tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37275310001659432212024-03-13T06:27:11.812-07:00Life of a West Coast LatvianSanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.comBlogger932125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-62738474233806274962013-09-14T07:00:00.000-07:002013-09-14T07:00:04.424-07:00Goat Cheese Tarlets with BlackberriesOriginal recipe from <a href="http://www.thewickednoodle.com/mini-cheese-tarts-blackberries/">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
Filling<br />
5 oz. goat cheese, at room temperature<br />
3 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature<br />
1 large egg<br />
1 large egg yolk<br />
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme<br />
¼ tsp. salt<br />
¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper<br />
2 Tbsp. honey, warmed<br />
24 blackberries<br />
<br />
Cream Cheese Dough:<br />
1 cup all-purpose flour<br />
Pinch of salt (a pinch is three fingers)<br />
7 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons, at room temperature<br />
3 oz. cream cheese, cut into tablespoons, at room temperature<br />
<br />
Combine flour and salt in a food processor fitted with metal chopping bladeand pulse to combine. Add butter and cream cheese and pulse about 10 times, until mixture begins to clump together. Gather up dough and shape into a thick disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled and easy to handle (about 2 hours).<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 12-cup mini muffin tins. Divide dough into 24 equal pieces. Roll each dough ball between hands and flatten. Place flattened dough into each muffin tin and using fingers, press dough firmly and evenly up sides to make a pastry shell. Freeze 5 minutes. In the mean time, combine goat cheese and cream cheese together in a medium bowl until smooth. Add egg, yolk, minced thyme, salt and pepper and whisk until combined. Spoon equal amounts of filling into chilled pastry shells. Bake tartlets until crust is golden brown and filling is puffed (about 25 minutes). Let cool for 10 minutes in pans. Remove tartlets from pans and transfer to a wire cake rack to cool completely. Just before serving, lightly brush tops of tartlets with about 1 tablespoon of honey. Arrange berries on top as desired. Drizzle with the remaining honey. Sprinkle with the thyme leaves and serve.<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-57774667093160428002013-09-04T07:06:00.000-07:002013-09-05T07:06:47.982-07:003 years...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ho5WGhJUfE/UiiPn3XGO9I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/XLz3Qk0hV84/s1600/P1040578.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ho5WGhJUfE/UiiPn3XGO9I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/XLz3Qk0hV84/s320/P1040578.JPG" /></a><br />
Has it been three years already? Happy wedding anniversary to the love of my life, my partner in crime, and the tortoise to my hiking hare...Es tevi milu!<br />
<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-42960842976544292452013-09-03T18:46:00.001-07:002013-09-03T18:47:47.261-07:00Mojito in the Rock<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MDyhmvFpTsY/UiaKj9mfZlI/AAAAAAAAFxA/vKMYk5L6d_c/s1600/P1040572.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MDyhmvFpTsY/UiaKj9mfZlI/AAAAAAAAFxA/vKMYk5L6d_c/s320/P1040572.JPG" /></a><br />
Ahhh...the mojito IN the rock. Beautiful presentation. Difficult to achieve the final result. You wouldn't believe how long it took me to figure out how to ideally freeze these damn ice spheres so they were the right thickness to serve the drink without cracking. Let me just say that a lot of curse words (and possibly a syringe that was thrown across the kitchen) uttered that day.<br />
<br />
What you need is a set of spherical ice molds (like <a href="http://store.molecularrecipes.com/spherical-ice-molds-set-of-2/">THESE</a> ones). Add water. Freeze for 2-3 hours in the coldest part of your freezer. Now this timeline is subjective...it may take longer in your freezer then it did in mine. Also, if you forget about the molds it is likely that you will return to an ice chunk instead of a half-frozen sphere. Once partially frozen, insert a long needle (preferably 18 gauge or larger) into the sphere and suck out the liquid water from the center. After you successfully achieve this, inject a chilled beverage of your choice and REINSERT into the freezer for 30 minutes. Once nicely chilled from the freezer, GENTLY insert ice sphere into a glass and garnish. Remember: Trial and Error (with error being the key word)...<br />
<br />
My drink of choice was one of my <a href="http://longdistanceengagement.blogspot.com/2010/01/mojitos-aka-our-signature-cocktail.html">favorite</a> mojito recipes...<br />
3-4 sprigs of mint <br />
1 TBSP sugar <br />
1/2 lime sliced<br />
1 oz pineapple juice <br />
2 oz apple pucker <br />
2 oz Bacardi Limon <br />
Club soda<br />
<br />
Muddle the mint, sugar and lime until well combined. Add pineapple juice, pucker, rum and mix well. Top with club soda. Using a syringe, inject beverage into hollow ice sphere. Garnish with lime and mint. Serve immediately.<br />
<br />
Here is a video of how the chefs at Aviary did the same thing but with water balloons...<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3qqCfFfrhhs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-79126101343555462892013-09-01T06:57:00.001-07:002013-09-01T06:57:50.073-07:00Day Three of Mammal Watch 2013...<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egOKjB2wPBQ/UiNHHzWRgyI/AAAAAAAAFww/Ios-ysDmjvg/s1600/P1040561.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egOKjB2wPBQ/UiNHHzWRgyI/AAAAAAAAFww/Ios-ysDmjvg/s320/P1040561.JPG" /></a><br />
<i>"...Rough life for the dog. Auntie Sandra made him some home made Frosty Paws (frozen banana, peanut butter and Greek yogurt) to help combat the 90 degree heat...also he played with a new squeaky toy and he got dressed up in a new purple bandana for the Husky's game last night (P.S. UDub won and I totally believe it was from all of the good juju from Dempsey) Go Dawgs!"</i><br />
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Last day with the mammal...Rach and Jake make their return trip tonight. I'm going to take him out to the gorge for one last hike this morning when the weather is still nice and chilly. Babysitting was fun, but I've learned from the experience that we are not quite ready to get a dog just yet...<br />
<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-32805079998880821132013-08-31T21:26:00.002-07:002013-08-31T21:26:51.227-07:00Day Two of Mammal Watch 2013...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9H983m5rpQQ/UiLAYde1WnI/AAAAAAAAFwg/wleur699qqU/s1600/P1040541.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9H983m5rpQQ/UiLAYde1WnI/AAAAAAAAFwg/wleur699qqU/s320/P1040541.JPG" /></a><br />
<i>"...great success! Our diabolical plan of exhausting the dog through sheer exercise (and a benedryl-laced peanut butter sandwich) worked and we were all able to sleep through the night! Today's goal: repeat said workout scheme without Dempsey busting an ACL...I'm thinking Multnomah Falls..."</i><br />
<br />
I took him to work with me this morning under the assumption that the chilly foggy weather we had when I woke up would continue. Unfortunately as the day progressed, the weather cleared up and it became extremely hot and I decided that it would be unwise to take him on a long hike in 90 degree weather. Instead I made him some home made Frosty Paws, bought him a new elephant chew toy and played catch in the shady backyard.<br />
<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-5783458329252905892013-08-30T21:15:00.000-07:002013-08-31T21:27:06.835-07:00Day one of Mammal Watch 2013...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--uh_tGOT8J8/UiK_JM6cQJI/AAAAAAAAFwI/CghOIPyNrP4/s1600/P1040527.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--uh_tGOT8J8/UiK_JM6cQJI/AAAAAAAAFwI/CghOIPyNrP4/s320/P1040527.JPG" /></a><br />
<i>"...Who would have thought a 120lb Rottweiler would pine for his mommy? The dejected miserable howling began at midnight and after hours of it, around 4am Diz decided that he would just sleep in the guest bedroom with the dog to shut him up...Dempsey's punishment today? He'll be subjected to a 10 mile hike in attempt to tucker him out...if that doesn't work then thank God for sedatives..."</i><br />
<br />
We are babysitting Rach and Jake's giant pansy of a Rottweiler for the weekend as they are in San Diego for a long needed vacay...it'll be a great trial run for when we decide to get our own dog, but my goodness it's exhausting. Like having a child (or so I would assume). We'll see how it goes...<br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-90803398676311343412013-08-24T07:00:00.000-07:002013-08-24T07:47:43.458-07:00Bite Sized Bloody Marys<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UAh2I8q_pGg/UhfROH-x30I/AAAAAAAAFug/EasZ4w0TkAs/s1600/P1040480.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UAh2I8q_pGg/UhfROH-x30I/AAAAAAAAFug/EasZ4w0TkAs/s320/P1040480.JPG" /></a><br />
Alright friends, we’ve already seen how agar-agar can be used in the process of making balsamic vinegar caviar but let’s pause briefly to talk about what it is exactly…Agar-agar is unflavored vegetable gelatin that is derived from polysaccharides in red algae where it serves as a matrix for cellular walls. It is used as a stabilizer and thickening agent in many recipes. It is rich in iodine and trace minerals and is tasteless. When one adds agar-agar to a boiling liquid, it forms a hydrocolloid, causing the liquid to form a solid gel as it cools. If you can’t find agar-agar in any of your local stores, I suppose unflavored gelatin could be substituted in a pinch.<br />
<br />
This recipe is relatively simple and can be prepared in a few minutes! Remember, if you want to keep the alcoholic content of these bite-sized Bloody Mary “shots” you need to add the vodka at the very end of your boil before you pour the liquid into the celery sticks. I think that these would make a great little munchy for a cocktail party!<br />
<br />
Original recipe found <a href="http://www.cookingforengineers.com/recipe/317/Crunchy-Bloody-Mary">here</a>. <br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-DPpJqfTG4/Uhfbp5Dmn0I/AAAAAAAAFu8/-37AAhjkzoM/s1600/P1040483.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-DPpJqfTG4/Uhfbp5Dmn0I/AAAAAAAAFu8/-37AAhjkzoM/s320/P1040483.JPG" /></a><br />
Ingredients:<br />
1/2 cup of your favorite Bloody Mary mix or lacking that, Spicy V8 juice<br />
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce<br />
1/2 tsp celery salt<br />
1 tsp agar-agar<br />
1 tsp Tabasco sauce<br />
1/4 cup vodka (try habenero, jalapeno, or bacon flavored vodka for an extra kick!)<br />
Pepper to taste<br />
<br />
Instructions: In a small sauce pan, add the tomato juice, Worcestershire (or Wooster sauce, as Diz fondly calls it), celery salt, agar-agar, and hot sauce. Bring to a boil, then stir in the vodka and heat briefly. Using a spouted measuring cup, gently pour the hot juice into the celery stalks. It will immediately start to thicken and gelify as you pour. Go back and top off the celery ribs as needed so they're as full as possible. Put in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. Cut the stalks into bite sized pieces. Garnish with a tiny dollop of horseradish, chopped olives or jalapeno slices.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1XW5IIY332I/UhfT5xKLh_I/AAAAAAAAFus/aO_Es5VrhbU/s1600/P1040479.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1XW5IIY332I/UhfT5xKLh_I/AAAAAAAAFus/aO_Es5VrhbU/s320/P1040479.JPG" /></a><br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-453404137306728872013-08-23T08:37:00.001-07:002013-08-23T08:37:46.826-07:00Congratulations to KJ and Chunk!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8BXhcFbPeEE/UheBXT0MUNI/AAAAAAAAFuQ/NixXvkBmyBM/s1600/kjandchunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8BXhcFbPeEE/UheBXT0MUNI/AAAAAAAAFuQ/NixXvkBmyBM/s320/kjandchunk.jpg" /></a><br />
Lots of love and warm wishes to one of my favorite couples! Our dear friends KJ and Chunk have been together for YEARS now and he finally popped the question! I am so thrilled for them and wish them the very best!! Apsveicu!!!<br />
<br />
EJM!<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-19090652403507682782013-08-14T07:00:00.000-07:002013-08-14T07:00:02.017-07:00Radioactive Remix<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/aE2GCa-_nyU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
Loving this remix of the Imagine Dragons song "Radioactive" as preformed by Lindsey Stirling and the Pentatonix...I think I like it even better then the original!<br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-80620332654271778362013-08-13T14:40:00.002-07:002013-08-14T19:01:58.714-07:00Balsamic Vinegar Pearls<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-680aR8b6oCY/UgqczcONPPI/AAAAAAAAFtU/Hh60LLNTfHs/s1600/P1040459.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-680aR8b6oCY/UgqczcONPPI/AAAAAAAAFtU/Hh60LLNTfHs/s320/P1040459.JPG" /></a><br />
Recently I found myself flipping through the channels and had one of those competitive cooking shows catch my eye. One of the chef contestants decided to employ some molecular gastronomy magic and create carrot "caviar" that he served over his masterpiece meal. Intrigued, I realized that I have seen bits and pieces of this kind of cuisine science employed elsewhere at various restaurants over the years but never really put much thought to it outside of my meal. I have been trying to find new and fun ways to play in the kitchen and so I bought a <a href="http://store.molecularrecipes.com/molecular-gastronomy-kit/">Molecular Gastronomy beginners kit</a> and since then, I have been experimenting with gelification and spherification...Chemistry has never been a forte of mine (unlike Diz who likes to run around the house like a mad scientist with pH strips testing our hot tub weekly...) but I do love cooking and baking, which is as much of a science as it is an art. So instead of my apron, I donned my (clean and not-covered-with-too-much-pet-hair) white lab coat and began my homework... <br />
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Basic spherification is used for obtaining pearls with a very thin membrane easily bursts in your mouth as if there is no solid substance between your palate and the liquid. The technique calls for submerging a liquid with sodium alginate in a bath of calcium. This is the easiest way to spherify liquids, but has a short half-life and needs to be served immediately otherwise the pearl will continue to thicken and eventually will become fully a gel ball. <br />
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Reverse spherification is used for mixtures that are acidic (ph <5), alcoholic, or ones that contain calcium (such as dairy products). Unlike basic spherification, the process of gelification can be stopped when the sphere is removed from the sodium alginate bath and rinsed with water, resulting in a liquid center. With this process however, you will get a thicker jelly membrane around the sphere.
Cold oil spherification involves combining agar with a boiling liquid and then gently dribbling the hot liquid into a chilled oil to set the spheres in a firm gel. With this process, the whole pearl is gelified and you will not get that liquid "pop", but your caviar pearls will retain their shape when serving. This is the process I used for my balsamic vinegar pearls and was very satisfied with the texture and results.
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CzFk00DZhG0/Ugqkxn88YYI/AAAAAAAAFtk/ngCiTWmxRcc/s1600/P1040462.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CzFk00DZhG0/Ugqkxn88YYI/AAAAAAAAFtk/ngCiTWmxRcc/s320/P1040462.JPG" /></a><br />
Ingredients:<br />
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar<br />
1/2 tsp agar agar<br />
2 cups chilled olive oil<br />
<br />
Instructions: <br />
Place the olive oil in the freezer for 30 minutes. Mix the balsamic vinegar and the agar-agar and bring them to a boil. Using a pipette or large syringe drip the vinegar mixture into the olive oil slowly (the droplets will mesh together if you spray them into the oil too quickly. Using a fine mesh sieve, gently rinse the caviar with filtered water. Garnish your dish and serve!<br />
<br />
Still confused? Watch the how-to video...<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/s6FUuxcPoQw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
I ended up serving my balsamic vinegar with some heirloom tomatoes and basil from the garden with a side of fresh moz from Trader Joe's...yum!<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-45377640298791386722013-08-06T16:27:00.000-07:002013-08-13T16:30:12.544-07:00Love and Beer<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbOgC1nCPYk/UgrBB5SIfDI/AAAAAAAAFt0/ADbOL8Awdtw/s1600/P1040382.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbOgC1nCPYk/UgrBB5SIfDI/AAAAAAAAFt0/ADbOL8Awdtw/s320/P1040382.JPG" /></a><br />
Two years ago by chance Jake decided to call Diz up on a whim after 5 years of not seeing him. We were at the Portland Beer Festival with Rach who had just moved to Oregon...Those two crazy kids hit it off right away and the rest is history... Happy 2 year anniversary to another adorable chemE/veterinary couple!<br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-13839206589557474382013-06-27T19:12:00.003-07:002013-06-27T19:20:15.672-07:00Rosemary Love<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NY72ChpnmV4/Uczip0a6RRI/AAAAAAAAFrk/ytPJooPMh7A/s1600/P1040077.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NY72ChpnmV4/Uczip0a6RRI/AAAAAAAAFrk/ytPJooPMh7A/s320/P1040077.JPG" /></a><br />
This amazing specimen of a rosemary bush was recently purchased at our local Trader Joe's for the very reasonable price of $7.99! Are you kidding me?! I paid half that much for a spindly little shrub 1/16th that size at the beginning of the season! To whoever was the benevolent pricing god at the local Trader Joe's I extend to you a warm tip of the hat and THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! Who doesn't like a little bit of rosemary scenting their dinners/drinks/lotions, etc? It has a glorious sharp tang that grabs your nose and sparks the taste buds. Because I do adore the sight/scent/taste of the fragrant herb, here are a few rosemary related recipes and crafts that look promising...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_wxdHiYHILI/Uczt9NWXDBI/AAAAAAAAFr0/Z2Z1mgSw3_0/s347/rosemary1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_wxdHiYHILI/Uczt9NWXDBI/AAAAAAAAFr0/Z2Z1mgSw3_0/s347/rosemary1.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.pepperdesignblog.com/2012/12/05/handmade-gifts-rosemary-infused-olive-oil/">Rosemary</a> infused olive oil<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zScCGbdhmJA/UczuZAo_cII/AAAAAAAAFr8/ZIbsS1YWKVs/s295/rosemary2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zScCGbdhmJA/UczuZAo_cII/AAAAAAAAFr8/ZIbsS1YWKVs/s295/rosemary2.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/shine-food/summer-cocktails-herbs-175100141.html">Rosemary</a> pear cocktails<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O4KuJj_wONs/Uczu2sNd6dI/AAAAAAAAFsE/2ZaknOPn0Qg/s840/rosemary3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O4KuJj_wONs/Uczu2sNd6dI/AAAAAAAAFsE/2ZaknOPn0Qg/s840/rosemary3.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/shine-food/summer-cocktails-herbs-175100141.html">Rosemary</a> infused frozen peach bellini<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSWa9AZHGEg/UczviT8_WVI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/yI4_EzoBSGo/s354/rosemary4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSWa9AZHGEg/UczviT8_WVI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/yI4_EzoBSGo/s354/rosemary4.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.insockmonkeyslippers.com/bacon-tomato-rosemary-pizza-blogher-food-13">Rosemary</a> tomato, bacon pizza<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VXYsGzNXTZ0/Uczvyu6FveI/AAAAAAAAFsY/_kdcjez2_IM/s600/rosemary5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VXYsGzNXTZ0/Uczvyu6FveI/AAAAAAAAFsY/_kdcjez2_IM/s600/rosemary5.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://afoodcentriclife.com/maple-rosemary-glazed-cashews-a-gift-from-the-kitchen/">Rosemary</a> maple glazed cashews<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bUzGT0Id6-U/UczwFc8QGkI/AAAAAAAAFsg/YEchUgMovpk/s476/rosemary6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bUzGT0Id6-U/UczwFc8QGkI/AAAAAAAAFsg/YEchUgMovpk/s476/rosemary6.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.thecheesethief.com/2011/11/rosemary-filled-ornaments.html">Rosemary</a> filled ornaments<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rRnuh8MEXoQ/UczwXIGguZI/AAAAAAAAFso/yuNeR2bNsJM/s400/rosemary7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rRnuh8MEXoQ/UczwXIGguZI/AAAAAAAAFso/yuNeR2bNsJM/s400/rosemary7.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://northwestgifts.com/rosemary-myrtle-organic-wreath/">Rosemary</a> myrtle wreath<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJQMBOwAEHo/Uczw7Khv-kI/AAAAAAAAFs0/8e-rU8FDoWg/s831/rosemary8.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJQMBOwAEHo/Uczw7Khv-kI/AAAAAAAAFs0/8e-rU8FDoWg/s831/rosemary8.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://goodideasforyou.com/mix-a-match/2360-diy-rosemary-mint-shave-cream.html">Rosemary</a> mint shaving cream<br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-70677857077777254702013-06-25T09:50:00.003-07:002013-06-25T09:50:49.896-07:00Sad Cat Diaries<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PKffm2uI4dk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
"Dear diary...it is three in the morning. The Authorities have closed the door to the bedroom. I can only assume they have forgotten about me and have left me here to die. As a last resort I will stand post for the rest of the night and sing the song of my people in hopes they rescue me..."<br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-32193395781460798012013-06-23T07:57:00.000-07:002013-06-24T08:09:48.251-07:00Jāņu siers<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AMm9hueXrCI/UchcCBlxBMI/AAAAAAAAFq4/9_wY757n0xg/s1600/siers.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AMm9hueXrCI/UchcCBlxBMI/AAAAAAAAFq4/9_wY757n0xg/s320/siers.jpg" /></a> Image from <a href="http://spice.ucoz.lv/publ/59-1-0-528">here</a><br />
Classic fare for the Summer Solstice, Jāņu siers is a soft, mild, creamy cheese that is speckled with caraway seeds, giving it a bit of a bitter, aromatic bite. When celebrating Jāņi, everyone present is offered a bite of cheese and a mug of beer by the host, and so it is important to know just how to make this Latvian appy. Everyone has their own recipe and everyone claims that theirs is the best, but this is the one that I have been trying to perfect. Original recipe from the Lett's Cook and Bake Latvian Cookbook (slightly tweaked of course).<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JBhiHUuk7g/UchefLe0PsI/AAAAAAAAFrM/Ytg0BcTRDag/s1600/P1030718.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JBhiHUuk7g/UchefLe0PsI/AAAAAAAAFrM/Ytg0BcTRDag/s320/P1030718.JPG" /></a><br />
Ingredients:<br />
1 quart whole milk<br />
1 quart buttermilk<br />
2 lbs small curd cottage cheese<br />
1/2 cup dry curd cottage cheese<br />
2 eggs, slightly beaten<br />
2 TBSP butter<br />
2 TBSP caraway seeds<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
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Instructions: In a large pot, mix the first four ingredients and heat on low without stirring until small bubbles begin to form around the edge and the curds have congealed into a semi-solid mass that pulls away from the whey. Do NOT bring to a boil. This process takes about 45 minutes. <br />
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Pour the semi-solid mass into a moistened, cheesecloth lined colander. Let it drain for about 30 minutes, then twist the corners of the cheesecloth and twist together to form a ball. Let drain overnight.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hu23wxUwssM/UcheX3mQpEI/AAAAAAAAFrE/vk0dga9hwcg/s1600/P1030720.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hu23wxUwssM/UcheX3mQpEI/AAAAAAAAFrE/vk0dga9hwcg/s320/P1030720.JPG" /></a><br />
The next morning, place the well drained curds into a 2-quart saucepan. Add the remaining ingredients and stir constantly over low heat until the mixture forms a smooth, satiny ball. Stir it vigorously to break up the curds and ensure a smooth consistency. This process takes about 15 minutes.<br />
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Pack the mixture into a buttered bowl or bread loaf pan and let cool. When cool, remove from the pan and wrap in plastic wrap/foil and let it set in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours until serving. Enjoy!<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZzRywdAoZY/Uchen99i1DI/AAAAAAAAFrU/z9if1_dF9qA/s1600/siers2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZzRywdAoZY/Uchen99i1DI/AAAAAAAAFrU/z9if1_dF9qA/s320/siers2.jpg" /></a><br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-40105049994049603492013-06-22T07:39:00.000-07:002013-06-24T07:42:05.897-07:00Līgo! Līgo!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEMkvX1sqFk/UchZ9anOM4I/AAAAAAAAFqs/jb5FejDtuIo/s1600/ugunskurs.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEMkvX1sqFk/UchZ9anOM4I/AAAAAAAAFqs/jb5FejDtuIo/s320/ugunskurs.jpg" /></a><br />
Visu gadu dziesmas krāju,<br />
Jāņu dienas gaidīdama;<br />
Nu atnāca Jāņu diena,<br />
Nu dziesmiņas jāizdzied.<br />
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Wishing everyone a happy summer solstice! Enjoy the longest day of the year today by eating some cheese, drinking some beer, jumping over bonfires, singing and welcoming the sunrise. Priecīgus Jāņus! Līgo! Līgo!<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-6071972439916642962013-06-21T07:31:00.000-07:002013-06-24T07:37:38.807-07:00How to make a Vaiņags<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KqBXV8I2MQ/UchUV2hOc0I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/d5wfd7FZNaI/s1600/vainags.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KqBXV8I2MQ/UchUV2hOc0I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/d5wfd7FZNaI/s320/vainags.jpg" /></a><br />
With the summer solstice rapidly approaching, one needs to know how to welcome the longest day of the year. I'm going to give you a brief run down on how to make a <i>vaiņags</i>, or a flower crown. The circlet that is made by weaving flowers together is a pagan symbol of the sun. It was believed that upon donning the crown on the solstice, the wearer would be blessed and protected against illness. In contrast to the flower crowns worn by women, the men would put on crowns made of oak leaves. Another tradition was to save the vaiņags that was worn the previous year and then on the solstice toss it in the large bonfire as an offering to bring the person luck.<br />
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To weave your own flower crown, you need a large bouquet of flowers (preferably daisies and wild grasses), shears, and string or floral wire. Bunch together in small layers and gently weave the wire through the bundles, making sure there are no gaps. Be generous with your flowers, you don't want the crown looking too sparse (you can always go back and fill in the blanks once you are done). Once you have a long chain, test it by wrapping it around your head - you'll want it slightly smaller then the circumference of your head because the crown does tend to stretch out throughout the evening of festivities. Finish by weaving together the ends of the circlet and hiding the end of your wire. Fill in any blank areas with extra flowers. Place the crown on your head and enjoy!<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DknNWgyL-fE/UchUPf5ixAI/AAAAAAAAFqI/6kISIk5Ww8Y/s1600/P1030784.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DknNWgyL-fE/UchUPf5ixAI/AAAAAAAAFqI/6kISIk5Ww8Y/s320/P1030784.JPG" /></a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SqQjUrtkhdc/UchUKtfdGII/AAAAAAAAFqA/PBuQuyFH20o/s1600/P1030786.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SqQjUrtkhdc/UchUKtfdGII/AAAAAAAAFqA/PBuQuyFH20o/s320/P1030786.JPG" /></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q6Pn7_BNoNY/UchUE02mDdI/AAAAAAAAFp4/t7DVX1vQQG8/s1600/P1030788.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q6Pn7_BNoNY/UchUE02mDdI/AAAAAAAAFp4/t7DVX1vQQG8/s320/P1030788.JPG" /></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqBYab-oBk4/UchZBrE259I/AAAAAAAAFqg/E58cwKDye0w/s1600/P1040074.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqBYab-oBk4/UchZBrE259I/AAAAAAAAFqg/E58cwKDye0w/s320/P1040074.JPG" /></a><br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-55386376236292848122013-06-20T23:00:00.000-07:002013-06-21T18:39:07.124-07:00Silver Star Mountain Hike<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zGD5OX1DHtk/Ub-D9iZP1_I/AAAAAAAAFlo/6DJr7fgLnKo/s1600/P1030974.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zGD5OX1DHtk/Ub-D9iZP1_I/AAAAAAAAFlo/6DJr7fgLnKo/s320/P1030974.JPG" /></a><br />
Round Trip: 5.7 miles<br />
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate<br />
Elevation Gain: 1460 feet<br />
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This one was a fun and easy hike that Diz and I did several weeks ago, just as the wildflowers were beginning to take off up in the alpine meadows. The hike was fun...the car ride to get to said hike was not...the back logging roads were so pitted, uneven, and bumpy that for the first time in my life I became carsick and had to pull over to the side of the road for some fresh air and so I wouldn't vomit. It's also quite the long drive along these "roads" and it took us over an hour to get to the trail head even though mileage-wise it wasn't too far.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TDYL4QiiDo/UcT_ibi38PI/AAAAAAAAFpI/BiqMaDaG__8/s1600/P1030930.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TDYL4QiiDo/UcT_ibi38PI/AAAAAAAAFpI/BiqMaDaG__8/s320/P1030930.JPG" /></a><br />
Once we finally got there and the green around my gills began to fade, the climb was easy and steady...this would be a very family friendly hike, as proven by the hoards of children running ahead of their huffing and puffing parents. If you want a secluded trek along beautiful vistas, this one is not for you folks. It was crowded to the point of almost absurdity. Anyway, there are several loop options on the mountain and we decided to tackle Ed's Loop because of a stunning natural rock arch that is part of the trail.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYLxSsjgebQ/UcT_vE15v7I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/O7dgorHVzvE/s1600/P1030947.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYLxSsjgebQ/UcT_vE15v7I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/O7dgorHVzvE/s320/P1030947.JPG" /></a><br />
We wandered past lovely rock formations and followed what seemed to be just a game-trail, knife-like and cutting along the steep slopes which yielded lovely views of the valley below. The Bear Grass was just beginning to bloom and the Indian Paintbrush dotted the green meadow with beautiful contrast. I tried to do some geocaching but because of the crowds it was almost impossible to be inconspicuous. <br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pQAjtGFvr-k/UcUAEQ1E8qI/AAAAAAAAFpg/pMtckV6C76A/s1600/P1030953.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pQAjtGFvr-k/UcUAEQ1E8qI/AAAAAAAAFpg/pMtckV6C76A/s320/P1030953.JPG" /></a><br />
Part of the trail was a bit of a hand-over-hand rock climbing scramble, and there was still a smidgen of snow on the shadier parts of the slope but overall it was easy going. When we got to the part of the trail where all others merged, the crowds turned into hoards as people ascended the last little bit to the peak. We would have loved to have the top vista all to ourselves but alas, about 40 people were chowing down on energy bars, massaging sore feet, and taking pictures of the surrounding mountains which could be seen in the distance. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-56CDeJ7T_Xg/UcT_5DAj7tI/AAAAAAAAFpY/hgZw0C8q2ds/s1600/P1030962.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-56CDeJ7T_Xg/UcT_5DAj7tI/AAAAAAAAFpY/hgZw0C8q2ds/s320/P1030962.JPG" /></a><br />
After a bit of a breather and after we got our fill of the view, we headed down the loop trail for more wildflowers, mountains and people. I have to say, one of my pet peeves is when people don't have an ounce of trail courtesy (specifically when a slow moving crowd sprawls across the entire width of the trail and does not scoot over despite the fact they can hear you behind them). Typically it is with these family-friendly hikes that are considered "easy" that you'll find this issue (at least in my experience...never in the back country and never on a hike that is classified "difficult")<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn6Vdj-T6II/UcUANQ35xLI/AAAAAAAAFpo/_jYTQl44R5Y/s1600/P1030976.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn6Vdj-T6II/UcUANQ35xLI/AAAAAAAAFpo/_jYTQl44R5Y/s320/P1030976.JPG" /></a><br />
Anyway after an easy 5.7 miles were were back at the car and headed home, but only after we stopped at Amnesia Brewing for a victory beer.<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-47953242984659027192013-06-19T09:24:00.000-07:002013-06-19T21:10:53.599-07:00Reg Deg! Our DIY Fire Pit<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aL9FP4UJaWU/UcCMdxa2MTI/AAAAAAAAFmg/LDQ-3hQKyks/s1600/firepit.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aL9FP4UJaWU/UcCMdxa2MTI/AAAAAAAAFmg/LDQ-3hQKyks/s320/firepit.jpg" /></a><br />
Diz was quite the busy bee when I was away in Seattle for my CE conference...look at what he made! We finally have our own fire pit! You can't begin to imagine just how excited I am...My favorite smell in the world is smoke from a bonfire. It elicits memories from hundreds of wonderful nights spent with friends, camping, grilling, and just having a good time. It was one of those things that was an absolute requirement now that we have a place of our own with land. Big thanks to Rach who helped dig and lay the stone work! I owe you a bottle of wine girl!<br />
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Instructions and videos on how to make your own DIY fire pit can be found <a href="http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/tv/ask-toh/video/0,,20617589,00.html">here</a>. Total cost was about $200.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rSdgW15JNj8/UcCb_467A3I/AAAAAAAAFoA/RL5CsDTRtIY/s1600/firepit1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rSdgW15JNj8/UcCb_467A3I/AAAAAAAAFoA/RL5CsDTRtIY/s320/firepit1.JPG" /></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rCWDtznN0Hg/UcCcEZ1BklI/AAAAAAAAFoI/8-qOMu74xOU/s1600/firepit2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rCWDtznN0Hg/UcCcEZ1BklI/AAAAAAAAFoI/8-qOMu74xOU/s320/firepit2.JPG" /></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0VO0ugPAIA/UcCcH_3S2fI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/BsJtFCTFFUk/s1600/firepit3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0VO0ugPAIA/UcCcH_3S2fI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/BsJtFCTFFUk/s320/firepit3.JPG" /></a><br />
Beautiful isn't it? And just in time for lazy summer nights spent with friends!<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-78742331549695059012013-06-18T09:24:00.000-07:002013-06-18T10:03:15.904-07:00Red red radishes!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CO_YIxsVzzE/UcCJd3uHffI/AAAAAAAAFmI/mjXVjPoh-BU/s1600/P1030984.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CO_YIxsVzzE/UcCJd3uHffI/AAAAAAAAFmI/mjXVjPoh-BU/s320/P1030984.JPG" /></a><br />
I am proud to reveal my first crop of the season! Peppery and red, crunchy and delicious radishes! I'm super excited to see that my perpetually tragic brown-thumb-of-gardening-related-plant-death has not claimed another victim in my new raised beds!! Woohoo! However, with all that celebration and happy dances to the gardening gods being said and done, Diz isn't really a fan of radishes so I have to find creative ways to serve these guys...here are a few things from pinterest that look edible and interesting...<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cVtp54TItkw/UcCO28IAAqI/AAAAAAAAFnI/-f-Gst9Sioc/s1600/radish1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cVtp54TItkw/UcCO28IAAqI/AAAAAAAAFnI/-f-Gst9Sioc/s320/radish1.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://whipup.net/2013/06/15/make-it-local-eat-ii/">Sweet and Sour radish pickles and Radish pesto</a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UhfVlsRYCZA/UcCPL4dxxtI/AAAAAAAAFnQ/2SVfKarpAHE/s1600/radish2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UhfVlsRYCZA/UcCPL4dxxtI/AAAAAAAAFnQ/2SVfKarpAHE/s320/radish2.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.kitchentreaty.com/radish-goat-cheese-pizza-with-spicy-mixed-greens-optional-chicken/">Radish and goat cheese pizza<br />
</a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7TIRWMyd5vU/UcCPnp_vS9I/AAAAAAAAFnY/IU9bIedCwRw/s1600/radish3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7TIRWMyd5vU/UcCPnp_vS9I/AAAAAAAAFnY/IU9bIedCwRw/s320/radish3.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://homeandgarden.chickettes.com/what-to-do-with-radishes-four-super-easy-radish-recipes/">Cucumber and radish salad</a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NxJgqwhgaQ/UcCP7JaBO9I/AAAAAAAAFng/YdPzz3hhoqY/s1600/radish4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NxJgqwhgaQ/UcCP7JaBO9I/AAAAAAAAFng/YdPzz3hhoqY/s320/radish4.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://homeandgarden.chickettes.com/what-to-do-with-radishes-four-super-easy-radish-recipes/">Radish dip/spread</a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FsiZ7aMg1Ds/UcCQQk4_viI/AAAAAAAAFno/tKuGNsZMpkc/s1600/radish5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FsiZ7aMg1Ds/UcCQQk4_viI/AAAAAAAAFno/tKuGNsZMpkc/s320/radish5.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.sunset.com/food-wine/kitchen-assistant/radish-recipes-00418000078803/page5.html">Nori radish toasts</a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8az5GhhppQ/UcCQ6XmNVRI/AAAAAAAAFnw/eQBKtjfWZ9k/s1600/radish6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8az5GhhppQ/UcCQ6XmNVRI/AAAAAAAAFnw/eQBKtjfWZ9k/s320/radish6.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.theage.com.au/news/epicure/eggsquisite/2006/03/26/1143330924015.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap2">Hard-boiled Eggs with dukkah,cucumber, olives and radish</a><br />
Radishes are members of the Brassicaceae (mustard or cabbage) family. The root is related to kale, broccoli, cauliflower, and horseradish, among others. They are low calorie (1 cup of sliced radishes only has 19 calories) and they are a good source of anti-oxidants, electrolytes, minerals, vitamins and dietary fiber. They contain adequate levels of folates, vitamin B-6, riboflavin, thiamin and minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper and calcium. Both root and top greens are used for cooking (the greens seem to contain more vitamins and minerals then the roots themselves and can be used in salads, pesto, and soups). Fun fact: you know the old saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away"? Well evidently an old Chinese proverb is rather similar regarding the radish: "Eating pungent radish and drinking hot tea, let the starved doctors beg on their knees." Cheers to this awesome health food that is very easy to grow!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0_GEDQ8tUU/UcCJlsBVlRI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/HhRB6mPIqk8/s1600/P1030985.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0_GEDQ8tUU/UcCJlsBVlRI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/HhRB6mPIqk8/s320/P1030985.JPG" /></a><br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-88881040307341073372013-06-17T14:42:00.000-07:002013-06-17T14:42:06.810-07:00Puppy Up<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10D0UZGcSQk/Ub-A3XYU36I/AAAAAAAAFlA/Fgdx9D-vjQo/s1600/puppyup.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10D0UZGcSQk/Ub-A3XYU36I/AAAAAAAAFlA/Fgdx9D-vjQo/s320/puppyup.jpg" /></a> Image via <a href="http://www.2milliondogs.org/">2 Million Dogs</a><br />
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During the ACVIM conference in Seattle, we came across a booth in the exhibition hall that was supporting an organization called 2 Million Dogs. Goose stopped me in front of it and told me how several techs and doctors at his clinic were really involved in the group and their goal. Intrigued, I picked up a brochure and the lovely lady who was manning the booth started telling me their story...<br />
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It began with a promise to raise awareness of canine cancer one mile, one city, and one person at time. Luke Robinson with his two dogs walked 2000 miles from Austin to Boston to fulfill the promise he made to his dog Malcolm who died from this horrible disease.<br />
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2 Million Dogs was formed on the belief that if 2 dogs can walk 2000 miles to bring awareness to cancer surely 2 million dogs can walk 2 miles. Through The Puppy Up! Walk, they are building the largest pet and people cancer community in the world; from business people to artists to scientists and humanitarians, a partnership forged with the singular purpose of ridding the world of its deadliest disease.<br />
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The 2 Million Dogs Foundation is committed to discovering the common links between canine and human cancers and the causes of these cancers through comparative oncology research. <br />
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I thought this was a fantastic cause and wanted to find out more. I see people deal with grief and heartache each and every day because their pet has developed a cancer and think this would be a great organization to support. Sign up for a 2 Million Dogs Puppy Up! Walk… there will never be a better time like this to Puppy Up! against cancer.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YC_mN_mCbsw/Ub93gQmNXWI/AAAAAAAAFkw/wEmmYWBEyXQ/s1600/2milliondogs.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YC_mN_mCbsw/Ub93gQmNXWI/AAAAAAAAFkw/wEmmYWBEyXQ/s320/2milliondogs.png" /></a><br />
To see if there is a walk in your area look <a href="http://2milliondogs.org/page/6/walks/walks">here</a>.<br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-3399307569673483122013-06-16T13:23:00.000-07:002013-06-17T13:23:18.928-07:00Happy Father's Day!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OKgGfcVczU4/Ub9v4CghwVI/AAAAAAAAFkg/j-XxxgJzvI8/s1600/dadstache.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OKgGfcVczU4/Ub9v4CghwVI/AAAAAAAAFkg/j-XxxgJzvI8/s320/dadstache.jpg" /></a><br />
Wishing my Dad a very happy Father's Day! Have a beer, BBQ and take it easy today Dad! You are the best! Es tevi mīlu!<br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-80760929203373463162013-06-14T07:00:00.000-07:002013-06-17T13:14:44.925-07:00Latvian Brown Sweet Sauerkraut<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfCeshTYTjo/Ub9sWn6KLnI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/DLCrBS6s0kA/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfCeshTYTjo/Ub9sWn6KLnI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/DLCrBS6s0kA/s320/unnamed.jpg" /></a> Image via <a href="http://www.yummly.com/recipes/side-pork-sauerkraut">Yummly</a><br />
One of the classic Latvian side dishes that can be found at any family event or gathering is sauerkraut or <i>skābie kāposti</i>. Not the slimy, bright yellow, raw stuff found in a can and unceremoniously slathered on a hotdog bun (though this version is absolutely stellar when served with brats). This version is lovingly stewed for hours and combined with brown sugar and bacon for a sweet 'n' sour 'n' savory delicious dish. There are many different varieties and recipes for this Latvian staple, but here is my grandma's recipe that was passed down to my mom and then to me. Hope you enjoy!<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f3AGHj3HlJU/Ub9sLYhZbDI/AAAAAAAAFkI/1yZUX5DFtu4/s1600/P1030981.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f3AGHj3HlJU/Ub9sLYhZbDI/AAAAAAAAFkI/1yZUX5DFtu4/s320/P1030981.JPG" /></a><br />
Ingredients:<br />
28 oz finely shredded sauerkraut<br />
2 apples, diced<br />
2 bay leaves<br />
1 onion finely chopped<br />
1 tsp caraway seeds<br />
4 TBSP brown sugar<br />
1 package of bacon, cooked and crumbled<br />
pepper to taste<br />
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Instructions:<br />
Drain sauerkraut and set aside liquid. Crisp bacon and save the drippings. Take handfuls of drained sauerkraut and fry in the hot bacon drippings until the edges are slightly browned. Combined cooked sauerkraut, onion, apples, caraway seeds and sugar in large pot. Add water until just barely covering the mixture. Bring to a boil; then lower heat and simmer for 2.5-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more sugar as needed, gradually, while sauerkraut is cooking, tasting often. End result should be pleasantly sweet-sour, but not overly sweet. <br />
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Note: The more the sauerkraut is re-heated the better it gets. It is recommended to make it several days prior to serving and keeping refrigerated in the mean time. <br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-57993733012925110902013-06-11T20:13:00.000-07:002013-06-11T20:13:19.982-07:00{Etsy Love} Father's Day Cards<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BLg4Jskq7_s/Ubfb6fv24DI/AAAAAAAAFi0/dehiG3tIiXc/s1600/father7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BLg4Jskq7_s/Ubfb6fv24DI/AAAAAAAAFi0/dehiG3tIiXc/s320/father7.jpg" /></a><br />
Get your own <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/153402491/funny-fathers-day-printable-cards-5x7?ref=shop_home_active">here</a><br />
A couple days left to send out your Father's Day cards to that special man in your life! Here are some of my favorites from Etsy...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s79yMDoBNzs/UbfcdgCDG-I/AAAAAAAAFi8/CCR8wscvMFs/s1600/cards1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s79yMDoBNzs/UbfcdgCDG-I/AAAAAAAAFi8/CCR8wscvMFs/s320/cards1.jpg" /></a><br />
Thanks for Killing All Those <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/98703170/fathers-day-card-card-for-dad-thanks-for?ref=shop_home_active">Spiders</a
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kpcd2l8a9Yk/Ubfc_X9AWpI/AAAAAAAAFjE/QcNPcb_T4XM/s1600/cards2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kpcd2l8a9Yk/Ubfc_X9AWpI/AAAAAAAAFjE/QcNPcb_T4XM/s320/cards2.jpg" /></a><br />
To a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/151277895/fathers-day-card?ref=shop_home_active">Gentleman and a Scholar</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3RusSqens2M/UbfdrNBbidI/AAAAAAAAFjM/_c_poE6bFo4/s1600/cards3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3RusSqens2M/UbfdrNBbidI/AAAAAAAAFjM/_c_poE6bFo4/s320/cards3.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74402590/marvellous-dad-birthday-fathers-day-card?ref=shop_home_active">Marvelous</a> Dad<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSIQE4BZB_U/UbffgjSw4mI/AAAAAAAAFjc/kEaRdX9M55Y/s1600/cards4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSIQE4BZB_U/UbffgjSw4mI/AAAAAAAAFjc/kEaRdX9M55Y/s320/cards4.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/99393297/happy-fathers-day-card-nuts-bolts?ref=shop_home_feat">Nuts n' Bolts</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-efqrx9bgyAI/Ubff7C5EwTI/AAAAAAAAFjk/chai2tHucLg/s1600/cards5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-efqrx9bgyAI/Ubff7C5EwTI/AAAAAAAAFjk/chai2tHucLg/s320/cards5.jpg" /></a><br />
I <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/150739502/fathers-day-card-funny-fathers-day-card?ref=shop_home_feat">heart</a> you daddy<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GS9huuSIZjs/Ubfg1DoIBDI/AAAAAAAAFj0/85nL5-ykNvY/s1600/cards6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GS9huuSIZjs/Ubfg1DoIBDI/AAAAAAAAFj0/85nL5-ykNvY/s320/cards6.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/100244399/happy-fathers-day-card-glorious-beard?ref=shop_home_active&ga_search_query=fathers%2Bday">Beard love</a><br />
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Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-43759882735030899202013-06-10T23:00:00.000-07:002013-06-11T10:29:00.927-07:00Father's Day Gifts for the Geeky Dad<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E5N6r08HQ3M/UbdeOpVTJ1I/AAAAAAAAFik/yXV0fsapA2Q/s1600/father.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E5N6r08HQ3M/UbdeOpVTJ1I/AAAAAAAAFik/yXV0fsapA2Q/s320/father.jpg" /></a> Image via <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/151836465/darth-vader-fathers-day-or-birthday-card?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a><br />
Father's Day is coming up and for all of you who have geeky dads like I do, here are some awesome gifts to show him that you care. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0sPefzQmCU/UbdaZbXHMjI/AAAAAAAAFho/N6F_l7HmluU/s1600/father6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0sPefzQmCU/UbdaZbXHMjI/AAAAAAAAFho/N6F_l7HmluU/s320/father6.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/97015317/star-wars-han-solo-frozen-in-carbonite?ref=shop_home_active">Han Solo Carbonite iPhone Case</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qf8noet-zfM/UbdauaLMslI/AAAAAAAAFhw/tEEUQXyVhRw/s1600/father5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qf8noet-zfM/UbdauaLMslI/AAAAAAAAFhw/tEEUQXyVhRw/s320/father5.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fashionablygeek.com/bags/the-suit-bag-all-the-superheros-are-using/">Superhero suit bag</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w6-Q5vzSbFY/UbdbNTm09SI/AAAAAAAAFh4/dZHmoxQT_9U/s1600/father3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w6-Q5vzSbFY/UbdbNTm09SI/AAAAAAAAFh4/dZHmoxQT_9U/s320/father3.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/8cff/?pfm=geektoys_featured_8cff_4#tabs">Dr Who Sonic Screwdriver Pen</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1-LnPBG1Hzk/Ubdbsi1tTdI/AAAAAAAAFiE/QLJ8xbDtJCo/s1600/father1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1-LnPBG1Hzk/Ubdbsi1tTdI/AAAAAAAAFiE/QLJ8xbDtJCo/s320/father1.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.coolmomtech.com/2011/06/periodic_table_element_pillow.php">Father starts with Fluorine Pillow</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uxuatPkR-C4/Ubdb2-l2DnI/AAAAAAAAFiM/wQ2ARkRCM0I/s1600/father2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uxuatPkR-C4/Ubdb2-l2DnI/AAAAAAAAFiM/wQ2ARkRCM0I/s320/father2.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/dea2/?cpg=cj&ref=&CJURL=&CJID=2975314">Star Trek Enterprise Pizza Cutter</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYtyg8vp_B0/UbdcRh_C66I/AAAAAAAAFiU/BRwTew42eiE/s1600/father4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYtyg8vp_B0/UbdcRh_C66I/AAAAAAAAFiU/BRwTew42eiE/s320/father4.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59568926/robot-inferno-red-necktie-diesel?ref=shop_home_active">Robot tie</a><br />
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Cheers!<br />
Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3727531000165943221.post-39379743980611771032013-06-06T17:00:00.000-07:002013-06-06T21:17:43.116-07:00Herman Creek to Wahtum Lake Hike<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kJUbFv-MgZA/UbFa6eRH0DI/AAAAAAAAFgk/Ew_WH-fJCcA/s1600/P1030856.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kJUbFv-MgZA/UbFa6eRH0DI/AAAAAAAAFgk/Ew_WH-fJCcA/s320/P1030856.JPG" /></a><br />
Round Trip: 28 miles (with side trips)<br />
Difficulty: Difficult<br />
Elevation gain: 5070 feet<br />
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Well Diz's knee survived the trip but mine barely made it out in one piece... I've been having difficulty on steep downhill slopes that starts with an occasional dull pain that increasingly escalates to consistent teeth-gritting agony. After limping for the last 2 miles, Diz convinced me to see an orthopod to get it checked out so we know what the issue is. Otherwise I would consider the first backpacking trip of the season a great success! The weather held out perfectly and we made great time. This was also the farthest we've hiked in a single trip so we were pretty thrilled at the accomplishment.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O0CkK1lB5uM/UbFbHmqKrEI/AAAAAAAAFgs/GrXCmjJd7sA/s1600/P1030812.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O0CkK1lB5uM/UbFbHmqKrEI/AAAAAAAAFgs/GrXCmjJd7sA/s320/P1030812.JPG" /></a><br />
We started out Friday after work (and after Diz attempted to change his car battery which had died on him earlier that morning), with several hours of daylight left from the Herman Creek trail head, our hearts light and feet fleet despite our cumbersome packs. We decided to go only about 4 miles or so to the Casey Creek Campground, as we wanted to get used to the feel of the unaccustomed weight and we weren't certain how far the next campsite would be. Though the trail parallels my favorite hike in the gorge (Eagle Creek Trail), there are fewer sights to be seen along the first portion of the trek, most of it pretty woodland but no jaw-dropping vistas (at least initially). We did have to cross a few creeks prior to arriving at our campsite and there was a stunning waterfall cascading down the basalt cliffs almost directly onto the trail (Nick Eaton Falls). Upon arrival at our campsite, we were greeted by an exuberant Lab ("<i>I just met you and I love you</i>") whose happy tail nearly knocked over our camp stove as we were cooking dinner. Said Lab belonged to a friendly fellow hiker who was testing out his new lightweight gear and who graciously invited us to share his campfire, which we gratefully accepted. We spent a pleasant evening chatting and drinking wine by the crackling fire and watched as two larger groups of stragglers wandered into the site as the sun was setting and attempted to find a spot to make camp.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yzHf5hjS3-Q/UbFbOcQa_5I/AAAAAAAAFg0/rFSKISJgZFc/s1600/P1030825.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yzHf5hjS3-Q/UbFbOcQa_5I/AAAAAAAAFg0/rFSKISJgZFc/s320/P1030825.JPG" /></a><br />
The next morning, we were up with the sun and had everything packed and ready to go by 7:30. One of the great things about backpacking in the Pacific Northwest is that there are plenty of clean, fresh, cold water sources available from snow melt and springs. Don't get me wrong, you still have to sterilize the water to prevent giardiasis or other nasty bugs but I have never tasted anything so delicious as icy spring water on a long hike. We got our water from the stream and set out for a hard day of steady inclines. Wahtum Lake was about 8.5 miles away and we wanted to get there around lunchtime. Up and up we climbed, panting and cursing and sweating but overall pretty happy with ourselves. We forded several more precarious creeks and got our boots wet once or twice but otherwise suffered no real mishaps. At about mile 9.5 (total, not from the day) we passed the Mud Lake junction and shortly after we saw our first bit of snow on the trail. That bit of snow turned into a lot of snow and we had to consult the GPS once or twice to make sure we were headed in the right direction. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_HDdwoxVQs/UbFbbEbN6DI/AAAAAAAAFg8/-5kt7Hh4HTE/s1600/P1030851.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_HDdwoxVQs/UbFbbEbN6DI/AAAAAAAAFg8/-5kt7Hh4HTE/s320/P1030851.JPG" /></a><br />
We decided to take a spur trail along a ridge line that circles the lake (Anthill Trail) for the hell of it (and to do some geocaching along the way) and were happy with out decision. The snow had melted off the exposed ridge and we got a birds eye view of Wahtum Lake from our perch. I planted my first geocache up there and we had a quick snack as we admired the towering Mount Hood in the distance. We reached the lake by 2:00, set up camp and after a short breather decided that we wanted to slack-pack climb the nearby Chinidere Mountain. <br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--pSS5F6f_II/UbFbjfiaoDI/AAAAAAAAFhE/o08aDQK8ZvE/s1600/P1030897.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--pSS5F6f_II/UbFbjfiaoDI/AAAAAAAAFhE/o08aDQK8ZvE/s320/P1030897.JPG" /></a><br />
Chinidere was a quick steep switch backing climb to gorgeous panoramic views of Mount Hood, Adams, St. Helens and Jefferson (on a crystal clear day you can see Rainier as well). After admiring the views, we climbed back down, made dinner and called it an early night.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHfze4nMU4w/UbFbvgoni-I/AAAAAAAAFhM/St2YlF7c9hs/s1600/P1030912.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHfze4nMU4w/UbFbvgoni-I/AAAAAAAAFhM/St2YlF7c9hs/s320/P1030912.JPG" /></a><br />
The next morning, our muscles fatigued but not exhausted, we headed back up out of the basin and then relentlessly down, down, down back to almost sea level. We always make better time on our return trips, but after 8 miles of persistent stress on my knee, it started to throb. I limped my way across the finish line and we set out for Hood River to get a beer and a burger. I think I'm gonna take a break for the next few weeks with the backpacking but I have my sights set on Silver Star Mountain now that the weather has gotten nicer.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN-TT8tL4hc/UbFb3YM9CqI/AAAAAAAAFhU/CyWQQmfVenM/s1600/P1030917.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN-TT8tL4hc/UbFb3YM9CqI/AAAAAAAAFhU/CyWQQmfVenM/s320/P1030917.JPG" /></a><br />
Cheers!Sanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01527690261336267934noreply@blogger.com0