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April 10th Recognizing Farm Animals

2025-04-10T16:40:00.002-05:00

Growing up in rural Illinois has many bonuses for sure. It was a lot of fun and good green space to get out and have fun but a good way to learn work skills as well. Both of my grandparents were farmers in Greene County Illinois where corn and soybeans were king and along side many raised livestock as well. Likewise, the area is still teaming with many family farms and looks like this will continue just as it has for many generations.

Corn and soybeans are popular crops in the area. Farms in this area also raise livestock animals of cows, pigs, chickens and others. Farmers in this area should not feel alone as there are community organizations like the Greene County Farm Bureau supporting farmers in the area as well. Offering tips and ideas to help promote the farmers safety by offering training to those who need experience and those that have been in the farming business for years as well\

The National farm animal day has been created to demonstrate care of farm animals and what the great need is. The day also was created to help draw awareness to the abandoned and abused animals and the need for good safe homes. While farm animals give the world eggs, milk, cheese, meat, wool, leather and more the farmers and those responsible for caring for the animals in return offer the animals food, shelter and care.

One way to get involved is to find out how farm animals live. Visiting a farm is a great way to do this., There are many farms that are set up in southern Illinois to do just this. In addition, visit the farmers extension service and check out 4H this is a great way for kids to learn about farming and caring for animals. Perhaps you will find out many things others will not know about.

Take for instance knowing how much land you need to raise animals, what animal is the friendliest to raise, what animal is the easiest and etc....

chickens are raised easily on farms with little room. Maintenance is low as well. In addition, the chicken offers both eggs and meat
Goats are often considered the most friendliest animals to raise on the farm. In addition many find goats are comical as well.
Did you know that one farm animal that looks the dirtiest is actually the cleanest animal. Most pigs wallow in the dirt and mud but when it comes to going to the bathroom they will not do it in the same area as they like to live. They often go aside to use the bathroom so that the waste is not in the area that they live, breathe and sleep.

As a final point animals have rights of their own and here is a list to help keep those in mind

Animals have the right to sufficient food and water for their own health
Animals should be able to live in comfort and appropriate living area.

Animals should be helped and kept out of pain, injury and disease. This should be done through proper care

Animals should be able to live as they normally would in nature.

Animals should not live in fear of their handlers. Likewise they should be able to live their life without fear of abuse, neglect or cruelty.

Back to blogging

2025-01-29T12:08:00.003-06:00

I am just reentering the blog world. Because I can no longer do what I was doing working at a nursing home as an aide I have decided to come back to one of my early loves and writing in a blog. It has been some time and I guess you can say that is the reminiscing and what we are doing new. One of my loves in the past was writing daily in a blog. I had some true friends i met online. I look forward to that being a possibility as well.

What we are eating this week has been a great amount due to sales that our stores are having.

Monday and Tuesday both was thankful for a sale that Krogers had on ham. Ham was fixed up dinner style and then again in sub style as well. It was super good.

Tonight, my daughter cooking and she is making a pasta casserole. She is known for these she likes them a lot. Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is the treat for tonight.

1 lb ground beef

8 slices cooked bacon, chopped

1 cup BBQ sauce

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup cooked pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini works great!)

½ cup diced onions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Cook the Beef and Onions in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Mix the Filling: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the BBQ sauce, cooked bacon, and cooked pasta. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sweet and tangy sauce.

Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top

Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Serve and Enjoy:

Tomorrow will yet be another surprise as my daughter in law is in charge of meals that day, Once again the weekend will be mine so I will share a post later in the week as to what I serve then.

will write more later. This is my first post back and it will take me a bit to get warmed up but just wait soon I will be doing great posting again. Thanks for reading my post would love if you would leave a comment.

Patriots Day

2024-09-11T15:49:00.003-05:00

It's been 20+ years since the attack that devastated America on September 11, 2001. Three thousand individuals would lose their lives, and many first responders went down in history as hero's. Four airplanes were in the air and their missions were dictated by those flying the planes. The pentagon, the twin towers in New York and the other plane destination was not truly known. However, all of these planes would crash killing the individuals in the plane as well as many others in the areas that were hit.

What a terrifying day it was I will always remember that day. I was at work and our Administer announced turn on the TVs we are under attack. For days it seemed we were all glued to the TVs trying to find out all that we could. I felt for those families that had family members in those areas and prayed while we all wanted to hear if they had been found.

While today, September 11 is not a public holiday it is a day to remember. Many places around America have celebrations to help not only remember but to think about what we could do to make America better.

The response of this attack on America was answered by forming the Department of Homeland Security. This organization created in 2002 is responsible for border security, immigrations, disaster relief and prevention. In addition, many other steps have been taken to ensure safety. Screening of baggage by airports as well as full body scans help to insure safety to all those as well.

Shall WE Never Forget

Hot Cross Buns

2024-09-11T15:13:00.000-05:00

Hot cross buns have been around for many hundred years. Some say that they were introduced to the world by a monk who marked them with a cross in honor of Good Friday. He wanted all to share them and show love in their friendships.

Queen Elizabethan in England decided to limit the production of hot cross buns in the 16th century. They would have only been sold during Christmas, funerals and Good Friday, the Friday before Easter. This law to ban the buns was not one that was observed, and many people disagreed with the ruling. Thus, the buns were made throughout the year whenever the people wanted.

Another idea that the hot cross buns held special healing powers also was found to be a suspicion. Some that enjoyed these buns believed that if the hot cross buns were baked on Good Friday, they would never go stale and would ward off evil. In the past ages these buns would only be ate on Good Friday, however modern time has saw them baked many times throughout the year and hosting no special powers.

Make your own Hot Cross Buns

Mix dry – Place flour, yeast, sugar, all spice, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Briefly mix with stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Add wet – Add butter, milk, egg, sultanas and zest.
Standmixer: Mix for 5 minutes until a smooth elastic dough forms. Start on speed 2 then once the ingredients are combined, increase to speed 4. After 1 minute, add extra flour if required, just enough so dough comes away from side of bowl when mixing and doesn't stick terribly to your fingers. (Note 5).
Hand kneading: Alternatively, dust a work surface with flour and knead by hand for 10 minutes.
Dough is kneaded enough when it's smooth and does not break when stretched – see photos & video for before/after comparison.
Rise #1:
Leave dough in the bowl, cover with cling wrap and place in a warm, wind free place to rise until doubled in size. This will take anywhere between 30 minutes to 1 1/2 hours depending on how warm it is – see Note 6.
Forming Balls (watch video, it’s helpful):
Line a 31.5 x 23.5 cm / 9 x 13″ tray with baking paper with overhang.
Remove cling wrap and punch dough to deflate.
Dust work surface with flour, place dough on work surface, shape into a log – this will deflate the air. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
Take one piece and press down with palm, then use your fingers to gather into a ball, then roll the dough briefly to form a ball. This stretches the dough on one side and that’s how I get a nice smooth surface.
Place the ball with the smooth side up on the tray. Repeat with remaining dough. Line them up 3 x 4.
Rise # 2:
Spray a piece of cling wrap lightly with oil (any), then loosely place over the tray.
Return tray to warm place and leaver 30 – 45 minutes, until the dough has risen by about 75% (less than double in size).
Partway through Rise #2, preheat oven to 180°C/350°F (all oven types).
Crosses:
Mix flour and water until a thick runny paste forms – see video for thickness required.
Spoon into a round 3 mm piping bag or small ziplock bag then snip corner.
Remove the cling wrap and pipe crosses onto the buns. Go slow so it hugs the curves.
Baking/Glaze:
Bake in preheated oven (180°C/350°F) for 22 minutes, or until the surface is a deep golden brown. The surface colour is the best test for this recipe.
Meanwhile, place jam and water in a bowl, microwave for 30 seconds. Mix to combine.
Remove buns from oven. Use overhang to lift buns onto a cooling rack.
Brush with jam mixture while warm. Allow to cool to warm before serving.
Recipe Notes:
1. Yeast: Use any yeast labelled instant or rapid rise yeast. I use Lowan Dried Instant Yeast (red tube, sold at Woolies/Coles baking aisle).
YEAST CHECK to ensure your yeast is still active (unless you just bought/opened a fresh bottle): mix 1 teaspoon yeast with 1/2 tsp white sugar and 1/4 cup warm water (40C / 100-110F). Leave 10 minutes. Foamy and creamy, smells yeasty = yeast is good. If no foam, it’s dead. Time to get another!
Normal yeast / active dry yeast – same ingredients, but start as follows:
mix yeast, 2 teaspoons of the sugar and all the warm milk in the bowl, then leave 5 – 10 minutes until surface gets foamy;
add all the other ingredients (including remaining sugar minus the 2 tsp used above), then mix/knead per recipe; and
proceed with recipe as written.
Fresh yeast (comes in a block that crumbles, not powder like dry yeast) – use 27g/ 0.9 oz. Crumble it into the milk and let stand until it foams up, same as using active dry yeast per above.
2. Milk warmth – Scalding hot milk kills the yeast. I heat it for 45 seconds on high in the microwave. The test is this: stick your finger in. If it was a bath, would it be pleasant? Good. It’s not too hot or too cold!
3. Breads are also fluffier and more tender if made with bread flour rather than normal flour. However, this recipe works great with normal white flour too.
Flour quantity – differs all year round, and with different flour brands. Start with 4 1/4 cups to be safe (better to start sticky and add more flour as required), expect to add an extra 1/4 cup. DO NOT add too much flour – results in dry dough = tough buns.
4. Flavourings
Spices – All Spice is my default, but I also use Mixed Spice too and no one would ever know the difference. Sub with: 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp each cloves and nutmeg
Sultanas: Some recipes say to add sultanas after the dough has been kneaded or risen. If you do this, you’ll find it very hard to disperse them evenly throughout the dough. By adding them before kneading, some do get squished. But it’s not noticeable in the end resu

National Hummingbird Day

2024-09-07T20:25:00.001-05:00

Today, September 7th is the first Saturday of the month and is a day that bird lovers and others observe as The National Day of Hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are loved by those that admire them and are born with the chic and males both caring for them from time of birth. The chic will do her job as the mother, but the male is the defender of the nest and there are many things that the nest must be defended for. The hummingbird is small in nature and is threatened by pesticides, bad weather, big insects and other predators as well as any habitat changes.

The hummingbird is a brave creature choosing to fly alone often. Not only are they the only bird that can fly backwards it is one of the fastest moving birds as well. A hummingbird wings have been to be known to move as fast as 200 times a second. Most species of hummingbirds are from North and South America. It may seem odd to have this holiday at this time of year rather than spring or summer, but the hummingbird is the busiest during the months of August and September. Thus, it only seems right to bring awareness to this fast small proud bird at this time of year.

Hummingbirds have one large flaw and that is that they cannot smell. Thus, they are attracted to bright colors, and they often like to be in an area where vines and so forth are present. Bright colors as well as nectar producing plants, red and white tubular flowers and brightly colored hummingbird feeder

For all of you nature lovers there are a few other bird days that will be coming up. First, will be National Bird day in January and then a day to remember to feed the birds in February.

National Beard Day

2024-09-07T19:07:00.001-05:00

When you think of individuals with beards what characteristics come to mind?? Masculinity, rugged, wisdom and possibly even wildness. Some mean can look strong and mature, others may look rugged and strong, while others are blessed with a look of wisdom but at the same time a beard may also make some look a bit wild. Do you have a beard or love someone that does??

Beard Day is celebrated the first Saturday of September every year. History would show that all men primarily had beards until around the year 4,000 when shaving became a custom. One reason that men sported beards was because a beard helped prevent a layer of warmth. Many places around the world admired their men and the beards that they wore. In fact, one town in Sweden would ban all men without beards out of the town as a way to shame them for not having a beard.

One of the famous individuals that appreciated his look because of a beard had the word beard as part of the name he went by. Black Beard was a pirate whose real name was Edward Teach. Black Beard was around during the early American colonies that were still under British control.

Being from Illinois I would be shamed if I did not include our famous president from Illinois. President Abraham Lincoln was one of only 5 United States Presidents that sported a beard. The others were Ulysses S Grant, Rutherford Hayes who gets credit for having the longest beard, James Garfield, and Benjamin Harison. However there is another famous man that while he has never been president, he wears a full beard to aid in warmth and is recognized everywhere he goes, dressed in red and is known to the world as Santa Claus.

Don't worry for all you that do not like the look of beards or the feel of them either your day will arrive next month. On October 18th the National NO Beard Day will arrive.

Two Musicians Celebrate September 1st as their birthdays

2024-09-01T17:07:00.000-05:00

As of 12:01 am we entered the month of September. This month holds many great days for our family. Including birthdays, anniversaries and more. There are also a cople of famous singers celebrating their birthdays this month as well.

Both Conway Twitty and Barry Gibbs were born in the month of September.

Harold Jenkins better known as Conway Twitty was born September 1st 1933 in the great state of Mississippi. Conway Twitty sang music, wrote music for himself and others, and earned himself in the great hall of fame. Conway at the young age of 10 sang on the radio and also would preach a bit as well. In school he would become a baseball star of his own and even earn a chance to play professional ball by the Philadelphia Phillies. However, the army would draft Conway before he made a decision to play or not.

Elvis Presley was idolized by Conway Twitty and the military could not stop him from continuing his music. In the army Conway would form a group that would entertain the troups during down time. By 1965 Conway had left the original sound of rockabilly and was strictly playing country music. In 1970 he would write and perform one of the songs that made him famous "Hello Darlin"

In addition to music Conway Twitty would find himself starring in some movies as well. His love for baseball / softball would not disappear and he actively supported many teams and players. June 1993 would be the last that he would be seen as the star would pass away at the age of 59 just shy of his 60th birthday.

Another great singer with his own records to be proud of that celebrates September 1st as birthday is Andy Gibbs.

Born Barry Alan Compton Gibbs would be born to a musical family. With his father a drummer when Barry was born it was not hard to figure music would play a big part of this young mans life. At the age of 12 Barry and his brothers would fit the world-famous group Bee Gees. The Bee Gees would break up in 1969. Later Barry would come out on his own as solo star and his brother Andy Gibbs would also be a solo star.

Barry would not only sing and perform but write music as well. With over 100 songs wrote in total Barry holds a record for having 6 #1 songs. To honor his accomplishments Barry was added to the song writers hall of fame as well as the Rock and Roll hall of fame.

Its Raining Are You Prepared for the Flood

2024-07-30T13:52:00.004-05:00

While southern Illinois is a beautiful place to live. Weather in southern Illinois can be a bit scary at times. We live on the New Madrid fault line and fear of earthquakes have long been around. The tornado in 2012 was one that I will never forget. The storm damaged my house, and I can recall the time during the storm where the entire family took shelter waiting as the tornado blew past. There have also been many rainstorms as well as snowfalls that would put the fear into many as well.

Tornadoes, earthquakes and storms can all be scary and destructive but the weather event I want to talk about today is flooding. The Federal Emergency Management Agency better known as FEMA estimates the damage cause by flood to be in the billions. While many believe that floods occur mostly around the coastline areas they would be wrong. Rather everyone should know what to do in the case of flood to be prepared so that panic will not strike in the moment that a flood comes.

Flash flood warnings are often called and are a result of heavy downpour, storm surge, coastal storm, snow or overflow from a local dam or other waterway. Flash flood warnings issued by the National Weather Service should be paid attention to. Take note to move to a safer location. High ground locations should be safe. Thus if you are not in a safe place when the flash flood warning occurs get to a safe location so that you will not be in danger.

If you find yourself in a flooded area do not use electricity in any area that has been flooded. Water coming into contact with live electrical outlets makes the danger of being electrocuted or a fire starting possible. If you are in a flooded area where wild animals can be found stay away from the as they can be dangerous because of their fear to survive or the diseases they may carry. In a follow up post, we will share how to make a weather emergency kit so that you are prepared if you find yourself in a storm or flood.

Thank you for visiting our blog and I hope that this post will help you prepare and be ready in the case a flood should come your way.

Bananas from green to too far gone

2024-07-28T19:14:00.002-05:00

If your house is anything like mine then your shopping list normally contains a fruit item or two. Today in this post we are going to look at bananas. Ideas how to use.... HOw long they are good for and when we can no longer use.

A few of our favorite recipes that include fresh bananas are

The first time I ever tried this type of dessert was as a girl at my grandparents. My grandmother made this banana split dessert. Oh so yummy and delicious.

This recipe for frozen fruit salad is not only great on a summer hot day but also taste great and good for you.

Bananas are Good For the Body.

Bananas are good for the body as they contain fiber and other nutrients the body needs and uses. These include potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, as well as antioxidants. Bananas have been shown to help with blood sugar, aid in digestive help and with weight loss. In addition, bananas have been shown to help both heart and kidney health. For more information this article on the healthline website can tell you more.

So now I have shared with you why and how bananas are good for our health and shared a few of our favorite ways to prepare and eat. Now the only question is when is the best time to use a banana?? When it is still green around the edges, fresh and yellow, with a few brown spots or when they begin to look like this....

Common to green tomatoes you can also eat green bananas.

Green bananas are good to eat but many do not like the taste of these. Sometimes you will find green bananas mixed into smoothies. The best way to eat green bananas is by preparing it by cooking. You may not be aware but you can boil bananas and make up like mashed potatoes. Slicing and frying green bananas chips makes for a great delicious snack.

There are a few recipes that request those bananas that have aged just a bit. These recipes include banana bread

However, there comes a time when bananas can no longer be used. If one of these following 3 happen you need to get rid of the bananas as they are too far gone

If you notice any mold on your bananas, it's time to throw them away or toss them in the compost bin. ...
If a banana smells rotten or fermented or is leaking fluid, it's time to say goodbye.
If the fruit inside, not just the peel, is black, that's a sign that your banana is too far gone to safely eat.

I hope you enjoy the post and learned a bit more about bananas. If you get a chance try a recipe or two and let me know how it tasted. In addition if you have any information to add please place in comments would love to know what you think

Day for Forgiveness

2024-06-26T16:27:00.000-05:00

Are you in search of forgiveness or is there someone ort something you need to forgive?? Today may be the perfect day for that. Today, June 26th is National Forgiveness Day. It is a day to offer forgiveness to all that need it. One of the best examples of forgiveness can be found in the bible with many different stories both old and new testament. One of the best examples may be Jesus hanging on the crowd forgiving all.

Forgiveness is good for many health benefits as well. Not holding grudges and rather offer forgiveness offers reduced stress, reduced anger and anxiety and lowers blood pressure as well. The decision to release feelings of resentment can bring peace and understanding to the life of the individual forgiving as well as the one that forgiveness is being offered to. Through forgiveness empathy and compassion can be demonstrated.

Whether it be friendship, family, or a couple uniting having the ability to offer forgiveness can offer the chance of a strong relationship. There is no apology needed to give forgiveness as it is for the one offering rather tan for the one that needs it to feel better and perhaps in time the apology will come. However, the action of forgiveness helps one take full control of their feelings and helps one live a full life. After all forgiveness helps demonstrate that Love is stronger than hate.

Loved Porkchop History and a recipe

2024-06-21T17:35:00.000-05:00

Did you know that pigs have been raised for their meat by man since around 7000 BX. The chinese first domesticated pigs and normally prepared them by cooking thick slices of meat that was cut from the pigs loin or rib. Normally this meat was grilled or roasted over an open fire. Later the Romans would develop culinary techniques to prepare the pork chop. Both the wealthy and those that were poor would enjoy pork chops. Pork chops were often also preserved and later led to the use of bacon and ham. Europeans would bring pigs and the tradition of eating pork when they settled America. Porkchops are still a staple of many areas in the United States even today.

Pork chops can be prepared a number of different ways and many of these are traditions that have came from the area that they were first prepared. Chinese would marinate pork chops in soy sauce and spices , Europeans would bread and fry their chops or grill the porkchops with herbs. Many places in America will serve porkchops with barbecue sauce and often with applesauce as well. Porkchops are often prepared by grilling, roasting, fried or braised. Home cooks as well as diners often serve up porkchops.

1 pound baby yellow potatoes
▢4 tablespoons olive oil

Par-boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender when pierced with a fork.
1 pound baby yellow potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large skillet and cook the baby potatoes until the skin in golden brown. Set aside.
4 tablespoons olive oil
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
4 boneless pork chops,Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon olive oil and pork chops. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through. Set aside on a plate and cover with aluminum foil to rest.
In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, chicken broth, honey, mustard, and seasonings until well blended. Add to the skillet and cook on medium high heat until sauce thickens.
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth,⅓ cup honey,⅓ cup Dijon mustard,1 teaspoon garlic powder,1 teaspoon onion powder,½ teaspoon dried oregano,½ teaspoon ground paprika
Return the potatoes and pork chops to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

originally found this great easy porkchop recipe here

shared at the Blog Pieced Pasttimes on Saturday Sparks

Happy Juneteenth

2024-06-19T13:23:00.001-05:00

June 19th is the National Independence Day as the abolition of slavery. New holiday?? No not really just new that it is celebrated in such an Indepth manner. The date of June 17th 2021 is the day that the bill to celebrate this special day was signed into law. The special meaning behind the holiday is that June 19th 1865 was the date that word finally reached Galveston Texas that slavery had been abolished and the enslaved people of African descent were released.

Freedom was granted through the Emancipation Proclamation signed on January 1, 1863, by President Abraham Lincoln. Texas was the farthest of the Confederate states, and slaveholders there made no attempt to free the enslaved African Americans they held in bondage. This meant that President Lincoln’s proclamation was unenforceable without military intervention, which eventually came nearly 2.5 years later. United States has often seen a celebration on June 16th in cities where the Black populations would host parades, reunions, speeches and picnics. Now the date can be celebrated by all with businesses and banks closing and other events taking place.

Summer Splurging in a HOdgepodge

2024-06-19T12:38:00.001-05:00

1. It's National Splurge Day...what's something you might splurge on today? What have you splurged on recently?

groceries or something for the grandkids are the normal 2 areas that I splurge. Good prices on groceries often sees me buying more to put some up for later but other times grocery prices have went up yet i still want what I want. As far as the kids go I buy for them to much but they deserve it and they are only normal once for a bit.

2. Do you have a beach bag? What's in it? Is a trip to the beach on your summer bucket list? Do you have a summer bucket list?

We are working on a summer list. We have a few trips planned but the beach is truly not one of them. I have a travel bag where I keep snacks, bandaids, neosporin etc...

3. What's a song that makes you think of a summer past? What comes to mind when you hear it? What memories does it stir up for you?

So many great memories and individuals that are not here any longer. TO repeat some of those great times would be awesome.

4. Sushi-yay or nay? Have you actually tried it? If you love it what's your go-to order?

No have never tried

5. I own a ridiculous amount of ____________________________________.

I own a ridiculous amount of clothes it seems I often find great items at awesome prices. I have many fashion favorites

6. Insert your own random thought here.

Pictures of the grandkids where we had lots of fun.

Animal Lovers Be Aware stories about koalas, horses and disabled pets.

2024-05-03T16:45:00.000-05:00

Animal lovers all over the world will be ready for this weekend with all the awareness activities that are upon the animals.

First of all, perhaps you have seen the super cute koala bears at your local zoo. how cuddly they appear. Their word Koala means no drink and that may possibly be related to the continent they live on. While Austria is not the hottest area it is definitely one that does not receive a great amount of rain. likewise, the koala bears food is often eucalyptus leaves that are considered toxic and extremely poisonous while, the koala bears have a difficult area to live the WWF organization is trying to draw attention and help the wild koalas before they are extinct.

koalas are marsupials and are classified as such. They are related closer to the kangaroos than other bears. While wild bears live in social groups often near each other koalas choose not to be social. Their great sense of smell helps them greatly within their habitat. Unlike other bears that hibernate Koala bears sleep 18 plus hours a day and do not hibernate. They can live up to 15 years in the wild under the right habitat but due to statistics the numbers are starting to decline.

By raising awareness into what is going on where the beautiful koalas live is the place to begin and is fairly easy via social media. Using drones to tract the area where the koalas live will help bring awareness of what is going on. Planning and saving the trees where the koalas live is also very important as it is where they live. Ensuring the animals health is important as well because they are spreading disease in the community.

The way the world looked at animals, pets include changed when the animal welfare laws of 1972 were created. Disabled pets are still here to love and while like humans are very loveable but need extra care and help. Adaptive equipment, training and support for both the animals and pet owners as well, and groups for support all help disabled pets and their owners.

This weekend May 3rd and 4th the Kentucky Derby will be hosted in Louisville Kentucky. The race as taken place with the first one being ran in 1874. Three-year-old fillies will take the stage ready to run the best race they can. Owners' spectators and others are all taking bets on which horse will win. The race has taken place at Churchill Downs since Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark started them all those years ago. The gates opened for all to be welcomed in to watch the races at 9 am and the first race took place shortly after.

Have a great day with lots of animal love today as you enjoy the rest of the day.

Relax your Stress and Anxiety while Gardening

2024-05-02T17:10:00.104-05:00

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental disorders that involve excessive, irrational feelings of anxiety and fear that interfere with daily life. Some of the symptoms that are often seen with these disorders are

chronic fears or thoughts
panic attacks
fear of attacks
physically reactions, trembling, sweating, fainting, rapid heartbeat, trouble breathing, nausea or diarrhea
sleep issues
worries
avoidance or unexplained pains

Anxiety disorders are often related to genetics, environment of the individual, psychological as well as developmental factors. Some of the specific disorder names are anxiety disorder, social phobias, specific phobias, and panic disorders. Treatments for these disorders range from counseling to medication. General anxiety disorder has long action and can not be cured but can be treated.

One popular treatment is garden meditation. Spending time in nature can help with many illnesses including physical, mental, and emotional Researchers find it a very interesting topic for research. similar to gardening itself garden meditation can be done a few different ways. Meditation can be done while gardening outside in the yard, inside with house plants , or even simply being out in nature sitting on a park bench. Perhaps many knew that doing these things helped calm us but did not know that we were self meditating.

Both gardening and meditation are great ways to relieve stress. It has been shown that working in the garden has more stress capabilities than many other ways of relaxation. In addition, being outside in nature where the sunlight can shine down helps to increase the hormone known as serotonin. Serotonin helps elevate mood , calm and focus. What a great reason to spend more time outside this spring and summer.

Take your outside time personal and serious. Take a break from your phone and other distractions. Listen to the sounds of nature around you and take it all in. Likewise your plants should take a priority during your gardening time. In the end you will have a beautiful garden and be calmer as well.

2. you can find another great post here

International Cat Rescue Day

2024-03-02T17:50:00.002-06:00

International Cat Rescue Day has been celebrated around the globe since 2019 on March 2 of each year. It’s a day to bring awareness about cats in shelters needing loving, forever homes. Approximately 3.4 million cats enter U.S. shelters each year, with roughly 2 million adopted out yearly. There are many reasons these cats are there in the shelters but that is not the point here. What we would like to do is share with all those interested that there are cats out there that can offer love and simply need a place to do that

First if you are looking for a cat to be your pet then please visit your local animal shelter. Shelters set up their own rules and fees so these can differ from place to place. If you are not able to adopt a cat currently but you have extra time, offer to volunteer at the local animal shelter. Thus you will be helping the community and offer all the cats and kittens in the shelter the love that they so want.

IF you want to help all those cats and kittens but have no extra time considering donating to the local animal shelter. Shelters are always in need of money as well as other items such as blankets, food and beds. Shelters offer cats a place to stay where they are safe but also give all cats their shots that are needed as well. In addition, if you are not an individual that loves that cute kitten stage the shelter also has adult cats to offer.

If you are all ready a cat owner then on this day please spoil the cat just a bit more. Showing them love, offering a treat can show your cat yoou love them after all they are amazing companions.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

2024-03-02T16:37:00.000-06:00

Dr. Seuss was born Theodor Seuss Geisel on March 2nd 1904. Today is his birthday and also part of Read Across America that attempts to get young people reading. Dr. Seuss is an author and cartoonist that has written over 60 books. There has been a total of 600 million books sold that has been translated in 20 languages around the world. However, it has not always been easy for Dr. Seuss.

During the life of Dr. Seuss he has worked at advertising for companies such as Standard Oil company. Political Cartoons created by Dr. Seuss would be shared in papers during World War II. The work that went into his first book was met with many denials. The Book And To Think I Saw It On Mulberry Street was rejected a total of 37 times. Finally in 1937 because he was persistant and kept trying and one of his old friends became the editor for a book company the book was made it would be the first of over 60

It all began that day as many more books would follow, In the meantime Dr. Seuss would share political cartoons during World War II.

The book The Cat in the Hat would be published in 1957 by Random House after Geisel read and responded to an article that was in LIFE magazine. In the article children's reading levels were criticized. Houghton Mifflin and Random House asked if he could write a children's primer that had 220 vocabulary words.

At about the same time Dr. Seuss would write a book about a cranky, solitary creature that would attempt to steal Christmas from the town of Whoville. Yes, that is right the book How the Grinch stole Christmas book would be published by Random House. In 1966 the book would be adapted into a movie and has been adapted many times since then.

In 1991 Geisel famed as being Dr. Seuss would pass away. His ashes would be scattered in the Pacific Ocean. Thank you Dr. Seuss for bringing your wisdom and talent to create books and characters that would shine for many years.

Eating Disorders

2024-02-26T18:44:00.009-06:00

This week is a week where many are trying to bring awareness to eating disorders. Eating disorders are not new but often hidden. In face some eating disorders have been around since ancient Romans who would over eat at feasts. Then the other end of that syndrome are Europeans that have starved their selves for religious reasons. England physicians in the 17th century who first diagnosed eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Furthermore Eating disorders were given their own treatment manual and guide in 1980 in the United States.

The definition of Anorexia Nervosa is an emotional disorder characterized by an obsessive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat. Symptoms common to anorexia nervosa include:

unhealthy obsession of being thin / underweight
denial of being underweight
irrational fear of gaining weight
extremely restricted eating patterns

There are more than 6 million Americans that have experienced bulimia during their life. The actions involved in this disorder will see someone eating or binging on large amounts of food then making their self purge it all back up. This is often done by vomiting but can be done through laxative use or excessive exercise.

Symptoms include

Repeated episodes of binge eating
Purging after eating
Irrational fear of gaining weight
Using enemas, diuretics or laxatives unnecessarily

This week I wll be sharing more on eating disorders here on Annies HOme. THanks for visiting.

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Chocolate Pistachio Granola

2024-02-26T17:26:00.006-06:00

Pistachio nuts were not always considered nuts but were once considered kernel of the Anacardates fruit. The plant grew in the mountain range of west Asia and Turkey. It was the dry summer heat and cool winters that would help the pistachio grow. Today pistachios are cultivated in the U.S. Iran, Syria, Turkey, and China.

Pistachios as a member of the nut family are high in protein. There is 6 grams of protein in one serving equal to 49 pistachio kernels or 1 oz of nuts. The amino acids gathered from breaking down the nuts are used to repair tissues or create new molecules. Vitamin B6 is also gained from pistachio nuts. Vitamin B6 helps protect the body from cardiovascular disease, cancers, and some cognitive functions bad for the body.

The following recipe is perfect for the campaign Make Chocolate count. This campagin goes til the end of Easter. The best part is this recipe also has pistachio nuts which is the nut of the day.

3 1/2 cups quick oats

4 Tbs butter

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries

1/4 cup shelled pistachios

1/4 cup almonds, roughly chopped

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

In a medium sauce pan melt butter and honey then add in brown sugar and mix until completely combined.

Stir in oats and mix until evenly coated then spread in an even layer on a lined baking sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Allow to cool and stir in your dried cranberries, pistachios, almonds, and chocolate chips.

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Bacon Wrapped Chicken Legs

2024-02-26T16:56:00.013-06:00

These chicken drumsticks will please the crowd and they are easy to make as well. The first thing you do is to season your chicken drumsticks use any seasoning you would like but I normally sprinkle on some salt, pepper, garlic powder. Marinade can be used as well if you would like.

Wrap each leg in a piece of bacon. Take your time this can be done. It may be slippery but when you finally have it be sure to secure the ends of bacon under the leg to secure them in place. When leg is wrapped then go ahead and wrap in plastic wrap.

Place the wrapped legs in a baking dish. Pour 1/2 cup of water into dish and cover with foil. Bake in 250 oven for 50 minutes. Take out of oven but do not unwrap for the next 30 minutes.

Unwrap the chicken, heat cast iron grill pan over medium heat. Brush a bit of canola oil on the chicken legs. When the pan is heated add the drumsticks and cook each side (4) for 3 minutes each. Lower heat and cook a bit more til done

Well we are getting there but not there yet. We have one final step to complete and that is to make a glaze for the chicken.

Mix juice of 1/2 lemon, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to make this delicious glaze. Use a brush and brush the glaze on the chicken and cook til they hit perfection

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Taco Dip for Chips

2024-02-24T22:23:00.008-06:00

Tortilla chips are loaded with carbohydrates and fiber. A combination that can give you extra energy to get through the day. They also offer dietary fiber which can help reduce cholesterol in your diet and may reduce risk of heart disease. Packed with essential minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus. Great source of fiber as well.

Taco Dip

8 ounces cream cheese, softened*

1 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

¾ cup salsa

2 teaspoons each cumin and chili powder

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper

1 cup Mexican blend cheese

1 cup chopped iceberg lettuce

1 tomato, chopped

¼ cup sliced black olives

Optional toppings: minced red onion, chopped cilantro, pickled jalapeños

In a large bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, salsa and spices until it’s fully smooth. The mixture will start out chunky, but keep whisking until the cream cheese is fully smooth. (It takes a few minutes, so be patient!)

Place the cheese mixture in the bottom of a circular glass pie plate or other circular dish. Smooth into an even layer.

Top with the cheese, chopped lettuce, chopped tomato, black olives, and other optional toppings. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or refrigerate until serving. (Leftovers last up to 3 days refrigerated.)

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Take your dog for a walk

2024-02-22T21:43:00.009-06:00

The one thing that most of us and our 4 legged family member the dog can do together and make you both feel better. It offers you both to get out and exercise and enjoy fresh air. Walking your dog may or should be a bit more exciting than walking alone. You may even enjoy it so much that it does not seem like exercise but something that you look forward to. In fact the dog may look forward to getting out and spending time with you as well. However, getting the walks to turn into routine will take a bit of work and in this post I would like to share with you a few different tips and tricks for taking your dog on a walk.

The walks with your dog should benefit both yours and the dogs health. First of all walking will help with your weight control and it will also help control your dogs weight. Before the first walk you will want to find the right collar and leash. Choose so that it is not too tight or too loose for the dog either one of those could hurt the pet. Start on short walks that take 15 to 20 minutes to start this will help the dog get used to taking regular walks.

Dogs that are simply left at home often can easily get bored leading to destructive patterns. Allowing your dog to go on walks with you gives them something to look forward to and gets them out to see, feel and hear nature. You will want to use firm directions on the walk to let the dog know where to go and what he can and can not do. Heres to taking a walk with your dog may you both enjoy it.

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Sweet Potato and recipe

2024-02-22T21:19:00.010-06:00

Sweet Potatoes may surprise you as large, starchy, sweet tasting potato part of the morning glory family and often used to make french fries, potato chips as well as casseroles and other dishes.

sweet potatoes grow underground like other potatoes and store water, energy, starch and carbs. Sweet potatoes are known as tuber plants and work like carrots, beets, parsnips and turnips. The sweet potato plant is native to central and south America. Some may think that sweet Potatoe is another word for yam. This is a totally wrong statement as yams and sweet potatoes are not even related. Yams are related to grasses and lilies native to Africa and Asia and as they grow develop rough dark bark like skin. In addition, some yams com in a variety of colors. However, sweet potatoes develop smooth skins.

The recipe we are using to salute sweet potatoes is

Sweet Potato Balls

1 lb sweet potatoes
½ cup glutinous rice flour
¾ to 1 cup white rice flour
¼ cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Place in a steamer and steam for 10 minutes until soft. Transfer to a large bowl and mash with a potato masher.
Add glutinous rice flour, white rice flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix with a spatula until a soft dough forms. If dough is still a little wet, mix in some additional white rice flour. Dough should be soft but not sticky.
Pinch a little dough from the bowl and roll between palms to form a 1-inch diameter ball. Repeat until all dough is used up.
Fill a medium sized saucepan with 1 inch vegetable oil over medium low heat. Gently drop a few sweet potato balls into the hot oil. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Sweet potato balls should float when cooked. Remove with tongs and drain on a metal strainer. Repeat until all sweet potato balls are cooked.
Serve immediately.

recipe resource here

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All About Grapefruits

2024-02-20T19:40:00.009-06:00

Texas grapefruits were always in our house during part of the year. I had an uncle Bill who would travel to the state of Texas to visit and bring back large sacks of oranges and grapefruits. We had both yellow and pink grapefruits and boy were they tasty. February is national grapefruit month the purpose is to remind individuals to eat and enjoy citrus fruit because they are not only tasty but they offer great nutrients as well.

Did you know that grapefruits were not always plants that grew wild in the United States?? Barbados was the first place in the 1700s that the grapefruit was found. It was a mix of the pomelo fruit and sweet orange. The grapefruit plant would travel through the west Indies before making it to the United States in 1800s.

There are parts of California and Texas that are warm enough to have a year-round season for growing grapefruit. There are parts of Florida and Arizona that also grow grapefruit with shorter seasons. In addition, other warm parts of the world grow grapefruit as well. Since they are growing in so many places it makes it even easier to find a grapefruit to eat.

Grapefruits help build up a faster metabolism and lowers cholesterol

Helps flush out toxins and leads to better skin.

There is 73% of needed daily vitamin C in just 1/2 of a grapefruit.

You should try to have a healthy nutritious grapefruit for part of your breakfast, a snack or serve one up as dessert. Grapefruits are perfect for sharing with their large size they are easy to half then separate the sections with a fork or spoon. In fact, there is a grapefruit spoon designed to enjoy and make eating grapefruits easier.

Enjoy a healthy and nutritious grapefruit as part of a breakfast meal, for a snack or even as dessert. And, many times, grapefruits are so large that they can be shared with a family member, roommate or some other friend! Cut the grapefruit in half to eat it and enjoy it by separating the sections with a fork or spoon. Some people even appreciate having a special spoon with jagged edges that can be used just for eating this fruit.

When I eat grapefruit, I sprinkle sugar on top to combat against the sour flavor some grapefruits have. Other people though use salt instead of sugar.

Did You Know:

The individual that came up the name of this fruit was a Jamaican farmer. He offered the name grapefruit as the pieces of fruit grew like a cluster of grapes. Clusters of grapefruits can have as many of 25 pieces of fruit.

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welcome home birds

2024-02-20T14:17:00.005-06:00

Have you seen them yet?? You know are friends with feathers that travel south for winter. Yes our bird friends will be back soon if they have not arrived all ready. This winter was not as cold as some we have had in the past but hopefully spring weather is coming and to me the birds are part of the spring community. February is the time of year when the birds often start arriving back to their homes after their long journey. Our goal should be to welcome them home with food and water as we will be ready to listen to their lovely voices. In fact, National bird feeding month was established in 1994

While not everyone feeds the birds through a feeder it is clear that some do. In addition, you may want to feed those pesky squirrels as well.

Wide-mouth Mason jar and band

Crafting wire (or strong ribbon)
Spoon with a fairly flat handle
Secure the band on the jar
With the Mason jar upright, hold the spoon against it. The spoon’s handle should be pressed against the side, and its bowl should be up above the top of the jar. This will create a little ledge for the squirrels to stand on
Wrap wire around the jar and spoon handle to secure them together
Find a fence or tree for your feeder. Use more wire to attach it and hold it in place

Squirrel FoodSquirrels love walnuts, hickory nuts, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and peanuts with the shells on. Make sure you only give them raw, unsalted varieties.

Tip: Make sure you place your feeder where you can see it from a window. Watching the squirrels — and other animals — stop in and feast will be so much fun for the whole family. Meanwhile, your birds will be enjoying their own yummy treats!

Earlier in the month individuals were watching for doves and cupids when love was in the air but there are more feathered friends coming in the shape of wild birds. A mixture of one part of vinegar and nine parts water is a good solution to clean out the bird feeders. Bird baths are great for the birds to get water for drinking and bathing. In addition, bird baths will help birds maintain their healthy feathers to help them in flight.

While you are getting ready for the birds to come why not make up some easy feeders that the entire family can help with.

click the link above for directions

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