HSF '14 Challenge #9-Black and White

Happy Mothers' Day!!! In honor of my own dear Mama's favorite item in my Historical Wardrobe-the Caraco Jacket below-I am posting my HSF Challenge #9 entry today :)

Ta-Da! My first ever full Georgian ensemble!!! I've been dreaming of this day since I was 10 years old. If you've been reading my blog for a while (or even a very short time) you've probably guessed that I am a history nerd. You would be correct! I've always loved books and films about history or set in historical times. I read all of the historical American Girl books when I was 8, 9 and 10 but never had much interest in the modern dolls or their stories. What intrigued little McKenna most, poring over the brightly colored catalogues, was the costumes! Felicity's (1774) were my favorite. The gloriously embroidered gowns and aprons, wee hats and fans called to my little heart and, though I didn't know it yet, would set the stage for my historical costuming journey that began several years later. When my Mom and my Grandmom took me by the hand and taught me how to sew.

What I present to you for my favorite HSF challenge so far is a black brocade Caraco Jacket, white Petticoat and Bergére hat decorated in white. As soon as I finished my stays, I wanted to go for something big and significant for my Georgian wardrobe. I already had a chemise, the stays, a fichu and an under-petticoat (for volume) and was ready to grace my unmentionables with a proper ensemble. So, without delay, I turned to Janet Arnolds' "Patterns of Fashion 1: 1660-1860" and selected the Caraco Jacket (it's on page 22, I believe). Out came my gridded cutting mat, swedish tracing paper, a few rulers and a fat pencil. After scaling up the initial pattern from the book, whipping up a toile, doing a fitting (no easy task when it's just you with no mirror) and adjusting the pattern pieces, I was ready to cut out the actual jacket from my fashion fabric. Honestly, it's so worth it! Don't cut into your fashion material until you're absolutely sure that the garmet fits! Toiles are indespensible to any seamstress!!!

In my opinion, the best part of historical sewing is hand-stitching. After doing all the inside seams with my machine, it's nice to find a comfy place with a cup of tea to hand-sew and re-watch favorite shows like "North and South" and "Wives and Daughters". I tacked the box pleats in place, slip-stitched the hem and the neckline and finally tediously whip-stitched 32 individual hooks and eyes over 2 episodes of "The Paradise". I'm definitely going to use this pattern again! And I'm thinking of doing a tutorial with instructions on how to assemble the pattern. What do you think?

Generally, a Caraco is a working woman's coat but making this version out of black brocade turned it into more of a Sunday morning Church service ensemble. It's like my Mother as a garment. Designed to be functional and productive but perfectly beautiful and elegant. My Mama has always placed an emphasis on looking your best, even when it's just your family around to see it. 

 The Bergére is made of an old straw hat I had on hand. I used The Dreamstress' method for turning an old straw hat into a Bergére (see the tutorial HERE). I decorated it with white lace, white paper flowers (found at Michael's on sale) and a white satin ribbon. I have dreamed of having a Bergére of my own since I was very small. I, being the hat connoisseur that I am, think it's the most elegant and tasteful hat design I have come across! It trumps the cloche, in my opinion, and I think very highly of that hat! 

I'm more than pleased with how this jacket turned out and love wearing it! It's such an amazing feeling to have a remnant of history to wear and have on hand. You never know when you'll need a Georgian Caraco Jacket! 

The Facts...

The Challenge: #9-Black and White

Fabric: 3 yds. Black Brocade, 2 yds. White Cotton

Pattern: Janet Arnolds' 1775-85 Caraco Jacket from "Patterns of Fashion 1". No Pattern for Petticoat

Year: 1775-85

Notions: Thread, Hooks and Eyes, Bias Tape

How historically accurate is it?: 90%

Hours to complete: 10-12?

First worn: For Photoshoot 

Total cost: About $15; that was all in the petticoat

Trim Healthy Waffles-Original Recipe

"Are you a fan of delicious flavor?"

~Shawn Spencer

Our family has just discovered the most amazing healthy living book EVER!!! 

Trim Healthy Mama (THM for short) has been such a blessing to our family! Pearl and Serene (2 Christian sisters from Australia) explain how to eat the way God created our bodies to and to have an overall healthy lifestyle. I'll be doing a book review shortly :) 

These are my Trim Healthy Mama Waffles! After a failed attempt to find one online or in the book, I decided to find and alter a Paleo recipe and give it a whirl. I found one HERE and changed almost everything in it to create the most delicious, decadent waffles you've ever tasted!!! For our family of 10, I do 2 double batches of this batter to feed us all but most likely, you won't need as much so I trimmed it down.

Please, feel free to pin this image. Clicking the image opens this page so everyone can make waffles!

The key to fluffy deliciousness is to whip the egg whites till they're stiff and don't slip around in the bowl...almost like meringues...exactly like meringues...they're meringues (just kidding)

These waffles fall into the "S" category because they utelize whole eggs, almond flour and butter. So slather on the buttah, Mama! You may use all almond flour but the combo of almond and flax makes it super fluffy and smooth!!! The kids can put syrup or honey on theirs but for you, Mama, butter and Polaner's All-Fruit Jelly are both acceptable and encouraged. You could even make a blueberry sauce with blueberries, stevia and a dash of salt and vanilla (yum!)

I hope you'll try the recipe and comment on your success and advice! I make these waffles at least once and sometimes twice a week, we love them so much! I hope you enjoy :)

Trim Healthy Waffles {S}

By McKenna Rosen

Makes Approx. 12 Waffles

Ingredients

6 Egg Yolks

6 Egg Whites

1/4 C. Unsweetened Almond Milk

1/2 C. Almond Flour

1/2 C. Flax Flour

1/2 t. Salt

1/4 C. Melted Butter

2 t. Vanilla

2 T. Truvia

1 T. Cinnamon

1 t. Nutmeg

Bacon Grease or Coconut Oil (for greasing the iron)

Optional: 1 C. Blueberries

Instructions
1. Preheat Waffle Iron
2. Whisk Egg Yolks and Milk
3. Add Almond+Flax Flour and Salt. Whisk.
4. Add Melted Butter. Whisk.
5. Add Vanilla, Stevia, Cinnamon and Nutmeg (Optional Blueberries). Whisk.
6. Whisk Egg Whites until they form stiff peaks. (This is best done in a KitchenAid or with a hand-held mixer)

7. Fold Egg Whites into batter in 3 parts.

This is what the batter looks like after the egg whites have been added.

8. Scoop 1/3 c. Batter into preheated, greased iron.
9. Cook until golden-brown and scrumptious! Enjoy!

Help spread the word about my Waffles and, who knows? Maybe Pearl and Serene will start making it for their families!

Tips for Increasing Productivity in Your Home

A few days ago, I posted a question on my Facebook page. It said, "I've been pondering the concept of PRODUCTIVITY and I'm going to be doing a blog post about it. Does anyone have any thoughts on how to increase productivity in the home? One of the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman was that she was extremely productive and did 'not eat the bread of idleness'. What are some practical ways you kick laziness in the proverbial pants?"
I got some incredible answers! The overwhelming response seems to be that lists are the best way to go. It helps you set a goal and keep a clear focus in mind so you don't get distracted. So...

Tip #1: Make and Keep Lists

Dawn L. said, "For me, I have to have a running to do list. I tend to start to do something and then get sidetracked with something else. If I have a list, then I can finish the first task before going on to another one."

Ella C. said, "If you make a list you can see what's going to take longest, what's most important, what can be done first and what you can start and get going while you move on to something else. For instance, putting in a load of laundry, then putting dinner in the crock pot or in the oven to roast, then loading the dishwasher and starting it. All those things are going and don't need your attention, so you can then focus on the next most important thing. Whatever you don't get done today should go on the top of tomorrow's list."

This is a great point! If we're to find ways to be the most productive we can, so as to bring the most glory to God with the time that we are given, this is a great place to start! Make a binder that's dedicated exclusively to lists. Categorize, if you feel so inclined, and make tabs for "Daily", "Weekly", "Monthly", "Sewing", "Grocery", "Music", etc. Whatever your days and weeks are filled with, there's a list for every task and jurisdiction! If you don't get it done today, get it done tomorrow and don't allow yourself to be distracted.
My mom suggests adding to your list things you accomplished that weren't originally written down so you can see on paper that you really are getting things done!

Tip #2: Find Ways to Motivate Yourself

Personally, I am not incredibly self-motivated. I get distracted easily and if the task at hand doesn't suit my fancy, I tend to avoid it. In fact, I procrastinated on this post for almost a week! But, when I am motivated, I'm a powerhouse who gets everything done down to the polishing and waxing! Find your weak spots and counter-attack with a motivator. For example, if you (like me) have a tough time getting out of bed in the morning, do something to entice yourself out; prepare the teapot the night before and turn it on once you're awake or keep a robe by your bed that you can wrap up in it once you're on your feet. Set a spot at the table with your Bible and notebook so you can drink your tea while you're filled with the Word before others are awake! If you clean the kitchen best if there's some upbeat music on, bring the iPod in! 
Or, if you have enjoyable, relaxing things on your list like reading, sewing or writing, don't allow yourself the pleasure until your less savory tasks are completed :) I'm sure there are so many more ways and only you know how you tick, so once you identify where you tend to stumble most, find a way to turn it into an advantage!

Tip #3: Don't Forget the Big Picture!!! 

Felicia B. said, "Agree with all of the above [suggestions for list-making] so I will not repeat. Just want to add that on that list you make sure there is time with kids, spouse, friends and most important God. Which is not typically something you check off but something you learn to weave into all the daily demands. Try not to get too much self-worth out of earthly accomplishments and forget about the eternal ones..." 

Kerri B. said, "I am a big list maker, too. I really try to remember why I'm doing what I'm doing. I'm serving God by doing what He's called me to do. Right now, that's being a full-time wife and mom. So, every load of laundry, every meal, every lesson taught and every toilet scrubbed is serving Him through serving my family. This way of thinking helps me stay focused and just makes doing all these (some unpleasant) things easier. When I'm joyful, I'm more productive. A nice chocolate stash helps, too ;)"

I am so blessed to be surrounded by such wise and godly women! All of these ladies are my friends and I learn so much from them! As we strive to fulfill our calling as God-honoring, faithful daughters, mothers and wives at home, it's imperative that we don't forget the "Big Picture". There will be days where EVERYTHING on our list gets done and days where NOTHING gets done. We can't weep over the little things that get left behind in favor of family. We can't forget that little brothers are more important than clean dishes, Bible time is more important than a sewing project and hugs and cuddles are much more important than vacuuming! So, when we make our lists and motivate ourselves and try to get things done, we can't leave out the most important things. The things that matter. The things that last. 

 ...She looks for wool and flax
And works with her hands in delight.
 She is like merchant ships;
She brings her food from afar.
 She rises also while it is still night
And gives food to her household
And portions to her maidens...
 She girds herself with strength
And makes her arms strong.
 She senses that her gain is good;
Her lamp does not go out at night.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hands grasp the spindle...
 Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.
 She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
27 She looks well to the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness...
 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
 Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 31:13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 30 NASB  

Cheese-less Cheesy Popcorn Recipe

I'm sure that title sounds like an oxymoron, but it's not. This recipe was created by yours truly, a popcorn connoisseur. It works best with "Whirley-Pop" or air popper popcorn; as long as it's homemade. This recipe doesn't call for cheese, but tastes completely cheesy! The secret ingredient is Nutritional Yeast. You can find it at most health-food stores and it's not very expensive at all. This won't work with regular yeast, but there is some magical quality to the stuff that makes your taste buds sigh, "Cheese..." What you're provided is a delicious, buttery, no-nonsense popcorn that is truly addictive! I am NOT exaggerating!

 

Just kidding! I would never let my popcorn spill!

 

Cheese-less Cheesy Popcorn

Makes a double-batch to fill a large bowl

Ingredients

1 Cup Organic Popcorn Kernels

2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil

1/2-1 Cup Butter

1 1/2 Tablespoons Salt

1/2 Cup Nutritional Yeast

An Appetite

 

Method

Make up your popcorn 1/2 cup at a time in either a Whirley-Pop or an air popper. The Coconut Oil is for if you're using a Whirley-Pop or a knock-off Whirley-Pop that ultimately works just as well.

Once the popcorn is all popped and in a large bowl, melt the butter. It's up to you how much to use. 1/2 cup will sparsely butter the popcorn and 1 cup will make your fingers shiny when you pick up a handful. This all depends upon your personal butter preferences. Toss the popcorn with the salt then add the butter. Gently mix that in, using a spatula or your hands. Finally, add the Nutritional Yeast. Mix it up until thoroughly combined. Make sure none of the Yeast falls to the bottom of the bowl. Now might be a good time to say something about the Godly virtue of Self-Control. I promise, it'll be hard to control your portions, so get the family together for a snack or you will end up eating the entire bowl by yourself! But doesn't that look tantalizing?!

 

 



The Care and Keeping of your Stringed Instrument (Applies to Violin, Viola and Cello)

I have been blessed with some wonderful new music students this week so I made up this checklist for the two who are taking Violin. So, I thought it would be a good idea to share it with others. It's a nice checklist for beginners to keep in their case as a reminder because it seems like a lot to do when you first start. If you are a music teacher, feel free to pass this on to your students. And if you're interested, I can email the original printable document to you (it's 2 pages). Just email me at missmckennaray@gmail.com :)

The Care and Keeping of Your Stringed Instrument

Applies to Violin, Viola and Cello

By McKenna

cherishingmyrole.blogspot.com

Playing Preparation

When you're getting ready to play your Stringed Instrument, be sure to follow the steps below to ensure the safety of your instrument. Remember, a Stringed Instrument is delicate and must be taken care of properly so that it doesn't break or crack. Naming your instrument is never frowned upon. Here are a few things to remember.

1. When you get out your case, be careful that you don't bang it around. Place it gently on a flat surface (like a bench or table), lid facing up, then carefully open the case.
2. Take the bow out of its holder and tighten the screw at the end (twist it to the right or away from you) until it's firm but there's still a slight dip in the wooden or carbon-fiber backbone. Don't forget the rosin!
3.  If playing a Viola or a Violin, take it out of its cozy little nest in the case, attach the shoulder-rest to the belly of the body below the chin-rest with the side that dips down on the right*.
4. The final step before you're ready to play is to tune your Stringed Instrument. There are 2 ways to do this**. You can tune your Stringed Instrument to a piano or use an automatic tuner; that's up to you.

Quick Note Regarding Tuning

For Viola and Cello, the tuning pattern is: D-G-C-A, meaning, that's the order in which you tune each string. The order of strings from Left-Right when you're holding it properly is C-G-D-A***, but this is not the order in which you tune the strings...it's weird, I know. You may use the fine-tuners most of the time for tuning; twisting the screw to the left lowers the sound of the string and twisting it to the right makes the sound higher. Very occasionally, you will need to let out your fine-tuners and use the big tuning pegs to do some close tuning.

 

For Violin, the tuning pattern is: A-D-G-E, meaning, that's the order in which you tune each string. The order of strings from Left-Right when you're holding the Stringed Instrument properly is G-D-A-E****, but this is not the order in which you tune the strings...it's weird, I know. You may use the fine-tuners most of the time for tuning; twisting the screw to the left lowers the sound of the string and twisting it to the right makes the sound higher. Very occasionally, you will need to let out your fine-tuners and use the big tuning pegs to do some close tuning.

 

 

 5.  Congratulations! You're all ready to play. Go for it!

*If you're not sure how you should put the shoulder-rest on, just place it on your left shoulder and the side that dips down to your collar bone (the small side) goes on the right of the belly.

**I'm sure there are more ways to tune your Stringed Instrument but those are the two ways I know of. I suppose you could tune by ear if you had perfect pitch!

 

***The notes on the piano, in reference to the strings for Viola is: The first C below Middle-C, the first G below Middle-C, the first D above Middle-C and the first A above Middle-C

The notes on the piano, in reference to the strings for Cello is: Exactly like Viola above, except an octave lower on every note :)

****The notes on the piano, in reference to the strings is: the first G below Middle-C, the first D above Middle-C, the first A above Middle-C and the second E above Middle-C :)

After You're Finished

There are a few things to do after you're finished with the fun of playing your Stringed Instrument. Be sure to follow these steps. They're almost more important than the steps you took before you played. It keeps your Stringed Instrument safe for storing so it doesn't break or crack or sweat or any number of horrible things!

1. After you're finished playing, place your bow somewhere safe and, if playing Viola or Violin, take the shoulder-rest off your belly...I mean, your Stringed Instrument's belly.* Place it either in the top pocket of the case or upside-down in the small part of the nest where the neck of your Stringed Instrument rests; there should be room there.
2. Next, carefully place your Stringed Instrument in its little nest in the case. Just look how cozy it is! Be sure to secure the velcro over the neck so it doesn't slide around.
3. Don't forget to take a soft, dry cloth and clean the rosin residue off the strings. This is important because it keeps your strings clean so they last longer.
4. Finally, loosen the hair on your bow by twisting the screw to the left (or towards you) and put it back in its holder in the lid of your case. Now all that's left is to zip or buckle up your case and store it in a place where it's not too hot or too cold so it stays comfy.
5. Be consistent in your practice! They say "Practice makes perfect." Well, that's not true. As my Mamma puts it, "Perfect practice makes perfect." Put another way, you can always practice without learning anything. Banging your hands around on the piano can count as practice, but not perfect practice :)

*Well, that was embarrassing...

Creating an Atmosphere of Love...Part 2

I know that you've been waiting a long time (Over 2 months!) for the second installment of my Atmosphere of Love series and I thank you for your patience. This is the second time our family has moved this year and, unfortunately, it has taken a toll on my blogging time. But everything has a time, orchestrated by God according to His perfect plan for our lives. It's such a comfort to know that He orders my days and I don't need to worry about anything!!!

 

 

Include and Involve your Siblings

 

Today, I'm just going to take a moment to encourage you to use the power of involving your siblings. I've always found that when I include my brothers and sisters in anything that I'm doing, it strengthens my relationship with them. Even something as simple as washing the dishes can make you the hero of the day! I think we all know this. Your little sister just wants to help you make the bed or switch the laundry. "But it's such a nuisance!" you think with a scoff, "It'll just slow me down. Not that I don't love her, it's just that there's a more efficient way to do things!" Well sure there's a more efficient way to do it, but you've lost an opportunity to be a blessing and to be the soaring hero with the sweet red cape, in the mind of your little sister! So take an extra moment today to be a blessing to your siblings in big and small ways.

 



Creating an Atmosphere of Love...Part 1

I believe, with all my heart, that we as young ladies-in our divine-appointed role as daughters and sisters, help set the tone in our home. My Mamma would say it like this, "Be the thermostat. Not the thermometer." :)

I was reminded of this very thing last night. As I was finishing dinner clean-up, I saw our little ones go into the living room to say their good nights to Mamma and Daddy. My heart overflowed as I saw them stretch out their arms to be lifted in love. There were manly hugs and top-of-the-head kisses for our 9 year old and 6 year old boys and fond caresses and lip-kisses for our little girls who are 7 and 3. Then they came into the kitchen to say their good nights to me. The boys gave me forehead-to-stomach hugs and the girls fairly leapt into my arms! I picked up our 3 year old, Mandee, and covered her face with kisses, encouraging her with, "I'm so proud of you going pee-pee in the potty! You're such a big girl! Sleep tight and be good for Marley." She just grinned from ear-to-ear and planted a kiss on my cheek. I let her out of my arms and watched her skip down the stairs in merry baby delight; reveling in the love that had been bestowed upon her. My heart smiled with my face and I had an overwhelming feeling of gratefulness! Not every girl is blessed with such a family as mine. We say good morning and good night to each other every day. We get to sit down to meals together and clean up together. We cuddle and read books and delight in each other's company. We are earning crowns together, as I have said to myself so many times.

 

I am not saying this to boast. I say this out of a heart truly overflowing! Each of us girls has an opportunity every day to be a blessing to our families. I believe we have a big part in creating an atmosphere of love, joy and peace in our families.

 

"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,

Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones."

Proverbs 16:24

 

Use Your Words for Edification

I like big words. But that's not the only reason I chose to use "edification". Webster's 1828 defines it as:

"A building up, in a moral and religious sense; instruction; improvement of the mind..."

Each one of us young ladies has a unique opportunity in the lives of our siblings. That is, to build them up with our words. A great example is the verse above. It's always wonderful to find out what God thinks about...anything! I love it when I come across a Scripture that throws light on a subject I've been pondering.

I see such a big difference in the response of my siblings simply by changing the tone of my voice! Notice the verse says pleasant words. That invokes, in my mind, a gentle, sweet tone of voice that is pleasurable to listen to. Thinking on that, I see that my tone is not always pleasurable to listen to...
 

Even the way you simply respond to any situation affects their response. Say you just found your little brother Bobby up in that tree Dad said wasn't safe to climb on. If you stiffen up and march up to the foot of the tree and yell up, "Bobby!!! What did Dad tell you about that TREE?! Get down here NOW!" Most likely, Bobby, being a boy, will stick his tongue out at you and attempt to climb higher, just to spite you.

On the other hand, if you catch Bobby in that tree, and call up, "Hey there, Bobby! Whatcha doing?" he might look down and smile at you, "I'm seein' if I can get to the top." Then, you should shake your head and gently probe him, "Do you remember what Dad said?" If he had truly forgotten, he would climb down and apologize. But, if he had deliberately disobeyed, he might settle himself comfortably in the crook of a branch and, prepare to reason you out of going to alert Mom and let him stay. At which point, you would encourage him to get down, then proceed to tell Mom. Or, if he's younger, he might just stand on the branch and start jumping and chanting, "You ca-an't get meeeee!" In which case, you should promptly hold your arms out below him :)

Proper response makes a world of difference! Find opportunities today to encourage your siblings to love and good deeds. Who knows? You may just change the course of their lives simply by speaking sweetly and urging them to do the right thing.

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
Ephesians 4:29



We've Got Chickens!!!

L-R: Babs, Mac, Edwina and Ginger :)

I honestly never thought the glorious day would come...the day we finally got chickens!!! You may now refer to me as "Mrs. Tweedy"

Meet Ginger, Babs, Mac and Edwina. Sound familiar? It does, if you've ever had the pleasure of seeing the Aardman film "Chicken Run"!

Babs is actually posing! She has quickly established herself the leader of the flock.

 And they live in just the cutest little coop you've ever seen. See?!

 

 

It looks like a little gypsy wagon from afar :D

 

  

Here's a few closeup photos.

Here are their perches and the place the have decided to consolidate their...droppings...

Here's where we gather the eggses ;)

  I just thought y'all might like a little peek into our homesteading world. Pictures of the garden and a video about raw milk are coming soon. I haven't gone crazy, yet...have I...

Italian Hillbilly Wedding Themed Post...Seriously...

I am sure you must be completely shocked about that unfortunate-looking title. However, it was intentional and does carry meaning :)

At our church, different communities of people (friends) come together for worship and spiritual encouragement at each other's houses. We call these gatherings "Life Groups". Each family takes a turn hosting at their house and this week, it was our turn. Our Life Group likes to get creative and make themes for food (and clothing; if you're brave and can withstand advanced sarcasm ;) This week, my parents were throwing around ideas for a theme, and my dad texts my mom, "Italian Hillbilly Wedding Theme"! It was instantly adopted and thus, the title of my post is explained in a lengthy and probably unnecessary paragraph :)

I spent all morning preparing our main dishes. They were a big hit, so I have decided to share with the world! They are Rosemary-Olive-Oil-Sprouted-Spelt-Bread, Italian Wedding Soup (with heavenly meatballs) and Hillbilly Wedding Soup (also known as Chili) The Rosemary Bread, I had made the night before to save on time. Here they are...please enjoy!

Okay...this is really only a third of a loaf, but let's pretend that it's a whole loaf!

Sprouted Spelt Bread

(with Variations on the theme)

Spelt is a gluten-free wheat berry. No one in our family is allergic to gluten, but Spelt provides a lighter bread than whole wheat. The sprouted part means that the grains were soaked in water to "sprout" (they get little tail-like sprouts), then dehydrated. This process breaks down the different parts of the grain and makes it more digestible for our systems. We buy our sprouted grains from an Amish farm. But sprouting your own grains is relatively easy. I will post on that in a few days. 

 Ingredients:

9 Tbsp. Honey

  4 1/2 Tbsp. Lecithin (you can substitute 2 eggs)  

 3 3/4 c. Warm Water (not hot from the tap)

2 Tbsp. Yeast

9-12 c. Freshly-Milled Sprouted Spelt Flour 

(you can use Whole Wheat or Kamut if you want)

2 1/2 tsp. Salt

4 1/2 Tbsp. Wheat Gluten

 Optional:

4 Tbsp. Dried Rosemary

4 Tbsp. Cold-Pressed EVOO

Instructions:

1.) Preheat Oven 200 degrees Farenheit

2.) In mixer (like Kitchen-Aid or Bosch) combine honey, lecithin (or eggs), water, yeast and HALF the flour. Cover with towel for 15 minutes.

3.) Add the rest of the flour, salt, wheat gluten and, if applicable, rosemary and olive oil. You may need to add extra flour so the dough isn't sticky.

4.) Knead in mixer 5-7 minutes.

5.) On clean, floured surface separate the dough evenly into three or four loaves. Roll out each section into a rectangle, then roll them up into a log and tuck the ends under, slicing across the top. Place into floured pans.

 6.) Place in the 200 degree oven, covered with floured tea towel for 30-60 minutes to rise. 

7.) Remove from oven. Preheat 350 degrees F.

 8.) Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and delicious! Enjoy!

There isn't much left, but we're having it for dinner, so it shall be reimbursed with fresh meatballs and stock!

Apparently, the kids decided that the soup didn't need so may meatballs after all!

    Italian Wedding Soup

(my Variation of a FoodNetwork recipe) 

 My Mama found this recipe from Giada De Laurentiis on FoodNetwork for me to use. I altered it slightly (and doubled it) and it was one of the best soups I've ever had! Don't be alarmed by the fermented garlic. The stuff is so good, I eat it raw! It adds an extra punch of finger-licking flavor (not to mention how good it is for your body as a probiotic miracle). The Chicken Stock I used was also homemade. I suppose I shall also have to post on how to ferment your own garlic and make your own chicken stock, too :)

 Meatballs:

 1 small Onion, grated

1/3 c. Fresh Italian Parsley, chopped

  1 Large Egg

1 tsp. Fermented Garlic, minced 

1 tsp. Salt

1 slice of the AMAZING Rosemary Olive-Oil Bread you just made; crusts removed, crumbled into tiny pieces 

 1/2 c. Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated

8 oz. Ground Beef (we get ours grass-fed not grain-fed)

8 oz. Turkey Sausage, un-cased (or substitute pork)

Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Soup:

12 c. Chicken Broth/Stock (homemade, if you can)

1 Pound Fresh or Frozen Spinach, coarsely chopped

  2 Large Eggs

2 Tbsp. Freshly-Grated Parmesan or Romano Cheese (plus extra for garnish) 

 Instructions:

1.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees Farenheight.

2.) Mix up the first six ingredients with a fork in a metal or glass bowl (don't use plastic). 

3.)Add cheese, beef and sausage or pork. Form into 1-inch balls with 1/2 Tbsp. as scoop. Place on baking sheet covered with aluminum foil.  

4.)Bake for 30 minutes. Set aside.

 Soup:

1.) Bring the broth to a boil. Add the meatballs and spinach.  

2.) Whisk eggs and cheese together. While the broth is still boiling, start stirring the soup, then slowly drizzle the egg mixture in, stirring with a fork to create thin strands of egg, about 1 minute. Season with Salt and Pepper. Perfection!

What's left of the chili after last night plus lunch today!

 Hillbilly Wedding Soup

(also known as the Rosen's Famous Chili)

My parents came up with this recipe for one of my Dad's birthday parties about four years ago. It was an instant favorite! We make for a lot of people, so you might need to cut the recipe down a bit :) But remember! All spice amounts are approximate. You may adjust to your taste. This Chili is not spicy; it's sweet!

Ingredients:

1 Large Onion, chopped

2 or 3 Cloves of Garlic (regular garlic)   

4 lb. Ground Beef (grass-fed)

2 Large Cans of Tomato Juice

2 Large Cans Diced Tomatoes (not drained)

2 Cans Black Beans, drained (or Chili Hot Beans)

2 Cans Red Beans, drained (or Kidney Beans)

1-2 Tbsp. Chili Powder

1-2 tsp. Cumin

1/2 tsp. Cayenne Pepper

1 Tbsp. Cinnamon

1/3 c. Brown Sugar

Instructions:

1.) Start cooking the onions in a large skillet in a few Tablespoons of EVOO over medium heat. About halfway through, add minced or pressed garlic.

2.) When the onions are translucent, add the meat in, stirring and breaking it up continually.

3.) While the meat is browning, mix together in a large pot the remaining ingredients. Adjust amounts of spices until desirable.

4.) Once the meat is browned thoroughly, add it to the pot. Simmer until nice and hot!

 Please send me pictures of your own concoctions to missmckennaray@gmail.com . I would love to see what you come up with!