Smidge’s won! Thanks to everyone who took the time to vote! Thanks to my family who patiently waited for their cold suppers while I cooked, wrote and photographed their food… and for being willing advisers and taste testers in the kitchen { like that’s a tough job! } I haven’t won “one” , but won…
Being just a touch obsessive when I go on holidays.. everything has to be done: desk cleaned off, bills paid, groceries bought, car cleaned out kitchen counter rearranged, so when I get back I have a fresh start… plus I feel worry free while I’m away! ♥ I’m done all the above and more.. recent…
Have a lovely and lively time, Smidge! Your images are divine, as always, and that latte sounds delish. 
Have a fantastic trip Smidge – can’t wait to see the photos! Your site is looking fantastic, I love all of your changes and the pics from today are superb too.
Mandy xo
I am with you about leaving everything in order so we can start fresh after a trip. Have a wonderful time…it sounds like fun.
Happy retreating and this reminds me I need to do my PT exercises that I have woefully been neglecting 
This sounds fabulous. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Apple Pie Syrup for sale…better keep my eyes open!
Great pictures! This latte sounds amazing!
Every time I visit your blog I come away refreshed!!!
Great photos Barb! That yarn looks so nice and soft, makes me want to start knitting something.
I hope you have a gorgeous and refreshing time my friend 
Lovely photos!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Have a fantastic time … and do all the things I would have done and a little more. Very tasteful post again where everything is so delightful. That’s just you, Barbara.
I would love to get the hands on both the Apple Pie Syrup and the White Chocolate Sauce. I really live in a 3rd world country when it’s about stuff like that. Could do with a cup now – freezing and wet – and all messed up after my first Zumba evening since May.
[...] Please go check out this fantastic recipe from Barbara Bamber of ‘Just A Smidgen’ blog….Warm Apple Pie Latte. [...]
Oh, dear..now I have another sinful latte to add to the list (Pumpmkin-Spice and Eggnog). Thanks–really–yum!
Yarn AND Apple Pie Latte? That’s it. I’m moving into your blog, Barb and I’m not leaving What a beautiful post! I am all about lattes and THIS one sounds perfect. Thank you for sharing the recipe! Thank you for the shout out too (hugs!).
I hope you have the best time on your retreat. It sounds like a wonderful thing and I’m really looking forward to hearing about it when you get back. Safe travels! xoxo
Oh heavens! This would make my morning train ride so much better!! Enjoy your girls’ time!
This is one of my favorite drinks at Starbucks!
It looks gorgeous! Have a wonderful time! xxx
This sounds perfectly seasonal. Love it!
Oh my. This is a meal, er, dessert in a glass. Yes please!
I’m exactly like you, Smidge, when it comes to going away. There is nothing worse while on a break than thinking you’re going to return to chaos and mess. It’s so much more relaxing and enjoyable to rest assured all will be well when you walk back into your house. My husband just doesn’t understand this because he grew up in a family where they would go away and not even clean the perishables out of the fridge before they left. My way’s better! Have a lovely break. It sounds like it’s going to be lots of fun xx
Gorgeous, prettier than ever Barb! You need no encouragement to enjoy these days ahead…I’ll just hold the happiest, hearty laughter thoughts of you and friends! xx!
I think I might need to double or triple the amount of espresso (Starbucks lattes are always so darn weak, I have to ask for ~3 or 4 extra shots, just in their small ones!) but this sounds amazing! Where do you find Monin syrups? I’ve looked all over for these and never find them. Had to resort to making my own hazelnut syrup in the end, lol
Have a great time! I have some knee problems too. I am working on building up the muscle around them.
Can we make the apple syrup?
What a lovely cup of coziness and such lovely decorating ideas, too.
Enjoy your time! And try to be gentle to those knees.
We’re still in Paris but I thought I’d drop a quick note anyway (can’t sleep at 4:43am!) I did a quick post the other day, hope you can drop by.
This beverage sounds and looks wonderful but just too rich for my taste. Have a great retreat.
It looks beautiful Smidge! And you changed your layout again I see? Pretty!
WOW! Fascinated me… This is great and creative. Thank you dear Barbara, love, nia
Even more beautiful than your usual posts, Smidge, and isn’t that saying something!
Heading off to Porto today and have to say I’ve been a little sluttish this time. The house is “almost” clean, but then the 22year old boy will be rampaging through in our absence. Know what I’m saying?
Have fun.
I have been looking for a good Fall latte recipe. I’ve tried a few of the Starbucks ones and they are soooo good but a little pricy to have every day. Thanks so much for sharing and have a great girls weekend.
Oh gosh. I would be in so much trouble if Starbucks served that. This looks amazing and a great thing to serve at our bookclub. Thanks for the inspiration. Have a wonderful trip my friend.
Wishing you a wonderful get-away, Barb. May you come back refreshed and well-rested.
Enjoy yourself!
Your latte looks terrific. Enjoy your getaway!
Enjoy your EO retreat. The latte looks amazing and seriously tempting.
Enjoy your time and your few glasses of wine. Will wait for your pictures.
I agree that I like everything in place when we go away…It sounds like a lot of fun enjoy your ‘few’ glasses of wine…Diane
Oh, that latte looks enticing! Just the perfect thing for a crisp fall day.
I’ve been wondering where you were, and just discovered that you somehow, mysteriously, disappeared from my reader. Oh no! I’m set up again to receive your posts and will be catching up over the next few days. Your blog is lovelier than ever!
The warm apple pie latte sounds like a dream! Love the idea of putting yarn balls into tall glass jars. It does make the room look cozy. I’ll keep that in mind! Enjoy your girly retreat! looking forward to your photos!! Take care Barbara!
What a special time! Enjoy! And your photos are beautiful–as always. I love the sound of the warm apple pie latte, and when our weather begins to cool, soon, I hope, this will be a special autumn welcome! Debra
Yummy! looks delicious. have a great time!
Have a safe trip Barbara and thank you for sharing those wonderful pictures!
They are so comforting and cosy
The latte sounds dangerously addective to apple lovers like me
Have a ton of fun!!
Hope you had a super time away! Interesting latte Smidge
Very interesting flavour for a latte, looks so good
Hope you had a wonderful time, Barbara: the latte looks just gorgeous.
What a beautiful latte. I could really go for one in the morning! I just make traditional lattes during the week but will have to bookmark this for the weekend!
Beautiful white pumpkins! And I am SO trying that recipe!
Oh my gosh, this sounds heavenly! So comforting and delicious, and perfect for the seasons changing! I hope you enjoyed your trip!
Mmmmm, I know this post is a month old, but I have apple pie on the brain and this sounds so fantastic.
Cream, white chocolate, espresso and cinnamon in the one recipe. Yes please! Your blog is lovely. Looking forward to having a good read of it later.
Thank you!
♥♥♥ hope is most powerful in the face of uncertain success it is the spark of courage and stoic resolve and belief in the certainty of one’s decisions ♥♥♥ hope searches for answers that make sense of it all and still hope lingers when all, save one, have left the room ♥♥♥ they say the…
Beautiful article Smidge! and as always, the images delicious, miss ya! Hope you and yours are doing wonderful! Can’t wait for the crisp fall air with the smells, sights, and sounds of my most fav time of the year.
Ha ha, you and Rufus will get us all drunk 
Smidge, your blog posts are some of the most beautiful I have seen…your words, the colors, the pics, just beautiful!
That light martini is a real find! I’ll have a double
Sounds yummy and I love the little dishes…so sweet!
Smidge, can’t believe it….take a look at my post today….”hope” you like it….xoxmeryl
I just love your poetry ! And that photo of the elderflower slipper is so nostalgic – perfect (as always !)
i want everything on this page.. everything.. i am overcome with longing and envy.. but no.. (slow down) i am tired and when i am tired unto the bones, i love to come here to sit a while.. everything is so beautiful here.. love love celi
Yes.. I miss ya’ as well.. it’s gotten frantic/busy here with work.. I must get back to visiting everyone. This weekend will likely be my chance! I love fall.. albeit by default when there’s definitely no hope of warm weather, lol!
Now that sounded like a challenge?!
Thanks so very much, jeanne.. I really enjoyed writing this one. I think it was because I finally had some quiet/down time.. that’s when the magic happens for me:D
Haha.. I was a tad light on the gin, wasn’t I? I wondered who’d notice:D
Oh, dear.. I truly have a dish-addiction!! All are mismatched.. I don’t think I’d ever buy a “set” of dishes again.. this is more fun!
That’s so awesome!! Who would have dreamt this happening?? So cool!!
Thanks so much Carolyn:) It was a fun one to write! For some reason WP said I wasn’t following you?? So weird, anyone, I should show up as a follower not.. sometimes this system is so finicky!! At least no one’s become spam lately, lol!
Ahh.. c.. I know your kitchen counters are where I can find some of that “runny honey” I wrote of.. perhaps we should exchange:) I would be a great help, I promise! I’d better start lifting weights to get ready, though:D
I was tired to the bones last night.. and had a fretful sleep. I was so thrilled to finally have a few hours of quiet so I could write this afternoon.. I really miss it when I don’t have those moments.. ☮
Beautiful words and beautiful ice cream – it sounds phenomenal!
What a beautiful post and what a great idea to spread posts around about hope – we all need a dose of hope in our lives. I love how in the last few lines of your beautiful poem there was one little bud defying the arrival of Fall. It’s always lovely to see splashes of summer long after you know it’s been and gone. Are those measuring cups all stacked inside each other? They’re gorgeous. I would love a set like that. And I love the lemon dish for your delicious looking ice cream. And I see it has a lid – so cute! xx
It was so subtle, I loved it (well, still lovin’ it, I have some in the freezer:) I think I liked it before it was fully frozen.. sort of like soft ice cream.. xx
I thought it was a great idea as well.. I couldn’t write it straight away, but when I was ready I was happy to join by writing about hope. I think it’s a switch from awards, although they are lovely to receive as well:) They are stacked.. and I love that they are little flowers.. I have such a love for pretty little things like that, it’s becoming an addiction. Maybe I will be on a “china” hoarders show one day, lol! xx
This is really lovely, Barbara. It really is. The one thing I regularly say out loud is that I LIVE on hope! every day I nourish whatever little spark of hope I can find, and usually I can flame it into something much warmer. I really enjoyed the recipe, too, although I’m not familiar with some of the ingredients. we can just start with the fact that i don’t really know elderflowers! I will enjoy doing a little investigating, and I “hope” I can find what I need! Beautiful all the way around…including the photographs! Debra
If hope is extinguished in one’s mind, one might as well stand at the edge of the river waiting for the boatman to arrive . . .
PS. ‘Refill as required’ – a slightly dangerous statement, methinks !
Hope is so imperative to the everyday, in big or small ways.
And mmm I love St Germain so, yay elderflower cocktails!
Perfectly lovely as always. And enjoyed reading your words. Multi-talented and stellar in all categories. Your blog is consistently beautiful and inspiring. xxoo
Lovely, refreshing and enlightening – not just the ice cream my friend
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
The pictures are really delicious I’m licking the screen hahahaa I also really love your 1/4 cup etc bowls!!!
Hope springs eternal and all that… I love limoncello
What a beautiful post! And yummy recipe
I got a buzz just reading the recipe!
Beautiful poem! You have such a short season up there…
What a lovely poem Barbara! I love coming here, I am always inspired by your words and pictures.
Beautiful poem Barbara. You are such a fabulous poet! I adore those flower measuring cups! So cute! And the recipes sound delish. Take care.
Gorgeous, gorgeous photos, as always. That lemon bowl for the ice cream is absolutely adorable! The martini and ice cream both sound delicious. And of course, lovely poem, thank you for sharing.
Fabulous!
Your post is just what I needed to read today and once again, you’ve lifted my spirits in such a calming way. I can only imagine how creamy, flavorful and light tasting that ice cream must be. It absolutely sounds heavenly.
Everything about this post is magical … powerful in the start with your poem, strong with the drink and with a sweet ending – I drink elderflower cordial every day – not home made, but I love the flavor so much. Can image how wonderful that ice cream is.
That ice cream looks and sounds amazing!! Beautiful words and those measuring cups are adorable!
Loved this post – thanks Barbara!
I love elderflowers – we used them all the time in Denmark. Plus limoncello? Heaven.
I love those measuring cups!
This was such an exquisite post Smidge. Light, lovely, lemony full of sun and hope. Loved your poem. You just … awe me. I love the sounds of the drink (and would dearly love to sit and sip with you…now…right about NOW) and the ice cream looks like one of the best I’ve ever seen. {sigh} xxoo will miss you!
I always look forward to reading and “seeing” your blog! Such beautiful words, gorgeous photos, and delicious recipes. I haven’t ever seen one thing I didn’t like!
Oh, yummy: elderflower is one of my favourite drink. It keeps me company through the winter months: here it is used as a remedy for colds and flu.
Your poem was absolutely beautiful, Barbara.
So happy to be back and reading your lovely prose, Smidge! I had been drooling over many of your creations on FB this last month, but it’s nice to check back in. I honestly have never had anything with elderflower in it, so I’m quite intrigued.
Another wonderful post… I also loved everything in the pictures, particularly the measuring cups, they made me dream of quiet days devoted to baking something very special to loved ones
Simply lovely
This a lovely post. I love everything about it – your poem, the photographs but most of all the sentiments.
Smidge, your poetry is one of my most favorite things. It is SO amazing and uplifting. It just makes everything…every single thing about the day…feel good. I’m so grateful you share it here. I “hope” you keep sharing it
And oh the recipes! THANK YOU! They both sound so good!!
Your photos are dreamy – are you using a filter? Amazing post and, I agree with Sarah, uplifting. xo
Beautiful post – the poetry and the ice-cream
Your talent impresses me every time. Beautiful poetry on a beautiful subject.
I’m glad you took that ice cream machine out.
So beautiful – your poetry, the sentiments and the recipes. Sigh!
Such a beautiful post as always, Smidge! xx
What beautiful writing… I especially loved the reflections on hope and that certain, undefined sadness that settles on those of us who live through the changing seasons. It’s hard for our emotions not to change at the same time, isn’t it… I feel that way; a shift in direction, a loss for a time. The underlying message of hope is so inspiring amidst this change. So glad I read this before heading to bed… thanks for this.
I hope I get to try the drink and soon! It sounds delightful Smidge – so light and sweet and refreshing…. aaaahhhhh that’s better !
That ice cream looks so refreshing
That ice cream just looks amazing. But then again, you always have a way with making food look absolutely beautiful in photos
What a delicious post, Barb, in every sense of the word. Your poetry, the images & imagery, and, of course, the recipes, all set before us on your beautiful new layout. Quite the feast!
Wow. Beautiful writing, gorgeous pics and a good stiff drink to boot. I think this is a most perfect post, Barbara
I loved this one too, it’s one of my favs:D
“Way up yonder past the caution light There’s a little country home with a porch outside You gotta stop in and ask Miss Bell for some of her sweet tea..” ♥ “Sittin’ right there on her front porch swing she’ll fetch you a jar of her Sweet Iced Tea and you’ll think “This could be love..”…
Swooning! You’ve got a couple of my fave things going on here – sweet tea in a mason jar (only legit way to drink it), sitting in the back of a truck, and turnip greens! xoxo
What a very pretty dress!
Baking soda’s a new ingredient on me – does it change the taste or make it keep longer?
It’s used a ton in baking for raising things.. but in this instance, it’s used to smooth out the bitterness of tea that’s been brewed so strongly
Hahaha.. check out Billy Currington’s “Good Directions”.. you’ll love that song!!!
Thanks!!
Thanks and sorry, it was in tea as an ingredient that I meant. Very interesting
Perfect way to beat the heat wave that’s been pounding everyone! And now I want to go shopping for a white eyelet summer dress
Gorgeous photos!
Mandy
Baking soda is the first time I have seen it used in a tea. Very interesting. Love that pretty white dress.
Love the photos! I will have to try this recipe with the orange pekoe! Today looks more like a hot chocolate day. Our hot dry weather has been replaced with overcast skies and RAIN! Love it!
I love how you have told a story with this post! And the photograph tells it’s own story. I love iced tea, and I am so lazy that I buy those sachets of instant iced tea powder. *guilty*
My sister-in-law lives in Tennessee. She taught me how to say it proper … it goes somethin’ lack this:
swee taay – “taay” bein’ one of them dangest longest sylbles you ever heared. (very fun to say so I says it ever chance i get. Now, thanks to you, I gots to make me some.) And Smidge, I do love your dress and I can see you ridin’ your bike wearin’ it. I’d very much like to kopy that! xoxoxo
Aieee! Keep that baking soda out of the tea! I’ll bet it got in there because in days gone by someone was using soda to sweeten the container (it works in thermoses that have been used to hold milk). Squeezing the tea bags is what will make your tea bitter, wringing all of the tannins from the powdered tea leaves. Sorry for ranting — I can see that I’m going to have to prepare a post on iced tea soon…. Hint: I use simple syrup and serve it in a pitcher alongside the cold tea — it dissolves better than granulated sugar and each person can sweeten her own glass to her liking.
Yes, this white lace dress hit me too… so beautiful…. Thank you dear Barbara, it was also so interesting post about tea… Love, nia
It’s my daughter’s dress.. cute as a button:)
Thanks xo
It’s found in a few Sweet Tea recipes.. as I said above, to smooth out the tannins, but not always necessary, depending on the tea you use:)
Hot chocolate!! Hard to believe.. from such intense heat to a hot chocolate day! That must be a relief!!
Thank you.. I love the “writing part” of blogging, that’s for sure!! And those sachets.. they are perfectly acceptable I think!!
Waaaayyylll spraaay… I think yaaall have got the raaight accent.. Hahahaha.. I wish I had an accent, the southern drawl is so sweet.. just like you spree:) xoxoxo ps I miss you!!
Nah…not when the real stuff looks so good! And it isn’t even that hard to make!
I just read that our Governor Hickenlooper lifted the fire ban. I tweeted it and Hickenlooper retweeted! Hahaha!
I liked the baking soda addition, check out this wiki link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_tea
As I’m sure you know, baking soda is used often to reduce acidity.. it would soften both the tannins and the lemon used. I actually wrote this recipe down, just as my daughter described it to me.. these are her words… and I suspect she “squeezed” the tea bags in order to be frugal… I assure you she doesn’t “wring” anything (except possibly a few necks). I think there’s more than one recipe for Iced Tea and certainly more than one store-bought version.. and after today, I might just have to make a Long Island Iced Tea, lol! Are you from the South? It would be interesting to see a true “Southern Iced Tea”.. but if you post a recipe, just make sure you call it a “KopyKat” Iced Tea recipe
No, I am most definitely not from the South. I am California born and bred with MidWestern parents (although my mother was born in Canada — Culross, Manitoba).
Great Photos – love ice tea, especially on a hot day:) Happy Monday!
Gorgeous – perfect for this heat! And I love the white lace
The baking soda is an interesting addition, I hadn’t heard of it before. What a lovely dress Miss Katie has one. Stay cool!
Love iced tea – you’ve gotta make it though… none of this “ready made” junk… that stuff is just wrong. Tastes more like a weird juice. You just don’t get the right flavour like you can with the good home-made one!
Oh, boy, does that sound refreshing – and we’ve finally got the weather for it – yay!
Sounds lovely. Now if only summer would arrive here!
I love Lipton iced tea but yours beats it out the door in no time my friend. – absolutely delicious and stunning photography as always
Cheers
CCU
I’ve never heard of the soda addition—very interesting! This Southerner’s Southern grandmother used a lot more sugar. I love the memory of it, but never have the nerve to put in near the amount she did.
That would be so refreshing during the heat of summer. Interesting to add a pinch of baking soda – that’s something new! Hope you’re surviving the hot weather Smidge xx
This is interesting, I’ll check out the explanation on the baking soda. We don’t use it, but we don’t add lemon either. I do like to add mint. Also, we drink ours unsweetened because we drink it like water and we’d be out of sugar in no time. One of the restaurants in town uses simple syrup like Kale Chronicles does. That’s great if you want people to be able to sweeten their own. We’re not Southern, but when Katherine, who has Southern parents, saw me make sun tea, she made me learn to boil water! Her grandma used so much sugar, it wouldn’t dissolve and she added it hot!
Another fun and lovely post! Sounds refreshing for a hot summer day, especially if you’ve been out racing chuckwagons and the like.
I’ve never been a big fan of sweet tea, but Mike loves it. I did try it again recently and I didn’t cringe this time. So there may be home for me yet. Beautiful post as always Smidge.
I never did acquire a taste for tea unless it was loaded with sugar. And I feel the same way about iced coffee. I know, Barb, I’m a finicky guy. I know what I do like, though, and it’s that pretty dress you’re wearing in the photos. When wearing it, I bet you look like Summer personified. How could you not? Even though I may not especially care for it, this post and pictures were a wonderful ode to sweet tea.
Tea is the cure for all ailments in my household ! Interesting tip on the baking soda – I’ll have to give it a try next time, although lately I am preparing tea the other way around where I use water at around 70-80C and let it steep for longer. It brings out a completely different flavour to the tea – especially for green.
You’ve just given me a great addition to a baby shower brunch I’m hosting in August. I think I want the Mason jars, too! I’ve enjoyed reading all the previous comments and we are very particular in our tea tastes, aren’t we? I will give this recipe a hearty try. I love sweet tea, and usually don’t drink it sweet just to avoid the sugar, but give me a special occasion and I’ll be glad to indulge! Beautiful photos! Debra
I know that it’s summer, and I know that the sun should be shining, and if it ever does that here in drippy England than I’m going to make a jug of sun tea. I find the long brewing process of sun tea solves the tannin problem — it’s very smooth.
I never knew of sweet tea until I was working in a restaurant and some people on vacation from Georgia came in and all of them ordered “sweet tea.” I just assumed they meant iced tea so that is what I brought them and they were disgusted. They COULD NOT believe that we didn’t have sweet tea. I have since lived in Texas and become very familiar with it. This sounds delicious!
I could use a whole pitcher of that today to survive our 100 degree F. temps today. This looks so perfectly refreshing! Must have.
I ain’t from the South, but that there iced tea looks like something awwwwwfully good!
I had my first iced tea just recently – made sweet iced Earl Grey. Added mint and gin. It was Royal Tea for the Jubilee – not that we were celebrating, but if one needs a reason…
Girrrrrrl! You read my mind, I know you do I have recently converted from a coffee girl to a tea girl (not for any other reason than I love it more than coffee) and have been collecting different tea ideas. This is just perfect Smidge!! I could hug you for this I’m going for the pekoe tea ASAP! Thank you so much!
I am from the deep south (Alabama), though you’d never know it since I like my tea unsweetened as an adult, but I do believe that sweet tea as we know it traditionally down here is just orange pekoe (Lipton is the tried and true) teabags and boiling hot water, steeped as you said, to which you add your sugar and dissolve it (traditionally a syrup is not used), then cool it a bit at room temp and then pour over ice with maybe some added lemon or mint…or both if you prefer…that’s the way most folks I know made it. I’m intrigued by the use of the baking soda…and in the end, how one takes one’s tea is a very personal choice, I think! I love the second photo with Miss Bell and her mason jar of tea…that’s sweet tea to a “T” in my book.
My ex husband would never drink sweet tea from anything other than a mason jar. I live in Australia now but iced tea is always in the fridge. No mason jars though.
wow, i have never made iced tea, maybe i should! c
Definitely could go for some sweet tea in this heat!
I’d love to sip on this tea while sitting on a big front porch enjoying a warm summer night. Ahhhhh summer.
I bought mason jars out at the lake for margaritas! Thus, the jam jar here at home seemed the most auspicious vessel for her iced tea:D
Aha!! I knew I’d find a real Southern Belle to answer the Iced Tea question that’s been bantered about above! I reckon your orange pekoe and boiling water with sugar sounds about right. Definitely the baking soda and lemon would be extras, if one were to make it in true Southern Style:D My daughter always surprises me with these little drinks.. Without her my “Beverages” section would be quite sparse! Xo Smidge
Ah, Sarah, great minds think alike, you know they do. I would love to see your tea recipes!! I’m always on the search for new beverages that would cool us down. Yes, we have incredibly hot weather now. Really cold.. Then really hot. Crazy, isn’t it??!! xo
We’ve had the same crazy hot weather.. The cold has moved out for good and we are stifling in the heat. This did the trick!
Oh.. A baby shower, just think of the pretty straws you could buy.. Pink and/or blue.. Then tying the jars with little ribbons or string.. Such fun!! We are all particular with tea.. Just as we are with our coffees (insert: grande, non-fat, extra-hot, light foam latte).. And that’s what makes blogging so interesting. I learn so much every time someone comments. I think avoiding sugar would be a good thing. I had a roibus (sp?) iced tea today and it was interesting, but I’m not really sold on that flavor! Xo Smidge
Oh, dear.. We were drippy for ages and suddenly now were positively frying like the rest of the country. I hope you make some sun tea, I’ve been looking for a recipe for that one! xo
Ditto on the baking soda… Interesting. Ive been making loads of ice tea with green, ginger,peppermint and a little honey and lemon.
It’s our summer drink
Not to mention the calories:) I’d like to make this again with mint, it seems to be a popular addition. With the heat we’ve been having I need to keep a sugar-free jug in my fridge at all times for provisions, lol! I would love to see you sun tea.. is it on your blog??
I’m not sure there’s a ‘real’ recipe for sun tea. I just use a quart jar with a tight-fitting lid. Fill it with cold water. Now gently set 4 tea bags into the water, close the cap tightly, and set the jar in the sunshine. Check it for strength and flavour after an hour. I usually leave it in the sun for 2-3 hours so it’s good and strong. Then refrigerate, and serve over lots of ice. Maybe I should do a blog post on it, eh?
Please do:D
I love the photos. Ahhh summer.
Done! Pop over to http://miskcooks.com/2012/07/11/how-to-make-sun-tea/ and tell me what you think.
Thank you nia.. it’s such a pretty dress!
Hahaha.. you’re right.. it’s so processed in a tin!!
We’re so much more aware of our sugar intake these days, sigh, wish I’d been born back then:D
We have been doing fine.. some nights are a bit hot.. but ok nonetheless! xx
Tut, tut.. you don’t know what you’re missing;) Btw.. this is my daughter in the dress.. and she was Summer personified. (I might just have to borrow it today! Shhhh!)
My friend Misky made a Sun Tea today! A Green tea would be lovely!!
Hahaha.. I had a roibus iced tea without the sweetener.. it’s a little tougher to get used to!
Well, gosh darn, we Canadians can do an awfully good Sawthern accent!!
One surely wouldn’t need a reason:D this sounds fabulous!
Oh… green, ginger, peppermint.. I hope you post!! xx
*sigh*
Love ice tea … but it never taste good when I done it – this looks like it would work for me. I have just used hot water, teabags and sugar.
[...] was it, you may ask, that occasioned this rant? On a perfectly lovely blog by a polite Canadian writer who makes beautiful cakes decorated with white roses, festoons her [...]
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
Congrats!!
Smashing creations.
Congratulations Barb! Well deserved too, your blog is spectacular!! Love the Chrissie candles! xx
Congrats!! Your blog is beautiful! I love all the candle decorations. I, too, love doing crafts and sewing. It’s my other huge passion!! Lovely recipe and presentation on everything!
This post is absolutely brimming with awesome tidings!
Congrats on your much deserved wins my friend, honestly you are brilliant! Also congrats on creating such stunning candles
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Congratulations
I saw this post’s title in my inbox and rushed over to see if you’d won. Congratulations on both counts! Yours is a wonderful blog, Barb, and now you’ve got the votes to prove it!
Could I possibly be happier? I could not!!! Could I possibly be more surprised? Anything, absolutely anything, would surprise me more than Smidge’s successes!!! (now, try imaging YOUR face on that book’s cover – WE all have! And it was easy as pie!)
Joy joy joy Smidge!! Beaming from ear to ear!
So happy for you! xxoo
Congratulations Smidge – twice! Unbelievable you took out the prize in both categories. I’m so happy for you as it’s so well deserved. I bet your family is very proud of you. You sound like you’ve been very busy and your book will be such a great family record – what a keepsake! And I love your candles – yes, irregular shaped ones all slightly different do look best in a group. And these would make beautiful Christmas gifts xx
Congratulations! Cool candles too!
Congratulations! You deserve it.
Congratulations! You totally deserve it. Every time I pop in here for a visit I feel like I’m getting the feeling of afternoon tea–pretty, yummy and relaxing. The candle craft is eye candy too!
I’m so happy for you. you are an inspiration to us all. may this award open many doors for you and lead to even greater successes!
Fantastic…congratulations!
That’s amazing Smidge, and well deserved. Congrats!
Congratulations on winning!!!!! That’s fabulous!
The candles look gorgeous. And I think your idea for giving A Year Of Smidge to your family is an absolutely wonderful memento filled with love, which I’m sure they’ll treasure forever. xx
Yippie!! Congrats, lady! So well deserved. Thanks for always inspiring me with your photographs, recipes, and prose.
xox
¡Enhorabuena! (that´s congrats!) So well deserved. And yto still have time to put together a book, show us some crafts and a recipe
You are a seriously inspiring lady!
Hip hip hooray! Smidgey Poo won twice!!!!
I think I’m going to come and spend Christmas in your house. It will be so beautiful. Don’t worry about the family. You can introduce me as a mad aunt and then shut me in a cupboard somewhere. I only want a look!
Many congratulations and thanks for the inspiration.
You definitely have a loyal following that enjoys, appreciates and utilizes what you provide. Hard work though!
I love this candle project. It’s like a simple weeknight recipe that is totally doable but so lovely and sweet.
ps – try a wee pinch of salt in your hot chocolate… you’d be surprised
Congratulations!!
Congratulations! I’m do happy that you won this prestigious award. And then you go and win that really cool cookbook from my friend Barb! Those candles look great; we decided to switch our candles to only beeswax, the paraffin was giving me headaches! We get our beeswax candles from a local business and the guarantee 100% beeswax, the rules in Canada are you need only 10% to declare beeswax on your label!(http://www.canadacandle.com/). If you shop there, tell Brian I sent you!
Hooray! How deserving….
What a beautiful candles dear Barbara, Thank you and congratulations, you deserve. I love you and your amazing blog. Blessing and Happiness, love, nia
Congratulations! I am so happy for your awards – well deserved, I must say.
Congratulations Barbara and very well deserved. It is so obvious from reading your blog that you put in a lot of time, a great deal of effort and a lot of hard work to make Just a Smidgen such a lovely place to visit – it always looks so beautiful. Well done. xxx
Congratulations! Well-deserved award.
Whoo Hoo! Can you hear me hollering with excitement from Washington State?
Congratulations, I am so happy for you Smidge and you absolutely deserve the awards. You truly have a gift and it shows in this beautiful blog of yours!!! The candles are lovely. What a beautiful gift for friends and family.
I just have to say however, if you do decided to print extra copies of your 2012 year in review… I’d love to purchase one.
Congratulations Smidge!! I’m so glad you won
Beautiful post as usual.
G
Congrats – so excited for you:) Love the candles – thanks for sharing! Have a Great One!
Hooray for you! And candles are a favorite Christmas memory–my mom made them every year. maybe I will revisit the tradition.
What a happy post
I love your “A Year of Smidge” idea, very cute. Congrats on your winnings!
Congratulations Barbara that’s wonderful! That’s a really great idea to print out a copy of your recipes for the year. I might do the same. Beautiful candles and what rich looking hot chocolate. I’ll have to save that one for later because it’s way too hot here at the moment!
How fantastic! Congratulations again, and the book is such an exciting idea.
Congratulations, Smidge! x2!! I couldn’t be happier for you…way to go! (Darling candles, too!)
Double congrats Barbara – well deserved! I was Hoping to see a photo of you with that beaver hat as a prize – maybe next year! And the candles are lovely!
Congratulations and very well deserved! Your blog is fantastic!
daisy
I knew you’d win!! I am so jazzed for you congratulations!! Your craft is adorable!
Hot chocolate and crafts! Sounds like an awesome night in!
Terrific: I knew all those votes from Down Under would count double as well
! And thank you for all the wonderful ideas!!
Congratulations, it is well deserved Barbara
Congratulations on your well deserved awards. The candles are gorgeous. The one with the little sparkling bell is divine
Wonderful news, Barb! I’m so happy for you! I’m not at all surprised, to be honest. Your blog posts are both creative and beautiful and always inspiring. What a wonderful gift “A Year of Smidge” is going to be for your family. The cocoa and candles are just another nice touch. Again, Congratulations!! oxo
Yippee, yay! Congratulations Smidge, I never doubted for one second that you would win and no less in both categories – you are a continual inspiration to us all! Your candles are exquisite and make for the most beautiful gifts for any time of the year and for any occasion. Kudos on putting your book together – your family are very lucky!
Mandy xo
Congratulations that’s wonderful !!! Wooo hooo all round ! We all know how wonderful you and your blog are, now maybe some new friend swill too !
And yes please to your winter warmer of hot choccy
Congratulations! Truly well deserved. Your blog is beautiful inside and out. Love the candles; especially beads; classic. And I definitely need to prepare the Mexican hot chocolate; yummy!
Congratulations! You’re so worth it – don’t drink hot chocolate … but if I did – this would be on mine tonight.
Haven’t you got my envelop yer ????!!! Bit worried that it has gone lost.
I’m so happy for you… You truly do deserve both. You have such a gift ! Diane
Hi Smidge, congrats on your award (which is phenomenal recognition) of your hard work indeed. I love a bit of Christmas craft (but as I’m heading overseas) for my Christmas, I’ll have to content myself with your lovely pics.
I’m also a fan of spiced chocolates too, mmm-mm…
Congratulations, winning both awards and Barb’s cookbook prize, yep, buying a lottery may not be a bad idea. Love your candles, you make them look so to make.
No, I didn’t get an envelope? I hope it hasn’t.. I will let you know as soon as I do. What color is it?? xx
Congratulations on both awards!!! That is super awesome!!! Love your candle decorations!
You know you are overly busy when… ….. …… you cannot remember if you already left a comment on your favorite blog! Maybe I did it on Facebook? Oh, well – I say it again: CONGRATULATIONS!
I am always in complete awe of your posts, the beauty, the care, the attention to detail… when I grow up, I want to be just a little bit like you… wait, I am grownup already! OH, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Awwww, congratulations Barb, I’m so happy for you! Well-deserved, to be sure. Ina would be proud of you
I am!
Thank you, too, for the wonderful candle decorations, I’m crazy about these, and they fit perfectly into our house’s decor. Just lovely dear.
I just made a cup of Ina’s Mexican hot chocolate myself, so cheers! And congratulations!
Congratulations! And what a great project to share
Your creativity is mind-blowing!
You’ve been a busy gal, haven’t you? Congratulations on the much-deserved recognition, young lady! And the book sounds like another victory – no matter where it appears…
Well done – knew you’d win!
Bravo! Bravo!
The world needs more of you!!! Thank you for your joyful presence on the blogosphere.
It is white padded! I’m a bit worried, because some has got theirs and some none.
Huge congrats on the double win!
Congratulations!!!! Good tidings, indeed. You totally deserve it, Barbara.
CONGRATULATIONS! WOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO!!!!!
You won bragging rights and it is something you can put on your resume if you venture out to make more than one copy of your book! I would love a copy BTW!
Congratulations, how exciting! Of course you won: your blog is amazing, has fantastic user friendly recipes and crafts, and your writing is beautiful!
Congratulations on not one but two wonderful awards. I can think of no one more deserving than yourself. I love your beautiful idea with the candles!
Well all I can say is that these two awards are just so well deserved…your blog always inspires, uplifts and adds so much beauty to one’s day. I’m enjoying listening to the music while reading and writing here, and am thinking of how you manage to create such a whole experience for us as readers. You are magical, Smidge! Kudos and congrats to you. Happy Holidays! And I love your candles, too.
Oh my Goodness Smidge, seriously, the next time I’m feeling stressed (give me 10 minutes – ;0) – I’m coming right over and clicking on that peaceful music and scanning your calming, lovely craft images that seem a perfect match for the serene feeling of this post… Inhale…. Exhale… ;0). (Congrats again on your well-deserved award!)
Congrats Smidge! I’ve been meaning to comment on this all week!!! You truly deserve it, you must be so happy. Your candles are fabulous by the way. Hope you are enjoying your holiday season
Congratulations Smidge! You really deserve it
Love the candles and you are a star! Well done! Felicitations ! xx
Congratulations Smidge! The awards are so well-deserved!!!!! I can only imagine how busy you have been. And these crafts are too cute and simple. I love them. Congrats!!!
Congratulations!!!
Congratulations Smidge! You are quite the little busy bee. I think your idea to bind a book for your family is a fantastic idea. Your candles are very comforting and will be a nice addition to the holiday flare this year. Take care, BAM
Your photos are always stunning Barb, but I really love this picture of the hot chocolate. I was thinking that I had already written you a note, but I see here that I haven’t. It has been quite a week, so I apologize for the delay — as I really appreciated the second shout-out about the book. So delighted to hear about this well deserved recognition. You make the rest of us Canuck’s proud!
Congratulations Barbara, you totally deserve it!
Love the rustic stars!