We went to our niece's first birthday party this weekend. She had a magical unicorn cake that her mother and grandmother tag-teamed. Mom made the cake and grandma decorated. It was both delicious and gorgeous! Lauren said she tried out a new recipe she'd seen on a Netflix cooking show called Momofuku cake. It has … Continue reading A Magical Cake
A Great Summer Sangria
We had a gathering of neighbors a few nights ago and I wanted a good summer drink to offer. I inherited a love of sangria from my mother. It's the perfect summer drink - light and fruity and sweet. Try this peach sangria with watermelon ice cubes for your next summer gathering! Peach Sangria with … Continue reading A Great Summer Sangria
Roasted Duck
We gave my friend Kate a few ducks in return for her help with harvesting them. She roasted one and shared the recipe, saying it turned out so "rich and good!" The recipe she followed is called Duck de Marietta, from the Omnivore's Cookbook. It calls for stuffing the duck with oranges and lemons then … Continue reading Roasted Duck
Sale on Small Duck Eggs
We are up to our ears in small duck eggs. The "babies" are laying now and they are very regular layers. We are at the stage, however, when their eggs are pretty small. When they reach full size we will begin supplying Jungle Jim's, but for now - our fridge is fast filling up! Typically … Continue reading Sale on Small Duck Eggs
Let Them Be Wild and Free
We had our usual Sunday dinner with the family. After dinner, little Bailey asked if we could go on the tire swing. Landen went and got his boots on, his sign that he's ready to go see the chickens. So off we went out into the yard. The tire swing is always a good time. … Continue reading Let Them Be Wild and Free
Harvesting Ducks
When I talk about harvesting birds some people cringe and change the subject. I understand. It's not a picture many like to have in their minds - it's not one I want to hold in mine! But harvest is a part of life when you're raising a lot of birds and trying to look out … Continue reading Harvesting Ducks
July’s Abundance
July is when I start to feel the shift from all input in the garden to a balance of input and output. It's not all weeding with no reward. I love the feeling of going out with my basket and coming back with good, fresh, tasty, often fragrant food. Let me show you some of … Continue reading July’s Abundance
The dog’s joyfulness
"Because of the dog's joyfulness, our own is increased. It is no small gift. It is not the least reason why we should honor as love the dog of our own life, and the dog down the street, and all the dogs not yet born." -Mary Oliver I felt the truth of this quote laying … Continue reading The dog’s joyfulness
Michigan Fruit Crumble
The first day here we stopped at the local fruit stand and got a nice selection of fruit. I had to make one of my fruit crumbles that have become a tradition on trips up here. To start, cut up whatever fruit you have. I used rhubarb (cut in 1-2" chunks), cherries (pitted and halved), … Continue reading Michigan Fruit Crumble
Lake life
We are blessed to have a family getaway up on Lake Manistee, between Grayling and Traverse City, Michigan. Lake life for us means relaxed days and lots of time spent together outside in the sunshine. Here's a glimpse into our first few days this trip. We've been doing a lot of swimming off the boat. … Continue reading Lake life
