i’ve been tagged! with 10 questions it is “de rigueur” that I respond… Describe yourself in seven words: loving, gentle, free spirit, joyful, creative, introspective, and grateful
Monthly Archives: January 2012
i ♥ anything vintage i’ve always wanted to make my own Organic Yogurt… i’ve also wanted to experiment with making a Vintage Film so i thought, why not just try…
AWESOME!!!!! Loved everything about it, the vintage look, the song, you did a great job!
Hollywood next?
Cute video! What program did you use to put it together? I work in design and video production so it is always interesting to see what people are using.
Love the yogurt recipe, I’ll have to try it out soon. I just love yogurt and I recently discovered Icelandic Skyr yogurt…wow, its amazing.
The previous commenter (Holly) just stole my line. Wait. She went first. I’m stealing HER line…Loved everything about it! Absolutely everything! Absolute love! And your photography was beautiful, Smidge. This whole post just sang in perfect harmony. Encore!
(ps….I haven’t pulled out my yogurt maker for so long…but now I won’t rest til I do. You’ve inspired.)
The previous commenter (Holly) stole my line! Wait…she went first…I’m stealing HER line…loved everything about it! Absolutely everything. Absolute love. And your photography was beautiful, Smidge! The whole post sang in perfect harmony. Encore!
(ps – haven’t pulled my yogurt maker from its cupboard for so long…now I won’t rest til I do. You inspired.)
oops…Sally, not Holly.
Can’t play vids, sorry, not fast enough out here but Loved your shots and Love your yoghurt, I make it often too and there is nothing like it .. so good! c
Hahaha, too funny! I just love playing around with stuff, food, cameras, it was fun to do!
Just my iMovie on my mac.. I use it to make my photo or video “movies” (using the term loosely). It’s easy, but I’d like to figure out how to insert lettering right on top of the video clip (instead of as a separate page). Would you happen to know how to do this?
I don’t know if we have Icelandic Skyr, but I’ll be searching for it!
Spree, you always make my day!! I had lots of fun doing this. Def should pull out your yogurt maker.. I was surprised at how much the finished product tasted exactly like the yogurt starter I had used…
Have a great day!!
xo Smidge
No prob… but I don’t think I could ever live somewhere without a good internet connection… you poor thing!! No Youtube??
ps the daughter went to Sunshine yesterday, but she didn’t see your boy.. next time!!
xo Barb
This is a wonderful recipe, i will try it
This was so beautiful… I make my own yogurth as you and in the same way… How I loved your video… And it is incredible to find these words with yogurt, vintage and organic!!!! You are amazing. But sure, how much your original yogurt being good, your homemade wll be so good too… In these days I buy buffalo yogurt for making my own yogurt… It is beeing so nice.. Thank you dear Barbara, your photographs are so beautiful too, it was really so enjoyable. With my love, nia
Nice footage!
Your photos are always so pretty. We need to make this one of these days, still trying to get a certain chef of the house to do homemade ricotta too.
That is one unbelievably rich post! Gorgeous photos of beautiful things, a marvelous recipe for a great foundational food, and WOW! What a wonderful video! I am beyond impressed. I would only call that an Amateur video in the deepest, ***loveliest*** sense of that word: a work of the heart!
I love the glassware you use – so pretty!
Here is a link to their page- if you like custard-y yogurt (like Greek but thicker), then you will love this ! http://skyr.com/products_overview.html
I’ve never worked with iMovie so I don’t know how to do that…but if you ever use Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro, then I’m happy to help!
I looked at the grocery store this morning but no luck:p oh well, will keep on the look out for it!!
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I started making yogurt in October, but my recipe doesn’t do the boil for 2 minutes part. I’m going to try that since mine isn’t the consistency I like. Great vintage movie—just beautiful.
I love your styling Smidge. Beautiful images and how clever you are to make your own movie! I don’t have a yoghurt maker but I think now I should go out and buy one.
Awesome:) Glad you liked it!
Thank you, nia xoxo. I don’t believe I’ve purchased buffalo yogurt yet? I’ve had buffalo mozarella… so will have to watch for that one…
I’m sure you have an awesome recipe for that one, I love ricotta in so many dishes..
Aaah, you got me there, it is a work of the he(art):) xoxo Smidge xoxo
The yogurt gods (aka my booklet) says boiling isn’t necessary but will “ensure a firmer yogurt familiar to most American tastes.” Not sure what Canadian tastes are like:)
I’m definitely happen with my purchase. I did get an extra set of jars, otherwise you can’t make more until you completely run out of the first batch. They’re not an expensive machine. I think the starter yogurt and the boiling temperature and time is the key. My mom used to make yogurt and it didn’t have this nice consistency so she gave up.
You are too creative for words! Love the vintage video – and am now very sad I don’t have a yogurt machine. It looks so delicious!
I am not a huge yogurt person, but I know I need to eat it more. So I think I will try out this recipe. And I LOVE your video. Let me tell you.. when the music came one, I was over here dancing in my seat lol. Love it
Well done, Smidge! The post itself was well-written and the accompanying shots were beautiful but you included a video which put this blog entry over-the-top! I really love what you did here.
Don’t be sad… They are inexpensive, alternatively I’ve seen people who’ve blogged how to make it without a machine.. I just think that would be a lot trickier:)
Hahaha, just picturing you dancing, I love that song too! My kids used to play it Saturdays when they had to clean the house:) If you’re not a fan of plain yogurt, just stir any jam into it and you have a flavored yogurt…
Homemade yogurt…too cool! Never thought of making it from scratch. The yogurt maker would of course help though. 
I’m with John–beautiful shots!!
Totally impressed..and inspired!!!
I’ve always been curious about making my own yogurt but am always afraid I will kill myself by doing something wrong haha. I feel the same way about canning jam too. I need to get over it!
I totally think that about canning!! Unless it’s freezer jam:)
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Thank you so much, John, praise from you means that much more because I always admire your extensive, entertaining and expertly written ones (oh my, that was a lot of e’s.. I’m going to add “excellent” to that as well:)
Thanks so much Caroline. Yes, I think the machine is worth it, I know some “gadgets” collect dust, but this was so easy and the taste so much better.. fresher.
Great video Barb! You never cease to surprise me how talented you are. May just have to invest in a Yogurt maker…. again. Love your blog. Thanks for sharing your wonderful food experiences with us all.
Thanks so much:)
You’re so sweet and so kind, Shauna:) I loved the yogurt we made, so did my daughter. It’s sure been fun writing these…
xoxoxo Barb
Gorgeous post! I love everything about this!
Dear Smidge! I just tagged you to answer the Ten Questions being passed around the table. I hope you won’t mind sharing with the rest of us! xo Spree
http://cooking-spree.com/2012/01/12/10-little-monkeys/
I’ve never seen a recipe for homemade yogurt before. That looks like so much fun!
Looks delicious, Smidge. Yogurt is one of the things I buy at the store… I’m sure yours is better.
The vintage film a total success!
Every berry, spoon and cup of yogurt photos just lovely. Beautiful light.
Thanks, Sarah!
Thanks so much spree:) I’ve been tagged by John as well, which is fine, since I’ve put off answering them.. now I’ve really got to sit down and think about the answers!
It was… kind of like a science experiment!
It was definitely fresh, that much I know.. I think the quality of starter that’s used affects the resulting taste? But not sure, I’ve not experimented enough… Thanks so much
I just love the photography side of things… like you:)
Dear Barbara, can you help me, I try to check my book list. Maybe I confused but I am sure you remember, in one of your post you mentioned a children book and you posted one of picture of this book. There was a little girl with a dark blue sweater (but with white too) remember? It reminded me childhood memories too and I had something like that… anyway, I am looking for this post of yours, but I can’t find, if you give me the link or the name of this book I would be so glad, actually I noted this book in my English book list but I can’t find it now… Thank you dear Barbara, have a nice day and enjoyable weekend, with my love, nia
Hi Nia, the post is Treva’s Forest Mushroom Pasta at http://wp.me/pyLRA-19f Jan Brett is the author of The Hat, The Mitten, and Treva’s Trolls. I hope that helps !! Xo Smidge
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Thank you, Thank you so much dear Barbara, I found and noted clearly this time, I hope I can find on Amazon. I really loved this book writer so much. Have a nice day and enjoyable weekend, with my love, nia
I am highly impressed! Homemade yogurt! I love your photos – and your video! You have a very nice eye for both!
Amazing! There’s that special satisfaction when you make things like yoghurt yourself. You are assured that it is a good stuff because you know what is in it. I love yoghurt with apples and cereals for breakfast.
I really want to purchase a yogurt maker (as I do a whole host of one-off appliances). It’s posts like these that make me do impulsive purchases.
You are too clever, loved this
Oh, so well done, Smidge!! Love the video, the instructions, the photos. All of it.
I’ve always wanted to make my own yogurt, but then I started drifting towards veganism and well… hard to do without dairy. But watching your video and looking at your images, I’m rethinking yogurt.
Producer, director, star…I can say I knew you when. I love the glasses and spoons, by the way, really lovely.
That was wonderful Smidge! You’re so creative! I eat a lot of yohurt and now I’m thinking maybe it would work out well if I could make my own… especially now i have a handy little video with a groovy song showing me how.
You had fun putting that together didn’t you
Awesome Smidge!
Loved your video and your pictures! Perfect! The yogurt with the napkin, spoons, and three raspberries…just gorgeous.
Thanks so much, I had so much fun with this!
That’s so true, there is so much added to packaged food, the taste of home-made is unbeatable!
Oops.. Sorry about that, but I think you’ll love it!
Thank you!
Hahaha, wouldn’t that be fun! One thing’s for certain hands can be in the video, but I don’t have the courage to show my face!
That’s a tough one, I tried vegetarian for a bit… But I lacked the will power!
Hahaha, yup, you’ve gotta have the song on while you’re dancing around the kitchen.. I think making yogurt is quite a bit easier to make than mince tarts;)
It sure was, now I’m going to recruit my daughter to videotape next time so I can use two hands;)
Thank you! I hope to take a photography class this winter… It would be fun!
Absolutely agree with all those who said the photographs are beautiful. They are so pretty. I don’t have a yogurt maker so I can’t try this recipe. I use mainly (but not exclusively) soya milk so I am not sure if I could make yogurt at home. Next time I see a yogurt maker in a department store I am going to ask if it would work with soya milk.
Loved the video! It was a mellow start to my morning, thank you!
Very cool post!
Such a great post – am just doing catch up and I see great videos, beautiful songs, lovely paintings in another post. Is there no end to your talents?! I love this as I am a big fan of homemade yogurt – wonderful!
Chanced upon your blog today and I’m so glad I did… you are incredibly gifted Barbara aka Smidge .
Haaaave you met Stanley… Poor little Stanley Lambchop was smashed flat one night by a bulletin board that his mother hung over his bed… This engaging children’s book tells of Flat Stanley’s adventures as he was subsequently (and conveniently) then folded and mailed in an envelope. Schools all over the world took up the “Flat…
Ruthie’s little legs must have been churning to keep up with YOU, Smidge! I predict she’s headed for a spa next, as well she should be! But that smile never left her face, so she clearly enjoyed your company (as well she should have.) what fun!
A day like that…Ruthie shouldn’t complain! Looks like a wonderful day!
PS – I got a bit side tracked clicking over to the pancake recipe – Good Lord…I’m in heaven!
I have met with them all now… What a beautiful and lovely post, dear Barbara, I fall in love… Fascinated so much… Thank you. How creative you are too. I can’t find exact or enough words to explain my feelings… With my love, nia
This was just too cute Smidge. I know the book well. We had a Flat Stanley with us this summer. I like that you took little Ruthie on a an “ordinary” day. And that soup looks perfect for healing.
My six-year old just loves the Flat Stanley books. I hadn’t heard about Flat Ruthie. I am lying in bed but am worn out from reading your day with Ruthie. You don’t think perhaps Ruthie was happy to move on to somewhere less fast-paced? I’m sure you wore her out.
Sounds like a very busy day!
That also looks like a very interesting blog you & Ruthie were reading there.
Hahaha, it’s quite a visual image you gave me here:) Spree, I think we should be headed for a Spa.. how quickly we forget the relaxation over Christmas!!
That’s a very dangerous recipe.. approach with caution!!
Thank you kindly, nia.. It was a fun one to write up… only because of Ruth’s imaginative idea! xo Smidge
I thought some of you might have heard of him. The book came out in 1960′s and has been a mainstay of the Elementary classroom ever since! I’m glad you had one over the summer! That would have been interesting and fun!!
It was fun teaching, to be able to send projects like this around was a lot of fun!! I’m sure Ruthie has lots more fun in store for her!
Hahaha, absolutely that is your blog!! I sure enjoyed reading that one!! Too cute that you spotted it!!
Fabulous what Flat Ruthie can get done in a day
Yay! Flat Stanley! A favorite. Flat Ruthie is surprisingly three-dimensional for a cardboard person–so sociable and active. I can’t believe the pace she kept up through such an intense, long day. Oh, I mean *you* of course! Superwoman must be *your* stunt double. Good heavens!
A very fun, very full post. Outstanding!
xoxo!
I love Flat Stanley! When I was teaching, I had my fifth graders AND first graders (different years) do Flat Stanley. The kids loved seeing what their little flat person was up to. So fun, also, to get a real glimpse of one of your typical days.
Wow! What a great day! Will put the link to your wonderful post on the http://cardboardmetravels blog. Thanks, Smidge! You made it fun. Hope “she” wasn’t too much trouble. I love how you introduced her with Cousin Stanley first.
[...] favorite blogger, Just a Smidgen posted a delicious Chicken Soup with Stars recipe this afternoon. Read this post to see what [...]
Great post, Smidge! That Flat Ruthie sure does get around! I know she’s been seen in Arkansas and she & I have been discussing what to do while she’s here in Chi-Town. I hope you’ve not tired her too much. Thank goodness you fed her such a hearty chicken soup. After a bowl or two of that — ok, maybe just a spoonful or two — she’s ready for anything this CIty of Big Shoulders has to offer.
By the way, Smidge, I’ve tagged you for the 10 Question Quiz. Drop by my place for the details. (I don’t want to hijack your comments section.)
I was certain you, of all people, would know who Flat Stanley was:) I think I have a Superwoman costume in the house somewhere, perhaps I shall wear it for my next post:P Thanks, Kathryn!! Xo Smidge
It really is a neat project.. One of the highlights of teaching, for sure! Thanks so much!! Xo Smidge
Great looking soup! Love the stars And what a fun little adventure you took Ruthie on! I was sent Flat Stanley about 10 years ago, from my cousin, so he got to go to high school with me and everything! It’s a fun project, for sure
Oh… If only I could tag along with Ruthie.. I imagine it will be so much fun! I’ve never been to Chicago and I know she’ll well fed!! I’ll take a look at the 10 Questions… Thank you!! Xo Smidge
I’m please so many people know about Flat Stanley.. I knew him through teaching, but apparently lots of students did as well, which is just awesome!! Xo Smidge
LOL this post was so entertaining! I love the recipe too. I just ate dinner but would gladly eat a bowl of that soup!
It’s pretty healthy for sure and there’s always room for a teensy bowl of soup, isn’t there!? Glad you had a good laugh! Xo Smidge
You’re so welcome, Ruth.. it was lots of fun!
xo Smidge
Hilarious Flat Ruthie! Love it! How fun that you got to work together on this!
It was fun For Ruth and I and flat Ruthie was a good sport;)
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What a fun post! Never heard of Stanley or Ruthie before, but they seem like a lot of fun!
It’s a children’s book… An old, old book:) and Flat Ruthie is a blogger’s spin on the book! Glad you enjoyed it!
Flat Stanley visited me once (and I took him round Dubai). Sent him off to the states and never heard another word…often wonder what happened to him! Love flat Ruthie – she must be flat-out after such a busy day
I can imagine Dubai.. how lucky Flat Stanley was!! Flat Ruthie can rest while she’s in the mail, lol!
Me and Ruth can totally hang out.. you know why? She asked “Where’s the chocolate?” LOL. Gotta love that. And I do love the little star pasta. I’ve never seen that before.. I certainly have to find it. And that soup just look amazing. Loved having Ruth on this post
I think that Flat Ruthie has the right idea; she watches while you spin yourself into a tizzy and work yourself to the bone. 
Lovely post and exquisite looking soup!
Brilliant post – so clever! What a fun day you had together Love the soup too – could just eat a bowl full now.
What a fun post! Yay for Flat Ruth’s visit – you two certainly did have a busy day together.
LOVE your soup.
Mandy
I think this is my favorite post of yours ever! You were terribly creative and I am so impressed how you brought Ruthie EVERYWHERE! Even spin class. Your soup looks like it would help get anyone better. Yum! Thanks for letting us take a peek into your life. This flat Ruthie idea is INGENIOUS! I will visit her blog next to tell her. So F-U-N.
What an absolutely fun post. Anyone who reads it will never think that you sit home all day just eating bonbons. I agree…I think the two of you should be off to a spa now. Your soup sounds wonderful, by the way.
I love Flat Stanley. Flat Ruth is the best one I’ve seen.
When I was in fourth grade, we did a Flat Stanley project. I was so obsessed with him, even after the project was over, I kept carrying him around in a little manilla folder suitcase I had made. I even took him to Mexico. I’m glad you had a fun time with your Flat Ruthie.
I’m exhausted after reading about your and Ruthie’s charming adventures on such a busy day! I need some of that great-looking starry soup, now. This was such a fun and creative post, definitely showcasing your talent for storytelling as well as cooking, and I really enjoyed reading. Ruthie will have so much to tell her family when she gets home! I’ve tagged you in my last post for the Food Blogger’s Unplugged Award, BTW, and look forward to your answers if you choose to accept. Cheers!
Whew, I got tired right along with Ruthie!! What a fun post and fun day you two had!! A big bowl of soup was the perfect thing for your busy day! I love using the little stars in soup, especially chicken soup.
What a great day! I’m sure Ruthie had a blast!
Tremendous fun, I loved this
Absolutely fabulous!!!!!
I LOVE this post! It’s so much fun!
And now I know how all the Jennifers and Johns feel, lol. Another Ruth(ie) is not a common occurence! ~Ruth
I’m out of breath just reading about everything you’ve done today! Great blog!
Flat Stan – what a great idea. I enjoyed reading your adventures with Flat Ruthie.
Inspired concept! Well done!
[...] Just a Smidgen’s Flat Stanley? No, It’s Flat Ruthie’s Chicken Soup for Stars: No, it’s not this Ruthie. Barbara and her wordpress alter ego “Smidge” have got to be one of the most creative blogs out there. Check out “Flat Ruthie’s” trip around Calgary with Smidge which ends with a fantastic looking bowl of chicken soup. [...]
This will be the last snow photo from me for a while.. “Aaargh not another Bloody Bleak snow picture!!” Yay! With only a one hour delay we made it through the Roger’s Pass (a snow-filled high point between Revelstoke and Golden, B.C.) and home, only to find (aside from those few gorgeous hefty dumps of snow in…
Well, I tried to go to your Facebook page, but I might be missing something, could not arrive there, although I clicked on the “like” at the bottom of your post
was there a clickable link in your post that I missed?
back to cooking: lovely salad, although I had to smile imagining that what you say is unseasonably warm in Calgary would probably freeze my Brazilian bones
Thanks for letting me know!! I’ll take a look!
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Ok… I’ve added a link:) Thanks so much for the heads-up:) Sally!
The top image of the snowy mountain is so lovely. I feel serene and peaceful just looking at. What a good idea to buy a big bunch of flowers when the Christmas decorations come down . Your friend sounds like the very best type of friend to have and her salad looks good too.
I am having such trouble with my server and cannot download pics, but I am also NOT going to moan about the weather, just because it is warmer!! have fun.. c
It really lifts the spirits those flowers:) Yes… she is an awesome friend!!
Delightful post!
Yum; that looks so good!
Oh… Computers can be so frustrating!!!! Yes!! Cheers with beers to the warm weather!
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Thanks:)
It is so good:) Thanks for stopping by!
After last Winter’s fury, maybe the weather gods are giving us a break this year — or just playing with us. Either way, I’m enjoying this! Your salad sounds wonderful and I love the use of the grated swiss.
It may be winter, but it certainly does look like spring at your place!
I found you on Facebook, woo hoo!
Beautiful salad and oh so beautiful peonies. Have never seen them here in Spain so will have to content myself with your photos. It seems to be spring here too – all very confusing for the plants and animals!
Ahhh… Salad + Nature, are kidding me! I loved it.
Hahaha, I like the way you think.. they must be toying with us and I’m happy to keep the snow up in the mountains where it belongs:) Thanks for adding me on Facebook! It’s fun to meet up on different sites, eh?
I’m workin’ on it… working very hard in fact… Tree is down and flowers are up. Not sure what the next step will be?
Yes!! Very fun to be connecting on another site isn’t it?? It means I get more “mail” than just the regular posts from you… awesome!
I didn’t know they were a local flower… but every region has their favorites. Peonies grow quite easily in the gardens here… but cost a fortune out of season at the florist. She gave me a smokin’ deal and I just had to have them:) Yes… the poor plants and animals? What must they think??
Well, that’s just awesome… so glad you came by and liked it all:)
Looks delicious! I love a loaded-up salad.
Some of your most beautiful ‘vignette’ shots yet, my darling. Spectacular! Such lovely objects (and yes, peonies are so explosively sweet), so truly artfully arranged. Heaven! Capped with a magnificent snowy peak, followed by glorious Goethe, a crisp and refreshing salad (oh yes, pears! pears!). Woman, you have gone right over the top! Love it. *Love* it.
xoxo!
Kathryn
So technically, how many more months of winter will you have to endure, Smidge? Your beautiful photos and poems will help us make it to spring. Take Care, BAM
Great post, yet again.
Smidge, You have been awarded the 7 x 7 Award – Congratulations! Find out more at http://theemeraldgarden.wordpress.com/2012/01/08/7-x-7-award/
Inviting photographs. A lovely post and delicious recipe!
Today it was in the 60s and felt like Spring. Strange.
I’m never tired of looking at your snow photos – we are very snow deprived over here. I’ll click on your FB link.
Is there a reason why the poppy seeds shouldn’t be added to the salad if you want to hold some over for the next day?
The Facebook Page is a great idea and it’s a lovely page. As always I love your evocative photos and the choice of recipe and poem are lovely, too.
What a beautiful post… Photographs fascinated me so much… Have a wonderful romantic touches… You are amazing dear Barbara. And sure, the poem is another beautiful touches throught the poetical words… Then once again you fascinated me with your delicious and nice salad recipe and photographs… This is the beautiful world you created that I can stay forever in there… Thank you, with my love, nia
I love your peonies!!!! They are one of my favorites as well. They remind me of playing with my grandma in the spring at her house. She loved peonies and had several bushes. She would let me pick them and arrange bouquets. Thank you for those memories this morning. And I know what you mean about the geese being confused – it’s more spring like here than winter. (Not that I’m complaining.) And I noticed yesterday that my daffodils are beginning to come up. I don’t think they realize it’s still January either. And of course the salad looks phenomenal!
Smidge, happy to have you on facebook!
Lovely post! As for the peonies – I think my very favorite flower – there are times when absolutely nothing should stand in the way of plunking down big money for them. Amazing what a bouquet of peonies does for a room and for the spirits! Icy winter to fragrant spring!
As for the salad – which look delicious – I’ve counted twice and I’m 2 shy on the poppy seeds. What would you do?
Beautiful series of images, beautiful words, and one really yummy looking salad. What more could anyone want in a blog post?
The snow pictures are never dreary Smidge. Never.As a So. Cal. girl, I never, ever get to see beautiful snow capped mountains like THAT. This spring salad looks incredible. Cashews? I have not used them in a salad before. Bad, bad me. Because that sounds excellent. Love the combinations of fresh ingredients for a healthy start to our new year.
Very nice! Can’t wait to try it…
I’m just counting down the days until spring, too. It’s my favorite season – though here we generally have winter, then another fall, and then a short spring before summer. Love the peonies!! And the salad recipe.
What a beautiful spring salad! Bouquet is definitely the right word.
I just LOVE all of your photos of the classic mirrors and the flowers. I am in such aww of the classic white/cream mirror above. And this spring salad.. amazing. Love the recipe.. I just love salad any day of the week
Glad to help!
Thanks so much! They’re a favorite of mine after Christmas!
Love to you, Kathryn, xoxoxo Smidge xoxoxo
That’s an excellent question, I think I always try to plant my garden after the May long weekend, but we can get a big snowstorm at any point in June… So?? I shouldn’t think this will last forever:)
I think you’re away at the moment.. at a spa I believe?? Anyway, when you get back I shall comply:) Thanks so much!! What a great surprise!!
Interesting, eh? I’ve been reading similar stories everywhere.. and our blogging sites cover a lot of countries!
That’s so awesome of you! Well, as you’ve read we would like a little snow here as well… I did hear from my daughter we’re getting snow in the mountains tonight!! Yay!!
I might be wrong, but pretty sure I read somewhere not to keep them in?? Not sure why, perhaps you do? I think something happens to their texture would be my guess:) But perhaps one day wouldn’t make a difference?
Thanks so much! It’s fun and I can post food related updates that don’t involve a whole post of writing… I can include extra photos as well… I’m glad you liked that poem:)
You’re very welcome, nia, it’s always so great to write when it’s you who is reading:) xoxo Smidge
I’m glad my post brought back great memories like that.. you never know what will trigger one of those and it’s sure great when it happens. I can just imagine you picking them with your grandma…
I wonder if the daffodils will just bloom and then be done early??
Thanks, Spree!! For all of your lovely comments… I laughed out loud, thank goodness for you and your sharp eyes.. I’ll change this back tomorrow, but think I should leave it there to see if anyone else notices!! Hilarious!
Oh, I think some of your beautiful photos would do;) Thanks so much, this is a real compliment coming from you!
Well.. it’s never too late, I hope you get the chance for a winter holiday one day.. go skiing, tobogganing, snowmen, snow angels… it’s so much fun! Cashew are one of my favorite in a salad, I hope you like them if you try!
Such pretty photos, Smidge, happy new year xxx
I always love the variety on your blog.
inspiration began here, with incidental musing… ‘what must it be like to live here and cook over this fragrant wood stove’s heat’ i wondered
*nom* *nom* *nom*
love the house
Hahaha, I was thinking this needed to be added to the Nom Nom list:) Thanks!
Alright, that’s it i’m staying here! not going anywhere lol
Ahhha… I’ve got a few beer here to share…
Our weather has turned to snow and dropping temps. This dish would be so comforting and nice right now. Beautiful shots!
i wish i was having a beer right now
Bundle up and keep warm… I’ve just suddenly got a chill and am off to make a cup of tea…
And I would give you one:) Have a happy new year!!
Be right there!
I saw the bacon and my mind went nuts without even seeing the recipe lol. There is just something about bacon lol. Loved the bison stew recipe.. it looks amazing
I’m with you on that one.. my favorite chocolate has bacon in it, strange but lovely combination!
There’s something so warming and hearty about a stew. It’s real winter comfort food! As always highly entertaining backstory and gorgeous photos. You’re cookin’, girl!
Oooo, I’ve never tried Bison before. But I’ll join you for a toast with the winter ale:)
That sounds amazing! The beer sounds very good. I always like to find beers with something in that is a bit different for my Dad. If only I could find one of those here I’m sure he’d love it. The pictures of the house reminded me of the illustrations in a lovely European Christmas children’s book I’ve had since childhood. It’s a real treasure that I get out every year. However, I’ll have to put it away soon. 
On a completely unrelated note…Festus and Felix the pheasants are back! Although I don’t think I’ve seen Phillip yet.
Loving those photos Smidge. I feel like I’m on site with you. I can almost smell the Bison Stew cooking on the stove. I have never seen this beer before, is it from a Microbrewery?
Nothing like a hearty stew to keep the chill away! Yours here sounds wonderful, Smidge, and your photos make it so tantalizing!
How did you manage such handsome photos in a woodsy cabin in the middle of winter? Nicely done! I can hear the fire’s crackle and smell the herbal, stewy potful. I can feel the almost-prickly wood fire dryness on my skin. I can taste the sweet maple and vanilla in the ale. Smidge, I think I might belong in that picture! Thanks for that – what a nice thing to wake to!
Does bison taste like beef? Never tried it … come to think of it, I’ve never seen a live bison. Wonder if it’s similar to buffalo?
I loved this little house and the stove too… How amazing to eat there now… I am hungry! Seems so delicious, Thank you dear Barbara, have a nice day, with my love, nia
This looks so good and comforting. A perfect cold winter’s day food. I know my daughter would love this. The last time we made bison, she devoured it.
What a great way to warm up on a cold day! Still very jealous of the snow!
Luscious. Beautiful description and pictures as always, but oh, I’m salivating over the smell and taste I’m imagining! I *love* a good stew, and tinkerer that I am, there’s not a thing I’d change in this recipe.
Ooohhh…that looks warm and wonderful!
I bet that made the kitchen smell wonderful!
Fabulous and I think sampling the ale while cooking is compulsory!
Great comfort food and the ale has to be tasted for good measure!
Beautiful pictures, this looks delicious!
Now THIS looks amazing. I make stew with venison and beef, but have never thought of putting in the bacon. And the cabin looks like a perfect place to enjoy it.
Glad you keep stopping by.
scrummity as my niece would say
Look at that! The prep photos were pretty, but when I got to the last photo, I said, out loud, “Look at that!”.
Hmmm, I’ve never seen bison on the menu here in Sydney. Think there’s a shortage of those beasts. But I would love to try! I guess I could substitute beef and give this recipe a try. Love your snowy photos – beautiful serene images.
This must be the month for stew! I just saw this after I posted my stew the day after yours! I love how you present your recipes; those herbs look amazing! Always beautiful and delicious!
It is so cold outside here! I bet this stew would warm me right up!
It’s 15 degrees in NYC today! I need this to stay warm!
Thanks so much… Misk:)
That would be awesome!!
It seems craft beers are enjoying a new renaissance around here… We have a Craft beer restaurant where you can buy a “flight” of different tiny glasses of beer to discover which you like. I think it’s such a great change from wine and can add so much potential new flavor to various recipes. I’m with your Dad and becoming more of a beer connoisseur.
Yay!! Glad to hear your pheasant friends came back!
I wish you were… it would be fun, wouldn’t it?? But that’s a long way to travel;) This is a brewery located on Granville Island which is part of Vancouver, Canada. I think other microbreweries must make similar flavored beers?? I had just never tasted one before…
Thanks, John. Haven’t been to your site in a few days… on my way over:)
That’s so true about writing.. If I started with the stew and wanted to find a cabin, I probably wouldn’t have been able to lcoate one:) I’m glad you enjoyed this one!
Very similar, mine was a bit more “fatty”. I think the term is interchangeable here, but scientifically speaking a bison is not in the same family as a water buffalo… so they package it as bison to be clearer about what you’re getting:)
I know… I’ve wished to have lived in one of these for some time now.. but don’t think I’ll ever do more than visit one! Thanks, nia, you have a wonderful day as well!
Brrr… that’s chilly for New York! It is supposed to be that warm in my home town of Calgary today!
It sure would… like any good stew;)
Lol, I did read your stew post as well and thought it looks so flavorful:) Great minds think alike!! How can you not make stew and other one-dish meals at this time of year, right? Thank you!!
Haha, yes, I didn’t think of that when writing the recipe;) Beef would do fine… I was just trying to mix things up in the old kitchen by using bison. I was also a bit curious to see if there was a different taste but couldn’t detect much, maybe because it was in the stew?
Ahh, you’re so sweet! Thanks for saying that!
I love an invented word.. that’s a cute one!
Mmm this stew looks hearty and delicious. I can imagine the beer giving it a wonderful dimension of flavor. Too bad it’s in the 80s here in California–I want to make this! x
It looks wonderful! I would like a bowl for lunch today! YUMMMMM!!!!!
Hehe, thanks!
I’ve come across several fruit beers over time, which I’ve bought for Dad. Another good thing about the beer variety is that I think it might be more accessible to more people. Some people do tend to feel intimidated by wine, which is a shame.
How’d you get herbs that fresh?!
Wow, this is my idea of a perfect holiday! What can be more perfect than being in such a cabin in a winter wonderland setting. Tour bison stew is so tempting. I’ve never tried bison meat before but it must be close to beef in taste 9 (or not?).
Bison sounds so exotic to me! I bet this tasted delicious.
Wow, the house looks so cozy and this winter stew is just perfect to enjoy by the fire
That seals it…I want to spend a holiday season with you! The snowy cabin, coziness, gorgeous, soul and tummy warming food (the brie and this stew is mouth watering!) is the epitome of the what I think of when the holiday season comes around. Wishing you and your family the happiest, most wonderful 2012, filled with love and laughter!
Thanks, Kristy… I thought bison was pretty similar to the beef I used, but it maybe a bit more fat? My daughter managed to get a bowl when we got home;)
Well, no need to be jealous any more.. we’ve had so much chinook wind here that the snow in Calgary was gone when we got home! Oh, well, it makes it easy to get around!
I’m so glad you enjoyed my post… stew is one of those wonderful savory comfort foods, eh? I am reminded of words every time you post:) I love the word “tinkerer”!
It was perfect after being out all day, I started getting a bit of a chill so this really fit the bill.
Nothing like having something simmering and stewing away in the oven to make the whole house smell great and homey:)
Indeed! I wouldn’t have it any other way. We went back to the bar on our last night and they were out of stock:( I almost had a little fit!! lol
It’s tough to recommend a beer for other countries.. etc, but any microbrewery likely has one with similar “notes” and flavors. It was just my first time trying one out:)
Thank you so much:)
I had thoughts of venison. That’s something I haven’t tried before.. now that I’m getting more adventuresome… I’ll have to find a recipe!
Hahaha, too bad it isn’t in the 80s here:) Sigh… enjoy!!
Hahaha, my friends that live near me have been saying the same thing:)
Believe it or not, just in packets at the grocery store.. the ground is frozen here and will not grow a thing (unless it’s in some sort of green house with heating). I just like to put my herbs in water and a jar.. it feels a bit like spring then…
It is very similar. In the stew I had a difficult time distinguishing the difference. It actually seemed to have more fat.. maybe it was the cut I bought because bison is supposed to be a leaner meat and, therefore, healthier to cook with. Thanks for stopping by:)
It was yummy… but I mostly just tasted the beer;) Just kidding…
Yes… it was one of those picturesque settings.. makes you wish you could live that way… at least for part of the year:) I still like my hot summers!
Thank you so much for all of your kind words… you would be welcome to join us:) I hope you had a wonderful Christmas as well and I just really look forward to 2012 and seeing your beautiful posts:)
I wish I had the appetite to enjoy your wonderful creations!
[...] winter, after traveling the same Silver Star trails last January, I made a batch of Wylie’s Winter Ale Bison Stew but this year.. I wanted to experiment [...]
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Oh I loved your answers especially the sad feeling of leaving a post behind. It is like saying goodbye to a joyful day. Our work turns into sandcastles. And your pages are always so beautiful, polished and sparkling with intelligence. i love that in a woman!! c
Gorgeous grapefruit — it’s the raspberries and powdered sugar on the plate that do it.
Thank you for sharing all this information about yourself. I don’t know what a slanket is either! This recipe is so perfect for me as I have just bought some grapefruits and maple syrup (Shady Maple Farms organic). So tomorrow’s breakfast is Simple Gestures Grapefruit.
You’ve thought of the perfect metaphor!! Sandcastle.. yes, that’s what we are building:) Thank you for your lovely words, c.
I love this recipe because it reminds me of Sylvia (owner) of Fairholme Manor..
Lucky you, we’ve eaten all of ours… I think the sugar on it’s own works best, I tried combining the two, without much success. It seemed to need more sugar than I thought as well.. She said two but I just made a mound..Good luck!!
It was fun to read your answers to the questions and you are so right about Chicago John and his excellent site and stories and recipes. He writes the wittiest, intelligent and most creative comments and expresses himself eloquently. (you too, Rufus). I have sent so many friends to both the aforementioned blogs and they are ALWAYS a source of conversation. And then your lovely blog inspires my friends far and wide as well. I am going to check out the others you mentioned today. Your photographs are just stunningly tasty and inviting, always in a lovely light.
Is there a video with your playing music? Then it would be complete! Everyone I know loved your day with Flat Ruthie. Thanks, Smidge.
Congratulations on the awards and tags! I enjoyed reading your answers and getting to know more about you.
And that grapefruit looks beautiful! Love the color. 
Dear Smidge. I liked learning a little bit more about you. However, I think I could tell many of these things about you through your beautiful writing. I loved your response to question number 9. Indeed I wish there was an edit button before we hit the verbal send. Take Care, BAM
One of my favorite ways to eat grapefruit! (or to get people who like grapefruit less than I to eat grapefruit:)).
I haven’t done a vid of my cello yet.. maybe that should be my New Year’s Resolution?? I’d better get practicing then!! I think I enjoyed my day with Flat Ruthie as much as your friends:) xo Smidge
Thanks, Kristy
Now I think warmed grapefruit is so much nicer than cold out of the fridge!
Dear Bam, you are so correct.. if you follow my blog long enough you might just know everything about me;) xo Smidge
I’m sure this recipe’s been done many times before… it was my first time trying it. I did wish that I had a blow torch, it would have been much simpler:) Glad you love grapefruit!!
What a great post, so nice to learn a bit more about you. I think I got lost the first time I went over to Bartolini’s kitchen! I was looking at the history and all sorts of things. It took me about two seconds to subscribe!
It’s true, isn’t it! You can be lost for days visiting John’s (and your!) blog! Thought you’d be happy to know your recipe was the most popular:) That comes as no surprise to me!
Congrats on your award! Fab recipe and photo as usual!
I know before I’ve barely started that this is going to be a very long comment…so much in this post (but in fact all your posts) that I enjoy Incredibly much! I so loved your answers! Let’s start with number 1 ! I haven’t known you long (in people years) Smidge, but I would have described you in those same seven words…your spirit rings out through what you share with us in Just A Smidgen. Your #3 answer was illuminating – it makes utter sense when I think about it! Your gift with the language is obvious, and your taste for vintage and charming and pretty is Everywhere throughout your site. Even though you can see yourself doing something else, your gifts do find Beautiful Expression here. Answer #7 – I so identify with this, Smidge! Each post a labor of love and deep intention, a creation that rises from the heart – the recipe merely a vehicle to (however “corny” this may sound) share the love. I GET that from your posts, which is why, each time I show up, I’m elevated by it and happier for having come. (Your comment about turning the page so quickly and moving on, that’s spot on too. There’s always more joy around the corner. Yet still, the momentum feels a bit rushed, and the creations become buried a bit deeper with each new post. Which reminds me, I’ll go from here to each of the 7 posts you referenced!)
Your comments about Chicago John. You’ve said it so well. The Quality and Character of John shines through his thoughtful, kind, witty, intelligent, family-oriented delicious blog and through every thoughtful word he leaves, like seeds, in others’ gardens.
As for your kind words about me, thank you Smidge, deeply.
As for the recipe you shared today – how utterly gorgeous is that! I mean over-the-top, inspired beautiful styling, and I want our table looking Just like that! What a welcome, refreshing, good-morning-sunshine table! Exquisite.
Thank you for today’s post….I so appreciated your answers, like windows onto Smidge!
Thanks Susie! Have a wonderful Sunday!
I love reading these and getting to ‘know’ people better. And I would surely come to your B&B any day of the week! I can just imagine how fabulous it would be.
spree, you’re making my eyes get all watery now :*)… I have really enjoyed connecting with you through blogging and can’t tell you how wonderful it was to read your comments this morning. Your blog is uplifting and inspiring.. just such a beautiful world to visit… every single word and photo is so lovingly crafted.
I’m so grateful to have met you:)
Perhaps you’ve also deduced why I would choose B&B over a restaurant.. because I would only have to make breakfasts, my favorite meal of the day:) Thanks so much, Courtney!
Yes the ‘leaving a post behind’ i can relate to that
Glad it’s not just me:)
I so enjoy reading these answers to questions about a person. It’s always so interesting. You certainly deserve every award coming your way because you’re creative and inspiring.
As are you, dear Misk:) It is fun… I didn’t forward either to anyone because I know these things take time. I have been thrilled to post a link to my favorite blogs instead on my sidebar:) I have had so many people click to connect to other blogs through this, it’s been so great to have! xo Smidge
Lovely to read about you. I can totally relate to worrying about children and the angst of having to put a fresh post over a current post. Sometimes I wish there was a way I could have them side by side.
It seems we learn a bit more about you with every post. Thanks for sharing.
Beautiful photos as always.
Your grapefruit looks divine! And great answers!
What a beautiful post. Congratulations on the award, it is well-deserved. You’re such a terrific writer. I think you express yourself perfectly! Love reading your words…..and your recipes too.
Sooooo happy I found your blog. I think I said that already, in another comment, but I love it here.
Gorgeous presentation of the grapefruit! I love citrus fruits, especially in the winter.
Oh, Smidge, this was such a pleasure to read! You really should write a “How to Accept an Award” post! I know I would benefit greatly from it. If I were to find fault, and this is but a minor quibble, it would be that I would have included an 8th word to describe you. That word beng “kind.” Yours is a kind and gentle spirit, Smidge. It shines in every one of your posts and in each and every comment you leave on ours. Anyone seeking more proof need look no further than your gracious comments-above about my blog. Thank you, Smidge, for those kind words and for all of the kind & encouraging words that you’ve written “over at my place.”
All of our friends who’ve beat me to the punch commenting on this post have it right, my lovely–you are both deserving of these moments in the limelight and a light yourself to the rest of us gathered here at your table! Thank you for sharing the joy.
xoxo!
Kathryn
PS–just noticed the addition of the peonies to the header, and LOVE the confluence of shape and texture with the frosting or meringue in that first frame (one of my favorite shots of *any* food photos I’ve seen, and you know that from me that’s going some).
Hi Barbara, thank you for commenting on my blog recently. We made this exact ‘dessert’ on our recent trip to Morocco. I must remember to do it next time we have overnight guests. Nice to read about you.
Very cool “peek behind the curtain!” I enjoyed this one very much!
Yes, that would be nice, wouldn’t it? I’ve looked at blog themes that do something like this, but not quite. Have you looked at the ipad version ever? I quite like it… it has one photo from each blog, about 6 to a “page” that you can touch and it opens that post. A touch and then a swipe and you see 6 photos from the next set of posts… It’s quite visually beautiful!
You’re welcome.. We learn so much about and from each other.. it’s awesome!
Thanks so much:)
It’s fun, isn’t it, to discover a new blog.. it’s like finding a brand new novel.. really it is like a novel because we get to read your story:) I’m so happy to have connected with you! xoxo Smdige
You made me realize how important it is to have citrus in the winter for their Vitamin C:)
Thanks so much!!
*grin* But I think I was following in your footsteps:) And thanks for saying that I am kind.. You are so thoughtful yourself that this is a real compliment. xo Smidge
Thanks so much for coming to visit today… I wish you were gathered here with me.. what a feast we’d make, what art would be painted and drawn, what photographs we’d have to mark the occasion!
xoxo Smidge
I was just thinking you must “peek behind the curtain” of so many lives every day… you see people at their best or .. otherwise… Thanks so much!
Too fun.. in Morocco, I think that’s where I’d rather be making this! Thanks for coming by:)
Congratulations on your award! Your posts are always so beautiful, from the words you leave us with to muse over to the pictures that make are tummy’s grumble
BTW, I had to google slanklet…now the question is, which came first? The Slanklet or the Snuggie! lol ~Ruth
Love these posts, they are so much fun! Great learning more about each other.
Mandy
Congratulations dear Barbara, it was so beautiful post again… Thank you, Blessing and Happiness, with my love, nia
It’s lovely to read bit more about you, it’s like piecing a jigsaw together. And the grapefruit? Perfect, just as my mum used to do them – back in the 70s, oh the glamour!! But the taste is still perfect
I agree with John, and with you about John for that matter, that “kind” is definitely a word that shines thorough in your posts and your comments. You have a pervasive Joie de Vie! You also show your creativity in making and 11th question since you didn’t like one of the 10, heh, heh, clever girl!
What a wonderful post to read! And the pictures are incredibly gorgeous. I can imagine why it is so difficult to turn the page and write a new post again as each of your post is a work of art
It is so wonderful learning about other bloggers. Congrats on your award!
My mother is such a grapefruit person.. I have to show her this, I am sure she will want to make it immediately. So I should know if she likes it soon lol. And I am a jeans and white T girl as well
. Great post
Hahaha, so that’s what those are?? Thanks so much, Ruth! My tummy’s always rumbling as well… seems to be a lot of that here on wordpress:)
It is interesting, everyone answers with their own style… and we learn more about each other. It was more fun than I realized:)
Sending blessings and joy back to you, nia!
Well, I think a puzzle is the perfect metaphor for this… the longer we read each other’s blogs the better we get to know individual differences:) Yes, I grew up with these (shhh, was it the 70′s?)
Hahaha, I wondered who would notice that I’d done that! Hilarious, you are the first so you win.. I’m not sure what you win, but you win!!
That is such a thoughtful compliment, thank you so much:) So glad to have found your blog as well!
Thanks so much, Christina, awards always make it so fun!
Aren’t they the best.. it was torture to wear a suit for those few years when working downtown..
I loved reading a bit more about you and honestly felt it all described you perfectly as I’ve gotten to know you. I just made grapefruit halves this past weekend for my daughter and clearly did not use enough sugar as your topping looks like caramelized creme brulee!! Soo yummy!!
Many congratulations! I found your answers very interesting.
Always enjoyable, always beautiful and always totally inspiring. Just keep doing what you’re doing Smidge!
Such a lovely post! I can certainly empathize with verbal skills vs. the written word! I suppose that’s what makes us human – those ghastly faux pas that pop up every now and then!