This little poem arrived this morning… ♥ Passage by John Brehm In all the woods that day I was the only living thing fretful, exhausted, or unsure. Giant fir and spruce and cedar trees
Monthly Archives: May 2012
most parents cherish memories of our child’s First Day of School ♥ photos are taken to capture the moment, a few tears shed (most often ours) hands kissed and folded shut to keep the kiss from blowing away.. some small hands detached from legs with reassurances that “you will love school” and “wait ’til you…
Oh! Those pearls are so cute…perfect for stuffing dumplings or tarts, like you’ve done! Those lasagna tartlets look like they belong in a restaurant, you know.
Lovely!
Wonderful photos – the kids are brilliant, both very likeness you there on the photos – and I love your bites …. I did bits myself – with duck … http://wp.me/p293Pw-cB – one of my first posts .. so not that exciting .. but brilliant bites. This will go on my file … easy to make too and impressive when being served.
ACK!! Metrics! But this is a great way to do lasagna without going the big pan route. Cool! And welcome back from camp 
Oh these look very special!
I’ve got one in each world… school and occupation. How fortunate you are to live near your big kids. I too, am glad we never fully take off our mothering hats.
Love these mini lasagnes… great for a potluck or in mini muffin tins for hors d’oeuvres. clever.
Gorgeous lasagna bites! They are the perfect golden color, too!
well those are just so perfect, I adore small individual portions of anything and your food is so divine.. i am sure that your kids will never REALLY quite leave home.. love love c
LOVE the mozzarella pearls, just too gorgeous. It i\has been an age sine I last made individual lasagne’s – loving your recipe.
Well spotted on the notifications tab.
Mandy
Oh, there goes my virtual diet again Smidge! Shame on you! LOL! Come on, pass those virtual diet pills please! LOL! Great post and I can see they were absolutely yummy! Thanks for sharing the recipe again. You are one creative chef for sure.
*hugs*
Oh ho ho… what a feast and a treat for the eyes as always Smidge. Truly lovely… I just got a tub of Bocconcini and now I know what to do with it
How yummy!
Oh my dear Barbara, how seems beautiful, I can fly there… Loved it so much. Thank you, and also Thank you for beautiful poetical memories… took me too into the past years… Love, nia
So, if I go out and get myself a proper job again and then send you over my lunchbox, please could you fill it up for me?!
Oh, man, as we sneak up on my oldest’s first day of Kindergarten this fall, I know I’m going to be a disaster – but I am sure I will cherish every tear streaked memory. And you make me so happy to hear that as the years fly by, my boys will still need their mommy – even if it’s for a delicious lunch like this. Good luck to your kiddo’s new job!
I also am very fond of things in small, individual portions – and these lasagna bites are amazing!
great that you get to play Mom so well and for much longer than high school times – with all this cooking, I bet they will never move too far away! 
Look at you breaking out the heart shapes. Very nice. Everything looks delicious as always.
I love the hearts, and the little ones are just bundles of cheesy goodness waiting to be gobbled up. You’re making me hungry!
Loving your post – the lasagna bites look yummy – thanks for sharing! Have a Great Day!
Those are so cute, Smidge! Great post and I absolutely love those little balls of mozzerella! Have a great holiday! Out of interest, does my blog show up in your reader? I think I’m having some subscription problems – is a bit of a pain!
This is such a cute post my friend – although my mummy is still going through the phase
Your pearls and lasagna looks utterly delectable 
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
These look so lovely – oh how I wish you were making my lunch!
Hope you had a great weekend. These look positively sinful, but I like them!
These look fabulous! Such cute but yet delicious little bites
These look scrumptious…will surprise my very picky food douche daughter with them one night soon. She’s home for the summer so I’m back to making more than lunch….
Adorable pictures of your children Barb. I have a first day of school coming up for my youngest in September. She is SO excited about starting Junior Kindergarten! I read this post earlier in the day and I was so inspired by these lasagna bites that I could barely concentrate at work. This is such a creative recipe — nicely done!
How awesome is that! I will have to try to make these soon!
What a beautiful idea and a nice way of portion control. Not sure that would apply to my lasagna loving husband haha
Now that’s a lunch made with love. I think with children it doesn’t matter how old they get, we mothers love to keep mothering. I make lunch for my son who’s at Uni and my daughter who’s in her final year of school. Sure they could do it themselves and sometimes they do but I just love to know they’ve been set off for the day with some love and care. Great post Smidge and these look amazing – especially the heart shaped one! xx
I would love it if someone would make these for my lunch! They look delicious, not to mention pretty.
These look delicious – what a good idea! I hope your “kids” loved them
How delicious, and clever, too. They make a great presentation. I loved the premise of sharing about the milestones of motherhood, Smidge. So much energy and emotion accompanies each stage, and aren’t we glad to still have roles. My children are in their thirties, and I still get to play mom occasionally! And this August my first grandchild enters school…she is ready, and her mom and I are not! Hope band camp was great! But glad you’re back Debra
Looks absolutely delicious – dainty, but satisfying at the same time, which makes a perfect pack-away meal!
The lasagna bites are gorgeous and what a good idea! I’ve made gluten free & dairy free lasagna that was very good (doesn’t sound like it, I know!) and I just found a recipe for gluten free won ton wrappers…I think I might just be able to do this recipe!
My son is almost 20. When I dropped him off for the first day of pre-school he clung to my leg and cried his eyes out. Then, when he moved out after graduating high school to go to college and live with roommates, I felt like doing the same thing to him! But once I got used to the idea of not having him around all the time, I started to notice that he needs me and loves me just as much as he always has. He’s growing into a man and becoming more independent, but it’s nice to know that our kids never forget who their momma is!
Have a lovely day ~ April
I just totally love this recipe Barb! I wish you could make my big girl lunches too. Congrats on the first jobs. And happy to know it doesn’t end. I got all teary with this one.
I’ll trade you my peanut butter and banana sandwich for it!
Yum! Definitely going to make these!
These little lasagna bites look SO delicious! And they have such a beautiful presentation.
What a wonderful mom you are! That is such a clever lunch idea, I might have to steal it
These look delicious, Smidge! Can they be eaten cold or do they need to be zapped!
What beautiful little hors d’œuvres Barbara. I just got back from a trip to NYC too…still catching up.
Either way:)
Sent from my iPhone
Lucky you! NY is a mush more exciting destination than mine! I have 450 emails!! Aaahhhh!
Sent from my iPhone
Oh these look wonderful! I love making bite sized food with wonton wrappers. You should try pizza bites too, they are great for parties
You’re such a good mum, Smidge! And doesn’t it all go past so quickly? Suddenly they’re all grown up…sigh..
They look beautiful and tasty!
I know what you mean; the work never ends, but is one we make delighted
You find the best things to make and eat Smidge! You’re my kind of girl these look so good! Sound good too!
Oh wow, I just LOVE the look and idea of this…brilliant! Delicious and fun to eat, and they’d make awesome appetizers, too. How clever you are!
These would be perfect to serve at a party. I haven’t seen the pearls at our market…hopefully they are coming soon.
I definitely understand the transition from school to work. After college, I found it so odd that I’d never have to take another exam or turn in another essay. No complaints, though! That’s so sweet that you still pack lunches once in a while. These mini lasagnas are adorable and sound SO good. I need those mozzarella pearls!
I love those mozzarella pearls! Especially drizzled with good olive oil, mixed in with roasted tomatoes, and a little bit of fresh basil. Oh, and freshly ground pepper. Love those lasagna bites too…great appetizer!
I love lasagna now but you just took it to a whole different level Barb lol. Yeah, you totally went there lol. Love it and definitely missed this place
I’d not seen lasagna bites before, Barb, and these look fantastic! Using wonton wrappers for the base is really clever. When I have people for dinner, I always serve a primo piatto of pasta. My friends all like my lasagna but I don’t dare serve it because it is just too filling a dish. These bites, though, are the perfect solution. My friends can enjoy a “bite” or two without spoiling their dinner. You’re a genius, Barb!
Martha who?
What a perfect party food! So gorgeous and cocktail-y but totally comfort food at its finest. You always make everything look magazine cover worthy Smidge. I don’t know HOW you do it.
How cute are these little bites!? They would make the perfect finger food for parties!
You’re a lovely mum:) it’s funny we all remember that first day of school but that first day of work was just as terrifying! These look amazing delish.
What you only made 12???? What were you thinking? With your hungry teenage boys? I hope you were able to fend off one at least for yourself! Take care, BAM
beautiful – I bought a packet of WonTon wrappers knowing that I wanted to buy them, but without a definite recipe in mind. Perfect
And your kids, well they are are so lucky to have you, wish them good luck in their new working lives
Juggling work and school runs, preparing meals and lunch box — that’s my current status now but thanks for pointing out that that will pass too but maybe by that time, I’ll be looking with much longing to these days.
Those are wonderful looking lasagna bites. Perfect for cocktail parties too.
Those cute are those mozzarella pearls ?! And great idea on the wonton skins. Beats faffing about with filo pastry
I probably shouldn’t even visit your blog when I’m on day one of the post-vacation dietary detox (aka ‘stop eating so constantly and so much and such naughty stuff!!!’), but I can’t resist finally getting back over here. As usual, you’ve hooked me with the gorgeous and delicious sounding goodness of your cookery. Love it! I’m something of a lasagna-holic, among my many other fanatical loves, so this’ll go on my list for post-detox!
xoxo
Kathryn
[...] When tired and famished after a long day’s expedition, improvisation of a loved recipe can be a quick solution. You may have tried my Roasted Asparagus Tart.. as well, Nature’s Fare Markets had luscious heirloom tomatoes on offer. Of course, I was delighted to see they also carry the tiny Buffalo Mozzarella Pearls (used in this Lasagna Bites recipe)! [...]
You just made lasagna bites in muffin pan, what a brilliant idea ! Those mozzarella pearls are cute!
I’m so happy to see you! xoxoxo I thought we wouldn’t make a big dinner tonight since it’s just the two of us… ♥ Maybe we’ll just snack come… stand here next to me while I unpack these paper bags. Let’s spread everything out on the counter, and see what we’ve got to work with….
Absolutely wonderful! I want to eat this every day please.
Honey, we need some Blue Cheese!
Never forget the wine! This is a great post, made me feel right at home.
Why thank you so much! I don’t even like tomatoes, but this looks divine!
I think burrata is still the “it” cheese. Would loved to have been there tasting all your goodies.
I would never think of doing that! Piling everything on top of a crosini looks Delish or my new word “hideous!” = awesome! Hahaha! I am going to try that this weekend. Thanks Barbara!
Great conversation and great food!
I love grey sea salt and pink peppercorns! Of course, what you sprinkled it on it AMAZING and it’s a good thing you didn’t forget the wine.
Absolutely delightful Smidge. Beautiful from beginning to end. Close call on nearly forgetting the wine though…
Mandy
This …. is me – in the summer. Thank you so much – baked my own loaf yesterday with pear and walnuts in – should try it. Stunning bread. http://wp.me/p293Pw-2u8 – Stunning photo again, brilliant … so now we are printing out – brilliant set up – that you provide printable recipes. So thankful *smile
Everything looks delicious! I have to try this avocado oil
I wish I had been there…I´d happily have spooned, and drizzled and taken things out of wrappers for you! That cheese looks amazing…we haven´t got it here 
As we used to say just after we got married, ‘c’est bon, merveilleuse,incroyable!’ That was about the food, and your food!
Oh my goodness! Delicious!
Yum..funny just read about Burata in memoir Blood Bones and Butter by owner of Prune in NYC… I’m also late to trends ..and love the photography..would love to watch you shoot sometime…
So simple and elegant. Nice to show how it can be done. Will put that cheese on my list.
Wow, Smidge! Just plain wow! This was a most inviting and delightful conversation, and such a beautiful spread…Simplicity, yet with an elegance that just calls to inviting friends to sit and enjoy a summer afternoon. I’m so glad I planted more tomato vines than I really thought reasonable. I’m not familiar with the cheese, but I know right where to go to find some Lovely! Debra
Delicious!!!
I can eat this everyday…
Really nice read…
This sure looks pretty.
I adore roasting tomatoes. Wonderful photos and crostini ideas – they look very cozy, if that makes sense, and absolutely delectable!
What a beautiful story, Smidge. And thank you for showing the Burrata, I’ve been seeing it on menus and wondered what it was. I’m definitely ordering it in NYC this weekend!
That menu is exactly what I would want when I’m snacking with a friend. How could you possibly forget the wine ?
You are amazing! This all looks absolutely divine!
So pretty, Smidge! I’ve never had avocado oil – I want! Roasted tomatoes are pretty much the best things ever
I can always count on you to tickle my love for words… “comestibles” is a new for me in English, in my native language we do have “comestiveis” – goes to show how it all falls in a nice place.
having never heard it before, I know that I created it in my mind, and almost spoke it in that funny way that foreigners play with a new language without meaning to do so.
words aside, this whole series of pictures got me drooling, and I had lunch not too long ago. but I didn’t eat anything remotely like what you showed us here
Very lovely. Your pictures are amazing. Those tomatoes are stunning.
Oh Smidge, I’d love to come and eat with you. You make it seem so easy.
This looks beautiful my friend – I love the post layout and could actually imagine the conversation in a kitchen
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I’d go shopping let alone help you unpack if this is what is on the menu And hmmm Blue D’Auvergne, you know since I came back from France I haven’t touched any cheese other than parmesan on my pasta. Withdrawl symptoms just kicked in!!
Your place is the place to eat – love the Mama and Baby Cheese – thanks for sharing! Have a Great Day:)
Goodness, you’ve made me so hungry! Love every flavour! The burrata is a great find, isn’t it? The Italians around here cook their pasta with red sauce, then simply open a burrata over the top of it, so the sauce becomes all creamy and cheesy.. xx
Whoever you’re having dinner with is one lucky person! (And I’ve never heard of that cheese, so it shows how behind I am on food trends.)
Roasted cherry tomatoes are one of my favourite things to pop in the oven when I need something quick as accompaniment. I have never heard of the cheese it sounds yummy and it looks very pretty sprinkled with the crushed pink peppercorns and nestling amongst the cherry tomatoes.
These are some of my favorite meals. It’s when creativity truly gets to shine!
Looks delicious!! I love crostini: D Pear walnut loaf sounds great.
I need to keep this one away from the Mrs – she’d love it! But I can’t do pretty things like this I’m all meat and potatoes….
Wow… sooooo beautifulllllllll…. Thank you, dear Barbara, love, nia
That’s sinfully pretty!
This looks like a wonderfully romantic meal for two! I love it. And a great summer on the patio meal.
Oh, so beautiful. I want to come for a visit! This is just the best way to eat with friends .. .preparing simple, fresh, beautiful food together and enjoying it in style. Lovely!
*swoon* I want to come to your house!
I think my invitation got lost! I could devour this divine meal
Wow, I became so hungry reading through this post! This is perfect on our (finally) hot spring days here.
Gorgeous! What a wonderful post and photos to go with it… the next time have someone at hand with the corkscrew and wine on the ready Truly lovely
If I ask nicely, and promise to behave, may I PLEASE come to THAT party Smidge? I would do many a task for some of that Burrata cheese, roasted tomatoes and OH MY that Crostini. Yessiree…what I would do for those. Dreaming….what a gorgeous, fabulous, mouth watering post.
Ohh my gosh, this looks divine..DI-VINE! YUM! That cheese..ohhh that cheese.
Lovely food, my favorite way to dine. Thanks for the invitations!
Beautiful, delicious, delightful, marvelous–and your cookery is, too!
xoxo
Beautiful – loving the look of those tomatoes and cheese especially… sounds absolutely amazing!
There’s nothing about your post that I didn’t like. Yum!
That is too funny! I was planning to do a post on Burrata cheese because I hadn’t seen anyone mention it before. We had it at a barbeque last weekend and it is SO good. I love the way it oozes out of the ball so easily. Your pictures are beautiful and I particularly lke the spontaneity of your cooking with a good friend.
Beautiful!! I am seeing a lot of cheese!! Marvellous!! Mama cheese and baby cheese? That’s so cute!! Oh and that bakery looks lovely! Calgary eh? I’ll remember it when I drive eastwards some day!
I’d love to be your dinner companion. This looks like a perfect light dish for the summer. Don’t forget the white wine
[...] Now before this year, I had not heard of burrata cheese, but then I saw it on Barbara Banters Just a Smidgin site and was intrigued. When I saw it on this menu I had to try it. Reader alert, OMG!!! This is [...]
foraging this place i trek parallels the spring run-off, churning to my left, its rumble demands and unsettles
I love the salad server. Is it a star fish on the handle? Lovely! And I read John’s post on dandelion leaves too. I’m not sure we can buy them here. I’ve certainly neither tried nor seen them. I do love mangoes in salads though and yes, they are great with a bit of chilli. And I make mine with avocado so we avocado oil in the dressing our salads are fairly similar! Love the images of spring and I hope the Farmer’s Market opens soon xx
This looks like a great salad. I know I need to add a lot more green things to my diet and this looks like a great way. Honestly, I used to think that fruit in salad was crazy (well… before I actually started eating salads with fruit in them), but I’ll admit I’m converted now. The mango in this salad looks seriously mouth-watering!
This post is a wonderful little vacation for the reader. I’m a big fan of your lovely, descriptive prose Barb. I get lost in wherever you’re writing about and I love it. The photos are beautiful too. Your dandelion greens salad sounds so refreshing! Thank you for sharing that!
This salad looks stunning my friend – fresh and green just like your beautiful poem and lovely photography – you keep me in touch with nature
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
That salad looks good! I know my friend Alain would love it.
What a beautiful escape, despite the rain. I love the idea of foraging – what a great way to be mindful about what you eat and cook! Thank you for this lvoely post.
The quality of these photographs is outstanding Smidge. Such delicate blooms. I love it (greens too!)
I had no idea one could eat dandelion leaves… I’d always been told they weren’t edible as a kid, but this is the second time I’ve seen someone use them recently… I’m really curious as to the flavour. I wonder where I can get some good, fresh greens from which haven’t been “sprinkled” by the plethora of dogs which are taken for walks in the forest next to my house! Looks delicious anyway – well worth a try
I need to get down to our olives and pick me some dandelion leaves! I love your poem, so vivid, and the photos are stunning. Thank you!
Beautiful photographs and writing… Great post. Thank you dear Barbara, with my love, nia
Dandelion greens are to big now over here for using in the salad … can see that the spring has arrived over there – love the “forget me not” – what a delicious little flower.
You’re a very talent woman in many ways … poem, cakes, salads, photography- stunning photos. Will try this salad – use baby spinach instead.
Sounds like a terrific long weekend, even though it rained. I agree that nostalgia can be a source of great inspiration. Love the flower pictures from the cabin.
I too took a break from the kitchen all last weekend. It was a nice respite as we party hopped, but nothing so tranquil as your walk or nutritious as your salad. Lovely.
Beautiful photos, Smidge, and wow, that salad! I love it. And the addition of mango just brings it all together.
Wonderful post Smidge. Fabulous photos. It is always a treat to visit your blog.
Regards Florence x
It is indeed lovely to get away a little bit; sorry that your weather isn’t quite a spring-like. We had amazing weather at our cabin up north, in fact, it was warmer up there than in Toronto! I even had a dip in the lake.
What a lovely salad, so fresh.
Well, for one thing, thanks to the rain there are loads of dandelions in the garden…. Brilliant post!
I will have to remember not to put “Weed be gone” on them! I will have to try them some time! Beautiful photos and poem!
Like my mom said many times over growing up; eat your greens. Beautiful post – thanks for sharing:) Have a Great Day!
Beautiful words and gorgeous photographs! But of course I’m not surprised, your blog is always amazing and awe-inspiring! Your salad looks wonderful. Our farmer’s markets have just opened but I didn’t bother to go last weekend because I thought…what could they possibly be selling? We’re still in the beginnings of our spring, but like you, I certainly look forward to fresh greens!
Lovely poem. Glad to hear you had a lovely few days respite – shame about the mixed weather.
This post was a pleasure to read, Barb. Your photographs of Spring’s blossoms were beautiful, each prettier than the one before. I’ll be heading back to Michigan in a couple days where, with luck, I’ll go foraging for enough dandelions for a salad for my Zia. I hope it’s not too late for picking. I do wish I could find some to buy. The only ones I ever see are quite large and not at all tender. Now, we may enjoy our dandelion salad but you’ve taken it to an entirely different level. It sounds delicious!
luv it! brings out my artistic side!
I’m a bit jealous Smidge. . . There is no way I could go foraging where I am currently. Do you get morels near you? That is the one think I really wanted to do while I lived in Michigan and just didn’t find time for (seriously, why did I spend all of that time studying?!). Apparently morels are everywhere after a summer rain in Michigan.
You are so fortunate to find dandelions just through foraging.. I’ve found a spot here where wild asparagus grows, supposedly, so I’m going to have to sneak out at night with my flashlight;) My dandelions were large, not tender.. And it was torture walking my dog past those that looked yummy but likely laced with pesticide. Take care!! Smidge
Hahaha.. My dog was happily “watering” the dandelions on our walk today. I had to resort to a grocers.. As even our yards feel unsafe these days… They were surprisingly pleasant. I tried blanching some as suggested in a recipe, but that just turned them to a soggy mess.. I think just a quick cooking in the wok was the best way to make a warm salad. Cheers, Smidge
Terrific salad and I so agree with you about food memories.
I know nostalgia spurs me on at least weekly in the kitchen. This sounds wonderful and refreshing.
We’ve been lashed with rain too Smidge after being seduced by the sun. Heartless Spring! You’ve used a few ingredients I’m not familiar with, but know enough of them (and know YOU well enough) to know this salad will be brilliantly good!! xoxox
Love the white flowers with the red flower background.
I’m glad you enjoyed this, today, Sarah:) I feel the same way when I visit your blog:) xoxo
Baby spinach will work for sure! Thanks for all of your compliments!
Oh.. our lake.. would have been brrrr!! Lucky you!
Hahahaha
I know, you’re right.. but I thought.. maybe a few little greens:) Or even some crafts.. but I got nothin’! Soon.. our blogs will be just overflowing with our haul from the market, eh?
I don’t know about morels.. I’d have to look that one up, now wouldn’t truffles be just awesome, lol, but only in France…
I think you’ve had your fair share of rain, spree.. that’s just not fair!! If spring gets here first, you should come stay here.. and use my kitchen:)
ps it hailed today:(
I love using dandelion greens in salads. Your salad looks delicious, thanks for sharing it with the Hearth and Soul Hop.
BTW, I didn’t see a link back to the Hearth and Soul Hop. Please add a link back to one of the hosts.
I am not sure I can find dandelions here but I love the idea of this salad and that serving spoon is just beautiful
That trail looks gorgeous! I would lovee to go there. Ataulfo mangos are so good. I just tried one for the first time about a month ago. This salad sounds delicious!
I would love to go foraging but we don’t have many edible wild plants where we live. The salad sounds delicious
I would just love to forage anywhere even close to where you took me today! Lovely–so inviting and restful. I just enjoyed it as a little mental break, Smidge! The salad sounds devine. I love avocado oil, and don’t use it often! I seem to forget about it…and I’m not familiar with macha rosettes or atalfo mango, but I’ll do a little local homework. I could live on salads like this…I really could! Debra
Such a lovely post….beautiful photos, beautiful writing, beautiful food…love this! Really wish I had that salad for lunch today. xx
I love your photos of your mother’s garden! You have inspired me to try taking some of my own when we head to my parent’s lakeside cottage this weekend. Like you, I usually spend time helping them in the garden and setting up the lawn furniture this time of year. I enjoy the camaraderie as well. It’s wonderful to work together in the sunshine (or the rain).
Oh my goodness, Smidge. From the poetry to the photos of those gorgeous flowers to that amazing sounding salad (I, too, hold treasured memories of mango, lime and chile from Mexico)…I’m inspired.
Sounds so fresh and tasty, Smidge. Sorry your market wasn’t open yet, but soon, right? And to spend time at the cabin gardening sounds heavenly to me. The flowers you show are gorgeous!
Please do! I never tire of looking at flower photos.. I live vicariously until my own garden gets done. I’ve been tempted to plant.. but we had torrential hail yesterday!! Where is your cottage??
I hope it’s soon.. we have one in Calgary, but it’s just not the same…
Your walk took me back to my French Alpine walks, particularly around the time of the melt – your words “my heels, crushing pestles on the pine ” were music to my ears. Thank you!
And to go foraging, how beautiful, I’ve only just learnt about Ramps from John’s blog. and your salad – YES please, my problem here is in finding ripe mangoes, the shops sell mangoes but so often they are un ripe or never ripen. Humph, I WILL find them as this sounds like a perfect pairing – sweet mango and crunchy tangy greens.
Ah, now you’ve answered a query of mine, Smidge: a French foodie indicated that dandelion leaves were edible and I couldn’t quite believe it. But a salad! I must try it!
Wonderful pictures! I love the forget me nots – and the colors! My grandma used to make dandylion salads…I’ve never eaten them, though!
I love the idea of foraging! Would be handy to have the tips on what to pick and what not to, I’d be the person who’d pick the poisonous mushrooms otherwise haha. Stunning pictures as always Smidge, thanks for taking us on your vacation!
Plymouth, Massachusetts. Many swans swam around our cove while I was there (about 9), but they wouldn’t let me get close enough to take a good picture. Because of the northern climate, the garden wasn’t in full swing yet, but mom’s peonies looked lovely, and she has so many pretty vignettes inside the house. I’m still ruminating about what to say (along with the photos). I plan to post a new entry later this week.
sometimes you just want to… toss the kitchen sponge …give up the ghost …jump ship …throw in the tea towel ♥ “mother” nature has been toying with us again (what kind of “mother” does that?) some suspiciously white-colored rain fell yesterday all of my friends expected that I would be putting a positive spin on it…
Just the name ‘strawberry zinger’ immediately freshens me up!
Well I hope that did the trick, Smidge – it sure looks like it could. We finally just took the snow tires off our car yesterday, hoping we didn’t jinx ourselves. Sending s—- sunshine your way.
Looks pretty but potent
It’s Happy Hour somewhere! Looks yummy!
Just in time for brunch!
Are you serious? You had the “s” word yesterday? I would murder myself if that happened now. Bringer on the zinger.
I used to try and comment on all the comments people left me, but yes it just got to be too much. Now anyone that comments on a post of mine gets a comment in return! It is much nicer. Plus, half the time I never see replies to my comments so I assume most people don’t see my replies either.
I feel your pain, I live in the rainy state of Washington, and the rain, sun, cloud, wind mixture never quits. So I just take the sunny days I can! I’ll have to pull this recipe out next time it gets cloudy..(Oh look..it’s cloudy right now)..;)
Strawberry drinks must be in the air. I love it! These look delicious. And I can’t believe you had the “s” word again. I remember getting it in May once in Minnesota too. I wanted to take my hair dryer out to the lawn. And I don’t blame you for not responding to all of your comments. I’ve slowed on that as well. Like you I read every one of them, and love them all, but also like reading and commenting everywhere else. Cheers Smidge! Have a royal weekend.
Yes. the Queen Mother’s Lemon Meringue Rose Petal Hat and a Strawberry Zinger! If THAT doesn’t bring on Spring, what hope is there left us?? xoxo s(pree)
Tis the season for lovely drinks
Love this post…good to know that we’ re not alone in our frustration..thanks Smidge gives me an idea for a upcoming topic…xox
I can almost understand you dear Barbara… Just feel happy and get enjoy what you want to do… Have a nice weekend, Love, nia
I’m so sorry Mother Nature is being a poopy head for you I am, however, VERY grateful for the Strawberry Zingers recipe!! They sound so refreshing, wonderful and will make a perfect little escape from a hectic day Thanks!
I hope you get to escape Barb, you deserve a break! Enjoy!
This is something for my balcony this summer … you’re welcome over.
Weather frustrations are unbeatable… No I lie this delicious drink would ward off any unwanted stress no doubt
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
That looks beautiful, smidge. I’m feeling the stress of replying to all my comments, but I shall persevere! I enjoy it really. I totally understand though!
But it won’t mean I never reply;)
Sent from my iPhone
Yay! I’m glad, it’s always good to hear from you!
I cannot believe you poor people had to face the “S” word again! I hope you had more than a couple of those zingers. And if the “S” word appears again, I say forego the zingers and start throwing back shots of tequila.
I know what you mean about replying to all of the comments, Barb. It has become very time-consuming and, with Summer coming, I just don’t have the time. I need to make some changes, too.
May that be the last of the “S” word you see until December! (Or may your local liquor store run a special on tequila.)
There’s ice in those drinks and you are drinking them in the blustering wind? They look good for a summer day.
I think I will reply to many.. just not all.. and my priority will be to visit Commenter’s posts first:) Yes.. summer is coming.. I can say that “S” word!
I know… When will it be Sss… I can’t say that word now..
I could do with a Strawberry zinger right now. No s— here but it’s raining hard. I hope not replying to every comment makes blogging easier. Take care. xo
Hic, take me with you!
I think it will.. I’ll still reply when I can:)
Sure!
Hahaha.. yes, she’s a poopy head!! I hope I escape as well… Have a great weekend!
I’m looking forward to reading it:)
I’ve not seen other strawberry drinks.. but I think it stands to reason with their being in season and all.. I’d love to see some other ideas:)
Cloudy here too.. and chilly.. We’ll both have to pull this one out today!
We took ours off a while back.. maybe that’s what did it!!
I have to say, I don’t often reply to comments but I do always visit the blogs that leave the comments! I find that I’m rarely notified if someone replies to one of my comments anyway. Perhaps that’s something I need to sort out but I’ll (as usual) leave that for another day. Sorry to hear the ‘s’ word so late in the spring. By sharp contrast, we have had the most wonderful May. We’ve had no rain which is so welcome because we’ve had so much of it and it’s been relentless and all houses here in Sydney are filled with mould from all the damp – we’re not used to it. As well as no rain this month we’ve had beautiful days of clear blue skies, not a breath of wind and warm temps. I think yesterday was 25C. And we sure are making the most of it because any day now, things will turn. And I’m sure they will for you too xx
I definitely have to pin this one. Great drink! And very spr… summery!
These look like great zingers!
This is a great drink to have up my sleeve (so to speak, that would be messy if I were being literal) for when I too have a strawberry zinger kind of day! My friend who lives in Calgary says they have two seasons: winter and July. And when we were out there in July one year, guess what, there was snow! On the other hand, those lovely Chinooks bring blessedly mild days in the midst of winter, and that’s a gift! (I know, I know, easy for me to say from here in the subtropics of Ontario)
Lover of the Strawberry – thanks for sharing! Have a Great Weekend:)
Cheers and drink up. You deserve it with the S appearing in mid May. UGH.
I know what you mean about replying to comments. I am the worst at it. I appreciate people taking time to write and I do go and read their posts and try to leave a comment.
I think that is the best exchange. I enjoy being part of the blogging community and want to be a contributor. Your posts are stellar and I appreciate your making time to look at Cardboard me, too. Thanks Barb. I am glad to follow you.
How is it possible that Spring has not sprung? I wish you a very long summer then! Supposedly we should have had our second snow fall yesterday but I’ve not yet looked at the reports
I’m tempted to say the flavor doesn’t matter…that color! Wow! I just sent this one right to my Pinterest board! Debra
Beastly weather here so yeah I could use some of Katie’s Zinger … yup the temperature hit 40 the other day and I’m talking Celsius. Ohhh I can’t wait for the rains.
You deserved that zinger for sure. And wise decision, no need to reply to all comments, we won´t be offended! have a wonderful weekend with no “s”
Oh, Smidge, sympathies: we are having just the same experience over here in the UK. I think a scarlet zinger is the perfect response. We shall overcome
Um, yum! I will be saving this for future reference!
Give me that Zinger now! Fabulous.
That looks like just the thing to brighten up a dreary day
Oh, good… I thought you were just ignoring me..
Completely understandable, you have so many comments, I often wondered how could you keep up, it’s like a part-time job!
I don’t get too many comments, so I tend to answer each one, or give a group answer, but if one day I get to be a popular blogger, I will have to reconsider
Hahaha:)
Sent from my iPhone
Hahaha! Love this post Smidge! Oh I know those moments well and I do think this cocktail is the perfect fix! I’m adding this one to my cocktail recipe repertoire.
I do see some replies on our platform so this helps with carrying on a conversation which I love. I appreciate and read everyone’s comments.. Wow, that’s a lot of rain, and mould is a bad word around these parts.. it can be a huge issue when selling a house. I hope you dry out steadily for a few days now!!
Hahaha.. the things I “have up my sleeve” would be shocking, I think! Your friend has it right.. two seasons. Usually two temperatures, cold and less cold:) I love our Chinooks, they were our spring this year, I think!
You have so many pingbacks and comments, I don’t know how you could keep up? I agree with exchanging comment for comment.. and I appreciate your lovely compliments! I, too, enjoy your beautiful photography posts!
So far.. no “s” xo
Thanks, Karista:) My weekend has been shaping up so much better.. Hope you’ve been enjoying yours!! xo Smidge
Good job deciding that you don’t have to respond to everyone – you and I are both realizing that we can’t be and do everything!!!!! And that is OKAY. Sorry about the “s” word…Shoot!! We’ve been safe from that…but I have yet to plant any flowers – hopefully this week!!!
You’re right.. it is OKAY!!
I think it’s amazing that you tried to respond to everyone in the first place – that’s dedication considering you have so many readers! Those drinks look incredible. I love making fancy cocktails at home and I do love me some tequila…!
Now that is a super sipper. It would certainly relax me . I love the color. Have a great day. Blessings…Mary
OK, I’ll try not rubbing your nose in it, too much. We were at the cottage and the temperatures soared to almost 30C. I even went into the lake for a quick dip! That adult beverage sure looks tasty. We are driving back now and hoping it won’t take much longer than the normal 3.5 hours. It’s still incredibly warm out.
That looks and sounds yummy. I’ll trade you my hot weather for some of your cooler stuff.
Strawberries and lime — yum! This looks so good. We have had rain for the last two days after glorious sun for a long time. It’s hard to remember this is ALL a part of spring. Sending love!
I will be making this for sure during the summer. It has to come eventually. It was nice here in Toronto over the weekend — first time I haven’t needed a sweater in the evenings.
I am printing this recipe out right now, Smidge. I have a feeling it will come in handy when I’m moving my life clear across the country and stuck in our travel trailer for a couple of weeks with two men, two dogs, and a cat.
Hang in there, you’ll be complaining about the heat soon! (But it’s a dry heat …..) Actually, I love the air in Alberta. It’s always hard to come back to the humidity here in Ontari-ari-ario.
Let’s see.. heat.. then mosquitos.. I like the cold, I like the cold..
I was just chased into the house by mosquitos on the verandah. The party has begun!
Yes it definitely has, then!!
As I am dreadfully allergic to the main ingredient there shall have to be some mad scientist stuff going on to alter the recipe. The things we do for science
Well, I stuck a straw to the computer screen, tried to take a sip…but NOTHING happened…is it not responding either ? Tee hee!
Hahahaha!!
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Beautiful poem, and arrived in perfect timing for me….
thank you…
Lovely! Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your day.
Beautiful poem Smidge! Thanks for sharing!
Good for you… We MUST unplug now and again. The blogging/social media sphere, rewarding and fulfilling at times, can be equally consuming and overwhelming. Not to mention the whole rest of your life! Have a good rest Smidge and see you later
wendy
Wise and peaceful words to start my day. Thanks.
Wonderful poem, Have a nice and enjoyable time dear Barbara, Thank you, love, nia
“it even made a little song”.. beautiful.. c
Enjoy your break Smidge, I look forward to your return.
Mandy xo
Enjoy the break, Smidge! x
Beautiful Smidge! Thank you! And enjoy your break my dear
Take good care m’dear. I’ll look forward to your return.
“A music against the hard edges.” Mmm.
Beautiful poem my friend – I hope you enjoy your week off
Thanks for sharing!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Beautiful – Enjoy Your Break:)
Lovely poem Smidge – don’t be gone too long… we’ll miss you
Dear Barbara – lovely poem. I hope your cup is full soon xo
Smidge, have a good break. That poem is just beautiful.
Sigh…that was lovely. Have a good break!
Hope you have a wonderful break
Enjoy … your break from us !!!! Hopefully your cup will fill up gently and carefully. Wonderful poem and when ever you are ready … we will be here.
Take care barbara! See you soon
Everyone needs a little R&R every now and again. Enjoy your time away, Barb,. We’ll be here for your return.
What lovely words. Enjoy your break – but we’ll all miss you! xx
Beautiful words and boy did I need to hear them today!
Enjoy your break ~ April
No worries, Smidge! Enjoy your break.
Hi Smidge. Beautiful!! Enjoy your break.
Regards Florence x
Just lovely! I needed that. Thank you for posting
Lovely! I hope your wee break was just as beautiful.
A break not only relaxes us…it rejuvenates and inspires us. Enjoy!
Beautiful poem as always – enjoy your break Smidge !
Enjoy your break!
Hope your break is rejuvenating and relaxing!
I have nominated your amazing blog for a Very Inspiring Blogger Award, http://marianne365days.wordpress.com/.
What a beautiful poem, Smidge. I wanted to share with you, though, that I was missing you! I wondered where you were…and believe it or not, your post only “showed up” in my Reader this morning…more than a week after you posted? Hmmmm. But I WAS missing you. Now I know that you need a break, and I hope it is a pause that refreshes! Debra
I hope you’re having a lovely break, Smidge. I’ve been missing you! xxx
I hope you are having a good break Smidge xox
These look amazing! Gorgeous photos and delicious recipe!
What a lovely, comforting poem! Thanks for sharing, my dearest, and I hope a tiny break gives you some of the same solace.
xoxo
Kath