a few pictures of our trip. :)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-35992452438459189552013-09-09T17:45:00.001-04:002013-09-09T17:45:57.995-04:00Martha Stewart American Made
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRspGAHeFig/Ui4-jFmbDgI/AAAAAAAABaY/OHmbX6WPo_w/s1600/Martha+Stewart+American+Made.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRspGAHeFig/Ui4-jFmbDgI/AAAAAAAABaY/OHmbX6WPo_w/s640/Martha+Stewart+American+Made.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I warn you in
advanced that this is a shameless self-promotion post. Do not read on if you
hate them!
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So... Zugar Haus is a
nominee for <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/americanmade/nominee/80084" target="_blank">Martha Stewart American Made contest</a>! Martha Stewart
American Made supports the local and celebrates the handmade! Check it out...
discover new makers and support your favorites (like Zugar Haus) *<span style="font-weight: bold;">**wink, wink***</span>
</div>
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Voting actually
started August 26th. You can actually vote 6 times every 24 hours. If you feel
inclined to do so... We would love your vote! Or 6 every 24 hours! ;) </div>
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Here's the link - <span class="userContent"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/americanmade/nominee/80084" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.marthastewart.com/americanmade/nominee/80084</a></span> </div>
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I thank you in
advanced and we truly appreciate your support!
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-82663877222982270002013-06-13T13:49:00.001-04:002013-06-13T14:25:45.451-04:00Grounds for Sculpture<br />
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<br />
So, it's been pretty
hectic around here lately. I have a few things in the works that I can't really
share yet, but I hope it'll all work out. [fingers crossed]</div>
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Any-who, about a month ago (on my birthday), I got to spend the whole day outside basking in the
sun and enjoying beautiful art installations at Grounds for Sculpture. Have you
guys been there yet? I highly recommend you go if you live in or are visiting
the Princeton area.<br />
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Grounds for
Sculpture is really quite a remarkable park. You feel at peace and inspired as
soon as you arrive. They're dedication and appreciation for contemporary
sculpture is just breathtaking. As we channeled our inner art critic, we took
in the sites. Every so often, hidden behind or nestled between cherry blossom
trees were hidden sculptures. By making art accessible in an informal setting,
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Not to mention that
there are peacocks frolicking about the park. Okay, so this is a little off
topic... but have you heard a peacock "chirp?" For a lack of a better
word, I'm sticking with chirp. It's actually kind of creepy, weird, and awesome
all at once. They make screechy cat-like sounds. It's so weird! I telling
you... Bing it (or Google it)!<br />
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P.S. Pictures were taken on my cellphone so, they're a little blurry <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-40946652654874020542013-02-14T18:25:00.000-05:002013-02-14T18:25:50.777-05:00{Giveaway Update} Happy Valentine's Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KsRWcR4Uc00/UR1DZOiLV8I/AAAAAAAABUc/UA6hRdYirWo/s1600/Valentines_Day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KsRWcR4Uc00/UR1DZOiLV8I/AAAAAAAABUc/UA6hRdYirWo/s1600/Valentines_Day.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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{Giveaway Update} The winner of our Valentine's Day Gift Box is Jenn! I wanted to thank everyone who entered our giveaway. Don't worry if you didn't win (this time)... We'll be having another giveaway soon!<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">Happy Valentine's Day! </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-38267576704091666792013-02-05T15:26:00.000-05:002013-02-05T15:29:30.492-05:00{Giveaway} Valentine's Day Gift Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLYI5ofb9pY/URFpla_UydI/AAAAAAAABTs/nC8TKwAIRq0/s1600/Vday_Giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="592" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLYI5ofb9pY/URFpla_UydI/AAAAAAAABTs/nC8TKwAIRq0/s640/Vday_Giveaway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Roses are Red</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Violets are blue</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Cookies are yummy</i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>And you'll get some too</i> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you noticed that Valentine's Day has evolved throughout the years? It used to be a day about courtly love and lovers, but now it seems to be all about the expression of love<i>, </i>friendships and giving.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With that said... I would love to be your "winged Cupid" if you will. I'm giving away our <a href="http://www.zugarhaus.com/vday_gift_box.html" target="_blank">Valentine's Day Gift Box</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>What do you get in the gift box?</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Half Dozen (6) - Chocolate Cassis Sablés with Raspberry Jam</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One Dozen (12) - Chocolate Dipped Lavender Orange Sablés Hearts</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One Dozen (12) - Hibiscus Rose Marshmallow</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Our Valentine's Day Gift Box is beautifully hand-wrapped with handmade
lavender and pink paper sourced from recycled cotton fabric remnants.
Then tied with a chocolate brown satin ribbon. Our gift box will make a
memorable gift for your Valentine.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Okay, let's get down to business... All you have to do is leave a comment with an answer to our question. As I mentioned before, our gift box was inspired by flavors that scream romance to me. And nothing screams romance like; chocolates, berries and flowers! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Question: <span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What flavors scream romance to you?</b></span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Would you like an extra chance to win?!?! Of course you do! I want everyone to have as many chances as possible. For extra chances to win.... just follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/ZugarHaus" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ZugarHaus" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/104282814997826076901/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sugarandpickles/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>, and our <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/zugar-haus?trk=top_nav_home" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> business page. Then come back here and leave a comment telling me that you followed me. If you already follow us... just leave a comment stating that you already follow me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">P.S. Leave a separate comment for each social media network that you followed me on! That's already six chances for you to win! Don't forget to share the opportunity with your social media friends for additional chances! </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6r5Ck2s5GwY/URFqiKR87mI/AAAAAAAABT0/MvDqACUujuY/s1600/Vday_Gift_Box_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6r5Ck2s5GwY/URFqiKR87mI/AAAAAAAABT0/MvDqACUujuY/s640/Vday_Gift_Box_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Please Read </i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* No purchase necessary<br />* This giveaway is only open to U.S.A. delivery address</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* The giveaway will start today, February 5, 2013 and will end February 11, 2013 at 12:00PM EST <br />* Zugar Haus' Valentine's Gift Box retails for $28.00</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* The winner will be chosen at random using Random.org</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* The number of eligibility determines on the number of comments</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* We will contact the winner via email. So please be sure to included your email address when leaving a comment. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Prize must be claimed within 24 hours or I reserve the right to award Zugar Haus' Valentine's Day Gift Box to the next randomly selected person. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* If there is a problem contacting the winner, I reserve the right to award Zugar Haus' Valentine's Day Gift Box to the next randomly selected person. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Giveaway winner will be announced<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>via Twitter, Facebook and Google+. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">* The gift box will arrive via USPS Priority Mail for Valentine's delivery permitting on how fast we'll receive information from the winner </span></span><br />
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<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-Leigh_Eric_Schmidt_1993_pp._209.E2.80.93245_11-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day#cite_note-Leigh_Eric_Schmidt_1993_pp._209.E2.80.93245-11"></a></sup>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-62846461509423765802013-01-14T15:44:00.000-05:002013-02-05T11:37:38.867-05:00Valentine's Day Gift Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Belated New Year!</div>
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Can you believe its 14 days into the New Year! And only a month away from Valentine's Day?! Doesn't it seem like Christmas was yesterday? Well, it does for me. From November to January, it is none stop for us with a tiny break in-between before Valentine's Day.<br />
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Speaking of Valentine's Day... Our Valentine's Day Gift Box is here! This year, I wanted to combine flavors that scream romance to me. And nothing screams romance like; chocolates, berries and flowers! We combined all three flavors in one cute little box.<br />
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So, the end result was Chocolate Cassis Sables with Raspberry Jam,
Chocolate Dipped Lavender Orange Sables Hearts and Hibiscus Rose
Marshmallow.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-72055441561858353212012-12-24T14:49:00.000-05:002012-12-24T15:14:14.550-05:00Happy Holidays!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3sAb-hTkaQ/UNio8vLYgwI/AAAAAAAABRY/g6qM9_R2QYs/s1600/Holiday_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3sAb-hTkaQ/UNio8vLYgwI/AAAAAAAABRY/g6qM9_R2QYs/s1600/Holiday_2012.jpg" height="395" title="Zugar Haus' Blog I Sugar 'n' Pickles " width="640" /></a></div>
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I probably say this every year, but... Can you believe it's Christmas <b><i>*already*</i></b>!
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I've been baking away like a crazy woman the past 2 days for family
gatherings that will starts today at my sister's house and end tomorrow at my
brother-in-law's house. Before I start enjoying my family, I wanted to take a
moment to wish you and your family the happiest of holidays!<br />
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Wishing you a festive holiday season!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-19096687329034820962012-11-26T16:50:00.000-05:002012-11-26T16:50:28.676-05:00{Cyber Monday} And Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_mgch2zGbdY/ULPgfmrYboI/AAAAAAAABQk/QEYjJwi68EI/s1600/Brown_Sugar_Pepita_with_Spiced_Ganache.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_mgch2zGbdY/ULPgfmrYboI/AAAAAAAABQk/QEYjJwi68EI/s1600/Brown_Sugar_Pepita_with_Spiced_Ganache.jpg" height="526" width="640" /></a></div>
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Can you believe that Thanksgiving has already came and went?! It's going by so fast! By the way... Happy Belated Thanksgiving! Hope everyone enjoyed their time with family and friends. Rich and I shared our time with both sides of the family tree. As you can image, there was a lot of driving and eating. I'm still feeling bloated and I think I'm still in a turkey haze. I need some major detox! <br />
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Speaking of food! As I mentioned a million times before, I love autumn and I'm always inspired by it's flavors. So, I would like to share our latest seasonal cookie... <a href="http://www.zugarhaus.com/brown_sugar_pepita.html" target="_blank">Brown Sugar Pepita Sablés with Spiced Ganache</a>.<br />
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Also... It's Cyber Monday and we are celebrating! Save 10% on all orders today only! Use coupon code: <b>CYBERMONDAY</b><br />
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Coupon code also be used on our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/zugarhaus" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>.<br />
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Hurry... Sale ends tonight!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-11398896024182822772012-10-01T10:14:00.000-04:002012-10-01T10:16:15.676-04:00Just Married!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IiGCxXkzVWk/UGmfYkdpS5I/AAAAAAAABP4/xsjSRpOFQrs/s1600/Jana%27s_Wedding_Decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IiGCxXkzVWk/UGmfYkdpS5I/AAAAAAAABP4/xsjSRpOFQrs/s640/Jana%27s_Wedding_Decor.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{Lounge Area} Both pictures were taken by my mom :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It’s official… My sister is now married!<br />
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And yes, we pulled it off! We accomplished our decorating
mission! Believe it or not, I’m actually kind of shocked with what we achieved!
If you recall (you can read the post <a href="http://sugarandpickles.blogspot.com/2012/09/where-did-summer-go.html" target="_blank">here</a>), I mentioned that we were trying to
achieve a South Beach vibe with a tropical twist.</div>
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I have to admit though; it wasn’t smooth sailing when we
arrived at the venue. Everything that could possibly go wrong went wrong. From
making thirteen cement bases, sewing 20-something throw pillows, hand-cutting PVC pipes and to making Polynesian
ceremonial flower rafts at 1:00AM. But it all came together and it was a
beautiful wedding…<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UpdjNECGVgs/UGmff96zwNI/AAAAAAAABQA/WAR4bJ9-Dfs/s1600/Jana%27s_Wedding_Decor_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UpdjNECGVgs/UGmff96zwNI/AAAAAAAABQA/WAR4bJ9-Dfs/s640/Jana%27s_Wedding_Decor_2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{Lounge Area} Cocktail tables with Polynesian ceremonial flower rafts as a centerpiece.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<i>To the newlyweds,</i><br />
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<i>We are so glad that the two of you have taken this step of love together. May you both grow to understand, respect and love one another more with each waking day. We wish you a very happy marriage and we can't wait to celebrate your love for years to come! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
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<i>Congratulations!</i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Love always,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>your big sister & brother-in-law </i></div>
</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-4779666436621719732012-09-25T16:34:00.000-04:002012-09-25T16:34:00.110-04:00It's Official... Autumn is Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JPqo_6cUB4E/UGH4Y-MFyZI/AAAAAAAABO0/jYEorf2oqws/s1600/Toasted_Oatmeal_Cranberry_Shortbread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JPqo_6cUB4E/UGH4Y-MFyZI/AAAAAAAABO0/jYEorf2oqws/s640/Toasted_Oatmeal_Cranberry_Shortbread.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After a summer of high humidity and extensive heat waves... Not to mention that it was in the high 80s this past week! Can you believe it? In September! So, it's been nice to finally have some relief this week.<br />
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With Autumn officially here! So is our <a href="http://www.zugarhaus.com/oatmeal_cranberry.html" target="_blank">Toasted Oatmeal Cranberry Shortbread</a> and our <a href="http://www.zugarhaus.com/pumpkin_seed_brittle.html" target="_blank">Spiced Pumpkin Seed Brittle</a>. By the way, we are working on some new seasonal flavors... So stay tuned <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvSWnikAp5g/UGH4d2XVxtI/AAAAAAAABO8/_gI3wydAzF8/s1600/Cinnamon+Pumpkin+Seed+Brittle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvSWnikAp5g/UGH4d2XVxtI/AAAAAAAABO8/_gI3wydAzF8/s640/Cinnamon+Pumpkin+Seed+Brittle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-32301063568504379292012-09-10T14:42:00.000-04:002012-09-10T15:11:20.325-04:00Where Did The Summer Go?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gNPLYxH1ftU/UE4w2XwwIwI/AAAAAAAABOM/djaK9t1Mq04/s1600/Where_Did_Summer_Go.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gNPLYxH1ftU/UE4w2XwwIwI/AAAAAAAABOM/djaK9t1Mq04/s640/Where_Did_Summer_Go.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
It has been an extremely long <s>week, month</s>… Nope! Extremely
long three months. Between work, family health crises, and my sister’s upcoming wedding;
it’s been crazy to say the least. Don’t you wish you could either clone
yourself or just completely punch out sometimes?! *sigh* I wish I could!<br />
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About 4 months ago, my sister decided to move up her wedding
to September. So, you can only imagine the go, go attitude/schedule we’ve been
in to get everything done. That includes… bridal shower, bachelorette and bachelor party (both my husband and I are in the wedding party), etc.<br />
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My sister and fiancé decided to rent out a beach house for their
venue. Obviously the theme is beach! They want a laid-back feel to their
wedding. This describes them and their ecstatic perfectly, but the laid-back
vibe kept getting more and more elaborate every day.<br />
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About a month or two ago… My sister decided to pass the decorating
baton to my mother. So naturally, I am automatically volunteered to help my
mom. This wouldn't be a huge issue if I didn't also have to take care of the dessert table for my sister's bridal shower (by the way... found out last minute that I had to do that as well). <br />
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Not to mention that we have to set-up tables, chairs and decorate around
a <b><i>HUGE</i></b> pool that takes up most of the property. Our idea was to cover the pool
and use the pool as a dance floor, but they don’t want to cover the pool. So,
yeah… I couldn’t even begin to tell you the lack of sleep over this. Almost
every idea we had was vetoed by the couple. It can be very
frustrating at times, but we’ll pull it off. <b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hopefully!</i></b><br />
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My mom and I have been pulling out our hair to say the least. At times, it feels like we are grasping at straws to figure out a decor that will work with the theme. I think we've shopped at every store in our
state and browsed every bridal website looking for wedding decorations. But I
finally came up with an idea that has been accepted by the couple! We are going with a South
Beach vibe (think Mondrian South Beach, but less lounge-y and not as upscale)
with a tropical twist. I figured this idea would work perfectly with the pool. </div>
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On top of helping with my sister's wedding, we've been dealing with family health issues. In January, my uncle found out that he has pancreatic cancer. He is now home recovering from surgery. He is waiting to restart chemotherapy, but it seems like everything is okay on that end (pun intended).<br />
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I know this is a long post, but bare with me. I'm almost done... I'm so embarrassed that the last time I wrote a post was back in May. So much for my <a href="http://sugarandpickles.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-year-and-resolutions.html" target="_blank">New Years' Resolution</a>! <br />
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So... Two weeks ago, my husband broke his fourth ("ring") toe! I'm just glad it was one clean break. No pins or surgery needed! But wait... it gets better!<br />
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My mom was feeling sick Monday and it got worse from there. She woke up on Wednesday with the right side of her face swollen and right eye swollen shut. She went to the hospital and has been there since. It turned out that she had an infection in her nasolacrimal canal and lacrimal sac. The hospital kept her for observation because they worry that if the infection spreads... there was a possibility for meningitis. It's now 5 days later... She's feeling better and itching to go home. My sister's wedding is 5 days away so, you can only imagine her anxiety. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>It has been one crazy summer! </b></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-79084795617055386492012-05-29T19:48:00.003-04:002012-05-31T15:43:58.142-04:00Rhubarb Lime Pie with Coconut Crumble<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVMrsY1o8TI/T8VgMdf1woI/AAAAAAAABMU/Mnw38mlzB4M/s1600/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVMrsY1o8TI/T8VgMdf1woI/AAAAAAAABMU/Mnw38mlzB4M/s640/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble_3.jpg" width="542" /></a></div>
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Happy Belated Memorial Day Everyone!</div>
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Did everyone have a wonderful weekend? I did! Although summer doesn't officially start until a few weeks yet... it unofficially started this weekend.<br />
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There has been a lot of family health issues and drama around here lately. So, an enjoyable three-day weekend was sorely needed. Our weekend was devoted to family gatherings, good friends and several trips to home improvement stores.<br />
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Of course our grill died this weekend... And during the most important grilling season! We tried really hard to revive her, but no dice. After trying to replace the burners, pipes, tubes, etc... We had to come to terms that she was gone.<br />
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While the husband grunted and made low inarticulate sounds as he tried to fix the grill... I headed into the kitchen.<br />
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Being that it was so hot and humid over this weekend... All I could think about was coconut popsicles, but I didn't have everything I needed at hand to make them. After a few minutes of trying to figure out what to make... I found the perfect combination of flavors to celebrate the unofficial start of summer.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HI2eSMhDWmU/T8VbaMteXuI/AAAAAAAABL4/IoU8TbqgTs4/s1600/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HI2eSMhDWmU/T8VbaMteXuI/AAAAAAAABL4/IoU8TbqgTs4/s640/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VUF0X9R1LeI/T8VfgjMptTI/AAAAAAAABMM/t1xtRGgrnIw/s1600/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VUF0X9R1LeI/T8VfgjMptTI/AAAAAAAABMM/t1xtRGgrnIw/s640/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I decided on making pie... Yeah, I know! I went from craving a frozen treat to baking something comforting. After all, it's still Spring and I usually celebrate Spring with some kind of rhubarb baked confection.<br />
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I was actually quite pleased with the end result... The coconut crumble offsets the tartness of the rhubarb and lime nicely.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OkdrjBElPZw/T8VjiPcNfhI/AAAAAAAABMg/cygmYE0Ht_E/s1600/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OkdrjBElPZw/T8VjiPcNfhI/AAAAAAAABMg/cygmYE0Ht_E/s640/Rhubarb_Lime_Pie_with_Coconut_Crumble_4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Rhubarb Lime Pie with Coconut Crumble</b></div>
yields: 9 -inch pie<br />
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<b>Pate Brisee</b>*<br />
2 1/2 cups (350 grams) All-Purpose Flour<br />
1 cups (226 grams) Unsalted Butter, chilled and diced<br />
1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt<br />
1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar<br />
2 tablespoons - 1/4 cup Chilled Water<br />
<br />
I like to make my pie crust by hand using a pastry knife, but you can also use a food processor.<br />
<br />
In the bowl of a food processor, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add
butter and process until the mixer resembles corn meal, about 8 - 10
seconds.<br />
<br />
With the machine running, add the chilled water in a slow, steady stream
through the feed tube. Pulse until the dough holds together without
being too wet. You might not have to use all of the chilled water. To test,
squeeze a small amount together. It should hold kind of like clay or
putty, it should not feel sticky or crumbly.<br />
<br />
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Flatten each into a disc and wrap
in plastic. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.<br />
<br />
Roll the dough into 1/8 -inch thick to fit a 9 -inch pie plate. Fold any overhang under and crimp or seal using the tines of a fork. Allow the pie shell sit in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.<br />
<br />
*This particular recipes yields (1) 9 -inch double crust or (2) single crust. You can freeze the other disk of pie crust for up to 3 months. <br />
<br />
<b>Filling</b><br />
2 1/2 lbs. (925 grams) Rhubarb, trimmed and sliced into 1/2 -inch thick<br />
3/4 cup (150 grams) Granulated Sugar<br />
1 tablespoon Cornstarch<br />
Zest if 1 Lime<br />
1 tablespoon fresh Lime Juice<br />
<br />
Adjust the oven rack to the middle of the oven. Line a baking sheet with foil to catch any juices that many bubble over while the pie bakes.<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350F.<br />
<br />
In a large bowl, toss the rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, lime juice and zest. Pour the filling into crust-lined
pie. Allow the pie to sit in the refrigerator while preparing the crumb topping.<br />
<br />
<b>Crumb Topping</b><br />
6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, chilled and diced<br />
3/4 cup (95 grams) All-Purpose Flour<br />
1 cup (95 grams) Sweetened Coconut Flakes<br />
1/4 cup (50 grams) Dark Brown Sugar<br />
1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt<br />
Zest of 1 Lime<br />
<br />
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse coconut until finely ground. Add flour, brown sugar, salt and lime zest, and pulse until combined. Add
butter and process until the mixer resembles corn meal, about 8 - 10
seconds.<br />
<br />
Sprinkle the crumb topping over the rhubarb filling into medium to large clumps. Bake for 20 minutes, then loosely tent the pie with foil (the coconut crumb topping browns quickly) and continue baking for 45 minutes. Transfer the pie to a wire rack and allow the pie to cool for at least 2 - 3 hours.<br />
<br />
<i><b>... and enjoy!</b></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-12959917700307311322012-04-19T17:58:00.000-04:002012-04-19T17:58:32.089-04:00{New Cookie Flavor} Lemon Lavender Oatmeal Shortbread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xnkm-Gz_0ko/T5CD2sUz_4I/AAAAAAAABH0/_kSXM6BE3sQ/s1600/Lemon_Lavender_Oatmeal_Shortbread_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="420" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xnkm-Gz_0ko/T5CD2sUz_4I/AAAAAAAABH0/_kSXM6BE3sQ/s640/Lemon_Lavender_Oatmeal_Shortbread_2.jpg" title="Zugar Haus | Lemon Lavender Oatmeal Shortbread" width="640" /></a></div>
Even though we had a mild winter this year, I'm glad Spring has finally arrived. It has been a crazy winter for my family and myself, but I'll save that story for a rainy day. All I can say is that I'm ready to shed the gloom and start to bloom anew {Did see what I did there...? Spring... Bloom anew...}.<br />
<br />
When I think of Spring... I think of citrus, <a href="http://sugarandpickles.blogspot.com/2010/04/red-celery.html" target="_blank">rhubarb pie</a>, flowers, riding motorcycles, asparagus, peas and my birthday {had to throw that in there}. With that in mind, I headed into our kitchen to recipe test and our latest cookie flavor was created; Lemon Lavender Oatmeal Shortbread.<br />
<br />
Our Lemon Lavender Oatmeal Shortbread is a delightful twist on a classic. We lightly toast and freshly ground oats... the earthiness of the oats is further enriched with a floral bouquet of crushed lavender and sweetened with our house-made lemon sugar. You can purchase them <a href="http://www.zugarhaus.com/lemon_lavender_oatmeal.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
By the way... this is just one of a few new cookies coming to our Spring/Summer Seasonal Gift Box. Stay tuned for our latest cookies. Want a hint for our next flavor...?! It contains dried fruit of an herb. Have you guessed what it is? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w8VoGGV2KXc/T5B8Uar5_EI/AAAAAAAABHo/LsWgOIU6fp8/s1600/Lemon_Lavender_Oatmeal_Shortbread_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="588" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w8VoGGV2KXc/T5B8Uar5_EI/AAAAAAAABHo/LsWgOIU6fp8/s640/Lemon_Lavender_Oatmeal_Shortbread_2.jpg" title="Zugar Haus | Lemon Lavender Oatmeal Shortbread" width="640" /></a></div>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-52834587123518224692012-04-03T16:57:00.001-04:002012-04-03T17:01:13.607-04:00{Share Our Strength} NYC Food Blogger Bake Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jzWan9eUIlY/T3tkhVCCdLI/AAAAAAAABGg/RgwEl-8w4ec/s1600/2012FoodBlooger_Final_BWOB_2_tagline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jzWan9eUIlY/T3tkhVCCdLI/AAAAAAAABGg/RgwEl-8w4ec/s1600/2012FoodBlooger_Final_BWOB_2_tagline.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">“We are vegetarians… Not because we want to be, but because we have to be”</span></span></i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span></div></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> - Marina (my grandmother)</span></span></div></blockquote><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">This is a quote I will forever remember and repeat when times are hard. My grandmother was a witty lady and she always made me feel like everything was going to be okay. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">While writing this particular post, I didn’t think I would find myself evoking so many emotions.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">I am the daughter of a single mother. So, at times, life was a bit strained. Sometimes we went without. My mother didn’t always have it easy, but she made it work for us. Every penny was pinched and budgeted… And nothing was ever wasted.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sometimes we would have a soft boiled egg for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Left-overs were turned into soup that would be stretched until the next paycheck. That being said, I can’t say I ever recall going to bed hungry. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Can you believe that nearly 1 in 5 children in America go to bed hungry?! It doesn’t have to be this way… Come take the <a href="http://nokidhungry.org/" style="color: #6aa84f;" target="_blank">No Kid Hungry pledge</a> with me. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Why take the pledge?</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Because ending childhood hunger is the most significant thing we can do. Together we have the power to make a difference.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Would you like to do more? No problem… All across America, people are hosting bake sales to support Share Our Strength. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Come join and/or support the movement to raise funds to end childhood hunger in America by 2015!</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Event: NYC Food Bloggers' Bake Sale</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">When: April 28th, 2012</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Time: 10:00<span style="font-size: x-small;">AM</span> - 5:00<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Where: Brooklyn Flea</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> 176 Lafayette Avenue (between Clermont & Vanderbilt Ave.)</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Brooklyn, NY 11238</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">For more information, check out the <a href="http://bakesalenyc.tumblr.com/" style="color: #6aa84f;" target="_blank">NYC Food Blogger's Bake Sale tumbler</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/256337767781865/" style="color: #6aa84f;" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-73476837484180124032012-02-29T12:56:00.000-05:002012-02-29T12:56:01.240-05:00Wedding Favors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AtLid_KU9pg/T05hQCgoQpI/AAAAAAAABEQ/rwICRz8259g/s1600/Tulle_Favor_Lime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AtLid_KU9pg/T05hQCgoQpI/AAAAAAAABEQ/rwICRz8259g/s640/Tulle_Favor_Lime.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-size: small;">Have you heard of Wedzu? No…!? Well, you should! Wedzu is an online marketplace dedicated to everything weddings, from wedding dresses to the most amazing handmade items for your ceremony to reception.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">As I mentioned before in a previous <a href="http://sugarandpickles.blogspot.com/2011/07/part-1-wedding-anniversary-and-road.html" target="_blank">post</a>; my husband and I wanted to elope, but it didn’t quite happen the way we planned it. We ended up putting together a “reception-ish” hootenanny {it really wasn’t a hootenanny… I just like that word. Hootenanny…} together in less than a month. *sigh* Wish Wedzu was around when I got married!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">With wedding season around the corner, I wanted to tell about a little something we’ve been working on. Based on my experience of trying to put together a wedding in less than a month… I put together a line of pre-designed wedding/party favors that is available on <a href="http://wedzu.com/seller/zugarhaus" target="_blank">Wedzu</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/zugarhaus" target="_blank">Etsy</a>.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I know there are pre-packaged favors out there, but how many lollipops or bottle openers do you really need or want?! There’s nothing wrong with that, if that is what you want to do. I just think it tends to look generic… my main problem, is that they never really look like it was chosen and/or designed just for you and your special day.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I think it’s all in the details. With that in mind, I tried to design our favors with an artisan feel yet with a touch of whimsy and elegance. At the moment, we have 3 different styles and 20 colors to choose from.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Don’t see a style or color you like… don’t worry! We are working on other styles and I would be happy to discuss packaging option and ideas with you.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">I believe that every special event should end on a sweet note… whether it’s your wedding, birthday or any special event.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vnu_xjAli7o/T05ks61-7RI/AAAAAAAABE4/Uxe1rlW5yc8/s1600/Feather_Favor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vnu_xjAli7o/T05ks61-7RI/AAAAAAAABE4/Uxe1rlW5yc8/s640/Feather_Favor.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;"> By the way... Happy Leap Year!</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4727603966114378315.post-85176546238351293652012-01-18T16:12:00.003-05:002012-01-18T20:04:29.965-05:00New Year... And Resolutions!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FbAqlGCHLpE/TxCRmyfDCYI/AAAAAAAAAxw/uTl8yA0Wupk/s1600/New_Year_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FbAqlGCHLpE/TxCRmyfDCYI/AAAAAAAAAxw/uTl8yA0Wupk/s640/New_Year_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’ve always enjoyed New Year’s Eve. Not because of all the parties, food, and cocktails, but because my mother taught me that it’s a time to be grateful for what you were blessed with throughout the year. It’s also a time to reflect on the changes we want and/or need to change. </span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I do not necessarily enjoy looking back on the past, but I love looking forward to the future…</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Usually by November I’m so ready to shed the old to start anew. Its day 18 of 2012… How are you guys making out with your New Year’s resolution?! Not so good?! Did you overreach this year?! Do you normally make any resolutions?!</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I normally do not make New Year’s resolutions because I tend to waaaaaaay overreach. And usually by April I’m completely disappointed with myself, but this year I did make one. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My resolution this year is to you, my blog friends and family out there. I pledge to post at least one or two posts a month. Yeah… yeah… I know what you’re saying… “Oh boy… here we go again!”</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As I admitted before {<a href="http://sugarandpickles.blogspot.com/2011/01/happy-blogiversary.html" target="_blank">here</a>}; I’m an extremely private person and writing a blog is a challenge for me, but this is a hump I need to overcome.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Oh… by the way, Sugar ‘n Pickles just turned two years old three days ago! Isn’t it so amazingly scary how time flies by?!</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Looking forward to 2012 with you blog friends! Happy New Year! </span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17371766964130930762noreply@blogger.com0