My Sugar Mountain Journal

On the Farm: Can you say Wabbit Satay?

2012-01-26T13:16:00.000-07:00

On the farm: 5 more fat baby rabbits, and a craigslist trade: one of our 13 week old does for this handsome, albino male -for introducing new genes into our rabbit family. He has been named "Big Al" (albino). Supposedly, he will throw some awesome colors -just like his dad. Lance will be building him a proper hutch this weekend.

Dispatching (and cooking!) our first round of rabbit this weekend! Can you say Wabbit Satay?

Honey Harvest...

2012-01-21T21:29:00.002-07:00

We seem to have lost our bees and now have empty, yet full, bee boxes. We are going the easiest and cheapest route for the honey harvest: heating it all together and straining. I'm pretty excited about it.

"Fresh" Dilemmas...

2012-01-20T00:15:00.000-07:00

I have a love/hate relationship with our Food Saver. I love it for the "fresh" garden vegetables it provides in the middle of winter, but dislike (hate really is such a strong word) it for consuming plastic.

Walk Through the Barn

2012-01-19T01:36:00.000-07:00

...Out to feed the rabbits, stopping to say hello to the goats...

Outtakes...

2012-01-14T00:28:00.000-07:00

...the outtakes are usually the ones I love most...

Creates a Ripple...

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about moving our family to the farm is the ripple it creates in our family circle -sharing love and awareness, the why and how of where our food comes from. It makes my heart so happy. These kiddos are what its all about!

Sugar Mountain Ranch Sign

2012-01-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

We were spoiled at Christmas this past year...in a BIG way! My father in law made us a sign for the farm! How very cool is that?! We are excited to see it installed beside the drive, nestled into the native flower bed, greeting us as we make our way home.

Yes, we were spoiled indeed.

A New Year...2012

2012-01-03T00:10:00.000-07:00

A New Year, full of hope and dreams. Embracing the joy of fresh beginnings, and holding on tight.

To bring the New Year in properly you must rid yourself of the past years "baggage". And that is just what we did New Years Eve, we torched the burn pile! Topped with our recently discarded Christmas tree, we burnt the ever accumulating 2011 pile, the one that took up residence in our soon-to-be home for pigs...yes, Pigs! Now with the pen clear, we are one step closer to our goal: "Pigs: Spring 2012".

Another milestone was reached this past weekend. A milestone that helped kick the New Year off to a great start: major demolition/remodel work on my parents home has begun! Really and truly. I can see progress, and it comes at a time when I am yearning for such. It's amazing how a touch of progress can make one feel so very determined, and grateful too.

2012, We welcome you with Full Hearts and Determined Minds.

Ameraucana Hen, Green Eggs!

2011-12-08T10:52:00.001-07:00

We have one Ameraucana hen and she has finally started giving us eggs, blueish green ones!

Meet Buckley, Our New Goat

2011-12-05T09:15:00.001-07:00

We have high hopes for this handsome young buck!

Rabbits Busy Growing

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000-07:00

The baby rabbits have opened their eyes and are growing fast. We still don't have a final count, this was the first time one was picked up. They are so adorable! Gonna be the hardest animal to butcher, I think. I keep telling myself they will be loved and live a good life. They are the sustainable meat. I am having a hard time calling them rabbits instead of bunnies.

Twelve

2011-11-09T23:04:00.000-07:00

This girl of mine celebrated her 12th Birthday this week. Here she is holding a photo of the two of us back in '99. I love this photo. Just look at her now! 12 seems such a step up from 11.

...Thank you, Kaziah, for blessing my life with your beautiful self...

Garlic

2011-11-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

The garlic has been planted, twice as much as last year.

Our Busy Fall Weekend, Butchering Roosters

2011-11-07T00:37:00.000-07:00

We butchered 7 young roosters this past weekend. We follow Joel Salatin's Killing Cone method. An old bleach bottle works well for this. Dipping the chicken in hot water makes for easy plucking.

Roxie helping pluck with my mother, Mimi. Roxie did much better with the butchering that she did last time. And this may seem silly, but I was proud to have plucked 2 completely by myself! The meat will be a bit tough, but these roosters were sealed with a Food Saver and placed in the freezer for future broth making.

Walk about the Farm on a Cold November Evening...

2011-11-02T00:29:00.000-06:00

Finn loves to collect eggs!

And mooooo at the cows!

Stop in the barn and you'll find: 2 goats and a handful of chickens we call "The Misfits". These hens, and one rooster, Big Red, never did seem comfortable in the larger group.

Chickens are funny like that.

Also in the barn: what do you get when you put 2 bunnies together? 9 bunnies, of course!!!

Awww wabbit...the sustainable meat!Enchiladas anyone?

They're hidden quite well, but there are at least 7 baby bunnies here.

What a surprise for the girls Sunday afternoon!

Finn approves of this year's pumpkin harvest.
Looking for a great pumpkin seed recipe? Look no further - click here!

PW's (Bacon!) Corn Cheese Chowder

2011-11-01T10:02:00.000-06:00

Pioneer Woman's photo of her Corn Cheese Chowder

I made Pioneer Woman's Corn Cheese Chowder for Halloween dinner last night. It was simple and Fabulous!!!! Of course it was, it is Pioneer Woman after all!

It should be titled, 'Bacon Corn Cheese Chowder' and I say: double the bacon and add a bit more heat (if you're into that sort of thing) in form of peppers sauteed with the onion.

I have a habit of listing ingredients and deciding if a meal is farm sustainable -and this one is! (if we were actually at that point anyhow)

A new cold weather favorite...to be made again and again throughout the season.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T00:30:00.000-06:00

From the Sugar Mountain Pumpkin Patch!

An adorable Mr. Finn who doesn't know what all the fuss is about, but loves the candy...

so that will do, thank you very much!

Zombie UpRising!!!

Halloween brought out the zombie girls. They participated in the 'Thrill the World' event, which was pretty dang cool. I really didn't like seeing the blood and oozing cuts -no mama wants to see that on her babes, but it was a memorable experience.

This was the first year the girls did their pumpkins completely by themselves. They cut them open, ripped out the guts and carved the design. Even Roxie was hip to the challenge, and I think they did a great job! Happy Halloween!!!

What's Fall Without Pumpkins?

2011-10-27T14:06:00.000-06:00

Headed out to the garden yesterday with three of the four kiddos in tow. I wondered to myself if I missed going to a local pumpkin patch instead of simply skipping out to the garden. Nope, I really like having my own. And next year, I plan it to look more like Charlie Brown's and invite friends over to help pick the many pumpkins. Yes, that will be nice.

365 Photo Challenge...

2011-10-24T00:13:00.000-06:00

Getting back in the habit...365 photo challenge!

...sharing a few favorites from the month of October...

For the Love of Canning!

2011-10-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

Oh I have fallen in Love...with canning! Its an old love, renewed and grown into something I can trust. No fear, which is something I think many people must overcome when learning to process food.

And to help me on my quest to process our garden (and lets be honest here -whatever else I can get my hands on!) is the book Canning for a New Generation: Bold, Fresh Flavors for the Modern Pantry, by Liana Krissoff.I have read/studied many cooking-canning books, but this book is the one that it all finally "clicked" for me. I highly recommend picking it up and giving it a go -you won't regret it!

Old Farm, Old Pipes...

2011-10-22T21:41:00.000-06:00

We finds ourselves replacing the barn/animal corral water pipes. At least its not the middle of winter.

And Finn is Lance's right hand man...in training!

Food Crafting!

2011-10-19T01:49:00.000-06:00

Picking, canning, blanching, freezing, drying, testing, tasting and making notes for future batches. That is what I've been up to. I also squeezed in a bit of sewing with two identical harvest aprons for me and a good friend. We wore them picking apples for our annual apple pressing gathering. It also happened to be my birthday. What a great party!

Gotta Believe in Your Dreams...

2011-10-19T00:42:00.002-06:00

If you told me 3 years ago this would be what I saw when I pulled into my drive, I would of told you you were crazy! Oh we imagined it, but could never quite grasp how it would actually come together. But here we are. Believe in your dreams, you never know where they'll take you...

A Favorite From the Summer: Camping at the Lake

2011-09-22T00:18:00.000-06:00

We went camping at our favorite spot this last July.

Sharing now as way of officially saying goodbye to summer.

So long summer, you were good to us, mostly.

Looking forward to fall and all its golden, crisp, yummy splendor.

...more photos...

Juicer Delight!

2011-09-21T00:32:00.000-06:00

Me-Oh-My! Sugar Mountain got a juicer, and it is heavenly! Never imagined how much joy would come with one of these bad boys, The Champion Juicer. I find much pleasure in knowing that in the morning, I will awaken to a tall glass of apple, grape and carrot juice -all grown here on the farm!

Maybe its just me, but this juice "latte" carries hope for a new day, all poured into a tall glass.

Roasted Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes with Goat Cheese

2011-09-17T00:44:00.000-06:00

The other night I used SpiderWomanKnit's blogged recipe for Roasted Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes. Not being a huge 'right off the vine' tomato fan, I was bit nervous (silly me) and only roasted 2 small pans worth.

Those warm, sweet little candies literally knocked me back 3 steps! No joke. I tried to find someone to share my amazing discovery with ..."WOWZA these are AMAZING!" ... but quickly remembered I was the only one awake at that hour (mama's work is never done). Bummer for them. I ate lots right there, standing by the stove.

This evening I spooned some over dabs of locally crafted, jalapeno/garlic goat cheese and a hearty wheat cracker. Added a glass of wine, and I called that dinner! Added a second glass of wine, and I called that dessert. Cheers!

New Love For Cherry Tomatoes

2011-09-13T23:32:00.000-06:00

Picked some salsa makings from the garden this past weekend. Found that Finn likes little cherry tomatoes -not something I normally just pop into my mouth. Finn inspired me to venture out of my comfort zone and give it a try ... YUM!

I like my tomatoes chopped with peppers, garlic, onion, cilantro and a big twist of lime and dash of salt. However, I am proud to say that I have turned a new leaf and am excited to grow more next year. Stumbled on this great recipe just in time.

Collecting Rocky Mountain Bee Plant Seed

2011-09-11T22:35:00.000-06:00

Out collecting Rocky Mountain Bee Plant seed from our native plant garden. Moving the seed to different restoration area on the farm. Loved spending the time with Lance - just him and me (add a few critters and one chicken). Rare thing that is.

From Garden to Kitchen

2011-09-07T14:26:00.000-06:00

Lots of yumminess coming from the garden right now...from fresh pesto to tomatoes, corn, onion and okra. Hollowed out jalapeno peppers in the freezer to zucchini bread and stuffed wantons!

Late Summer Garden...

2011-08-30T10:50:00.005-06:00

Bringing the garden inside: fresh flowers on my windowsill and we enjoyed our first harvest of corn last night! I can almost feel fall in the air, and it feels good.

...more garden photos...

Chuckars Come Home

2011-08-19T11:08:00.003-06:00

The chuckars, and two pheasants, still find their way home every night. We have come to expect them. Finn believes they are for his pleasure only and gets so very excited when he sees them. What a treat!

Clipping the Chicken Wings

2011-08-18T08:58:00.011-06:00

"Golden Boy"

"Big Red"

"Jed the Half Breed" From what we can tell he is half Polish Crested and maybe Wyandotte? He is a small rooster, with such a pathetic crow, we couldn't bring ourselves to kill him.

Before we had the main chicken coop finished (still waiting for completed fencing before I show the final project) , 30 plus of our chickens lived in the barn. They liked it there, a lot. We didn't like the mess though, so as soon as Black Bart's "Hide Out" was finished, we moved the other chickens into their new, soon to be finished home.

Only problem? Some of the chickens REALLY liked the barn and wouldn't stop flying fences to return to the beloved space! Only solution was to clip wings. We started with the roosters and so far, only one hen has made her way back to the barn. After clipping her wings, she returned back to the barn again! What to do with her now? I'm not so sure. Black Bart may just receive another lady! Hopefully she will be happy with him in their new home. Time will tell!

We like our eggs fertilized, so we decided to keep as many roosters as possible for our group -about one rooster for every 13-15 hens. We are still a bit short of hens for that quota, but craigslist has proven helpful in our quest to obtain more hens.

We watch a lot of "Chicken TV"

The Garden Grows

2011-08-17T23:32:00.008-06:00

...an evening spent in the garden, through the eye of my camera...

Camping Does a Family Good!

2011-08-14T23:12:00.005-06:00

Nothing like a quick family trip to the hills to bring everyone back together. Does a family good!

When we go hiking, you can pretty much count on the following happening: I get preoccupied taking photos of native plants, critters, or even weeds, realize my family has left me behind (again) and I hurry along to catch up. When I turn the bend, I find them patiently waiting. Oh how I love this sweet family of mine!

The Chickens are Finally Home!

2011-08-12T12:12:00.004-06:00

Busy week! 8 of our 50 chickens can now finally settle into their new home! This coop sits in the view from my kitchen window, and that is the sole reason for its placement. Just beyond the coop, is our garden and beyond that -the hills. Doing the dishes ain't so bad! The rest of our many chickens are awaiting proper fencing and a painted coop. Although I'm sure they don't mind an unpainted coop or the fences as they are.

Everything used to make this coop was found on the farm or purchased at a "restore". Only thing bought new was the paint.

We are headed to the hills for a weekend get away, time to replenish the soul with some family time exploring!

Of Chickens and Coops

2011-08-09T12:08:00.004-06:00

Chickens and coops -that's all that we have been thinking about, it seems. More than thinking about actually, "Black Bart" -the rooster above, and his ladies will be moving into their new home by the end of the week. Lots of chicken coop "re-fashioning" happening around these parts, hope to share the finished project soon!

Native Plants, On the Farm

2011-08-04T23:49:00.001-06:00

Summer Thunder

2011-08-04T23:44:00.002-06:00

The morning brought thunder, followed by big rain drops, sheets of it. He hadn't really seen anything like it before...and through his eyes, I saw it again, for the first time.

Happy Birthday To Finn!

2011-08-02T10:05:00.003-06:00

I think I blinked...maybe twice, and now he is one. Crazy. This sweet boy of mine carries my heart tight in his little hands. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Releasing Chuckars & Pheasants

2011-07-29T10:31:00.004-06:00

We recently opened the gates to the pheasant and chuckar cages, releasing them out into the great wide open. We figured after a bit they would be gone, flying off to a more rocky location. They have surprised us, however, by sticking around the farm and returning to the barn every night.

A Year Ago, Feeling Sentimental...

2011-07-28T09:00:00.006-06:00

As I am planning Finn's Birthday bash, I find myself feeling quite sentimental. Here I am about a year ago, awaiting arrival of the little boy who has changed our lives forever. Love that kid!

Too Many Roosters!

2011-07-19T00:16:00.003-06:00

We are not buying straight run chicks again. 23 of the 30 purchased grew into roosters. Using the "killing cone" method, all extra roosters have been processed and are now in the freezer. It was a learning experience for all of us, to say the least.

Girls plucking. Kaziah is quite skilled at this task, but every rooster became Roxie's favorite and she couldn't handle it anymore, poor kid.

Even though we knew rooster meat would not be the most tender, we had to fry some up - just because. Finn loved it!

Needing Simplicity

2011-06-09T00:55:00.005-06:00

Trying to find my balance in a world that keeps me on my toes.

Spring Asparagus...

2011-06-07T10:37:00.004-06:00

The thing about living in the country is that neighbors come together to help each other. Our neighbor passed away this spring and his sister asked for help in tending his 100+ colonies of asparagus. My mom and Kaziah picked over 13lbs of the yummy greens during the first picking and another 9lbs the second!

Needless to say, asparagus graced the menu every evening, and a few mornings, for a few weeks. We even managed to pickle a few jars! Although, roasting has got to be my favorite way to prepare asparagus -so fast and easy and yummy with a bit of parmesan sprinkled on before serving.

Garden 2011, Starting Summer Off Right...

2011-06-06T11:50:00.004-06:00

Starting summer off right, all day in the garden! Yesterday we planted the majority of our garden. Looking forward to spending more time in the garden than I have been able in the past. Finn loves to be in the garden too!

Recycling...

2011-05-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Yep - we do it! Although I do my best to remember (and teach the kids), the most important "R" to follow is to Reduce.

In the Orchard, The Beehive...

2011-05-15T23:39:00.005-06:00

After inspecting the hive today, we added another super (honey super: usually shorter than the brood box, but is upper-most box(s) where honey is stored).

We are new to this beekeeping experience, and I love it! Such a rewarding endeavor. There are so many great online resources for the amateur beekeeper. I am currently enjoying the informative "Linda's Bees".

Living on a Farm, with Kids...

2011-05-07T15:46:00.004-06:00

Straight from the 6 year olds mouth after hearing one of the chickens squawk, "That chicken just got fertilized!"

Our Dream of Farming

2011-05-06T23:05:00.003-06:00

From the very beginning, Lance and I dreamed of living on a farm. We used to drive the country side on rainy Sunday afternoons, in search of the dream - or at least a glimpse into the family farm life we desired.

We weren't alone, we had strength in numbers. My parents also felt a strong pull to provide an opportunity for the family that would change their children and grand-children's future for the better. A real step towards self sustainability that would (hopefully) be passed down through future generations. A safe haven...a family farm, brimming with everything needed to live fully. A way of life that helps to open awareness of the disconnect we as a society have developed. A disconnect to our surroundings, our food source and the "family unit".

True that, although our farm dreams (those of ours and those of my parents) wove loosely together - we felt confident it was a challenge we were up to. The dream was worth all the hard work, strained relationships and generation gaps. I will be the first to say it hasn't been a picnic. And if you want my advice, I would simply say to talk out all expectations from everyone involved, beforehand. But again, the change of life style and awareness we are now providing our children, outweigh the small differences and communication flaws we experience.

Two years have passed since Lance first brought me/us to the farm (two years this Mother's Day to be exact). I fell in love with the land and farm house instantly. I knew that although it was not the location I had originally desired, it was everything else. The morning commute was tolerable for me and the kids, and even better for Lance. It sported 3 shops, a barn, corral, orchard and two houses (one in need of major renovation). Two long months of anticipation and hard work later, after selling a rental property owned by my parents...we were handed the keys!

As I have already stated, the second home was (and still is) in need of renovation before my parents can move in. Meanwhile, our family of six and my parents, are all living in the large farm house together...yep, together. You can call me crazy, and I would agree. I knew this aspect of the family farm project would be a challenge, but I never anticipated the extent it would challenge me - on every level possible. I feel I must share this part of the family farm life. Its real and sometimes gritty. You see, renovation progress is slow and at times I feel it will never happen. Imagine my despair! I fully miss having my own home, with my children and my husband. When I find myself feeling out of sorts and gloomy (more often than I care to admit) - a walk around the farm, into the barn where the goats and chickens live, to the corral where I spy our happy cattle, or even the unfinished pig pen...this all helps to bring me back around to the "big picture" and why we chose this life path to begin with. I must remind myself of the progress we have made, we really have accomplished quite a bit these last two years.

Spring 2011 finds us counting our blessings and remembering a time when owning a farm was just a dream. Now the dream just gets better with each passing season. More bee hives, sheep, green houses, canning kitchen,...I could go on and on......fiber goats, a spinning wheel, cob oven, soap making, quilts to sew, food to process!

As we nourish the dream, it provides us with a way of life we never could have imagined while living in town...Dream on!

Out on the Farm...

2011-05-05T23:35:00.005-06:00

...Garlic in the garden...

...Chickens and goats in the barn...

...Bulbs blooming...

...and lots of exploring!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T09:33:00.004-06:00

Easter found us playing in the barn with the goats and chickens, watched dad rototill the garden -and then played in the soft warm soil, spied sweet native lupines reaching up to the sky, egg hunts under cloudy weather and way too much chocolate...finished off by a yummy dinner - perfect!

My Boy...Growing this Spring

2011-04-23T20:22:00.003-06:00

...Me and my boy...

Growth and new beginnings, exploring and learning, baby chicks and calves, garden love and berry wishes...Happy Easter!

Happy Earth Day 2011

2011-04-22T23:31:00.000-06:00

...My back door window serves as a constant reminder...

Cold Day to be Born!

2011-02-27T16:35:00.004-07:00

Exciting happening on the farm this afternoon, a calf was born! The girls have named her"Sunday" or depending on who you ask, "Chocolate Sunday". Happy Birthday Sunday! Welcome to the family.

Mama Goat...

2011-01-31T06:00:00.002-07:00

Sad day early this month; our mama goat, Milkyway, miscarried triplets. She was due the beginning of March...No baby goats this spring.

A Must Try: Black-Bottom Coconut Bars

2011-01-30T06:00:00.001-07:00

First of all, I take no credit for the above yumminess. This was all Ausha. She is getting quite good in the kitchen. Now if I could just get her to start preparing main dishes and not all these desserts...hum. These were made for a New Years Eve party. Yummy indeed.

Black-Bottom Coconut Bars - Martha Stewart Recipes

FOR CHOCOLATE BASE

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for pan
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 large egg
* 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

FOR COCONUT TOPPING

* 2 large eggs
* 3/4 cup sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
* 1 package sweetened shredded coconut (7 ounces), 1/2 cup reserved for sprinkling

1. For chocolate base: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving a slight overhang; butter bottom and sides of foil (not overhang).

2. Place butter in a large microwave-safe bowl; melt in microwave. Add sugar and salt; whisk to combine. Whisk in egg, then cocoa and flour until smooth. Spread batter in prepared pan.

3. Bake just until sides begin to pull away from edges of pan, 10 to 15 minutes (do not overbake). Let cool slightly while preparing coconut topping. Keep oven on for topping.

4. For coconut topping: In a medium bowl, whisk eggs with sugar and vanilla. Gently mix in flour and coconut (except 1/2 cup reserved for sprinkling).

5. Drop mounds of mixture over chocolate base; spread and pat in gently and evenly with moistened fingers. Sprinkle with reserved 1/2 cup coconut.

6. Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in center comes out with moist crumbs attached, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool completely in pan. Lift cake from pan, peel off foil, and cut into 24 bars. Store in an airtight container 3 to 4 days.

As Fog Rolls In...

2011-01-28T06:00:00.002-07:00

As the fog rolled in, I stole a moment to wander about the farm. We haven't seen much snow lately. In fact, its been a few weeks since there has been any hint of a flurry. The fog, however, has been simply fabulous. Makes this mama's heart long for the ocean and its crashing waves, bay front, and clam chowder.

Time Flies: Holiday Season 2010

2011-01-27T22:15:00.006-07:00

This Moment...

2010-12-10T09:42:00.003-07:00

A Friday Ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

Farm Fresh Eggs

2010-12-08T01:18:00.002-07:00

Nothing beats farm fresh eggs, I can't imagine ever going back. These were still warm when I snapped the photo.

Discovery

2010-11-10T06:00:00.002-07:00

Discovery. When you're a baby, that's what it's all about! And I feel so blessed to be a part of it. Last week, Finn discovered his fingers! You know, it is so easy to get caught up in the everyday activities of family life... but Finn always keeps me in check and in real time. He helps me to remember to breathe, and to breathe slowly. With Finn being my 4th babe and knowing all too well how fleeting this time really is, I am trying to soak every minute of it up.

Did I Tell You?

2010-11-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you I celebrated a Birthday last month? Well, I did. Such an eventful past year I had! I feel so very blessed...in so very many ways. Cheers to another great year!

Sweet & Spicy Pumpkin Seeds

2010-11-05T06:00:00.001-06:00

...Sharing the best pumpkin seed recipe I have to date...

1 medium pumpkin
5 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of cayenne pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil

Directions:

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut pumpkin open from the bottom, removing seeds with a long-handled spoon. Separate flesh from seeds, and reserve the flesh for another use (like Pumpkin Pie). Pumpkin should yield 1 cup seeds. Spread seeds on parchment in an even layer. Bake until dry, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour. Let cool.

In a medium bowl combine 3 tablespoons sugar, salt, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne. Heat peanut oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add pumpkin seeds and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Cook until sugar melts and pumpkin seeds begin to caramelize, about 45 to 60 seconds. Transfer to bowl with spices, and stir well to coat. Let cool. These may be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

From the Garden

2010-11-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

This was the first year for a fall garden harvest on the farm. I can't say I was very involved in the garden process, other than taking photos. Guess I was too busy remodeling a basement and preparing for the birth of my son. Understandable I would say. Anyhow, our weather was a bit odd this year making many gardeners out there in want for more. Our peppers and acorn squash rocked it though. So did our green beans and pumpkins.

I plan on being more involved with the garden this next season. And although I am excited to watch this one grow and blossom over the years, I do miss the little garden Lance built me in town. I think there is more to that story...

Goats!

2010-11-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

New residents on the farm arrived a few weekends ago...and they are the sweetest little ladies you'll ever meet!

Milkyway, who is about 18 months old, was bred right before making the move. Mookie, the 5 month old smaller female, is her half-sister. Right now, our girls are taking turns learning to milk a goat, as is everyone on the farm. We are hoping it is short lived however, and crossing our fingers Milkyway is pregnant, dropping her milk production. At some point, we would like to try our hand at cheese, yogurt and soap making.

Happy Halloween 2010!

2010-11-01T00:10:00.004-06:00

I hope your Halloween was spooky fun!

Chicken Coop

2010-10-17T15:35:00.003-06:00

With winter right around the corner, we are wrapping up some particulars on the farm. One of which is a proper chicken coop. In keeping with our desire to lesson our global footprint, we did not want to purchase all new materials for construction of the coop.

Serendipity for us, our neighbors were cleaning house and just wanted this old camp trailer off the property. It was easy to imagine how the trailer could be converted into our chicken coop.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The three RRRs. We teach our children the most important of the three is to Reduce. By giving new life to a trailer that would otherwise be sitting in a landfill, we are reducing in a big way.

The chicken coop is our big fall project and I am excited to see it transform. First however, we are welcoming two young goats to the farm and we have a bit of fence mending to do.

Oh Yes, It's Fall!

2010-10-03T23:35:00.002-06:00

Happenings Happening

2010-09-23T22:57:00.005-06:00

I want to share all the great happenings happening here at "Sugar Mountain", (which is a story in itself) but really, I don't feel the energy to do so. All of my energy is flowing straight to this little babe of mine...and of course, my other three babes as well .... the oldest will be 14 next week - ack!

I know I may be letting some things slide, but the most important, most beautiful, most fulfilling task at hand is definitely getting done -and I say everything else can wait.

How about some photos instead of more words? Right then.

The County Fair...

2010-09-06T01:35:00.003-06:00

Roxie is half an inch too short to ride the bigger rides, and too old for the younger rides. What's a girl to do? We had fun anyhow, but just like last year (and the years before that) I say we're not going again next year. Bets as to if that one sticks?

Just Like That...

2010-08-31T01:03:00.005-06:00

Family trip to the hills this past weekend.

Stopped for a pumpkin spiced mocha on the way

and just like that ~ I'm ready for fall.

How 'bout you?

Holy Smokes!

2010-08-30T20:29:00.006-06:00

Holy Smokes! Time sure does fly when you're taking it easy...
One month old Finn Eric says "Hi" today.

Summer is coming to a close mega fast now...with the 8th grader starting school tomorrow! I have another week with the younger two, but our lazy mornings have officially come to a close. My way of saying goodbye to the summer vacation? I loaded 'em up and headed down to the river for the afternoon.

I have been thinking quite a bit about this little blog, "Color Your World Pink" and I have decided it needs some re-vamping. After-all, my world is not just pink anymore. Lots on my mind, but time and energy is low.....trying to be patient with myself in this area. At this point, the most important activity for me is snuggling my little snugglebug. How very precious this time is.

All A' Smitten!

2010-08-05T17:02:00.001-06:00

August 2nd at 9:59pm, after an extremely short labor, our handsome Mr. Finn Eric arrived! Weighing in at 7lbs 13oz and 20 1/2in long, this little line-backer has us all a'smitten. We are home now, enjoying this precious little boy who has changed our lives forever. We feel so very blessed.

...Finn's first two days in photos are on our family flickr site...

Waiting Pattern...

2010-07-31T17:21:00.002-06:00

That's what we're in now, a waiting pattern. Our little boy is due for arrival anytime! I am so excited to meet this new little boy who will change our lives forever.

...Big sigh...

(Photo of the painted sky last night -gorgeous!)

Summer Family Life

2010-07-20T10:27:00.002-06:00

...Sharing a bit of family life on a summer evening...

A Stroll About the Farm...

2010-07-19T16:58:00.007-06:00

I am impressed with myself for keeping up with the 365 photo project...and in an effort to post something other than baby belly or kids, I took a stroll about the farm the other day and landed myself in the "Volkswagen Graveyard". I grew up daughter of a VW mechanic...those skills trickled down to my brother. We are storing these old beauties for him.

I only post one photo for the day over at 365, but wanted to share the rest of my photos from the "Graveyard".

Our Bees

2010-07-14T22:26:00.004-06:00

Bees...doing their thing...we feel so lucky!

Eggs!

2010-07-10T14:27:00.004-06:00

The ladies are starting to give us eggs! SO very exciting...3 eggs so far. I was standing right next to the hen as she laid the first egg, just in the middle of their yard. She let out this funky squawk and jumped a little. All the hens and "Red Rex" (the rooster) started pecking at it and cocking their heads like, "What the heck just happened?!" Thankfully, they have started doing their business in the nesting boxes.

My Independence Day 2010

2010-07-05T17:18:00.005-06:00

...Wouldn't be complete without a bit of sewing...

Enjoying the 365Project

2010-07-03T11:50:00.004-06:00

I have really been enjoying the 365 Photo Project. The other night I went for a walk around the farm in search of the "photo of the day". It was such a beautiful sunset that evening, no wind and not too hot. Perfect. I had a hard time choosing between these photos...

Just a Glimpse...

2010-06-27T23:56:00.002-06:00

Just a little glimpse of our new family room. Still working on trim and then carpet...but the big part of the job -the part we have been working on for what seems f-o-r-e-v-e-r (you know -walls, electrical, doors, taping, texturing, paint) is complete! AND -much to my relief -my main contribution is done. Now moving forward onto other projects to get ready for my little Finn...happiness and relief!

Perhaps I should mention that this remodel was not just the family room...it also included an entry room with closet and the girls room. I'll be dusting up remodel dust for a while I bet...

Lost a Lady...

2010-06-27T09:43:00.002-06:00

Yeah so...one of the dogs got a hold of a "Lady"....and now, Red Rex Rooster keeps his ladies close and is much more protective. Have to admit -it's quite entertaining to watch him boss them around. They are starting to do what chickens do in the egg department. No eggs yet -but they are definitely doing their thing!

Found Object...

2010-06-22T13:05:00.004-06:00

I have wanted a terrarium for a long time, but didn't want to settle for just any old glass container. Lucky for me, right when I wasn't looking -and- it was far from my mind, one shows up! Isn't that how it goes?

A favorite 2nd hand bargain shop is going out of business and we went to find a few needed items. Namely, a TV stand for the new family room. Of course, we found our new TV stand -and a very kickin' one at that! Four much needed dining room chairs and a few odd-ball items that I just had to have (dishes and such). Then, right by the front door, this glass globe caught my eye...perfect!!!

I was so excited, the very next day I went out and bought my plants and decided no terrarium was complete with out a few lizards....so now, I take pleasure in introducing you to Kermit and Kiwi. Such fun!

As we were putting together our lovely new terrarium, Lance took count: 4 kids, 13 chickens, 2 cows, 3 dogs, 4 cats, 14 fish, a swarm a of bees...and now, add 2 Green Anole lizards! (should we count their food of choice, crickets?)

We Have Bees!

2010-06-16T10:14:00.003-06:00

The other night Lance was out and about the farm and happened across a swarm of bees ... and today, well ~ we have a bee box in our orchard! "Sweet!" I love this photo of Lance walking across the pasture in his bee suit...

In the Hen House...

2010-06-13T08:20:00.001-06:00

One of my favorites from the gaggle of girls...how can you resist her pretty colors?

She Bakes...and I Eat!

2010-06-09T17:12:00.004-06:00

Barefoot Contessa -Parties! Carrot Cake Cupcakes

The Sister Test...Cupcake Wins!

A new enjoyment...devouring my oldest daughter's baking! Oh yes, I have been craving to bake but haven't the time. Ausha on the other hand, does. Yesterday she whipped up some apple tarts and today it was little carrot cakes topped with yummy homemade cream cheese frosting -my favorite! This isn't a new love of hers, just one that she is really starting to get good at. I think it just may be her summer break hobby...

Also new for me: The 365 photo project. A photo a day. A way to stop and take in your surroundings in a bit different way. The photo of the carrot cake was my "Day 1" submission. Wish me luck - I may need it to stay on top of this photo project!

Meet Mr. T-Bone and Sir Loin!

2010-06-03T11:41:00.002-06:00

Take Me Away...

2010-05-27T22:33:00.003-06:00

...The fresh rain and thunder storms make me long for the ocean....

Peanut Sesame Noddles...

2010-05-26T06:00:00.001-06:00

Peanut Sesame Noddles...one of my most asked for summer dishes. I don't mind making it for everyone -I love this dish too!

For peanut dressing:

1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup warm water
2 tablespoons chopped peeled fresh ginger (I always add more ginger)
1 medium garlic clove, chopped (I add more garlic too)
2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons Asian sesame oil
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes (does 1 tsp really sound like enough? I didn't think so either)

For noodle salad:

3/4 lb dried linguine fini or spaghetti
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/8-inch-thick strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/8-inch-thick strips
3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Make dressing: Purée dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth, about 2 minutes, then transfer to a large bowl.

Make salad: Cook pasta in a 6- to 8-quart pot of boiling salted water until tender. Drain in a colander, then rinse well under cold water.
Add pasta, scallions, bell peppers, and sesame seeds to dressing, tossing to combine, and serve immediately.

So the recipe says, "The secret to this Chinese favorite is not to let the noodles sit in the sauce very long — toss them together a few seconds before serving." BUT -I think it is just as good the next day...you be the judge.

Without One's Mama...

2010-05-23T06:00:00.001-06:00

Lance planted a tree last week at our favorite school...one of the elementary school kid's mom pasted away suddenly over spring break and this was our way of paying respects. This week I will deliver a flat of flowers for the kids to plant in honor of her life. Breaks my heart every morning when I see this 10 yr old boy. A life without one's Mama...

Starting a Hedgerow...

2010-05-21T06:00:00.001-06:00

Hedgerow, by definition is: a line of closely spaced shrubs and tree species, planted and trained in such a way as to form a barrier or to mark the boundary of an area. Hedges used to separate a road from adjoining fields or one field from another, and of sufficient age to incorporate larger trees, are known as hedgerows. It is also a simple form of topiary.

We are using a hedgerow to block our west pasture from the road and, more importantly, to create habitat. We've started with 15 Siberian Pea-shrubs (Caragana arborescens). We'll continue adding more shrubs and trees as the year/s progress. 15 evenly spaced pea-shrubs barely took us half-way down the fence line!

Lost LadyBug Project...

2010-05-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

Join us in participating in the "Lost LadyBug Project"

"Across North America ladybug species distribution is changing. Over the past twenty years several native ladybugs that were once very common have become extremely rare. During this same time ladybugs from other places have greatly increased both their numbers and range. Some ladybugs are simply found in new places. This is happening very quickly and we don’t know how, or why, or what impact it will have on ladybug diversity or the role that ladybugs play in keeping plant-feeding insect populations low. We're asking you to join us in finding out where all the ladybugs have gone so we can try to prevent more native species from becoming so rare."

Our Today is Forever

2010-05-18T20:33:00.000-06:00

Pollinators in Action!

2010-05-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

There were so many bees swarming in our three apricot trees that as you approached, the loud buzzing was a bit un-nerving...didn't stop me and Roxie from getting close though...pollinators are our friends!

Simple Pleasures...

2010-05-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

Simple pleasures...an outing with my Roxie.

Roxie's turn with the camera...

Growing Fast!

2010-05-10T06:30:00.001-06:00

These chicks (and my little girlie chics) are growing like crazy! Before I know it, we'll be sending the girls out to collect fresh eggs -oh yeah! Cheesy egg omelet anyone?

Lisa Leonard Design for Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-09T02:47:00.005-06:00

There was a time when I said I would never take it off, but that time came this Mother's Day. I was ready to move on, this time with a necklace that represented all of my babies, including the "little bird" that I lost summer '09. I was so happy that it arrived the day before Mother's Day, complete with all my babe's initials and a little pearl for the babe I lost. I shadow-boxed the original necklace for safe keeping.

Thank you Lisa Leonard Design...

Happy Mother's Day to all the Beautiful Mamas out there!

Very Fitting...

2010-05-09T00:46:00.005-06:00

I found this little glass bird on clearance yesterday and thought it was a very fitting find for Mother's Day.

"The Magpie foretells good luck and the arrival of a special guest + positive nesting energy"

Um, yeah -nesting for sure and expecting the arrival of a special guest. As I see it, children truly are guests -they always leave the nest! Whats the saying? -they come through you but do not belong to you?

Roxie took this photo of me yesterday, working on my 27th week of pregnancy!

Earth Day 2010

2010-04-23T17:04:00.005-06:00

Check out my "Creating for Earth Day" post over at Craft-Crazy! I have more to share in the way of Earth Day, and it involves planting lots of trees and shrubs, creating a hedgerow on the farm!

Big Big News!

2010-04-12T23:03:00.003-06:00

We have been blessed with a son! We are all so very jazzed about this new little man in our lives. I am now 23 weeks into my pregnancy and this boy of mine, Finn Eric, is such a kicker...I am falling head over heels in love.