Wednesday, December 29

fungal findings

Peziza repanda, nonpoisonous, found at Moore Creek in Santa Cruz.

Monday, December 27

Craft Time

Therapeutic Rice Bag  
Use an old cotton shirt or buy some cotton fabric- I used flannel because its really soft. Using a sewing machine, make a rectangular bag leaving one side open.  
Mix together basmati rice and a bit of lavender, depending on how potent you want it.
 
Fill the bag about 2/3 full with the rice mixture. 
Finish it off by sewing together the other side. 
Microwave for 1-2 minutes for a warm aromatic treat.
 Perfect to use in the winter weather!

Sunday, December 26

winter wonders




Really enjoyed having Christmas in Truckee this year! The snowy scenery was wonderful and so were finding bunny trails. ---And I love my new camera!

Friday, December 24

Christmas Goodies

Holiday Spiced French Macaroons sandwiched with Cream Cheese frosting


Chocolate Almond Bark with Caramel and White Chocolate.
*
Merry Christmas!

Wednesday, December 22

in for a treat




Received my first issue of Cook's Illustrated.
Great recipes and advice. Not to mention, they have beautiful art on the front and back cover. The January/February 2011 issue covers Chili, Thin-Crust Pizza, Glazed Salmon and Gingerbread Cake. Yum!

Tuesday, December 21

Chocolove


 
Just reminiscing about the Chocolate course I took this last summer. We learned everything from bean to bar. And I created these beauties, Orange Cream Dark Chocolate Truffles.

Monday, December 20

my first mushroom


Identified this little guy in my parents Foothill backyard. Agaricus arvensis, also known as the "Horse Mushroom." According to my guide, North American Mushrooms: A Field Guide to Edible and Inedible Fungi, it says they're edible and choice. But I think I'll wait on eating one until I'm not so new at this!