tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55817078341858303022024-02-07T18:56:05.538-07:00our carlson lifeSignehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.comBlogger401125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-91092555611853668982016-04-25T16:24:00.001-07:002016-04-25T16:24:51.917-07:00milling mondays: whole wheat loaded cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For Esther's first birthday I thought it would be fun to use some personalized M&Ms I had saved from when we celebrated Esther's finalization. I thought this loaded cookie would be the perfect solution. Who doesn't like a cookie full of M&Ms, pretzels and coconut - yum!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Whole Wheat Loaded Cookies</b></span><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (2/3 soft wheat berries and 1/3 hard wheat berries) <br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 cup butter, softened<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
2 cups pretzels, broken<br />
1 1/2 cups flaked coconut<br />
1 1/2 cups M&Ms<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
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Preheat oven to 350F.<br />
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If you mill your own flour, grind your soft and hard wheat berries. I use my <a href="http://www.thewondermill.com/">WonderMill </a>on the pastry setting. Sift the flour once to make the dough less dense.<br />
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Mix together the freshly milled flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.<br />
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In a separate bowl cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.<br />
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Beat in the eggs and vanilla.<br />
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Gradually blend the flour mixture into the creamed mixture.<br />
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Finally stir in the pretzels, coconut and M&Ms.<br />
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Shape about 1/4 cup of dough into balls and place them about 3 inches apart on a un-greased baking sheet or baking stone.<br />
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Let the cookies bake for about 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.<br />
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Let them cool on a wire rack.<br />
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ENJOY!</div>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-46445802768617564392016-01-16T08:53:00.002-07:002016-01-16T08:53:54.345-07:00disneyLast year we were able to join Michael's family for a day at Disneyland while they were vacationing there and Esther had a great time! We were not sure if she would be too young to enjoy the day and while she probably will have no recollection of that day she seemed to enjoy it. We saw lots of intrigue, pointing, clapping and smiling from Esther. So glad we were able to spend some time with family. Here are some snapshots from the day.<br />
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-3860645679938024322015-12-14T11:22:00.002-07:002015-12-14T11:22:54.720-07:00family memories<br />
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There are some moments in our lives that are so precious you don't want to forget them. These are the moments that you lock away in your heart to hold on to the memory.<br />
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I have been so blessed to have an amazing extended family. A family where both sides of the family like each other and don't mind vacationing together. And when one of the family units decides to move to a different country (my immediate family being that family unit:) they love us so well that when we are in town or on special occasions WE ALL come together. For example in 2004 when we came back to Denmark for visit over Christmas - both sides of our family came together and we rented a cabin and spent the Christmas holiday together and just enjoyed quality time together. Such a great memory. Pass forward to October 2015 and my parents decided to celebrate their 60th birthdays, Danish style - and their siblings, many of my cousins and their kids all made the trek from Denmark to help celebrate and make memories. What a great family! We all stayed together for a week leading up to the party - and just hung out, caught up, enjoyed each others' company, played games, went on excursions, ate together - and got to know each others' kids. I am so thankful for a family that chose to use their vacation and finances to make such a special week happen. Thank you! I miss family time in Denmark and am thankful when I get a chance to experience it once in a while. Here are a bunch of snapshots from the week.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7wbFLEmcnmHldbebkAIVdFin6VSxZjZ9M5ztub4MWNCbsrKGU3tOSxhjPKk9-btBhiTb4poLAWX229UIcJHn5gzClx0k24XpoJD-GLbZgoZtSNNa-j7iEM0kfE0WYqUlIA6mrVweepw/s1600/120+bday+waco-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uiAL6hYdFzAgJr3laZ77OcI3AyipV1wlTwShruKpDad9gYSOQPlGUDXHW4MSbh_OkE35-yBzSI9SfRYR59RaDd_uKfzYDvQKelJ1w2MXdjfm2FU_ZKds5lUIFOgzq7jSkFS4z9httNg/s1600/120+bday+waco-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uiAL6hYdFzAgJr3laZ77OcI3AyipV1wlTwShruKpDad9gYSOQPlGUDXHW4MSbh_OkE35-yBzSI9SfRYR59RaDd_uKfzYDvQKelJ1w2MXdjfm2FU_ZKds5lUIFOgzq7jSkFS4z9httNg/s640/120+bday+waco-002.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">enjoying life outside</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1nTjwz2wAw2AAKX4FjFkmpClKUwIeOCyaVdrpi_KLGVa7660cN-f2w5YT7ZIREXP7zYZmOXfHGcNKAmUZpJLxQ03w9rOyyzVefbUa1zTK2cG5hjZyv4OT9WyA_sM4hjbZDzW1p5uJZY/s1600/120+bday+waco-004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1nTjwz2wAw2AAKX4FjFkmpClKUwIeOCyaVdrpi_KLGVa7660cN-f2w5YT7ZIREXP7zYZmOXfHGcNKAmUZpJLxQ03w9rOyyzVefbUa1zTK2cG5hjZyv4OT9WyA_sM4hjbZDzW1p5uJZY/s640/120+bday+waco-004.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">meal time</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtahQsUByuD_DBw62hHGF87odtI9FX_O94ze2NG3rkUQHWKEHeyQAJBs9Y8zajWWr8lyO-T82P87nmHZ5l9m0qXqjyMtyd43iz3auYSGF2O41aJUSGOWqtTkHPYbLSoN4kxCYw51SVtKk/s1600/120+bday+waco-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtahQsUByuD_DBw62hHGF87odtI9FX_O94ze2NG3rkUQHWKEHeyQAJBs9Y8zajWWr8lyO-T82P87nmHZ5l9m0qXqjyMtyd43iz3auYSGF2O41aJUSGOWqtTkHPYbLSoN4kxCYw51SVtKk/s640/120+bday+waco-005.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">enjoying life inside</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigI0leZUGTCFtEuBGbFbEDlsF1w4ZiJMPJ7U_Ql6LAXPhyphenhyphenGogmAjtbV8TaRssx-TC7Y6owial93yPdljOOwpOPuEMTJ0c1ezE4-ckwodTNKRRKYGQQoeqICqksXzz6DjNhWAE-yqVqmtM/s1600/120+bday+waco-003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigI0leZUGTCFtEuBGbFbEDlsF1w4ZiJMPJ7U_Ql6LAXPhyphenhyphenGogmAjtbV8TaRssx-TC7Y6owial93yPdljOOwpOPuEMTJ0c1ezE4-ckwodTNKRRKYGQQoeqICqksXzz6DjNhWAE-yqVqmtM/s640/120+bday+waco-003.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">out and about</td></tr>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-55802026763150676392015-12-09T16:34:00.001-07:002015-12-09T16:38:19.223-07:00grateful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I am grateful.<br />
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Today we are celebrating Esther turning one. This year has flown by and I can't believe our daughter is now one. So much has happened this year - so many developments and milestones. I love and appreciate the little girl Esther is becoming. She brings so much joy to our day and I can't imagine life without her. Not a day goes by where she doesn't bring a smile to my face:) She is such a gift!<br />
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But today is about so much more. It is about how one year ago today a special woman made an incredible sacrifice. A sacrifice that enabled us to become parents. I am thankful for this woman every day. I have been so filled with gratitude as I look back upon this day in the hospital a year ago. Our hero carried and labored for us so that we could experience a glimpse of the love God has for us as we love Esther. When I look at Esther and how much Michael and I have gained by having her in our life, how much sweeter and blessed our life has become, I am so thankful and incredibly aware of the reality that this woman had to let go of so much at the same time. There are no words that can adequately describe how thankful and blessed we are. But the overwhelming feeling I have today is a feeling of gratitude. <b><span style="font-size: large;">Gratitude for the woman that made it possible for us to have a daughter that is turning one today. What an amazing and selfless gift.</span></b> God is so good!<br />
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Today I am grateful.Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-33496300944984725492015-10-08T17:11:00.001-07:002015-10-09T19:38:54.149-07:00diy thursday: homemade nutella<br />
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I love Nutella! I mean who doesn't love a hazelnut chocolate spread? I grew up with Nutella and loved spreading it on a piece of fresh bread from the bakery on special occasions. We don't usually keep Nutella on hand as it is a "dangerous" thing to have in the house:) But this summer I thought it would be nice to get some as a treat for Michael and me. I then made the mistake of reading the label and realized that palm oil and sugar were the main ingredients (not hazelnut and cocoa). Now this didn't shock me and I realize chocolate spread isn't good for you... but I thought I must be able to make a Nutella with at least a little better ingredients. And I found a recipe that is very easy to make and that tastes yummy!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Homemade Nutella (hazelnut chocolate spread)</b></span><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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2 cups hazelnuts<br />
1 cup dark chocolate, melted<br />
2 TBS cocoa powder<br />
1/4 cup coconut palm sugar (or brown sugar)<br />
1 TBS honey<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1 TBS coconut oil<br />
Sea salt<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
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Preheat oven to 400F<br />
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Spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast in oven for about 10 minutes. Watch carefully to make sure nuts don't burn.<br />
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Remove the roasted hazelnuts and place them in a dishtowel and rub and shake to remove the skin. You shouldn't have to work too hard at this. It should for the most part come off easily. If all of the skin doesn't come off that is ok.<br />
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Place the peeled, roasted hazelnuts in a blender and mix until it becomes smooth as butter.<br />
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Add in the coconut oil, sugar, vanilla, cocoa powder and pinch of salt.<br />
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Blend it all together until smooth.<br />
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Melt the dark chocolate and add to the blender along with the honey.<br />
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Blend until smooth.<br />
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And VOILA you have homemade hazelnut chocolate spread.<br />
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ENJOY!</div>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-82820591497040946322015-09-14T08:16:00.001-07:002015-09-14T08:16:37.376-07:00milling mondays: whole wheat sister cake (soesterkage)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When my parents were in town last month I decided it was time for an old school danish cake. The original recipe dates back to the 1700s, but you can't go wrong with a tried and true recipe. And it was nice to bake something that is different than my usual go-to desserts.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Whole Wheat Soesterkage (Sister Cake)</b></span><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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400g whole wheat flour (2/3 soft wheat berries and 1/3 hard wheat berries)<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1 TBS cinnamon<br />
1 tsp ground ginger<br />
1 tsp ground cardamom<br />
1 tsp ground cloves<br />
1 tsp allspice<br />
250g butter, softened<br />
250g sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 1/2 dl (about 1 cup) buttermilk<br />
100g raisins<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
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Preheat the oven to 350F<br />
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If you mill your own flour, grind the soft and hard wheat berries. I of course use my <a href="http://thewondermill.com/">WonderMill</a> on the pastry setting. You may want to mill a little extra flour since you will need to sift the flour twice to make the cake less dense.<br />
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Combine the freshly milled whole wheat flour, baking powder and spices. Set aside.<br />
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In a separate bowl cream together the butter and sugar.<br />
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Add the eggs one at a time mixing in between.<br />
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Then add the flour mixture.<br />
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Add the buttermilk and mix until the dough is formed.<br />
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Stir in the raisins.<br />
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Pour the dough into a greased fluted cake pan.<br />
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Bake the cake for about 40 minutes until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.<br />
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Before serving you can sift powdered sugar over the cake.<br />
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ENJOY! </div>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-17763620304368984692015-08-30T14:15:00.001-07:002015-08-30T14:15:36.219-07:00officially a carlson<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEBz71SPx6oWro2tI_gq7CaIBQy2E_PTRKHv3ZzK-7Ywc_EIA3wQ0rwpxR4LL28p_MhAlBQM4Hczafyvi3uEMwvai0wtSI-aXqyV5OPl-_CYhgjn3-jOtqSNO5od0rLNtht5_ztIFiQ4/s1600/IMG_7859-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEBz71SPx6oWro2tI_gq7CaIBQy2E_PTRKHv3ZzK-7Ywc_EIA3wQ0rwpxR4LL28p_MhAlBQM4Hczafyvi3uEMwvai0wtSI-aXqyV5OPl-_CYhgjn3-jOtqSNO5od0rLNtht5_ztIFiQ4/s640/IMG_7859-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A month ago today (yes, I am behind in blogging! but at this point in my life little miss e is more important than blogging;), <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Esther officially became a Carlson</b></span>! We of course have known she was a Carlson since she was born - but it was such a wonderful and comforting feeling to have the Court confirm what we already knew. As I have said before, God has been so incredibly faithful on this adoption journey. God answered the prayers and doubts I had about adoption and gave us a daughter that I feel so incredibly blessed to be able to call mine (ours). Every day when I look at her I feel so blessed and privileged to be able to be her mor. Sometimes I just sit and stare at her and am overcome with joy and gratitude that she is our daughter. Esther has changed our lives forever in a perfect way. Even though the journey to parenthood was a long and difficult one, I wouldn't have it any other way. God has redeemed what seemed like a hopeless situation. In this process God showed His love and mercy for us - His adopted children! <br />
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I want to thank everyone who helped make this adoption possible - and most of all the woman who allowed us to become parents. She is the most selfless person I know. And I am grateful for her every day and I look forward to sharing that act of love with Esther as she grows in her understanding.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJf6cKoZor9JOQClbtm2CEzszMW6GeaJ7IkRs98_4a-_fQ4bfjRujtTR7sVkR8BX3It83-attuXun0gB_PKzbPfd9wbwp1mPH380MPp_VCoraorFxPpYDI93xniGzIxg2WTAPeV_06mug/s1600/IMG_7866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJf6cKoZor9JOQClbtm2CEzszMW6GeaJ7IkRs98_4a-_fQ4bfjRujtTR7sVkR8BX3It83-attuXun0gB_PKzbPfd9wbwp1mPH380MPp_VCoraorFxPpYDI93xniGzIxg2WTAPeV_06mug/s400/IMG_7866.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Esther was woken up from her nap in the court room and wasn't too thrilled about it so she wasn't in a smiley mood:)</td></tr>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-80734433154217183452015-07-07T19:40:00.001-07:002015-07-07T19:40:36.104-07:00father's day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I realize father's day was over two weeks ago, but life happens and I still wanted to give my amazing husband a shout out on here! Happy FIRST Father's day, Michael! You are such a wonderful husband and now father. Thank you for being such a great father to sweet Esther. We love you!<br />
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Esther "made" her first homemade card for her daddy for father's day with the help of her mor:) I helped her hold the brush and then Esther showed her artistic ability by running her hands through the paint on her own -- adding a personal touch:)<br />
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Every day we thank God for the incredible blessing we have been given to be Esther's parents and because of that getting to celebrate days such as father's day:)<br />
<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-82879460053923814872015-06-11T10:48:00.001-07:002015-06-11T10:48:37.319-07:00faetter augustWhen we went to Texas we also got to meet our nephew August for the first time. What a cutie:) Esther's cousin (aka faetter), August, is only two months younger than Esther. It was fun seeing them interact. Esther was SUPER excited to meet him and screamed with excitement and joy into August's face the first couple of times she was near him. The raw emotion frightened August a little and he wasn't sure what he thought about his kusine Esther ... but soon enough they were friends. I am sure as they grow they will have lots of fun together ... and most likely get into trouble together as well;)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">their expressions are so similar:)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what's up cuz!?</td></tr>
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Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-50718646950817878562015-06-09T08:23:00.001-07:002015-06-09T08:23:21.992-07:00and then there was a cousinWe were blessed to also travel to Texas to visit my family last month. My brother's children (aka my nephews:) have patiently been waiting for a cousin for years ... and now they finally have a cousin, and a girl cousin (aka kusine) at that! It was so fun to see them interact with each other.<br />
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This was also Esther's first time meeting her uncle (aka morbror) and auntie on my side and the first time my parents had all of their grandchildren together. What a special time of being together! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nephew selfies:)</td></tr>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-79348410003408976552015-06-06T09:26:00.001-07:002015-06-06T09:26:47.951-07:00meeting washington familyOne of Michael's sisters and family also got to meet Esther for the first time while we were in WA. So glad Esther was able to meet one of her aunties, uncles, and three of her cousins.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the cousins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnPUoblKZ4MzLHcm5s_UDFPlZJUrbW-d7FScIpuCgWYpvw-fXJbr1LACjxhS-SiHMn5fjLI-Jk6lvOQq61JWynQ39tOW_xWIWV_WPb7C1Qt0C3u1lR2xXtq3R-hjRxTOPXVoHLJkQKsg/s1600/11205185_10206606143937042_8234421549883264918_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnPUoblKZ4MzLHcm5s_UDFPlZJUrbW-d7FScIpuCgWYpvw-fXJbr1LACjxhS-SiHMn5fjLI-Jk6lvOQq61JWynQ39tOW_xWIWV_WPb7C1Qt0C3u1lR2xXtq3R-hjRxTOPXVoHLJkQKsg/s640/11205185_10206606143937042_8234421549883264918_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Esther has a lot to say apparently:)</td></tr>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-43361147009085716982015-06-05T09:27:00.000-07:002015-06-05T09:27:04.881-07:00meeting great grandmaWe only have one grandparent left between the two of us so Michael and I were excited about Esther meeting her great grandma Carlson when we were in town. One of the days Esther even had a chance to take a stroll through GG Carlson's garden. Esther loves the outdoors and especially trees - so she loved this special treat:)<br />
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-73794463546795126082015-06-04T08:44:00.001-07:002015-06-04T08:44:41.917-07:00daddy's old stompin' groundsWhile we were in Washington for the <a href="http://ourcarlsonlife.blogspot.com/2015/06/congratulations-nick-and-emily.html">wedding </a>we had the chance to go to Stanwood where Michael grew up and where most of his family still lives. So Michael had the chance to show Esther a little around where he grew up. I'm sure there is much more to come and many more stories to tell - but at least he had a chance to wet her appetite;) And Esther seemed to enjoy it:)<br />
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-1611757055264533192015-06-03T07:33:00.000-07:002015-06-03T07:33:38.438-07:00congratulations nick and emily!Last month we went to Washington state to celebrate the wedding of Nick and Emily. Michael was a groomsman so Esther and I flew in a couple of days later so Michael could participate in the groomsman festivities.<br />
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Esther did well (for a baby) for her first time flying. And I did ok too;) I did learn a couple of tricks that made flying back to Phoenix better ... All in all Esther and I survived our travels alone, but decided we prefer to have daddy along.<br />
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Since the wedding was in Washington we also had the chance to see family. Esther had the chance to meet her auntie, uncle and cousins and great grandma for the first time as well. But more about that later.<br />
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As you will notice we didn't manage to get a picture with the groom and bride (lame!), but I guess that is what happens when you attend a wedding with a baby and you flew in just hours before (lesson learned: too much packed into a day for a baby?! who knew. ha!)Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-28126685848943121722015-06-01T06:52:00.001-07:002015-06-01T06:52:46.277-07:00milling mondays: whole wheat strawberry chocolate chip cake<br />
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I had a bunch of organic strawberries I needed to use and I needed to make a dessert for company - so this seemed like the perfect solution. This cake was yummy, fresh and moist and the chocolate chips created the perfect amount of sweetness.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Whole Wheat Strawberry Chocolate Chip Cake</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>modified from<a href="http://juliasalbum.com/2014/06/strawberry-chocolate-chip-cake/"> julias album</a></i></span><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (2/3 soft wheat berries and 1/3 hard wheat berries)<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/8 tsp salt<br />
3 TBS unsalted butter, softened<br />
3 TBS Greek yogurt<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/3 cup chocolate chips plus extra for topping<br />
1 pound strawberries (fresh or frozen), hulled and halved<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
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Preheat oven to 350F<br />
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If you mill your own flour, grind your soft and hard wheat berries. I use my <a href="http://thewondermill.com/">WonderMill </a>on the pastry setting. Sift the flour twice to make the cake less dense.<br />
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Mix together the flour, baking powder and salt.<br />
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In a different bowl mix together butter, yogurt and sugar until light and fluffy. I use my Kitchen Aid Mixer, but an electrical hand mixer would work just fine. <br />
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Then mix in the egg before adding the milk and vanilla extract.<br />
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Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients a little at a time until just combined.<br />
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Fold in the chocolate chips.<br />
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Pour the batter into a prepared 9X3 inch springform pan.<br />
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Add the strawberries close together (cut side down) and add some chocolate chips to fill the gaps.<br />
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Bake the cake for 1 hour until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.<br />
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Let it cool on a rack.<br />
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ENJOY!</div>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-31929805560606912892015-05-18T10:35:00.001-07:002015-05-18T10:35:05.543-07:00milling mondays: homemade baby rice cereal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNz_xKGThmk1wUP03G_BGGlT8WxJr9C-vy-QDMPovJnxLhX3uKYmjiKS2tzYTAYWBOWY3I3bci8UCtMT-4DBNtIQRbYhttiNMo7_oIDedWEySZl9q929pOn8FliR2d6Trsy1dqo42FirI/s1600/_MG_7477-001+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNz_xKGThmk1wUP03G_BGGlT8WxJr9C-vy-QDMPovJnxLhX3uKYmjiKS2tzYTAYWBOWY3I3bci8UCtMT-4DBNtIQRbYhttiNMo7_oIDedWEySZl9q929pOn8FliR2d6Trsy1dqo42FirI/s1600/_MG_7477-001+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is common to feed babies rice cereal when they first start eating solid foods and it is SUPER easy to make yourself.<br />
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We decided to give it a try with E after trying <a href="http://ourcarlsonlife.blogspot.com/2015/04/sweet-potato-puree.html">sweet potatoes</a> for a couple of days. We figured that maybe giving her something more bland with her formula mixed in would be less of a change for her pallet and a gentle way for her to learn how to eat. And she liked it much better than the sweet potatoes. Instead of crinkling up her face and closing her mouth, she would reach for the spoon and open her mouth. So we decided to go this route for a couple of days and then return to veggies. Since then she has loved every veggie we have fed her:) </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Homemade Rice Cereal</span></b></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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<div>
1/4 cup organic short grained brown rice</div>
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1 cup water</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Bring the water to a boil.</div>
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Grind the brown rice into a powder. I of course used my <a href="http://thewonderfmill.com/">WonderMill </a>which worked great!</div>
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Add the rice powder to the boiling water while stirring. Let it simmer for 10 minutes continually whisking to make sure it doesn't clump.</div>
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Mix in breast milk or prepared formula to the desired consistency.</div>
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Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-4268729898097617612015-04-28T10:14:00.002-07:002015-04-28T10:15:08.207-07:00sweet potato puree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For a while Esther has been very interested in eating - she keeps reaching for food or drinks that Michael and I are having. Since I felt like it was too early to share my coffee or Thai curry with her;) we decided to let her try to eat some solids (with doctors approval). I think Esther had high hopes for the experience. As I lifted up the spoon to give her her first bite I looked away to say something to Michael and before I knew it she had wrapped her mouth around the spoon and taken a bite. BUT I think it ended in disappointment for her. She was so eager and then ... then her face started frowning and she wasn't as eager for the following bites. She didn't complain, but her facial expressions revealed her true feelings. Ha! I guess food wasn't all it was cracked up to be in her mind and maybe sweet potatoes just didn't taste good to her in general so we will try another veggie or fruit in the near future.<br />
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In the end I think Esther's parents had more fun with it than Esther herself:) We started the day by going to the farmers market to pick up some sweet potatoes to bring home to puree.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAGXQv6b-sVwdGo6c4NULx1-HYhQc94g1WK9EFo4NCnhva4SlkA7IygxBcTZdGYZBAAzRFvq_wNKUfUKsnt5jMSSPIUrrs0mZuGkAQBIoH7l2L47Xz8hEO4DkL0-XShP4p8K_TsC7-YU/s1600/IMG_2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAGXQv6b-sVwdGo6c4NULx1-HYhQc94g1WK9EFo4NCnhva4SlkA7IygxBcTZdGYZBAAzRFvq_wNKUfUKsnt5jMSSPIUrrs0mZuGkAQBIoH7l2L47Xz8hEO4DkL0-XShP4p8K_TsC7-YU/s1600/IMG_2015.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">farmers market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBKqNEvXzuWn3uRd-sN9B3GiTarsf8N7Qgn-zWo_yDbrCpaSuHu5mMVg6DRwaD_6rp9mKy4svhlgMopch-CUfoVCQeCSobEGlp50VmM6Qp2BqZWBWB-ESfH0lpansNjZA4Y0r-S1XCpuM/s1600/Esther's%2Bfirst%2Bfeeding-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBKqNEvXzuWn3uRd-sN9B3GiTarsf8N7Qgn-zWo_yDbrCpaSuHu5mMVg6DRwaD_6rp9mKy4svhlgMopch-CUfoVCQeCSobEGlp50VmM6Qp2BqZWBWB-ESfH0lpansNjZA4Y0r-S1XCpuM/s1600/Esther's%2Bfirst%2Bfeeding-002.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mor and daddy - why are you posing me with a sweet potato???</td></tr>
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<b>Sweet Potato Puree</b><br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
Sweet Potatoes, peeled<br />
Water<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
After peeling the sweet potatoes cut the potatoes up into small chunks.<br />
Add the chucks to boiling water and let it boil until tender, about 15 minutes.<br />
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Then add the boiled potatoes to your blender and add some boiled potato water (or other liquid) and blend until you get the right consistency.<br />
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The pureed sweet potatoes can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days or you can freeze it as well.</div>
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This is SUPER easy to make and has no preservatives. Both characteristics that are important to me when feeding my baby. </div>
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I think it tasted just fine and even a little sweet, but for now Esther isn't the biggest fan. I guess once we start mixing food together we will try the sweet potatoes again with a fruit or something.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">even if esther wasn't the biggest fan of sweet potatoes she was super excited about her new bib:)</td></tr>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-37410264444356975202015-04-20T16:11:00.002-07:002015-04-20T16:11:43.111-07:00milling mondays: gluten free banana bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love banana bread! And this gluten free recipe does not taste gluten free in my opinion. It tastes just as yummy as when made with gluten flour. If you mill your own flour then making rice flour is super easy and inexpensive to make. So if you have some very ripe bananas that need to get used - this is a great recipe. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Gluten Free Banana Bread</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">modified from Easy Gluten-Free Baking</span></i></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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1 1/3 cup very ripe bananas, mashed</div>
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1 cup sugar</div>
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1 2/3 cups white rice flour (white rice)</div>
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1/3 cup cornstarch</div>
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1 tsp baking powder</div>
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1 tsp baking soda</div>
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1 tsp salt</div>
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1/2 tsp xanthan gum</div>
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 350F.</div>
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Mix together bananas and sugar and let it rest for 15 minutes.</div>
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Meanwhile, if you mill your own flour grind your white rice. I of course use my <a href="http://thewondermill.com/">WonderMill</a>.</div>
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Then mix together the dry ingredients - the freshly milled rice flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt and xanthan gum. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-S0gJlSxeL2m3by-flL3JCZhGIV3FEU1u0Y6PYdb2nO8APCBk4i-M8anciyk5jGzmAKdeidRkWj_Y6gcxZyU3qLa2nOD0wYnMqlvL6nv5KwnWxZfW0WupgCWQJo1zasclrDwB6Rq-8Q/s1600/_MG_7346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-S0gJlSxeL2m3by-flL3JCZhGIV3FEU1u0Y6PYdb2nO8APCBk4i-M8anciyk5jGzmAKdeidRkWj_Y6gcxZyU3qLa2nOD0wYnMqlvL6nv5KwnWxZfW0WupgCWQJo1zasclrDwB6Rq-8Q/s1600/_MG_7346.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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In a separate bowl mix butter until light and fluffy using a handheld mixer.<br />
Add in the eggs one at a time mixing well between each.<br />
Blend in half the dry ingredients stirring until smooth.<br />
Then mix in the banana sugar mixture before adding the remaining half of the dry ingredients.<br />
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Once the batter is smooth, pour it into a greased/rice floured 9x5 bread pan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRm1EhwHac5c42EmDjQFggxI0tz-lMKIMZmbRAvvsCRBW6B4W0HnaTQKnw9KBrRb5j6Y6fDVqlgzDz6foXaX-YfRbJfXed6OtDaQBGwosjJpdxnj0U6sPiFzvJFRGh8SydFajwBTQvFjE/s1600/_MG_7349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRm1EhwHac5c42EmDjQFggxI0tz-lMKIMZmbRAvvsCRBW6B4W0HnaTQKnw9KBrRb5j6Y6fDVqlgzDz6foXaX-YfRbJfXed6OtDaQBGwosjJpdxnj0U6sPiFzvJFRGh8SydFajwBTQvFjE/s1600/_MG_7349.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bake for 50-60 minutes until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. </div>
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Let it cool in the bread pan for 5 minutes before removing it from the pan and letting the banana bread cool completely on the rack. </div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2E56YJ4_GViQf0ZUVF6HsagIHw46-zQmALGk9Q6zZAJX9pZvE3yaEtghLVTqEV7WLcJSCAGTr8nIPfDCfEW7kGPPTedC8yse-Z57Rx2KAsgelVXmqHUILVeBQLhS1EpZ6uBu7er4LOc/s1600/_MG_7352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2E56YJ4_GViQf0ZUVF6HsagIHw46-zQmALGk9Q6zZAJX9pZvE3yaEtghLVTqEV7WLcJSCAGTr8nIPfDCfEW7kGPPTedC8yse-Z57Rx2KAsgelVXmqHUILVeBQLhS1EpZ6uBu7er4LOc/s1600/_MG_7352.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-27577179767143508822015-04-19T16:53:00.000-07:002015-04-19T16:53:31.035-07:00our little tennis player<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNGWxwi37Cw_QF80BTslB8Sx4iHpAzN6aBO8prNDcAW9J5IWWTn31FRKsBXAki-8XIrndpFtkPbCSjX8cTr0a1_Kx3U4iMjd0xd28p0_GDXWTq0nNliyhz-vh1i1EhrN08kIzegjmngg/s1600/IMG_1962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNGWxwi37Cw_QF80BTslB8Sx4iHpAzN6aBO8prNDcAW9J5IWWTn31FRKsBXAki-8XIrndpFtkPbCSjX8cTr0a1_Kx3U4iMjd0xd28p0_GDXWTq0nNliyhz-vh1i1EhrN08kIzegjmngg/s1600/IMG_1962.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Is four months too early to start playing tennis??? :) Having a tennis playing daddy we hope she will enjoy playing tennis when she gets a little older - at least with her daddy and mor. </div>
Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-28988709150060988922015-04-06T09:05:00.001-07:002015-04-07T11:08:23.746-07:00milling mondays: whole wheat bishop's cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Whole Wheat Bishop's Cake</span></b><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmJvUoGPthK_suhIAdXC2eOF6h-elshBX7aVG7pFefkSkzmUSRiHSqIPtU-kaUpGL2-iYfpnqBgHNRUwbGynigaQYwLOnnFTjoVTTcv6svxbKVQAVy8p3qzjNmIgG8Z0IduZhr8sAGHI/s1600/IMG_8764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmJvUoGPthK_suhIAdXC2eOF6h-elshBX7aVG7pFefkSkzmUSRiHSqIPtU-kaUpGL2-iYfpnqBgHNRUwbGynigaQYwLOnnFTjoVTTcv6svxbKVQAVy8p3qzjNmIgG8Z0IduZhr8sAGHI/s1600/IMG_8764.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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1 cup water, boiling<br />
1/2 cup dried cranberries<br />
1/2 cup slivered almonds<br />
8 TBS unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 cup buttermilk<br />
1/2 tsp almond extract<br />
2 cups whole wheat flour (1/3 hard wheat berries and 2/3 soft wheat berries)<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chunks<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
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Preheat oven to 350F.<br />
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Pour boiling water over dried cranberries and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Toast almonds in a pan until beginning to brown.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKq0B5efhyrerQvKFhkoKgnsNa2_nZrQD0Gne5vW2Jambhimmz4K1TZFuq_bP2pZOQseu_tfMG2QF6cS38Q5CKb8HVR1CHsvgIayHadcrdxVuj5Xt6PHDtnuQXwX6RudEIqYqXMlpwf64/s1600/IMG_8760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKq0B5efhyrerQvKFhkoKgnsNa2_nZrQD0Gne5vW2Jambhimmz4K1TZFuq_bP2pZOQseu_tfMG2QF6cS38Q5CKb8HVR1CHsvgIayHadcrdxVuj5Xt6PHDtnuQXwX6RudEIqYqXMlpwf64/s1600/IMG_8760.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.<br />
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Then mix in the eggs one at a time.<br />
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Finally, add in the buttermilk and almond extract.<br />
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If you mill your own flour, grind the hard and soft wheat berries. I use my <a href="http://thewondermill.com/">WonderMill </a>on the pastry setting. Sift the flour twice to make the cake less dense.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nkIHp7UalEPt-yfXknSKXoqZHeHhPrPzwnaWZdujwWBKLAvDWTZaxxB97z4Jb0wxlfQrx8VBflztk7Uh6s7Cif8lyBG37fky8ewlEsV4h5s2CGeyr2qpTqLYPjV-aWLdyuvFK_0pCg4/s1600/_MG_4970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nkIHp7UalEPt-yfXknSKXoqZHeHhPrPzwnaWZdujwWBKLAvDWTZaxxB97z4Jb0wxlfQrx8VBflztk7Uh6s7Cif8lyBG37fky8ewlEsV4h5s2CGeyr2qpTqLYPjV-aWLdyuvFK_0pCg4/s1600/_MG_4970.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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In a separate bowl mix together the freshly milled flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.<br />
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Then add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients a little at a time. Mix until just combined.<br />
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Drain water from the dried cranberries and s<span style="background-color: white;">tir them into the dough alon</span>g with the toasted almonds and chocolate. <br />
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Pour the dough into a prepared <span style="background-color: white;">9x13 </span>pan and bake for about 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.<br />
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Let it cool on a rack for about 10 minutes.<br />
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Enjoy!</div>
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-33689133870064315242015-04-05T15:44:00.001-07:002015-04-05T15:44:53.652-07:00happy easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzYBhny3ELFnepsBBmmYv0rB8PuzaLYGd332snH6teqlj8Z4ZzKk5y6pqWFs3SDoTo_vdseBj68gc2eCcsk0Z7__l-upx4I4oe7T2Gu6fKJDzD2q1-HxuT-wWn2DZYZaimMzfrDY4W80/s1600/IMG_7303-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzYBhny3ELFnepsBBmmYv0rB8PuzaLYGd332snH6teqlj8Z4ZzKk5y6pqWFs3SDoTo_vdseBj68gc2eCcsk0Z7__l-upx4I4oe7T2Gu6fKJDzD2q1-HxuT-wWn2DZYZaimMzfrDY4W80/s1600/IMG_7303-002.JPG" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
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happy easter from the carlsons!</div>
Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-71332874805853661292015-04-04T16:52:00.001-07:002015-04-04T16:52:57.203-07:00did someone say easter bunny?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-57599939677527095082015-01-30T09:28:00.000-07:002015-01-30T09:28:48.583-07:00joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I absolutely love being a mor (aka mom)! I always wanted to be a mother, but you never know what the experience is truly like until you are doing it. And I love it! Esther is such a joy to be around. She loves to smile. I took these pictures a couple of weeks ago, but I see this smiling face all day long:) She is obviously a baby and has needs that a baby has and my body aches and I am sleep deprived ... but when I look into her eyes and see her smile (or even when she cries ... does any one else find baby cries adorable?) it is all so worth it! I have a Type A personality for the most part and I have been surprised how it hasn't really bothered me that my house isn't picked up and that there are millions of things on my to do list ... I mean I would love to get those things done, but if it is between getting those things done and spending time with sweet little Esther (even if she is fussy) - I choose Esther every time. I am so thankful for this little girl. I feel so privileged to be able to be her mor. I know that I may be in the honeymoon phase and some days are harder than others ... but I truly believe that I am doing what I feel called to do. I just love our little family and I am so thankful for the sacrifice of so many that has allowed this incredible blessing of God. God has been so faithful and it has filled my heart with so much joy!Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-38490960480994718252015-01-29T10:28:00.000-07:002015-01-29T10:28:26.328-07:00diy thursday: birthday freebies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was my birthday earlier this month and I got to enjoy some birthday freebies:) I love a good deal and FREE food qualifies for that ... and it is even better at restaurants you like eating at even when it's not free:) This year it looked a little different since we had a newborn baby in tow - but we made a few adjustments and still got to enjoy most of the free meals we usually get.<br />
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I have had several people ask me about my list of birthday freebies so I thought I would list some of my favorites.<br />
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I will start with the ones that require an ID - meaning you have to eat there on your actual birthday and prove it with your ID. We live in Arizona in the East Valley so we can enjoy what my husband refers to as the <i>triple threat</i>: Liberty Market, Joe's Farm Grill and Joe's BBQ. They all give you $10 towards your meal - which is pretty much a free meal at these places. YUM!<br />
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Another two places I usually visit on my birthday because they require ID is Firehouse Subs (free medium sub) and Dutch Bros (free large drink) ... yes Dutch Bros is a must! Chompies also offers a free breakfast and so does Denny's on your actual birthday, but I usually don't take advantage of those - just not enough space in my stomach.<br />
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There are lots of places you can sign up for email updates that will send you a coupon for a free meal/snack/drink on your birthday. Some of my favorites are The Keg ($25 towards an entree),Grimaldi's Pizza (free large pizza one topping up to $18), Which Which (free small sub), Jason's Deli ($5 towards meal), Mellow Mushroom ($5 towards meal), Genghis Grill (free regular bowl), Schlotzsky's (free small sandwich), Rubios (free entree), Starbucks (free drink), Dunkin Donuts (free medium drink), Krispy Kreme (free doughnut and coffee), Sprinkles Cupcakes (free cupcake), Culvers (free ice cream)<br />
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There are also lots of places that will send you coupons for BOGO type of offers such as Benihana, Zoes Kitchen, Cold Stone, Dairy Queen, Auntie Anne's Pretzels, Bruegger's Bagles, Johnny Rockets or lots of places that offer a free dessert if you buy an entree. I don't love these offers because they are really not giving you much free since you end up spending money on a meal when you otherwise wouldn't have gone to that restaurants. Places I will take advantage of this kind of deal are places like Fox Restaurant Concepts (free dessert with entree purchase) or Postino (free dessert with entree purchase) - because those restaurants are just so yummy and any excuse to go .... right?:)<br />
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There are also lots of places you can get free items or money if you are on their email list such as Ulta, Sephora, World Market etc.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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PS. I am sorry I didn't include links to all of these places, but with a newborn I opted for not spending the time adding the links ... I will try to do that soon. In the meantime a simple Google search should do the job if you aren't familiar with the restaurant URL:)<br />
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<br />Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5581707834185830302.post-82996534692551856712015-01-01T11:30:00.000-07:002015-01-01T11:30:47.839-07:00happy new year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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happy new year from THIS girl and her parents:) we look forward to seeing what 2015 has in store.</div>
Signehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08253677635664206169noreply@blogger.com0