A Wonderful Memorial Day... in the hay field!

What a wonderful Memorial Day we shared here at the Binford house.  During breakfast we talked about why we celebrate Memorial Day and what it means.  I am continually amazed at the knowledge my children retain!  We talked about freedom and the price our soldiers pay to make sure America remains free!  Pickles is always full of questions, and wanted to know if we have any family members in the military.  So, we learned that my Dad, and both Grandpa's were in the military, as well as Daddy's Dad and Grandfather.  Even though we are a day late, thank you to all who serve and protect our freedom.

I would also like to say thank you to all the loved ones who are left behind while their soldier is away.  I can't imagine what it must be like to keep everything going at home and the worry and uncertainty they face during this time.  Thank you too!

When you are involved in agriculture, Mother Nature determines your schedule.  Yesterday, we had to help Scott in the hay field.  I took a break from watching him bale hay at a neighbor's place, and went back to our farm to "re-plant" our corn.  Not too sure what Scott did when he planted it the first time, but if it is not too late, we should have corn the second time!  I don't know what I was thinking, but it sure was hot out there after lunch.  You know it is hot when Pickles has given up on riding her 4-wheeler and instead submerges her head in the water trough.  I wish I had my camera, because the look on her face was priceless when she was carelessly dipping her head and she flipped her hair with all the water in it, and realized there was a cow right behind her!  Not just any cow, but one of the super friendly longhorn cows.  I knew she wouldn't hurt her, but it was a sight to see. 

Trying to keep two children entertained while you are sitting waiting on Daddy can be a challenge, but even more so when they are hot, tired and their clothes are wet.  We waited, and waited and waited some more.  I finally resorted to my Mom's old tactics, and we started looking at all things in nature.  Finally, Pickles was interested, and the questions began like rapid-fire!  Anyway, we found a beautiful flower, all alone by it's self on the side of the road.  My Mom called this Queen Ann's Lace, and I don't know why it was called that, but I will do some research and let you and my 7 year-old in on the mystery!

Pickles and her lonely flower.  We had to bring it home with us...

Last night, I tried something I have never tried before.  In the spirit of grilling and Memorial day, I grilled a turkey!  We are trying to watch our weight, and I thought turkey would be the perfect leftover for salads this week.  I must say it was super delicious! Next time I will brine the turkey before I grill it, but it was still good just straight out of the package.  I simply seasoned the outside with olive oil and salt and pepper.  Placed it over a drip pan on indirect heat, and put the lid on.  The package said to cook it 11-15 minutes per pound.  My fire was too hot, and ours was a little overdone, but still a great taste and a learning experience.  I think I will go to the grocery store and pick up another one, and try again!



My bird...stuffed with an onion...




The delicious turkey.  Definitely not Thanksgiving turkey!

 Until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life!

Sarah

Refreshing Porch Punch...Great for the Sultry Days of Summer

On of the lessons I learned living in Mississippi is you always have refreshments to offer guests.  You never know who is going to stop by, and I love it! My front porch faces East, and is often enjoyed in the afternoon with friends catching up, and swating mosquitos. 

Unlike in Oklahoma, your front porch is another extension of your home. I guess the Oklahoma wind prohibits decorating your porch like another room because you would find your decorations in the neighbors yard.  Anyway, I can remember my first visit to Scott's Mom's and couldn't believe she had table cloths on the outside tables, just because.  They weren't about to sit down to eat, they were this way all the time!  I still remember mentioning it to Scott, and he thought I was crazy.  That is until he visited Oklahoma in the summer and the wind never stopped blowing!

With the lack of wind, a gentle breeze is a welcome treat on a summer afternoon, much like that delicious glass of porch punch.  I have been a tea drinker my entire life, and know that my Mom had a glass of tea at all times.  Usually in a styrofoam cup, and it was afixed to her hand.  She would have loved this recipe, and its wonderfully complex taste.  I encourage you to try this, as it is super simple, and your friends will think you are extremly talented!

I don't have a hard time finding mint.  My neighbor has a huge patch of it growing in her yard.  Mint thrives here, and I am amazed that I spot it in yards all over town!  The mint is the key to this beverage.  You can find mint in the produce section of your grocery store, or at your local garden center.  Be careful if you plant mint in your yard, as it will take over.  I have some in a pot, and it has thrived year after year.

I hope you enjoy this refreshing beverage to entertain guests, or to simply after a long day.  Until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life!

Sarah



Refreshment in a glass...come and join us on the porch!

 Porch Punch

1 family size tea bag
12 large mint leaves
1 package (2 qt.) sweetened lemonaid drink mix, I used Crystal Light
4 cups boiling water

Bring water to a boil, and pour over tea bag and mint leaves in a heat proof container.  Cover and allow to steep for 30 minutes to 1 hour.  Remove tea bag and mint leaves and add drink mix.  Stir well, and add enough water to make 2 quarts.  Serve over ice with a garnish of mint and a lemon wedge.

Lettuce, a Gardening Success!

Let's just say I have not had the best luck with early season vegetables.  I tried to plant English peas, and they looked great, until some critter decided they tasted great for a nice cozy garden side dinner.  My lettuce I planted on the other hand has been absolutely fabulous.  I forgot how great fresh lettuce tastes.  I can remember as a child my Grammy fixing "Wilted Lettuce."  No matter how bad I wanted to not like this warm salad, it was so delicious we ate at least on serving and maybe two!

Thinking back to those childhood memories, we would only have Wilted Lettuce if they had fresh lettuce in their garden.  The store bought variety that was picked a few days ago would never taste as good. I am curious if any of my cousins remember this treat as well?  I am going to try and make some today and I will share this fabulous recipe.  I am not sure of the exact amounts, but it is pretty simple.  Bacon, bacon grease, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper and if you are feeling exotic, a hard boiled egg.  This is one of the most basic of salads, and is very good, but is rarely made.  I can't remember making this in my adult life, but I have never had fresh lettuce before!

With this abundance of lettuce, you can imagine the plain ole salad is just about as tasty as cardboard.  I feel like I have eaten lettuce every meal.  I can promise you, I have been trying, as it is healthy for you.  Anyway, last night I decided to change up my flavor profile, and the outcome was simply delicious.  I love a great Japanese salad.  You know the kind with the ginger and garlic dressing.  Some places it has a red tint, others it is orange, and some use a mayonnaise base, and it is white.  Regardless of the variation, I decided to make my own. I must say, it stirred together quickly and was delicious.

I hope that everyone is enjoying the start of summer!  I know that we will be grilling and cooking out this weekend, and I hope to share some fun new recipes.  This salad will be a great addition to your grilled menu, and it was a great compliment to the steak I had for dinner...

Happy Memorial Day everyone, and until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life!

Sarah



My beautiful salad with fresh lettuce...





My lettuce patch...I have loved watching it grow and grow...Hopefully it will last a few more weeks...



Ginger Garlic Vinigarette

I made just enough for two small salads...feel free to make as much as you need...

4 to 5 drops sesame oil, be careful, this is a very strong flavored oil.  You can omit if you don't like the taste.

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 clove of garlic, finely grated

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1/2 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard

salt and pepper to taste

In a medium bowl, whisk all ingredients until combined.  Allow to sit for a few minutes for flavors to combine.  Toss with lettuce, and enjoy a delicious salad!



This is what the mixture looks like...you could add ketchup if you want it red...



The Start of Summer

Today, the Binford family officially kicked summer vacation into high gear. We loaded up in the car, and headed on an afternoon adventure to the swimming pool!  I know, exciting news on the home front!  I am not saying this to be ornery, but it is one of the symbolic first steps to reaffirm that summer is upon us.

Pickles was overly excited to go and play with her friends, but The Little Man loved every second of his time in the water.  The Little Man made some new friends, and kept his cool, even as the older boys were squirting him with a water gun!  He soon learned he could splash and not get into trouble, and then water war was officially declared!  I am amazed at how much my children love to swim, and I guess they come by it honestly.  I can remember as a child staying at the pool from the time it opened, until it closed.  Since there was not a pool close to where we lived, it was a great treat to go to "swimming lessons" at Camp C Andy and have two weeks of structured swim time. The remainder of the summer, any chance we had to swim, was definitely highlight of the week!




He loves to splash...


Today, we had to cut our swimming time short, but I am sure that we will spend many hours this summer playing in the water to make up for the lost time.  Pickles has already planned our day tomorrow, and has made sure to check the timing of the rain tomorrow to make sure she doesn't miss out on any time at the pool. 

Tonight, my heart is heavy thinking about and praying for those in Oklahoma and Kansas who have been affected by tornadoes and severe weather.  It is amazing that technology has allowed so many to survive such massive tornadoes.  I know that there will be many stories of survival that will prevail, and the tragedies will bring everyone closer together.  It is these trials that ultimately make us stronger and unite us all.

Until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life.

Sarah

Polly Pie... Just like my Mom used to make.

This afternoon, I was looking for something in the freezer, and stumbled upon a bag of wild blackberries.  I love berries of all kinds, but especially blackberries.  A friend shared these wild berries with me last summer, and I have been saving them for a special occasion, and decided today would be the day that I use them.  Nothing says summer like fresh berries, and with the humidity today, I am thinking summer is just around the corner!

My mom was a great cook, and rarely used a recipe.  She loved to read recipes, but when it came time to cook, she would stir in a little of this, and pinch of that, and we would end up with a delicious creation.  I know my love of cooking was due to her and her gentle way she taught us in the kitchen.  She was always welcoming us to help her in any way, and had patience like I never will!  I can remember my sister adding random ingredients to a bowl.  Mom was watching her closely out of the corner of her eye, and when she was finished, added some baking powder and a little more milk, and we had pancakes!  She always made time to cook with us, and by the tender age of nine, I can remember cooking on my own. 

Today I share with you her recipe for Polly Pie.  I am not sure who Polly was, but she definitely knew how to cook.  Mom would stir this together if she needed a dessert in a hurry.  You can use any fruit you have on hand, be it fresh, frozen or canned.  Some fruits might need to be sweetened or thickened a little, so use your best judgement.  Today, I used my wild blackberries, and since they were pretty tart, I stirred in a little sugar and about 1/2 cup of flour. They were pretty wet from being frozen, but should be quite tasty.  Peaches are an excellent choice, so are blueberries or cherries.  I like to add nutmeg and cinnamon to peaches, and maybe a little lemon to the berries.  Use your imagination and you too will be surprised how great Polly Pie can be!



My beautiful blackberry Polly Pie!



Until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life!

Sarah

Polly Pie

1 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 stick butter, melted
fruit

Place fruit in a deep baking dish, and if necessary add a little flour to thicken, and some sugar to sweeten.  Stir together flour sugar and egg until it makes a coarse crumble.  Spoon on top of the fruit.  Drizzle with the melted butter.  Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until crust is golden brown.  Enjoy!

To Oklahoma and Back...

Where in the world has May gone?  It was just yesterday we celebrated Christmas, and now, we are almost finished with May. It has been a few weeks since I have written, and I apologize to those who check on me daily.  I love to blog, and can't believe I have been too busy.  I guess life will slow down eventually.

Last week, we shortened our school calender and made a very important trip to Oklahoma!  My sister graduated from nursing school!  We are so proud of her, and wanted to make sure we were there to help her celebrate and witness the event.  It is always fun when we visit our family, but it seems there is not enough time to go around.  Between all of the events surrounding Elise's graduation, and my nieces dance recital, we were left running the entire time!  If we missed you, I am truly sorry, and we will catch up on the next visit!



Elise getting her nursing pin...




And then the next night...her diploma!




The graduate!  We are all so proud!




Elise and her husband Tom.  He was so proud of her!




Always the clown!  Where is my diploma?




Me and my Sister!  I love her and am so proud of her!!!




My adopted niece C.J., opening the Oklahoma ballet!




My niece Makenzie, leading the line out on pointe!




Jordan and Makenzie...such beautiful Oklahoma ballerinas!




The nieces after the show!  I think the florists made out like bandits!



I would have posted this earlier, but after our whirlwind visit, I came down with a pesky cold, and now my little ones are puny too.  The Little Man just can't shake this mess.  We are now on another round of antibiotics, and hopefully this will make him feel better. 

Just to bring you up to speed, our gardens are in full swing.  Everything is planted, and the corn should be popping through the soil any day.  Hopefully we will have a bumper crop of vegetables!  My little garden is complete with 20 tomato plants, 4 pepper plants, cucumbers, green beans, squash and zucchini.  Hopefully we will eat better with such an abundance of fresh vegetables! I am so ready for the fruits of our labors to pay off.

Until next time, keep adventuring and looking or joy in the small details of life!

Sarah

The Flood of the Century

Today, the waters of the Mississippi are expected to crest, and hopefully begin going back down.  Here in the Mid-South, we have experienced water like never before.  Yesterday, I had to attend to some business in Memphis, and there is water everywhere.  If you have never experienced a flood, it is not a pretty picture.  I didn't realize how bad the smell was!  It smells like sewer everywhere you go. 

Here in Como, we are in no danger of flooding.  We are away from all creeks and tributaries that might possibly back up during this process.  The flooding, has caused me so distress. You see, I am trying to get to Oklahoma to attend my sister's pinning and graduation, and a section of I-40 is closed.  During the history of the interstate system, I-40 has never flooded, but it is now.  I heard this morning that the Eastbound stretch is now opened, but Westbound is still closed.  So here I am trying to discover a way around I-40 that will take me to Oklahoma.  I will get there one way or another, but really don't want to go the other way, and make a 10 hour drive stretch into 14. 

Anyway, I keep praying for all of those that are affected.  My little logistical nightmare is nothing compared to those who have been forced from their homes, and don't know when they will be able to go back.  This photo was taken while driving across Arkansas last week.  It is really a flood of tragic proportions.

Until next time, keep adventuring and looking for joy in the small details of life.

Sarah

The Derby means a Social Affair

There is something to be said for an event where everyone dresses up in their finest frocks and sports a lovely and stylish hat.  I am not talking about the Royal Wedding, but rather the Kentucky Derby. The one horse race that I try and watch every year.  We have made it a tradition to have everyone over to watch the fastest moment in sports.  It is great fun to try and pick a horse, and then cheer them on to the finish!

I think this year, we will have some sort of a get together.  Typically we have a light snack, and definitely a mint julep.  I don't have all the silver julep cups, but no one seems to mind.  I do have one, so I make sure that one is used as well.  If it is just family, the affair is much more low key than if guests are invited.  I know of people who have all day parties that linger into the night.

Traditionally a Derby party is not complete without Kentucky ham and a julep, but this is an opportunity to share with those you love and make your own style.  The biggest thing is to wear a hat and enjoy a moment where everyone won't think you are crazy!  I am not sure what hat I will pick out, but I will definitely share a picture with you after the event.

Here is a recipe for a Mint Julep that will make you feel like you too are at the Derby.  This is courtesy of Food Network, and you might find one you like better.

Mint Julep

4 cups bourbon

2 bunches fresh spearmint

1 cup distilled water

1 cup granulated sugar

Powdered sugar

Directions:

To prepare mint extract, remove about 40 small mint leaves. Wash and place in a small bowl. Cover with 3 ounces Bourbon. Allow the leaves to soak for 15 minutes. Then gather the leaves in paper toweling. Thoroughly wring the mint over the bowl of whisky. Dip the bundle again and repeat the process several times.

To prepare simple syrup, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of distilled water in a small saucepan. Heat to dissolve sugar. Stir constantly so the sugar does not burn. Set aside to cool.

To prepare mint julep mixture, pour 3 1/2 cups of bourbon into a large glass bowl or glass pitcher. Add 1 cup of the simple syrup to the bourbon.

Now begin adding the mint extract 1 tablespoon at a time to the julep mixture. Each batch of mint extract is different, so you must taste and smell after each tablespoon is added. You are looking for a soft mint aroma and taste-generally about 3 tablespoons. When you think it's right, pour the whole mixture back into the empty liter bottle and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours to "marry" the flavors.

To serve the julep, fill each glass (preferably a silver mint julep cup) 1/2 full with shaved ice. Insert a spring of mint and then pack in more ice to about 1-inch over the top of the cup. Then, insert a straw that has been cut to 1-inch above the top of the cup so the nose is forced close to the mint when sipping the julep.

When frost forms on the cup, pour the refrigerated julep mixture over the ice and add a sprinkle of powdered sugar to the top of the ice. Serve immediately.

Kisses of the Little Boy Variety

There is something about little boy kisses, the type of affection that lets you know you are still queen of their hearts, but they are definitely up to something.  I am not too sure what it is, but they melt me every time.  I know I should be a little firmer, but just when I think I am ready to pull my hair out by the fistfuls, my Little Man will share a moment of affection that makes the disaster seem like a small occurrence rather than the full storm and the aftermath that follows. 

On a daily basis, I am challenged  by my children.  They are so different from each other, but yet, so similar.  The Little Man is pure boy; Wild, fearless and wide-open. He has one agenda, and that is his own.  Pickles on the other hand is a princess; sweet, prissy and very loving.  She is a people pleaser and wants to make sure everyone is happy and taken care of.

I not too sure If these differences are somehow related to gender, or just simply their own unique personality.  One thing I have learned is that they both know affection is the way to make Mommy happy! 

Today has been a whirlwind.  I have decided to embark on a part-time consulting position, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to exercise my mind.  Not that being a Mommy is not challenging enough, but I needed to shake it up.  This morning, I had a meeting, and they said it was fine to bring the Little Man.  Enough said.  He was horrible, but as I was ready to wring his little blond curly neck, he smiled and said, but "I wuv you Mommy!" How can you be mad at that! 



A sweet little boy with sweet little drool!



Sweet little grins...a way to everyone's heart!

Silly Girl!

 This evening, just as I am removing the Little Man from his high chair, he grabs my cheeks, and give me a kiss.  The type of groddy, slobbery kiss that only a Mommy can appreciate.  It is in these moments, that I am truly thankful for my children, and all of the messes they make.  They will make a great story one day!

Until next time, cherish those groddy kisses, and look for joy in the unexpected moments.

Sarah