tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43168973865947494322012-02-01T16:09:54.197-05:00My husband & I live on 5.5 acres in what our families consider the "boondocks"! We call it heaven! It seems though, nothing is ever uneventful for us! Follow along with me as I share our stories of life, the pains and pleasures, on what we try to make our farm!Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.comBlogger5921100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-49080126262490506582012-02-01T10:26:00.000-05:002012-02-01T10:26:46.919-05:00

Okay, folks. Hubby and I have come to a decsion - I think - on the breed(s) of chickens we are going to get and how many. Remember, we are first timers in the backyard poultry neck of the woods and I have a slight fear of anything with feathers. My husband has some prior experience as he had an aunt that raised poultry when he was younger. And I guess he has the advanatge of not having any fear

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-10417610372392839492012-01-30T22:16:00.000-05:002012-01-30T22:16:45.504-05:00

This past weekend my family held our 2nd 'sorta' annual Pizza Cook-Off!Last year my mom was sick, so we canceled. And never got around to rescheduling. So, hence the 'sorta' annual! The rules are simple: each family has to bring a pizza. It cannot be store bought, however we do allow premade crusts if the cook chooses! Hubby and I chose to each make our own :) I did make the homemade crust for

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-40417955519989974622012-01-29T20:31:00.001-05:002012-01-30T09:10:18.158-05:00

Here is my newest favorite thing to make in the kitchen :) Homemade Creamsicles!!Since we are moving over to this traditional/real/whole foods diet [I can't decide what the proper term is], popsicles and creamsicles are just one more thing to make from scratch. They take hardly any effort and taste much better than the boxed ones. I purchased the Tovolo molds, which are BPA free. So for my first

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-55097357939899081142012-01-28T06:15:00.000-05:002012-01-28T06:15:00.159-05:00

I wanted to talk for a minute about one thing I have made a 100% leap on during this transition to eating whole, real foods. BTW, again, what do I call this? A 'diet', a new way of life? Lunacy? ;) Anyways, I was a total flavored coffee creamer junkie. Especially during the holidays when, starting in fall, the stores would stock their shelves with flavors like Pumpkin Spice and then move into

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-16678137211006179982012-01-27T10:40:00.000-05:002012-01-27T10:40:13.490-05:00

Here is a short list of things this week. All I have to say is TGIF...no, seriously, THANK.GOD.IT'S.FRIDAY! This has been the longest week ever!!! Seed Savers Exchange is offering 2012 Webinar Series on saving your own seeds. The first one was this past week, but I am sure you could get caught up! Have you checked the new USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map for your area? It is the first time it has

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-40555530399398812662012-01-25T21:44:00.000-05:002012-01-25T21:44:30.412-05:00

So I have mentioned some things I have already kicked/transitioned over to as I work my family into a Whole Foods 'diet'. (Or is it more appropriate to refer to it as a 'real foods' diet? I have no clue!) Now, to share some of the things I am working on kicking out the door for good! These are at the top of the list! Refined Sugar I would love to move to all natural sweeteners in the house, but

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-53014765267394182892012-01-24T20:11:00.000-05:002012-01-24T20:11:28.064-05:00

I can't say Thirty is too exciting. 16 was exciting...even 18 was. 21 was a memorable one, of course, if memory serves me correct ;)And heck, even 22 was! 30, ehhhh But don't my friends & family know me so well! My good friend Jen, who I don't get to see in person all too much, drove over an hour to make a surprise visit at my work...with 3 boys in tow! What a saint! And she brought me this,

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-78683157015844841982012-01-23T11:04:00.000-05:002012-01-23T11:04:26.228-05:00

This is an example of what I like to call 'Mom Syndrome' You are probably looking at these photos thinking 'why did she post the same pictures over and over again?' When, in fact, each picture is different.  When the pictures are of your kid, they all look cute. How could you choose just one?The side stare? Or the dead on stare?And this, my friends, is how those professional picture

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-12063675819798697302012-01-22T20:26:00.000-05:002012-01-22T20:26:30.310-05:00

This is one tough kid! And no, I don't say that because he is decked out in camo, just like is father. By pure coincidence too...although, when 90% of his wardrobe is camo, I am not sure how much it can be considered coincidence! This 10 and half month old is battling his first ear infection. And other than the green boogers and waking me up every other hour of the night, you'd never know :) 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-10386238913825084282012-01-21T16:22:00.001-05:002012-01-21T16:22:52.902-05:00

Things I love from the past week! **** Iron Chef Michael Symon posted this week on his facbook page about how he thinks children's menus are one of lifes worst inventions. Following up on that, Greenhouse Tavern Chef Jonathon Sawyer's wife, Amelia, wrote this blog post. KUDOS! What are your thoughts on this? I can't wait to try this 20 minute homemade enchilada sauce! It's hard to find a

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-7536295819492569932012-01-19T14:45:00.001-05:002012-01-19T14:55:29.223-05:00

As I slowly learn more and more about what us Americans consider food, I throw up in my mouth a tad, and then become horrified at what used to be in my cupboards :) I know, I lay it all out there, no holds bar! Seriously though, it's amazing what so many people don't know. And there is so much info out there to sort through and comprehend that it can be overwhelming. So, here and there, I

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-31552154473908247132012-01-17T21:25:00.003-05:002012-01-17T21:46:00.815-05:00

So I am sure we've all heard by now about Paula Deen being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. I have read lots of opinions on this as it's swirling the web. Honestly, I think Paula says it best herself in the clip below - you have to be responsible for yourself. C'mon people! At the end of the day, if every meal you cook is something off one of her shows or out of one of her books, of course you

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-56994550967392829952012-01-16T09:05:00.000-05:002012-01-16T09:05:57.771-05:00

I kinda just threw this one together over the weekend and it turned out a success! Give it a try. Don't be intimidated by the length of this recipe. A lot of it is just tid bits of info. The soup is super easy to put together! Beef, Mushroom & Barley Soup 1# ground beef 8 oz. button mushrooms, sliced 1 cup barley* 2 large leeks, sliced 1 carrot, sliced or diced ;) 1 garlic clove, diced 4 cups

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-83689061607025571102012-01-13T01:15:00.001-05:002012-01-13T01:15:01.709-05:00

Handmade Pay it Forward has been floating around on Facebook and I thought it would be a nice idea to bring it to the blogosphere! Handmade Pay it Forward 2012 I promise to make something handmade for the first five people who comment.  If you are one of the first five, you must, in turn, post this and make something for the first five who comment on your blog post. Your Pay it Forward must be

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-73413004874956628412012-01-12T00:06:00.002-05:002012-01-12T08:54:01.738-05:00

Do you practice your planting by phases of the moon? Photo Credit Another reason to Know your Farmer, Know your Food ... or grow your own! If you are looking to make a change away from processed foods, to a 'real food' diet, this is a great read for beginners! Diana has the most amazing equine art! I want one of each, please :) Anyone follow any of these weather proverbs? I stumbled across

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-86987610873736813242012-01-11T08:29:00.000-05:002012-01-11T08:29:50.598-05:00

This babe turned 10 months on Monday. 10 MONTHS! How did this happen so fast? He is daddy's little shadow whenever possible - so come Spring time when we can get back outside, Daddy is going to have his hands full :) And somehow, I seem to think, Daddy is looking forward to it :) *Disclaimer: My Aunt bought the babe his first BB gun [pictured here] when he was a MONTH old. It's an official

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-68213819344869846032012-01-10T09:06:00.000-05:002012-01-10T09:06:27.569-05:00

Is anyone else overwhelmed with the decisions to be made for your 2012 garden?Could these seed catalogs give us anymore choices?The tomatos engulf me in anxiety and the melons - ah! How am I suppose to choose just one...or two? Hubby dug up these Atomic Red Carrots the other day from this past seasons 'failed' carrot patch! Ok, maybe that is a tad dramatic, but you know what I mean! Try to

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-58515155830391453682012-01-09T07:34:00.001-05:002012-01-09T08:35:00.794-05:00

I mentioned yesterday that I needed to get a tad caught up on my Dark Days meals since I missed the past two weeks :0 So, last night for dinner, Allen made a Venison Pot Roast. I was a tad concerned I would go to bed hungry as his track record cooking Venison isn't exactly up there with Martha & Julia. But, I went at it with an open mind...and empty fork...and honestly, it wasn't too bad. After

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-26279119551019550582012-01-08T17:08:00.000-05:002012-01-08T17:08:07.471-05:00

Finally, I am back with a Dark Days Challenge post after a 2 week hiatus because of the craziness of the holidays, a sick household and because it totally slipped my mind. And I am not going to lie - I feel like a total cheater with this meal because it couldn't be easier! But, to make up for it, hubby is roasting a venison steak for dinner, which I will post about soon! So, what we have here

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-15043185736295841902012-01-07T08:08:00.000-05:002012-01-07T08:08:07.292-05:00

Great article on your guide to Fats & Oils! One of my favorite markets to visit makes The Washington Post! Sarah Andrew is an awesome equine photographer and this is a wonderful article she did on the rehab of Zodiac - a horse taken in by Days End Farm Horse Rescue in MD. I followed along also on DEFHR's facebook page - what an awesome outcome for Zodiac!! I read this post from Kim at Life in

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-61782738110807140642012-01-05T21:23:00.000-05:002012-01-05T21:23:12.636-05:00

...take me home

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-91849229088919557372012-01-04T09:09:00.000-05:002012-01-04T09:09:01.756-05:00

This recipe is a favorite at our place and it tends to make the dinner plate rounds every other week or so. It is so easy to whip up and taste like you have been working on it all day :) Win-Win, right? Pork Chops in a Cream Caper Sauce Ingredients Extra Virgin Olive OilUnsalted Butter8 oz button mushrooms, diced however you like4 boneless pork chops 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream3/4 cup dry white

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-76312637887109447902012-01-03T10:11:00.000-05:002012-01-03T10:11:41.929-05:00

Just a few quick tid-bits I wanted to share today in regards to FOOD! I am behind on my Dark Days Challenge! With the holidays I didn't get in a meal for the week that was SOLE - sustainable, organic, local & ethical. Some came very close (like my chicken noodle soup) but then I threw in something like the noddles that canceled it out! Anyways, I am back on the band wagon this week and working

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-69917190956399922642012-01-02T12:06:00.000-05:002012-01-02T12:06:07.201-05:00

This morning the snow finally started falling! I am not sure who was happier; the horses or the husband!! The horses have been dying to get out for a good romp. They have been out here and there over the past 2 weeks, but not very long as the pastures have just been a complete swamp to the point where they were sinking as they stood!  Notice Apollo on the left, other side of the fence, in

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-37868188785448373302011-12-31T10:02:00.001-05:002011-12-31T10:06:35.173-05:00

January Photo Credit: aubrey adair photographyFebruary Photo Credit: Kellie Milano

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-63593669003373896342011-12-30T12:12:00.001-05:002011-12-30T12:12:00.308-05:00

I've been writing this blog for two and half years now. According to stats, here are the top 5 most popular posts to date! #5 - Dark Days Challenege: Week #1  - this is a fairly new post, but since it is part of a challenge, I suspect it receives a lot of views from others also partaking in the challenge. #4 - Sneek Peek: Maternity Photo Shoot - this post receives a lot of readers google

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-10695026434119030372011-12-29T21:52:00.000-05:002011-12-29T21:52:17.831-05:00

Hi Folks! I am on an unexpected holiday hiatus of sorts! Between catching the flu [me] and a virus [the pc], my blogging time has been short. A few things I have read though, in the past few days, that I wanted to share if you haven't seen them already. And who hasn't had their mailbox bombed with seed catalogs?! There isn't enough time in the day for me to go through all them, nor do I have 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-5842385922243335202011-12-27T09:50:00.000-05:002011-12-27T09:50:54.944-05:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays! Ours consisted of a nasty stomach flu - what joy! But, we did manage to catch a few photos. Christmas morning gifts from Santa  All I have to do is teach him to bring that foot forward and I think I have a rider on my hands :) Christmas Eve with Cousin Benny & Santa! 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-91076437193092479412011-12-23T11:02:00.000-05:002011-12-23T11:02:47.849-05:00

Wishing Everyone a Wonderful Holiday!

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-70086068135981560532011-12-22T14:08:00.000-05:002011-12-22T14:08:35.573-05:00

This reminds me of a husband I know...... ;) Check out this gallery on babble.com to see if there is a husband you know.

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-54361930347767645032011-12-21T09:05:00.001-05:002011-12-21T09:08:20.662-05:00

I have never much been a fan of Chicken Noodle Soup. I know, I know. How is this possible? Just like how I am not much a fan of chocolate. *gasp* In any event, for whatever reason, I decided I needed to make Chicken Noodle Soup. I have been feeling like I am coming down with something and with Christmas just a mere 5 days away, who wants to be sick! Everyone knows all about the amazing benefits

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-88488309455827543472011-12-20T13:27:00.000-05:002011-12-20T13:27:40.511-05:00

Over the weekend, there was some nice looking Turnips at a local farmer's market I visited. I have been curious about Turnips since I can't recall the last time I ate one. I had read somewhere that you want a small Turnip, around the size of a ping-pong ball, versus a larger one. Smaller ones are supposed to be 'sweeter'. Once they get larger in size, they taste more tart. And, surprisingly

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-8822514918024343992011-12-19T08:57:00.000-05:002011-12-19T08:57:58.130-05:00

This is one kid who wasn't afraid of Santa. In fact, he tried to put his fingers in Santa's mouth, rip off his glasses and poke his eye..... He's been a very good boy this year :) 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-43799765590148637522011-12-18T07:28:00.000-05:002011-12-18T07:28:09.455-05:00

Thisi s my 3rd week of the Dark Days Challenge. The focus of this meal for me was E.A.S.Y! There is so much hustle and bustle going on right now that I didn't have much time to think & prepare for this meal. It kinda felt like cheating, but the more I thought about it, instead of feeling like cheating [since it was too easy], I think it just goes to show that eating local is much more easier

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-3868792858637888972011-12-15T11:37:00.001-05:002011-12-15T11:37:54.579-05:00

Grandpa & my niece, Kelseysee any resemblance? Happy Birthday to my Grandpa!29 years young today!

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-5258349878847041842011-12-14T10:49:00.003-05:002011-12-14T10:50:25.690-05:00

a turkey and some mistletoe.... help to make the season bright!

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-75441204041615370482011-12-13T10:10:00.000-05:002011-12-13T10:10:20.068-05:00

....of Christmas, my true love gave to me.....Anxiety? Did you know there are 12 days until Christmas? And I am in total anxiety because I have NOTHING done! Where does the time go. I still have the majority of my shopping to do and I have nothing baked yet! This is very unlike me. Does this mean I am offically an adult since the holiday seems to be more work than excitment now? I still have

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-12236101711930790102011-12-11T15:50:00.000-05:002011-12-11T15:50:09.811-05:00

Today I made the meal for week 2 of the Dark Days Challenge. I kind of feeling like I cheated almost since it was so easy, but I have good reason. And I should also note that I still am not finding this overall challenge as easy as I thought! I think of things I could make, but once I get into ingredients required, there is always something that disqualifies the recipe! For this week, I made

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-38138831892836705472011-12-09T09:26:00.001-05:002011-12-09T09:32:24.713-05:00

Allow me to fill you in on my last 2 days. I guess it was getting pretty dull around here with no chaotic tales from the farm. So, let me change that for you right.now! Wednesday morning we discovered that somehow [please don't ask] my husband locked every key we have for our back garage, in the garage!! At 6:30 in the morning, this is not a welcoming revelation. Especially when one of those key

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-85729390262702902962011-12-07T10:59:00.000-05:002011-12-07T10:59:20.335-05:00

Thank you to the blog Sky Minded & Ever Growing; I was granted my second Liebster Blog Award!! "Liebster" is a German word meaning dear, sweet, kind, nice, good, beloved, lovely, kindly, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing, and welcome. What a gift to be awarded with such kindness! The Liebster is a way to show a little Blog Love to bloggers who currently have less than 200 followers. The

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-85545110049746469432011-12-06T09:54:00.002-05:002011-12-06T09:57:18.852-05:00

There are two kinds of people in this world - in my opinion.Those who would do for an animal as they would do for themselves...and those who suck! I am serious. In the past week, I have heard more stories about animal abuse and have received more emails about people needing to off load their horses "like yesterday" than I care to think about. I don't want to get into too much detail, but one

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-19981087801082138562011-12-05T01:46:00.003-05:002011-12-06T11:17:03.312-05:00

Yesterday I prepared my first meal for the Dark Days Challenge. If you aren't familiar,  you can read more about it here. But, in a nutshell, it means I have accepted the challenge to prepare at least one meal a week from Nov.27 through March 31 that is a SOLE meal - sustainable, organic, local and ethical. I made oven baked grass fed beef patties, roasted beets and roasted purple potatos! I

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-63693823999197006322011-12-04T01:42:00.001-05:002011-12-04T01:42:00.630-05:00

Here are some things I have happened upon lately that I thought were worth sharing! Wee Folk Art - check them out! Salted Caramel Sauce - *Swoon* I see a batch of this in my near future! 7 Foods You Should Never Eat - who hasn't read this article yet! I am sad about the 'maters. Canned marinara sauce is terrible. I think I found an Xmas gift for Hubby! Remember we grew Portabella's in the

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-57780149165381449572011-12-03T01:22:00.000-05:002011-12-03T01:22:01.044-05:00

This post probably would have been more helpful last week, when you were wondering what to do with all your Turkey Day leftovers! But it is the holidays, which means, you probably might see Turkey and Cranberries grace your table again sooner rather than later. My little guy thoroughly enjoyed Turkey Day dinner! Even the cranberries!So, for the next two days for one of his meals, he was able

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-53752109962657942482011-12-02T08:45:00.000-05:002011-12-02T08:45:29.778-05:00

No doubt Winter is here. Maybe not according to the calendar and solstice, but it's here. When theb barn roof is covered in frost, winter is here. There are lots of reasons I like Winter though - one of them being the gorgeous sunrises we see at our place. I snapped this photo with my cell this morning on the way to work. Truly, the picture doesn't even do the scene justice! Happy Friday!!

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-30748404598997358362011-11-30T01:51:00.003-05:002011-11-30T09:33:11.544-05:00

This week is gun season for the deer hunters. My husband is a deer hunter. I will leave it at that. I asked him if he realized that the text he sent me this week, and then this photo, while he was hunting, was giving me blog material. He wasn't thrilled because he thought I would rip on him for his lack of *ahem*, deer caught! (Note: I realize the proper term is 'killed', not 'caught', but I

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-80458403601877055802011-11-29T01:56:00.000-05:002011-11-29T01:56:00.317-05:00

to my Magical Unicorn, Apollo :) It has been 6 years since I adopted Apollo - 6 years! My gosh does time fly!6 years, 3 more horses, a farm & a baby ... to be exact. But Apollo, I love you just the same! I love you more! And I am so glad you have been here with me through all of it. I couldn't ask for a better mane to bury my thoughts and dreams into. Here are some of my favorite pictures from

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-63850193477374047862011-11-28T08:51:00.000-05:002011-11-28T08:51:44.201-05:00

...the last nice days! The horses made sure to make the most out of what was probably the last nice days of 2012 -- weather-wise, that is -- over the weekend! 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-14525644455101657452011-11-27T09:58:00.000-05:002011-11-27T09:58:25.293-05:00

Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.  ~Larry Wilde, The Merry Book of Christmas

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-25241913802893981622011-11-26T02:35:00.000-05:002011-11-26T02:35:00.614-05:00

Yesterday was our annual tree hunt. It is tradition every year to go the day after Thanksgiving. Seeing as it was in the 60's, it felt a little odd, but none the less. And it was the babe's very first!! Buying a real Christmas tree can be a hefty cost when you are on a tight budget :) And we just so happened to discover a place 15 minutes from our house this year that was selling all their trees

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-84083796346745265832011-11-25T01:55:00.004-05:002011-11-28T09:44:19.469-05:00

Are you filled from turkey and stuffing and potato's and cranberry sauce..... Do you still have half a turkey sitting in your fridge? Is your stomach turning at the thought of having to eat one more morsel of it? I am not one particularly fond of poultry leftovers. It tastes funky to me most of the time. But, I was determined to make use of our leftover turkey...and stuffing...and you get the

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-50493603259269181872011-11-24T03:27:00.000-05:002011-11-24T03:27:00.515-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. This year, I have so much to be thankful for. It would be silly of me to try and even list it all out, but most importantly, this year, I am so thankful for meeting my son! Truly, it is weird to think I was ever without him! One thing that did strike a chord with me only just a few weeks ago...One of my sisters and I were at business lunch

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-9171256400532897802011-11-23T01:58:00.000-05:002011-11-23T01:58:00.620-05:00

Pumpkin Pie from scratch couldn't be easier. Sure, it takes a little more time, but if you plan accordingly, you'll be much happier you did it this way! I made my pie the day before I served my turkey dinner. Hubby was admittedly leary since this pie didn't take on the natural dark tone of the store bought pumpkin pie. I was too - but not admittedly :) I am happy to say - it was EVEN BETTER

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-34212460354780843602011-11-22T01:38:00.002-05:002011-11-22T01:38:00.223-05:00

Some of the side dishes that I served at my Thanksgiving dinner really need to mentioning - the mashed potatos, the corn (that I forgot!), the mashed sweet potatos... They are pretty self explanatory! There are a few dishes though, that I wanted to share. First, the stuffing - or dressing - whichever you prefer to call it. I imagine this a huge staple of a turkey dinner. I, for one, was never

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-9036973344765978072011-11-21T09:36:00.000-05:002011-11-21T09:36:02.534-05:00

My first Thanksgiving dinner was a success! There were a few bumps along the way, which I'll recap, but all in all, no complaints! Today, I want to showcase the bird and the most important part of the whole meal - the gravy! I chose to do a dry brine on my bird. The simpler the method, the better, I think. I also thought it would be neat to do a 'traditional' liquid brine, but for starters, I

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-16211476107283499012011-11-20T11:44:00.000-05:002011-11-20T11:44:15.053-05:00

TURKEY! 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-51765982143014770492011-11-19T01:45:00.001-05:002011-11-19T01:45:00.094-05:00

Tomorrow is my big debut....my first Thanksgiving dinner for my tiny little fam!I have been researching and preparing all week for this dinner. The turkey has been in the fridge, in a dry brine, since Thursday. The Pumpkin Pie dough and Challah bread for my stuffing started Friday night. And, as you read this Saturday, I am making more preparations and picking up last minute things at the local

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-26774014833045665872011-11-18T01:00:00.021-05:002012-01-04T09:14:47.568-05:00

Oh the places we go with a Banana! I, for one, love them. So I usually help myself to a few tastings :) At 8 months, we have now done a few things with a Banana. Banana [& Milk] PureeThe most obvious, is a banana puree. I let them get very ripe. Like, black and you think it is trash ripe. If you worry about fruit flies, throw it in the fridge. Once they are ripe enough for my liking, I throw it

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-59498187200783765772011-11-17T01:17:00.000-05:002011-11-17T01:17:00.226-05:00

Other people are right. These donut pans are addicting! Donuts are so easy to whip up & bake and the options are endless. I was having some company over and in my chaotic state to get the house cleaned, baby fed, horses taken care of etc etc...I was able to whip out a few batches of these bad boys! I used Frieda's recipe for Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, and then added my own spin with a Kahula

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-55184419388695423202011-11-16T04:28:00.000-05:002011-11-16T04:28:01.210-05:00

This is what we do in our [rare] spare time. It's purely for our own amusement. ... and more fun now that the babe can sit up on his own!   You might not be able to tell, but in this picture below, he is giving us the signal to "Loop 'er around again, Dad!"

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-77548378357498156332011-11-15T00:17:00.000-05:002011-11-15T00:17:00.768-05:00

This year I have decided to finally start a tradition, in my own home, to make a Thanksgiving Dinner for my family. When I was younger, my mom always did this for our immediate family, if I remember correctly, the day before Thanksgiving. Since I am not the host of Thanksgiving dinner for either my side of the family, or my husbands, I decided to start my own tradition at my house. I've been

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-59452921125158952652011-11-14T08:22:00.000-05:002011-11-14T08:22:46.472-05:00

This past weekend I held a Holistic Healing Arts Reiki Clinic at my place. My friend, Karen, is a certified equine massage therapist and reiki master. She was in town and offered to do the clinic if I would be willing to host. Of course I was game for this! And so was my Gypsy girl, who served as our demo horse for the clinic. For those of you who are horse people, I follow a lot of Linda

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-62994293722240368072011-11-12T01:47:00.003-05:002011-11-14T13:30:55.992-05:00

I am sure it comes as no surprise that as I add toys to my sons 'collection', when I can, I choose green and eco-friendly products. Because, if for no other reason, then simply, why not?! The holidays will be here before you know it. If you have a little one to buy for and are looking for an eco-friendly or green gift to give, I thought I could offer a few suggestions. These are toys my sons has

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-18458957024244798252011-11-11T01:34:00.000-05:002011-11-11T01:34:01.379-05:00

Big Fat Lies [about fats] from Real Food Freaksthis links to part 2 of the series, so make sure you click through to read part 1 too!Homemade Vanilla Waffers from Weelicious! Do It Yourself Herbal Cough & Cold Syrup Backyard Farming is hosting an Essential Oils Webinar!! Prepare yourselves! Mother Earth News is hosting National Homesteading Education Month  - coming September 2012! Have a

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-57625546801546308412011-11-10T11:18:00.000-05:002011-11-10T11:18:10.157-05:00

I have signed up for the Dark Days of winter eat local Challenge from Urban Hennery!From Sunday, November 27 through Saturday, March 31, anywho who signs up for the challenge will have to commit to making one meal a week that is a 'SOLE' meal...meaning sustainable, organic, local and ethical. I know I am not the best at keeping with a 'schedule' for things of this nature - my sporadic Apple

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-14133245483619199092011-11-09T08:14:00.000-05:002011-11-09T08:14:35.677-05:00

There are a few things one can assume when viewing this cell cam picture I snapped last 'night'....at probably 5:45 pm-ish Daylight Savings time suxs The horses need hay The horses needed hay badly, thus we were picking up on a Tuesday evening after work (this is usually something reserved for a Saturday!) The horses needed hay badly because my hay guy sold out on me...even though my hubby told

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-33779078095684880182011-11-08T09:24:00.002-05:002011-11-14T21:08:24.914-05:00

Ah - the carrot.The vegetable that beta-carotene was named after! Did your mother ever tell you to eat them so you can see better? No vegetable even comes close to comparing with a carrot when it comes to beta-carotene.A study from Harvard University suggests that people who eat at least 5 carrots a week are less likely to suffer a stroke than those who eat one carrot a month. I found that fact

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-78771592107988438472011-11-07T09:39:00.000-05:002011-11-07T09:39:27.088-05:00

Since I have made the conscious effort to eat more real food, I have learned so much. It's amazing. Eating more real food and eating locally and seasonally as much as possible - who would have thought. I know some people think this costs more money, and yes, in some ways it can. Especially at first. But you also have to learn how to be frugal with what you have to make the most of it. I have

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-18552324180656291842011-11-03T01:29:00.003-04:002011-11-07T21:08:25.197-05:00

Who doesn't like apples, right?And, applesauce is so versatile, it makes a great option for baby food. There is a simple way to whip up a quick one or two batch serving, but this is how you would make apple sauce in bulk. For this particular set of photos, I had about 30# of apples and it took a stock pot and dutch oven to cook them all down in. My end result was 3 pints and 3 quarts canned. And

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-1420564351646119802011-11-02T02:19:00.000-04:002011-11-02T02:19:00.395-04:00

This past Saturday morning, while the East Coast was being pummeled by a snowstorm, we have our first visit from Jack Frost! Here are a few early morning photos I snapped. These are SOOTC - straight out of the camera... The Gerainiums Sage Zinnia's The Orchard 

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-54608006603939899862011-11-01T08:53:00.000-04:002011-11-01T08:53:36.015-04:00

My baby's first Halloween is over! *tear* He went as a Lollipop Kid from the Wizard of Oz. My camera was not cooperating so I didn't get the greatest pictures :/These two are the most decent ones I could come up with! I hope everyone had a wonderfully spooky Halloween!

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-61401678339168044552011-10-31T01:58:00.002-04:002011-10-31T08:32:34.135-04:00

It's All Hallow's Eve!It's our most favorite holiday of the year! Or so he is learning... He is considering liking it... Pumpkins are carved...compliments of hubby :) He's a natural :)HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-58524025128047511392011-10-30T01:25:00.000-04:002011-10-30T01:25:00.788-04:00

Have you heard about the Just Label It! Campaign?I just found out about this over at The Mountain Rose Herb Blog. And I think it is a FANTASTIC idea! Trying to read labels and decipher what the ingredients are anymore is taxing, no? What a nightmare.And with all the advertising and marketing ploys out there, it just makes things worse! Check out this post from The Healthy Home Economist - what

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-90467704965256194402011-10-29T01:49:00.000-04:002011-10-29T01:49:00.074-04:00

Check out some of the neat things I have stumbled upon this past week! Lavender Oil on burns! I love Ham & Bean soup -- this one sounds like a must try! Rosemary & Garlic Butter - yes please!! If you follow a gazillion blogs like me, you know how difficult it is to remember where to go for something you have read in the past...like, say, a recipe! Check out Food Blog Search - so neat! Type in

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-59413448564056267822011-10-28T01:03:00.000-04:002011-10-28T01:03:00.439-04:00

I had a few messages from readers on my Making Sauerkraut post from earlier this week in regards to the 'mold situation'! I thought I would try and shed some light on this disgusting matter since, lets face it, even my husband is not convinced and refuses to eat the Sauerkraut! I too was skeptical. My first try at naturally fermented foods were a batch of pickles this summer. Initially, the

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-85935693832888816482011-10-27T08:31:00.000-04:002011-10-27T08:31:25.542-04:00

Ok, maybe not 101! But I had received an email from a friend awhile back about uses for Vodka...other than to have a good time! I was intrigued and since I try to be green and do without chemicals whenever possible, I tucked a few of these ideas away. Check it out and see if you do or have heard of any of these. ***** 1. To remove a bandage painlessly, saturate the bandage with vodka - it

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-17517100456108718882011-10-26T01:24:00.002-04:002011-10-26T08:35:17.392-04:00

Though this is a Canandian commercial, the same comcept applies here in the US. Another great eye opener.

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-37044118165416011412011-10-25T01:46:00.001-04:002011-10-25T11:31:40.602-04:00

This is so good! I came up with it after having a salad at a restaurant that was similar. It is also great cold, the next day, as leftovers for lunch! Ingredients 1/2# uncooked spaghetti noodles1/2 cup mandarin oranges1/4 cup blue cheeseFor Dressing (courtsey of Tyler Florence)3 tbsp soy sauce2 tbsp rice wine vinegar1 tbsp honey1 teaspoon sesame oil Directions Cook your noodles in salted,

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-33427741603536926212011-10-24T10:16:00.004-04:002011-11-01T16:01:50.836-04:00

I can finally scratch something off my wanting to try list - making Sauerkraut! It really was fairly easy and next year I will be sure to make more! I used 3 heads of cabbage from  my garden. I believe it was the Late Flat Dutch Cabbage. I chopped it up and then threw it into a crock. I then added about 3tbsp of Kosher Salt. Then, and this I couldn't comprehend until I did it, you just mix the

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-14054634186877070562011-10-23T20:45:00.000-04:002011-10-23T20:45:59.436-04:00

Oh boy! My paternal grandmother, she is quite the character! Today was my niece's christening so naturally, my family was gathered at a church to witness the holy dunking. (Forewarning - if you are deeply religious this post may may offend you) As the priest was trying to get the hoopla going (there were 2 other families there as well) my 2 yr old niece and almost 3 year old nephew were all wound

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-26422808782361216192011-10-22T09:12:00.000-04:002011-10-22T09:12:04.484-04:00

It feels like forever since I've posted. I've been busy, what can I say! What's new, right? Anyways, this may be a rambling of sorts, but I have lots on my mind about Real Food. What comes to your mind when you hear the term 'Real Food'?Hippies? Weirdo's? Health Freaks? Progressives? Tell me. I am interested to know. With the popularity gaining once again in farmers markets and local food, maybe

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-6482062507789226462011-10-19T08:52:00.000-04:002011-10-19T08:52:43.613-04:00

It's no secret when I need time to destress from the realities of life, I go into my barn :)Something about burrying yourself in the mane of the horse is so intoxicating.....Unless you don't care for the smell of a horse, but then, how weird would that be! Who doesn't love the smell of a horse - I digress..... These horses, I am so lucky to have them in my life. In my backyard. I am so lucky

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-64059830133577814512011-10-17T09:49:00.000-04:002011-10-17T09:49:02.257-04:00

Today is a Monday - so no further explanation is needed! The weather is chilling down here and it is the perfect reason, as if a reason is ever needed, to make.this.soup! French Onion Soup

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-15173717766187252962011-10-16T11:02:00.000-04:002011-10-16T11:02:47.231-04:00

I am winding down my weekend (bringing home a 'new' car and our fall hayride) by chilling in front of the fireplace this morning! I am happening upon all kinds of cool things so I thought I would share! Check out this cool hostess gift idea from Family Bites! Interesting things to note about growing Ginseng from Greenish Thumb! I have heard this - local 'lore' says we have it growing in the

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-58738053984302422042011-10-15T03:55:00.000-04:002011-10-15T03:55:00.085-04:00

This is a Mango. It is the National Fruit of India. And it is packed with tons of Vitamins, one of which, is Vitamin C. And did you know that fruits and veggies packed with Vitamin C help your baby absorb more Iron? And since iron intake is such a biggie for young ones, Mango is a great fruit to serve when you are serving an iron rich meal like red meat! Of course, as the color would suggest

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-1139742793139010232011-10-14T07:45:00.000-04:002011-10-14T08:17:51.044-04:00

She is currently 7...and she says the darndest things.Don't they all? I'll soon find out for myself with my little one. But all I know is, when I have my niece with me, she is sure to say something that inevitably has me laughing if not from anything else, then from sheer horror!! Let me back up by telling you it was probably 2 years ago when she was 5-ish. We were in Wal-mart. (think 'people

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-15434846851700606652011-10-13T01:18:00.003-04:002011-10-13T08:24:00.660-04:00

Tis' the season - so we've been doing lots of Pumpkin over here! And I am pretty sure, the Babe LOVES.PUMPKIN! Yahoo! For Pumpkin, you want to purchase small Pumpkins. They usually go by the name of 'Pie' or 'Sugar' Pumpkins. Cut them in half, scoop out the guts, and then place them inside half down on a baking sheet. (Save the seeds for roasting Pumpkin seeds as a snack...or to throw in your

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-73748063585970989342011-10-12T01:03:00.003-04:002011-10-12T08:14:31.184-04:00

Welcome to Week 7 of the Apple Harvest Party! Please Join in and share your recipe that includes Apples...or Pears or Quince!We are now harvesting our Quince so I am going to see if I can come up with something to share, Quince-related, for next week!  In the mean time, this week I am sharing something so simple, it shouldn't really be a 'recipe', but it is SO good! Join in below by entering

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-23508737183587946772011-10-11T08:46:00.000-04:002011-10-11T08:46:54.241-04:00

Look at this cute dumpling! Poor Kid is NOT amused! Contrary to what his father says, Camo might NOT be his favorite color?Or maybe it's that cute hat :)

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-41485852360476782602011-10-10T10:46:00.000-04:002011-10-10T10:46:48.005-04:00

We are approaching Mid-October and we're over knee high in apples!More apples than I can sell and more than I know what to do with. We are also knee deep in car negotiations - ugh - this must be one of my least favorites things to do!! Anyways, back to the apples. I think I'll try my hand at some homemade [small batch] cider and some homemade apple juice. We'll see how it goes; I will let you

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-25945943004986519962011-10-08T01:53:00.000-04:002011-10-08T01:53:00.527-04:00

Wow! Check out this video courtsey of Chipotle! I need not say more.

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-67444325229819298602011-10-07T01:07:00.000-04:002011-10-07T01:07:00.257-04:00

Pea Puree Peas were the first 'solid' food my baby had. I can't say he was the #1 fan for Peas, but he eats them none the less! The first thing my sitter said to me when she saw them was 'WOW, look at how green they are!', and she is right! This isn't the best photo of Jarred Baby Food, but you can clearly see the dull, drabby [gag me] color of peas in a jar of store bougt baby food. Hardly

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-1180667509320244852011-10-06T01:49:00.000-04:002011-10-06T01:49:00.394-04:00

In all my reading and research on homemade baby food, there are a few books that I continue to go back to as they were great references and motivators for me. real food for mother and baby, by Nina Planck, is my absolute favorite. I just enjoyed her outlook as a whole. Actually, she never even made puree's for her baby. It's a great read and I highly recommend it. She very much follows the 'Go

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-67219933008123506692011-10-05T09:18:00.000-04:002011-10-05T09:18:46.453-04:00

It is Week 5 for the Apple Harvest Party...and amazingly, I have a recipe to share this week :)So jump in, join in below with your post to share on what you do with Apples!! Apple DoughnutsSlightly Adapted from Cookingwithmykid.com 1 Cup Whole Wheat Flour3/4 tsp baking powder3/4 tsp baking sodapinch of salt1 egg, slightly beaten6 oz homemade yogurtdash of vanilla extract1 tbsp coconut

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-50567398892575481492011-10-04T09:00:00.000-04:002011-10-04T09:00:02.827-04:00

I suppose we'll be saying 'buh-bye' to the flowers soon as we're now enjoying a chill in the air. This was my Zinna patch this year. I love Zinna's.These are Persian Carpet Zinna's from Bakers Creek. They are described as a "stunning....brilliant heirloom..." They are pretty, but I can't say they took my breath away! I was expecting BIG Zinna's. I suppose if I would have paid more attention to

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-83309765519898053102011-10-03T01:47:00.000-04:002011-10-03T01:47:00.617-04:00

Welcome October! My most favorite month of the year!! The Massive Sunflowers have bowed their heads for the season and the orchard is heavy with fruit.The winds have shifted and you can smell chimney's puffing in the air.Roasting root veggies and pumpkin pies intoxicate the kitchen. Hot Cider anyone?

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-40632651923939236882011-10-01T01:19:00.002-04:002011-10-01T01:19:00.128-04:00

Peach Puree The Babe had his first taste of Peach Puree in the 6 month range. He likes them. And he especially likes the puree a tad chilled when those big, bad teeth are trying to poke through. I used, I think, Coral Star and Glowing Star varieties. I am not sure that matters much, but they were yellow fleshed peaches. I hear the white fleshed ones are even sweeter, but these were what the

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-50758352735024530252011-09-30T01:37:00.007-04:002011-09-30T07:59:28.391-04:00

As you may have noticed, I have started a new tab at the top of my blog regarding Homemade Baby Food. This is something I am very passionate about. I have done a lot of research and reading on making my own 'baby food'. Though a lot of the recipes are simple, I know the hundreds of questions that can mill around in the head of a mom considering this, so I wanted to share what I have done, and

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-60388916609059991822011-09-29T10:26:00.002-04:002011-09-29T10:30:18.984-04:00

Horse & Boredom can be a bad mix! And, keeping it real, my horses are probably bored right now. My time is sparse with the baby and apple orchard. Throw in a few rainy days where they have to stay in the barn and it's the perfect recipe for boredom! And I have this horse named Apollo. I think I've mentioned him before :) If there is one horse who cannot tolerate boredom, it would be him. His

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4316897386594749432.post-67468340619001545882011-09-28T09:28:00.000-04:002011-09-28T09:28:11.005-04:00

Gosh - has it really been a week again already!And once again, here I am, hosting a blog carnival, and I don't have anything to contribute!I made an honest effort - I had the apples diced up and ready to go.....but then, I never finished and made anything with them! Tonight...tonight I will :) What was I thinking trying to have a new apple recipe on a specific day each week during one of our

Allison at Novice Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09069117326093443006noreply@blogger.com1