tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52719581323566436952024-02-18T23:36:26.410-05:00ShellInspired LivingRebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.comBlogger321125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-52092044356626297632011-11-29T15:36:00.002-05:002011-11-29T15:46:56.714-05:00Roasted Haricots Verts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwy-xGlFW-51Y1QF1vLsToNXh1qYdGhnSWt8STol6apfyY5VVNT3pIeGfipHA3TxUbZulXaiS4IFfjDD0e-dpyZ0MZIZJb7rQgOsX7j6zGU4xZxTbS0s0sPUH4b1fV7CtnPK8aELIULDk/s1600/roasted+haricots+verts.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwy-xGlFW-51Y1QF1vLsToNXh1qYdGhnSWt8STol6apfyY5VVNT3pIeGfipHA3TxUbZulXaiS4IFfjDD0e-dpyZ0MZIZJb7rQgOsX7j6zGU4xZxTbS0s0sPUH4b1fV7CtnPK8aELIULDk/s400/roasted+haricots+verts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680520904074713874" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Do you ever just get really, really, <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> sick of veggies? I’ll be honest: I do. Consequently, I’m always trying to prepare them in new and different ways. One of my favorite tricks to reinvent a tired old standard is roasting. Sunday night I whipped up these French green beans to serve alongside pasta. I was floored at how scrumptious they were. S actually described them as “desserty”! G and Q? Wouldn’t touch them. <span style="font-style: italic;">C’est la vie.</span></span></div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">Roasted Haricots Verts</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">1 lb haricots verts</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">1 tablespoon sunflower oil</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">½ teaspoon onion powder</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper to taste</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">½ tablespoon butter</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">2 teaspoons nutritional yeast</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">1 tablespoon ground flax seeds</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in; font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="">1.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span>1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in; font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="">2.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span>2. Clean haricots verts, removing ends. Dry thoroughly and place in a roasting pan.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in; font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="">3.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span>3. Drizzle beans with the sunflower oil, then sprinkle with the salt, pepper, and onion powder. Toss to coat.<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in; font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="">4.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span>4. Roast for approximately 15 minutes or until slightly golden (and a little wrinkled!) and fork tender.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in; font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"><span style=""><span style="">5.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span>5. Remove the beans from the oven and toss with the butter, nutritional yeast and flax seeds.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic; text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Enjoy!<br /></p>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-41953289412351317482011-11-16T15:36:00.004-05:002011-11-16T16:18:32.938-05:00Rockie Road Brownies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAe1DigYX8wnyab5brGrWAYWJ5q0Tq8geq4GG0Ktc3BL4A5t5T4tLSL7vl7lVPHxCBXcRz7fcTom1R0QntuI6_zuZMqs0Ukog3-BKttKO1ys2x5CETNAZObZbj7t4riHzA3jXkgP-7KU/s1600/rocky+road.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAe1DigYX8wnyab5brGrWAYWJ5q0Tq8geq4GG0Ktc3BL4A5t5T4tLSL7vl7lVPHxCBXcRz7fcTom1R0QntuI6_zuZMqs0Ukog3-BKttKO1ys2x5CETNAZObZbj7t4riHzA3jXkgP-7KU/s400/rocky+road.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675695950089475858" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">While I claim to be a super-healthy eater, the fact is I've got a serious sweet tooth. I eat something desserty every day. But these brownies? They are not an everyday dessert. They are so rich, so ridiculously decadent, that they are a once-every-couple-of-years dessert. Or, as was the case this past Saturday, a "I'm hormonal and hated today" dessert. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Rockie Road Brownies</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Serves 12 </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1/2 c. butter</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">3 oz. unsweetened chocolate</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1 c. flour</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">3/4 t. baking powder</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1/2 t. salt</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">3 eggs</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1 1/2 c. sugar</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1 1/2 t. vanilla</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Topping:</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1/2 c. chopped peanuts</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1/2 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1/2/ c. mini marshmallows</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9" square pan.</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">2. In a sauce pan, melt butter and chocolate over low heat. Set aside to cool.</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">3. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">4. Beat eggs until light; add sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating until mixture is thick. Add vanilla.</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">5. Gradually add chocolate mixture to eggs, then stir in dry ingredients.</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">6. Spread mixture evenly in the buttered pan, and bake for 25 - 30 minutes or until the edges pull away from the side of the pan.</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">7. Remove the brownies from the oven and sprinkle peanuts, chocolate chips, and marshmallows over the top. Bake 8 - 10 minutes more until marshmallows are lightly browned (if you like your marshmallows on the darker side, try turning on the broiler for the last minute or so).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Enjoy!</span><br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-78143526456902390172011-09-27T19:37:00.006-04:002011-11-16T16:18:38.790-05:00CSA Supper: Zucchini & Tomato Pie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfUGda2XJzUOPGP30XPjh16TPPfz7K3aS54zQqgw-qU_CwZYr2ruIULUPqAmf0NCGVutNaQEBCSPV0bR4PAROhjeqT2cnD8XzeX5xZzyRc9pySlXcZy4qbYBwkrrl1sHvymo2pDf80liE/s1600/zuc+tom+pie.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfUGda2XJzUOPGP30XPjh16TPPfz7K3aS54zQqgw-qU_CwZYr2ruIULUPqAmf0NCGVutNaQEBCSPV0bR4PAROhjeqT2cnD8XzeX5xZzyRc9pySlXcZy4qbYBwkrrl1sHvymo2pDf80liE/s400/zuc+tom+pie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657188229097708050" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">For the last month our kitchen has been overrun with tomatoes and zucchini. I've frozen I don't know how many loaves of zucchini bread, and we've canned at least three dozen jars of tomatoes, pasta sauce, etc. But those darned zucchinis and tomatoes just keep coming via our weekly farm share and our own garden. In the spirit of 'waste not, want not', I'm trying my best to use them up...but my enthusiasm and creativity are waning.<br /><br />This zucchini and tomato pie is always my end-of-summer savior. It's dead easy (as Jamie O. would say) and super-fast to throw together. Plus, it always yields leftovers. I even baked this one over the weekend, then just reheated it (which was extra nice since I've been waist-deep in baby food and laundry for the last three days...<span style="font-style: italic;">CANNOT</span> get caught up on either). Throw in a simple salad and frosty beer, and my day just got a <span style="font-style: italic;">whole</span> lot better.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-dF_2g0CS2PQARhCq6tFHqcQNBNp4igLhonsaY5S7qEIKT4MRWA-UCxIOlQM-DjaPoyRAs5wy34XwCoHa6VWWg4dh3mOVyG8zE8SlS1EMBIKpsOyRWaLfxEnjA5X5DyizZHKLpAMO24/s1600/zuc+tom+pie+close+up.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-dF_2g0CS2PQARhCq6tFHqcQNBNp4igLhonsaY5S7qEIKT4MRWA-UCxIOlQM-DjaPoyRAs5wy34XwCoHa6VWWg4dh3mOVyG8zE8SlS1EMBIKpsOyRWaLfxEnjA5X5DyizZHKLpAMO24/s400/zuc+tom+pie+close+up.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657188096554483058" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Zucchini and Tomato Pie</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Serves 6</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">2 cups zucchini, diced</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1 cup tomato, diced</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1 medium onion, diced</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1 1/2 cups milk</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">3/4 organic baking mix (or Bisquick)</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">3 eggs</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1/4 teaspoon pepper</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1/3 cup Parmesan </span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1/2 cup shredded mozzarella</span><br /><br /><ol style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"><li>Preheat oven to 400 degrees; grease a 10" pie plate.</li><li>Spread diced zucchini, tomato, and onion in the bottom of the pie plate.<br /></li><li>Beat remaining ingredients until smooth, then pour into pie plate.</li><li>Bake until knife comes out clean (about 30 minutes), then remove from oven and top pie with the two cheeses.<br /></li><li>Turn on the broiler; place pie under the broiler until cheese is melted and golden brown.</li><li>Cool 5 minutes before serving.</li></ol><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">(Recipe adapted from an ancient Bisquick recipe book that my mom probably pulled out of the <span style="font-style: italic;">Good Housekeeping</span> back in the '80s. If you can get your hands on one, it's a treasure trove of deliciousness!)</span></span><br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-48959866668249988702011-09-26T14:39:00.006-04:002011-09-26T15:03:31.218-04:00Reading List<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmFRrkPqTs0xu4Bh_86fAWsUv_pbV-rdhvBgGAm54S6YTpjoHwrbGUoID365WA-RBSSMqb94lgqJdYT-a5axgvtgS4b6XAZEFBjgTH7Ak0faE0bT7ZXMnGgqLPguOa4GrKkmmiGto6d8/s1600/sept+26+reading+list.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmFRrkPqTs0xu4Bh_86fAWsUv_pbV-rdhvBgGAm54S6YTpjoHwrbGUoID365WA-RBSSMqb94lgqJdYT-a5axgvtgS4b6XAZEFBjgTH7Ak0faE0bT7ZXMnGgqLPguOa4GrKkmmiGto6d8/s400/sept+26+reading+list.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656740328457928834" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I haven't really read at all for the last six weeks. Now that I'm "working" (ha!ha!) again, the little bit of free time I previously had to read is now spent on <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb">Stella & Dot</a> stuff. But when I'm not reading I get cranky. I feel like it's so important to continue to make time for the things that are really, really important to me--that really define who I am (cooking, reading)--despite how crazy it gets around here so that I don't lose myself. So my goal is to finish this stack of books by then end of October:</span><br /><br /></div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">On my Kindle...I must finish <span style="font-style: italic;">Misguided Angel</span>, the fifth installment of the Blue Bloods series by Melissa de la Cruz, because the sixth, and final book, comes out <span style="font-style: italic;">TOMORROW</span>! If you haven't read this series, but dig the vampire/YA genre like I do, I highly recommend it. It's really the smartest, most well-written of the bunch (more on that to come).<br /></li><li style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Hardy Boys #1...I'm in the mood for a serial mystery, and I've read all my <span style="font-style: italic;">Nancy Drews</span>. Now that I'm collecting HB for G/Q, I figure I may as check them out.</li><li style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Poe Shadow</span>, by Matthew Pearl...set around the suspicious demise of Edgar Allen Poe, this book seems like a perfect Halloween-y read.</li><li><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Birth Matters</span>, by Ina May Gaskin...no, I'm not pregnant again--just chronically interested in the subject. My neighbor lent me this book last week after a convo about her upcoming book of poetry segued into me telling her about my birth experience (it made sense at the time, trust me). I know this book will only fuel the murderous fire of rage I already feel about the maternity system in this country, but <span style="font-style: italic;">c'est la vie</span>.</span></li></ul><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">What's on your nightstand?</span>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-16863012306611342902011-09-23T11:33:00.010-04:002011-09-26T15:03:45.008-04:00Pumpkins Pretties<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbgTAWC9iSTHQm2pp923kN-M9rPgS6FgOB39RHlFeU1QTBkR7I7Z6GwlPNsRXFlEUobCv_4Df_5xOnJkZsMvOlN40ecXEgy83x_AvrcEGknQidelYPl_pflmyNvzoSPr89lYacmBgoeE/s1600/striped+pumpkin.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbgTAWC9iSTHQm2pp923kN-M9rPgS6FgOB39RHlFeU1QTBkR7I7Z6GwlPNsRXFlEUobCv_4Df_5xOnJkZsMvOlN40ecXEgy83x_AvrcEGknQidelYPl_pflmyNvzoSPr89lYacmBgoeE/s400/striped+pumpkin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655579270893075826" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The lads and I went to pick out some pumpkins yesterday, so I thought<br />I'd share a few snaps of the gorgeous options we had to chose from... </span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFE1UlSy8OCIy5eC6L80bL-TJnZ1oA2JpwG5ZqIejlx4pe8u93aRRU_IrDvYWqtpwfmr9cAfNgFIRCrWyjL8JQFXtlJkvVwydxYNjAlSLmbgmMBustVmFyLwQWWPaYzYSoIirQbP9n7Qo/s1600/pumpkin+piles.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFE1UlSy8OCIy5eC6L80bL-TJnZ1oA2JpwG5ZqIejlx4pe8u93aRRU_IrDvYWqtpwfmr9cAfNgFIRCrWyjL8JQFXtlJkvVwydxYNjAlSLmbgmMBustVmFyLwQWWPaYzYSoIirQbP9n7Qo/s400/pumpkin+piles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655579172125515698" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I took me about an hour to decide which ones to bring home.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbF3Wv9nC5oweVl1vq1tWKOzPtVsqHJgcXHRnAUdJl5raPC55OnRKWvR1weUf0uOpEzGxwldjGwUPhRsZ99Gkr4sZhCPG-TukFgqD5luXL_SJEP7NhIvmE4N9SfLWMR6eZVdlC8DALpg/s1600/pumpkin+miscreants.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbF3Wv9nC5oweVl1vq1tWKOzPtVsqHJgcXHRnAUdJl5raPC55OnRKWvR1weUf0uOpEzGxwldjGwUPhRsZ99Gkr4sZhCPG-TukFgqD5luXL_SJEP7NhIvmE4N9SfLWMR6eZVdlC8DALpg/s400/pumpkin+miscreants.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655579091663716578" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The funkier they looked, the more I like them!</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdmos3Hi1kSoWKNPajP_G02yIfFhoo-PGCZZ8GibI6_G14qlEV9xKvHrZR6LY4UXotgU-jH8MQ2X3ZtCOp8KIn_MYYDmUDzKoaE6xgBlBxVl0yznQjFIw-RMjo0lanAIfqM2MC00Ifoo/s1600/pie+pumpkins.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdmos3Hi1kSoWKNPajP_G02yIfFhoo-PGCZZ8GibI6_G14qlEV9xKvHrZR6LY4UXotgU-jH8MQ2X3ZtCOp8KIn_MYYDmUDzKoaE6xgBlBxVl0yznQjFIw-RMjo0lanAIfqM2MC00Ifoo/s400/pie+pumpkins.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655579013671478914" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This might be the fall I get brave enough to make a <span style="font-style: italic;">real</span> pumpkin pie.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSwT7m310p65A8iD1vKSHDDZocAzVnmNn-9BARnMdHtbDqTOklvy8lbP4aToEOoiCq5V_L2WwhwNYAtk0BxrfntZKP0Sl_5BO5BKX0m3g9NQlM1WAaG5RU1o5Gj6Kdkt5Id54wK2yBis/s1600/giant+white+pumpkins.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSwT7m310p65A8iD1vKSHDDZocAzVnmNn-9BARnMdHtbDqTOklvy8lbP4aToEOoiCq5V_L2WwhwNYAtk0BxrfntZKP0Sl_5BO5BKX0m3g9NQlM1WAaG5RU1o5Gj6Kdkt5Id54wK2yBis/s400/giant+white+pumpkins.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655578932942765378" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I loved these giant white pumpkins, but they were $50 each. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Wwwwwhhhhhaaaaaa???</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjOzUm3LzLNanC9Z5FKQPDli7k0jxPEjct8vKGu73boyd3VF7G8DnvB5iwiWgo4IiXidVxjl67gKQbtVMqnaCGH87E8NvJ7LmfQu8WuTC5ygzO0YSGiD5X1Z-Y2btCiHGibfZx_WEtLE/s1600/close+up+pumpkins.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjOzUm3LzLNanC9Z5FKQPDli7k0jxPEjct8vKGu73boyd3VF7G8DnvB5iwiWgo4IiXidVxjl67gKQbtVMqnaCGH87E8NvJ7LmfQu8WuTC5ygzO0YSGiD5X1Z-Y2btCiHGibfZx_WEtLE/s400/close+up+pumpkins.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655578865014644514" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Zits on your face = awful. Zits on pumpkins = awesome.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDGKoFq4BAOv1UYXUi_gozrjg1Zb-LDJVIR7roSdNNyxpY8l726L5ZQf09vmO4MI1L7K_vESpbjmxtxraugTDZjsMkuw6A9AGmU1X9gaQPEup-h_1mDdVPssk98AnGa4r7NxdV2t_lQw/s1600/gq+pumpkins.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDGKoFq4BAOv1UYXUi_gozrjg1Zb-LDJVIR7roSdNNyxpY8l726L5ZQf09vmO4MI1L7K_vESpbjmxtxraugTDZjsMkuw6A9AGmU1X9gaQPEup-h_1mDdVPssk98AnGa4r7NxdV2t_lQw/s400/gq+pumpkins.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655578808639510994" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Pumpkin preciousness!</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-57502894137465031842011-09-21T15:28:00.006-04:002011-09-21T16:17:56.598-04:00Operation Retro Rec Room: Storage<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We’re planning to roughly finish off part of our basement this fall to make a playroom for G/Q. Of course—me being me—I’m having visions of midcentury rec room awesomeness. Here’s my inspiration room:<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxcBNvIYTBn5xnYR3UOLkQqK6x5wFq632vv5m7JkOuio-E6CZYFMdFhyP3oVKaA7J3Yu_i8rnpZ2daF4mbFKW8ZspdNFMhK30yDVLrjOX_oZpuHg75VruPQPJslVwMF08T7h3wpMu2CBc/s1600/rec+room.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxcBNvIYTBn5xnYR3UOLkQqK6x5wFq632vv5m7JkOuio-E6CZYFMdFhyP3oVKaA7J3Yu_i8rnpZ2daF4mbFKW8ZspdNFMhK30yDVLrjOX_oZpuHg75VruPQPJslVwMF08T7h3wpMu2CBc/s400/rec+room.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654897365505440722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Sorry for the crappy screenshot, but the owner of this Flicker set has turned off the download feature (booooo!). You can see the room better </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/popkulture/5460365890/in/faves-shellblogshop/lightbox/">here</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">. Brick red + olive + touches of yellow? </span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Swoon</span>.</span></div><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">We want to keep lots of open space for romping, but also make it functional with lots of storage and room for us to hang out, too. As usual, our budget is pretty minimal for this project (S—do we even have a budget?). I’ve been dreaming of having it tricked out with some Ikea Expedit storage units, but I know by the time we order them/drive to Philly or NJ to pick one up (sadly, we have no Ikea in Upstate NY), it wouldn’t financially make sense. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Then, lo and behold, on a random trip to see what was left at our Kmart (it’s closing), I find this fixture on sale for $80!</p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6bG73dPYCtkFU09Tox4wJkuLeE0xEVDx3j-_HKAGGIYjJS7IQbAaWuNRdM-DqgURLivitd5wsG6funtUv6dH6nSmDw5L3xZ1iQTgHt3YB4-ApvOjiZ3Va28dWB8R0dw6nJ2xnC41IGg/s1600/storage+for+rec+room.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" 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mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I like the light woodgrain finish on the outside, but will probably paint the inside with a pop of color, then finish it off with some baskets/bins for toy storage.</p><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Have you bought store fixtures before? We had great luck buying some shelving/slat wall for our garage when our Steve and Barry’s closed a few years back.<br /></p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Stay tuned for more updates on Operation Retro Rec Room!</span>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-74087681413202156102011-09-20T10:16:00.003-04:002011-09-20T11:21:56.264-04:00Whiskey and Sage Cream Sauce<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2q0M_5qDWA9_-C7Gss5Zm_YPtIGw4JAKSKK9hn7r5YROYgR-yZ6oxRNLmRZVFnO_PfK429UluaR9TQL8QgzHZ3ZKQGkAhyphenhyphenTV0g3I1sj2-1HeMLjfSV8a6Nf6n8wvUr284T7FgynVdRA/s1600/ravioli.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" 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mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Usually this time of year we head to our favorite restaurant, <a href="http://www.hazelnutkitchen.com/">Hazelnut Kitchen</a>, for their sublime butternut squash ravioli…but, you know, the kiddos make it a wee bit harder to just pop out to dinner. My taste buds, however, don’t understand that. They sense fall in the air, and they want creamy/buttery/squashy/sagey. And they want it <span style="font-style: italic;">RIGHT NOW</span>. So that leaves me with one choice: Make the ravioli at home.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">But here’s the problem…dough terrifies me. I’ve failed miserably at all previous dough-making attempts. I know every fall magazine/cooking show for the last several years has had a piece on how e-a-s-y it is to make your own squash ravioli, but the thought strikes mortal fear into my heart. And using wonton wrappers? Something about that just seems <span style="font-style: italic;">not right</span>.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">So what’s a squash-craving, dough-fearing girl like me to do? Buy frozen butternut squash ravioli and dress it up with an amazing sauce, that’s what. Thank you, Rosetti ravioli for saving me from another dough-FAIL-induced meltdown.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">Whiskey and Sage Cream Sauce</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons of butter</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">1 medium onion, finely diced</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">½ teaspoon dried sage (I wanted to use fresh, but I forgot it and no way was I running back to Wegmans on a Sunday afternoon!)</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">¼ teaspoon garlic powder</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">1 cup organic half-and-half</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">1 teaspoon whiskey (I used Maker’s Mark)</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper to taste</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons toasted, chopped pecans</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><ol style="margin-top: 0in; text-align: justify;" start="1" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal">Melt butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add diced onions, a pinch of s&p, then cover to let onions sweat about 3 minutes. Uncover, reduce heat to medium-low and sautee until onions are lightly caramelized (about 10 minutes).</li><li class="MsoNormal">While onions are caramelizing, add pecans to a skillet over low heat. Toast the nuts until they are browned and fragrant (about 5 minutes…watch them because they will go from perfect to burned very quickly).</li><li class="MsoNormal">Add sage and garlic powder to caramelized onions. Let cook about 2 minutes until spices are incorporated into onion mixture.</li><li class="MsoNormal">Stir in the whisky and half-and-half. Add another pinch of s&p. Bring to a slow simmer, then let cook about 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened and coats the back of a spoon.</li><li class="MsoNormal">Add the cooked ravioli to the sauce and toss.</li><li class="MsoNormal">Sprinkle ravioli with toasted pecans (and some parmesan shavings if you’re so inclined…we didn’t think it was needed) to serve.</li></ol>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-16443050886249720442011-09-13T14:55:00.018-04:002011-09-21T10:47:55.244-04:00Finger Foods<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJ3i1NApq1aCnIj7Ybrehe8TRHn-r-qh_Yim8lS-7ZiGYFNt00pQ8T8MTIhPlShNOxPs3SpaH_kmj6AT6R_VkqwQTKBK-3T0EC5cVt6-lzmys9W1G2Hn2TqSGAobUlmSsV1IsykzmmHI/s1600/finger+foods.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJ3i1NApq1aCnIj7Ybrehe8TRHn-r-qh_Yim8lS-7ZiGYFNt00pQ8T8MTIhPlShNOxPs3SpaH_kmj6AT6R_VkqwQTKBK-3T0EC5cVt6-lzmys9W1G2Hn2TqSGAobUlmSsV1IsykzmmHI/s400/finger+foods.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651920139245508946" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">For the last month or so, the lads are wanting to feed themselves more and more, which is so sweet, but it makes it harder to ensure they are getting balanced, full meals. I liked the consistency of seeing an empty bowl at the end of every mealtime versus a semi-empty tray that gives no indication whether the food went into their tummies or Zelda's.<br /><br />I've been trying to think out of the box about fingers foods, so I thought I'd share some of our current favorites (FYI...we're still having <a href="http://shellblogshop.blogspot.com/2011/09/super-porridge.html">super porridge</a> for breakfast and a yogurt-based lunch, so these items are used as add-ons, snacks, or sometimes even dinner):<br /><ul><li>Pieces of Applegate Farms yogurt cheese slices or Wegman's/Applegate Farms organic chicken and turkey</li><li>Roasted broccoli (1 bag frozen organic broccoli florets, tossed with 1 T. sunflower oil and pinch of sea salt and pepper, roasted at 425 degrees for approximately 20 minutes or until really fork-tender)</li><li><a href="http://shellblogshop.blogspot.com/2011/08/ricotta-spelt-pancakes.html">Ricotta spelt pancakes</a> and pumpkin spelt waffles<br /></li><li>Dollops of <a href="http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/RCP00252/White-Bean-Spread.html">Dr. Weil's white bean spread</a> (I halve the amount of salt and use dried basil instead of pesto)</li><li>Raisins or diced dried apricots</li><li>Toasted Ezekiel bread with a light schmear of almond butter<br /></li><li>Carrot cream cheese sandwiches (Shred 3 medium carrots, then blend with one 8 oz package of organic cream cheese, 1/2 cup chopped golden raisins, and 2 T. sprouted sunflower seeds)</li><li>Diced tomato, peaches, plum, kiwi, sweet potato, or sliced grapes or berries</li><li>Hard-boiled egg (chopped)<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.goraw.com/products/Live_Pumpkin_Bar">GoRaw Live Pumpkin bar</a> (finely chopped)<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.pulmuonewildwood.com/burger.asp">Wild Wood SpouTofu veggie burger</a></li><li>And, of course, lots and lots Happy Baby puffs, munchies and MumMums (when in doubt, they are always a hit, right?)<br /></li></ul></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-67997245070116506792011-09-01T09:58:00.026-04:002011-09-01T20:15:23.563-04:00Super Porridge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2M-X84Lum0O74R8klvFIgiI_rUjBBBtfOC_wlGQKgUPdshDRyUrzstQXgxo7RWOk-wmZVCH8iJCy-UaWAFcPY2wTqD1MZdoEFchw0oruvhzfbd4t3xzDN8xWqWbR75DOt1Ydo-jNkM0/s1600/super+porridge.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2M-X84Lum0O74R8klvFIgiI_rUjBBBtfOC_wlGQKgUPdshDRyUrzstQXgxo7RWOk-wmZVCH8iJCy-UaWAFcPY2wTqD1MZdoEFchw0oruvhzfbd4t3xzDN8xWqWbR75DOt1Ydo-jNkM0/s400/super+porridge.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647390614423022034" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Starting solids was one part of parenting that I was the most excited/nervous about. Food is such a central part of our lives that I wanted give the boys an introduction that would make them love mealtimes as much as S and I do. Plus I had all this guilt about my low milk supply/milk drying up at 5 months/blah, blah, blah that I wanted to start G and Q off with as diverse a diet as possible to help make up for the nutrition (I felt) they weren't getting from me.
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<br />Enter <a href="http://www.superbabyfood.com"><span style="font-style: italic;">Super Baby Food</span></a>. My bff M recommended I check it out, and since her word is always gospel for me, I immediately ran out to buy it. The concept behind the book is feeding your baby whole, natural, homemade foods from the start to help maximize their nutritional intake and use food to build a robust immune system. The basis of the diet is a whole grain cereal, dubbed 'super porridge'. (By the way, I love the phrase 'super porridge'. It takes something so mundane--hot cereal--and elevates it. It's not just 'oatmeal' or 'Cream of Wheat' any longer; it's <span style="font-style: italic;">SUPER PORRIDGE</span>. Who doesn't want to eat something that sounds like the breakfast of a superhero?)
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOah4RsrVOVVpDJTDL1_fzpoydHpqsKuMNidsy4R2WDbA1NSX3mEyN6r5UA2bczL1T13UCFHHxadJliKjCYii3XsDhnFAZIqVtf_v94rT8hPSyoKLReEbNQOtZ4c6Nv0quD18spvXn2aA/s1600/grains.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOah4RsrVOVVpDJTDL1_fzpoydHpqsKuMNidsy4R2WDbA1NSX3mEyN6r5UA2bczL1T13UCFHHxadJliKjCYii3XsDhnFAZIqVtf_v94rT8hPSyoKLReEbNQOtZ4c6Nv0quD18spvXn2aA/s400/grains.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647390504332372626" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">But I'll admit it: I was a bit apprehensive about embarking on milling and mixing my own grains. I kept putting it off, opting instead to feed the boys a mix of Earth's Best rice and Happy Baby oatmeal cereals until they were 7 months old. And then one day I intrepidly entered the bulk foods at Wegmans and starting scooping organic grains and seeds into bags.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-oWUw9knqwe93OEmyO4KwU2js702fGd8kazV0EJdE7ie26EZ5rnf1qIdhQ9Wyi7cyVKYQsv9ZQGeSNlU6fUR2TCNZF7d68eyTtlzv_i_oB1pi9M-a63K7xV2760MO8SytY75qAV-yjI/s1600/ground+grains.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-oWUw9knqwe93OEmyO4KwU2js702fGd8kazV0EJdE7ie26EZ5rnf1qIdhQ9Wyi7cyVKYQsv9ZQGeSNlU6fUR2TCNZF7d68eyTtlzv_i_oB1pi9M-a63K7xV2760MO8SytY75qAV-yjI/s400/ground+grains.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647390417771910722" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I brought them home convinced that my pathetic little blender would never be able to grind them up; but to my amazement, it whizzed them up with aplomb. "Take that!" the blender seemed to growl as it dug into the steel cut oats.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJpXIaVzXwkBukq5GF0P1Xszs7YWRmDsvSy17c_LUglpL-TYjGP1Ws8mwti23waxmU-Fx9TkZgRgX4Qa2_-ITxJJWyQP4SiBvzgf23lYcFeujumbNGdrNBPksU4-GUxYGioYMGJ5YKXE/s1600/super+porridge+in+jar.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJpXIaVzXwkBukq5GF0P1Xszs7YWRmDsvSy17c_LUglpL-TYjGP1Ws8mwti23waxmU-Fx9TkZgRgX4Qa2_-ITxJJWyQP4SiBvzgf23lYcFeujumbNGdrNBPksU4-GUxYGioYMGJ5YKXE/s400/super+porridge+in+jar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647390324684532706" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Less then 10 minutes later, I had a 1/2 gallon jar full of gorgeous, nutritious baby cereal. But the question remained: would G and Q actually eat it...?
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<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The next morning I nervously cooked up my first batch, mixing in some nutritional yeast and a little pureed sweet potato as the book suggested. I apprehensively sat before G (he always eats first...no reason why) and very warily approached his lips with the porridge. He opened his sweet little mouth, closed his lips around the spoon, and his eyes widened. "MMMMMmmmmmmm! MMMMMMMMMMMMmmmmmmmmmm!!!" He liked it! He really liked it! And Q liked it, too!
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<br />In fact, S and I even liked it. We're now a family of super porridge devotees. The boys eat it (almost) every morning, while S and I have it a few days a week. It's incredibly versatile, filling, and easy. I love that I can cook a big batch and just reheat individual portions*, which means each family member can customize their cereal with the toppings they like best. Probably the most super thing about it? It's ridiculously cheap. I fill that enormous 1/2 gallon jar for approximately the same cost as one 7 oz. can of Happy Baby cereal (I've included some cost information below based on what I pay for organic bulk grains at Wegmans), and it lasts almost twice as long as store-bought cereal.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">G/Q's Favorite Super Porridge</span>**
<br />1/2 lb ground steel cut oats, $1.00
<br />1/2 lb pearled barley, $1.25
<br />1/2 lb mulled millet, $1.21
<br />1/3 lb oat bran, $.66
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Total: $4.12</span>
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Also:</span>
<br />1/2 lb nutritional yeast, $3.03
<br />1/4 lb pumpkin seeds, $1.20
<br />1/4 lb flax seeds, $.57
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions:</span>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Using a blender, grind each grain separately using the 'Grind' or 'Mill' setting. For babies just beginning cereal, grind grain(s) until they are a soft, powdery texture; for more advanced babies, grind just until grains reach a coarse, sandy texture (as seen in the photo above).
<br />2. After each grain is ground, pour into a mixing bowl. Once all grains have been added, add the oat bran and stir until well mixed. Pour the mixture into an air-tight container (preferably glass) and store in a cool, dark location since bugs love organic grains (I keep mine in the fridge).
<br />3. Bring 1 cup of water to boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in 1/3 cup of porridge mixture. Reduce heat to medium low, stirring often and cooking porridge for 10 minutes.*** <span style="font-style: italic;"></span>
<br />4. For beginning eaters, serve cereal plain or with one food serving and a 1/4 teaspoon of nutritional yeast. For advanced eaters, combine one fruit serving and one vegetable serving along with a 1/2 teaspoon of nutritional yeast and some ground seeds. Every other day, serve super porridge with a hard-boiled egg yolk.
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<br />*<span style="font-style: italic;">I reheat the porridge in the microwave for about 45 seconds.</span>
<br />**<span style="font-style: italic;">Once you have the grinding/cooking technique down, it's really easy to vary your porridge. For example, I've also made one with brown rice, lentils and quinoa. For beginning eaters, you'll want to stick with just one grain, most likely brown rice or oatmeal.</span>
<br />*<span style="font-style: italic;">**This was the quantity I made when the boys were 7 months old and were eating a tablespoon or two of cereal per morning. This batch lasted 3 or 4 days in the fridge.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">I now double this amount, since they each eat 1/4 cup per morning and it still lasts 3 or 4 days.</span></div></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-4641488481104100642011-08-25T10:16:00.010-04:002011-08-25T11:40:06.955-04:00What's Old is New Again<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbv8hU7cmw54OO5nOannrwl9UUMdJoqRy66D1O1ee2HchBIplQoOUtWg-BfUsrMdiCCraiK3B5mXmmbuWml-ZMjWbVz-aUTbp-Z_4fIx94D5QgE7UCwE_XBTlgrntNmPe89Ix25BWrSc/s1600/full+outfit+aug+19.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbv8hU7cmw54OO5nOannrwl9UUMdJoqRy66D1O1ee2HchBIplQoOUtWg-BfUsrMdiCCraiK3B5mXmmbuWml-ZMjWbVz-aUTbp-Z_4fIx94D5QgE7UCwE_XBTlgrntNmPe89Ix25BWrSc/s400/full+outfit+aug+19.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644798501444928050" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I love the transformative power of accessories. The way a statement-making necklace can take wardrobe staples and dress them up (or down). The way a belt can change the shape of a jacket or dress, giving those items new life (and the illusion that you have the tiniest of waists (not possible anymore post-twins, believe me)). Accessories are, to me, miraculous. And even though I now go days at a time and don't even leave my house, I'm still amazed at how much better--more confident, more happy, more <span style="font-style: italic;">ME</span>--I feel on the days I take the time to throw on a pair of earrings or <a href="http://shellblogshop.blogspot.com/2011/08/arm-party.html">a stack of bracelets</a>. (That's right, I'm saying I'm a better mother when I accessorize.)
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<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-9eJl6jZDTkc8VT1wAubnotjrTJDOmU8sndHsZHB8sAZ2gKajwvnYeFBJSu2PJr7to1c7JID7BC0rEgD3t4p8upvNe7mKedgO9K3b_nuOMXIM7pzcXRjpXyPpZDu0n3LBCdyoVhaNQQ/s1600/belt+closeup.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-9eJl6jZDTkc8VT1wAubnotjrTJDOmU8sndHsZHB8sAZ2gKajwvnYeFBJSu2PJr7to1c7JID7BC0rEgD3t4p8upvNe7mKedgO9K3b_nuOMXIM7pzcXRjpXyPpZDu0n3LBCdyoVhaNQQ/s400/belt+closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644798429899439586" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Take this outfit I wore last Friday to a lunch date with a friend. Each of the pieces of clothing are so basic. I've also owned them forever (<a href="http://shellblogshop.blogspot.com/2009/09/orthopedic-chic.html">the shoes</a> are the newest, but were purchased two years ago). But by layering on some of the pieces from the <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/rebekahcb">Stella & Dot Fall 2011 collection</a>, and a vintage belt and bag, the clothes felt new again. I felt fresh. And pretty (and that never happens anymore).
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdW4MHubG2TMfo64zDUAtBbcoDyrCKT8zutSkKLBgtaImMsEn0Ds6gKx9UzlQRPycBaj6Zl89wHMoZVWBAtCFG3b3nzT4ChAF_zpWmGumvzLqLnuEAWVYilG1ODbWwOYW6v9iJK08NaUU/s1600/graceful+nomad+closeup.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdW4MHubG2TMfo64zDUAtBbcoDyrCKT8zutSkKLBgtaImMsEn0Ds6gKx9UzlQRPycBaj6Zl89wHMoZVWBAtCFG3b3nzT4ChAF_zpWmGumvzLqLnuEAWVYilG1ODbWwOYW6v9iJK08NaUU/s400/graceful+nomad+closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644798328822582562" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The lunch, the dressing up, the feeling of being out-and-about midday sans double stroller was a rare treat, and I reveled in it. I left the house feeling tired and disgruntled and came home ready to tackle dishes, dirty diapers, and five days as a single mom while S headed off on a fishing trip. If that's not some kind of transformation, I don't know what is.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">wearing:</span> old navy vest, target tank, vintage silk skirt, dolce vita sandals, <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=E126G">S&D soiree studs</a>, <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=R115H">S&D soiree trio ring</a>, <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=N236">S&D graceful nomad necklace</a>, vintage bag, vintage belt.
<br /></div></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-23322365217369271942011-08-18T09:24:00.007-04:002011-08-26T10:09:44.885-04:00CSA Supper: Swiss Chard with Garbanzo Beans and Tomatoes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvpwnZjQGfWBO6sXEvpCYxLCyDrM_pg6W9Jatjm81AByxdRG3uFSyfkTdXy6bftbb6MQh3t6HLMSIkYibBhkEiOUjOyu0ovucdZT6OJA_Gw5rRLj9kKgTSkiRDkLvD4ksrHW1Tv8hEH0/s1600/swiss+chard+w+chick+peas.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvpwnZjQGfWBO6sXEvpCYxLCyDrM_pg6W9Jatjm81AByxdRG3uFSyfkTdXy6bftbb6MQh3t6HLMSIkYibBhkEiOUjOyu0ovucdZT6OJA_Gw5rRLj9kKgTSkiRDkLvD4ksrHW1Tv8hEH0/s400/swiss+chard+w+chick+peas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642187573707683458" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It's around this point every summer where my enthusiasm for the copious amount of greens we get each week in our farm share starts to wane. Those giant bags of kale and chard become less of a blessing and more of a curse. I feel obligated to take them, but the idea of eating them braised, steamed, tossed with a vinaigrette, etc., honestly makes me gag a little. It's too much of a good thing, if you will.
<br />
<br />That's why last week I did a little nosing around on the 'nets for some inspiration to get me through the next 12 weeks of farm pick-ups. I came across this recipe on <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/swiss-chard-with-garbanzo-beans-and-fresh-tomatoes/detail.aspx">AllRecipes.com</a> and loved the sound of it because I'm trying more and more to make dinners that all four of us can eat. G and Q love chard and chick peas, so with a little alteration, this meal was perfect!
<br />
<br />I think this recipe was intended as a side dish, but to make it a complete dinner, I increased the amount of beans and served ours over <a href="http://www.wegmans.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10052&partNumber=ITEM_640701">Wegmans Golden Jewel Blend</a>, a mix of Israeli couscous, mini-garbanzo beans, orzo, and red quinoa. The lads had their's with sprouted white quinoa. We all had grilled asparagus on the side. (Oh yeah...and S and I had a glass of Malbec rose.)
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Swiss Chard with Garbanzo Beans and Tomatoes</span>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;">serves 4 (or 2 adults and 2 babies*, with some leftover for the hubby's lunch the next day!)</span>
<br />
<br />2 T. olive oil
<br />1 large onion, chopped
<br />1 16 oz. can of garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
<br />1 large bunch of Swiss chard, cleaned and sliced into ribbons
<br />1 large tomato, sliced
<br />1/2 lemon, juiced
<br />salt & pepper to taste
<br />
<br />1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
<br />2. Add onion and cook until translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
<br />3. Pour in the garbanzo beans and season with salt and pepper.
<br />4. Layer the chard ribbons over the bean and onion mixture, top with the tomato slices, and season with more salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, then cover the pan, cooking until the chard has wilted.
<br />5. Once the chard has wilted, juice the lemon over the top. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Baby version:</span>
<br />Once the chard has wilted, remove 1 cup of the chard/bean/onion mixture from the pan and transfer it into a food processor or food mill. Add one tomato slice. Puree to the consistency to which your baby is comfortable. I decided to leave out the lemon juice since this was our first experience with tomato (two new foods at once seemed risky). I was also pretty light on the s&p until I removed the babies' portion.
<br />
<br />*<span style="font-style: italic;">We follow the <a href="http://www.superbabyfood.com/">Super Baby Food</a> diet, which says it's safe to eat cooked onion, greens and beans at 9 months and tomato and citrus at 12 months</span>.
<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-14351249751380142242011-08-15T10:38:00.033-04:002011-08-26T10:10:05.980-04:001st Birthday Party, G/Q-style (part 1)<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUjd8n1QeUntipL1tTfBytf7Ct-eGYVPRIcuPOJiOP1WsfI93_gcDQWMZbSasWv6tji9g6mrRRDER2_tWFJiONxMPNINVUOrYsgj8Ax-9i7G7bhX1DMVVdgvsPRf4cChRQm4GsS7XuVc/s1600/invite.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUjd8n1QeUntipL1tTfBytf7Ct-eGYVPRIcuPOJiOP1WsfI93_gcDQWMZbSasWv6tji9g6mrRRDER2_tWFJiONxMPNINVUOrYsgj8Ax-9i7G7bhX1DMVVdgvsPRf4cChRQm4GsS7XuVc/s400/invite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641107061355938898" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">We loved these whale invites from <a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/product/12823/birthday_party_invitations_whale_spout.html">Tiny Prints</a>. They perfectly
<br />coordinated with our theme. We're big DIY-entertainers,
<br />but I'm a stickler for nice printed materials.</span>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwHD6KBuDz6Ps5ywSOXNLsAiPodPWlwfJT_FTu4axPWmDWpz3fYqhKVKof55V_wLehMReMWmjdnQna1Dq03nUXawP2VDomfEpjldtSpft7nLYVYPts5JNnHRS0sxUukNOCQf6ks3-nKM/s1600/garland+blowing.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwHD6KBuDz6Ps5ywSOXNLsAiPodPWlwfJT_FTu4axPWmDWpz3fYqhKVKof55V_wLehMReMWmjdnQna1Dq03nUXawP2VDomfEpjldtSpft7nLYVYPts5JNnHRS0sxUukNOCQf6ks3-nKM/s400/garland+blowing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641106531743269554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I was ridiculously excited about making these decorations.
<br />I'm not crafty at all, but give me some crepe paper, paper
<br />lanterns, curling ribbon and a hot glue gun, and somehow
<br />I'll give you a giant octopus and a jellyfish garland!</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjH689Fy23l7LS3Xbx01ohQ8WXjtLQNQTjusvzvVR-uUyv6ZfLPgLen6Z6eLE9L1sa5ospdU2j5OgFGTe1MMmosLvd94qjvYA27bHVbFsQ3s2pLV3VsuAHgYMzK-lRBYSmFDdkh5HLas/s1600/octo+closeup.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjH689Fy23l7LS3Xbx01ohQ8WXjtLQNQTjusvzvVR-uUyv6ZfLPgLen6Z6eLE9L1sa5ospdU2j5OgFGTe1MMmosLvd94qjvYA27bHVbFsQ3s2pLV3VsuAHgYMzK-lRBYSmFDdkh5HLas/s400/octo+closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641106463970208834" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Ms. Octo is ready for her close-up.</span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJ887cS-dikF2eaFloW4N57GbTDf2wzjdlt3vyEfhRWfgcXvDOO2LPJ3FpvUhX-_EZG3hSz_oaYGoKIBktUmcb1Ws1CqqDhNSH-skfeXWE01f0ejMFKT-oBddcUnTgjyzINwfupHrqjA/s1600/jellyfish+closeup.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJ887cS-dikF2eaFloW4N57GbTDf2wzjdlt3vyEfhRWfgcXvDOO2LPJ3FpvUhX-_EZG3hSz_oaYGoKIBktUmcb1Ws1CqqDhNSH-skfeXWE01f0ejMFKT-oBddcUnTgjyzINwfupHrqjA/s400/jellyfish+closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641106386628206242" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I thought the jellies had the sweetest faces!</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3evMh89MSmB8J2j10A4-o3jpdO3_pTnRugm2MX4RZbAGf5Yfd1n4iQu94L3-1ShhwyYZhZdVBxYdTMbzMzEeLz8efVxN7Mb5Xm7UF7U_Ku0j35JPcIgLTLJFJIwXJ6VWCAGLdXPxyoJ4/s1600/dad+swimming.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3evMh89MSmB8J2j10A4-o3jpdO3_pTnRugm2MX4RZbAGf5Yfd1n4iQu94L3-1ShhwyYZhZdVBxYdTMbzMzEeLz8efVxN7Mb5Xm7UF7U_Ku0j35JPcIgLTLJFJIwXJ6VWCAGLdXPxyoJ4/s400/dad+swimming.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641106179466906626" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">My dad thought everyone should have to
<br />"swim" through the tent.</span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7Z3R1Azp-bDevD3V8n_TKg7wruRxR_qwreBQvABGalasEMeFtlcEVQKOmWBb7eEROxGhggWBB4_Z-gB3KJl_QLzysOFbVREpZbeF_uEarHTgBClYXWLxIR4zIAxBGZTjCsEFmQ5TK4Q/s1600/pool.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7Z3R1Azp-bDevD3V8n_TKg7wruRxR_qwreBQvABGalasEMeFtlcEVQKOmWBb7eEROxGhggWBB4_Z-gB3KJl_QLzysOFbVREpZbeF_uEarHTgBClYXWLxIR4zIAxBGZTjCsEFmQ5TK4Q/s400/pool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641106010302978962" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">This is the pool I bought to soak in while pregnant last
<br />summer, now with MUCH cuter contents: an inflatable
<br />octopus from <a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/octopus-shaped-sprinklers-w11/?pkey=e%7Coctopus%7C3%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C24%7C%7C2&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH%7C%7CNoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules-_-">Pottery Barn Kids</a> and whale and beach
<br />balls from the dollar store.</span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUT7Pdc4__bKKEy_dd7ow-lfj85aJQd1dBtXM2KeMZRCdGSF7hQdMrSBGKWYMguyMxH7-4yuiTBoWEaQEMrETC33DiHquuHARoQ-GUNMxhq52SPxeaOZFGZhM8OkPz__ITIrSkC0kO2Sc/s1600/octo+centerpiece.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUT7Pdc4__bKKEy_dd7ow-lfj85aJQd1dBtXM2KeMZRCdGSF7hQdMrSBGKWYMguyMxH7-4yuiTBoWEaQEMrETC33DiHquuHARoQ-GUNMxhq52SPxeaOZFGZhM8OkPz__ITIrSkC0kO2Sc/s400/octo+centerpiece.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105947955207426" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Our centerpieces were cheapo bubble bowls from AC Moore, </span>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">filled with Rhode Island sand from vacation and our tub toys</span>.
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UstXUOD1Bg2FZ7BJFFu8jAFCOG3QVXkuZ8nS5zxdDCMOMNSN65uRuP8_jOCVSxQ9T7rHWVKOkVDI7rmFVAiFVRPQdnb3qSB2E9kLYpQ1D4BQat6vnBLFmp2gj1EoY-V0VsQIA2ZHQp4/s1600/hats+in+a+row.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UstXUOD1Bg2FZ7BJFFu8jAFCOG3QVXkuZ8nS5zxdDCMOMNSN65uRuP8_jOCVSxQ9T7rHWVKOkVDI7rmFVAiFVRPQdnb3qSB2E9kLYpQ1D4BQat6vnBLFmp2gj1EoY-V0VsQIA2ZHQp4/s400/hats+in+a+row.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105854744567570" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I had the most fun making these octopus party hats out of
<br />balloons, </span><span style="font-style: italic;">paper plates and ribbon. I knew it was doubtful
<br />that the babies </span><span style="font-style: italic;">would keep them on, but the idea was
<br />too cute not to attempt!</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZ0cdlVUTvGhM_lHUj3o-ROkIXYO1f1-odtMLkHTPwpEGZlKj8SsdHhOQU2bJrTv5lt9t_rmIU-zQQd_LWG_5Jj7PfOMfiVlqiGzqq0KB-1iGPRltx6eUkiUFU4_exqIvGThCjy_kOQo/s1600/hats+closeup.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZ0cdlVUTvGhM_lHUj3o-ROkIXYO1f1-odtMLkHTPwpEGZlKj8SsdHhOQU2bJrTv5lt9t_rmIU-zQQd_LWG_5Jj7PfOMfiVlqiGzqq0KB-1iGPRltx6eUkiUFU4_exqIvGThCjy_kOQo/s400/hats+closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105799866693650" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Party hats and high chairs waiting for the guests of honor. </span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvv7TLJx-Yq1KQ8Hz51c-A7vPfbdbSg6gxkHDQmvLolTYUFILtzOrGPX8kM2GrIOyPIefQt0reP7lvBkhsAHkZ8U_a5S_yGh4cSt0N8hW-Jd5CGc8jVD6K1On1ciillqAeShnHwm37_lk/s1600/buckets+in+a+row.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvv7TLJx-Yq1KQ8Hz51c-A7vPfbdbSg6gxkHDQmvLolTYUFILtzOrGPX8kM2GrIOyPIefQt0reP7lvBkhsAHkZ8U_a5S_yGh4cSt0N8hW-Jd5CGc8jVD6K1On1ciillqAeShnHwm37_lk/s400/buckets+in+a+row.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105723949465906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">We used sand buckets scored for $1 each at
<br />Christmas Tree Shops to hold favors.</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJfp3-4nR4p8WaVXpcVsbvAHfRJIryUMkm3bQoq1ZrLw6icqKAGSeBbVTMIp3Kc7DSkKDiw_UN7ONAqDUqIBCmmVqelgFWQc99Fp6D2y5XnPDp_va0dItFNsKpl7sAcP64kP6IjPDwLI/s1600/bucket+closeup.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJfp3-4nR4p8WaVXpcVsbvAHfRJIryUMkm3bQoq1ZrLw6icqKAGSeBbVTMIp3Kc7DSkKDiw_UN7ONAqDUqIBCmmVqelgFWQc99Fp6D2y5XnPDp_va0dItFNsKpl7sAcP64kP6IjPDwLI/s400/bucket+closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105586912611826" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I gussied them up with a resin sand dollar
<br />and personalized tag.</span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcrBTMan66IFRkOMeLwJRW5sJ9LtnobarRdsgN1DcRFGwqLJm40aRUsjHw07j-2T8OQJv_Cskyrrb5xUQ7yts3MgIfYVECbT8OCziI2lamQuP1MbJxocyP7rk3RVJJxHAa1agRxUtaF48/s1600/balloons.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcrBTMan66IFRkOMeLwJRW5sJ9LtnobarRdsgN1DcRFGwqLJm40aRUsjHw07j-2T8OQJv_Cskyrrb5xUQ7yts3MgIfYVECbT8OCziI2lamQuP1MbJxocyP7rk3RVJJxHAa1agRxUtaF48/s400/balloons.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105502949345938" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">My mom used these felt banners at my shower last summer,
<br />and I thought it would be a nice tradition to hang them every
<br />year on the boys' birthday.</span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCZGP1HgD9ONdpfAdrqtU6OgKZQZ46WS5nfmMB1vacKg_EPJtHhacmGK4DMcqRAx5430QaQaEW2NKUq4U7kSXDvrmYIIl0m7GbQw-_tRcTx8FLuC3JYb1XLz2iKc0rEqaGV9bH3CJG0VY/s1600/beach+blanket.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCZGP1HgD9ONdpfAdrqtU6OgKZQZ46WS5nfmMB1vacKg_EPJtHhacmGK4DMcqRAx5430QaQaEW2NKUq4U7kSXDvrmYIIl0m7GbQw-_tRcTx8FLuC3JYb1XLz2iKc0rEqaGV9bH3CJG0VY/s400/beach+blanket.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641105443319175906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">We spread a beach blanket as a hangout
<br />for all the babies in attendance.</span>
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAM2fgLPN4SBux_cTFz-SClg_gD6CxSINs3kegvx_g0HWjA1QsLAWj11KhOsSjerHXKQMq-gJF4r_VPMjNQ7FOR7oSZMvT7xYelIriz081o1HGfA1QkXn7hKjOchKyzTPIhXBFrU7nAI/s1600/me.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAM2fgLPN4SBux_cTFz-SClg_gD6CxSINs3kegvx_g0HWjA1QsLAWj11KhOsSjerHXKQMq-gJF4r_VPMjNQ7FOR7oSZMvT7xYelIriz081o1HGfA1QkXn7hKjOchKyzTPIhXBFrU7nAI/s400/me.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641099360559172818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I'm sooooooo ready to get my party on!</span>
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">Stay tuned for more details from the bash!
<br /></div></div>
<br />Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-33203918545625297742011-08-09T10:27:00.009-04:002011-08-25T11:40:16.150-04:00The Arm Party<div style="text-align: justify;">Having babies has seriously cramped my accessorizing. I'm not complaining. I'm happier spending every day in grubby shorts and t-shirts than I ever was getting all dolled up to go sit in an office every day. But sometimes a girl just needs a little bling...bling that can't be hauled on by curious baby-hands. Hence my current obsession with the arm party. Since I can no longer wear my beloved dangley earrings or giant necklaces, why not throw on a massive pile of bracelets?
<br /></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVjs6pnIlmB9ajz_arDxwAO3u6q8RlEx8y4MYHnbPg1Ia-L0WBsuVIEwcFULPOPjmSlgRAsfjqTEy0qXFYQRz5y4DPbyyRsi8ohhjdsAVX2e7dIZDs4UJw1MfPZKu0mVdML2AXg9AwWlk/s1600/sunday+morning+ap.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVjs6pnIlmB9ajz_arDxwAO3u6q8RlEx8y4MYHnbPg1Ia-L0WBsuVIEwcFULPOPjmSlgRAsfjqTEy0qXFYQRz5y4DPbyyRsi8ohhjdsAVX2e7dIZDs4UJw1MfPZKu0mVdML2AXg9AwWlk/s400/sunday+morning+ap.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638863227412623730" border="0" /></a>Sunday Morning arm party
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=B164G">Stella & Dot Renegade Cluster bracelet</a>
<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=B175CO">Stella & Dot Pyramid Double Wrap bracelet</a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Bermuda and Cape Cod bracelets</span></span>
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5iw3bHvBJFzo8pXG3U4wMCdoCZ0SKPdIGvwus1z-8gkY7spnIbNZ_B6ogCQ19Q0JBQPoe-4pfze7rH_w6QYogrZ2kLmZ9R4SaYIy52TxX6wMvOLEPfhyT7tV5adtDeFxz1e_xb42U98w/s1600/walk+like+an+egyptian+ap.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5iw3bHvBJFzo8pXG3U4wMCdoCZ0SKPdIGvwus1z-8gkY7spnIbNZ_B6ogCQ19Q0JBQPoe-4pfze7rH_w6QYogrZ2kLmZ9R4SaYIy52TxX6wMvOLEPfhyT7tV5adtDeFxz1e_xb42U98w/s400/walk+like+an+egyptian+ap.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638863153230994914" border="0" /></a>Walk like an Egyptian arm party
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=B164G">Stella & Dot Renegade Cluster bracelet</a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Bermuda and Cape Cod bracelets</span>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Vintage scarab bracelet and enamel cuff</span></span>
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<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GANxzuAe-Z1ApAWoatQv0Q1zbgm-Tsyc1IvDgoQo4yyc0k1JPxJU-Zf6cXQftE1is2kF7qxdwX7tQcQ4QC6l3XEmXsvY0aF-oQYNM7pJsKGxvXKbRHmNsYjmfAjMBPZao3GcvLBQXz4/s1600/silver+ap.htm"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GANxzuAe-Z1ApAWoatQv0Q1zbgm-Tsyc1IvDgoQo4yyc0k1JPxJU-Zf6cXQftE1is2kF7qxdwX7tQcQ4QC6l3XEmXsvY0aF-oQYNM7pJsKGxvXKbRHmNsYjmfAjMBPZao3GcvLBQXz4/s400/silver+ap.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638862852097376306" border="0" /></a>Super Shiny arm party
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productgroup&productGroupId=119"><span style="font-style: italic;">Stella & Dot Devi bangles in silver</span></a>
<br /><a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rebekahcb/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=B177S"><span style="font-style: italic;">Stella & Dot Corso cuff</span></a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Bermuda and Cape Cod bracelets</span>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Vintage Sarah Coventry bracelet</span></span>
<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-1640303025291427692011-08-04T20:13:00.009-04:002011-08-15T21:05:28.678-04:00A letter to myself.<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5tQNOvZtLonQ9Wb478H3JyN0CHBe6ODFpfDFa2ShJY9rSkKLqL_iYQrv8DamvojrH0KJK42a5Gr2rm9bN_a5qt_J44YWL1etNaGsKTOiT27axTBMF2ZcnwqHYSfspV8ivK6eoKPTIoA/s1600/belly.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5tQNOvZtLonQ9Wb478H3JyN0CHBe6ODFpfDFa2ShJY9rSkKLqL_iYQrv8DamvojrH0KJK42a5Gr2rm9bN_a5qt_J44YWL1etNaGsKTOiT27axTBMF2ZcnwqHYSfspV8ivK6eoKPTIoA/s400/belly.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637158351913039810" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">37 weeks </span></span>, <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">August 4, 2010</span></span>
<br /></div>
<br />Dear Me:
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I know what you're doing...you're sitting in bed, watching <span style="font-style: italic;">Twilight</span> in a feeble attempt to distract yourself from the dread that's making your heart so heavy you think it might suffocate you and the babies. You're feeling like before your tenure as a mother has even begun, you've already failed. Failed because your c-section was scheduled and instead of being so excited to meet those two little guys you've grown, you're terrified. Failed because despite every attempt, you couldn't get Baby A to turn. Failed because you think having a natural birth was your last chance to have a "normal" pregnancy experience. Failed because after everything you've been through over the last two years--the heartache, the fear, the shots and procedures--you've been so brave. But where is your courage now?
<br />
<br />Well, lovey, let me give you a little peak into the future. I can't tell you that the c-section was great, that the hospital met all your birth plan requests, that breastfeeding was a breeze, or that what happens on August 12 won't change you--make you stronger and harder in some ways and more fragile in others. But I can tell you this: one year from now, you will be so proud of yourself.
<br />
<br />You will have these two perfect little humans that you will marvel at every day. They will exceed your wildest expectations...like that somehow the embryologist selected the two sperms and two eggs that contained the very best of S's and your DNA. You will look at them every day and be reminded of how blessed you are, of just how much God spared you from...that, as bad as it was, it could have been far, far worse.
<br />
<br />You won't suck at being a mother. In fact, for the first time in your life, you'll actually feel like you're good at something. You'll find patience and love like you could never have imagined (Mom was right...you had NO idea the depth of a mother's love).
<br />
<br />You'll finally understand that you couldn't move Baby A (that's G, by the way), because once he makes his mind up to do something, he does it no matter what. He's stubborn and tenacious. And you'll love him for those qualities and a million others.
<br />
<br />And I know you're worried that things will change between you and S. They will. But not like you think. You'll actually be closer and more of a team than ever before. His stoicism will balance your neurotic mama freak-outs, and your heart will break at how deeply devoted he is to the boys. Seeing them together will remind you over and over of why you went through what you did--to give him this gift...these babies...his sons.
<br />
<br />Now go back to watching Edward and Bella. Enjoy these last few lazy moments. Thank God that you're 37 weeks pregnant with two strong, healthy babies. Find peace in your heart knowing that despite what happens next week, it will all be worth it. In a year, G will sing along as you two dance around to the Slackers. Q will give you big, wet kisses and rub his little cheek against yours. A lot will be taken from you in that operating room, but not these moments. They will be made more precious, more sweet and fleeting, because you will never forget that for as bad as it was, it could have been far, far worse.
<br />
<br />Love,
<br />You
<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-34453885130549199402011-08-03T11:11:00.013-04:002011-08-04T20:13:08.680-04:00Ricotta Spelt Pancakes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQeTndsVhdSHGZ4SU2e1N7Q1l2xitBIJ5F8ZgteYXegCGJmrrMQi1V9JRhiylabxfVFQyMalh9fV08_aHkOaeSnm-9d4VtDaNOmv1g2Lvda5gasYB3gdJwJlfCUZY8VXZ3BXDlbXtjbm8/s1600/IMGP4278.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQeTndsVhdSHGZ4SU2e1N7Q1l2xitBIJ5F8ZgteYXegCGJmrrMQi1V9JRhiylabxfVFQyMalh9fV08_aHkOaeSnm-9d4VtDaNOmv1g2Lvda5gasYB3gdJwJlfCUZY8VXZ3BXDlbXtjbm8/s400/IMGP4278.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636649086120875634" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Sunday morning was the last day of our first family vacation (we were technically home at that point), and even though we often make a big breakfast on Sunday mornings (like <a href="http://shellblogshop.blogspot.com/2009/09/finnish-pancake-fresh-berries-black.html">this one</a>), I decided I wanted to do something extra special. Try something new. Most importantly, I wanted G and Q to be able to eat whatever I made. I looked for some inspiration online and decided to make ricotta pancakes. To make them baby-friendly, I opted to use spelt flour instead of all-purpose.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYMjnGaAdozW8NNJLf5Jht2bmHkuL32WfwTDTW0gk810ArKeCLp7u5P6Zb6uVHhamjF884Mws33obEAJdie0mxfmC78rp7iTTOUOsKbzW5raIq-onyirBonSBbx69EYGkKfM0NwGhAAk0/s1600/IMGP4277.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYMjnGaAdozW8NNJLf5Jht2bmHkuL32WfwTDTW0gk810ArKeCLp7u5P6Zb6uVHhamjF884Mws33obEAJdie0mxfmC78rp7iTTOUOsKbzW5raIq-onyirBonSBbx69EYGkKfM0NwGhAAk0/s400/IMGP4277.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636648364784917714" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The result? The lightest, moistest, most flavorful pancakes ever. To gussy them up for S and me, I topped them with a homemade lemon thyme syrup and blackberries from our bushes. The lads just had them plain, but loved them any way. Q scarfed two in two minutes flat (mmmm-mmmming the entire time, as he is wont to do (that kid is a serious foodie already!)) and would have eaten more if we hadn't already polished them off!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ricotta Spelt Pancakes, aka Babies' 1st Pancake</span>s<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">serves 4 (or, in our case, 2 piggish adults and 2 babies)</span><br /><br />1 cup organic whole milk ricotta<br />1/2 cup water (you could use milk to make them richer, but I used water since the lads haven't had milk yet)<br />2 large eggs, separated<br />1/2 cup spelt flour<br />1 tsp baking powder<br />2 tbsp raw sugar<br />1 tsp sunflower oil<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, water and egg yolks. Add the flour, baking powder, and sugar, stirring to make a thick batter.<br />2. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are white and foamy, but still loose. Gently fold the beaten whites into the batter. (Note: you could easily skip this step if you aren't yet ready to give your baby egg whites. The result would simply be a denser, less fluffy pancake.)<br />3. Heat the oil in a skillet or large frying pan over medium heat. Using a tablespoon, drop batter onto the hot pan. Cook pancakes approximately 2 minutes per side, or until they are a golden brown. I ended up getting about 24 half-dollar size pancakes (yep...we ate them all!!!).<br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lemon Thyme Syrup</span><br /><br />1 cup water<br />1 cup raw sugar<br />5 sprigs of thyme<br />1 lemon, zested<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Add water, sugar, whole thyme sprigs, and zest of the lemon to a small sauce pan over medium low heat.<br />2. Bring mixture to a slow boil, just until sugar is melted.<br />3. Remove from heat and let cool. Remove thyme and strain lemon zest (if you'd like--I left the zest in because I think it looks pretty!).<br /></div></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-48318809539296950962011-07-05T15:10:00.015-04:002011-07-05T20:43:58.951-04:00Pasta Salad Nicoise<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGlQ_GHyNSl0_j1FlzS6F7jEgsqb0Wl3bGT3ulGGs0XOPylxnazP7pa_7us3opeam-ncwzgYmkDxE1oRmagdqEzEhBxbU_Lb-ShRSMXk2_JtaZe7WTbhTnO4GIbKgUclVeumtoO4CAd0/s1600/IMGP1672.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGlQ_GHyNSl0_j1FlzS6F7jEgsqb0Wl3bGT3ulGGs0XOPylxnazP7pa_7us3opeam-ncwzgYmkDxE1oRmagdqEzEhBxbU_Lb-ShRSMXk2_JtaZe7WTbhTnO4GIbKgUclVeumtoO4CAd0/s400/IMGP1672.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625948466138267234" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It's always during those few days leading up to doing some major food shopping when your true culinary mettle is tested. There's nothing fresh...just a few limp leaves of lettuce and a wrinkly apple staring out of the crisper drawer. Your pantry is a hodgepodge of random ingredients (pasta shaped like Christmas stockings? Where did <span style="font-style: italic;">that</span> come from?) I love those days. Some of my best recipes have come to me during those times (like <a href="http://shellblogshop.blogspot.com/2009/10/15-minute-pasta.html">this one</a>). But, you know, I also like to watch <span style="font-style: italic;">Chopped</span> and mentally play along (what <span style="font-style: italic;">would</span> I make out of calamari, prickly pear, chocolate syrup and Wasa toasts?). I'm crazy like that.<br /><br />During such a time this Pasta Salad Nicoise was born. It was a particularly dry spell for our kitchen because I was in the middle of giving myself about 20 shots of fertility drugs each day, which meant grocery shopping was a super low priority. That said, I was also preparing my body for the embryos that would be transferred in a few weeks and eating lots of protein, lots of Omegas, lots of greens, blah, blah blah...but let's be honest, the hormones were making me crave <span style="font-style: italic;">lots of CARBS</span>. This salad fit the bill on many levels, so we ate it frequently over those few weeks (while watching copious hours of <span style="font-style: italic;">Golden Girls</span> to distract ourselves!). And hey--two out of our three transferred embryos took, so who's to say there isn't some secret fertility juju in it...eat it at your own risk!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pasta Salad Nicoise</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">serves 4</span><br />1/2 lb pasta (I think Barilla gemelli or mezze penne work best for this, but you use the shape you like best)<br />1 can tuna in water, drained<br />2 hard boiled eggs<br />1/3 bag (about 1 cup) frozen, shelled edamame (I know haricot vert are traditional for this salad, but I think the size and firmness of the edamame holds up much better next to the pasta while keeping a similar flavor profile--and majorly upping the protein)<br />1/2 cup mayonnaise<br />1 heaping teaspoon dijon mustard<br />1/2 tsp celery seed<br />2 dozen kalamata olives<br />s&p to taste<br />baby spinach<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Put eggs on to boil, starting them in cool water. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes, then remove the eggs from heat and let them sit for another 5 minutes. Pour off hot water and recover the eggs with cold water, letting them sit until you are ready to mix them into the salad.<br />2. Cook pasta to specifications on the box, adding edamame to the cooking pasta for the last 3 minutes.<br />3. Drain pasta and edamame, then pour into a large bowl. While the pasta is still warm, add the tuna, mayo, dijon, celery seed, and salt and pepper. Mix and adjust ingredients as needed or to your taste (I have a dijon problem, so I actually add more like 2 teaspoons instead of the 1 stated above).<br />4. Peel and roughly chop eggs. Mix them into the pasta.<br />5. To serve, place pasta salad on a bed of baby spinach and top with 1/2 dozen kalamata olives. A big hunk of French bread and glass of Pinot Noir can't hurt either.<br /></div><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Bon appetite!</span><br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-52330910271931053582011-05-19T09:28:00.008-04:002011-05-19T09:45:24.969-04:00Birthday List<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My birthday is rapidly approaching (as in, it's tomorrow). Here are a few things I'm wishing I'd unwrap...</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoyvTC9vG_RGbPCPRr2-B1NBKB-uy2oD4FWyKX5A79we6RMf_uZft8iK5SgF5ZO5-Q0e3zQWI97lUUFT7bkxRgeQZ0Z3pMr5k-dFqgO-42niwzCkDFjLT6vqrLz2hAiRUG-RXo6O-bio/s1600/jewelry+by+naomi+domed+octopus+cuff.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoyvTC9vG_RGbPCPRr2-B1NBKB-uy2oD4FWyKX5A79we6RMf_uZft8iK5SgF5ZO5-Q0e3zQWI97lUUFT7bkxRgeQZ0Z3pMr5k-dFqgO-42niwzCkDFjLT6vqrLz2hAiRUG-RXo6O-bio/s400/jewelry+by+naomi+domed+octopus+cuff.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608420612984793442" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/53997555/domed-octopus-cuff?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=octopus+cuff&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">domed octopus cuff, jewelry by naomi</a></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEham5lxCoxC4451TagWWxX_WzP145ce_Ehh4v6GyCAHG_n2NdevD16tRt6oMYVTeMQlMW0MhRuyubJJsoXPP_sIJ05_cpcqnA0h_F2l3IkX0KKFpiy_uXKGBcP4d74fe2IibC_F6IN-Lho/s1600/octopusme+tentacle+earrings.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 399px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEham5lxCoxC4451TagWWxX_WzP145ce_Ehh4v6GyCAHG_n2NdevD16tRt6oMYVTeMQlMW0MhRuyubJJsoXPP_sIJ05_cpcqnA0h_F2l3IkX0KKFpiy_uXKGBcP4d74fe2IibC_F6IN-Lho/s400/octopusme+tentacle+earrings.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608420160560788034" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><a style="font-family: arial; font-style: italic;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59428294/short-and-sexier-octopus-tentacle?ref=sr_gallery_12&ga_search_query=tentacle+earring&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">tentacle earrings, OctopusMe</a></span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoyFIy3gaeSJJdbdkhDkysebZyfRChMUA_McQ8kt3BmrnnhmP2AWcK4NC0zoJjKdzjZD0xrf_ZjEKY6g74uLA0489PcDvM4nDP6FggQGu0LmPG2fiH5xnmji5z6OpWLbQEU1SBdCy6kU/s1600/my-fathers-daughter1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 330px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoyFIy3gaeSJJdbdkhDkysebZyfRChMUA_McQ8kt3BmrnnhmP2AWcK4NC0zoJjKdzjZD0xrf_ZjEKY6g74uLA0489PcDvM4nDP6FggQGu0LmPG2fiH5xnmji5z6OpWLbQEU1SBdCy6kU/s400/my-fathers-daughter1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608420092508218850" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.amazon.com/Fathers-Daughter-Delicious-Celebrating-Togetherness/dp/0446557315/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=I33WI4DL4QD2D9&colid=1UHZO0SEF3A58">gwyneth's cookbook</a></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">An </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=GIFTCAR">Anthro</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> or </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="https://www.toryburch.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-ToryBurch_US-Site/default/GiftCert-Purchase">Tory Burch</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> gift card would also be lovely....</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Most of all, I'm hoping for some nice weather so we can head to the zoo with G/Q.</span><br /></div><br /></div></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-36348807060771711662011-05-17T09:23:00.004-04:002011-05-17T10:06:36.423-04:00Let the Summer Reading Begin!<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqkgFO_xngXckPDiAOamcDHpXzP0XP4qpEJsSbMtxkVoqczhOQ9Ad2SxKy0tg5YxWH-oA5FDYCxaYCNA5Y03v34ApejVYmUZeXv5krugdXpF7aKfBFPy_PbCZpEw3aHpgEywaapzD6FY/s1600/ruth+orkin+sitting+at+statue+1951.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqkgFO_xngXckPDiAOamcDHpXzP0XP4qpEJsSbMtxkVoqczhOQ9Ad2SxKy0tg5YxWH-oA5FDYCxaYCNA5Y03v34ApejVYmUZeXv5krugdXpF7aKfBFPy_PbCZpEw3aHpgEywaapzD6FY/s400/ruth+orkin+sitting+at+statue+1951.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607675140851922098" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It could not feel less like summer here. It's currently 51 degrees, foggy as heck, and drizzling. It's putting me in an incredible funk because instead of sitting on my sunny back porch playing with G and Q, I'm huddled on the sofa under a down blanket, nursing a luke-warm cup of coffee, wasting time on the Nets while the boys take their morning nap. Surly, I tell you...I'm downright <span style="font-style: italic;">surly</span>.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">But despite the very unsummerlike weather conditions, last night I kicked off my summer reading with Jean Rhys' <span style="font-style: italic;">Wide Sargasso Sea</span>. Mother's Day weekend I saw the <span style="font-style: italic;">Jane Eyre</span> movie that's out right now, so I decided it was finally time to tackle this book. I'm about halfway through already and love the spooky, slightly disjointed narration (which, incidentally, feels very much like the tone of the new movie). I have a feeling reading this book is going to forever change how I feel about <span style="font-style: italic;">Jane Eyre</span>, making me completely sympathetic to the "first Mrs. Rochester" like how reading <span style="font-style: italic;">Wicked</span> has now made me sad for the Wicked Witch whenever I watch <span style="font-style: italic;">Wizard of Oz</span>.<br /><br />Next up...John Knowles' <span style="font-style: italic;">The Magus</span> and Caleb Carr's <span style="font-style: italic;">The Alienist</span>. (Think the weather is influencing my decisions at all?) What's on your summer reading list?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">p.s. I'm always in love with </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.orkinphoto.com/biography/">Ruth Orkin's</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> photos. Don't you want her sandals? </span><br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-19068641351978520962010-11-17T15:10:00.002-05:002010-11-17T15:16:33.027-05:00Cool Coat<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiTEtWDaFFSuUXGZiD414jjCIFTUTtIEWEMFeJ7kesWFXGqXrUHpcFlW0txg9QHDDCG5a609mJBRAOi-HwqxH5CNs9X92LR2xKxMvsevpwYYvXMv2lw2SYV_cKtaFGB54q3S-d-Gez-M/s1600/navypeacoatwool.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 292px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiTEtWDaFFSuUXGZiD414jjCIFTUTtIEWEMFeJ7kesWFXGqXrUHpcFlW0txg9QHDDCG5a609mJBRAOi-HwqxH5CNs9X92LR2xKxMvsevpwYYvXMv2lw2SYV_cKtaFGB54q3S-d-Gez-M/s400/navypeacoatwool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540613766920902242" border="0" /></a><br />I love <a href="http://shopramonawest.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=6&products_id=1537&osCsid=c125280dfd1ea8079b3a0bf81bbfdfe0">this peacoat</a> from <a href="http://shopramonawest.com/catalog/index.php?osCsid=c125280dfd1ea8079b3a0bf81bbfdfe0">Ramona West</a> for it's <a href="http://www.google.com/images?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&q=ali+macgraw&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=univ&ei=YDbkTLDPAsH88Abf0bC8DQ&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=1&ved=0CDQQsAQwAA&biw=1280&bih=607">Ali Macgraw</a>/<a href="http://www.google.com/images?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&q=mcmillan+and+wife&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=univ&ei=bjfkTKvOGMH88Ab9-oyhDQ&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CEkQsAQwAw&biw=1280&bih=607">Sally MacMillan</a> 70s chicness.Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-9586464501191079892010-11-15T10:20:00.008-05:002010-11-15T13:09:19.784-05:00Have you tried...pumpkin seed oil?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggj4Hxio5VmH0i2gqawC-6qeyz25gWhCntxUi3tThHcCLqurQXgFQjwEIOpMcBfysv0LAiWeM2XlKCsmRt7hYghrrw4cUJjGs8DSGdI3JQ5mUHL4XPcPxr9XJDFy0aSazvBuT72zzYi1E/s1600/IMGP1585.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggj4Hxio5VmH0i2gqawC-6qeyz25gWhCntxUi3tThHcCLqurQXgFQjwEIOpMcBfysv0LAiWeM2XlKCsmRt7hYghrrw4cUJjGs8DSGdI3JQ5mUHL4XPcPxr9XJDFy0aSazvBuT72zzYi1E/s400/IMGP1585.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539823990210305938" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">We eat a lot of roasted squash around here in the fall (like at least twice a week). Butternut, acorn, delicata, sweet dumpling...we love them all. Usually I simply roast the squashes with olive oil and s&p, but after reading about pumpkin seed oil, I picked some up a few months ago, and it's been my roasting oil of choice since then. </span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxxBL9XpO6Dab12UD6RuLYBnCo9hniK406lOa1HUf5dtW58vvBXrLpazTAvpV4RdM1q-kreQgt4aRFOxSr0QtcBK8OiwwsQyTdLPFqV_mKiLRJfE6rYuG1w9n48ayxjxrnTS7r1y5J9Y/s1600/IMGP1580.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxxBL9XpO6Dab12UD6RuLYBnCo9hniK406lOa1HUf5dtW58vvBXrLpazTAvpV4RdM1q-kreQgt4aRFOxSr0QtcBK8OiwwsQyTdLPFqV_mKiLRJfE6rYuG1w9n48ayxjxrnTS7r1y5J9Y/s400/IMGP1580.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539819866184239506" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">It definitely has a nuttier, richer flavor than olive oil, but doesn't overwhelm an ingredient as light as delicata. I even used it to roast golden beets, adding a little curry powder as well. The result was a super nutty, almost meat-y tasting beet that I added to a curry dish, then later put on top of a salad.</span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPtexpLJFhhZC04THPCHCEWlOmeiUEtxXZErxDauaX0Ju4lrDFEYMiAQ9FKRFakoMYaHBBno1lZ-KYlyzznERu9DVXCdi8CoJN4n0jMLuO_c5Xwg91I-bD0tSGWzmnixYQU5ovVgYbNg/s1600/IMGP1583.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPtexpLJFhhZC04THPCHCEWlOmeiUEtxXZErxDauaX0Ju4lrDFEYMiAQ9FKRFakoMYaHBBno1lZ-KYlyzznERu9DVXCdi8CoJN4n0jMLuO_c5Xwg91I-bD0tSGWzmnixYQU5ovVgYbNg/s400/IMGP1583.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539797885673132946" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Last night we had one of our favorite meals: roasted sweet dumpling squash, stuffed with a wild rice pilaf filled with celery, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, dried cranberries, apples, and walnuts (normally it would also have onions, but since they don't seem to agree with the twins, I can't eat them until I'm done nursing), with a side of wilted kale dressed in a maple dijon vinaigrette. The best part? The glass of Sauvignon Blanc we drank to wash it all down!<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-63470768782044734602010-11-11T11:50:00.004-05:002010-11-11T12:13:22.786-05:00Where You Been?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjVcYIDoRKpy6s64WPL6dPrydYS7GLZIp8ueSbFnW_SQfTxn0yxBcxX5e9vO3aCZx_dY27auDcloq5Rf375qIczh13d9nzwiKTyduYkIBMwQy20K9Cg3GyAI7arGt8AhXvl_FZZS_iuek/s1600/IMGP1472.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjVcYIDoRKpy6s64WPL6dPrydYS7GLZIp8ueSbFnW_SQfTxn0yxBcxX5e9vO3aCZx_dY27auDcloq5Rf375qIczh13d9nzwiKTyduYkIBMwQy20K9Cg3GyAI7arGt8AhXvl_FZZS_iuek/s400/IMGP1472.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538337365825270770" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYKA1f1Aa6GaBkDMwUkMkx0bmdPwW9EUANc-kMbL7DpXf8AkyT3QXENapQwn4uyBwCb1qdwZd0R12ABAHDrIYJxTNMhaVyE9F_ZEqSooJNzyzkCzQTlCYOn5aNX7x96lY8i9KIp9QPbg/s1600/IMGP1490.JPG"><span></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Hey...remember me? So much has happened since I last blogged...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Say hi to Quint and Griffin born on August 12, 2010. It's amazing how quickly life can change once you have a child (children)...in miraculous ways that being pregnant for nine months can't even begin to prepare you for. You gain so much perspective, and these talents and skills emerge that you never even knew you had (like patience...wow--where did that come from?!).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">And I'm not working any more (caring for two babies is </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >definitely</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> a full-time job!). So instead of my days being filled with meetings and travel, it's now filled with feedings and play time and laundry and trying to cook a healthy dinner for the hubby and me. Funny how accomplishing just those few things every day seems <span style="font-style: italic;">just huge</span>, and I'm so proud when it all goes well. Way more proud than of anything I ever accomplished at work.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">But you know what? I'm still me...and I still love shoes...and good food...and books. And the twins don't yet care about any of those things, so I'm going to try to get this thing going again. I hope somebody's still reading! xo</span><br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-9365575628797185882010-06-07T15:37:00.003-04:002010-11-11T12:20:19.861-05:00Shoe of the Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvSW-E4syJV5kldGqDnrTVkUJsKQ2XT_mlA4LIJgpsPZiHIFEdx_uxe7YAsCZs5B_Z6ugXXJtz8U2NQZ6Q78R3UTZgFUv3utP69iDLPxgQPhcVyxZr8qLvb_OeWbObCbuKU-OpSJc2NA/s1600/il_430xN.146365101.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvSW-E4syJV5kldGqDnrTVkUJsKQ2XT_mlA4LIJgpsPZiHIFEdx_uxe7YAsCZs5B_Z6ugXXJtz8U2NQZ6Q78R3UTZgFUv3utP69iDLPxgQPhcVyxZr8qLvb_OeWbObCbuKU-OpSJc2NA/s400/il_430xN.146365101.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480118253417086514" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Darlingtonia Moccasin Co.'s <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47917857/hitchcock-moccasin-the-hitchmocc-womens">Hitchcock Moccasins</a>...these will be perfect for chasing after two crazy toddlers in the very near future, don't you think?<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-48177914820382045682010-06-03T10:36:00.003-04:002010-06-03T10:53:36.729-04:00Don't mess with Texas or...Rhode Island???<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37A9IrKk73yojfecr8HbbTNe7quri_HX07Ya1mYGWSttQiR6qoJSns1x_eBKmkHeOyXn434ODlD7N7IKYbu9-9sEEfDs4bXzEvEx_u76Bve5dvAPWZB3bxY3OehQ8Ct3adMwZPaksRGw/s1600/3775882181_b1b7aef4a1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37A9IrKk73yojfecr8HbbTNe7quri_HX07Ya1mYGWSttQiR6qoJSns1x_eBKmkHeOyXn434ODlD7N7IKYbu9-9sEEfDs4bXzEvEx_u76Bve5dvAPWZB3bxY3OehQ8Ct3adMwZPaksRGw/s400/3775882181_b1b7aef4a1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478556396585188482" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I grew up in Pennsylvania but have zero home state pride--unlike the hubby who is 100% Jersey born and bred...and damn proud of it!!! But Rhode Island? Now that's a state a girl can love (this girl, anyway). How cool is <a href="http://lilhop.com/bit.htm">this t-shirt</a>? It's had me chuckling for the last 10 minutes.<br /><br />In fact there are several things in this shop, <a href="http://lilhop.com/index.htm">Bit and Little Bit,</a> that I think I want...like some adorable <a href="http://lilhop.com/onez.htm">onesies and bibs</a> for the twins. And what I find even cooler is that the creator of all this cuteness, Hilary Treadway, is also a trained doula! What a multi-talented lady!<br /><br />(<span style="font-style: italic;">via </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://thecraptasticvoyage.tumblr.com/post/659644537/dont-mess-with-rhode-island-either">The Craptastic Voyage</a>)<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-90008267290738048462010-06-02T12:39:00.001-04:002010-06-02T14:28:20.578-04:00Walcott, Mystic Seaport is that way...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8B3_zLIdNqp-Da4nK_fA9FXJfKDAh9CrTrmjBfRSGxYFn0lE3k3JVMMnSYGCwYkOHUTV2umsF1Eb5xWj5QV42ZZp6RV_YE5rh-7GzHJgrQTjppFWJ4hUZKiL3TohfRqXXLDm-Mu8goxk/s1600/nkotb+ready.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8B3_zLIdNqp-Da4nK_fA9FXJfKDAh9CrTrmjBfRSGxYFn0lE3k3JVMMnSYGCwYkOHUTV2umsF1Eb5xWj5QV42ZZp6RV_YE5rh-7GzHJgrQTjppFWJ4hUZKiL3TohfRqXXLDm-Mu8goxk/s400/nkotb+ready.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478215016211063570" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Mom and I all ready for the NKOTB concert at Foxwood's</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">(I know...we have a major problem!)</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dV3NEW7saOqs5cN4oDGouT7-lTvH_8rwNcXt86TEkOt2saZoxw4c28JpQUVd1H2ZlVo9rXcJPTR-xg0i4OQ2C35K5xFwOKpv2efX8tPdlnlc_e5rRMwx9NjAm9RBOxLaEj9RUuMC1Cg/s1600/morgan.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dV3NEW7saOqs5cN4oDGouT7-lTvH_8rwNcXt86TEkOt2saZoxw4c28JpQUVd1H2ZlVo9rXcJPTR-xg0i4OQ2C35K5xFwOKpv2efX8tPdlnlc_e5rRMwx9NjAm9RBOxLaEj9RUuMC1Cg/s400/morgan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475224124051855202" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Charles W. Morgan restoration project at Mystic Seaport</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4BS3wE6vLOXsntJDhHRo8LXnpJUOu08LGBRkfJmyqM1QJ6Q5jdpC8ATubrb-UEExTl_OjeknCEwk98pSEUIHnkodajCBrO_TCNm-BpjCdTsSW2zQuYxWnzrdJmtCvkljE6Ebpqb8btc/s1600/made+it.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4BS3wE6vLOXsntJDhHRo8LXnpJUOu08LGBRkfJmyqM1QJ6Q5jdpC8ATubrb-UEExTl_OjeknCEwk98pSEUIHnkodajCBrO_TCNm-BpjCdTsSW2zQuYxWnzrdJmtCvkljE6Ebpqb8btc/s400/made+it.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474920891823678610" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I climbed 4 flights of stairs to get on the Morgan...I was determined!</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0Xj4Bpq9sEud6pVBIVXfSqjWjgUJwGrwWk7bu2d8s0oe-N6KeHWNro8shQmJx2LN_M0g2IGGLRvbF5XLxxBZGgaEcBLjeQP3gIySr-WkulQnyNAL-OufGMRYGSDTk5LuCqLeaV35GkQ/s1600/deck+prism.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0Xj4Bpq9sEud6pVBIVXfSqjWjgUJwGrwWk7bu2d8s0oe-N6KeHWNro8shQmJx2LN_M0g2IGGLRvbF5XLxxBZGgaEcBLjeQP3gIySr-WkulQnyNAL-OufGMRYGSDTk5LuCqLeaV35GkQ/s400/deck+prism.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474920340300681618" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Deck prism </span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfG_QQBgAXnJNaK-Va5Bl4HnhfnSMN_5qvif2MzMVmrCpOj4PrKiUy72ID_VLxxwrk1yjLwgkvaLT0DVWoq2V2aYESjCNjVDYZvvKx8G48GwbJNjNt-4d65JzJ_YMAauw1ms9iTBh4C8A/s1600/barnacles.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfG_QQBgAXnJNaK-Va5Bl4HnhfnSMN_5qvif2MzMVmrCpOj4PrKiUy72ID_VLxxwrk1yjLwgkvaLT0DVWoq2V2aYESjCNjVDYZvvKx8G48GwbJNjNt-4d65JzJ_YMAauw1ms9iTBh4C8A/s400/barnacles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474920282585089074" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Barnacles</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFZGucRkFyiCM4MHy8ZIiEwJp6jtPN08Vaimi5f5UIWK480jKN_w0N4PJVfked71G-LJa6OkNgcwR3atrHrXKS0JgtuPNckVoQnL-pFEkSCoy9XB7GbsgJdqkTtxAT5nIE3Orlm9gPcg/s1600/dad.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFZGucRkFyiCM4MHy8ZIiEwJp6jtPN08Vaimi5f5UIWK480jKN_w0N4PJVfked71G-LJa6OkNgcwR3atrHrXKS0JgtuPNckVoQnL-pFEkSCoy9XB7GbsgJdqkTtxAT5nIE3Orlm9gPcg/s400/dad.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474920063189455858" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">My dad at his happiest...ok...actually he'd be happier if he were sailing on that little Beetle Cat in the background.</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkiQD-0nA5HkwEcCixBxBY6vk132o47cslYamDOwQk34BnME-fGDRv70uFMp0H4dfVaD-bQAr_O6N9cuROU1_mNFWR3_V9M8cuX5x0qTBTKSLR1ECocL_5b-4ZIxzvKUYuy9EOl4cZP8E/s1600/sabino.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkiQD-0nA5HkwEcCixBxBY6vk132o47cslYamDOwQk34BnME-fGDRv70uFMp0H4dfVaD-bQAr_O6N9cuROU1_mNFWR3_V9M8cuX5x0qTBTKSLR1ECocL_5b-4ZIxzvKUYuy9EOl4cZP8E/s400/sabino.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474920012759402322" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Steamboat ride</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxGU6zDCmgyAzTrCUWOonmuBkhYjSQWSnNfsnn6bWOM3HI2RCy4WAqJUR84L-uGTe-GdtBDdeVnsZo4rzzEbXdRzp9IRJX2UVqO3FmmNPu2kkL1Z0f13c1EVwYRzUCgF6or-_EJ7FjMM/s1600/tugboat.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxGU6zDCmgyAzTrCUWOonmuBkhYjSQWSnNfsnn6bWOM3HI2RCy4WAqJUR84L-uGTe-GdtBDdeVnsZo4rzzEbXdRzp9IRJX2UVqO3FmmNPu2kkL1Z0f13c1EVwYRzUCgF6or-_EJ7FjMM/s400/tugboat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919790323551010" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">The hubby, playing in the tugboat exhibit</span>.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3SgItsg0TniqxXkbXH34dq3myxQHe47e4QAbVvbJs7DvCxDTc-7Bey_l5yjsNk4svGlRpY3XWboNDL4z6fMX5PMKXiKL6TDOZ0Ff0oHZymQ-uuxTeUUDApTtjIzB1CsHR30R-uJQi2mw/s1600/tired.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3SgItsg0TniqxXkbXH34dq3myxQHe47e4QAbVvbJs7DvCxDTc-7Bey_l5yjsNk4svGlRpY3XWboNDL4z6fMX5PMKXiKL6TDOZ0Ff0oHZymQ-uuxTeUUDApTtjIzB1CsHR30R-uJQi2mw/s400/tired.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919731594034418" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Getting worn out<span style="font-style: italic;">...</span>and tired of having my picture taken!</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH8_ERIIye56PplPL7boS_1lQFZ3UrCXzebMmDdLskVuu1Q4snD9j8MoSL0-4m2KV08kpKgJJnuH3HqtocyH3l_hbqbwBH0VSU0w1uNtuSrUIoRyWKJLwvyLnhpY-8-LgwlmlH8ScPX8/s1600/ocean+house.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH8_ERIIye56PplPL7boS_1lQFZ3UrCXzebMmDdLskVuu1Q4snD9j8MoSL0-4m2KV08kpKgJJnuH3HqtocyH3l_hbqbwBH0VSU0w1uNtuSrUIoRyWKJLwvyLnhpY-8-LgwlmlH8ScPX8/s400/ocean+house.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919607885884818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Watch Hill, RI...our favorite place to vacation. (The new <a href="http://www.oceanhouseri.com/">Ocean House</a> in the background--we WILL stay there one day...just not this summer thanks to the twins!)</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueWk5LONVodI6QQimg5VN_sMf1bE6vzr5uDCvWd0ao9-PTJ1vQ_ikQ0jrDoQMnSTGEWxDuJkqvoEpia16GXQmZHspL8kKR9uYEvfZC6audsbH-BVvJyNncjD34bH47IyhXX6mbCVLb0I/s1600/my+house.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueWk5LONVodI6QQimg5VN_sMf1bE6vzr5uDCvWd0ao9-PTJ1vQ_ikQ0jrDoQMnSTGEWxDuJkqvoEpia16GXQmZHspL8kKR9uYEvfZC6audsbH-BVvJyNncjD34bH47IyhXX6mbCVLb0I/s400/my+house.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919540998782834" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">I stalk this house in Watch Hill...it's my favorite house in the whole world... I literally dream about it!</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqk7x2eQpYFb0227U8a3hVyu3DJRI8Ge7bvdndvzoJsJnRUNtkMKGAE5DLxL-h_l7KkATBe6frf8FNjwiS1MZUlWEBsQacdOQGRGVqOHmZBHtbWknT4SU_3Um9BxWhZK-tzTdzgzExN0/s1600/my+house2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqk7x2eQpYFb0227U8a3hVyu3DJRI8Ge7bvdndvzoJsJnRUNtkMKGAE5DLxL-h_l7KkATBe6frf8FNjwiS1MZUlWEBsQacdOQGRGVqOHmZBHtbWknT4SU_3Um9BxWhZK-tzTdzgzExN0/s400/my+house2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919470375273906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">When we miraculously wake up one day and are independently wealthy, the first thing I'm doing is buying this house!</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nGLjKFP2bF9aU0obRdX4054FjbEPNhdupo6jj7z2aTwlmMcnPJSvz4mWtqJmhrVQzfwofizaJxBq_71Fup8DoxZEgCF0P1KwOF9szqdWbuEU5eNfOfxWAMJMXp_gUrP4KJOIRWd6Ot8/s1600/salt+spray+rose.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nGLjKFP2bF9aU0obRdX4054FjbEPNhdupo6jj7z2aTwlmMcnPJSvz4mWtqJmhrVQzfwofizaJxBq_71Fup8DoxZEgCF0P1KwOF9szqdWbuEU5eNfOfxWAMJMXp_gUrP4KJOIRWd6Ot8/s400/salt+spray+rose.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919350348681794" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Gotta love the salt spray roses!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sigh</span>...highlights from our trip two weekends ago. I want to go back!!!<br /></div></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5271958132356643695.post-60783883773931920612010-06-01T14:40:00.006-04:002010-06-01T15:00:38.895-04:00The Masque of the Black Tulip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ENJz5-tS33rq9WKaNx84qRr7jRklSfoDNmRbazv1KKEBfgRXGjwc8dkDvAYAjwqkSnPEyC9UW86WOeXdbpGaikHhr5r19xrf1Tnt5a5gxNZhFit73T4NGLZ1NiHgpe_oeXCB6oEpFnM/s1600/masque+of+the+black+tulip.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 264px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ENJz5-tS33rq9WKaNx84qRr7jRklSfoDNmRbazv1KKEBfgRXGjwc8dkDvAYAjwqkSnPEyC9UW86WOeXdbpGaikHhr5r19xrf1Tnt5a5gxNZhFit73T4NGLZ1NiHgpe_oeXCB6oEpFnM/s400/masque+of+the+black+tulip.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477877463062454946" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I finally settled in to do some non-baby-related reading this weekend. In the spirit of kicking off summer, I picked up <span style="font-style: italic;">The Masque of the Black Tulip</span>, which has been on my shelf for ages. It's the second in the <a href="http://www.laurenwillig.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Pink Carnation</span></a> series. These books are just so fun and frivolous...the perfect mix of a little mystery/intrigue and historical romance. You know, the perfect summer reading, right?<br /><br />While reading, I sort of fell in love with that little black and white tulip illustration on the cover, so I started nosing around to see what cool black tulip-themed items I could find...<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1e7yUfE23Uwj1SvsbFpM8qrThoQ3db9lSjhGTOmeT3yDl8-WLoRGzjLgNCEd2vLJvsOtOxXYQGzs6cuZ6ViAqb6oyyvEh1fHNxP5byVw7As0GZdd_jUexT5ADb793SuftiftMSq7ckNU/s1600/f28-black-tulip.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1e7yUfE23Uwj1SvsbFpM8qrThoQ3db9lSjhGTOmeT3yDl8-WLoRGzjLgNCEd2vLJvsOtOxXYQGzs6cuZ6ViAqb6oyyvEh1fHNxP5byVw7As0GZdd_jUexT5ADb793SuftiftMSq7ckNU/s400/f28-black-tulip.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477877414541933778" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">...like <a href="http://www.harborgallery.com/home.cfm?dir_cat=7045">this pretty little painting</a> (I think it would look really cool hung on a black accent wall in a hallway or bathroom)...<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqau42TfqOhdByBB3e9U_-tQ9Ud8NVC9v3ojskhNLhzDDWWeDRtWinyICsLByYDv1JTT6e49u-DiT_jQjSZehHpaJofYlbXAlasRq3wN7iOGMgLn-24ho4qSG6qNkizhlre1y9lNE_PM/s1600/py_promo_blacktulip3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqau42TfqOhdByBB3e9U_-tQ9Ud8NVC9v3ojskhNLhzDDWWeDRtWinyICsLByYDv1JTT6e49u-DiT_jQjSZehHpaJofYlbXAlasRq3wN7iOGMgLn-24ho4qSG6qNkizhlre1y9lNE_PM/s400/py_promo_blacktulip3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477877355903560274" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">...and <a href="http://www.pyrexlove.com/black-tulip-promotional-cinderella-oval-casserole-043/glassware/">this Pyrex casserole dish</a> (seriously--is there any pattern Pyrex didn't do?! Gotta love it!)...<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-p4VmkHZtWZglGDOxKYcXt1o5549n5teWRgjA51ySa2EGDLeaAmfWWvn5qDlBtNjWHD0g01GQrcoy4IB1EsTArlVIx-SOJ_pjoiVXFhrptPfM-i-Z-nJ7BnbICceneknnB9YFCq2jis/s1600/black+tulip+earrings.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 364px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-p4VmkHZtWZglGDOxKYcXt1o5549n5teWRgjA51ySa2EGDLeaAmfWWvn5qDlBtNjWHD0g01GQrcoy4IB1EsTArlVIx-SOJ_pjoiVXFhrptPfM-i-Z-nJ7BnbICceneknnB9YFCq2jis/s400/black+tulip+earrings.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477877296253519346" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">...or <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/20292171/tulip-vintage-lucite-earrings?ref=sr_gallery_6&ga_search_query=black+tulip&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=3&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">these sweet, dainty lucite earrings</a> (these totally look like something one of the heroines in the books would wear!)...<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3ySpf_js21snF4tQ_S9aAgu759PhvAHKS98Mi5yNqsPanhAYW_pKTYvAf5xOD8axwOTELldzw3dgQ4xjNwoGiqNVkiTwW_n4d4PxzwSIQUiiIRRf1Av_OCJwtIQaSAoaKU1Ol2LQYek/s1600/black+tulip+brooch.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3ySpf_js21snF4tQ_S9aAgu759PhvAHKS98Mi5yNqsPanhAYW_pKTYvAf5xOD8axwOTELldzw3dgQ4xjNwoGiqNVkiTwW_n4d4PxzwSIQUiiIRRf1Av_OCJwtIQaSAoaKU1Ol2LQYek/s400/black+tulip+brooch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477877245063636034" border="0" /></a><br />...and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/39194644/vintage-enamel-and-rhinestone-tulip-pin?ref=sr_gallery_11&ga_search_query=black+tulip&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=4&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">this enamel brooch</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I've now started on the next volume in the series, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Deception of the Emerald Ring</span>...I hope it doesn't make me want to shop for emeralds! YIKES!<br /></div>Rebekah @ Shell Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00296220238509453455noreply@blogger.com3