Monday, January 23

random ramblings …

It was a quiet weekend here – a little rearranging of some bookshelves, a little snow, a lot of cuddling with my family.   I think I barely left the house at all.  But I do have some random things to share.

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Kalas Sea Salt.  A little lower in sodium and more flavorful than the supermarket boxed salt.  This Greek sea salt is a staple for cooking in my house, and you can find it in specialty stores or on-line for less than $3 for a pretty good sized shaker.  If you see it, give it a try.  I haven’t bought another salt for general cooking or the table in years. 

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As of this morning, this book was still free on Kindle.  The link is below, a couple of posts ago.  Even if you don’t have a kindle, any device that takes the Kindle App – such as an ipad or phone – will allow you to get free Kindle books.  Just be sure to check the price before you hit buy in case it changes. 

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In just two more weeks, these lovelies will be in full force at nearby Planting Fields Arboretum.  I can’t wait to get my camera on these.   And really, there are few things that I love more than a warm greenhouse on a winter’s day.  It warms my heart and my toes.  This was a past photo from the Camellia Greenhouse.   Yes, a whole big greenhouse filled with camellias.  And then an other even larger one filled with lots of lovely flowers.  Heavenly.

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After a very very long hiatus, I picked up a paintbrush for the first time this year.  I’ve a long way to go to get back to where I was when I painted all the time but it felt so good.  And even though this was last year’s resolution, it felt even better to check it off my “list”.  Hey, better late than never, right?

Best,
Stephanie

 

 

8 comments:

  1. I'm going to be on the lookout for that sea salt...I can't say it looks familiar, but it just has not been on my radar I suspect.

    And I'm so jealous about your painting...It must feel wonderful to have a paintbrush back in your hand! I hope you'll share your works on your blog. When I get back to CT I am going to sign up for a painting class at Silvermine Arts Studio...something I've always wanted to do.
    xo annie

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  2. Stephanie,
    If you need any help with painting, please do not hesitate to ask.
    It can be scary at first, but starting is the hardest part.
    happy painting and creating.
    pve

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  3. i am going to have to try that sea salt. i even like the packaging. oh goodie. i can't wait for your flower shots. they are always so beautiful and they help me get through the last stretch of winter.

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  4. The paints look so fun! Glad you are picking it back up and I hope you will share your creations!

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  5. Due to high blood pressure, I avoid salt as much as possible. That flower you shared is so pretty.

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  6. Thanks for the tip on the salt - I'll have to look for that. SOOOOO excited to see that you have picked up the paintbrush again, Steph. Please do show what you end up painting! I wanna' see!!!

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  7. hi Steph! i use Kosher salt for cooking but I'll have to give this one a try. i'm happy your are painting again, i hope you'll share your work :) have a nice day!! xo me

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  8. I do love Camellia's I have many large old camellia bushes, one prettier then the other. Yes down in the deep south they are just about spent out. This is the only time in the year I save money on not buying flowers.
    So happy to hear you are kick starting your creative juices. I am your newest follower, I love your blog. Drop by for a visit. Kathy

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