tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75971044484939494722024-03-20T03:02:52.568-04:00GleezaRandom musings, observations, comments, ideas and tips from a unique individual living in an ever changing world.Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-24743584687458850162013-07-01T01:04:00.000-04:002013-07-01T01:04:00.817-04:00DIY Recycle Upcycle Garden Decor I once had a favorite bowl, unfortunately that favorite bowl cracked and was deemed unusable. I couldn't stand to trash it, so I kept in knocking around from shelf to shelf in the garage until I could figure out what to do with it. Finally it dawned on me... Garden Décor and BirdBath!!<br />
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So with a few terra cotta clay pots, rubber cement glue, a few pretty colors from Krylon, this is what I came up with. I love my new bird bath!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jiI3F156C9rD5BxOlKBAqrcYXLPoOk0gET_u-hEk_7xBE9aqF6_5cHhWMM3ECv_sBZ9Cn7o7YP5WtopBTPl5qFKyrkilxIsq0gkjihXFm46SlR2VbHcmmqfyiVTM-BmrnAtRJqIZqI8E/s1600/GleesBirdBath.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jiI3F156C9rD5BxOlKBAqrcYXLPoOk0gET_u-hEk_7xBE9aqF6_5cHhWMM3ECv_sBZ9Cn7o7YP5WtopBTPl5qFKyrkilxIsq0gkjihXFm46SlR2VbHcmmqfyiVTM-BmrnAtRJqIZqI8E/s640/GleesBirdBath.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-21574399351910069532013-06-26T09:00:00.000-04:002013-06-26T09:00:02.404-04:00DIY Garden Project - Tilted Plant Tower<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZi3UJ9WaP0DKeA646COIJUSn_KMcA4pYuIoSJyoSx9ZT0eyaaKycZyLRNkZgiIX0tgVInrgtRAHCBr071D_p3nwha0QWrD-dmJA1FFFHrZiCyGniUvMtZRn0xHq5jr6Py6vmi73Ld9VG/s1600/gleePlantertower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZi3UJ9WaP0DKeA646COIJUSn_KMcA4pYuIoSJyoSx9ZT0eyaaKycZyLRNkZgiIX0tgVInrgtRAHCBr071D_p3nwha0QWrD-dmJA1FFFHrZiCyGniUvMtZRn0xHq5jr6Py6vmi73Ld9VG/s320/gleePlantertower.JPG" width="240" /></a>I discovered this wonderful idea on Pinterest and had to make one for my own garden. Using various sizes of terra cotta pots, some old, some new, several cans of Krylon spray paint, a piece of steel rebar, potting soil and plants, you too can make one of these awesome towers for your yard.<br />
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I followed the instructions found here: <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Tipsy-Pots-Tower-Planter/" target="_blank">Tipsy Pots Tower Planter</a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0mLO8OD3y5iSv5Ncg4Uew_5IsP7KFkbITyyCZx5HWB-GZ91TJqxwbTkF6coLe74fJscMbtuS1BILAF3sUFjRoEC4USG0VEzF8F-enliSPPQYEhQPKD-gadYUrPYfFvHjBn9DOeflS0gO/s1600/gleeTower1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0mLO8OD3y5iSv5Ncg4Uew_5IsP7KFkbITyyCZx5HWB-GZ91TJqxwbTkF6coLe74fJscMbtuS1BILAF3sUFjRoEC4USG0VEzF8F-enliSPPQYEhQPKD-gadYUrPYfFvHjBn9DOeflS0gO/s400/gleeTower1.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
<span id="goog_1074530981"></span><span id="goog_1074530982"></span><br />Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-87066256735910559422013-06-18T08:30:00.000-04:002013-06-18T08:30:00.657-04:00More Hurricane Season Tips and AdviceIt's another year and it's hurricane season once again. This year's Atlantic Hurricane Season got off to an early start with Tropical Storm Andrea, which impacted the State of Florida and U.S. East Coast with heavy rains and several tornados. Hopefully our luck will continue to hold out and no devastating hurricane will hit our shores, however logic and nature suggests that it's just a matter of time and it only takes one to possibly change our landscapes and lives forever. So it is the best interest of each person to take responsibility for his or her self and immediate family and be prepared to be self sufficient for a minimum of three days, though I prefer two weeks.<br />
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In earlier entries, I have suggested several general and basic tips, along with links for additional information, so take a minute to review those if you're new to Hurricane preparedness.<br />
<a href="http://gleeza.blogspot.com/2011/08/hurricane-season-reminder.html" target="_blank">Hurricane Preparedness Tips</a><br />
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<a href="http://gleeza.blogspot.com/2010/06/hurricane-season-2010-begins.html" target="_blank">Hurricane Preparedness Basics</a><br />
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In this year entry, we'll discuss ways of securing your valuables, documents and having accurate records of your home's contents for your insurance company, should disaster strike.<br />
Instead of waiting for disaster to strike and not being able to find all the necessary documentation or contacts you may need, it's is better to gather this information ahead of time and review at beginning of every hurricane season, making note to include any updates or changes.<br />
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The Following items should be kept in a waterproof container on or near your person, should you need to make a quick evacuation, copies of all of the following should also be kept in another location such as with relatives out of state, in your office, safe deposit box, etc. I prefer to scan a copy of all of the items and save to an external hard drive.<br />
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Home Owner's Insurance Policy<br />
Flood Insurance Policy<br />
Mortgage Company Contact Information and Account Information<br />
Any Deeds, Titles, pertaining to any Property you own<br />
Car Registration, Title, etc.<br />
Car Loan Company and Car Insurance Policy and Contact information<br />
Medical and Dental Insurance Cards or Contact Information<br />
Electric Power and Other Utility Invoices/Statements with contact and Account Information<br />
(Water, Cable, Gas, Oil, Sewer etc.)<br />
Passport, Social Security Card, Birth Certificates, Naturalization Papers, Green Card etc.<br />
Driver's License<br />
Banking Information (accounts statements, safe deposit box key, etc.)<br />
Credit Card Statements with Account and Contact Information<br />
*External Hard Drive with digital photos of your Home Inventory or actual photographs of your Home inside and out.<br />
Phone Book with contact information for friends, family, businesses such as Doctors, Roofer, Plumber, etc.<br />
I would also include some Cash and any jewelry or irreplaceable momentos or photos in this container.<br />
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<strong>Taking Inventory of Your Home</strong><br />
You're probably like me and don't have or can't find all the receipts for every purchase major or not that you have made, so here is where your camera and smartphone if you have one comes in handy.<br />
There are several apps available that you can download to your phone or tablet that will allow you to take photos and create an inventory of your house room by room.<br />
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With your phone, tablet or camera walk through each room of your house, take pictures of the entire room from different angles. In each room, take individual pictures of any high priced items such as televisions, computers, furniture etc. Photograph your closet, your shoes, your bags. Take pictures of ALL of the Contents of your house. You can approximate cost of replacement from your pictures if the items are damaged, however if you do recall how much you paid, please document in your inventory and include picture of the item.<br />
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Do the same thing to the exterior of your house, take pictures of your landscape, house, cars, fence, etc. Also take pictures of your shutters and other outdoor preparation once after they have been made.<br />
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Store all of this information on an external hard drive or portable back up that you will be able to access from any computer should disaster strike. Your hard drive or physical hard copy of your inventory should be included with the above items in your waterproof container.<br />
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May we never have to use these preparations, but you will sleep sounder knowing that you have gathered all of this vital information in one portable and accessible container and space.Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-70780270490803343352013-06-14T09:00:00.000-04:002013-06-14T09:00:08.541-04:00Steve Aoki Voodoo Doll and Autographed Poster<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0YiGzU1XSEhhrIKU-H-BiJYwXhtD4TJtJ803g7ddBOU4kiw2QSHeQPbRx6mOZOihBot4WZeYOdI3kUk0YexDjAqvCSC-IxoOCYCwaaLORGRbdSX8NuDRiOm03-6LYZy582nxcQOnFRXk/s1600/SteveAokiDoll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0YiGzU1XSEhhrIKU-H-BiJYwXhtD4TJtJ803g7ddBOU4kiw2QSHeQPbRx6mOZOihBot4WZeYOdI3kUk0YexDjAqvCSC-IxoOCYCwaaLORGRbdSX8NuDRiOm03-6LYZy582nxcQOnFRXk/s400/SteveAokiDoll.jpg" width="400" /></a>As I mentioned in my last entry, I was given the opportunity by DreamWave Entertainment to make cakes for Steve Aoki to cake his fans with at Club Cinema in Pompano Beach on December 13th, 2012. Not only did I make three cakes for Steve Aoki's event, I also made a Steve Aoki doll that was presented to Steve after his show. I didn't get to give it to him, but I did hear that he liked it and I did get an autographed poster, so maybe he did! I wonder if Steve Aoki still has his "voodoo" doll.<br />
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My Steve Aoki Amigurumi Doll was hand crocheted without a pattern and is as unique and one of a kind as Steve Aoki is. <br />
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-752316963665379532013-06-10T08:00:00.000-04:002013-06-10T08:00:04.970-04:00I Made Cakes for Steve Aoki<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwiNaTa0xUGNUGqmYuziQ8oXCeEgNOl9s6oTXdR1UJJo0XDkGnvCSYxe0p-9b99ZHMKxPxefZZQltGedw4MoWTRC4Y6IqAbqgv_GA0RGdSGKUZe9EYKHj6y15ok6-MFze7dWeeObsaqPSG/s1600/032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwiNaTa0xUGNUGqmYuziQ8oXCeEgNOl9s6oTXdR1UJJo0XDkGnvCSYxe0p-9b99ZHMKxPxefZZQltGedw4MoWTRC4Y6IqAbqgv_GA0RGdSGKUZe9EYKHj6y15ok6-MFze7dWeeObsaqPSG/s200/032.JPG" width="200" /></a>Last year December, DreamWave Entertainment gave me the opportunity to make cakes for the Awesome Steve Aoki. You see, Steve Aoki likes Cake. He likes cakes so much he uses them in all of his performances. People come to his shows with signs asking Steve Aoki to cake them. Steve happily obliges and tosses Cake on to his adoring fans. When I first learned about this, I was worried that someone could possibly get hurt by my cake, so I decided to make Angel Food Cake and use Whipped Cream for the frosting. These are my cakes made for the DreamWave Entertainment Presents Steve Aoki at Club Cinema December 13, 2012. You can check out Steve Aoki in action with my cakes in the slideshow below:<br />
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You can also check out clips from the actual DreamWave event at Club Cinema of Steve Aoki performing here and see him actually cake someone!!!<br />
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-14925147663278836862013-06-06T17:19:00.000-04:002013-06-06T23:26:41.334-04:00Easy Recipes for Fresh Tamarind<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0CyG1o-lT_LPg6MB76eO4jbX-61JJLyG2rSFxrZdMSvWlKjx-T2mwfx87XkFHE8WzJ2iV6zm1_STiW9J4EJWxyTodiGYe5S4v-Rectzg6e0Qwc0DQty8uIuWTayo_ePPqVBfG29ye07a2/s1600/tamarind1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0CyG1o-lT_LPg6MB76eO4jbX-61JJLyG2rSFxrZdMSvWlKjx-T2mwfx87XkFHE8WzJ2iV6zm1_STiW9J4EJWxyTodiGYe5S4v-Rectzg6e0Qwc0DQty8uIuWTayo_ePPqVBfG29ye07a2/s320/tamarind1.JPG" width="320" /></a>I love eating fresh Tamarind. It's one of my favorite tropical treats and it is a taste ingrained in me from childhood. Tamarind is grown through out the Caribbean and Tropics and even here in South Florida. Fresh tamarind can be found in the farmers markets and even in the grocery stores. It can be used to make drinks and both savory and sweet sauces. I'm going to share a few ways I like to eat my fresh tamarind. The only ingredients needed is salt, sugar, pepper and garlic. I like to use bottled hot pepper sauce and garlic paste. You can remove the seeds when making sauces or sweets but I don't mind the seeds and include them in my recipes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnGV1Isl4ci1liFHBpB61LEoBmAp8bo2bOq2HW2gDSKEZH0K6CuXzFie_QkdN09hc34d4Rn67mYonPfmWiEmtpOZCtoOq8XXcpKqTsGx71UfQjOe40nx_i8pmq15_bPihbVj0yiJRjTAd/s1600/tamarind2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnGV1Isl4ci1liFHBpB61LEoBmAp8bo2bOq2HW2gDSKEZH0K6CuXzFie_QkdN09hc34d4Rn67mYonPfmWiEmtpOZCtoOq8XXcpKqTsGx71UfQjOe40nx_i8pmq15_bPihbVj0yiJRjTAd/s320/tamarind2.JPG" width="320" /></a><strong>For a Hot and Sour Sauce</strong> - use with savory treats such as samosas<br />
1 cup shelled and segmented fresh tamarind<br />
1.5 cup water<br />
1 tsp. salt<br />
1 tbs. sugar<br />
1 tsp. garlic paste<br />
1 tsp. hot pepper sauce.<br />
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In a small pot, bring all ingredients to a boil, using the back of the spoon to squish the tamarind allowing the flesh to be released from the seeds. Once slightly cool, you can strain if you prefer to have the seeds removed. Keep refrigerated, Use within two weeks.<br />
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<strong>For a Sweet/Spicy/Tart Sauce</strong> or what we call Sour - Follow the same method as above but increase the sugar to 1 cup. The sauce should still have some sugar grains. I like to eat this with a spoon and nothing else. However you can try it on meats or fish as a glaze if you removed the seeds. Keep refrigerated, Use within two weeks.<br />
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<strong>For Tamarind balls</strong>:<br />
1 cup shelled and segmented fresh tamarind<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1 tsp. salt<br />
1 tsp. garlic paste<br />
1 tsp. hot pepper sauce (optional)<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar (white) in a small bowl<br />
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In a bowl, with clean hands Rub brown sugar into the tamarind to release flesh from seeds. If your tamarind isn't as fresh, you may need to add a few tablespoons of hot water, but you don't want this mixture to be runny, so add a spoon, rub more, add more water only if needed. Once mixture becomes a paste, add the salt, garlic and pepper, mix well. Use your hands to form little balls (about 1 tsp of mixture) roll in bowl of granulated sugar, then set aside. Store in airtight container.<br />
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<br />Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-43762310497087596682013-02-24T20:59:00.003-05:002013-02-24T21:06:59.259-05:00DIY Spring Floral WreathI love seasonal decorating and I like using wreaths on my front door to take my decorating to the outside. However I have found that wreaths can be pretty pricey, especially when you have double doors and always need two of the same. They range in price from $19.99 to $39.99 for the sizes I like and sometimes it's impossible to even find to identical ones when you find them at the price you can afford. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipu0O6XIngJlZ8g50QChTLpsYhwPWtmhlYwzAsa0IXrDFJWgzQO2eQqyRn1bBwb9W5xVrGdNork_lOT2ZcOd5cXiatzAfxBFEsfuckwO_7c_z50Ru8sDc35m5zA8m9n_YOAWu9HFW29Jkg/s1600/047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipu0O6XIngJlZ8g50QChTLpsYhwPWtmhlYwzAsa0IXrDFJWgzQO2eQqyRn1bBwb9W5xVrGdNork_lOT2ZcOd5cXiatzAfxBFEsfuckwO_7c_z50Ru8sDc35m5zA8m9n_YOAWu9HFW29Jkg/s200/047.JPG" width="150" /></a>Well being that it's almost March and Spring, I decided it was time to remove the hearts I had hanging since January after the Christmas wreaths were taken down. Not being able to find two wreaths that I was willing to dish out $$ for I decided to make my own. Michaels Stores currently have their floral garlands and many spring items on discount. These floral and beaded garlands originally priced at $6.99 were on sale for $4.19. The wire wreath frame was $2.99. The ribbon and vintage lace were taken from my craft stash. Total Cost of supplies was approximately $23.00 for TWO wreaths!!!<br />
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Simply wrap the garlands around the wire frame, add ribbon, add lace and there you have it!!! Spring Floral Wreaths!! <br />
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<br />Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-34425285243621131942013-02-10T09:27:00.000-05:002013-02-24T20:39:17.170-05:00January the Month of CakesI told myself that I would blog more this year and it looks like I'm failing!! I can't believe it's February already and I haven't added a single entry for this year yet! What can I say... I've been busy and I've been lazy. First off, Happy 2013!! We made it thru 2012!! I'm going to try to play catch up and fill you in on what I've been doing and hopefully get around to at least one entry a month. January came and went pretty quickly. For me it was Birthday month, also my husband's birthday, nephews, and cousins all celebrated birthday in January. In January we also welcomed a new nephew into the world, and we remembered the passing of my beloved Grandmother Iris. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Week Two: First Cake, Lemon was At Home Practice</td></tr>
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In January I started taking the Wilton's Cake Decorating Course at my local Michaels store. Every Monday for four weeks, I attended a two hour class where I learned tips, tricks and techniques to decorate a beautiful cake. At the beginning of the course, I didn't think I would be able to make a pretty cake like the one shown in the booklet, but as you will see, over the four weeks, anything is possible and I did it! We learned to make Buttercream Icing from scratch and then used it throughout the course to decorate our cupcakes and cakes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Week Three: Floral Cupcakes</td></tr>
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With this course and any new craft learned, practice is key. Practice is not only fun it's quite delicious and I made quite a few cupcakes and cakes, thankfully I was able to pass my creations to my family and their friends, so I didn't have eat all the sweets by myself. As you can see with just four classes and a bit of practice at home, you too can create something just as pretty. I highly recommend the Wilton's Cake Decorating class! You can sign up at your local craft store such as Michaels, JoAnns or ACMoore.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Week Four: A Pretty Decorated Cake</td></tr>
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-66934236376816379082012-12-21T21:18:00.001-05:002012-12-21T21:36:27.651-05:00I Survived Another Prophesied Doomsday As you must know by now, something crazy was supposed to happen today on December 21st, 2012. What exactly was to happen, well no one knows for sure, there were several theories floating around internet, from rogue planets to aliens, comets, blackholes, and pole shifts to name a few. Let me just put it this way, there wasn't a shortage of doom to be had. All of this doom and gloom was attributed to Mayan prophecy and a calendar that counted thousands of years into the future which supposedly ended today. Well as most of you have noticed by now, nothing out of the ordinary has happened on a global scale and the day is almost over, so relax, get out of your bunkers, put up the Christmas tree, wrap those presents for all the loved ones you are fortunate enough to spend another holiday season with, live your life to the fullest and spend, live, experience everyday as if it is your last. <br />
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But wait, you still want to know what happens next? Why were the Mayans wrong? Why didn't the world change as we know it? Well not sure how the Mayans could be wrong since the Mayans never predicted the End of the world! The Mayans calculated the end of an age, a cyclical calendar of sorts which just happens to restart today, kind of like our New Years but on a much grander scale of time. Our lives change on daily basis and each morning gives birth to new day, this winter's solstice just happen to give birth to a new age according the Mayans, perhaps an age full of changes, but that is yet to be seen. Read more about the Mayan Calendar here: <a href="http://sovera.org/?page_id=231" target="_blank">Mayans Predict 63 Million more years</a><br />
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If you are of an open mind, then you may feel that this is the dawn of a new era, perhaps one where we change our world for the better, or maybe for the worse. Regardless of how you look at the future know that it is within our capability to make our world either a better or worse place. The Mayans perhaps gave us the gift of reflection to serve as a reminder that on a grand scale we do not have control of what events may or may not happen but we can control how we live, feel and react to those events and non events. Do not wait for prophecies to change your life, enjoy it to the fullest with those you love, every day is a gift and therefore we should always live in the present! Until the next doomsday, party like it's the last party on earth!! <br />
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-11254805737130669022012-10-23T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-23T08:00:06.070-04:00Tropical Themed Cupcakes for a Tiki Party<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOx0p4z7dIBpFJh-Ocx6ftu0j6D8GZytfJXhNiclgns-c7QUcVYxcWgFJov6DCoRV9wFhapUJm17_GNUbGmNdfiOGzAeW5RQYsVG6C7xgx5BPno3GqZYNj_T6dJgOtTLya4uyX4u4ZTuN/s1600/TropicalThemeCupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOx0p4z7dIBpFJh-Ocx6ftu0j6D8GZytfJXhNiclgns-c7QUcVYxcWgFJov6DCoRV9wFhapUJm17_GNUbGmNdfiOGzAeW5RQYsVG6C7xgx5BPno3GqZYNj_T6dJgOtTLya4uyX4u4ZTuN/s320/TropicalThemeCupcakes.jpg" width="320" /></a>Earlier this year, my sister in law got married and of course there was a bridal shower before the wedding. Being me, I volunteered to help with the shower favors but not single handly of course! I had my other sister in law and nieces to help. Following the Tiki Theme that was chosen by the bride, myself and others decided to go with boxed cupcakes. For months before the shower, I practiced baking cupcakes of all flavors and attempting different decorations, in the end, simple was better and we stuck to vanilla and chocolate cupcakes. As for the decorations, being that 100 cupcakes had to be made and decorated in a short period of time, I did a combination of store bought cake toppers and candies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMtlDIt8bPsLe6emIQcnDRICkHgCi6xvMbI8tiuoiklFyEtuMH37SOgwxSKBXp7YbwnVESNKo8x93Sr1oh9siy34cu9JZ_O9b8rgHLjUGRxowjyjGszxr8nO8wMc1SklsTybAQaE4cHZF/s1600/054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMtlDIt8bPsLe6emIQcnDRICkHgCi6xvMbI8tiuoiklFyEtuMH37SOgwxSKBXp7YbwnVESNKo8x93Sr1oh9siy34cu9JZ_O9b8rgHLjUGRxowjyjGszxr8nO8wMc1SklsTybAQaE4cHZF/s200/054.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8wtkKdMFvyo1fxlnGlZOBqDLrvgWHipt3d6-n1CxLhw1W_1MDfQ01sctJ70oPZ01k3weRECLH2S3UeHms53xcUMQ_xkdxV9jR-yyk_xRp0Xsf58toSjxeIAsXgCD8yBon8-zvu0YVDN1/s1600/055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8wtkKdMFvyo1fxlnGlZOBqDLrvgWHipt3d6-n1CxLhw1W_1MDfQ01sctJ70oPZ01k3weRECLH2S3UeHms53xcUMQ_xkdxV9jR-yyk_xRp0Xsf58toSjxeIAsXgCD8yBon8-zvu0YVDN1/s200/055.JPG" width="200" /></a>The hibiscus and palm tree cupcakes were made using store bought toppers. Shredded coconut was tinted with green food coloring to represent grass, Whoppers malt balls were used as coconuts under the palm trees. <br />
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The seashells for the beach were made using Wilton candy melts and plastic molds. I prepared them a few days ahead and kept them stored in an airtight container to withstand the travel up north. After frosting the cupcakes simply dip in brown sugar and you have a beach all ready for decorating. In our hurry to prepare for the actual shower, I forgot to take a detail pic of the other beach scene cupcake (which can be seen in the first picture). All you need is Fruit Rollup or Fruit by the Foot, cut into beach size blankets, puff mints or gumballs to use as beachballs and paper cocktail umbrellas.<br />
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Now you don't need to have a party or make a hundred cupcakes or buy store bought toppers, just start with a box of cake mix, can of frosting and sugar for a sandy beach and get creative from there.<br />
However if you have the time, try adding coconut or banana or rum flavored essences to your mix for that real tropical taste.<br />
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-22315195675750364852012-10-19T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-19T08:00:01.332-04:00Fall and Halloween Decorating<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4QSbWdjg-DiOjlIL-LohBS56OiJpWiU5b4X5lxRrwMZQKH9svtJBR3lytkQpDOXSiKkGMX6IXNdoWc0EPkDnH4cxKOyG5Vf58DcLUGaxfU38KvqUvIV5QtDDKy5f_g5r7zZ9C9f6ZWcB/s1600/halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4QSbWdjg-DiOjlIL-LohBS56OiJpWiU5b4X5lxRrwMZQKH9svtJBR3lytkQpDOXSiKkGMX6IXNdoWc0EPkDnH4cxKOyG5Vf58DcLUGaxfU38KvqUvIV5QtDDKy5f_g5r7zZ9C9f6ZWcB/s640/halloween.jpg" width="494" /></a>I love to decorate for the seasons. I change curtains, I switch up floral displays, change the tablecloth, just little things, to get my home into the spirit of the season. For Fall I change my linen curtains to a rusty copper color which reminds me of orange leaves. I add autumn leaf garlands on my table and anywhere I think need a splash of color. Of course outside is where the real fun is, every year I try to add something new to the collection of yard decor. I love the grave breaker characters normally would have all over my lawn if I could, but the lawn service guy doesn't appreciate having to be extra careful around my decoration so I try to keep them confine to manageable area near the front porch. After Halloween, I will remove the scary stuff and replace them with scarecrows while keeping the fall foliage and pumpkins to continue into the Thanksgiving Holidays.<br />
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-6550325952057087162012-10-14T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-14T08:00:07.446-04:00Save A Chair - Part Two<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYCtzNwRVz1PfbeJIviafwzF3lqotJ4TnbAf_1aG3uxDNwtZnpqeodvpoCasrM4zGMjqm0M9_RIQwnQpx7qLpACdfHksMuctut7UNp_znGm97DwrHYkLwWmExKcGl-nL5p1tfflSe4tIR/s1600/ReUpholsterChair1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYCtzNwRVz1PfbeJIviafwzF3lqotJ4TnbAf_1aG3uxDNwtZnpqeodvpoCasrM4zGMjqm0M9_RIQwnQpx7qLpACdfHksMuctut7UNp_znGm97DwrHYkLwWmExKcGl-nL5p1tfflSe4tIR/s320/ReUpholsterChair1.JPG" width="240" /></a>Years ago, I picked this lovely Martha Stewart club chair in Kmart on clearance. It soon became a favorite chair among the family members and the years of love and comfort it provided took it's toll. Juice and soda spills and lots greasy little hands prints made this chair unsightly. The poor chair had to be hidden in corner of the new house, covered in an ill fitting store bought chair cover. It was still everyone's favorite chair but no one wanted to look at it or sit in it anymore. I was too attached to get rid of it, so I decided it was time to Save A Chair again!<br />
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Referring back the original <a href="http://gleeza.blogspot.com/2010/05/save-chair.html" target="_blank">Save A Chair</a> entry in 2010, you'll notice something familiar. Yes!! I still had left over fabric!! So with an allen wrench, a staple gun, scissors and my husband's strength and patience with me, we recovered the old chair with the familiar orange fabric that I love so much.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKcqjz9VswhrNU6A7PTSFQYxGcav7NvDYRFADKJT587-WqPIbcPnDSkA8DSUKpkLRAYscAlCy-ShsCWoB2rOsogBk1-nQeMN66e757pfl1zNgiIWApjgqolq46FEpFlZFVF_u5jeCWfi6/s1600/ReUpholsterChair2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKcqjz9VswhrNU6A7PTSFQYxGcav7NvDYRFADKJT587-WqPIbcPnDSkA8DSUKpkLRAYscAlCy-ShsCWoB2rOsogBk1-nQeMN66e757pfl1zNgiIWApjgqolq46FEpFlZFVF_u5jeCWfi6/s320/ReUpholsterChair2.JPG" width="320" /></a>We took the chair apart with an allen wrench and cleaned it to the best of our ability.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5I9MPFSayU36_sABuXwo5eQVKK_BNfUVFEq5jt0QXz4BuS3VHA3UbKDHuqflebV0486r0rMQBhMBapr8aEA0dH-iGNi7LIJ4lfb298QO1ap-EFR3Xi4J8imIavTl0WSKXdVlH0S1fWYUL/s1600/ReUpholsterChair3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5I9MPFSayU36_sABuXwo5eQVKK_BNfUVFEq5jt0QXz4BuS3VHA3UbKDHuqflebV0486r0rMQBhMBapr8aEA0dH-iGNi7LIJ4lfb298QO1ap-EFR3Xi4J8imIavTl0WSKXdVlH0S1fWYUL/s320/ReUpholsterChair3.JPG" width="320" /></a>I really did not want to sew, so with very careful folding and lots of staples, I recovered each part individually before putting it back together.</div>
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-71936452917701611002012-10-07T15:37:00.000-04:002012-10-07T15:37:30.881-04:00Old is New Again It has been quite a while since I blogged. You may be wondering what has kept me away for so long? Well, other than being a bit lazy to write, it's has been a hectic year and the weeks and months have been flying by. As I try to get back into the habit of writing, I'll be revisting events past and sharing a few projects accomplished over the year. But forget all of that for now, I'd like to share with you one of the recent most recent projects I worked on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KpMv5cZZdIa9tY6sjlOuuG3p8Zr-F9Z7qvmbQ-E9lhsw1zYd3bL9PDzvE56Qfllo0qSFN6OfT6C4bym1ri4B8z2kexYooQ_Odtz9AxzdN_L7M44iph2WQCydi3abKR4cMCES2XgCEQPC/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KpMv5cZZdIa9tY6sjlOuuG3p8Zr-F9Z7qvmbQ-E9lhsw1zYd3bL9PDzvE56Qfllo0qSFN6OfT6C4bym1ri4B8z2kexYooQ_Odtz9AxzdN_L7M44iph2WQCydi3abKR4cMCES2XgCEQPC/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After years of being in the South Florida sun and rain, a little faded!<br />
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In one of my earlier entries <a href="http://gleeza.blogspot.com/2009/12/say-hello-to-my-little-friend.html" target="_blank">Mario and Luigi Amigurumi dolls</a> you will notice my garden mushrooms in the background. I found three of these resin mushrooms on clearance at a Target years ago. The boys and I had painted them and then they were given homes in the garden where they lived for the past five years at least. We moved last year and the mushrooms were left in the old garden till about two weeks ago. Before adding them to the new garden I thought a little makeover was in order, so with a little acrylic paints, sponge brushes and a can of sealer, the mushrooms were given a new life and are now a lovely addition to my new work in progress garden.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5Jmj_VXLMSs-MuC3fimqf-ySj9mBzVIfG3R9olTvUOQz7EphHszkOVYVXVw1a2UNIaNnxMhha6SNtlt0ewkMR08gO_SkSJ-JLZZp_lqNmYZQqFecmkSHUlihhvkt2sHbdn6GnGOag0PW/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5Jmj_VXLMSs-MuC3fimqf-ySj9mBzVIfG3R9olTvUOQz7EphHszkOVYVXVw1a2UNIaNnxMhha6SNtlt0ewkMR08gO_SkSJ-JLZZp_lqNmYZQqFecmkSHUlihhvkt2sHbdn6GnGOag0PW/s200/002.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I chose bright colors for the base.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZiPh7foGjelitD20Ka77e9binP3u_MY1OsSIR1YYffTlJOWdT7kRaMowhYMkDE6gzpEY1k0wJKTgjN147_G-cIPQdkqczk-o8ErSKHXrXEKvJf_LYn6kJBOnjccsOe8uYQZymCZFndziG/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZiPh7foGjelitD20Ka77e9binP3u_MY1OsSIR1YYffTlJOWdT7kRaMowhYMkDE6gzpEY1k0wJKTgjN147_G-cIPQdkqczk-o8ErSKHXrXEKvJf_LYn6kJBOnjccsOe8uYQZymCZFndziG/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few dots and sealer...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHHH-BrqHAzYkQ49UvIi4d-twYCj0g7JaAHI5SpRAoAJce8bu_b9kfZQyMYv1LXOu6VYAzlIY-uxD5S6VxG1oVVmKR-p3v1Bj6AfRAGAKLBngJgEtHiKLSu8SH4Yx15HxCW1gDw6h2vNy/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHHH-BrqHAzYkQ49UvIi4d-twYCj0g7JaAHI5SpRAoAJce8bu_b9kfZQyMYv1LXOu6VYAzlIY-uxD5S6VxG1oVVmKR-p3v1Bj6AfRAGAKLBngJgEtHiKLSu8SH4Yx15HxCW1gDw6h2vNy/s400/004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Life for a few more years!</td></tr>
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Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-72503480851292119072011-12-19T19:39:00.001-05:002011-12-19T19:46:31.358-05:00Guyanese Rock Buns<div align="center"><strong>Guyanese Rock Buns</strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RkN97L10Pu420o-GsyTXA0nbbLCKylZKyN-v1ClWSVWn4fjGQXDTKfEFfnYRFUej-w8xpRFKq63K1Kfi34U8WYG5sgLcvbI2T14PThAcy_AcFxPWFCL4ZJ7zALyFL0NZoNFeW-PCUM1F/s1600/Rockbuns7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RkN97L10Pu420o-GsyTXA0nbbLCKylZKyN-v1ClWSVWn4fjGQXDTKfEFfnYRFUej-w8xpRFKq63K1Kfi34U8WYG5sgLcvbI2T14PThAcy_AcFxPWFCL4ZJ7zALyFL0NZoNFeW-PCUM1F/s200/Rockbuns7.JPG" width="200" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">I got this recipe for Rock Buns from my Mother-in-law. She makes these around Christmas time and I love them. I can have them for breakfast, and all day long as a snack. They are great with a cup of tea and coffee. Once I got the recipe from Mom, I made them for my Nanie and well she loved them just as much and making buns for her became a regular thing especially around the holidays. Since Nanie passed on I kind of stop baking as much and this past Thanksgiving was the first time in a long time since I made Nanie's favorites. I hope you try and enjoy this recipe as much as I do. I will be making them for Christmas too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
Preheat Oven to 350 degrees<br />
Bake Time: 15-18 minutes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HpdN4eGpfIDe6p7dlt28mKxqi4nvIhU4XkUkhlYKn-UacFqSK1wGLJlPfuf9Vz9HvUFqhkYHobj_XuwpqLbhgBYYwCakZa3y4fkL89uqVqsvxMMsEuCqH4q7XvCDUoLWzp8F8Szf5ehJ/s1600/RockBuns1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HpdN4eGpfIDe6p7dlt28mKxqi4nvIhU4XkUkhlYKn-UacFqSK1wGLJlPfuf9Vz9HvUFqhkYHobj_XuwpqLbhgBYYwCakZa3y4fkL89uqVqsvxMMsEuCqH4q7XvCDUoLWzp8F8Szf5ehJ/s320/RockBuns1.JPG" width="320" /></a><strong>Ingredients:</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;">2 cups of Flour</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 teaspoon Salt</div><div style="text-align: left;">4 tsp Baking Powder</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg</div><div style="text-align: left;">6 oz. room temperature Butter (1 stick + 2 tablespoons)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6 oz. Sugar or (3/4 cup) </div><div style="text-align: left;">1 egg</div><div style="text-align: left;">(A touch of milk if necessary meaning your egg was too small)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Shredded Coconut (half of the bag)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Raisins &Walnuts (optional if you're allergic or don't like, try chocolate chips or other fruits)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Mix All Dry Ingredients together, fruits, nuts, and coconuts in a large bowl. <br />
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Add one beaten egg and mix<br />
If necessary add a touch of milk until you get a dough that holds together.<br />
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Spoon by tablespoons on to an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees for 15-18 minutes on middle rack until golden brown on top. Allow to cool and enjoy. Store in Air tight containers.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-26480413044967427102011-11-07T21:41:00.000-05:002011-11-07T21:41:49.642-05:00An Explanation for the Absence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPvWnIDNDmIWDuefDEFbdkWxFSDG6RsxwsTr3FCsXsI_m_MU-Gc4r8pe-nVnda42wRht23g9Azu9FXb3JE53mUa_-Q6zQX9E9N5lJANm8s8zXxJS-5muuXk4s6UH_tVdEoJgIgmb-J0pDI/s1600/MC900382585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPvWnIDNDmIWDuefDEFbdkWxFSDG6RsxwsTr3FCsXsI_m_MU-Gc4r8pe-nVnda42wRht23g9Azu9FXb3JE53mUa_-Q6zQX9E9N5lJANm8s8zXxJS-5muuXk4s6UH_tVdEoJgIgmb-J0pDI/s320/MC900382585.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I realize that it has been quite a while since my last entry and I owe you an explanation. In the end of July, our family closed the deal on a new home. I'm happy to say we are staying in our beautiful city and we didn't have to change schools or routines much. Our family had long outgrown our first home and desperately needed breathing room, we searched for a very long time (years) before finding this opportunity. I can't even begin to describe the entire process but it was long, drawn out and frustrating, but in the end well worth it. We spent the entire month of August and half of September doing renovations, pretty much gutted the inside and started over. I will be writing about that soon. We moved in September and can finally say that we're officially settled in. Slowly but surely all the things to do are being checked off. The to-do list was quite long when we started this move. There are so many decisions to be made and things to be done while on a budget and actively involved in your renovation and moving and trying to live a normal life. (Breathe).. yes, it's been like that over the past three months. It has been as if a whirlwind swept through our lives, but the finish line is near and I will once again be able to do all activities I enjoy so doing much including being online and blogging..<br />
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Btw, is it only me or has this year just whizzed by? I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving, which means Christmas is creeping up soon. I've been working on a few things for my shop during little breaks between house projects and can't wait to share them with you. I also have some fun decorating ideas and projects to write about, hopefully next year and yes I'm making resolutions already, I will be able to write more.Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-4007293766965228932011-08-14T20:09:00.000-04:002013-06-06T23:35:27.640-04:00Hurricane Season Reminder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJh_eW99TETyBLV07eea2hEQIxutPFDo1Zwk4C2daUJeWzV915iHFJNgZTP1dWorKPhUIBLmB9j7E9axxAvawskx9VGReNnC4l1sG7N59m6O112_GAzwuwz7LXZljYmxbCz2HJ1kuu_4Gj/s1600/Floyd_19990914_1259_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJh_eW99TETyBLV07eea2hEQIxutPFDo1Zwk4C2daUJeWzV915iHFJNgZTP1dWorKPhUIBLmB9j7E9axxAvawskx9VGReNnC4l1sG7N59m6O112_GAzwuwz7LXZljYmxbCz2HJ1kuu_4Gj/s320/Floyd_19990914_1259_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It's mid August and the hurricane which has been fairly active so far will begin to get ready to go into it's peak which is in mid September. As of today, we have had seven named storms, luckily none were hurricanes and their effects have been minimal on populated areas. Keep in mind though that while the peak of hurricane season isn't until September, Mother Nature does not follow our Julian calender, so a storm can threaten at anytime before or after the climatological date of the peak. If you are not familiar with the basics, read the links provided <a href="http://gleeza.blogspot.com/2010/06/hurricane-season-2010-begins.html">within this entry from last year.</a><br />
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Before a storm ever threatens, now is the time to review and refresh your supplies and preparedness plans.<br />
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Check your shutters to make sure they are operational, replacement screws and parts will be harder to find when a storm is near. Start making plywood coverings, stain or seal them with a water sealant so that they can be used again next season.<br />
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Replenish batteries, snacks, canned foods and other items listed in my earlier entry or corresponding links.<br />
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When a storm actually threatens your area, you will have less stress and more time to do other preparations that can make the days following a storm without electricity or potable running water easier.<br />
<a href="http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/outreach/prepare.shtml">NHC- Preparedness</a><br />
If you have done the basics and feel confident that you are ready if a storm threatens, then consider these additional tips.<br />
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Wash, prep and season meats in meal sized portions, then freeze. When the power is gone and water is unsafe, you simply thaw and throw on your grill. No mess, no fuss.<br />
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Do your laundry, vaccum the rugs, clean as you would if guests were coming over, it will help keep your mind off of the impending storm and will make the aftermath more bearable and manageable if you don't have to think about how to accomplish these tasks without electricity or water.<br />
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Once your house is secured and you are confident with the supplies you have on hand, spend some time baking or making snacks that can be stored at room temperature. I enjoy making rock buns which can stay fresh up to two weeks in an airtight container, that's if they last that long. Make something that your family considers a comfort food for dinner the night before the storm and try to maintain as much normalcy as you can for your family. <br />
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Hurricanes and storms can be stressful and frightening, however with preparations done well in advance, such as an evacuation plan, shutters and supplies for up to two weeks, you should feel confident that you are better prepared than most. <br />
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<em>Now I realize that it's been a while since my last entry, but many exciting changes have occurred causing me to have less online time, but the finish line is close and soon I'll be able to get back into the swing of things with lots more to share, until next time, thanks for visiting and reading, I'll post when I can.</em>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-57893019791404998412011-07-14T08:35:00.000-04:002011-07-14T08:35:00.390-04:00Crocheted Peacock Wall ArtI recently made this piece of wall art as a birthday gift for my sister in law. I crocheted a peacock, and attached it to black fabric that I had embroidered on my sewing machine. I used a teal, turquoise color. It was pretty but was lacking something... so I added puffy scroll stickers and gems that are used in scrapbooking to finish it off. Sorry about the bad picture, but it's all I have. What do you think?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6G6sGAjdivCkNw2yAiljQk2KtUWNt5i99B53U_qR3NHO3oCkXfxgcdzlkoAbv8FlnYKzYx7_gkHqYU2yOGMD412KWMez1VjSJ34rxPFc07ProZEh0Zwl0dNxOfksi_VtiRhUm99I7CLyz/s1600/peacockwallart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6G6sGAjdivCkNw2yAiljQk2KtUWNt5i99B53U_qR3NHO3oCkXfxgcdzlkoAbv8FlnYKzYx7_gkHqYU2yOGMD412KWMez1VjSJ34rxPFc07ProZEh0Zwl0dNxOfksi_VtiRhUm99I7CLyz/s400/peacockwallart.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-39881016066955234362011-07-10T08:16:00.001-04:002011-07-10T08:16:01.744-04:00Stupid Socks!!!Haha, yep stupid socks!! I started knitting my first pair of stocks two weeks ago with lots of enthusiam, however that enthusiam has waned. First, let's just say working with 4 double point needles isn't the easiest thing to do and I had to pick up dropped stitches several times. Next came the issue of the pattern. The picture of the socks on the pattern is nothing like the what the actual sock from the pattern is, meaning the sock in the image shows a shaped heel, however the directions in the pattern does not call for any heel shaping. This sock is also an all over ribbed pattern. Once I realized that sock I was knitting was going to look nothing like the sock in the image I sort of lost interest and moved on to other projects. I will still finish this pair of socks, however it will be for myself and it will be at a much slower place. Here it is as of this week, on it's way to 16.5 inches before toe shaping begins.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusUh-FIp6FDmM0cUDCZdeIzB8BXxTN6m_bdmrdAHYGEHOnKr9MXVAtE55PEtEl8usrVjOHbL6h4QIi5rYIJGSGX8_0CMmZb_GrkxMXqXNGhyphenhyphenVTmAo6IuYHuU6bN5YWxuJ_jwsR7fUcEOS/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusUh-FIp6FDmM0cUDCZdeIzB8BXxTN6m_bdmrdAHYGEHOnKr9MXVAtE55PEtEl8usrVjOHbL6h4QIi5rYIJGSGX8_0CMmZb_GrkxMXqXNGhyphenhyphenVTmAo6IuYHuU6bN5YWxuJ_jwsR7fUcEOS/s400/005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-61729232911146138342011-06-29T08:46:00.000-04:002011-06-29T01:02:53.001-04:00Craft Room Inspiration from Ikea<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCEY_fksTyqLhJ6vXWWhR6xaGDEP7xLZCVafmPMrgzi_Kt8W5Otz8OXx4bwmksR2Vzcyqzny-pr-_wWz4Puf6357kq4V7kUk6Ua7V401IBT0qeRXAE3z-qQUgf-JgHVp75hvZ2Ctd6Lzn/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCEY_fksTyqLhJ6vXWWhR6xaGDEP7xLZCVafmPMrgzi_Kt8W5Otz8OXx4bwmksR2Vzcyqzny-pr-_wWz4Puf6357kq4V7kUk6Ua7V401IBT0qeRXAE3z-qQUgf-JgHVp75hvZ2Ctd6Lzn/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a>I recently visited my nearby Ikea to just for a stroll and I found this very cool craft room set up. I will definitely be doing this the "next time" I set up a craft room. I love the tall table, it's perfect for cutting patterns and sewing on. There is also a very cool magnetic board with canisters to store all those little knick knacks and crafting supplies. The cabinetry is also great for storing fabric, paper crafts and other assorted supplies. Even if I cannot replicate this look in my craft space, I'll still be using some of the great ideas featured.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxoKBcOhgXK7frG1l33edugMt8MAhJOxSSDmqePq6OrcufxE4E4CPdZSgUNgVnKCedqYYMIqJ9gbY3Wfc0d7usxWb78Q5aXg1qZer_g8EX3neVmzokMEuD1lxePxXo-1QF3QyBw82CGgJD/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxoKBcOhgXK7frG1l33edugMt8MAhJOxSSDmqePq6OrcufxE4E4CPdZSgUNgVnKCedqYYMIqJ9gbY3Wfc0d7usxWb78Q5aXg1qZer_g8EX3neVmzokMEuD1lxePxXo-1QF3QyBw82CGgJD/s640/001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-32498204925517209912011-06-27T08:00:00.002-04:002011-06-27T08:00:00.331-04:00My First Attempt at Knitting Socks<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcu9eaCNqsBOhunL2mB__E4wTC4QT5nTq5yG6g6VamSUruJHdaunenS1qQIPA1CDI1jUzHEcNWFSsziSRxS3IV1Gnr-UCn8UxIvmKjNA9Tf6RSsnQBN-nx-O3H-FZGJl_aG-HZzegnVjf/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcu9eaCNqsBOhunL2mB__E4wTC4QT5nTq5yG6g6VamSUruJHdaunenS1qQIPA1CDI1jUzHEcNWFSsziSRxS3IV1Gnr-UCn8UxIvmKjNA9Tf6RSsnQBN-nx-O3H-FZGJl_aG-HZzegnVjf/s400/013.JPG" width="400" /></a>I knew the day would eventually come when I would attempt to make a pair of socks. I love sock yarn and can't seem to resist picking up a few skeins when I find them on sale, well a basket full of sock weight yarn later and never an attempt to do anything with it, I decided it was time to start. Plus I thought it would a nice gift for a special person going on a big trip this year. <br />
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This is what I've accomplished in between daily household chores on a lazy and rainy Sunday with Paton's sock yarn, size 3 double point needles and free pattern I picked up at Michael's but it can also be found on Paton's website. I wonder how long it will take me to finish a pair?</div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-78217724790693457042011-06-25T11:53:00.000-04:002011-06-25T11:53:37.180-04:00Gardening In South Florida: Playing Catch UpHope you're all having a wonderful Saturday, maybe you'll be spending some time in your garden this weekend, I know I will be.<br /><a href="http://gardeninginsouthflorida.blogspot.com/2011/06/playing-catch-up.html">Gardening In South Florida: Playing Catch Up</a>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-3539885736825357592011-06-24T08:19:00.001-04:002011-06-24T08:19:00.157-04:00Happy FridayHello Everyone!!<br />
I know, I know, it must have seemed like I just fell off the face of the earth, but in reality, I've been around, just too busy and distracted to blog. There are quite a few things happening in my life that I am unable to discuss as of yet, that have kept me away, however no more excuses, it's summer and the kids are home and I'm sure I can fit in at least one blog post a week again. So forgive me, thank you for still reading and hope to see you again in the near future and Happy Friday!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://aricrippy.ca.st/photos/original/114084.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i$="true" src="http://aricrippy.ca.st/photos/original/114084.gif" /></a></div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-77256992244902562102011-05-11T08:33:00.000-04:002011-05-11T08:33:45.169-04:0030 years later The Legend Lives - Bob MarleyToday is the 30th anniversary of Bob Marley's death and though the man is dead his music heavily influences me and motivates me. Music helps me manage my stress and makes the daily grind of running my business easier and as Bob Marley says, “One good thing about music, when it hits- you feel no pain” <br />
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I usually start my day with the message from Three Little Birds programmed to wake me up to the rising sun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/kIjkW6iyXNo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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"Don't worry about a thing, cuz every little thing is going to be alright"<br />
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During the crafting day, there are times when inspiration doesn't flow as easily, so on comes "Natural Mystic" . And as I try to find the answers to all the questions they ask, I usually ask and sing along to "Could you be loved" as a new creation is born.<br />
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Bob Marley especially helps me when I feel frustrated with the "Rat Race". Sometimes it's "I shot the Sherriff" or "Redemption Song" that helps me, but it's "no woman no cry" that does it for me and always makes me feel better.<br />
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And once I feel better, it's like "iron, lion, zion" and I'm "jammin" for the rest of the night! <br />
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Rest In Peace the Hon. Robert N. Marley, 30 years may have passed since you left the earth, but your music lives on and will continue to do so. One Love!!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/vdB-8eLEW8g?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-60726002635942279052011-04-12T00:19:00.000-04:002011-04-12T00:19:15.678-04:00Remembering Loved Ones<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/AVvXsEivcXoZQTnqI5DuU3d5e-QWviRtjIFqvKgZa_VDbFzwa9dJoCT3QUNi3ZSSQckqPluVppk-WrPHFRkAEZmmSwiHwIgYwE2rcz8YvgwqiZehB0rAGVj8j_Ka1AkuqDhd1vgCVzTXJETahMbu/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcXoZQTnqI5DuU3d5e-QWviRtjIFqvKgZa_VDbFzwa9dJoCT3QUNi3ZSSQckqPluVppk-WrPHFRkAEZmmSwiHwIgYwE2rcz8YvgwqiZehB0rAGVj8j_Ka1AkuqDhd1vgCVzTXJETahMbu/s400/012.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Deepest Condolences to the Somwaru Family<br />
RIP Nanie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597104448493949472.post-34690245955288660872011-03-26T21:36:00.001-04:002011-03-26T21:38:52.864-04:00Americanized Guyanese Pine Tarts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacAP7qN_S3a8iNtld9S2dgz9LkjaUSKvgPBeeH000cgMrTzZXf74aX4LErZswGsjtp-4j6iljNVgcrJU0MfW0_JLT7Ho2yRBJhM2DSwshWrrI8Xxy2Ny4DXxuBaA3YWcr8v88jX1ROJxR/s1600/Pinetart+11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacAP7qN_S3a8iNtld9S2dgz9LkjaUSKvgPBeeH000cgMrTzZXf74aX4LErZswGsjtp-4j6iljNVgcrJU0MfW0_JLT7Ho2yRBJhM2DSwshWrrI8Xxy2Ny4DXxuBaA3YWcr8v88jX1ROJxR/s200/Pinetart+11.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Call me lazy, but I've Americanized the Guyanese pine tart. My late grandmother loved pine tarts and in order to satisfy her sweet tooth I took short cuts but the end product is a delicious pastry that is easy and quick to make and the filling can be substituted with any flavoring jams of your choice. Making pine tarts from scratch isn't that hard either, but why make jam from scratch when it comes in a jar.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jFCk8uXa3opyws65xBBsx1nSrpuntFmeI25aYRj4Fc5xNarmDUSnHSJvyJ1U0WjS7BXfsSOx5xVJFAEa-RRmx1VKaXrA34g1h6VNcgYWTlZcZi6waMYZxxSJPZy3Qr1T4d2UnKfclcoh/s1600/Pinetart1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jFCk8uXa3opyws65xBBsx1nSrpuntFmeI25aYRj4Fc5xNarmDUSnHSJvyJ1U0WjS7BXfsSOx5xVJFAEa-RRmx1VKaXrA34g1h6VNcgYWTlZcZi6waMYZxxSJPZy3Qr1T4d2UnKfclcoh/s200/Pinetart1.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
Preheat Oven to 350 degrees<br />
Bake Time: 15-20 minutes<br />
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<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
2 boxes Betty Crocker Pie Crust Mix<br />
ice cold water for pie crust mix (follow directions on box)<br />
2 jars of Publix or any brand Pineapple Jam<br />
small bowl of iced cold water for sealing pastries<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">small amount of flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><strong>Method:</strong><br />
Mix Betty Crocker Pastry mix according to the directions on the box for 2 crust pie. Once dough has formed into a ball, with floured hands, divide dough into golf ball size portions. On floured surface roll out the dough and spoon pineapple jam by the spoonfuls into the center.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWijdOA2v_fz7AtvdYyBWMXHZSL04fRNdItbQ9uVjoJ91ukP2BAJ8flHw3vCO0cdFofIxBA9G8se2JLgKzITKblSB47zVm5jXxgDUob0genyinxVy0l-nZStD3i9Jo8TzTccyvm9Pt4pa/s1600/pinetartscollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWijdOA2v_fz7AtvdYyBWMXHZSL04fRNdItbQ9uVjoJ91ukP2BAJ8flHw3vCO0cdFofIxBA9G8se2JLgKzITKblSB47zVm5jXxgDUob0genyinxVy0l-nZStD3i9Jo8TzTccyvm9Pt4pa/s400/pinetartscollage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Dip your finger in the bowl of cold water and rub along the edges, then begin to fold each side over forming a triangle. Place on ungreased baking sheet and bake at 350 degree for 15 to 20 minutes or until top starts to turns light golden brown. To enhance the shine of the pastry, a simple egg wash can be used on the top.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCXGtYml3-r0hYoyXxk7uS6SE_wFSw9yZHNByyX2vx_N1Y5dpatb970vNCiWFy2C5iW8kZpO7J9P7IbkhgAWtYDSws73XzqE0OOCGg8iga9i7KRFSyVMAdjvptmYQuFNEGtozmlyU2iyG/s1600/pinetarts2collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="102" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCXGtYml3-r0hYoyXxk7uS6SE_wFSw9yZHNByyX2vx_N1Y5dpatb970vNCiWFy2C5iW8kZpO7J9P7IbkhgAWtYDSws73XzqE0OOCGg8iga9i7KRFSyVMAdjvptmYQuFNEGtozmlyU2iyG/s400/pinetarts2collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Gleezahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15714818627745181265noreply@blogger.com3