Birth of a Blog

It's hard to believe I've been blogging here for a year. 

It's one of those things where

it seems like it's always been part of your life,

but at the same time, it feels so new.

I can't say I'm much closer to achieving my idea

of a family homestead, but I have learned

a few things along the way.

When I look back at my intentions

for this venue, it truly was

just a place for me to clarify my thoughts

about what I wanted for our future.

I love writing and am grateful to have this creative outlet.

It has since evolved into a haven.

Whenever I log on and head to Maple Hill,
I feel like I'm turning for home.

God has connected me with so many

wonderful people who share my love

of simplicity, nature and the belief that

you pass on the good stuff...

It's been a year of growth and centering. 
A year where I've learned

that what I know can help someone else

do something in a different way or

find a new perspective in their life.

And I have been touched by so many

generous souls who feel the same need

to share what they know and

keep the good stuff moving...

Gratitude and many blessings

are sent your way today.

Thank you for being part of

my journey to becoming

all that God wants me to be.

Here's to the next year of learning,
sharing and growing...

Bloomin' Tuesday

Happy Independence Day!

We are grateful to those 

who have kept our country free!

Have a safe and memorable Fourth of July!

Mini Meatloaves

Here's a recipe from our Family Recipe book

that the boys enjoy.

The smaller size appeals to kids,

and grown-ups can use any leftovers to make meatloaf subs.

This recipe was adapted from a Sun Sentinel food article.

The original required an egg, which Lil' Guy can't have

due to allergies and 1 1/2 C shredded zucchini,

which he probably would like to be allergic to.  ;0)

Mini-Meatloaves

1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey

1/2 ground rice chips (or breadcrumbs)

1/2 t salt

1 t Italian herbs

1/2 onion, grated

1/4 C homemade gravy or ketchup

In large bowl, combine all ingredients

except ketchup (or gravy), mixing lightly.

Place about 1/3 C meat mixture into muffin cups,

pressing lightly. 

Spread gravy (tomato sauce) or ketchup on each.

Bake at 400 degrees 20 minutes.

Makes 8 mini loaves.

Enjoy!

***This is another recipe which can be made

in a toaster oven.  Especially in the summer, I try to use the range as little as possible, so I adapt many of our recipes

to accomodate this desire.***

Free Soil Test Kit

I had read a couple of weeks ago on

Florida Yards & Neighborhoods

about a free soil test kit available from the local

South Florida Water Management District.

So, I sent for one.

Here's what came in the mail last week.

This is one of the basic steps

a budding gardener is supposed to do.

I don't know why we've never done it before,

but here's opportunity come-a-knockin'.

The instructions are clear and simple.

A list of local resources is listed,

should questions arise.

The information sheet came already highlighted,

so we know just what needs filling out.

You may note that although the kit is free,

each sample must be paid for.

Still, it's a reasonable amount

for the valuable information received.

Specifically how to take a sample is explained,

for the most accurate results.

The bag of samples can be...

 

mailed in to the provided address.

Maybe a university near you offers the same service.

Curious to know what they'll find...