tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24545150312409816312024-03-17T11:29:22.799-07:00Maison JenMaison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.comBlogger181125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-45891874211912725892021-01-05T07:01:00.006-08:002021-01-12T23:24:16.639-08:00Bearings <p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-87bi_mfngEM/X_R91s67DYI/AAAAAAAADNI/cihEd9JEJLcNAYKn1ScWvN9jnfpHLZE0ACLcBGAsYHQ/IMG-7090.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1583" height="640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-87bi_mfngEM/X_R91s67DYI/AAAAAAAADNI/cihEd9JEJLcNAYKn1ScWvN9jnfpHLZE0ACLcBGAsYHQ/w496-h640/IMG-7090.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><br /><p></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Bearings</b> - Def. T<span style="font-family: times;"><span style="background-color: white;">o find out where one is or to find out what one should do next.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;">On the 1st of January 2018, I didn't write out my usual list of resolutions. That year I decided to have a one-word theme instead. The end of 2017 had been difficult for me and my family so I decided to go easy on myself when New Year's Day rolled around. This was not a year for writing out long lists of improvements. Things like 'I will eat fish at least three times a week' or 'Vegetables will take up a third of my plate' just didn't seem appropriate.</p><p>On the morning of the 15th of January 2018, I tweeted my word along with the Collins dictionary definition. I chose Optimism. </p><p><i>Optimism - is the feeling of being hopeful about the future or about the success of something in particular. </i></p><p>I had something in particular in mind when I tweeted that word, but what happened that night changed my year, my word, and my life completely.</p><p>On the 27th of January, I tweeted my new word - Resilience. <i>The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.</i> The rest of my year was spent focusing on that.</p><p>I'm a long-standing listener of the Happier podcast by Gretchen Rubin. This was where I got the inspiration for my one-word theme. She explains choosing a word for the year by saying "identifying one idea, summed up in one word, as an over arching theme for the entire year". Your word can be anything. This year for 2021, her word is open. Her sister Liz, who joins her on her podcast every week chose butterfly.</p><p>This is my fourth year having a one-word theme. I plan to always have one alongside an annual plan (resolutions have never worked for me, I need goals instead).</p><p>Last year my word was growth, an unfortunate choice in hindsight for the year it turned out to be. The year before, having just started a business and also an intense business development program that required frequent pitching to panels, my word was brave. I needed all the determination and bravery I could muster that year.</p><p>This year my word is Bearings.</p><p>After a unique year and a bad fall in 2020 I've decided the best thing for me to do this year is to rein everything in. I can do anything, but I can't do everything. I need to pare things back down to basics and start building them up again with much stronger foundations. I need to stop, get my bearings, and set out a definitive plan. </p><p>Seth Godin on his blog on New Year's eve said that 2021 is the product of the prime numbers 43 and 47. He writes, If you were looking for a reason to be optimistic, that's as good as any. </p><p>I've got a good feeling about 2021.</p><p>As my good friend Julie so nicely put it - May 2021 bring peace, health, happiness, and lots of HUGS.</p><p>Happy New Year.</p><p>xx</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-31801847984732001662020-10-28T03:33:00.014-07:002020-11-17T02:53:53.096-08:00Pinhead Oatmeal<p><span style="font-family: times;">Oats are nourishing, they fill you up, and they taste delicious; I honestly can't think of a better way to start the day! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: times;">I've eaten an oat-based breakfast more or less every morning for as long as I can remember, </span><span style="font-family: times;">with overnight oats, homemade granola, and r</span><span style="font-family: times;">olled oats made with plant milk a</span><span style="font-family: times;">ll featuring regularly. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pL7riggcjFU/X5lGf-vljgI/AAAAAAAADLY/ZBvwncOmyN4Sd56qctHVmChl4NTxPLoxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG-6763.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1672" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pL7riggcjFU/X5lGf-vljgI/AAAAAAAADLY/ZBvwncOmyN4Sd56qctHVmChl4NTxPLoxQCLcBGAsYHQ/w522-h640/IMG-6763.jpg" width="522" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><br /><br /></span><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times;">B</span><span style="font-family: times;">ut recently I've started making pinhead oatmeal. </span><span style="font-family: times;">These </span>look completely different to rolled oats, or ‘normal’ porridge, both before and after cooking with a much coarser texture, and a chewier, nuttier bite. </p><p>So, if you’re like me and wake up before everyone else in the morning this is a really handy weekday breakfast, if not then keep this as a weekend alternative for your hungry little bears.</p><p> Prep time: Cook time: Total time:
2 mins 38 mins 40 mins </p><br /><span style="font-family: courier;"><br /><b>What you’ll need:</b> </span><br /><br /><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">1 cup of pinhead oatmeal<br /> 1.5 cups of water, just boiled water from the kettle will speed up the boiling process<br /> 2 cups of oat milk or almond milk<br /> Pinch of salt<br /> Half a teaspoon of vanilla extract<br /> 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional) </blockquote><br /><span style="font-family: courier;"> To serve: </span><br /><br /><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;">Maple syrup<br /> Toasted nuts</blockquote><p> </p><span style="font-family: courier;"><b>How to make a hearty, nourishing bowl of pinhead oatmeal:</b> </span><br /><br />In a medium pot add one cup of oats, one and a half cups of water, two cups of almond milk, half a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. <div><br /></div><div>Turn up the heat to high and bring to the boil stirring every so often to prevent the oats from sticking to the pan; this will only take a couple of minutes. When the first bubbles start to form turn the heat right down to low, partially cover and simmer stirring occasionally for 30 mins. Remove the lid for the last 5 minutes of cooking to thicken the oats. <div><br /></div><div>When cooked I love to add a tablespoon of coconut oil to the pot to give the oatmeal an unctuous silky texture and a subtle coconut taste. </div><div><br /></div><div>To serve pour a good drizzle of maple syrup, and sprinkle with toasted nuts. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Jen x</div>Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-343658284703829092020-05-09T01:00:00.000-07:002020-05-09T01:03:28.063-07:00Ginger & Honey Tonic<div style="background-color: white; color: #151b26; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There are summer drinks and there are winter ones, and this for me is definitely a winter one, but because of the time we're in I thought it was fitting to post this simple refreshing recipe as we're drinking this almost every day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Like lots of things at the moment, things we presumed were set in stone have been creatively adapted for purpose, and I've discovered a new and just as tasty alternative to our winter 'under the weather' drink. None of us are thankfully feeling unwell but with all its health properties and benefits we've decided it's a particularly good drink to have at the moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ginger acts as an anti-oxidant, has powerful enzymes for digestion, eliminates toxins and purifies blood, which is why during winter when I feel a cold coming on, I sip this soothing hot drink. But with the good weather we're enjoying at the moment, and in an attempt to eat and drink more nutritiously, especially to help boost our immune systems, I decided to try this as a refreshing ice-cold drink instead, and it's just as delicious.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>What you will need:</b></span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3 tablespoons of grated fresh ginger, frozen for a finer grate</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3 slices of ginger</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3 tablespoons of honey</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>How to make refreshing ginger and honey tonic:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Boil one liter of water in a pan. Add 3 tablespoons of grated fresh ginger, 3 slices of ginger, 3 tablespoons of honey, and set aside to cool. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">To serve, I like to add a slice of lemon and a spring of mint and sip with a straw.</span></div>
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Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-30126486016688126612020-05-06T23:53:00.000-07:002020-05-09T01:01:06.296-07:00Scrambled Eggs with Spinach and Crème FraîcheWhat started as our 'special occasion' weekend breakfast, has now become a regular lunch.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>For years I made scrambled egg the traditional way, with melted butter, whisked eggs, cooked over a low heat, and served on toast. They tasted just the way I liked them until one Christmas for a family brunch on Christmas day, to make them taste extra indulgent, I mixed in some double cream. They were amazing! From that Christmas on, my new way to make scrambled eggs always included cream - melted butter, eggs with double cream whisked together, and a little salt. Until recently, when I was out of cream but had some crème fraîche in the fridge, so to compensate for the cream I mixed in a couple of tablespoons of crème fraîche at the end and it took the eggs to next-level deliciousness. Paired with spinach, also with a little creme fraiche mixed in, this is our new scrambled egg lunch recipe...<br />
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SERVES 2<br />
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<b>What you will need:</b><br />
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<u>For the scrambled egg:</u><br />
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<ul>
<li>25g butter</li>
<li>4 large eggs, whisked</li>
<li>Fine sea salt</li>
<li>Ground black pepper</li>
<li>2 level tablespoons of crème fraîche</li>
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<u>For the spinach:</u><br />
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<ul>
<li>1 tablespoon of olive oil</li>
<li>Knob of butter</li>
<li>1 garlic clove, minced</li>
<li>150g fresh baby leaf spinach, roughly chopped</li>
<li>Fine sea salt</li>
<li>Freshly ground black pepper</li>
<li>Nutmeg, grated</li>
<li>1 heaped tablespoon of crème fraîche</li>
</ul>
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<b>How to make delicious spinach and scrambled eggs:</b><br />
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Heat the oil, butter, and garlic together in the pan over a medium heat, I like to start the pan off cold and gradually bring up to a medium temperature so the garlic doesn't burn.<br />
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Roughly chop the spinach.<br />
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When the garlic starts to sizzle and colour add your spinach and season with the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.<br />
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Put the lid on and fry over a medium heat for 3 - 4 minutes or until the spinach is wilted.<br />
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Take off the heat and add the crème fraîche and stir well, the spinach will stay warm with the lid on until the eggs are ready.<br />
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Next heat 25g butter in a large pot over a medium-high heat. Whisk the eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. When the butter starts to sizzle add your whisked egg. Using a heatproof spatula keep stirring, get right into the edges and mix until the eggs begin to set. Add the crème fraîche just before the eggs are fully set and cook for a final minute or two.<br />
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Serve with wholegrain toast.<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-66038634757953130422020-04-22T04:26:00.002-07:002020-06-20T06:49:06.693-07:00Tzatziki<div class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A certain time of year rolls around, usually around now, when I crave this fresh, tangy, yogurt and cucumber dip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I rarely make this during winter, I need long evenings and warm temperatures for my craving to start. In late spring though, when we start to eat out in the garden I use any excuse to serve it, and thankfully it goes perfectly with so many different types of food that I seem to have lots of opportunities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sometimes we eat it with pita and crackers for dipping, other times as a side garnish with our evening meals, it's a perfect accompaniment with fresh summer salads, and I adore it spread thickly on slices of fresh bread loaves or on top of a homemade burger.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have experimented so much with this over the years that I finally have the recipe just the way I like it - heavy on the herbs and cucumber, light on the lemon juice, with perfectly prepared cucumber.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">YIELDS 3 - 4 CUPS</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What you will need:</span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 cucumber</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Fine sea salt, approximately 1/2 a tablespoon - this will help to extract the water from the cucumber</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">500ml Greek yogurt </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 tablespoon of olive oil</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 tablespoon of lemon juice</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 teaspoon of Maldon salt</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A couple of grinds of black pepper</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mint </span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Equipment at the ready...</span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Box grater</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Large bowl</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Garlic mincer</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">How to make the dip:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Start by preparing the cucumber by removing as much of the water as you can, this will ensure that the finished dip has a perfect balance of flavours and consistency, and won't be diluted by the water from the cucumber.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cut the cucumber in half and scrape out the seeds from the center with a teaspoon. Grate the cucumber (there is no need to peel the skin) by using the largest sized grate on a box grater. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Next drain the water from the cucumber. Place in a sieve over a large bowl, sprinkle generously with fine sea salt and mix. You could at this stage leave to drain overnight, but as I'm impatient especially when it comes to food I like to help it along by placing a second smaller bowl on top and then my heaviest pestle and mortar on top of this. The liquid will start to drain immediately. To help it along I mix the cucumber around every so often with a fork and replace the weight on top. When the cucumber stops dripping it's ready, this will take about two hours and the drained excess water should yield almost a cup.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When the cucumber is ready, scoop</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> out the Greek yogurt into a medium-sized bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice and season with salt and pepper</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mix in the drained grated cucumber. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Add finely chopped mint to taste, for me, that's about 3 - 4 tablespoons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I used to add a clove of minced garlic, but the flavour always seemed too intence. While I absolutely adore garlic I do think in tzatziki it's best left out, but try it for yourself and see which you like best.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, and mint leaves. Serve, as I do, with anything you like!</span></div>
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Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-13342431978589016252020-04-18T02:05:00.003-07:002020-04-22T07:29:12.079-07:00Quesadilla<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I hope this post finds you safe and well, and you are managing to navigate through these unprecedented times. We are trying to take as many of the positives from this pause as we can, and while staying home can be challenging at times each one of us has just about settled into our new rhythm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;">The good weather has certainly helped! And last Friday - with cloudless blue skies, and the sun warm on our faces - felt exactly like a perfect summer day. I had that rare heavenly feeling of having nothing to do, and the best part about it all it’s still only spring 🥰</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It’s not often that a single day can go down on the calendar as one of ‘the best days’ but Friday 10<sup>th</sup> 2020, for us, definitely could. It was a yin and yang kind of feeling though but for me that’s always been the best kind. The best memories come when things don’t go to plan when opposites collide and make magic. It was Friday, a long bank holiday Easter weekend, usually a time when the summer season unofficially starts (this weekend we're usually in Sea Lodge), yet everyone on the island was in semi-lockdown. It was odd for us to stay indoors at such a festive time so we flipped it to a positive and turned our lockdown into a forced staycation of sorts – our holiday spent at home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The past few days of exceptional weather are days when I find myself spending as little time as I can indoors and as much time as I can outside. In a practical sense, this means I usually have our evening meal outside in the garden on chopping boards, meals you can eat with your hands. It’s a no plates, no cutlery kind of thing. While I’m usually a stickler for table manners (especially indoors) that goes by the wayside when temperatures start to soar - some of us are even able to eat while playing football..! I did say etiquette goes out the window on days like these.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is a recipe for one of our most loved garden meals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What you will need:</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">To poach the chicken:</span></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 liter of water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2 teaspoons of fine sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4 chicken breasts </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">To prepare the Quesadillas:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">8 tortilla wraps</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">300g jar of mild salsa</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">100g frozen sweetcorn</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">100g cheddar, grated</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chicken pieces</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">200g sour cream</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The best equipment to use:</span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Large pot</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pancake pan – substitute: large flat frying pan</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">How to make handheld garden quesadillas:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Firstly poach your chicken. Poaching the meat will ensure that it stays beautifully tender and moist and can be easily shredded once cooked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Add the cold water, salt, and chicken breasts to a large pot (just cover the chicken - approximately one litre). I usually add a small carrot, half an onion, and celery at this point to flavour the water but this is not a necessary step. You need the water to come up to the boil, keep a good eye on it, and as soon as it starts to bubble immediately lower the heat to a simmer and cook over a very low heat for 10-12 mins, or until the juices run clear in the thickest part of the breast. Remove the chicken from the poaching liquid, leave to cool and rest for 10 minutes and then tear or shred into bite-sized pieces. To easily shred the meat, slice the breast in half lenghtways and shred apart with two forks. You could also buy a rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into pieces with a fork in the same way.</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">To make the quesadillas, heat the pan over a medium-high heat and brush with olive oil.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">On one half of your tortilla wrap spread generously with salsa. Next, on top of the salsa, sprinkle the grated cheese and sweetcorn (no need to defrost as the corn will cook from the heat of the pan). And lastly, place pieces of chicken on top. On the other half of the tortilla spread the sour cream then fold in half and press down firmly. Assemble all 8 tortillas in the same way.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Place two folded tortilla halves onto the pan and cook on one side until golden, 4 - 5 minutes approximately depending on how hot the pan is. Once cooked on the first side flip the two halved tortillas and cook until golden on the other side. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Remove from the pan and place each tortilla on the chopping board and slice each tortilla half into four slices. Cook the remaining tortillas on the pan, serve just as they are or with a side of guacamole for dipping - staycation heaven!</span></div>
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Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-64477220732145966112019-07-18T08:16:00.003-07:002020-05-09T01:02:29.762-07:00Sun Holiday Essentials | Tips for Travelling Light with Children<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">When travelling I always want to keep our luggage to a minimum and
I usually don't do too badly but on occasion have ended up arriving home with a
surplus of unworn, unused items. This time, however - after learning from all
my previous travel experiences and mistakes - I finally got it right and ended
up packing super light for five people with absolutely everything we needed
when there.</span></i><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt;">After
a wonderful holiday in the South of France we have just returned this week back
to Dublin. Pure blue skies, beach days and warm balmy nights are my idea of
heaven and whenever we're getting ready for a family trip like this I try to
pack as light as possible.</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Of
course when packing the destination is paramount and so is the time of year. We
had soaring daily temperatures and a night-time average of 28 degrees which
really reduced the bulk and weight of our luggage. If you're travelling
somewhere cooler you'll probably need a bigger suitcase! This year we managed
to pack two carry-on suitcases, one for me and one for David, and one larger
case for the boys which included their toiletries and ours, and a few extra
items. Backpacks for the boys are also a must which included snacks and
activities for the plane.<b> </b>The ones we have are soft and lightweight so they can
be squeezed into the back of rental cars and under aeroplane seats.</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">One
of the best things about travelling with my family is that I feel comfortable
in whatever I wear so I can pack a small suitcase and mix and match. I’m not
seeing the same friends or colleagues each day so I can wear what I want as
often as I want. And from past experience I've learnt that no matter how many
pairs of shorts I pack I end up wearing the same one or two for the entire
holiday, and I'm often in a bikini and beach dress during the day anyway so
even the ones I do pack don't get much wear.</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Here
is, after 13 years of travelling with kids, my go-to lightweight sun holiday packing
list...</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I've
learned the easiest way to plan is to divide up the packing list into
categories. One for clothes to pack, one for beach-wear and another for the
clothes they travel in - the clothes they travel in are another set they can
wear which can often be forgotten about when writing out packing essentials.</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Clothing for the boys:</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Daytime & Evening Wear (each)</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">2 pairs of shorts<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">4
T-shirts<o:p></o:p></span></li>
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polo shirt<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">2
pairs of runner socks<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">5
underpants<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">1 pair of pyjamas</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Beach Wear</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Sun hat<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">2
swim shorts<o:p></o:p></span></li>
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rash vest<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Sun
glasses<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Crocs<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Goggles<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Arm bands<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Travel Outfit</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Shorts<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">T-shirt<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Hoodie<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Runner
socks and underwear<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Slip-on
runners<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Lightweight waterproof jacket with a hood<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Extras:</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Backpacks</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">We’ve
been using individual backpacks when travelling for all the boys since our
youngest was two. They’re essential on travel days for carrying snacks and
activities for the plane and when we arrive at our destination they also come
with us to restaurants to keep little ones occupied. </span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Copy
books<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Crayons <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Markers<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Travel
sized games like Uno, Rubix cube<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Book<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">For
Ross:</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Headphones<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Kindle <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Phone
for music<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Notebook
and pen</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Inflatable booster seats (x2)</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">These
are really handy for the plane and save on the car hire cost. We have the
Bubblebum brand which is great. They also attach to the carry-on bags which is
ideal.</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Flat cotton or Turkish/Hammam towels</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">These
thin beach towels are perfect for sun holidays, they’re hard wearing for humid
conditions, less heavy when wet and dry much more quickly. They’re lighter to
pack so take up less space and they can also double as a sarong or picnic
blanket.</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Toiletries</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I
pack all my makeup and toiletries in travel sized containers and buy shampoo,
conditioner, body wash and toothpaste when I arrive which is enough for the
five of us for the length of our stay. Other items we all use are:</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">La
Roche Posay sun creams - Factor 30 and Factor 50<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Toothbrushes<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Nail
scissors<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Mosquito
repellent<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">La
Roche Posay Body Milk</span></li>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Medical travel kit </span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Thankfully
the only things we usually need in our medicine bag are plasters and Sudocrem
for grazed knees, but it’s good to have these other supplies to hand just in
case:</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Calpol <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Paracetamol<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Hydrocortizone
cream<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Sudocrem<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Plasters</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Cool bag</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">This
has been a more recent addition to our suitcase and now something we would
never forget to pack. Essential for picnics and imperative for keeping rose
cool on the beach!</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Travelling
light has so many advantages. You have less to carry on travel days. When you
arrive you only have the essentials so everything is easy to find. Packing to
go home is so quick and easy and likewise so is unpacking. I hope this helps
for your next sun holiday and that most of all you have a fun and enjoyable
trip!</span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[endif]--></span><!--EndFragment-->Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-44673362087982557642019-05-19T06:17:00.001-07:002020-05-09T01:03:00.034-07:00When the Feel of a Room Becomes More Important Than the LookI started a blog post titled 'Hygge home | Sitting room' quite a while ago. The date on the draft is the 11/05/17. Now, over two years later I'm ready to finish it.<br />
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As I scrolled through the draft folder on Maison Jen I saw 28 drafts written but unpublished between 2017 - 2018. In 2017 the content dropped by half, I went from writing four posts a month to only two, and by the end of 2018 I wrote just nine posts over the entire year, less than one a month. I used to get such joy and satisfaction from writing my blog; I loved sitting down, opening the laptop and writing about the things I love - from documenting a recipe to spray painting interior door handles, or remembering the many emotions of my boys first day of school. Finding that post 'Hygge home | Sitting room' and deciding to finish it will hopefully be the start of that love affair again. :-)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Hygge home | Sitting room</span></b></div>
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I should start by saying that the <i>look</i> of a room has always been hugely important to me. Flipping though interiors magazines, rambling though shops filled with sofas, picture frames and lamps, adorning my make believe 'big' house with images from Pinterest - this is my idea of Heaven. But as I read over the draft this post was going somewhere beyond that. I was making sure the cosiness of the room, and the importance of having a space that felt like a pause button for busy days, was addressed too.<br />
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Back in May 2017 I bought two armchairs which is why, I assume, I started the draft. I can't be certain, it's been a long time, but it would make sense that I was going to write about them, hoping to let anyone who was interested enough to read in on the plans to make the retweaked sitting room feel comfortable and cosy and 'Hygge'.<br />
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I think since that day I've been subconsciously designing a sitting room that would 'mind' me. That would wrap me up in the evenings after a long day of trying so hard (and probably - with kids involved - getting little done), that would hug me if I'd had a rough day and hand me a book, or turn on Netflix and start a fire - if sitting rooms could do that I know this one would.<br />
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This is a winter room. This is a room made for hibernating. I'm not sure how it's going to fare yet in summer, it might be hardly used, I'll have to wait and see. I have a feeling though it will always be a room for sanctuary and get-togethers no matter what time of year. I've only really finished it properly in the last few months. Buying cushion after cushion, trying throw after throw - I've bought and returned six but in the end I ended up with three. And what I've learnt (two armchairs, a pile of cushions, various accessories and six throws later) is that the feel of a room is always so much more important than the look. I feel this room is right, I feel it's the right room for our family, I feel that this will be a perfect place to set us up and wrap us up for the next few years - before I redo it all over again.<br />
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I'm an interiors enthusiast (even when I'm watching TV), the living rooms of 'Gilmore Girls' and 'It's Complicated' come to mind as places I probably subconsciously tried to replicate.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">It's Complicated - Image Source</td></tr>
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It's not exactly the same of course, and the room is certainly not as well styled as the movie (with its beautiful rustic French armoire), but I hope it has a similar charm and feel. </div>
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It's grey and cream and herringbone; with plump feathery cushions, merino wool and cashmere. The last thing it needs is a rustic wood floor but that's still to be ticked. Ski lodge style comes to mind but it obvioulsly - with our climate - will never be that so I'm fine with hygge. It's a great spot for a family movie night in front of the fire with it's big comfy cosy couch, plenty of flickering candles, surrounded by photos of family. Thinking back to a time before I started this post I'm sure I wanted a 'wow' room to impress but I'm glad, 19 months later, to be able to finish this post with a lot more understanding of what my retweaked sitting room <i>should</i> be.</div>
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(Photos to follow!)<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-74721441914540210422019-02-27T04:41:00.000-08:002019-03-12T00:19:43.501-07:00The Wonder Label Pitch | Pitching for the First TimeFirst of all it's mind-blowing that I'm even writing a post about this.<br />
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The words 'Drop the mic' are still ringing in my head.<br />
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Yesterday I did my first ever business pitch. You can probably tell from that sentence that this isn't going to be an informative 'Expert Tips' type article. I've never done a presentation, and I've never done a pitch. Everyone who knows me knows that I'm the person at the party who, as soon as I hear the words, 'Right, who's going to do the next party piece', tries to quietly look as transparent as possible.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>This, instead, is going to be an article of reference for myself. It's for people like me who shake at the thought of standing up and delivering a five or ten minute presentation. I never thought I could do that, and yesterday evening I did. I want to remember every single tip I was given - from friends, family, the internet and the class - so that if I ever have to do anything like that again I won't break out in a sweat.<br />
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Six weeks ago I was one of 17 starting the New Frontiers business programme. At the end of the six weeks I was expected, along with everyone else from the class, to deliver a five minute pitch to a panel about my business followed by a five minute Q & A. I was completely out of my comfort zone. I knew I had to do it and I knew I had to make it as painless as possible. So what follows are all of the helpful tips and lovely words of support and encouragement. It's me documenting my experience for future reference.<br />
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I've gotten so much advise over the last few weeks it's made me realise how often I must have been talking about this pitch to people! How else would so many people have the opportunity to tell me to 'try this' and 'try that'.<br />
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I'm also a firm believer in the Zen proverb 'When the Student is Ready, the Teacher will Appear'. There have been so many little nuggets of helpful information that have randomly come my way that I'm certain there was something in the universe at play here too. I don't think I'll ever feel comfortable speaking in front of a roomful of people, but for this particular instance 'the teacher' appeared, and definitely made things a little easier.<br />
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I got sent this lovely video from a friend in Italy at the beginning of February, one of the few people who I hadn't told about the pitch. It really made me remember to put things into perspective. The YouTube link he sent reminded me that The Pitch was just The Sand. This wasn't the 'big deal' thing I was making it out to be. It really helped to keep my priorities in order in the days leading up to it. You should watch this (if you haven't seen it already), it's really lovely: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqGRnlXplx0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqGRnlXplx0</a><br />
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Tim Ferriss said in his podcast to drink lots of coffee and then go for a run, get your heart racing to mimic that feeling of pure adreneline and nerves - the feeling you will almost certainly feel right before you deliver a presentation - then practice again. Now, for a fleeting second I thought about doing this, but just in case I gave myself a heart attack I reconsidered. Plus I'm not a runner so, for me, I really couldn't imagine a more troublesome way to practice, but for any runners this trick may help.<br />
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The lady in the bookshop where I bought the prompt cards told me to record myself saying the entire thing, then play it back and listen to it on headphones on a walk. "It will be like music, and you'll be able to recite it back like lyrics you've learned from a favourite song". What a lovely lady (from Book Haven, Knocklyon), and a really great piece of advice.<br />
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These were just some of the invaluable pieces of advice that randomly (or not so randomly) came my way in the weeks leading up to the pitch.<br />
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Over the past six weeks we were given advice in the class on - Presenting the Case. Two that really stood out for me were to keep the pitch simple, I knew it was going to be difficult to remember all of the material in the correct order so keeping it simple would definitely help. And also to practice, especially in front of people.<br />
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Once I had the content for the pitch written and photos chosen for the deck I timed it to 4.30 minutes, I didn't want to get flustered and rush it at the end so I cut it a little shorter. Then I practiced and practiced.<br />
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I took the advise I was given from the programme and pitched to as many people as I could. I did my very first ever pitch to my book club a week beforehand, and what amazing cheerleaders they were. Even if on the night the pitch didn't go well I knew I had them supporting me all the way, and that was such an uplifting thought. When they gave their feedback, 'Emphasise the pause' was a tip I tucked in my back pocket.<br />
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After another practice run to my brother-in-law I was told to really practice the first few lines, get them learned and rehearsed inside out. Once I was in, he said, and you know what you're going to say with confidence the rest will follow.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "georgia pro" , serif; font-size: 16px;">For some reason doing the pitch for my Dad was the most nerve-racking! Even though I know he's my best supporter I think it was because I knew he would know how hard I would find it. He gave me brilliant tips as I knew he would (he's so experienced at this). Slow down when you're talking about the important parts and really emphasise what's great, what's coming up in your business and what your company is all about.</span><br />
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And Mary from the class - make it funny, then it won't seem as terrifying!<br />
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Some really good, very specific tips came from my husband a few days before...<br />
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"What if I fall..?"<br />
<b>David</b>: Don't wear heels.<br />
Simple, easy, why didn't I think of that?<br />
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"What if I have a total blank..?"<br />
<b>David</b>: Write it out word for word on cards. Then if you can't remember it you can just read it out.<br />
Simple, easy, why didn't I think of that?<br />
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Why <i>didn't</i> I think of that? Because, really, when you're feeling completely overwhelmed you can't tell the wood from the trees. Sometimes you need someone else to clarify things so you can can let the 'simple, easy why didn't I think of that' rise to the surface. It turned out there really was a helpful answer to all my worries.<br />
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On the morning of the pitch I was sent the most beautiful bunch of flowers from my sister with a card that read - Best of luck with your presentation. I know you'll do great!<br />
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Lots of lovely texts of support came in during the day. One from my Dad: Best of luck Jen with your presentation this evening. I know you will be brilliant. And it's ok to be a bit nervous. Smile your way through, it's only five minutes :-) x<br />
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And one of the best tips, a text from my sister: Lay out a nice pair of pjs and comfy socks so you've something nice to come home to!<br />
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The time came for me to leave and what I had built up in my head wasn't so scary after all. Scary the week before - yes. Scary that day - yes. But once I got there and saw and spoke to the rest of the class I knew I would be ok. This was it, there was nothing more I could do. I had prepared and I hoped everything would go to plan. I hoped I wouldn't hit the ground in one big dramatic fall. Maybe that's the way you feel right before your go sky diving for the first time. Nerve-wracking going up in the plane and then a strange calm right before you jump out - or maybe it's the total opposite! That's something I never, ever plan to find out; Then again you never know...<br />
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I had two goals. I wanted to just get through it, and I wanted people to understand it. Because it was my first presentation I didn't set the bar too high.<br />
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I was the fifth to pitch and it seemed to very quickly come to my turn. Feeling nervous I made my way to the top of the room. There was a panel of four people and instead of a Dragon's Den type set-up I was relieved that it was more 'X Factor' style. Four supportive panel members sitting behind a desk. I really just wanted to do it now, and try to deliver it as well as possible. I made it to the very end of the pitch in exactly 5 minutes - to the second. It was over. Six weeks of worry and that was it. Similar to Christmas I suppose, all that build up for just one day.<br />
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It was time for the Q & A. I got lots of really helpful feedback from the panel. Someone took notes for me so I could remember exactly what was said. But there was one question that I'm still thinking about today with a big grin on my face.<br />
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One of the members of the panel asked: "Can I ask you to get me that red marker on the table?".<br />
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I walked over to get the thick red marker on the desk right beside the big screen with my last photo from the pitch still displayed.<br />
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"This one?" I asked, as I held it up.<br />
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"Yep, that's the one. Now, drop the mic - that was really, really good!"<br />
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After he said the words "Drop the mic" he may have said - "that was brilliant" or - "you nailed it". I'm not sure exactly. I couldn't remember much after I sat back down, but I do remember him saying something great. The mic drop, the signal of triumph. I had done it.<br />
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'Drop the mic' - what a lovely memory :-)<br />
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I'll never, ever forget the experience of doing my first pitch. Something I thought I would never be able to do.<br />
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Today I've a spring in my step. It's a beautiful sunny day, my pitch is over and thankfully I feel really happy with how it went.<br />
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I must still be on that elated high, because strangely there's a part of me this morning that's thinking, when can I do that all over again?!<br />
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'The fears you don't face become your limits' - Robin Sharma.<br />
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There's a difference between being brave and being fearless. Being brave isn't the absence of fear. Being brave is facing your fears and finding a way through. My way through was to be prepared, to practice to as many people as I could, and to use the business mnemonic from the programme, KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid!<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-50083329499028315802019-02-10T02:15:00.003-08:002019-03-02T08:30:25.140-08:00The Life-Changing Magic of Folding<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">There is something very satisfying and hugely restorative about decluttering and organising, but you get to a new level of gratification with organised drawers!</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">I’ve been a tidying, clutter-clearing champion for a long time but it was only after reading Marie Kondo’s book a few years ago ‘The Life Changing Magic of Tidying’ that I realised, although my families things are well organised, I wasn't storing clothing correctly. In fact I was doing it </span><i style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">completely</i><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;"> wrong. Folding flat or tiredly shoving clothes into drawers at the end of a busy day resulted in frequently reorganising to make closets and drawers neat again. All our clothing had been decluttered and paired back to items that only sparked joy, but a bad system of storing resulted in drawers being in the exact same cluttered state a few weeks later, albeit with less clothes.</span><br />
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">By following a simple storage technique for clothing, suggested in the book, I haven't needed to reorganise drawers and wardrobes since! Also, the correct storage of clothes actually expands the space so I can fit more in and see every item at a glance.</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">I’ve been vertically folding my families clothes for a few years now and to say it’s been life-changing is an understatement. Babies and toddlers grow at such a rapid pace, when I think back to the time before I stored clothes this way, and the amount of beautiful outfits that were rolled in a ball at the back of a drawer - that they had outgrown and missed out on wearing - I feel what a waste!</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">The vertical folding technique...</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7W6YV6ZHvI/XF_1YN_7CJI/AAAAAAAADBY/AN0TEsoIQ8ooQwakN4XHGv4ICQH_K-g0QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2019-02-10%2Bat%2B09.54.38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="964" height="512" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7W6YV6ZHvI/XF_1YN_7CJI/AAAAAAAADBY/AN0TEsoIQ8ooQwakN4XHGv4ICQH_K-g0QCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2019-02-10%2Bat%2B09.54.38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Why:</span></div>
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<ul style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc outside; margin: 0px 0px 30px 20px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0.4em;">It makes clothes compact for storage and expands precious storage space</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0.4em;">Every item becomes easily visible at a glance</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0.4em;">Drawers don’t need to be frequently reorganised</li>
</ul>
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<b style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">The clothes I hang:</b></div>
<ul style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc outside; margin: 0px 0px 30px 20px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0.4em;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">Any shirt or t-shirt with a collar</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0.4em;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">Coats</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0.4em;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">Dresses </span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0.4em;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">Suits</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">Everything else is folded in drawers. </span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">I’ve turned empty spaces in wardrobes into drawers, and shelves in wardrobes into ‘drawers’ by folding clothes neatly in boxes before putting them on a shelf in the closet. Using wardrobe space in this way frees up more space for storing folded items, and with only a few garments now hung on rails less space is actually needed for hanging.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--oykUwav_VQ/XF_2P3k7WSI/AAAAAAAADBg/oi8EfnKa9ccmHMptxhtttR3iwAgFRlS-ACLcBGAs/s1600/tedward-quinn-1310955-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--oykUwav_VQ/XF_2P3k7WSI/AAAAAAAADBg/oi8EfnKa9ccmHMptxhtttR3iwAgFRlS-ACLcBGAs/s640/tedward-quinn-1310955-unsplash.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Vertical folding method:</b></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">The goal of this storage system is to organise the contents so every item can be seen at a glance. Clothing folded tightly and stored upright becomes more compact, but that means more folds, this is how…</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 15px;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">The aim is to fold each piece of clothing into a simple smooth rectangle. First fold the lengthwise side of the garment towards to centre and tuck in the sleeves to make a rectangular shape. Next pick up one end of the rectangle and fold it towards the other end leaving a gap of about an inch before it meets the top. Then fold again in halves or in thirds. The number of folds should be adjusted so that the folded clothing when standing on edge fits the height of the drawer. And that’s it, a perfectly folded garment that you will be able to stand upright!</span></div>
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<b style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Does it take longer:</b></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 15px;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">Yes, it definitely takes a little longer to fold clothes correctly so they’re stored upright and easy to see as soon as you open a drawer. But the benefits far out-weight the time spent putting clothes away. <span style="box-sizing: border-box;">It's time-consuming at first, but once you organise everything this way, you’ll find that you actually save time. </span>It’s a good idea if your finding it cumbersome to pair it with an enjoyable task. I always sort clothes in the evening time, and always in the bedroom, the large area on a double bed is the best place for me to sort and fold. While I’m folding I pop on a podcast or light some candles and listen to music. It’s become the most enjoyable household chore and now something I look forward to doing!</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 15px;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;">This, for me, has been the most transformative aspect of the ‘Konmari’ method - the technique of gathering all of your belongings by category, only keeping those that spark joy and choosing a place for everything. Clothing is one of the categories seen and used every single day. Keeping them organised gets us closer to the inner calm and clear mind we strive for.</span></div>
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">And yep, I fold our socks :-)</span></div>
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Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-18284995058924345702018-08-12T13:32:00.005-07:002018-09-16T04:49:58.970-07:00And so the adventure begins...<div style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Over the past few months I've been working on a business idea that launched last week! It's something that started as a tiny idea over a year ago and with help and encouragement from friends and family it's finally become real.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5voMyV4IYO0/W3CZGnf0Q3I/AAAAAAAAC_0/J_eMTUeFSYkQuEiqtq9a0oQlb3jVeFw2QCLcBGAs/s1600/jennifer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5voMyV4IYO0/W3CZGnf0Q3I/AAAAAAAAC_0/J_eMTUeFSYkQuEiqtq9a0oQlb3jVeFw2QCLcBGAs/s640/jennifer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After years spent ironing labels onto uniforms and getting creative with permanent markers and tipp-ex I knew what I needed was a washable, waterproof sticker label. It took time and lots of fails, but finally I found a material that passed all the tests. Finally a label that would last. A long time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The website went live on Thursday and we got our very first order on Friday evening, I could never have predicted how excited I would feel when I heard the till sound on my phone and the alert that stated Wonder Label has a new order! What followed was a weekend of sales and confirmation of what I knew and believed to be an innovative, helpful product for parents. </span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm so excited for what lies ahead and getting this new great product in homes throughout Ireland. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our website is now live so if you or anyone you know is looking for a product like Wonder Label you can order them here - <a href="http://www.wonder-label.com/">www.wonder-label.com</a></span></div>
Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-83689584107060392142018-08-06T01:59:00.002-07:002020-04-19T23:55:40.224-07:00Belgian Waffles<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">These light crispy squares have already become a firm weekend favourite of ours. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccrsS12iruU/W2gN8XWiCMI/AAAAAAAAC_k/fy6uJpvzLyAW0-VZBGTRDw9DUn4hTRykACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2423-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1479" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccrsS12iruU/W2gN8XWiCMI/AAAAAAAAC_k/fy6uJpvzLyAW0-VZBGTRDw9DUn4hTRykACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2423-2.jpg" width="590" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The recipe is from the Babyccino blog which I love, and is also full of helpful tips and products for Mums and kids. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When we make them for lunch they're a delicious weekend treat, and as a dessert </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">the boys absolutely love them </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">topped with berries and syrup. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You'll need a waffle iron which you may think will end up becoming an extra piece of needless kitchen eqipment </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">but trust me, it won't. It's one of the the best things I've bought. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">All of us sitting around the table on a lazy weekend day eating warm, just cooked waffles, definitely one of my favourite things...</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4PAhmKGOtOs/W2gNb7SqhYI/AAAAAAAAC_U/AG9Rd_dT-CU0E_KbOqo5ugXmJEIDpW5fQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2430-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1485" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4PAhmKGOtOs/W2gNb7SqhYI/AAAAAAAAC_U/AG9Rd_dT-CU0E_KbOqo5ugXmJEIDpW5fQCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_2430-2.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span><br />
<br />
2 cups flour, sifted<br />
4 level teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1/4 cup of sugar<br />
2 eggs, room temperature<br />
1/2 cup of coconut oil, stirable consistency<br />
2 cups milk, warmed slightly<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
Waffle iron<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>How to make them:</b></span><br />
<br />
Sift the flour, baking powder and salt together into a large mixing bowl.<br />
<br />
Add the sugar and stir to combine.<br />
<br />
Separate the egg whites and beat until they form stiff peaks, I use my kmix mixer but you can use an electric hand whisk either or a hand whisk (although you'll be there all day).<br />
<br />
In another bowl mix the egg yolks, coconut oil, milk and vanilla extract. If everything is at the correct temperature it will combine, if it's not and starts to curdle heat gently in the microvave on a defrost setting for a minute or two and mix again. Add mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.<br />
<br />
Lastly gently fold in the egg whites, remember not to over mix.<br />
<br />
Heat your waffle iron and cook for 4-5 minutes depending on the setting.<br />
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For a savoury brunch serve with streaky bacon and maple syrup. For a sweet treat, strawberries and icing sugar. We love to top with lemon juice, caster sugar and blueberries too. Just pop your favourite topping on, and enjoy the best Belgian waffles you'll ever taste.<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-54187170452566373682018-08-05T04:09:00.004-07:002018-08-05T04:49:23.310-07:00New Term, New Year<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times";">We’re already well into
August which means September is just around the corner. For me, September
has always had a real ‘New Year’ feel.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times";"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Just as we were falling
into the summer rhythm of unstructured leisurely days it's now time to get
everyone organised again - back to routine and 'Back to School'</span><span style="font-family: "times"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times";">I mostly love this time of
year. As the new term approaches and families start to get organised and set
goals there’s a real 'fresh start' feeling in the air; a clean slate and a chance
to begin again. That’s exactly like ‘New Year’ for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I spent most of the last
two days getting organised for the new term and thankfully we’re almost there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times";">Can you believe there’s only
a few weeks left before back to school time?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times";">Do the words ‘back to school’
get you excited or apprehensive?</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’m looking forward to all the joys and
new beginnings September brings…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">It's definitely an exciting time for me :-)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jen x<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-38498586429774611552018-06-09T07:16:00.001-07:002019-01-07T02:08:22.003-08:00Chickpea Curry I've just discovered this delicious, healthy dish, and as soon as I tasted it I knew I had to include the recipe on the blog.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>It's such a hearty, tasty meal. The recipe can be doubled or trebled to feed a crowd which is exactly what I did when we had dinner for 10 in our house a couple of weeks ago.<br />
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The original recipe is from The Happy Pear's YouTube channel where they manage to make the dish in five minutes flat! Their recipe makes plenty for 3-4 with leftovers, and it can also be easily packed up for a working mid-week lunch. I've adapted it slightly so if you follow the recipe here it takes a little bit longer - sorry about that! But you can find the really quick YouTube version <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aP6eXpwIths" target="_blank">here</a>. I also didn't use chilis which I love but I wanted it to appeal to as many people as possible when serving it to a group. And as I know people can have a love/hate relationship with coriander I served it on the side to be spinkeld on as people wished.<br />
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Here it is...<br />
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I hope you love it as much as we do!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span><br />
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3 tbsp olive oil<br />
1 garlic clove, finely chopped<br />
1 tin of plum tomatoes<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 small red onion, finely chopped<br />
1/2 thumb sized piece of ginger, finely chopped<br />
1 tbsp curry powder<br />
1 tsp cumin<br />
1 tsp ground coriander<br />
1 tsp smoked paprica<br />
1 400g can of coconut milk<br />
1 400g can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed<br />
Juice of half a lime<br />
Salt and pepper<br />
Bunch of fresh coriander, chopped<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>How to make it:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a small pot heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over a medium heat and fry the garlic for a minute or two until it turns a golden colour. Add the tin of plum tomatoes and simmer gently for about 20 mins until the tomatoes soften. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a separate pan fry the onion in a tablespoon of olive oil for a couple of minutes until beginning to colour. Add the ginger and fry for a minute before adding the spices. Mix to coat the onion and ginger and cook for 30 seconds to just warm the spices. Add the simmering tomato sauce, coconut milk, chickpeas, lime juice and salt and pepper to taste. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you're like me and LOVE coriander sprinkle a generous handful on top. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Serve with rice or cous cous and sliced avacado. </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> </span><br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-52659406344676147782018-05-31T10:04:00.003-07:002018-07-25T09:37:32.096-07:00House Rules for Different PersonalitiesNot blogging as much as I used to has made me realise how much I've missed it. It's my creative outlet in a world where noise, chaos and jumping on furniture is part and parcel of everyday life. But I've also realised something else. What started out as a blog about cooking and interior design, two of my favourite hobbies, has unexpectedly changed over the years and I now find myself writing more and more about family life.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yu8hrPpIZ6k/WxOp9DvONfI/AAAAAAAAC-U/B_mLwcn5W_8l5eU0PswTqSr67FRIVnnYwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1935-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yu8hrPpIZ6k/WxOp9DvONfI/AAAAAAAAC-U/B_mLwcn5W_8l5eU0PswTqSr67FRIVnnYwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1935-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a>I love posting recipes and writing about any interior project that involves paint or a drill! But as soon as I sat down to write this post I discovered another reason why I love my blog is because it gives me a chance to stop, slow down, and really think about the things that are important to us as a family.<br />
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Right now I'm doing something that I hope will improve our everyday and curb some of the complaining particularly from me! It's something I never thought to do before, I'm writing out our house rules. Maybe this sounds a bit <i>extreme,</i> writing out rules isn't very zen, and <i>calm and tranquil </i>are definitely the feelings I hope to achieve in our home one day! Yet from the time the boys were very young each one of these rules has been told (ok, sometimes loudly told!) time and time again and paradoxically they're ultimately for the purpose of everyone living in harmony. Everyone knows them, but I never thought sit down and write them out before.<br />
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Here are some of our rules...<br />
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<ul>
<li>Take your shoes off at the door.</li>
<li>Empty your schoolbag when you come home from school.</li>
<li>Wash your hands
before meals.</li>
<li>Sit at the table
until everyone is finished.</li>
<li>Don't stand up from the table with food in your mouth.</li>
<li>No toys at the
table.</li>
<li>No food in any
other rooms of the house apart from the kitchen.</li>
<li>Clear your plate to
the counter when you’re finished eating.</li>
<li>No standing or jumping on the furniture.</li>
<li>No throwing in the house. Ball games only allowed in
the landing where nothing can be knocked over – or even better OUTSIDE! </li>
<li>Tidy toys away when you’re finished playing.</li>
<li>No teasing. If you
can’t say something nice don’t say anything. </li>
<li>Be kind to each
other. Use a kind voice when speaking to other people in our family.</li>
<li>Be polite. Remember
your good manners. Always say hello and goodbye to people who come to our home.
Always say please and thank you.</li>
<li>No fighting games first thing in the morning.</li>
<li>Remember all the rules of our home!</li>
</ul>
Another reason why I'm writing about this is because I often wonder why some of our rules are followed by the kids but others require huge amounts of reminding. Or maybe more to the point, why a certain rule is second nature to one but not to someone else.<br />
<br />
I'm reading a book at the moment called 'The Four Tendencies' by best-selling non-fiction author Gretchen Ruben. It's not a parenting book and it's not a book about following rules, it's a book about personality types. In it she says 'In just about all situations framing expectations to suit the four tendencies can bring more co-operation.' 'In most cases when we try to influence others, we use the stratagies that would work on us. The four tendencies can help us, instead, to give other people what <i>they</i> need - not what <i>we</i> would need. And then we can work together more harmoniously.'<br />
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So from The Four Tendencies here are the personality types..<br />
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<ol>
<li><b>Obliger</b> - "You can count on me, and I'm counting on you to count on me" Meets outer expectations, resists inner expectations.</li>
<li><b>Questioner</b> - "I'll comply-if you convince me why" Resists outer expectations, meets inner expectations.</li>
<li><b>Upholder</b> - "Discipline is my freedom" Meets outer and inner expectations.</li>
<li><b>Rebel</b> - "You can't make me, and neither can I" Resists outer expectations, resists inner expectations.</li>
</ol>
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Definitely without a doubt we have two questioners, I'm including my husband here! And possibly, like me, two obligers, ..one <i>could</i> be an upholder though. As Gretchin Rubin says it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact tendency of children.<br />
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<b>Questioners</b> want justifications.<br />
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<b>Obligers</b> need accountability.<br />
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And in case we do have an upholder... <b>Upholders</b> want to know what should be done.<br />
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So in the case of our questioner, a way to phrase the '<i>Tidy toys away</i>' rule.. would be instead of saying "Put those blocks away!" which is a very direct command expecting him to meet my expectations, "Those blocks need to go on the shelf so they'll be easy to find when you want to play with them next time". This has been changed to a clear command with the reason why the blocks need to go back on the self, perfect for a questioner!<br />
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So while I'm in the process of writing out our 'House Rules' they're about to be rethought, and more importantly reframed (especially on delivery!), so every personality-type in the family will co-operareate!<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-42795722449832334782018-05-31T04:40:00.000-07:002018-05-31T07:44:56.570-07:00Creamy Spinach Dip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the best crowd pleaser dip...</div>
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<a name='more'></a>Whenever I make it I always get asked for the recipe, which in my mind signals an absolute hit.<br />
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The original recipe is from my Aunt in New Jersey so I feel like it has a bit of an American vibe. You can serve it at any occasion though, it tastes delicious and for some reason seems to never run out, you can even eat the serving bowl. Proper 'loaves and fishes' style dip!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">600g frozen spinach, thawed and drained really well</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">200ml of light mayonnaise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">400ml of sour cream</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I pack of Knorr cream of vegetable soup</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I small red onion, finely chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I loaf of bread</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>How to make it:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a medium bowl mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, soup mix and chopped onion, set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When the spinach has thawed drain as much of the water out as possible. The easiest way to do this is to pick up small handfuls of spinach and wring the water out over a bowl or sink until almost all of the water has been squeezed out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once the spinach is well drained transfer to a blender and add the rest of the ingredients. Blend together until the spinach is well chopped and the other ingredients are combined. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cover and chill for at least two hours in the fridge to blend flavours.</span><br />
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Next prepare the loaf of bread for serving.<br />
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Start by slicing the top of the bread with a sharp bread knife.</div>
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Then slice around the inside as close to the crust as possible and scoop out the inside with your hand. </div>
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Once the dip has been chilled transfer to the bread bowl and serve with the top and middle cubed and arranged on the plate for dipping.</div>
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Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-77165051711096818482018-04-29T10:13:00.002-07:002018-05-31T02:30:01.819-07:00Easter at Sea LodgeSundays all over the world are particularly special. Time to relax, time with loved ones, time to slow down. Last Sunday, Easter Sunday, we spent the day in Wexford which as always ticked all of those boxes.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Dad had planned an Easter egg hunt in the garden and the boys were beyond excited. They absolutely adore Sea Lodge, so throw in an Easter egg hunt in a garden made for adventure and you've got a match made in heaven. Unfortunately the drive down is a totally different story. Squabbling and whining usually takes up the entire trip, but once we turn off from the road between Kilmuckridge and Blackwater and they realise we're on the county lane that leads to the house a peace descends as they turn their attention from each other to all the fascinating things around.<br />
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As usual there was a sigh of relief from the two of us as soon as the car was parked and they scampered off.<br />
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And this year they got stuck in straight away to uncover the eggs.<br />
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This time last year we were outside in the sunshine, them tucking into their finds...<br />
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...but an unpredictable April day meant we were inside by the fire.<br />
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In every way the day felt very different but the boys distracted us. Those live-wires from the car journey down kept us in the present. Callum & Alex asked about Gigi as soon as we pulled up to the house and that made me feel really sad, but after that for me, and I think for everyone, it was a happy day with no air of solemnity. I feel that's exactly how Gigi would have wanted it to be.<br />
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Once inside it took a while to make a dent in their stash of eggs but they did a good job.<br />
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And when they decided they'd had enough it was time for the 'big boys' to watch the rugby in the pub while the Easter lamb slow roasted in the oven.</div>
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Max as always delivered an amazing feast.<br />
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Gogi made sure the boys had a brilliant day, there was even a sac of Easter eggs hanging from a tree!<br />
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Thank you Dad for making it a fun-filled happy day.<br />
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A poem my sister sent me...<br />
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I send you butterfly kisses<br />
You don't always know I'm there<br />
But it's me peaking 'round the corner<br />
Or touching a strand of your hair.<br />
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I see you on days you're crying<br />
or wishing we could talk once in a while<br />
Even though I'm now in heaven<br />
I still want to see you smile.<br />
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I visit you at night when you are sleeping<br />
I come quietly to your dreams<br />
And whisper words ever so softly<br />
To say death is not what it seems.<br />
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I see you sometimes at the table<br />
When you don't know that I am there<br />
as you gaze over at my picture<br />
I hope you know how much I care.<br />
<br />
I'm sending a hug from heaven<br />
I wish you could feel it today<br />
The love that we share is forever<br />
Time and space can't take it away.<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-52982352954522377392018-04-06T09:54:00.000-07:002018-07-14T12:10:04.363-07:00Chocolate & Salted Caramel Shortbread | Easter bakingWith extra time over the Easter holidays and lots of chocolate to use up from the lorry load of eggs, we finally got around to making these...<br />
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...again.<br />
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Ross had wanted to make Millionaire Squares for ages, one of his favourite things to order as a sweet treat, but our first attempt over a mid-term break was a baking fail. I tried to cut corners by using ready-made caramel from a tin and the end result was a giant mess. It did taste good though!<br />
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This recipe is 'take two', and with the help of Rachel Allen and Donal Skehan I finally got it right.<br />
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There are three stages...<br />
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<b>1. First the shortbread base</b> - a recipe from 'Rachel's Favourite Food for Friends' by Rachel Allen. I make these biscuits all the time and usually double the recipe as they don't last very long! They really do taste like proper Scottish shortbread.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Scottish Shortbread</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What you'll need:</span></b><br />
<ul>
<li>140g plain flour</li>
<li>25g rice flour</li>
<li>50g caster sugar</li>
<li>100g butter, room temperature</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How to make it:</span></b><br />
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Preheat the oven to 140<span style="font-family: "times";">°</span>C<br />
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In a bowl mix the flours and rub in the soft butter, once it starts to form a crumbly dough add the sugar and kneed until combined.<br />
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Roll the dough into a 22cm x 22cm greased baking tin and bake for 50 minutes.<br />
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<b>2. Next the salted caramel</b> - from Donal Skehan's website <a href="http://www.donalskehan.com/">www.donalskehan.com</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Salted caramel</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What you'll need:</span></b><br />
<ul>
<li>200g caster sugar</li>
<li>1/2 tsp sea salt</li>
<li>4 tbsp golden syrup</li>
<li>200g butter</li>
<li>400g condensed milk</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How to make it:</span></b><br />
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Place all the ingredients in a saucepan. Mix over a medium heat until all the ingredients have melted together, then turn up the heat and bring to a boil, lower the temperature and simmer for 10 - 15 minutes until the caramel turns from a custardy yellow colour to a golden brown. The caramel gets molten hot so this is an adult only job. A silicone spatula is good to use here as it gets right into the edges of the pot, and don't forget to stir often so it doesn't burn!<br />
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Pour the mixture over the cooked shortbread and allow to cool completely. This can take a couple of hours so patient kids needed. Because the words <i>patient</i> and <i>kids</i> don't tend to go in the same sentence I realised that although Ross LOVES these and really wanted to bake them it wasn't an ideal school holiday recipe for under 6's. Oh well, live and learn!<br />
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<b>3. And the final stage, the chocolate</b> - Our leftover Easter eggs.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Chocolate topping</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span><br />
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200g milk chocolate<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>How to make it:</b></span><br />
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A foolproof, quick, super easy way to melt chocolate. Break up the chocolate and place in a microwave-proof bowl. Heat on full power for 30 seconds. <span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Take out and mix. The chocolate will still be solid. Put back in the microwave for one minute, mixing again halfway through at 30 seconds. If there are still some small pieces of chocolate chunks in the bowl let the melted chocolate sit for a minute or two and mix again. If you need to, pop back in the microwave for a further 20 seconds.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Pour on top of the cooled caramel and spread with a palate </span>knife. Pop in the fridge until the chocolate is set then slice into squares.</span><br />
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Although this wasn't an ideal kiddie baking day recipe by the time we tucked in we all agreed they were worth all that waiting! The salted caramel together with the buttery shortbread, topped with chocolate is such a decadent treat!</div>
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If you want to be more virtuous when using leftover chocolate eggs and incorporate fruit, here's our '<a href="http://www.maisonjen.com/2015/04/chocolate-apple-slices.html" target="_blank">Chocolate Apple Slices</a>' recipe from a few years ago.<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-89254271108837936592018-03-27T05:29:00.001-07:002018-06-02T03:51:45.061-07:00Homemade Beef BurgersThese burgers rival any Bunsen or Wow Burger - really!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>This recipe is from Annabel Karmel - the baby food guru - so for a burger recipe it comes from a slightly unusual source. But I've learnt over the years that sometimes the most delicious recipes appear in extraordinary places.<br />
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I've been making these since Ross was a toddler and have never ever found a tastier burger recipe. Finally, after at least ten years of making and eating these I feel I've perfected the toppings and the bun. If you follow exactly, to the last drop of ketchup, you will be rewarded with one of the best burgers you will ever eat.<br />
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<b style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">What you'll need:</b><br />
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450g lean minced beef<br />
1 onion, peeled and finely chopped<br />
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)<br />
1 'Knorr stock pot' chicken stock cube dissolved in 2 tbsp of water<br />
1 apple, peeled and grated<br />
1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce<br />
a pinch of brown sugar<br />
Salt and black pepper<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>How to make them:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mix the chopped onion, chopped parsley, grated apple, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, stock cube mixed with water, and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add the mince and mix until all ingredients are combined. Place in the fridge and chill for at least two hours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Using your hands make six burgers from the mixture and chill for a further 10 mins </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">so they hold their shape when cooking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a large pan heat two tablespoons of olive oil over a medium/high heat. Don't overcrowd the pan, fry 3 or 4 burgers at a time for 5 - 10 minutes until well browned, then turn over. Cook for a further 5 minutes until cooked through. </span><br />
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Next the brioche buns.. Toast 'lightly' (very important!) under the grill for a couple of minutes - don't overcook, and keep a good eye on them so they <i>do not</i> burn! Then spread one side with Hellmann's mayonnaise, on top of this squirt Heinz tomato ketchup and French's classic yellow mustard.<br />
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Top the burger with sliced gherkins and that's it. Don't add anything else; no cheese, no lettuce, no tomatoes, appreciate the simplicity of the most epic burger you will ever eat. Obviously after you've eaten it in its most glorious state you can add what you like, and we do, but more often we just eat them like this and as much as I like great ingredients and endless variety I think in this case the best burger is as simple as this...<br />
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<b>And for the cheeseburger topping:</b><br />
Mature white cheddar (melt on the cooked burger in the pan), rocket, tomato and sweet onion relish.<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-82241657578678138752017-12-31T13:22:00.003-08:002018-03-19T02:02:25.886-07:00Far Breton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a simple, delicious recipe from one of my favourite food bloggers, Mimi Thorisson. In this traditional French dessert prunes are added to a custardy base. There are so many delicious elements to this cake, from the silky smooth texture in the centre to the more flan like top and edge, with hefty rum-soaked prunes studded throughout. I never realised just <i>how</i> much I liked prunes until I made this. </div>
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What I like even more.. <i>rum</i> soaked prunes! Here's the recipe.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li>300g pitted prunes</li>
<li>120ml dark rum</li>
<li>760ml milk</li>
<li>130g caster sugar</li>
<li>1 vanilla pod, split lengthways, seeds scraped </li>
<li>4 large eggs</li>
<li>Pinch of fine sea salt</li>
<li>225g plain flour, sifted</li>
<li>1 tsp salted butter, plus more for the dish</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>How to make it:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Preheat the oven to 200</span><span style="font-family: "times";">°</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">C and grease a 7 x 11 inch baking dish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a small bowl combine the prunes and the rum. Leave to soak for at least two hours.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a saucepan bring the milk, sugar, and vanilla pod and seeds to a simmer over a medium heat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Meanwhile in a large bowl beat the eggs and salt together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Discard the vanilla pod and slowly pour the warm milk into the eggs, whisking constantly. Pour in the reserved rum and continue to whisk. Gradually whisk in the flour.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pour half the batter into the prepared dish. Scatter the prunes evenly in the dish and then pour in the remaining batter.</span></div>
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Transfer to the oven and bake for 30 minutes.<br />
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Remove from the oven and gently spread the butter on top. Reduce the oven temperature to 180<span style="font-family: "times";">°</span>C and pop back in until it is set in the centre, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool slightly and remove gently from casserole dish. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.<br />
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Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a glass of Baileys - if you've any left after Christmas! A proper boozy treat.Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-5826586002584781102017-12-17T05:19:00.001-08:002018-03-19T07:11:52.825-07:00ImaginationsThe sound of war. Grenades, shrieking, gunfire. Pew, pew, pew. Pew, pew. Noise and chaos, thumping sounds, shouting. Arms and legs flying in every direction.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdBvtx60rAA/Wq_Eu9AlIII/AAAAAAAAC3s/UeYEDzK2-l4JvVV7zXrBFVKbRcR0eUdcQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdBvtx60rAA/Wq_Eu9AlIII/AAAAAAAAC3s/UeYEDzK2-l4JvVV7zXrBFVKbRcR0eUdcQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1100.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's my house this Sunday morning in December. All of the boys in full-on combat mode. I can already feel a headache starting and I want more than anything to tell them to stop. My plan of starting the day off as calmly as possible goes out the window. I naively thought that I would be the Mum whose boys would never play with guns, little did I realise that anything can become a gun. On this day it's their small fingers, my coasters and cushions playing the roll of who knows what. Extra armour maybe...<br />
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I stand in the kitchen sipping the coffee I just made. I want to say stop but I don't. I don't get it and I definitely don't like it but I let them continue. They're using their imaginations, it's only a game, and they're having fun. Because "Imagination is more important than knowledge". If Einstein thought that then my headache will just have to be part of my Sunday morning. The play continues. More of our home gets collected up as props. I take a deep breath and remind myself how blessed I am to have three happy, energetic, imaginative boys. Einstein, I hope when you said that you meant this carry on too!<br />
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-82803874532250564532017-11-30T08:12:00.002-08:002018-02-18T02:56:28.269-08:00Waiting for Snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's at this time of year I always remember the big snow of 2010. Not 1983 like some, I was just too small to recall the details, but the last big snow when my eldest was only four and I delighted in the fact that he could toboggan down the hill beside our house on a baking tray. It snuck up on me; I wasn't expecting such a big pile on the first day it fell, maybe it was because I didn't have an app back then to check the weather as often as I liked, maybe some people had an inkling it was on the way, maybe it was just one of those things that happen out of the blue for a reason that nobody knows. One minute I was preparing dinner and the next the snow came... Falling slowly at the start then picking up speed, gently covering everything outside with big, thick snowflakes until everything turned white. I don't remember much about yesterday but I do remember that evening, happy memories are as clear as day. Snow makes me happy :-)</div>
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As soon as the temperature starts to drop and I'm rooting out hats and gloves and scarves I secretly hope that the same will happen again. Hygge comes to the forefront of my mind. I want to curl up beside log fires while a blanket of snow quietly covers the ground, light every candle, sip on warming drinks and spend quality time with family indoors after the working day is done. Some people are summer people but I've decided I'm definitely a winter one.<br />
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Outside it feels cold enough for snow, but because there's no sign of any yet here's some photos from the web the get me in the hygge mood...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a name='more'></a>Image source here</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source here</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source here</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source here</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source here</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source here</td></tr>
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<br />Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-56634996208095227242017-10-28T14:35:00.001-07:002018-03-14T11:06:02.649-07:00Sleep | The Third Pillar of HealthA good night's sleep, what we all want every night.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a name='more'></a>Image <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BbVBB8VgsGT/?taken-by=gal_gadot" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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"I'd like to go to bed and have a really bad sleep", said nobody, <i>ever</i>!<br />
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Over the years I've become more and more attuned to how important sleep is and I'm now fascinated by the subject. Whenever I hear something on the radio on the topic, read an article or see something on TV I store the information and as a result have become my very own personal sleep expert! I can see a huge difference in how I feel - and even look - when I get a good night's sleep. Medical experts have also noted its importance, along with healthy eating and regular exercise sleep has become the third pillar of health.<br />
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Owing to my sleep obsession I've realised that if I want to be cheerful, energetic, mentally sharp and have more patience especially for my children, I <i>have</i> to get a good night's sleep. When I get the right amount of good quality sleep it restores me, it's healing and puts me in the best possible mindset to have a calm, fulfilling day; and that's what I want every day.<br />
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Here are some of the tips I've learnt on the topic of sleep over the years and now apply every day...<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><u>SLEEP PREP</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I mistakingly thought that getting a good sleep started the moment you got into bed. Not the case... you can and should gently prepere for sleep throughout the day.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: -webkit-standard;"><br /></span></span></span>NAPS</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: -webkit-standard;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It may sound obvious but don't nap before bedtime. That sleep on the couch in front of the TV at 9.30pm is NOT going to help you get the best possible night-time sleep. If you do find naps beneficial take a short nap before 2.30pm and only if it's not interfering with your night-time sleep. I never napped during the day until I was pregnant and had young babies and back then I always stuck to power naps but that's definitely a sleep topic for another day..</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">EXERCISE</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">One of the pillars of health and so beneficial to our well-being, however don't exercise close to bedtime. A rule of thumb is no more than 2-3 hours before. In my case a brisk walk after dinner is perfect as it leaves enough time between exercising and sleep.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">ALCOHOL</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Alcohol does NOT help you sleep and for that reason I do all my drinking during the day - Ha! Not really, but I never drink before bed and always limit my alcohol intake. It's so beneficial to our health if we don't over do it in the 'drink' department. Alcohol can send us off easily into the land of nod but really interfers with the quality of our sleep.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">CAFFEINE</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I love coffee but it's a well known fact that caffeine is directly related to insomnia so here's how I get around that. I have two strong cups of coffee in the morning but by 10am</span> that's it, my coffee is over for the day. I have a cup of green tea or matcha at 3pm when Ross gets home from school. <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After that, no caffeine at all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">BEDTIME DRINKS</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some people have a bath before bedtime but I just don't have time, so an easy way for me to relax before bed is to make myself a hot steaming cup of herbal tea - rooibos or camomile work great, I also like Yogi bedtime tea and have on occasion made Tim Ferris's unbeatable bedtime drink which I wrote about <a href="http://www.maisonjen.com/2017/01/bedtime-drink-cider-vinegar-honey.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">WINDING DOWN</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Winding down time works great for kids but it's something adults can benefit from too. Preparing for bed an hour or so before is a great way to get a good night's sleep. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i>Screens</i></b> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Screens before bed interfere with the quality of our sleep. About an hour before bed I to try to turn off all screens and read a book instead.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i>Low lighting</i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We have three lamps in our bedroom which I switch off apart from one for reading that way I'm gently winding down with low lighting. Also harsh bathroom lights are a no-no, brush teeth and take off make-up earlier in the night so you can benefit from the soothing low lights before bedtime. Lighting lavendar candles in the bedroom (blown out before sleep of course) helps me to unwind too.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><b>Preparing for the following day</b></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When your head has too many tabs open write out any must-do tasks for the following day. You'll sleep better knowing everything is under control and nothing has slipped through the cracks. Also preparing for the following morning like laying out your clothes can help keep your mind free of any unnecessary thoughts during sleep. I do all of this a good hour before bed so my mind has time to relax and I'm not thinking about to-do lists right before bed.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><u><br /></u></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><u>THE BEDROOM</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Like the rest of my home I follow Feng Shui principles when it comes to my bedroom. Again it may sound obvious but make sure the bedroom is dark and quiet; blackout blinds and keeping windows closed can help with this. Having a calm uncluttered room is key, and never store anything under the bed! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: -webkit-standard;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><u>INTERRUPTED SLEEP</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>"When I'm worried and cannot sleep I count my blessings instead of sheep" - Bing Crosby</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There's nothing worse than preparing perfectly for sleep only to wake up tossing and turing in the middle of the night. </span>I rarely have trouble falling asleep, which I put down to waking early, a habitual 'winding down' routine and a busy daytime schedule. What does interrupt sleep for me is the night-time waking and trying to solve the problems of the world and my life at 3am. <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is the time when I worry about as many random things as I can think of and regularly obsess about how much nutritional value was in the food the boys ate during the day - really! Also when my boys were babies and woke up during the night I often found it difficult to get back to sleep myself. When this happened I did two things...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i>Mindful meditation</i></b></span><br />
If I wake in the middle of the night I notice that along with my mind whirring, my body is tense. Mindful meditation really works for me as it does two things, it relaxes my body and calms my mind. It helps me to drift off into a lovely natural, peaceful sleep. I start with long deep breaths and scan my body relaxing each part from my feet up. I pay particular attention to my jaw, eyes and shoulders as I hold a lot of tension here. Once my body starts to relax my mind begins to follow suit and before long I'm usually back asleep!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i>Pretend I'm going to fall through the bed</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It relaxes your body and really works!</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Having said all of that <i>the</i> best sleep tip is to have a regular sleep routine with no wild differences by going to bed and waking up at around the same time everyday, and getting a minimum of 8 hours sleep to function at your optimum.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When you get a good night's sleep you do a great day's work. Onwards and upwards!</span><br />
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<b>Ode to Summer</b></div>
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I'm not great with endings. Thankfully David is the opposite. Change, in his opinion, usually signals growth and new beginnings. It's good having someone in the house who thinks like that.<br />
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When Callum finished Montessori in June I was feeling lots of emotions but mostly sad; something that had played such a big part in his life over the past three years was coming to an end. I hoped the next chapter for him would be a positive one. Starting primary school was a major milestone. Would he like it? Would he be happy? Would he make friends? Would he like everyone? Would everyone like him??<br />
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"I am an old man and have known a great many troubles but most of them never happened" - Mark Twain<br />
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Today, on the last day of summer, Callum started school. And as is often the case my worrying was pointless. This morning while I was helping him put on his uniform it didn't seem as monumental as I'd imagined. When we left the house it 'almost' felt like any other day. When we settled him into the classroom everyone was relaxed. There were no tears thankfully - from anyone! It was a big day but it couldn't have gone more smoothly. Note to self: Stop worrying! The last day of summer and the first day of something great.<br />
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<b>Star Jumps</b></div>
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A week on and we're still sending off a happy excited boy. Just before Callum started school I remembered Tony Robbins bouncing on a trampoline before a speaking event, and Gretchen Rubin mentioning on her podcast that doing 10 jumping jacks (star jumps) before embarking on something new, or doing something that may be out of your comfort zone, is really helpful. It calms but also energises you. I stuck that bit of advise in my back pocket for Callum's first day. We all did star jumps that morning, me included. But a funny twist that I could never have predicted on the first day of 'big' school was that instead of calming Callum (5) I would be soothing my youngest (4) who was distraught he wouldn't be starting school in a pristine new uniform. Every day this week 10 star jumps before Montessori has calmed a disappointed four year old who has decided he is ready for change.Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2454515031240981631.post-54618759057491540032017-08-27T02:15:00.003-07:002018-02-18T02:57:16.429-08:00White Chocolate & Peanut Blondies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Usually blondies have a sweet vanilla flavour. For us though, we prefer ours with a peanuty crunch and white chocolate chunks. </div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here's the recipe for these deliciously dense, sweet treats... </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What you'll need:</span></b><br />
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<ul>
<li>100g butter, softened</li>
<li>150g chunky peanut butter</li>
<li>175g soft light brown sugar</li>
<li>1 egg, whisked</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>125g plain flour, sieved</li>
<li>1 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>75g white chocolate, chopped into small chunks</li>
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<li>8 inch square cake tin lined with grease proof paper</li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How to make them:</span></b><br />
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Preheat the oven to 170<span style="font-family: "times";">°</span>C. Butter the inside of the cake tin and line with greaseproof paper.<br />
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In a large bowl mix the butter and peanut butter together. Add the sugar, egg and vanilla extract and mix well until all ingredients are combined.<br />
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In a separate bowl sift the flour and baking powder together. Add the sifted flour to the mixture and mix together to form a dough. Finally gently mix in the white chocolate chunks and place the mixture in the prepared cake tin.<br />
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Bake for 25 - 30 minutes until golden brown on top and a skewer placed in the centre comes out clean.<br />
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Allow to cool and remove to a chopping board before slicing into squares.<br />
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Serve as a moorish treat with a cup of tea or coffee, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a dessert.Maison Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11042898840873275917noreply@blogger.com7