Bluegrass has always been a love of ours, but we've been unable to get to any good festivals or shows this year-- that is, until last night! We attended the 9th annual Northland Ballroom Bluegrass Festival. Here's a peak at what we heard.
That clip is Art Stevenson and High Water, and they're playing a bluegrass favorite- "Orange Blossom Special" Unfortunately, some moron started his motorcycle about halfway through, so you will hear some non-bluegrass noises. Lorie and Melanie are HUGE High Water fans. Stephanie's voice is beautiful. This next clip doesn't do her singing justice, but here's a preview of her--
We only were able to hear the grass from about 8pm until Midnight. They are holding the second day of the festival today, but Lorie is working. We'll make sure to ask off of work next year! The good news is that in three weeks, we are going to the East Troy Bluegrass Festival. I'm not sure who is playing there, but I'm sure the grass will be blue.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Monday, June 16, 2008
June is busting out all over!
Okay--- so the musical, "Carousel", isn't a favorite, but the song title from the show definitely refelcts how we feel about our yard! As promised, here's a brief tour of the back with special focus on peonies!
In another few days, all of our peony plants should be in full bloom! We were probably most excited about our peony tree this year. (see blog post several posts down) The yard is finally taking shape for how we dreamed it could be! Eventually, (next year?) we'll be able to put down some stepping stones for form a nice path through the yard that leads to the fire pit, and then we can mulch or put stones on the rest. It'd be so nice to not have to mow grass in the backyard. The front yard has taken shape nicely. Here's the small piece of landscaping that we did in front.
Melanie also attended an event at the Stevens Point Temple. Temple Beth Israel was officially entered into the National Registry of Historical Places. It's the third oldest Temple in Wisconsin, and it has the oldest original sanctuary in the whole state. Lots of history! Unfortunately, the community scattered and disbanded in 1989. Guess it's hard to hold services when you can't get a minyan togther. The inside was nice, and it was sad to think about the community that could have been so close to where we live! For now, we continue to drive over 100 miles for our community.
In another few days, all of our peony plants should be in full bloom! We were probably most excited about our peony tree this year. (see blog post several posts down) The yard is finally taking shape for how we dreamed it could be! Eventually, (next year?) we'll be able to put down some stepping stones for form a nice path through the yard that leads to the fire pit, and then we can mulch or put stones on the rest. It'd be so nice to not have to mow grass in the backyard. The front yard has taken shape nicely. Here's the small piece of landscaping that we did in front.
Melanie also attended an event at the Stevens Point Temple. Temple Beth Israel was officially entered into the National Registry of Historical Places. It's the third oldest Temple in Wisconsin, and it has the oldest original sanctuary in the whole state. Lots of history! Unfortunately, the community scattered and disbanded in 1989. Guess it's hard to hold services when you can't get a minyan togther. The inside was nice, and it was sad to think about the community that could have been so close to where we live! For now, we continue to drive over 100 miles for our community.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Time for a recipe!- Iron Chef RADISH!
Today, Melanie and Lorie decided it was time for a harvest. The garden is becoming quite impressive, and we are in the danger zone for having our lettuce bolt and starting seeding. After that, it's too bitter to eat. So, salads are being eaten at many meals. A large bag of lettuce was delivered to a friend. 
Also, we went into "harvest all the radishes" mode. After poking around in the garden, Melanie realized that the radishes were HUGE! We'd never seen radishes this big. We picked enough to make three recipes worth, and it also will allow room for some of the smaller radish plants to spread and grow a bit more. The problem was simple-- what to do with the radish tops. Melanie dug around and found a recipe for radish top soup. It tastes pretty good. It's not as "radishy" as one would think. It almost tastes like a potato leek soup. We substituted vegetable broth for the chicken broth and used half and half instead of heavy whipping cream.
INGREDIENTS:
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, diced
2 medium potatoes, sliced
4 cups raw radish greens 4 cups veggie broth
1/3 cup half and half
5 radishes, sliced
DIRECTIONS:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the onion, and saute until tender. Mix in the potatoes and radish greens, coating them with the butter. Pour in veggie broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes.
2. Allow the soup mixture to cool slightly, and transfer to a blender. Blend until smooth.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Mix in the half and half. Cook and stir until well blended. Serve with radish slices.
After this, Melanie decided to move to step two in Operation Radish. Out came the cream cheese, and the radish dip was created! SOOOooooooooooo delicious! If you like garlic, this is the recipe for you! Let's just say that even the cats don't want to sleep near Melanie's breath this evening.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cloves garlic, peeled
6 radishes, quartered
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place garlic in the container of a food processor, and pulse until finely minced. Add radishes, and mince. Add cream cheese, and mix until well blended. Transfer to a serving dish, and chill until serving.
As for the rest of the garden, Lorie is enjoying all the beautiful flowers! While Melanie was really charged with making the veggies happen, Lorie is the flower queen, and has quite a knack for picking out some beautiful perennials. Look at this gorgeous iris!
Tomorrow, we'll have more updates. There is another blog-garden tour planned as well as a Radish Coleslaw recipe in the works. In the meantime, Melanie's going to de-vampire the county with her dragon garlic/radish breath.
Also, we went into "harvest all the radishes" mode. After poking around in the garden, Melanie realized that the radishes were HUGE! We'd never seen radishes this big. We picked enough to make three recipes worth, and it also will allow room for some of the smaller radish plants to spread and grow a bit more. The problem was simple-- what to do with the radish tops. Melanie dug around and found a recipe for radish top soup. It tastes pretty good. It's not as "radishy" as one would think. It almost tastes like a potato leek soup. We substituted vegetable broth for the chicken broth and used half and half instead of heavy whipping cream.INGREDIENTS:
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, diced
2 medium potatoes, sliced
4 cups raw radish greens 4 cups veggie broth
1/3 cup half and half
5 radishes, sliced
DIRECTIONS:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the onion, and saute until tender. Mix in the potatoes and radish greens, coating them with the butter. Pour in veggie broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes.
2. Allow the soup mixture to cool slightly, and transfer to a blender. Blend until smooth.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Mix in the half and half. Cook and stir until well blended. Serve with radish slices.
After this, Melanie decided to move to step two in Operation Radish. Out came the cream cheese, and the radish dip was created! SOOOooooooooooo delicious! If you like garlic, this is the recipe for you! Let's just say that even the cats don't want to sleep near Melanie's breath this evening.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cloves garlic, peeled
6 radishes, quartered
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place garlic in the container of a food processor, and pulse until finely minced. Add radishes, and mince. Add cream cheese, and mix until well blended. Transfer to a serving dish, and chill until serving.
As for the rest of the garden, Lorie is enjoying all the beautiful flowers! While Melanie was really charged with making the veggies happen, Lorie is the flower queen, and has quite a knack for picking out some beautiful perennials. Look at this gorgeous iris!
Tomorrow, we'll have more updates. There is another blog-garden tour planned as well as a Radish Coleslaw recipe in the works. In the meantime, Melanie's going to de-vampire the county with her dragon garlic/radish breath.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Water water EVERYWHERE!
This weekend turned out to be a little less then we expected. Since the weather was supposed to be a bit wet, we decided to drive to Milwaukee to visit family. Melanie managed to get another one of her fabulous hotel deals-- Hyatt Regency in Downtown Milwaukee for only $42! Check out the view from the 17th floor. 
We loved the hotel, and we really didn't want to leave! After a few hours of outlet shopping (can you say Eddie Bauer pants for $8!) we went to Melanie's neck of the woods. What was supposed to be a nice dinner turned into all three of us huddling in the basement waiting for the tornado to pass. Milwaukee County can thank Melanie for no tornado. She was the ONLY one that wanted to go to the basement, and because she forced Lorie and her dad downstairs, the whole county was safe! After the threat of tornados passed, the flooding began. The sky opened up, and the roads flooded. Trees came down and cars got stalled out. It was quite scary. Lorie's sister had her basement flood. Our lunch date with Lorie's niece was postponed (understandable!) and we were left wandering the streets of Milwaukee with Melanie's dad. We forced him to drive downtown with us to dine on some delicious George Webb. Then, we took a walk down the River Walk. 
After loading up our "Green Machine" (Ford Focus) with our newly inherited garden decorations, we headed back up-north. The sky was ominous. We snapped a few pictures between gawking at the flooding. What a site! When we arrived back home, we emailed a few of the photos to the local news station as they accept viewer photos. We were broadcast! Lorie's son emailed and exclaimed that they showed our picture and educated the listeners about "shelf clouds" and storms. Very neat-- here are those pictures.
We loved the hotel, and we really didn't want to leave! After a few hours of outlet shopping (can you say Eddie Bauer pants for $8!) we went to Melanie's neck of the woods. What was supposed to be a nice dinner turned into all three of us huddling in the basement waiting for the tornado to pass. Milwaukee County can thank Melanie for no tornado. She was the ONLY one that wanted to go to the basement, and because she forced Lorie and her dad downstairs, the whole county was safe! After the threat of tornados passed, the flooding began. The sky opened up, and the roads flooded. Trees came down and cars got stalled out. It was quite scary. Lorie's sister had her basement flood. Our lunch date with Lorie's niece was postponed (understandable!) and we were left wandering the streets of Milwaukee with Melanie's dad. We forced him to drive downtown with us to dine on some delicious George Webb. Then, we took a walk down the River Walk. 
After loading up our "Green Machine" (Ford Focus) with our newly inherited garden decorations, we headed back up-north. The sky was ominous. We snapped a few pictures between gawking at the flooding. What a site! When we arrived back home, we emailed a few of the photos to the local news station as they accept viewer photos. We were broadcast! Lorie's son emailed and exclaimed that they showed our picture and educated the listeners about "shelf clouds" and storms. Very neat-- here are those pictures.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
So long since the last blog-- look at the garden!
Sometimes life gets so busy that one can't even find time to write about it... that's where Lorie and Melanie have been for the last month. Spring sprung. There were graduations to attend. Square Foot Gardens to build. Seeds to sow. Beds to dig. Plants to plant. It's been busy..... but look at the progress of the garden since you've last seen it---
One to the most beautiful new additions to the front yard is a peony tree. We've never heard of a peony tree before. Melanie's mother gave it to us about one year ago. It was one of the last things-- if not the last thing-- she gave us before she passed away. It was neglected last year, but once it was planted, it started to come back to life. This year, once the winter covering was lifted from it, it sprouted quite quickly! It should eventually grow to be about four or five feet high and about four feet wide. The color was a surprise, and we were quite thrilled when it opened up pink.
And-- the last big event lately was the graduation of Lorie's daughter! The graduation ceremony was long but lovely. The graduate was beautiful and nervous, but everything went perfectly! A BIG congratuations to the Class of 2008!!!
One to the most beautiful new additions to the front yard is a peony tree. We've never heard of a peony tree before. Melanie's mother gave it to us about one year ago. It was one of the last things-- if not the last thing-- she gave us before she passed away. It was neglected last year, but once it was planted, it started to come back to life. This year, once the winter covering was lifted from it, it sprouted quite quickly! It should eventually grow to be about four or five feet high and about four feet wide. The color was a surprise, and we were quite thrilled when it opened up pink.
And-- the last big event lately was the graduation of Lorie's daughter! The graduation ceremony was long but lovely. The graduate was beautiful and nervous, but everything went perfectly! A BIG congratuations to the Class of 2008!!!
Monday, April 28, 2008
This is why we don't plant in April.....
Today, Lorie and I are completely exhausted! This weekend was very eventful-- first we had Lorie's daughter's Prom. She was beautiful, and we should definitely provide an updated picture.
That photo was taken at the house of a member of her prom party. (just so you don't think that we live in that lap of luxury!) She reported that she had a fabulous time!
Then, yesterday, Lorie and Melanie got down to business and finished their square foot garden structure. They are both completely wiped out today because all the hard labor. You would think that such a small structure would be easy to build, but acquiring all the materials was the tough part. Melanie lugged so many packets of dirt, peat, and vermiculite home, that her back is screaming! ---But-- as you can see-- the effort was well worth it!
Of course, this is very exciting! Tomorrow, I'm going to start putting in some of the cold weather seeds and crops-- well, maybe not the crops yet, but definitely some of the seeds that need a cold start. We are still four weeks away from final frost, and the growing season is pretty short. We'll have to move quickly! The first 4' x 8' plot will be for Melanie's use-- she has a plan established, and she'll show you that tomorrow. Lorie thinks that she might try her had at some corn. She is telling Melanie that there is NOTHING in the world like sweet corn picked directly off the vine. We'll provide a full report (assuming that the squirrels and racoons don't get all the corn!) in August or September. Now-- here's the depressing part. JUST when we think that Spring has Sprung, and everyone is ready to get going for the season-- we wake up to THIS!!!!
What is the meaning of this!? Who ordered this? You may not be able to tell, but it still is snowing in that picture, too. We heard this morning that we're getting an inch. Yuck. At least I didn't throw any of my seedlings/crops in the garden yet. I guess it still is April in Wisconsin.
That photo was taken at the house of a member of her prom party. (just so you don't think that we live in that lap of luxury!) She reported that she had a fabulous time! Then, yesterday, Lorie and Melanie got down to business and finished their square foot garden structure. They are both completely wiped out today because all the hard labor. You would think that such a small structure would be easy to build, but acquiring all the materials was the tough part. Melanie lugged so many packets of dirt, peat, and vermiculite home, that her back is screaming! ---But-- as you can see-- the effort was well worth it!
Of course, this is very exciting! Tomorrow, I'm going to start putting in some of the cold weather seeds and crops-- well, maybe not the crops yet, but definitely some of the seeds that need a cold start. We are still four weeks away from final frost, and the growing season is pretty short. We'll have to move quickly! The first 4' x 8' plot will be for Melanie's use-- she has a plan established, and she'll show you that tomorrow. Lorie thinks that she might try her had at some corn. She is telling Melanie that there is NOTHING in the world like sweet corn picked directly off the vine. We'll provide a full report (assuming that the squirrels and racoons don't get all the corn!) in August or September. Now-- here's the depressing part. JUST when we think that Spring has Sprung, and everyone is ready to get going for the season-- we wake up to THIS!!!!
What is the meaning of this!? Who ordered this? You may not be able to tell, but it still is snowing in that picture, too. We heard this morning that we're getting an inch. Yuck. At least I didn't throw any of my seedlings/crops in the garden yet. I guess it still is April in Wisconsin.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Promzilla attacks!
Alright- maybe "Promzilla" isn't a fair title, but it sounds so cute! Lorie's daughter has her final high school formal dance this evening, and it's her Senior Prom. She has very cold weather to contend with-- it suddenly dropped from highs in the mid-70s to a high of 42 degrees today. There's also a chance of snow showers! Poor thing, but at least the dance won't be too warm. The main reason for this post is to show you how beautiful Lorie's daughter is- I mean--it's no surprise! She's got some good genes going in her favor, right? 
So amazing to think that Lorie's litle girl is going to graduate from high school soon and start college. Melanie was going through some pictures and found another picture of her dressed up -- standing in the same spot. So cute! 
Now that Melanie and Lorie are all verklempt, it's time for Lorie's little girl to ready for the Prom. She has appointments for hair up-dos and nails and makeup and photos and food and putting on the huge (or as she calls it, "poofy") dress and...... Wish us luck-- the legendary Promzilla is officially on the loose! ****Note: I'm sure Lorie's daughter would like all to know that the prom dress picture is only a dress picture. It does not include hair, makeup, nails, shoes, etc.... this was only a forced dress try-on for pictures. End note. ****
So amazing to think that Lorie's litle girl is going to graduate from high school soon and start college. Melanie was going through some pictures and found another picture of her dressed up -- standing in the same spot. So cute! 
Now that Melanie and Lorie are all verklempt, it's time for Lorie's little girl to ready for the Prom. She has appointments for hair up-dos and nails and makeup and photos and food and putting on the huge (or as she calls it, "poofy") dress and...... Wish us luck-- the legendary Promzilla is officially on the loose! ****Note: I'm sure Lorie's daughter would like all to know that the prom dress picture is only a dress picture. It does not include hair, makeup, nails, shoes, etc.... this was only a forced dress try-on for pictures. End note. ****
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
It's been awhile!- nothing to report
Well, there's not too much to report in Melanie and Lorie land. No news is good news, right? The animals are still getting along. The winter has moved into spring. Lorie and Melanie are still working at the same places... blah blah blah. It is now Passover, so there was a seder hosted at our house. Unfortuantely, we forgot to take really nice pictures, but we'll show you one from last year.
This was from a smaller seder that we did, but it was still very nice. On Sunday night, Lorie and I went to a congregational seder up north. It wasn't our own congregation, but it was still very nice.
Yesterday, Melanie cleaned out all her fat clothes. This was quite an accomplishment! She threw away about three large bags, and two bags are headed over to the resale shop. Hopefully, she's make enough money to buy a few pairs of cute Eddie Bauer jeans!
Finally, Lorie and Melanie are getting ready to plant their square foot garden! Melanie's birthday is coming up fast, and she's asked a friend to help her assemble the garden. Once the raised bed is complete, she can get her seeds in or plant the four flats of young veggies that she bought from the greenhouse. We'll have some great pictures, I'm sure.
This was from a smaller seder that we did, but it was still very nice. On Sunday night, Lorie and I went to a congregational seder up north. It wasn't our own congregation, but it was still very nice.Yesterday, Melanie cleaned out all her fat clothes. This was quite an accomplishment! She threw away about three large bags, and two bags are headed over to the resale shop. Hopefully, she's make enough money to buy a few pairs of cute Eddie Bauer jeans!
Finally, Lorie and Melanie are getting ready to plant their square foot garden! Melanie's birthday is coming up fast, and she's asked a friend to help her assemble the garden. Once the raised bed is complete, she can get her seeds in or plant the four flats of young veggies that she bought from the greenhouse. We'll have some great pictures, I'm sure.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Cats and Pears and Wieners-- OH MY!
First, here's an update on Izzy. All is wonderful with the kitty. Fig and Izzy fast became friends. They're cuddling and loving each other as only cats can do. There's still a little bit of fur that will fly, but for the most part, things have settled down quite a bit.
What an interesting day that Lorie and Melanie had today. Melanie had to attend a family gathering today, so Lorie and her daughter tagged along. They traveled through Madison, and made a quick stop. First, they ran to a Mexican Bakery. Good for Lorie. Bad for Melanie's diet. They got four HUGE donuts for only $3.85. This bakery just received rave reviews in the Sunday newspaper, and the store was crazy busy. We haven't eaten any of them yet, but I'm sure they'll be delicious. After that, we ran to a local grocery store to pick up our food for Passover. If we don't get the Passover food early, then there's nothing left, and we're stuck eating Matzo Ball Soup for a whole week! Matzo Ball Soup is delicious, but not for 7 days in a row! At Copps Grocery store, they had a variety of insanely large fruit. This was not fruit for sale, but fruit as decorations. Of course, Lorie's daughter insisted that she take lots of pictures.
Finally, on our way out of town, we ran into the most famous car of all. Well, it's not THE most famous-- maybe the second most famous. Madison is known for its Oscar Meyer food processing plant. I know, I know... not very vegetarian, however, this is definitely part of Madison culture. Most everyone I know remembers the Wiener mobile. As I child, Melanie and Lorie remember seeing the wiener mobile at the State Fair in Milwaukee. Some kids remember the wiener mobile whistles that they'd pass out. Few ever saw the wiener mobile outside the gates of a fair.... but Madison residents see the famous vehicle quite often! Today, we got to see a spin off of the larger wiener mobile..... we saw the Lil' Link. Isn't she cute?
Lorie also wants to mention that we are now the proud owners of a new Torah Commentary. It's a Women's Commentary, and we're very, very excited about it!
During our Torah studies, we often ponder how the interpretations would differ if a woman had written out a scholarly interpretation. Now we have a brand new resource. We're one of the first owners of the book as Melanie ordered through the Temple's Sisterhood. We can't wait to crack it open!
What an interesting day that Lorie and Melanie had today. Melanie had to attend a family gathering today, so Lorie and her daughter tagged along. They traveled through Madison, and made a quick stop. First, they ran to a Mexican Bakery. Good for Lorie. Bad for Melanie's diet. They got four HUGE donuts for only $3.85. This bakery just received rave reviews in the Sunday newspaper, and the store was crazy busy. We haven't eaten any of them yet, but I'm sure they'll be delicious. After that, we ran to a local grocery store to pick up our food for Passover. If we don't get the Passover food early, then there's nothing left, and we're stuck eating Matzo Ball Soup for a whole week! Matzo Ball Soup is delicious, but not for 7 days in a row! At Copps Grocery store, they had a variety of insanely large fruit. This was not fruit for sale, but fruit as decorations. Of course, Lorie's daughter insisted that she take lots of pictures.
Finally, on our way out of town, we ran into the most famous car of all. Well, it's not THE most famous-- maybe the second most famous. Madison is known for its Oscar Meyer food processing plant. I know, I know... not very vegetarian, however, this is definitely part of Madison culture. Most everyone I know remembers the Wiener mobile. As I child, Melanie and Lorie remember seeing the wiener mobile at the State Fair in Milwaukee. Some kids remember the wiener mobile whistles that they'd pass out. Few ever saw the wiener mobile outside the gates of a fair.... but Madison residents see the famous vehicle quite often! Today, we got to see a spin off of the larger wiener mobile..... we saw the Lil' Link. Isn't she cute?
Lorie also wants to mention that we are now the proud owners of a new Torah Commentary. It's a Women's Commentary, and we're very, very excited about it!
During our Torah studies, we often ponder how the interpretations would differ if a woman had written out a scholarly interpretation. Now we have a brand new resource. We're one of the first owners of the book as Melanie ordered through the Temple's Sisterhood. We can't wait to crack it open!
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Introducing, Izzy!
YES!! It's been chaos here in the house! Anytime a new furbaby is added, a household will usually experience some sort of drama. Thankfully, no fur has flown-- just a few hisses and growling, but I think that all will work out in a few days. We don't have time to write much because we're playing with our new and existing babies-- but we will share a slideshow of our buddy! See the post below for some pictures!
We may take a poll for names, but right now we're leaning towards Izzy--- Newton, our baby that crossed the Rainbow Bridge, was named Isaac Newton. Izzy would be short for Isaac- thus a tribute to Newton. Let us know what you think!
We may take a poll for names, but right now we're leaning towards Izzy--- Newton, our baby that crossed the Rainbow Bridge, was named Isaac Newton. Izzy would be short for Isaac- thus a tribute to Newton. Let us know what you think!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Ice Dam be Damned!
Our problems are fixed-- for now. As the beautiful sun decided to come out on Tuesday, the ice dam on the roof backed up and caused water to seep into the house!!!! We're talking buckets of water (okay-- small buckets-- mini-buckets) dripped down the wall and on the floor. Actually, our front door won't open now because the hardwood floor is swollen. That night, we called our handyman, Mark.
Mark to the rescue!
He came over the next day and chipped the ice dam off the roof. Note: this is NOT recommended normally. You have to weigh the options- potential roof damage from chipping OR water pouring into your home. We choose the waterless route. As of now, our roof has a LOT less snow and ice on it, and our sun room is much drier. The dripping stopped immediately, and we will deal with things in spring. For the door that won't open?--- Mark says that if we use our space heater by the door and put a fan blowing in that corner, that we should be way ahead of any wood rot or damage.
Now, Melanie works for a bank, and one of the last insurance claim check calls that she took was for an ice dam claim that was over 19 THOUSAND dollars of damage! How much did this issue cost Lorie and Melanie? 50 bucks. We are so lucky. We know that we have to do some investment in the spring with heat tape (those squiggly "ropes" you see on peoples' houses in the midwest) and some electrical updating to accomodate the heat tape, but overall-- we are two lucky ladies! This blog entry is dedicated to Mark-- our handyman hero.
Mark to the rescue!
He came over the next day and chipped the ice dam off the roof. Note: this is NOT recommended normally. You have to weigh the options- potential roof damage from chipping OR water pouring into your home. We choose the waterless route. As of now, our roof has a LOT less snow and ice on it, and our sun room is much drier. The dripping stopped immediately, and we will deal with things in spring. For the door that won't open?--- Mark says that if we use our space heater by the door and put a fan blowing in that corner, that we should be way ahead of any wood rot or damage. Now, Melanie works for a bank, and one of the last insurance claim check calls that she took was for an ice dam claim that was over 19 THOUSAND dollars of damage! How much did this issue cost Lorie and Melanie? 50 bucks. We are so lucky. We know that we have to do some investment in the spring with heat tape (those squiggly "ropes" you see on peoples' houses in the midwest) and some electrical updating to accomodate the heat tape, but overall-- we are two lucky ladies! This blog entry is dedicated to Mark-- our handyman hero.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Newton-- our furbaby- Rest in Peace
We've been pretty silent lately. Lorie and I have been mourning the passing of our furbaby, Newton. Melanie was adopted by Newton in 1996, and Lorie was added to their family in 2001. Although their time together was too short, they were very happy. Newton enjoyed spending time with his kitty buddy, Fig. They were the best pals that kitties could ask for in life!
Newton will be missed dearly. We love you, our angel furbaby.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Delicious Oatmeal Blackstrap Molasses Cookies
Tonight, one of the lovely ladies from the Veggie Board of Weight Watchers, ValerieMaha, suggested some blackstrap molasses recipes so that I can sneak some iron into Lorie's meals. Since Lorie will always eat a cookie, this was the perfect recipe, and it was very delicious!
Oatmeal Molasses Cookies
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 egg
1/2 cup molasses
1-1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 cup white unbleached flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup quick-cooking oats
Cream sugar and butter together in a large mixing bowl. Add egg and molasses; beat well. Add sifted dry ingredients and mix well. Add vanilla then stir in oatmeal. Drop from teaspoon onto greased baking sheet.
Bake at 375° for 10 to 12 minutes, until done. Makes about 4 dozen oatmeal molasses cookies
Well, the recipe builder for Weight Watchers says 1 points per cookie-- BUT that is if you make 48 cookies. I didn't count them, but for the size that we made, we found that we made about 36 cookies and they ended up being 2 points each-- still not bad for a wonderful cookie that actually had a nutritional component to it!
Oatmeal Molasses Cookies
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 egg
1/2 cup molasses
1-1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 cup white unbleached flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup quick-cooking oats
Cream sugar and butter together in a large mixing bowl. Add egg and molasses; beat well. Add sifted dry ingredients and mix well. Add vanilla then stir in oatmeal. Drop from teaspoon onto greased baking sheet.
Bake at 375° for 10 to 12 minutes, until done. Makes about 4 dozen oatmeal molasses cookies
Well, the recipe builder for Weight Watchers says 1 points per cookie-- BUT that is if you make 48 cookies. I didn't count them, but for the size that we made, we found that we made about 36 cookies and they ended up being 2 points each-- still not bad for a wonderful cookie that actually had a nutritional component to it!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Delicious Biscuits and Gravy
Here is one of our promised recipes. This week, Melanie made one of her old favorites, but she did it "Vegan with a Vengeance" style. Isa Chandra Moskowitz has written a fabulous cookbook, and this is one of the recipes. It's been slightly altered to be a little more Weight Watchers friendly. The first step is to make Tempeh Sausage Crumbles. Crumble 8 oz. of Tempeh (Melanie used plain) and cover with water. Heat over medium high heat until most of the water is absorbed. Drain off the rest of the water (takes about 15 minutes+) Then add about 1 tsp of fennel seed, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp of oregano, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp dried sage, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp low salt soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil (Melanie used a bit less) and juice of half a lemon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. (about 10+ minutes)
Meanwhile, drain and rinse one 15 oz. can of any kind of white bean (Melanie used white navy beans). In a blender, puree beans, 2 tbsp olive oil (Melanie used only 1 tbsp) and 1/4 low sodium vegetable broth. Blend until smooth, and combine with the Tempeh Sausage Crumbles along with salt (if you want-- Melanie didn't) and pepper.
Top this delicious mixture over your favorite baking powder biscuit.
Melanie figures that this makes seven generous servings at 7.5 points each. VERY "pointy" as Melanie would say, but HIGHLY filling. Oh-- and the biscuit is 4 points -- this makes an 11.5 point meal. Ouch, but again-- filling and delicious.
Other then that, we're expecting a tropical heatwave. It's supposed to get to a warm 38 degrees by Monday. It might even rain! Only in Wisconsin can you go from 30 below zero to almost 40 degrees in the same week. Tonight, Lorie and Melanie are stuck in the house. All Friday evening plans have been postponed due to snow. Driving conditions are near impossible this evening. At least we get a little quiet time before we both have to work this weekend.
Meanwhile, drain and rinse one 15 oz. can of any kind of white bean (Melanie used white navy beans). In a blender, puree beans, 2 tbsp olive oil (Melanie used only 1 tbsp) and 1/4 low sodium vegetable broth. Blend until smooth, and combine with the Tempeh Sausage Crumbles along with salt (if you want-- Melanie didn't) and pepper.
Top this delicious mixture over your favorite baking powder biscuit.
Melanie figures that this makes seven generous servings at 7.5 points each. VERY "pointy" as Melanie would say, but HIGHLY filling. Oh-- and the biscuit is 4 points -- this makes an 11.5 point meal. Ouch, but again-- filling and delicious.
Other then that, we're expecting a tropical heatwave. It's supposed to get to a warm 38 degrees by Monday. It might even rain! Only in Wisconsin can you go from 30 below zero to almost 40 degrees in the same week. Tonight, Lorie and Melanie are stuck in the house. All Friday evening plans have been postponed due to snow. Driving conditions are near impossible this evening. At least we get a little quiet time before we both have to work this weekend.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Pileated Woodpeckers, Trees, and Tu B'Shevat
Yes, these items are all related! In some twist of irony, Lorie and I have solved our tree problem. We've been told that the area we live in has a high population of pileated woodpeckers. If any of you are familiar with the most famous pecker of them all (did we just say that?), Woody Woodpecker is pileated. Picture a bird about a foot tall, and you've got our woodpecker. Scary. It's a HUGE bird. We're going to try to put up a picture of an owl or a plastic owl and hope that he goes away. We've heard that they can even destroy homes. This is not good. Here's the ironic part. Today, is the Festival of the Trees in Jewish Time. It's Tu B'Shevat! Lorie and I had a beautiful Seder tonight where we ate all different kinds of fruits! We dined on grapes, apricots, kiwi, almonds, mango, banana, raspberries, and peaches. It was delicious! We drank both white and red grape juice, and we followed a Seder (or "Order") for our meal. It was short but very meaningful. Many Jews arrange to have a tree planted in Israel for this day. We've decided to focus on our own tree this season. We'll post a few pictures of our Seder. 
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Lorie jinxes the Packer Game and HOLY CRAP it's COLD!
Tonight's post will be brief. I'm all alone at the computer tonight because Lorie is watching the Packers play in overtime right now. I refuse to watch it. Lorie still doesn't realize that every time we're watching the game, the Packers are playing poorly, and everytime we turn it off, the Packers do well. I hold her personally responsible for whatever happens to the Packers this evening. I refuse to jinx our boys. Lorie doesn't even know anything about football and suddenly she has to be the one to watch "history being made."
Anyway, I'm going to go off and try to find something that will distract me for the next few minutes. I did want to post a picture of the thermometer in the Saturn this morning. I have never in my entire life experienced weather this bitterly cold. It was so cold that I had to take a picture of the temperature read-out because I didn't think that anyone would believe us. So, this is how I'm going to end the evening-- with this lone picture.
*****breaking news***-- The Packers lost in Overtime. I guess it's harsh to hold Lorie or me personally responsible for the loss. It's still sad. Favre and that interception.... OY! We're both going to cry ourselves to sleep now. At least we know the Giants will get crushed by the Patriots. (the Packers would have been crushed, too-- so I guess that's the bright side)
Anyway, I'm going to go off and try to find something that will distract me for the next few minutes. I did want to post a picture of the thermometer in the Saturn this morning. I have never in my entire life experienced weather this bitterly cold. It was so cold that I had to take a picture of the temperature read-out because I didn't think that anyone would believe us. So, this is how I'm going to end the evening-- with this lone picture.
*****breaking news***-- The Packers lost in Overtime. I guess it's harsh to hold Lorie or me personally responsible for the loss. It's still sad. Favre and that interception.... OY! We're both going to cry ourselves to sleep now. At least we know the Giants will get crushed by the Patriots. (the Packers would have been crushed, too-- so I guess that's the bright side)
Saturday, January 19, 2008
So far this weekend, we have three new friends...
This weekend has turned out to be an exciting one so far. To give a little background, our recent drama started with a few "crumbs" below our front yard tree. Now this tree in front of our house is very large. Our home is an 100+ year old duplex that we've converted into single family housing. (We did try to rent to tenants-- unsuccessfully. After the second tenant tried to barter for rent instead of paying cash, we decided that the landlord business was not our thing and quickly converted it into a larger home for us! It's now a home that has two of everything-- perfect for keeping kosher!) Anyway, back to the tree. Half of our house is two stories. This tree is easily taller then the second story. A few weeks ago, we noticed bark starting to fall off a major branch of the tree. Then, nothing.... then a week ago, more bark. Then, the next morning, more bark. Before we knew it, we had a HUGE hole in this major branch!! We can't find any tracks below or on the branches of this tree, so we have no clue what kind of animal it might be. We're posting a picture. If there's any wildlife experts out there, we'd appreciate any input. Please! Any more tree parts that go missing will seriously compromise the integrity of this extremely large- happens to dangle over our house and our power lines-- tree. 
So-- that is friend number one for the weekend.
Friend number two happens to be on our "good" list instead of the "you know what" list. His name is Mr. Cole. Okay, we really don't know if his name is Cole, but he works for and owns Cole Music. I think we're correct in assuming his name is Cole-something-er-other. Anyway, Mr. Cole is a very friendly man that keeps a music repair store on the main drag in Marshfield, Wisconsin. As mentioned in a previous post, Lorie's banjo has been mighty twangy. On a whim, Lorie and I stopped at this store. We had actually gone to Marshfield to look for a different store that's subsequently closed, and we stumbled on Cole Music. When we walked in, we looked around and saw the glorious sight of all sorts of stringed instruments in various stages of repair. We asked if him repaired banjos, as there were a few of them on the wall. He said, "Four string or Five string?" (leaving off, of course, the dreaded six string banjo that's not a banjo, but, rather, tuned to a guitar-style tuning for those that aren't brave enough to learn real bluegrass!) We knew immediately that this was our man! Lorie sent me to get the banjo from the car, and we lovingly unpacked it from its gig bag. In a matter of 20 minutes, Mr. Cole has the thing singing like a hillbilly in the blue fog of the Kentucky mountains on a crisp, fall morning. (yes, that's GOOD) Lorie loves the sound of the newly filed, tuned, and strung banjo! Lorie said it was like "baby's first haircut" as this was banjo's first time in a "real" repair shop.
The final friend of the weekend is Old Man Winter. Again, we ask ourselves, which of our dumb relatives came to this state, stayed for a single winter, and actually stayed for more punishment! Lorie would like everyone to know that she is 50% gypsy, and she's not quite sure why that half of her family didn't pack the caravan up and move on out like any normal gypsy would... but no.... they stayed. We are going to post one more photo just to prove how ridiculous this is-- this was taken in Stevens Point at about 3pm. Keep in mind that the temperatures are expected to dip another 10 to 15 degrees for the evening lows. Again, we ask ourselves, "why do we stay in this blasted state?"
So-- that is friend number one for the weekend.Friend number two happens to be on our "good" list instead of the "you know what" list. His name is Mr. Cole. Okay, we really don't know if his name is Cole, but he works for and owns Cole Music. I think we're correct in assuming his name is Cole-something-er-other. Anyway, Mr. Cole is a very friendly man that keeps a music repair store on the main drag in Marshfield, Wisconsin. As mentioned in a previous post, Lorie's banjo has been mighty twangy. On a whim, Lorie and I stopped at this store. We had actually gone to Marshfield to look for a different store that's subsequently closed, and we stumbled on Cole Music. When we walked in, we looked around and saw the glorious sight of all sorts of stringed instruments in various stages of repair. We asked if him repaired banjos, as there were a few of them on the wall. He said, "Four string or Five string?" (leaving off, of course, the dreaded six string banjo that's not a banjo, but, rather, tuned to a guitar-style tuning for those that aren't brave enough to learn real bluegrass!) We knew immediately that this was our man! Lorie sent me to get the banjo from the car, and we lovingly unpacked it from its gig bag. In a matter of 20 minutes, Mr. Cole has the thing singing like a hillbilly in the blue fog of the Kentucky mountains on a crisp, fall morning. (yes, that's GOOD) Lorie loves the sound of the newly filed, tuned, and strung banjo! Lorie said it was like "baby's first haircut" as this was banjo's first time in a "real" repair shop.
The final friend of the weekend is Old Man Winter. Again, we ask ourselves, which of our dumb relatives came to this state, stayed for a single winter, and actually stayed for more punishment! Lorie would like everyone to know that she is 50% gypsy, and she's not quite sure why that half of her family didn't pack the caravan up and move on out like any normal gypsy would... but no.... they stayed. We are going to post one more photo just to prove how ridiculous this is-- this was taken in Stevens Point at about 3pm. Keep in mind that the temperatures are expected to dip another 10 to 15 degrees for the evening lows. Again, we ask ourselves, "why do we stay in this blasted state?"
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Wandering through the world of technology.........
Lorie and I still aren't sure about this whole blogging thing. There's probably going to be a lot of mistakes, so we thank you for your patience. This weekend, the cold has definitely put a damper on our outdoor plans. We will probably drive to Madison on Sunday so that I can meet with the Rabbi. We'll then make a trip to Trader Joe and Old Navy. We might also stop off and have Lorie's banjo looked at, as the 5th string (G) is making a funny twangy noise. (from a banjo? Twangy noise?! Noooo!) Okay-- twangier then normal. Anyway, our weekend plans could have been cross country skiing or even snowshoeing (my new found love!), but I'll probably go outside to let the dog out, and that's about it. I took a picture of the deck. 
Keep in mind that this is AFTER we shoveled! Lorie asked me tonight why we are living in Wisconsin? I'm really not sure. I can't trace my ancestry back far enough to find out which one of my stupid relatives moved here. Lorie can thank her Grandma and Grandpa from Poland.
Oh-- our rules of engagement for blogging. Lorie and I will blog at night-- together-- UNLESS she is working until the store closes. Tonight she closes- which is why Melanie is blogging now. Tomorrow, you'll hear from both of us. She's much more eloquent. You'll see.
Keep in mind that this is AFTER we shoveled! Lorie asked me tonight why we are living in Wisconsin? I'm really not sure. I can't trace my ancestry back far enough to find out which one of my stupid relatives moved here. Lorie can thank her Grandma and Grandpa from Poland. Oh-- our rules of engagement for blogging. Lorie and I will blog at night-- together-- UNLESS she is working until the store closes. Tonight she closes- which is why Melanie is blogging now. Tomorrow, you'll hear from both of us. She's much more eloquent. You'll see.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Welcome to our first blog entry
Well, Lorie and Melanie are proudly going where no banjo playing vegetarian has gone before! Lorie decided that we needed to start keeping track of all of our wonderful adventures and good food. Hence, this blog! I might add that this was all because of the gnocchi epiphany that we had last evening after Melanie cooked a pesto and cheese filled gnocchi with low-fat alfredo sauce meal. This was accompanied with homemade rosemary shallot toast and fresh caesar salad. (all me@t free, of course!) We didn't get any pictures, but starting today, any amazing and wonderful meals will be featured with pictures and recipes. Also, as an added bonus, these meals will also feature Weight Watchers points values! Melanie has been on Weight Watchers for a little over a year now, and she's lost over 65 pounds! (Lorie has managed to find some of her lost weight, but that's okay-- she needed to put some flesh on that skeleton of hers)
In this blog, we'll also share details about our travels-- including camping and bluegrass festivals! Our first trip might be this weekend-- of course, we won't be camping as it's going to be about 6 degrees, but we'll still find some adventures to talk about-- we always do!
In this blog, we'll also share details about our travels-- including camping and bluegrass festivals! Our first trip might be this weekend-- of course, we won't be camping as it's going to be about 6 degrees, but we'll still find some adventures to talk about-- we always do!
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